When Carl Stander moved into his home at 702 S. Burg in Kimball one year ago, one of the first orders of business was to remove a large dying tree – one of a matching set.
In its place Stander planted a domed garden bed and part of the tree was used to make a natural wooden sign displaying his love of Nebraska football. Another large part of the original tree was made into a patio table that graces his front porch. He added a host of perennials, that will return next year larger and more vibrant.
Stander, with help from his daughter, Jamie, planted more perennials and ornamental grasses in the sweeping beds surrounding his home and softened the edges of his back yard with more of the same, all well-mulched to conserve water and discourage weeds.
This year guests are greeted by cheerful Cushion sunflowers and 5 O'clocks and Stander plans to add a variety of annuals to the mix next year.
"My late wife always wanted the best looking yard on the block," he said. "We moved into this neighborhood and every yard looks great."