Cheap plastic

Yesterday one of my rain barrels burst out and 50 gallons of water flooded the garden. I learned my lesson never buy a rain barrel made from cheap plastic, it lasted less than a year. I purchased another one on-line last night, should be arriving this week. Today's gardening consisted of some weeding, tree trimming and moving potted plants around.

This is the courtyard by the front gate, I'm thinking a small bench would look good here

A neighbor stopped by today to trade plants. She wanted some of my bromeliads, and traded this plant, she didn't know the name but the red flowers are gorgeous, they kind of look like hydrangeas.

What is happening to my plants in the front yard? The powder puff tree is looking terrible, most of the leaves are cover with a black soot, and I'm not sure if I should cut most of it or leave it as is.

The soot is also covering the palm tree and dropping on the bromeliads below.

The vegetable raised beds are done, it took 28 bags of soil. Planting starts next week, weather permitting.

Meet Maximus

Max is my daughter's dog; both moved in with us while waiting on a short sale home she made a offer 4 months ago.