Garden gnomes

 By Marilyn Salzl Brinkman

Gnomes, these little pointy-hatted, bearded little statues, are said to bring good luck and guard treasures. I need good luck in my little garden. My tomato plants aren’t doing well.

My cucumber plants are forming tiny little “pickles.” The carrots, other vegetables, and flowers are in a riot of growth. My tomatoes, however, need some magic.

One of the garden gnomes in Marilyn’s garden. Contributed photo

Gnomes are believed to be guardians of the natural world. They live in the earth and protect plants from evil spirits, negative energy, and pests. Garden gnomes have captured hearts and sparked conversations for generations, transforming ordinary outdoor spaces into whimsical wonderlands that delight the eye. You can be drawn to their charming folklore origins or simply love the personality they bring to your landscape.

I snuggled two colorful gnomes into my little garden yesterday. Their delightful poses on a mushroom just make you smile. I’m sure my tomato plants will inhale their magic.

I think my neighbor should have more than one or two gnomes in his garden. Little green worms are eating his cabbage plants. The leaves are full of holes. The cabbage head will never develop. Maybe my two little gnomes’ magic will reach over to them.

I learned about gnomes a few years ago after observing them, not only in gardens but in doorways, on stairs, yards, and even near a porta-potty.

Their most popular spot seems to be peeking from behind rocks, nestled in garden beds, or near tree roots, where it is believed they live. They don’t like to be placed in stark, open areas where they look isolated. People should just stumble upon them as they walk through a garden or yard. Mine are lovingly placed between white flowering bacopas.

Garden gnomes are prevalent in gardens and lawns throughout the Western world, among all social classes.

It seems gnomes have appeared in European folklore and mythology since the early 1800s. It was believed that they rewarded the good behavior of farmers, merchants, and housewives by helping them tend and protect their fields and gardens.

Last Christmas, I made a gnome wall-hanging. (I have indoor plants that need help, as well.)

Christianity does not have an official stance on gnomes. They believe they are imaginary fairytale creatures, like unicorns and fairy godmothers.

I, however, like the idea that these rough-looking, bushy-bearded, little critters keep a careful watch over my plants. I may get a nice tall one for my doorway to watch over me.