For Isle of Hope resident Lizann Roberts, the garden is more than a collection of plants — it’s a living reflection of her history, creativity, and connection to home. As 2025 marks her 30th year on the island, Lizann continues to find joy in the small, familiar rhythms of the neighborhood — friendly waves from neighbors, quiet morning walks to church, and the satisfaction of watching her garden evolve with the seasons.

Her love of gardening runs deep, inspired by her mother, an exceptional gardener on the family farm in southern Georgia. Lizann still tends plants from her mother’s original garden, including red pinecone ginger and cleome. “It’s not just about how they look,” she says. “It’s how they welcome family and friends to our home.”

Lizann enjoys being hands-on with her garden, though she calls in help for the heavy lifting. She frequents Herb Creek for high-quality plants but delights in exploring local garden centers for unexpected finds. A pergola, her husband Joe gave Lizann as a wedding gift 20 years ago, anchors the space and serves as a favorite gathering spot — especially on cool evenings when a fire is crackling nearby.

A towering fig tree provides both shade and sweetness. Each summer, ladders rest beneath its branches for friends and family to pick figs and share in the bounty.

Her advice to fellow gardeners is simple: “Stay with what works and be willing to adapt.” Lizann embraces the challenges of heat, humidity, and even deer with humor and persistence. For her, every garden — like every season of life — grows best with patience, purpose, and love.