We also had a guy at $15. an hour but he just pretended to understand English. When I wanted the asparagus garden weeded (just tiny weeds!) I spotted the spade he took out! He was ready to dig up all the asparagus plants! We ditched him in favor of a local guy who was born and raised out here. He charges $35. an hour but he's good (very good) at trimming azaleas, minor tree work, moving roses, etc. but I get out of breath with his speed.
My grandsons are 9 and 2 - not useful for gardening but lots of fun.
Mulch is my best friend. I've used more in the last five years than all my previous gardening years.
