Elaine,
I like your reference to Churchill's statement about success ... in statements to others with various gardening dilemmas, I offer a pun which alludes to such things ... "gardening is often a matter of trowel and error". I have also heard from experienced horticulturalists that their definition of "expert" is one who has observed the death or failures to thrive of many plants, yet persists in seeking the causes of their demise. I have recently become aware of the writings and depth of observant thinking in Robin Wall Kimmerer's books "Braiding Sweetgrass" and "Gathering Moss". I am struck by her deep awareness, no doubt a result of her tribal ancestry of the Potowatami Tribes of the Great Lakes regions. I listen to her books on Audible and believe her messages are more clear and have such empathy through the fact she narrates those books herself. If you aren't aware of her or the books and talks she gives on "reciprocation with the Earth", I would highly recommend them to you.
Sincerely, Jack
