I went out of town last weekend and returned to a tragedy: Victoria, the zombie hyssop I acquired way back in week 2, finally succumbed to the ravages of mortality.

She was doing just fine earlier in the month, perkily sharing her age-defying tips with a batch of mint I strategically placed nearby. But apparently Victoria couldn’t handle my absence: I left a relatively vibrant green plant and returned to a desiccated leaf-dropping stem.

I’m wearing a black armband this week to commemorate the loss. Kristen, can we have another petexotic planting again soon!? -Stacy Cowley