Tom didn't have a green thumb. Any plants he had, he killed. Thanks to Fred, he was kept in fresh supply of herbs if he desired them. As a vicar, he led the sheep to the pastor, but he was thankful he wasn't in charge of keeping up the grass.
Barbara didn't fare much better with plants. She loved the simple things in life. Roses were a sweet gift from her boyfriend, but she didn't expect them. She only carried roses on her wedding day because of the memory of the picnic.
The only plant that Barbara took special care of was her grass engagement ring. Once she had a tin to store it in, it was placed there with care. She knew where the tin was at all times. It made the trip to Birmingham with her, and she would wear it for the rest of her life after Tom placed it on her finger after her death.