Neglect

Last year’s leaf fall

sits wet, dead, rotting

over paths and beds,

smothering spring growth

of primrose, crocus, anemone,

euphorbia, and bleeding hearts.

Once clear avenues are blocked 

with malodorous decay and mould,

fallen elder branches,

slippery stalks of

hesperis matronalis.

Nettle and bramble,

seedlings of ash,

bitter betony,

reclaim the land.