tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12353431727069352712024-03-13T13:03:13.212-07:00A Time to Gardenwith Sasha Wolfe, the Haphazard Gardenersashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-49222333887134979172019-09-09T12:35:00.002-07:002019-09-09T12:35:41.540-07:00Changes in the Garden<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The shady front yard gives way to the sun as the morning
progresses. Due to the cooler mornings now, I go outside later. I wait for the
temperature to warm a little and the dew to dry more on the grass. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The season is winding down. There’s less deadheading to do.
The lilies have one more blossom and the hibiscus not many more. The rose of
Sharon still has a few buds. The cosmoses have quite a few buds, too, but the
stalks are all turning black. I’ve already cut a lot back. The daisies are mostly
cut back except for the leaves.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I can’t help but see something to change during the early
daily walkabout to check the gardens. As the plants grew throughout the summer,
some now need to be divided. The foliage overtook pathways. Things shifted, and
now that the deadheading is almost over, my gardening time is spent in coming
up with new ideas.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Creating gardens on this property has been a challenge
because the land was built up with fill and rocks. Roots, mosses, and various
grasses have dug in making digging difficult. But I manage a little at a time,
sometimes getting help from friends and neighbors which I appreciate.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NdaBIHoDoRw/XXaoWFablQI/AAAAAAAABrY/Vvm-M2dKYV0IkGqbxAk2JSeflweG5-kawCLcBGAs/s1600/19-4480rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NdaBIHoDoRw/XXaoWFablQI/AAAAAAAABrY/Vvm-M2dKYV0IkGqbxAk2JSeflweG5-kawCLcBGAs/s320/19-4480rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The new plants are the tall ones at the top of the photo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The other day I was given some taller than me plants (she
thinks they’re helianthus) and because they seem to be a wildflower like
black-eyed Susan’s, I decided to put them in the garden near and parallel to
the road. I’m not sure they’ll blossom this year, but they should come back
next year.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A couple days later, after deadheading, I decided to set a
couple more stepping-stones more solidly in the ground along the front of the
house. (I’ve been setting them on top of the ground until I decide exactly
where to put them.) Now that plants are matured for the summer, the original
paths I’d started are crowded. I don’t like brushing against plants to get by.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Right now, I have to squeeze by the false indigo, and two
steps farther, in the middle of where I have this current path, is one of the
original azaleas that was here when I moved in. There are four, none of which
have done much in the four years I’ve been here, and they took a beating this
past winter which flattened them out – but then, Leo helped with that. I’ve caught
him sitting in the middle of the plants. (What’s with that? I’ve never seen a
cat do that before.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EKLFZlWfKec/XXao1aQGMCI/AAAAAAAABrg/gMcPLvjqhewGo3bBFRIKUtyYqXKgglojQCLcBGAs/s1600/19-4596rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EKLFZlWfKec/XXao1aQGMCI/AAAAAAAABrg/gMcPLvjqhewGo3bBFRIKUtyYqXKgglojQCLcBGAs/s320/19-4596rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plant on the left is the azalea I moved</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I decided to move this one to the new stump garden. This way
I could continue the path. I got the shovel and dug all around the plant. Thankfully,
the roots weren’t deep, and I was able to pry the shrub out of the ground (do
you still call it a shrub when it’s a tiny thing?)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Turns out it was wider than tall, and it wasn’t easy
carrying it to its new home. But then came the hardest part of the job –
digging a new hole twice as wide and deep as the roots. The ground of this new
garden, in front of old stumps, is full of roots and the soil is hard and
rocky. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I pounded and pounded with the shovel. It took a lot of
effort to break through that root and get the hole just barely big enough. Yeah,
it probably needed to be deeper and wider, but I’d done all I could. I squished
the roots in the hole and held the plant as upright as I could while I filled
in the hole. It’s now not as flattened as it was in its original place, and it actually
looks happier.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I took a break to research dividing or transplanting false
indigo. What I read said these plants do not do well if moved. I guess I should
be thankful I was able to transplant it from Bradford when I moved here. I love
this plant as it was one my mum and I chose together, and I don’t want to lose
it. What I can do is cut back some of the stalks that are too near the path.
This will leave the majority of the plant intact. It’ll all get cut close to
the ground before winter.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-25254784814679721632019-08-31T12:03:00.001-07:002019-08-31T12:03:18.658-07:00A Time to Garden – Hardy Hibiscus<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #252525; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">It’s the time of year when the hibiscuses are sporting their
huge blossoms of bright colors. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WX6zrBP4BRA/XWq7oUoYaNI/AAAAAAAABqA/y0--zlXO9RI8W89xsDH6QSU1949jXbx-ACLcBGAs/s1600/19-4259crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1082" data-original-width="1600" height="216" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WX6zrBP4BRA/XWq7oUoYaNI/AAAAAAAABqA/y0--zlXO9RI8W89xsDH6QSU1949jXbx-ACLcBGAs/s320/19-4259crs.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #252525; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Hibiscus, also known as rose mallow and rose of Sharon, is an
herbaceous annual or perennial, a deciduous shrub or small tree. It’s in the
plantae kingdom, order of malvales and genus hibiscus. The species hibiscus
moscheutos is a cold-hardy cultivar. Hibiscus is used in teas, dried edibles
and can be candied for desserts or garnishes.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #252525; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">My first experience with hibiscus was years ago when I bought a
beautiful potted plant at Home Depot. I was amazed by the size of the flower.
Unfortunately, that was also when I believed places sold only plants that would
grow in New Hampshire – unless they were annuals. Needless to say, my hibiscus
didn’t last long. I was then told hibiscus are tropical plants. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #252525; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">After I moved to Bradford from the Seacoast, I’d periodically
drive by a house in Hillsborough in late August. She had rows of tall hibiscus
growing along the driveway and garden along the road. I knew she couldn’t be
digging them up to bring inside for the winter. There were too many. How was
she getting hibiscus to survive?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QPQnlOR873E/XWrDzfgjtaI/AAAAAAAABqY/i0zrky17NEYnZrsRg5H6AqrU9V7NR_7YwCLcBGAs/s1600/18-7401rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QPQnlOR873E/XWrDzfgjtaI/AAAAAAAABqY/i0zrky17NEYnZrsRg5H6AqrU9V7NR_7YwCLcBGAs/s320/18-7401rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #252525; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">I got my answer after I’d moved to Hillsborough in 2015. The
following spring, I made a stop at Agway as I was creating more gardens. Agway
had hibiscus plants for sale! Melissa told me these were perennial hardy
hibiscus and would survive winters of zone 4 hardiness. I was excited and
throughout the next couple weeks, I bought four in different colors. (I loved
them so much I kept going back for more.)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #252525; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">I later learned that tropical hibiscus has single or double
blooms with green, glossy leaves. Hardy hibiscus has single blooms and
heart-shaped (what I call fingered) leaves of a duller green (the leaves on one
of mine are reddish). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #252525; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">What’s eye-catching about hibiscus is the size of the blossoms
and how tall they grow (up to 5 feet). Flowers can be 6 inches or more in
diameter (the bigger 10 to 12-inch blooms are called dinner plate hibiscus),
with colors ranging from yellow, peach, purple, shades of red and there’s now a
blue one called Bluebird Hardy Hibiscus. (Oh, I want one of these!) The flowers
attract butterflies and hummingbirds and bloom late July and August. The flowers
only last one or two days but more come.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Planting: </span><span style="color: #252525; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Make sure your purchase is a hardy variety. </span><span style="color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Choose
a full-sun location with well-drained, rich soil. </span><span style="color: #252525; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">They
also do well near ditches and swamps. Dig a hole only as deep as the root ball
and two to three times as wide. Mix the soil removed from the hole with a small
amount of compost if the soil is in poor condition. Good soil doesn’t need to
be amended. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #252525; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Carefully remove the plant from its pot and set it in the hole.
Fill the hole halfway with soil, then water well. Allow the water to settle which
eliminates air pockets. Fill the rest of the hole and water thoroughly. Add
mulch.</span><span style="color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cUzRURCB_ME/XWrELAhf-rI/AAAAAAAABqg/XPeGmCOtGWs0RNy9kC8Nrb4BTO1Ye1VHQCLcBGAs/s1600/18-7148crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1363" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cUzRURCB_ME/XWrELAhf-rI/AAAAAAAABqg/XPeGmCOtGWs0RNy9kC8Nrb4BTO1Ye1VHQCLcBGAs/s320/18-7148crs.JPG" width="272" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Care: </span><span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Frequent watering is required in the first two months after
planting. Never let the soil dry out completely. Once established, water deeply
when the top few inches of soil feels dry. Hibiscus requires a large amount of
water while blooming; constantly moist, not wet. Water daily in warm weather
soaking completely through the root zone. However, cut back on watering once
the weather cools; too much water can kill it. </span><span style="color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Stake long stems if
needed.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Organic fertilizer with plenty of phosphorus encourages blooms.
U</span><span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">se a high potassium fertilizer in the summer, a diluted liquid
fertilizer one a week, a slow release fertilizer once a month or add a high
potassium compost to the soil. (As I often find, research can be
contradictory as one site said to feed twice a month during the growing season
– discover what works best for your plants.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #252525; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Check plants periodically for pests: aphids, white flies,
mealybugs and Japanese beetles. Control pests with a horticultural oil or
insecticidal soap. (I’ve purchased a variety of repellents along with Dawn dish
detergent which I’ve heard also works, but I’m afraid to use anything that
might harm bees and butterflies.) Also watch out for rust fungus, which also
affects hollyhocks and other mallow plants.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Pruning: P</span><span style="color: #252525; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">rune as necessary to control plant size. Cut back errant
branches to just above a side shoot. </span><span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Cut the entire shrub up to
half its height after the first flush of blooms fade. This will encourage more
bud formation and maintain the size of the shrub. You can also just trim off
individual spent flowers to encourage further flowering. Keeping plants
deadheaded makes the gardens look tidy and prevents the seeds from sowing
unless seedlings are wanted. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yaEhrCjNPrM/XWrEXeOpV0I/AAAAAAAABqk/CFhFcHAXIVciqD3AC8Oi0hjJs4lHDrbsACLcBGAs/s1600/19-4230crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1393" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yaEhrCjNPrM/XWrEXeOpV0I/AAAAAAAABqk/CFhFcHAXIVciqD3AC8Oi0hjJs4lHDrbsACLcBGAs/s320/19-4230crs.JPG" width="278" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">If left alone, hardy hibiscus may self-sow and become weedy.
These seedlings will not necessarily be the same color as the parents. However,
they can be transplanted and moved throughout the garden.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Preparing for winter: Cut back dead stems to near ground level
in the fall after a frost. </span><span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">The stems usually die back to the
ground. Mulch over the root zone to provide protection and insulation for the
roots. The roots survive and the hibiscus quickly grows new stems in spring. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">For the new season: Winter-damaged and dead stems may attract
pests or disease so prune off any dead stems in late winter/early spring. </span><span style="color: #252525; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Hibiscus
is a slow growing plant often not showing signs of life until June, well after
other plants. </span><span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Pinch the shoots of young plants in early summer to encourage
branching and more flower stalks to form.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">Tip: They also do well in containers but do not transplant well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #1f1f1f; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt;">It sounds like a lot of care, but it isn’t bad at all and the
rewards are worth it. The hardy hibiscus are such bright spots of color when
other summer flowers are starting to fade. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-34366653068946424412019-08-27T11:37:00.000-07:002019-08-27T11:37:43.974-07:00Being Creative with Flower Gardens<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another week went by and I was still sore from my fall.
However, I was determined to get outside. I’m probably not giving myself enough
time to fully heal, but I just can’t sit still all the time. I have to get out
and do things … besides deadheading.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sometimes my stints outside aren’t much. I might move a couple
stones, set a paving stone for a step into the garden, or work a little at
creating more of a tier in the north side lily garden.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I get new ideas on how I can enhance the yard.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fN6_SxMMg2Q/XWV1h9tMujI/AAAAAAAABpA/Y3bvU0HxvmEeGY84vJF9BzJYRcDChu0sACLcBGAs/s1600/19-3821rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fN6_SxMMg2Q/XWV1h9tMujI/AAAAAAAABpA/Y3bvU0HxvmEeGY84vJF9BzJYRcDChu0sACLcBGAs/s320/19-3821rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enhanced garden</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One day I commented to my neighbor Andy how I wanted to
build a retaining wall where the echinacea and rudbeckia are on the lowest part
of the north side. I wasn’t sure how to fill the space between the two big
boulders where water, soil, and mulch run off into the gully. The few retaining
wall bricks I had didn’t quite fit the space.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A little while later he called me to come out. Oh, my God!
He made it look amazing, and he filled it in with smaller rocks like the
boulder garden out front. He even fixed up the two-lily garden by the walkway.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3X7BFk_8na4/XWV3O93oPxI/AAAAAAAABpU/ICNobdLw5nEnmZH5EHRw684bUisANZM9gCLcBGAs/s1600/19-3904rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3X7BFk_8na4/XWV3O93oPxI/AAAAAAAABpU/ICNobdLw5nEnmZH5EHRw684bUisANZM9gCLcBGAs/s320/19-3904rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The stump garden and wet area cleared.<br />This little bit of digging and laying in dirt was all my body allowed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On the last blog, I mentioned him using the string trimmer
to clear weeds and messy growth along the edge of my property. I decided to
make a new garden on the front side of the now clear stumps leaving the pretty
tall ferns. The back side turns into mini pond when we get heavy rains. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The area up to the stumps was mossy with roots which made it
hard to dig. Stabbing straight down with the shovel to break ground and roots aggravated
my sore ribs, but I pushed on to finish the area. I placed stones in a slight
crescent shape as a suggestion for the new border. I wanted to make a slightly
bigger area</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The question was how to build a retaining wall in the back
so this new garden can be leveled. (My intent is to level garden areas because
it’s hard for me to work on slopes.) I mentioned to Andy about maybe cutting
down the leftover stockade fence section to create a picket fence look in the
back. He thought that was a great idea. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0kxJZfeYI0M/XWV2fqbQsNI/AAAAAAAABpI/iEDl8OtjrR8nM3DpqUdk7FJClWZDe2XCgCLcBGAs/s1600/19-3933rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0kxJZfeYI0M/XWV2fqbQsNI/AAAAAAAABpI/iEDl8OtjrR8nM3DpqUdk7FJClWZDe2XCgCLcBGAs/s320/19-3933rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A quirky retaining wall with found items and more dirt to level.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He came back the next day after thinking it over. He didn’t
think the stockade fence pieces would be sturdy enough. While I was working
inside, he found leftover posts from the old deck and logs left behind when a
couple of trees were cut down. He laid the posts horizontally to create a wall
on one end, and at the other end, he stood the logs up vertically. He filled in
the garden with soil, then called me to come out.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wow, I was surprised! While the picket fence look would have
been nice, what I like about this is that it’s quirky, like me. (Someone later
said my gardens are whimsical.) What shows of the old wooden posts, I’ll paint
purple to further enhance the quirky-whimsicalness. (Next year I’ll plan
something for the top of the stumps … some kind of décor or potted plants.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m so impressed by this year’s progress in the gardens and
being able to pump water from the brook has kept everything green and lush. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-33709500446575916792019-08-15T10:35:00.001-07:002019-08-15T10:35:41.790-07:00Getting Help Creating Beauty<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ufK8ra1Qwu8/XVWW8nrjo2I/AAAAAAAABoQ/Dk-413SJ5p4xVoSeUD-SRm3fqzU-vcWSwCLcBGAs/s1600/19-3667rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ufK8ra1Qwu8/XVWW8nrjo2I/AAAAAAAABoQ/Dk-413SJ5p4xVoSeUD-SRm3fqzU-vcWSwCLcBGAs/s320/19-3667rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After taking a header on the deck last Friday, I’ve been
moving very gingerly. I’m surprised I could still walk. I’m bruised and achy down
my entire right side. For the next few days, I did minimal garden work.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But by Tuesday, I had to get outside, first deadheading the lilies,
then moving a couple of stones from the rock pile to the hibiscus border. I set
two bricks as steppingstones to access the crabapple for pruning. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On my next stint outdoors (I do a little work at a time), I
pulled sample paint cans from cupboards above the broom closet to play around
with new deck color. I added two different colors to the areas on the porch and
deck where I’d put the first color Wednesday. Oh, I’m having such a dilemma
choosing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rSN6uAZOWFI/XVWXU2r-86I/AAAAAAAABoY/S9zJ2BKwHLc5p9G7O9jdfGaq73J9F90-wCLcBGAs/s1600/19-3781rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rSN6uAZOWFI/XVWXU2r-86I/AAAAAAAABoY/S9zJ2BKwHLc5p9G7O9jdfGaq73J9F90-wCLcBGAs/s320/19-3781rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Andy and his new roomie, Justin, came over. Justin began
moving the rock pile and placing the small stones in the lower tier of the
boulder garden. I asked Andy to take out the Russian olive on the left side of
the driveway. It’s not a pretty shrub and it hides the beautiful ornamental
grass which I never get a chance to see. I also asked him to clean up the
growth around the stumps.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He went over and above. Next thing I knew, he not only had
taken down the growth with the string trimmer, he brought over his lawn mower and
cut all the little scrub brushy stuff even into the dried-up road water runoff pond
and along the edge of the property. Then he took the string trimmer and cleaned
off the big boulders. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kxX0srgMTyg/XVWXjFj31-I/AAAAAAAABoc/2S04EMjMRl4ZLFCHI_4jVokag8KBs1ukQCLcBGAs/s1600/19-3786rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kxX0srgMTyg/XVWXjFj31-I/AAAAAAAABoc/2S04EMjMRl4ZLFCHI_4jVokag8KBs1ukQCLcBGAs/s320/19-3786rs.JPG" width="320" /></a>Leo says the bigger one is a perfect look-out resting place.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Meanwhile, I decided to paint the letters on a garden sign
Don and Carol gave me years ago. The hanger hooks rusted and broke, but the
sign is still nice. However, it was just a dull greenish-gray. Last year I
spray painted the whole thing yellow intending to paint the letters, leaves,
and flowers other colors. I never got around to it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AkbUVb6tHa4/XVWXyfeMtgI/AAAAAAAABok/4Nzclp5fB0EjWuKodAvxpk0xHgEL2VAvACLcBGAs/s1600/19-3784rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AkbUVb6tHa4/XVWXyfeMtgI/AAAAAAAABok/4Nzclp5fB0EjWuKodAvxpk0xHgEL2VAvACLcBGAs/s320/19-3784rs.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My work bench was messy with tools, projects to work on, and
things to put away which I didn’t get to putting up this year. I cleared a
small area and started painting the letters of the sign with Benjamin Moore majestic
purple. It didn’t take long for my back and neck to start aching as I hunched
over the letters to see into the grooves and get lines straight. I didn’t give
up, though, and pushed through.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I swear it took me an hour to paint “A GARDEN sings songs of
Nature’s SPLENDOR” with a tiny art brush. (The capital letters are how they are
on the sign.) By then, my feet were screaming, too, especially as I was still
recovering from the fall a few days prior. Enough done for the day.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I love my gardens and yard. It IS all about: “Creating
Beauty for Myself, Creates Beauty for Others.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-5573788860084405242019-04-23T12:23:00.000-07:002019-04-23T12:23:01.955-07:00Awakening Spring Pumps New Energy into the Land and Me<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Awakening Spring Pumps New Energy into the Land and Me<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ednsRUSsebI/XL9mAdXzPJI/AAAAAAAABhI/iVbuFZW7HsQQBTVdNZKPESrtQkGmE-fzgCLcBGAs/s1600/19-1019crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1141" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ednsRUSsebI/XL9mAdXzPJI/AAAAAAAABhI/iVbuFZW7HsQQBTVdNZKPESrtQkGmE-fzgCLcBGAs/s320/19-1019crs.JPG" width="228" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My night was full of dreams, very busy dreams. I don’t
remember the dreams when I wake, just know they have nothing to do with me. It’s
like someone else’s dreams invade my sleep. There’s nothing helpful about them;
no messages to benefit me. They just sap my needed rest, and I don’t like it. Stay
out of my head!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What’s funny is I never used to dream – or I wasn’t aware I
dreamed. Just once in a great while, and I seldom remembered. Since moving
here, dreams invade my sleep all the time. The gist of the dreams do not stay
in my consciousness; I only wake knowing I was dreaming. It’s annoying.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Guess I need to set protections at night.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YDzDFNVO-Pc/XL9ll3z6XBI/AAAAAAAABhA/lft9jNmiGic_QMyDh92U-1I3iT8zsxCVACLcBGAs/s1600/19-1037crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1049" data-original-width="1402" height="239" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YDzDFNVO-Pc/XL9ll3z6XBI/AAAAAAAABhA/lft9jNmiGic_QMyDh92U-1I3iT8zsxCVACLcBGAs/s320/19-1037crs.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Light bounces off
the water in the rushing brook. The glare catches the corner of my eye and
distracts me. White water gushes off rocks and around the huge boulder. Even though the sky is gray, the air
seems to have a clarity to it. I’m not sure what that is or how to really
describe it. Maybe the rain washed the dirt off the windows? No, that’s not it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ah, it’s spring popping! The moss and lichen on the trees
have brightened, limbs are getting tiny leaves, and even the hemlock branches
seem perkier. The land itself gives off a vibrance of awakening. I want to get
out there!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The flower beds have so many plants pushing out of the soil.
Some crocus blooms are already passing while other buds have yet to open. So
many other plants are stretching taller while others are poking out of last
year’s detritus which I hadn’t trimmed back. (I’ve noticed other nearby towns
already have many plants blooming, but here, things are a little slower.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eNbIaVMX6Bc/XL9lxQlmduI/AAAAAAAABhE/ANtPA6CFfcgqTfhICtkh6qfJZwtQTKC4gCLcBGAs/s1600/19-1034crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1371" data-original-width="1600" height="274" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eNbIaVMX6Bc/XL9lxQlmduI/AAAAAAAABhE/ANtPA6CFfcgqTfhICtkh6qfJZwtQTKC4gCLcBGAs/s320/19-1034crs.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I overdid it raking the flower beds out yesterday, but it
needed to be done before the plants get any taller. Neighbor-kitty Leo waited
on the bench and when I was done raking, I sat with him a bit. He’s most
lovable when I sit outside with him. I relaxed and contemplated yard projects.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The winter damaged rhododendrons need to be cut back. The
lilacs and one of the rose bushes need to be moved, I want to find more rocks
and finish building a wall around the gardens, cut down some saplings that are
making a corner of the yard too busy … Oh, the ideas keep coming.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The gardening muse continues her battle with the painting
muse, and, at the moment, is winning. This is the most important time of the
year for me to get out – before the bugs swarm and it gets too hot. I find it
soooo exciting!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-2192358910156104542019-02-25T07:11:00.002-08:002019-02-25T07:11:59.685-08:00Christmas Cactus <br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">(First published in the InterTown Record in three parts in 2018)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As it is so often, research into a particular plant has my head
spinning. What I’d always assumed, is not necessarily true, and various
websites have slight differences in their explanations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i12sbr0EVlI/XHQFqu5VwzI/AAAAAAAABXM/5gtHGpvp3QoJ69aOg8MO5xtdvrVVa9J6wCLcBGAs/s1600/18-3148crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1547" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i12sbr0EVlI/XHQFqu5VwzI/AAAAAAAABXM/5gtHGpvp3QoJ69aOg8MO5xtdvrVVa9J6wCLcBGAs/s320/18-3148crs.JPG" width="309" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Schlumbergera bridgessii is the scientific name for</span><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Christmas cactus</span><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">. The cultivars are also known
as Thanksgiving cactus, crab cactus and holiday cactus. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Christmas cactus
is not really cactus but a succulent. Wikipedia says, “Nearly all cacti are
succulents, but not all succulents are cacti.” (Succulents are plants with
parts that are thick and fleshy which enable water retention in arid
conditions.)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">One
site said the Christmas cactus does not naturally exist in nature. It was bred
from two other plants grown in the rainforests of Brazil. It has segmented,
flat stems of a glossy green which can hang down about 36 inches. Flowers form
on the ends. The bright blossoms are unique in that they may have several tiers
of petals making the entire flower up to 3 inches long. Each one can last
for several days, and the entire blooming period spans several weeks. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Because
the plant comes from rainforests it prefers humidity and requires more water
than what one would assume of a cactus. Homes around here can be very dry. A
little extra care in the winter may require putting the cactus in a pebble
tray. Place pebbles in the tray and add a little water. Don’t cover the
pebbles. Set the cactus pot in the tray but not so the plant itself is sitting
in the water. The evaporating moisture will help provide humidity. (I bought a
couple of cheap, pretty trays at Family Dollar and with colorful stones and/or
river rocks added, it makes a cute setting). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Basic
care of a Christmas cactus is keeping it out of drafts, watering when it feels
dry, providing adequate light and occasional feeding. One thing of interest,
though, is that Christmas cactus requires a certain amount of darkness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br /><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
think my Christmas cactus liked me writing about it last week. (Doesn’t most
everything like a little attention?) The plant has sprouted more and looks
vibrant. Oh OK, perhaps it’s because I’m giving it more water now that I
understand it’s not a real cactus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Speaking
about watering, here are some tips. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Soak the soil until water runs through the pot’s drainage
holes. Give it a few minutes then discard any excess water in the drip pan. If
you use a pebble tray let the extra water in the tray evaporate to provide
humidity around the plant. Just make sure the plant isn’t sitting directly in
the water (which could cause brown spots, or root or stem rot). Pebble trays and the pebbles need periodic
cleaning. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
mild household plant fertilizer is beneficial, too, about every other week.
However stop feeding a month before the plant will bloom, usually late summer
and fall.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
learned two “thermo-” terms in this research regarding blooming and achieving
the best growth in plants. Thermo-periodic is the technical term used for the
amount of day light time the plant is exposed to in a 24-hour period. Thermoperiodism refers to the day and night temperature
fluctuation surrounding the plant.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Christmas
cactus likes indirect sunlight and does best in east or north-facing windows.
It can adapt to low light conditions but will bloom better in bright, indirect
light. Too much direct sunlight may burn the leaves. <span style="color: #242424;">Ideal
day temperatures should be around 70 degrees and evening temperatures 60-65
degrees. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
mentioned last week about the ability to choose when you want your cactus to
bloom. Of course most people want theirs to bloom around the fall/winter
holidays, although the plant can also bloom during the summer. If you want more
control, whatever date or holiday you choose, simply cut back watering and
hours of daylight six to eight weeks before you want it to bloom. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
will force the plant to go into its dormancy/rest period. (Whether you are
trying to change its regular bloom time or not, it still needs a period of
dormancy.) It will also need more darkness; 12-14 hours of total darkness, meaning
no indoor light or neighbors’ lights. (I have neighbors who leave their outside
lights on all night.) Some people cover the plants or put them in a closet.
Dormancy temperature is best at 50-60 degrees. It the temperature is over that,
the plant will need 15 hours of darkness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">New buds will eventually begin to appear and, at that time,
increase the water times – but not the amount. Buds will fall off with too much
water or if the pot is moved around. Blooming time is usually four to six weeks
in</span><span style="color: #242424; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> bright, indirect light. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">The flowers can last up to
nine days.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Once flowering time is over, the plant can be trimmed back for
uniformity. Pinch off enough sections to achieve the shape you want. Normal
watering and fertilization can begin when new growth appears.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To continue about Christmas cactus care: C</span><span style="color: #434343; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">hristmas
cactus prefers snug pots with its roots tightly confined in well-draining soil.
This snugness helps the root system produce better blooms. The plant will only
need to be repotted every two to three years. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #434343; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Repotting is usually best done in spring or early summer when
the plant is not blossoming. This allows the plant time to acclimate before
blooming again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #434343; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Pruning helps keep the plant healthy, keeps it shaped and
confines the growth to the available space in the home. Pruning also encourages
the plant to branch out and start growing again. Give it about a month to rest
after the blooming period is complete, though. To prune, gently twist the stem
between the segments on the stem and remove the section. Up to 1/3 of the
Christmas cactus can be removed each year without causing damage to the plant.
Sections trimmed off can be placed in a new pot to create more plants. Bury the
last segment in potting soil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #434343; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Fertilize with a houseplant fertilizer April through October.
The plant can be moved outside to a shady spot in the summer until temperatures
drop below 50 degrees.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #262626; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Two issues with these plants are stem rot and root rot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #434343; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Root rot can happen if the roots sit
in wet soil.</span><span style="color: #434343; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> The plant can be saved if the damaged root can be removed. However
if the rot has moved up the stem, stem rot,
a fungal problem, occurs. If this happens start a new plant before the
infection spreads too far. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: #434343; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">My Christmas cactus had two more blossoms during the third week
of February.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br /><br />sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-62332753520319999642018-06-16T04:07:00.000-07:002018-06-16T04:07:33.482-07:00Rhododendron<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-osRHwRSlhZU/WyTt8PAMegI/AAAAAAAABB0/pssxjEVHhLs6fUDz-d6lIPBgmRK__iTTQCLcBGAs/s1600/18-5239rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-osRHwRSlhZU/WyTt8PAMegI/AAAAAAAABB0/pssxjEVHhLs6fUDz-d6lIPBgmRK__iTTQCLcBGAs/s320/18-5239rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">There’s
been at least two or three rhododendron bushes in every place I’ve ever lived.
I used to think it was a shrub that once planted, you just let it go and grow.
When I moved to Bradford, I learned that with a little care, rhodies can be
even more beautiful.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
past week I had a couple sections of stockade fence installed and decided to
get new rhodies to go in front to pretty up the blank wall. (Later I will add
my flair of painting – purple, of course! – along with some other decorating.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Rhododendrons
(rhodies) are a familiar spring blooming shrub that usually stands out because,
not only the size of the plant itself, but for the large clusters of showy
flowers. Rhodies belong to the</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">genus of rhododendron and are the largest
genus in the Ericaceae family. There are over 1,000 different species in the
genus. The Ericaceae family also includes azaleas, heather, cranberries,
blueberries, mountain laurel and more. Rhododendron is from the Greek and means
rose tree.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All
azaleas are in the rhododendron family but not all rhodies are azaleas. It
depends on the subgenus and types of leaves.<span style="color: black;"> The
leaves for the smaller <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">azalea</span>
are usually pointed and narrow; the leaves of the <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">rhododendron</span> are generally large, leathery and paddle-shaped,
although that can depend on the particular species/subspecies.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Note: Rhododendron are toxic to humans and pets. Do not eat any
part of the plant! There is a lot of talk about the toxicity to bees and what
is called “mad honey.” The websites I checked had some pros and cons. From what
I can tell, the bottom line is rhodies attract bees, but as long as there are
many other flowering plants and trees in your yard, there is no worry.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Rhododendrons <span style="color: black;">can
be evergreen or deciduous. The blossoms are usually tubular, funnel or
bell-shaped, and often fragrant. Individual blossoms form in a ball-shaped
truss. The flowers come in colors of white, red, pink, yellow, blue, purple,
magenta, orange and various shades thereof.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The shrubs come in a variety of shapes and sizes and leaf shapes vary in
size, shape and texture.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: .5in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">R<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">hodies</span> prefer environments where it is neither too hot nor too
cold (Zones 5 to 8) and need a certain amount of chilling to develop strong
flower buds. Though most flower in the spring, there are also
summer-blooming varieties that add color and charm to any garden.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Planting<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Most large-leaved varieties require dappled shade; avoid deep
shade or full sun. They do not like full morning sun in winter. Choose a sunny
spot that receives a few hours of shade is perfect. Soil should be
well-drained, humus-rich, moist, and acidic (pH 4.5-6). Soggy and
waterlogged roots are the main causes of failure. The north side of a building
not under the eaves is best, protected from the wind. If you’re planting in a
more open area, make sure to choose a more tolerant species.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">If you can prepare the soil in the fall for planting in the
spring. (Of course, I never plan that far ahead, ha ha.) Amend the planting
area with compost, peat moss or a substitute. Oak leaves are good, too. If the
shrub has a root ball, soak before planting by placing it in a tub of water
until air bubbles disappear.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Plant the shrub in loamy fertile soil so the top roots are at soil
level or slightly below. If you plant them any deeper, the roots may rot.
If the plant was in a pot, plant it so the crown is the same level as it was in
the pot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Regular rhody care <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Rhodies have a shallow root system and need consistent moist soil
and at least two inches of mulch to keep them from drying out. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Tip: When the leaves curl and twist, water immediately. Do not
allow the stress of wilting. Shade loving annuals, such as the annual
impatiens, may be planted near the rhody and will also indicate when water is
needed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Fertilize in the fall with an acid loving material. Pine needles
make a good mulch. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">W<span style="color: black;">rap rhododendrons with burlap in the fall if winters
are severe. Winter burn results from frozen soil, freezing winds and cold
winter sun. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Pruning<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Snap off spent flower stalks by bending them over until they break
away from their stems. Remove dead flowers carefully because next year’s buds
are just under the old heads. Be careful not to damage growth buds at the
base of each flower stalk. Deadheading, where practical, promotes
vegetative growth rather than seed production. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Heavy
pruning will help rejuvenate a plant but may take a couple years before it will
bloom again. I personally experienced this. The first year I lived in Bradford
some of the rhodie leaves turned brown during the winter. My brother, who did
landscaping for years, said it was winter burn. He suggested early in the
spring pruning back the parts/branches that were damaged. It would not harm the
plant to cut it back to within a few inches from the soil. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
was hesitant but trusted him. I trimmed up some of the shrubs and cut the most
damaged one almost entirely to the ground. By mid-summer, there was signs of
new life and yes, it took a couple years to bloom again. As I had never seen
this one in bloom before, I was pleased to see a beautiful shade of cream (not
like the standard purple-pink color of the most the others). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Also,
one of the bushes in a closed-in corner between the sunroom and garage was so
well-protected that it grew huge; covering almost the entire corner width-wise
and up over the roof. Again, Don said to cut it right back, not to the ground,
just to give it better shape and allow more airflow through the shrubbery. Soon
it began showing new life. How exciting!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
week someone saw one of my Facebook photos of my newest rhododendron (rhodies).
He asked how to get rhododendrons to bloom. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Some
people are lucky enough to just have the right spot for their rhodies to
blossom well. For others, their rhodies may take a little care, especially with
the hybrid varieties. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Know
which type of rhodie you have. Some require more sun while others prefer shadier
areas (but not total shade). Realize too, as the trees around your yard grow and
change, that could change the amount of sunlight your garden gets.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
here are a few tips:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">If
the shrub is new, was it planted too deep? Rhodies have shallow roots. Only
plant the new shrub as deep as the root ball. Tip: A straight handled tool
placed across the ground of the newly planted shrub should lie level with the
area around it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">New
plants need to get established and may take a couple of years to bloom.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Adding
2-5 inches of mulch will help keep in moisture in the soil. Mulch or pine
needles permit needed air but mounding the plant roots and stem with soil may
prevent blooming.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
the spring, fertilize lightly when the buds swell. Cut back on fertilizing and
watering in late summer. Coffee grounds worked into compost or into the soil
will boost the acidity level required by rhodies.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">If
you prune off the spent blossoms, do so right after they fade. Next year’s buds
begin forming quickly and waiting too long to deadhead will remove next year’s
growth. Try to remove spent blooms before it goes to seed by holding the stem
and carefully snapping off the flower head without damaging the new buds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">fter
the blooming period, check the plant for health and cut away any parts that are
dead. A rhodie pruned back a lot, may take more than one season for it to
blossom again. In this case, be patient.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Some
rhodies bloom a lot, some may not bloom every year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-51885556525778237802017-08-02T09:59:00.003-07:002017-08-02T09:59:39.261-07:00Annual Geraniums<div class="p1">
Geranium, also known as cranesbill, can be annual, biennial and perennial. (I always believed they were all annuals until recently.) My mother was kind of funny when it came to geraniums. She didn’t particularly like them, but would buy a couple of plants (always the annuals) every year because it was her mother’s favorite. I never paid much attention because, to me, it was a plant to put on graves. I don’t know whether most people do that or if it was only because that’s what my mother did.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8B9QFMoFoLs/WYICgEvuIDI/AAAAAAAAAvM/QdL4xPuM_g02Hwrefxjx627uNmVXuwr-ACLcBGAs/s1600/17-6914crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1283" data-original-width="1600" height="256" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8B9QFMoFoLs/WYICgEvuIDI/AAAAAAAAAvM/QdL4xPuM_g02Hwrefxjx627uNmVXuwr-ACLcBGAs/s1600/17-6914crs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Martha Washington Regal Geranium <br />"Elegance Purple Majesty" purchased 07/17</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
A geranium was the last plant my mother ever bought me. I remember the day she brought it home. A friend had taken her out for the day as she didn’t drive or go out on her own any more. She was so proud to bring me home a gift, a beautiful Martha Washington geranium. I was as excited to receive it as she was to give. She so wanted to please me – and she did. I planted it in the little garden near the garage.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
A friend told me I could dig it up and bring it inside for the winter. I did and it survived, so for the next couple of years, I’d plant it outside in the spring and in the fall, dig it up and put it in a pot to winter inside. It lasted a few years but somehow went missing when I moved from Bradford.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7qPmhC-BEs/WYIBrjOtRxI/AAAAAAAAAvI/4Vw6QWEx4fw2tB08I8y6GHAUlNjkC30egCLcBGAs/s1600/17-6905crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1383" data-original-width="1600" height="276" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7qPmhC-BEs/WYIBrjOtRxI/AAAAAAAAAvI/4Vw6QWEx4fw2tB08I8y6GHAUlNjkC30egCLcBGAs/s320/17-6905crs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Sarista Sunstar Red purchased in 2016 and wintered inside</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Geranium facts: There are 422 species in the geranium <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genus">genus</a>. The leaves are palmate and broadly circular in form. The flowers have five petals and a few clumps will grow tight on a single stem. The colors range from white, pink, purple, blues and shades of red. Some will be a single color while others may have veining or be two-colored.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Geraniums are nice because they will grow almost anywhere and, unlike other flowering plants, they don’t have a dormant period. They look great wherever they are planted whether in pots, in garden beds or hanging baskets. They prefer six to eight hours of sunlight, though. I had a friend who kept her geranium inside and it eventually got so big that the pot couldn’t be moved.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Care is easy – deadhead regularly and water deeply when the soil feels dry. (I sometimes wait until the leaves droop.) However, they don’t like to be water logged. A water-soluble houseplant fertilizer or 5-10-5 fertilizer can be added once a month during the active growing season. A potted geranium will wilt when it needs re-potting.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Now for the fun part, and something with which I am not familiar – propagating. I’ve always had trouble cutting plants back or dividing them when they get big. I was afraid of hurting them even though I know they do better with attention. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plant_propagation">Propagation</a> of geraniums is easy. You can take cuttings in summer, gather seeds or divide a larger plant in autumn or spring.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I bought three geranium plants last year to honor my mother. I planted them in flower boxes in the yard and dug them up and brought them inside for the winter. Two of last year’s plants were in an oblong flower box in the living room window. They grew taller and taller. I didn’t want to cut them back because there was always a bud. The orange bi-color reached 40 inches tall and the pinto red, 36 inches. Both were in bloom and the weight of the blossoms finally caused both stalks to bend.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Geranium cuttings root well without the need of any additives. I cut off the flowers and then cut the stems near a node (place above a leaf or a swollen part of the stem). Cutting here also encourages new growth on the mother plant. I pulled off the bottom-most leaves and just stuck the stems in the soil and gave them a generous amount of water. I watered often in the next few days whenever the leaves started to wilt.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UOL9yoDsOtE/WYIBEP84VyI/AAAAAAAAAvE/NsACl7y-ctEIbCJORysdd3r-49oKQ9pcQCLcBGAs/s1600/17-7061crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UOL9yoDsOtE/WYIBEP84VyI/AAAAAAAAAvE/NsACl7y-ctEIbCJORysdd3r-49oKQ9pcQCLcBGAs/s320/17-7061crs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blossom from a cutting -- it grew!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
I researched more on geraniums. Some websites said to dip the root end into a rooting hormone such as Miracle Gro FastRoot while others say it’s not necessary. The sites also say propagating is a great way to keep the geraniums as they often only live about a couple of years.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Weeks went by. The leaves stayed green and the plants grew. I was amazed. Three weeks later, one blossomed. The dilemma now is going to be what to do with too many geraniums. I hate the thought of just throwing excess away. Free geranium cuttings, I guess.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 15.0px}
p.p3 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 10.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 12.0px}
</style>
<br />
<div class="p3">
<br /></div>
sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-87582335875603347892017-07-09T13:09:00.001-07:002017-07-09T13:09:47.294-07:00Haphazard Gardening<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">I’ve been meaning to write, but as usual, I’ve been incredibly busy. How is it possible to get busier? And now that I’m writing, I have a lot to say. I thought I went overboard last year when I got into gardening. I thought that a smaller property would be easier to design and maintain. Perhaps that would be true for a professional landscaper. However, I’m not a professional and I do things my way.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rl0XFrAleBY/WWKLSm0eDDI/AAAAAAAAAss/DupVlp8nA-0aLBA_-GoTtnnkbECIawESwCLcBGAs/s1600/17-5689crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1191" data-original-width="1600" height="238" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rl0XFrAleBY/WWKLSm0eDDI/AAAAAAAAAss/DupVlp8nA-0aLBA_-GoTtnnkbECIawESwCLcBGAs/s320/17-5689crs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These daisies attract bees.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">Yes, I overspent on flowers last year. A smaller yard doesn’t necessarily mean small gardens. I created new gardens besides those already here, and this year I’ve gone even further (in money, the size of gardens, and the amount of new plants). Still, it’s not exactly where I want it to be … nor do I know exactly where I want it to go.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">So, where am I going wrong? No, it’s not that I’m going wrong (well, maybe that depends on who you talk to, ha ha), it’s that I’m jumping in without a prepared plan. Wow, I haven’t actually admitted that before. That’s exactly what I do, though. I stop at the nursery, fall in love with too many plants, and purchase more than I can handle at one time. I get them home and I ask myself, “Now what do I do?” <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xf223MvjpYM/WWKLnGWNfKI/AAAAAAAAAsw/JYMG9GCKvswR-MPgloQG8TWoVFozRnR3gCLcBGAs/s1600/17-5778crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1138" data-original-width="1600" height="227" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xf223MvjpYM/WWKLnGWNfKI/AAAAAAAAAsw/JYMG9GCKvswR-MPgloQG8TWoVFozRnR3gCLcBGAs/s320/17-5778crs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I created a lily bed just for hybrid day lilies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">But, flowers make me happy. I love the colors, shapes, textures, patterns. The way one plant might grow different from another is fascinating. Why does this plant not do as well and one right beside looks great? I can’t help myself. Maybe I’m making up for all those years I wasn’t interested in gardening.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">It’s not easy. I face challenges every day when out in the yard. It takes three to four days to get the new purchases planted. Sometimes where I thought I’d put a plant isn’t where it ends up. Sometimes where I put it means I have to extend the garden which means more edging and when there are a lot of roots the digging is extremely difficult. Then there are times when a new plant doesn’t like where I put it and I’ll have to find a new spot.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gTPEkC2xtSs/WWKL_48yZrI/AAAAAAAAAs0/TloIuVKhH5I5XFCcCphPX9OPPfskoU4bwCEwYBhgL/s1600/17-5407crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1441" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gTPEkC2xtSs/WWKL_48yZrI/AAAAAAAAAs0/TloIuVKhH5I5XFCcCphPX9OPPfskoU4bwCEwYBhgL/s320/17-5407crs.JPG" width="307" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hens and Chicks - Red Beauty</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">There are lists to make so I can add new pages to the garden reference manual I’m putting together of plants in my yard. I look up three or four websites to gather information on each plant and then work the information into one cohesive piece for the manual. I photograph the plants and if the plant isn’t flowering yet, I add a photo later.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">The soil here is mostly sand, so that creates yet another issue. I want to keep it simple. I don’t want to deal with PH testing and amending the soil, although I do add potting soil. Then there are sun issues. The main part of the yard gets a lot of afternoon sun and even sun-loving plants are not happy with too much heat in the afternoon. (I’ve learned that if a plant tag says, “Sun/part shade,” I’m better off leaning towards part shade.)</span><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">Last weekend I went on a garden tour in New London and Elkins and saw some amazing gardens. Then today, there was a posting on Facebook of 23 amazing gardens. Absolutely stunning, with professionally designed and manicured plants. At first, I thought, “How could I do this?” I realized these gardens are beautiful, but not me. I’m not perfectly manicured. I don’t follow the norm. I make my own way … even when it comes to gardening.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MqJg9qJU_MU/WWKMz87nkOI/AAAAAAAAAs4/vd_fc03ZL6s_LK9FKVfLFyVU2HFLvCRcACEwYBhgL/s1600/17-5043crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="972" data-original-width="1600" height="194" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MqJg9qJU_MU/WWKMz87nkOI/AAAAAAAAAs4/vd_fc03ZL6s_LK9FKVfLFyVU2HFLvCRcACEwYBhgL/s320/17-5043crs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Other colorful elements bring other aspect to a garden. This<br />is a work in process re-purposing plant trays.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">The light bulb lit up as it dawned on me that I’m a haphazard gardener. Sasha Wolfe, the haphazard gardener. That’s me. It’s how I work and create. I am spontaneous. I do things against the grain. I buy plants not knowing where to put them, then build a garden around them. I put some like colors together and others are mixed.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">I’m learning all the time and I love to hear what others say. One of the ladies I met on the garden tour said her garden has been a 30-plus year love-affair and she changes it all the time. My gardens are coming along, but now that the heat of summer has arrived (and bugs), I’m less prone to want to be outside. I’m usually outside around 7 a.m. which has totally upset my normal morning routine (one thing I’ve always been in a rut about), but that’s another issue.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 15.0px}
</style>
<br />
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-72361809779444100532017-06-06T07:31:00.003-07:002017-06-06T07:31:41.154-07:00Daisies - Osteospermum and Gerbera <div class="p1">
It’s funny how I can sometimes be blind even when things are right in front of me. I discovered bright-colored daisies when I moved to Bradford in 2006 and I’ve bought some each spring since. I believed these annuals, even though some had larger flowers, were all gerbera daisies, that some were just a smaller version. However, I was recently told when making purchases for this year’s flower boxes that the small-flowered ones I chose were not gerbera. </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--z1UCXdj2d8/WTa7twbiAWI/AAAAAAAAArc/TiTFDpR_mm87crqV9MJb1Eg4KV-1yRUhwCLcB/s1600/17-4535crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1298" data-original-width="1600" height="259" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--z1UCXdj2d8/WTa7twbiAWI/AAAAAAAAArc/TiTFDpR_mm87crqV9MJb1Eg4KV-1yRUhwCLcB/s320/17-4535crs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If you look closely at the tips of the petals, Gerbera daisies<br />have "two lips."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
Gerbera have much bigger blossoms. The little tags on the pots of the smaller flowers said osteospermum. Duh, how could I have not realized they were not the same with the two types of plants right in front of me! I guess in this case, a rose isn’t a rose – or colored daisies aren’t all gerbera. (Am I showing my ignorance of the plant kingdom?) </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p3">
<span class="s1">I got the plants home and began research. </span>I compared the Wikipedia websites (among others) for both varieties. Osteospermum and gerbera are both known as African daisies. Osteospermum also goes by cape daisy, blue-eyed daisy or daisybush, and gerbera, Transvaal daisy or Barberton daisy. Both are of the plantae kingdom, both in the order of asterales and family of Asteraceae. However, the subfamilies, tribe and genus are different. </div>
<div class="p4">
<br /></div>
<div class="p3">
Osteospermum are in the subfamily of Asteroideae, one of the smaller tribes of calenduleae and genus of osterpermum (perennials) and dimorphotheca (annuals). They are annuals in this area (zone 3). Gerbera, also annuals around here, are in the subfamily of mutisioideae, the tribe of mutisieae, and the genus of gerbera. This is all Greek to me, oops, I mean, Latin. And this isn’t even getting into cultivars.</div>
<div class="p4">
<br /></div>
<div class="p3">
But enough of the technical jargon. Let me talk about the physical aspects of these plants. </div>
<div class="p4">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rMWTpMkvMX4/WTa79LziM_I/AAAAAAAAArg/xhtiYrXbxKI5B7QMLCeXbJ4TjGtJOVZzACLcB/s1600/17-4257crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1513" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rMWTpMkvMX4/WTa79LziM_I/AAAAAAAAArg/xhtiYrXbxKI5B7QMLCeXbJ4TjGtJOVZzACLcB/s320/17-4257crs.JPG" width="302" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Osterspermum 4D Violet Ice</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p5">
Osteospermum (cultivars around here) grow 15 to 24 inches tall and can reach 1-2 feet in width. <span class="s2">Osteospermum</span> prefer cool weather and will bloom often until the summer gets hot. (In 2016, I had them in containers and when they started to wilt and not bloom as much, I moved the containers to a less sunny spot and they did much better.) <span class="s2">Cultivars flower well when watered and fertilized consistently. They don’t need deadheading because they don’t set seed easily. However, the plants look nicer when the spent flowers are removed. </span></div>
<div class="p4">
<br /></div>
<div class="p3">
A Gerbera daisy plant prefers sun and can grow 18 inches tall and 18 inches wide. A single flower grows on top of one stem rising up from a mound of slightly fuzzy leaves. Multiple rows of two-lipped petals tightly surround the head. The blossoms can be 2 to 5 inches in diameter. Wikipedia said it’s the fifth-most cut flower in the world after rose, carnation, chrysanthemum and tulip. </div>
<div class="p4">
<br /></div>
<div class="p5">
<span class="s2">What’s interesting is that both plants’ centers or capitulum are composed of hundreds of individual flowers. </span>They both attract butterflies and are deer and rabbit resistant. These are some of my favorite flowers and I’m happy to now have better understanding of the differences. </div>
<div class="p4">
<br /></div>
<div class="p4">
<br /></div>
<div class="p4">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p4">
<br /></div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 15.0px}
p.p3 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; color: #323333}
p.p4 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; color: #323333; min-height: 15.0px}
p.p5 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; color: #402e17}
p.p6 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 8.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 12.0px}
span.s1 {color: #000000}
span.s2 {color: #323333}
</style>
<br />
<div class="p6">
<br /></div>
sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-22494214194233035382017-05-01T08:57:00.001-07:002017-05-01T09:01:28.319-07:00Daffodils, a symbol of friendship<div class="p1">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1SjtvxHkDrg/WQdbbEQ44lI/AAAAAAAAAow/eu7YBJBEQzIAltqIBu3UOEKFiPz-2U8oACLcB/s1600/17-1662crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1SjtvxHkDrg/WQdbbEQ44lI/AAAAAAAAAow/eu7YBJBEQzIAltqIBu3UOEKFiPz-2U8oACLcB/s320/17-1662crs.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I’ve always loved daffodils. Maybe because yellow is one of my favorite colors. Maybe it’s because that gorgeous brightness after the dreariness of late winter/early spring convinces me spring has finally arrived. Whatever the reason, daffodils are stunning! </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Daffodils and narcissus are the same family, amaryllicaceae. I’m still trying to wrap my head around that. I always thought of daffodils as the bigger, yellow, trumpet-shaped flower and that narcissus was the flatter-looking white-petaled flower with the yellow trumpet (that’s what my mother had said). They are all narcissus and I found out that those flatter-looking narcissus are paperwhites. Jonquil is another popular type with the difference being smaller, clustered blossoms with the leaves are more cylindrical. </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uuE3SBx25X4/WQdbj32WAjI/AAAAAAAAAo0/PdMygixC0IkvifJoPlDkf4RDRQkLtqsCwCLcB/s1600/17-1660crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uuE3SBx25X4/WQdbj32WAjI/AAAAAAAAAo0/PdMygixC0IkvifJoPlDkf4RDRQkLtqsCwCLcB/s320/17-1660crs.JPG" width="320" /></a>Interesting facts:<br />
<span style="text-align: center;">The bulb has contractile roots and pulls itself deeper into the ground after blooming. The plants are dormant throughout the summer to late winter. Next year’s flower stem and leaves form in the bulb to be ready for sprouting in the spring.</span><span class="s1" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span></span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-align: center;">All parts of the daffodil contain lycorine, a toxic chemical. The bulbs have been mistaken for onions. However, they do not have the onion odor nor do they cause tearing. Eating any part of the plant can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea. </span></div>
<div class="p4">
<br /></div>
<div class="p3">
The front garden here last spring had narcissus. They bloomed before I caught the gardening bug so I didn’t research them at the time and I’m not sure exactly what type they are. Currently there are sprouts, but I’ll have to wait until they blossom before making the identification</div>
<div class="p4">
<br /></div>
<div class="p3">
I purchased a pot of bulbs the end of February which have already bloomed. Normal planting time for spring-flowering bulbs is in the fall, but I planted these last week. The hardest part was deciding where to plant. I was thinking about putting them under the little crabapple tree because they will bloom (next spring) by the time the leaves come out on the tree. Then I read that it’s good to plant bulbs with others to create a square or circle, so I put them in front of a mushroom garden sculpture. </div>
<div class="p4">
<br /></div>
<div class="p3">
One more chapter in beautifying my yard.</div>
<div class="p4">
<br /></div>
<div class="p4">
<br /></div>
<div class="p5">
<br /></div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 15.0px}
p.p3 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; color: #303436}
p.p4 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; color: #303436; min-height: 15.0px}
p.p5 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 14.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 16.0px}
p.p6 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 8.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 12.0px}
li.li1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'}
li.li3 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; color: #303436}
span.s1 {font: 12.0px Symbol}
span.Apple-tab-span {white-space:pre}
ul.ul1 {list-style-type: disc}
</style>
<br />
<div class="p6">
<br /></div>
sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-24682156592199232732017-04-24T10:15:00.002-07:002017-04-24T10:17:21.211-07:00Cleaning Up and Expanding<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Small stints of gardening continue as I spend about 20-30 minutes outside in two or three intervals during the day. I’m making an art of working in short timespans. I work until my body gets achy and says it’s had enough, then go inside and work on another project.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--JbiYXa5kOU/WP4wUlEB7QI/AAAAAAAAAnI/6yIq2NGhM3QAl1MvA5q_v_kRw42Nyo9iQCLcB/s1600/17-3198crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--JbiYXa5kOU/WP4wUlEB7QI/AAAAAAAAAnI/6yIq2NGhM3QAl1MvA5q_v_kRw42Nyo9iQCLcB/s320/17-3198crs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can still see remnants of the gray driveway stone<br />
that got plowed into the driveway this winter.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I began edging the main lily garden last Friday and it continued through the weekend. This section is on the north side of the driveway and is lower than the house. The ground here is harder. I want a better definition to the garden and perhaps create a shape. It’s not working out as I would like and it looks messy … but it will eventually come together.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xSXYgWzaFxY/WP4wvlKIbEI/AAAAAAAAAnM/bCzuii87tGM1TeTwn15ulxBwXBw44y2HQCLcB/s1600/17-3199rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xSXYgWzaFxY/WP4wvlKIbEI/AAAAAAAAAnM/bCzuii87tGM1TeTwn15ulxBwXBw44y2HQCLcB/s320/17-3199rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the tiered lily section near the garage on the north side.<br />
The green is the hyacinths.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I also started an area begun last summer -- better clearing of what I’m calling the coneflower bed. (I eventually want to come up with nicer individual names for all my little gardens.) The Echinacea plants were discovered last summer in front of a few big rocks that were placed when building up the land to put the house back in 2003. The slope changed a bit with the addition of the garage last summer and later in season, another lily garden was planted in two tiers on the side of the walkway going down towards the edge of the property. I had also extended the coneflower bed to the east in front of a couple more rocks and planted rudbeckia. Now it’s time to pretty it up more.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kgvoC-W4Jmw/WP4xOaP83PI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/vfenxe3ZjmcIH8b86gIb7nYiJ20qfUTvQCLcB/s1600/17-3200crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kgvoC-W4Jmw/WP4xOaP83PI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/vfenxe3ZjmcIH8b86gIb7nYiJ20qfUTvQCLcB/s320/17-3200crs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This oldest section in front of the rocks, the coneflower bed,<br />
has now become the lower tier. I'm still trying to remove grass.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
Now, there is still an older section of ground between the lilies and the coneflowers, and it’s this section I’m trying to clean up and the grass clumps here are horribly tough. It’s not even nice grass! I worked it a little last summer when I discovered the Echinacea, but gave up. I removed a lot of the briars (blackberries). There is also one tulip leaf and a couple inches away, a daffodil (neither bloomed last spring nor this). </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I love rocks and it is my intention to have the flowers and rocks accentuate each other. At this point, I’m wondering if I’m going to have to ask for help. Today I’ll take another go at it.</div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 15.0px}
</style>
<br />
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H4LEuW_onFQ/WP4xzFTBB5I/AAAAAAAAAnY/AL_0sZKDRlkSlUhmmJKJGXMbn7apszkZACLcB/s1600/17-3201rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H4LEuW_onFQ/WP4xzFTBB5I/AAAAAAAAAnY/AL_0sZKDRlkSlUhmmJKJGXMbn7apszkZACLcB/s320/17-3201rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This last photo is looking down from the top tier <br />
(the walkway along side of the garage). </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
This last photo is looking down from the top tier (the walkway along side of the garage). </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
It's all guesswork as to the design. I'm just trying to make everything look better.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
With another year of water issues (between the drought and the old dilapidated water system in the district), I'm not sure how far I can take this. All I know is that flowers make me happy and are one way to pretty my yard and home.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
Hopefully the rain barrels will help again. This year I may attempt pumping water from the brook as long as it doesn't dry up.</div>
sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-66852422186876053582017-04-22T05:11:00.000-07:002017-04-22T05:11:23.458-07:00Gardening April 12 through 21<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="p1">
What a busy week this has been. I’ve gone out every day to do yard work. The most exciting thing is seeing what plants are coming up and sometimes, there are changes between morning and afternoon. It’s amazing what warm sun will do to spring plants. They almost grow before my eyes.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I finished raking out all the flower beds and as much of the road dirt off the lawn as I could get. I still have a raked pile of driveway stone on the other side of the lily bed that I need to get back to the driveway. Plowing took its toll this year, but the snow had to go somewhere.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
All the lilies I planted last year are putting in an appearance in various levels of growth. They don’t all bloom at the same time, so it will be interesting to see what happens. Most everything else is also looking fine, although some later blooming perennials have yet to show.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8XYje3AUBPI/WPtBD9dZNPI/AAAAAAAAAlY/GKmk9Rlc3eYjbMUiMvoIAQMj05z7CzMCACLcB/s1600/17-3143rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8XYje3AUBPI/WPtBD9dZNPI/AAAAAAAAAlY/GKmk9Rlc3eYjbMUiMvoIAQMj05z7CzMCACLcB/s320/17-3143rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The right side of the house facing west.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
Four white crocuses bloomed on the front right side of the house. There are leaves on the other side of the porch, but no signs of blossoms yet. The bleeding heart has poked a couple of red nubs out of the ground and some iris are also showing. I’m surprised that the day lilies that line the length of the front edge of the slab are also growing under the porch. The rose bush stems are turning green.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NXG5VcAEnr8/WPtBsS3_RcI/AAAAAAAAAlg/vNu4zwfqY3U3CKxocapzwko78aswU2ieQCLcB/s1600/17-3074crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="153" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NXG5VcAEnr8/WPtBsS3_RcI/AAAAAAAAAlg/vNu4zwfqY3U3CKxocapzwko78aswU2ieQCLcB/s200/17-3074crs.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three of the four crocuses<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FMnAbUcezko/WPtCHvAX6SI/AAAAAAAAAlk/n9k5Zs9-VtoykOjQyWlbisT93MSi8py9ACEw/s1600/17-3142rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FMnAbUcezko/WPtCHvAX6SI/AAAAAAAAAlk/n9k5Zs9-VtoykOjQyWlbisT93MSi8py9ACEw/s320/17-3142rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The left front side with the new walkway and two of the rain<br />barrels in front of the garage.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
The left side of the front garden was extended into a curve when the new walkway was installed last fall. There’s a clump of green leaves near the edge of the walkway and I’m not sure what that is. Guess I’ll have to wait for it to grow bigger. Something is telling me it’s a week, but I’ll wait to make sure. </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
There are some things here that are growing, but the coreopsis is the looking the best so far. The viola I transplanted in the fall from the flower boxes out back to the front garden near the driveway looked great and even had a couple of blossoms while there was still some snow, but the few days of hot sun seems to have burnt them up. I’ll wait to see if they recover.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gUoLj5buf48/WPtC1dwLgcI/AAAAAAAAAls/piIyk8o3xoUz0Ikb-o_Ch4eaemOaSAKCACLcB/s1600/17-3145rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gUoLj5buf48/WPtC1dwLgcI/AAAAAAAAAls/piIyk8o3xoUz0Ikb-o_Ch4eaemOaSAKCACLcB/s320/17-3145rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The middle garden -- I want to come up with better names<br />for each of the gardens. I want to extend this one.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
The big middle garden, made just last year, has lots of life in it. The cornflower looks the best with its gray-green leaves looking bushy. The lavender, which I brought from Bradford, looks like it’s struggling a little, but that may be because it’s early. All the columbines are coming up, as is the clematis. The hibiscus isn’t showing anything. They are a late summer plant, so I’m not worried. </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
It is in this garden that I planted the daffodils and tulips. I planted them closer to some middle rocks near the crabapple with the idea that they will be first up in the spring, then, because you need to leave the leaves after the flowers die, other later blooming plants will hide the early ones when they are not so pretty. I admit I have difficulty deciding exactly where to plant and how to make a design. I usually end up picking a spot and putting the plant in the ground. Maybe in time I’ll figure out how to actually arrange plants.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xkVkkZxBLM8/WPtDreMp1pI/AAAAAAAAAl0/lsOcxvP6ug47Sd4eBb9AUxEHqTnBHNckgCLcB/s1600/17-3146rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xkVkkZxBLM8/WPtDreMp1pI/AAAAAAAAAl0/lsOcxvP6ug47Sd4eBb9AUxEHqTnBHNckgCLcB/s320/17-3146rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The hybrid daylily garden. I'm happy to say all I planted last<br />year are coming up. Next step is to put an edge around here.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
The hybrid daylily garden on the other side of the driveway shows every plant I put in the ground last year survived. I’m very excited about that. Late last season I planted perennials that had been in flower boxes on the deck along the retaining wall and below it towards the back of the house, down over the embankment. Unfortunately, I’m not sure what survived or will survive due to the installation of the generator. There’s some green showing on the level of the gennie, but I’m beginning to think most of those plants got trampled and disturbed too much with the equipment and gas lines. </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Unfortunately, the water ban is still on in the district which means no outside watering. I’m bummed, but put out my three rain barrels. If need be, I’ll get some jugs (I threw away the ones I had last year not believing we’d be in a water ban this year) and make trips to the brook or lake for water.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8mVAHmbNIZ4/WPtELe72YCI/AAAAAAAAAl4/sURHrY2KJBAMlWDxaSB8jJM_thE7cHmxgCLcB/s1600/17-3147rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8mVAHmbNIZ4/WPtELe72YCI/AAAAAAAAAl4/sURHrY2KJBAMlWDxaSB8jJM_thE7cHmxgCLcB/s320/17-3147rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This section is at the side of the garage. I put extra lilies up here <br />and made tiers down the embankment. You can't tell in the photo<br />but every plant is showing signs of life.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tQJRnqtpIOQ/WPtEzUNDMLI/AAAAAAAAAmA/ltCD7cRde4UC__--vpPNs4g0SAfuFqlCgCLcB/s1600/17-3148rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tQJRnqtpIOQ/WPtEzUNDMLI/AAAAAAAAAmA/ltCD7cRde4UC__--vpPNs4g0SAfuFqlCgCLcB/s200/17-3148rs.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The mulched area holds two more lilies.<br />Behind in front of the rocks are echinacea<br />and rudbeckia.<br /><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fi5FlrSlfNY/WPtFYjoxfHI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/A0k7bNYDwaEzaT4EfD7OBdOwHTlm8GKNACEw/s1600/17-3149rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fi5FlrSlfNY/WPtFYjoxfHI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/A0k7bNYDwaEzaT4EfD7OBdOwHTlm8GKNACEw/s320/17-3149rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Below the retaining wall I had a bunch of various plants. They<br />put the generator on top of half of them (not where we had<br />originally discussed), </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WByqKI_D2mk/WPtFdOss-5I/AAAAAAAAAmM/lAPr2ZpuIP0zOxDEgHx9fOyXbAR0B_OOQCEw/s1600/17-3150rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WByqKI_D2mk/WPtFdOss-5I/AAAAAAAAAmM/lAPr2ZpuIP0zOxDEgHx9fOyXbAR0B_OOQCEw/s200/17-3150rs.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top of the retaining wall where violas<br />and other flowers were planted.<br />I think these got beat up with the<br />generator install.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cCO-FNaPu1U/WPtHE7GmjFI/AAAAAAAAAmY/BsakWZk33hAff7WX2EZkMdem-EkDBBWzQCLcB/s1600/17-3101crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cCO-FNaPu1U/WPtHE7GmjFI/AAAAAAAAAmY/BsakWZk33hAff7WX2EZkMdem-EkDBBWzQCLcB/s200/17-3101crs.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sempervivum hybrid</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SEiOm_dYSI8/WPtHbk8M23I/AAAAAAAAAmc/xVvprjdH0js-gpCyMo_329QC9Q1G6G9iQCLcB/s1600/17-3105crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="128" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SEiOm_dYSI8/WPtHbk8M23I/AAAAAAAAAmc/xVvprjdH0js-gpCyMo_329QC9Q1G6G9iQCLcB/s200/17-3105crs.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sempervivum tectorum -- Red Beauty</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
On April 19, I stopped at Agway to get a new plant to celebrate my mum’s birthday, April 18. They had some beautiful hens and chicks which are succulents and require little water. Perfect! And my mum would have loved them. I bought three different ones and later that day, got them in the ground. I started a new garden with two of the plants placing them far enough apart to give them room to spread. </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WQZDlHXjISs/WPtH7KO5N0I/AAAAAAAAAms/5dnL3rPQSVkvR9j_J3M3vs6IGM7QfbCfgCLcB/s1600/17-3107crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WQZDlHXjISs/WPtH7KO5N0I/AAAAAAAAAms/5dnL3rPQSVkvR9j_J3M3vs6IGM7QfbCfgCLcB/s320/17-3107crs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Semper tectorum -- Piloseum.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I want to better design this new garden, give it some kind of shape. This might become my rock garden with pretty stones. Like with my paintings, I start a project, then need to let it stew for a few days or a week before I know what to really do with it. Each task takes on a life of its own. I just have to wait for it to tell me what it wants.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 15.0px}
</style>
<br />
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-51560664061364537762017-04-11T14:25:00.003-07:002017-04-11T14:25:53.995-07:00Gardening for the Season Begins<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">OK, I know it’s early and I can’t plant anything new, but I can start cleaning up as the snow melts. That’s what I’ve been doing the past few days. I’m calling it all gardening because it’s about cleaning up the yard to get ready for actual flower gardening.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9M3ndISQ3sw/WO1JnMoizDI/AAAAAAAAAks/aZ7lnd0FOrsk-XYIVA3nDFJ638QULGgXACLcB/s1600/17-2788rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9M3ndISQ3sw/WO1JnMoizDI/AAAAAAAAAks/aZ7lnd0FOrsk-XYIVA3nDFJ638QULGgXACLcB/s320/17-2788rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Driveway stone got plowed over the lily garden. I'm raking it<br />back to the driveway.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p3">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">First up was raking the driveway stone that got plowed from the driveway onto the lawn and flower gardens. Most of this was the lily bed. This type of driveway is new to me and during the nicer seasons, it looks nice and it doesn’t get muddy in the rain, but snow plowing scraped off where the driveway was curved for water run-off.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">I’m picking at this project a little at a time to get the bulk of it back to the driveway. The smaller particles will be mixed in with mulch in the garden beds. </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">I love this time of year because it’s exciting to see what the melting snow reveals. Sometimes it’s not so good, but I love finding new growth. I’m amazed to see what plants have been greening under the snow.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">This week I found the first green of a few daylilies poking out of the mulch and I was totally surprised how much green is on the Jacob’s ladder. There is even a few green leaves on daisies that were over taking the garden last fall. On the other side of the front porch, the coreopsis, fully revealed yesterday, has green leaves amid the dark winter-soaked leftover fall leaves. I’ll have to get the pruners and trim that up. </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">I don’t want to do too much yet. There’s still the potential of below freezing nights and possible snow. But it feels so good to get out there.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">This year’s plans (at least right now) is to do some work in the back yard. The house was built on a manmade rise and slopes down in the back to the brook. The outer deck edge is a good 10 feet from the ground. The area was left to be totally natural although I did have someone come in last year to do some basic clean-up of scrub and bushes. </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">This year I want to do more clean-up starting with deadfall and broken limbs. I’d also like to take out a few other trees and saplings. There’s a mix of beech, oak, pine, and hemlock. Ground cover, besides previous years’ leaves includes clubmoss (which I knew as princess pine as kids growing up) and something that grows low to the ground like a holly or winterberry, but I’m not sure exactly what it is.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">I’ve ordered hostas to plant around some old stumps I like. Other than that, I just want the area cleaned up and looking nice. I don’t know how much I will actually do because all I need is to see one tick on me and that will do me in.</span></div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 15.0px}
p.p3 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 11.0px Helvetica; min-height: 13.0px}
p.p4 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 11.0px Helvetica; min-height: 13.0px}
</style>
<br />
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-12854895578788110382017-04-10T07:20:00.002-07:002017-04-10T07:20:37.303-07:00Houseplants and Winter Humidity<div class="p1">
This was written on March31 as the snow was falling and a thick blanket already covers the deck. I won’t be planting outside any time soon, so let’s talk about indoor plants.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I’ve been around plants all my life but never really learned their proper care. I’d keep them watered until they died. Many times, they’d go from looking good to not-so-good to just hanging on to dead. I certainly never thought about humidity except for summer. However, the other side to humidity is air that is too dry, especially in the winter when the furnace or a wood stove is running. It makes sense when you consider most plants are grown in greenhouses where there is a lot of humidity. What a shock it must be for the plant when you get it home and the air is dry; and when the plants begin to dry out, it’s easy to over water. </div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
You don’t need to measure your home humidity levels. The plants will tell you when they are not happy. They will begin to wilt, leaves will get brown edges, buds won’t develop, fall from the plant before opening or shrivel soon after opening. My plants are in colorful pots with a hole in the bottom with a small lip creating a place to hold a little water. Still, they dry out quickly and I can’t tell if I’ve given them enough. </div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Research showed me many tips to keep indoor plants healthy:</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Place them in groups – they help each other by creating pockets of humidity, plus they look good together.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TDYq4lglfrI/WOuUcLyhgeI/AAAAAAAAAkU/UH1woc3qSrIiXsNA2DT8TzIVfYGaIJ8LQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TDYq4lglfrI/WOuUcLyhgeI/AAAAAAAAAkU/UH1woc3qSrIiXsNA2DT8TzIVfYGaIJ8LQCLcB/s320/IMG_2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I used gem stones and minerals collected over the years<br />for my pebble trays.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
Use water-filled pebble trays – this can be a fun design feature to create if you have the room. I use a pretty tray (purple, of course). I’ve been collecting stones for years from gem stones to interesting ones found in the yard or out walking. Put enough water in the tray to almost cover the stones, then set the pots on top so the roots don’t get waterlogged. The evaporating water provides moisture for the plants.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
If you don’t have room or if you don’t want to put water in the tray, place a dish or cup of water near the plants. I keep pretty glasses near the plants where a tray won’t fit, and because I didn’t want to put water in the pebble tray, I put a glass of water in the middle surrounded by the stones and plants.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Misting plants is also very popular – however, it’s a more temporary measure as the water dries up quickly. Just remember not to mist plants with hairy leaves like African violets.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
A humidifier also works.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
The other side of low humidity is high humidity on plants kept in places like a kitchen, bathroom or laundry room. Again, let the plant tell you what it needs. You may just need to move it into another room if it’s not looking healthy.</div>
<div class="p1">
Something else to remember about houseplant care is that dust forms on the leaves. The plants’ leaves draw in light which is crucial for its survival. Dust blocks the pores needed for that light. It’s important to either gently wash them with room temperature water or use a soft brush (like an artist’s brush) on plants with hairy leaves. (The hairy leaves of my African violet are a magnet for cat fur.)</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; color: #323333}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; color: #323333; min-height: 15.0px}
</style>
<br />
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-24984716352607852812017-04-10T07:14:00.003-07:002017-04-10T07:14:37.637-07:00Primrose (perennial/annual)<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: 12px;">My education in gardening continues. I’m always surprised at the information I find. There’s a fine line between purchasing plants, throwing them in the ground and hoping for a beautiful flower garden, and actually learning to take good care of them.</span></div>
<div class="p3">
<br /></div>
<div class="p3">
I'm doing more exploring on the ins and outs of spring flowers purchased at the end of the winter season. These are force-bloomed to bring a spot of color during the dreary season. Some people use them for a one-time blossoming while others hold onto them to plant outside when weather permits. Most of mine are past their indoor-winter bloom time. There's still another month or so before it’ll be safe to do outdoor gardening. So how do I keep my new babies safe until then?</div>
<div class="p3">
<br /></div>
<div class="p3">
I purchased one small primrose plant on Feb. 10. I know these plants have been around for a long time but, for some reason, I’ve never had any. This is a cute little plant with a spherical umbel (a blossom that grows on a short flower stalk). The flowers can be in a variety of colors and most have a bright yellow center. <span class="s2">It’s one of the first flowers to bloom after winter and many varieties can grow in containers. They grow best in zones 5-9 and prefer cooler temperatures. The flowers and leaves are edible, tasting like a bitter lettuce. The leaves can also be used for tea.</span></div>
<div class="p4">
<br /></div>
<div class="p4">
The few blossoms remaining when I made my purchase soon faded. I cut the stem back as directed. Soon, however, the leaves died off and I cut it back to about an inch above the crown. A friend told me this is normal and it will come back next year. I hope so as I feel bad when plants die on me. It’s hard to trust this process of winter dormancy – when to stop watering and put the plant in a dark place for six to eight weeks or so.</div>
<div class="p5">
<span class="s2"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p5">
<span class="s2">When safe planting time arrives, p</span>rimrose can be moved outdoors. (They can also be transplanted while in bloom). Primrose like to be in a cool, partly shady area in the garden or on a balcony with light morning sun (avoid afternoon sun). Place them 4-6 inches deep with the crown even with the soil. The soil should be well-draining and slightly acidic. Position multiple plants six inches apart.</div>
<div class="p5">
<br /></div>
<div class="p5">
Keep the soil moist but don’t over water. Prune dead leaves and blossoms; fertilize once a month while blooming – do not fertilize during winter dormancy. If needed propagate after blooming (late spring) by division.</div>
<div class="p3">
<br /></div>
<div class="p3">
A little extra care is needed to grow primrose indoors. Daytime temperatures must remain below 80 degrees with filtered sun and moist soil. Nighttime temps should be 50-60 degrees. It’s also a good idea to place the pot on a pebble tray because in the winter with the furnace running, the air will dry out quickly and affect the health of indoor plants. </div>
<div class="p3">
<br /></div>
<div class="p3">
However, after they finish blooming in the house, it’s best to plant them outside for the summer. They can stay in their pots and come back in the house in the fall.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p6">
<br /></div>
<div class="p6">
<br /></div>
<div class="p6">
<br /></div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 14.0px 'Times New Roman'}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 15.0px}
p.p3 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'}
p.p4 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; color: #252525}
p.p5 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; color: #000333}
p.p6 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; color: #000333; min-height: 15.0px}
span.s1 {font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'}
span.s2 {color: #252525}
</style>
<br />
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-44340501523222076142017-04-10T07:07:00.003-07:002017-04-10T07:07:46.459-07:00Hyacinths <div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">My education in gardening is never-ending. I am amazed how much there is to it. When I was young, my mother used to have beautiful flower gardens but I realize now that she was lucky … and had a green thumb. I know she didn’t have any of this professional gardening knowledge. I guess, maybe, she learned by trial and error and sharing info between neighbors or she was very intuitive about flowers.</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">Hyacinths are often associated with spring and rebirth so this is good timing to mention them. I bought two potted plants last month (two different shades of purple) and will plant them when the ground is ready. I had grape hyacinths in Bradford. Every year they would spread farther across the lawn and I want their early-season blooms here.</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">My research taught me that grape hyacinths and the hyacinths I recently purchased are not the same. The common grape hyacinth (muscari) flowers are blue-ish, tight, urn-shaped and resemble bunches of grapes. The hyacinths I now have are in the Asparagaceae family. The blossoms come in a variety of colors and are bell-shaped resembling little starfishes.</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">Hyacinths bulbs, light purple or cream in color, are covered with dry, papery, skin-like layers and are usually planted in the fall for spring blooming. The bulbs are poisonous, containing <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxalic_acid">oxalic acid</a>. Handling hyacinth bulbs can cause mild skin irritation. I’ll have to wear protective gloves when transplanting them outside. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KNe_pUwdIt0/WOuRdRmud2I/AAAAAAAAAkA/hHhMybhGLhoQDLhUELZRJJYNRTrSfo3agCLcB/s1600/17-2307crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KNe_pUwdIt0/WOuRdRmud2I/AAAAAAAAAkA/hHhMybhGLhoQDLhUELZRJJYNRTrSfo3agCLcB/s320/17-2307crs.JPG" width="317" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the third hyacinth purchase. The first two were purple.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">A compact spike of flowers grows six to 12 inches from the bulbs with long, narrow leaves folded lengthwise. I found the highly fragrant blossoms a little too potent inside but outside they will be wonderful. Once the blossoms fade, cut the entire spike off. Do not cut back the leaves; let them die back naturally. The bulbs store energy received from the leaves to prepare them for blooming next spring. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">My plants, which were blooming when I bought them, means there are going into their dormant time. Here is another learning experience: Just like outdoor plants and nature winters, indoor plants also need their dormant time. And to keep indoor plants healthy and vibrant, there are times to allow them to die back (they’re not dead) and go into sleep mode. Some do well in a dark closet, a basement or covered with a paper bag for a few weeks. Then they can be brought out, watered and fertilized and they’re ready for another round of blooming.</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">I’m still getting my head around that. Logically, it makes sense but to hold onto a plant that looks dead …</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">My hyacinths, though, will go into the ground with compost, good soil, and a layer of mulch sometime in May. There I will let nature take its course. I’ll leave the leaves intact until they totally die off. Yes, they will not look very good during this period but annuals or other perennials can be planted around them to keep the garden space looking nice. </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 15.0px}
</style>
<br />
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-35479747202647136712017-04-09T06:04:00.002-07:002017-04-09T06:04:45.403-07:00Late Winter-Garden Blahs<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MF14DHrBWQk/WOovjLLDvAI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/gtNZEL0z09U0Blm8TMCIUlGpwPRTHSkXwCLcB/s1600/17-1698crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MF14DHrBWQk/WOovjLLDvAI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/gtNZEL0z09U0Blm8TMCIUlGpwPRTHSkXwCLcB/s320/17-1698crs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How bright and happy is a host of daffodils</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">Last month I bought crocus, tulips, and more hyacinths to go with the other hyacinths and daffodils. They were in bloom and brought color and brightness to the house. Now all the blossoms are spent and these spring-blooming bulbs and tubers are slipping into their dormant period.</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9LMTsxLQxYk/WOowKjjHNNI/AAAAAAAAAjY/i8etdSlMDf4So3NZYuFux4ejkjUU8GG7ACLcB/s1600/17-2307crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9LMTsxLQxYk/WOowKjjHNNI/AAAAAAAAAjY/i8etdSlMDf4So3NZYuFux4ejkjUU8GG7ACLcB/s320/17-2307crs.JPG" width="317" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After buying two purple hyacinths, I bought a pink one.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">Normally these plants are bought as bulbs and planted in the fall for blooming in the spring. Nurseries will plant some in pots and force them to bloom early in greenhouses to sell during the dreary winter months. The plants I purchased were past their prime and on sale (can’t turn down a bargain!) and now I’m worried about getting them through the next month or so until I can plant them outside.</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z9Xan-T6Q_8/WOouMf7RJ2I/AAAAAAAAAjE/X61WlGauk2MbSRsrYA4aiF2fpr4rZUTAACLcB/s1600/17-2489crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z9Xan-T6Q_8/WOouMf7RJ2I/AAAAAAAAAjE/X61WlGauk2MbSRsrYA4aiF2fpr4rZUTAACLcB/s320/17-2489crs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tulip in bloom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">I’m struggling with the indoor gardening aspect of this. The air is very dry and I need to water often. I’ve read a number of websites and there’s just enough differences to cause doubt as to the best for the plants in my house and conditions. </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">I read that it’s important with these plants to cut off the stem and spent blossoms, but allow the leaves to remain until they turn yellow and brown. The green leaves will gather nutrients needed to store in the bulbs for next year’s blooms. Some sites say to stop watering and let them go dormant for a few weeks to a couple of months. Some say to water once a month. And, even though these bulbs are normally planted in the fall, I will plant them as soon as I see similar plants popping up in the garden.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">Pele hasn’t bothered the plants much lately. I put most in the studio and close the door at night because she wouldn’t leave them alone when I first brought them home. I started leaving the geranium out. I’ll occasionally find a bite in a leaf, but other than that, the plant is growing beautifully and now has some buds. I started leaving the tulips out, then the mini roses and hyacinth. </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6GQekCwFgSo/WOow0_2CxPI/AAAAAAAAAjo/cvQywda-P0oO2rjSbW-yl5ap6ddGWLAcgCLcB/s1600/17-2371crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6GQekCwFgSo/WOow0_2CxPI/AAAAAAAAAjo/cvQywda-P0oO2rjSbW-yl5ap6ddGWLAcgCLcB/s320/17-2371crs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The crocus begins blooming</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">I’d put the crocus pot on the window sill during the day and she didn’t touch it, however, not that it’s stopped blooming and the leaves are turning brown, I took it out of the bright light. Now Pele won’t leave it alone. She doesn’t actually eat the leaves, she just bites them off. What a silly kitty. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wFSMzTu73L0/WOotipAWoNI/AAAAAAAAAi8/LODGOxlSClY9YQsZckwwvQIDuKftlyfowCLcB/s1600/17-2825rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wFSMzTu73L0/WOotipAWoNI/AAAAAAAAAi8/LODGOxlSClY9YQsZckwwvQIDuKftlyfowCLcB/s320/17-2825rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pele won't leave the crocus alone. The daffodil, tulip, and crocus<br />are done blooming and going into their dormant stage. I want to<br />get them planted in the garden as soon as I can.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">Oh, just let me get my plant babies through April and the beginning of May. I read one website that said when these types of bulbs start poking up in the outside gardens, it’s OK to plant others.</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span style="font-size: small;">Yesterday in my walk-about-the-yard, I noticed daylily shoots just barely poking up along the slab of the southwest side of the house. However, there is still a foot of snow three feet wide from that point to the front edge of the garden. I’ll see how these next couple of days of 60-70 degree temperatures do the snow. Still, it will be too early to plant.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 15.0px}
</style>
<br />
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-11916558920656367412017-03-21T07:56:00.002-07:002017-03-21T07:56:28.983-07:00Violas - A Late Winter Surprise<div class="p1">
One of my favorite things to do in March is to wander the yard checking out places where the snow melts away to see what is happening on the ground. The above average warm temperatures the end beginning of the month gave me an early opportunity. I was surprised to find one flower and one teeny bud at the edge of the front garden on one of my daily forays. </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RX2N8XlwfGA/WNE4wF8i6AI/AAAAAAAAAgw/S_KqKWTkvdcdWI0HPG4_0PsXWTZKEzaPwCLcB/s1600/17-1960rs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RX2N8XlwfGA/WNE4wF8i6AI/AAAAAAAAAgw/S_KqKWTkvdcdWI0HPG4_0PsXWTZKEzaPwCLcB/s320/17-1960rs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This had to have blossomed while still under the snow, so it's<br />looking a bit beat up. Still, to see the color was exciting.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
To see the new-growth green and the flower was exciting, especially as it meant the blooming started while the plant was still buried. It wasn’t a perfect blossom. It looked a little worse from the wear of being under the snow but still, a blossom in early March?</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
You know spring has arrived when you start seeing violas and violets in nurseries, in the yard and alongside roads. Violas and violets are in the violaceae family and can be annuals or perennials. There are over 525 species. Flower colors range from shades of purple to blue, cream, white and yellow and some are bi-colored. (The large-flowered cultivars developed from violas and used annually for gardens are pansies.) </div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Violas and were the first perennials I purchased last spring and I planted them in flower boxes on the back railing. I was attracted to them because they can be planted earlier than many other plants. Young plants are edible and high in oxidants. </div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I periodically moved the flower boxes throughout the summer depending on the sun. They like spring and early summer sun but as the season heats up, they struggle. If viola get too much sun, they will get tall and “leggy” and produce less blossoms. It’s all about finding the right levels of sun and shade. They also need to be deadheaded regularly to keep them vibrant and blossoming.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I planted them in the ground at the end of the season when they were looking poor. I would love to see them spread and they may do so out of the boxes. Some people consider violas and violets weeds but I’ve always loved the bits of brightness throughout the lawn. They also look great as borders in the flower garden, and who knows, I may get more for the flower boxes again this year.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
As I write this the Saturday before a big storm, I know I can’t get too excited. Winter has not let go yet. Still, writing and thinking about pretty spring flowers brings cheerful thoughts of the warmer weather to come.</div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 15.0px}
</style>
<br />
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-46457377023112606372017-03-21T07:24:00.000-07:002017-03-21T07:24:03.147-07:00Confused About Cyclamen<div class="p1">
I purchased this indoor plant last month year they were on sale. This means it is kind of mid- to off-season or getting close. There were two blossoms and once they faded, I cut back the stem as close as I could to the bottom. Now the plant seems to struggle as the leaves are starting to wilt. I looked up cyclamen to see how to take better care of it.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Cyclamen I've had in past homes never seemed to live long, but then, I never made an attempt to find out its proper care. This time I want to be better with my plants because they bring joy to a home.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ub395WGFkW0/WNE1l9BzFuI/AAAAAAAAAgY/3FNVJw0sj0Y90s7KuLrGDZYElYtqeOeigCLcB/s1600/17-1795d2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ub395WGFkW0/WNE1l9BzFuI/AAAAAAAAAgY/3FNVJw0sj0Y90s7KuLrGDZYElYtqeOeigCLcB/s320/17-1795d2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My little cyclamen seems to struggle. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
Cyclamen are originally from the Mediterranean and can be fussy about temperature and water. They are not bulbs but tubers, a short vertical stem from which roots grow anywhere along the tuber. Leaves and flowers grow from points on the top and will bloom in winter and go dormant in the spring. The size of the tubers, and colors and shapes of the flowers and leaves, vary depending on species.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
The information I gathered from three or four websites turned out to be more time consuming than usual. I ran into some issues in the attempt at one cohesive write-up because there are contradictions as to when the plant goes dormant and how long to let it be in that state. Most sites said to not let the leaves or stems get wet while watering while a couple other sites said to periodically spray water on the leaves. There are also differences in when and how long to fertilize. Some even say to throw the plant out once it stops blooming.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Maybe this means that people who fall in love with the exquisite flowers have to learn for themselves how to best care for their plant. </div>
<div class="p1">
Below is what I have gathered to be basic care. Feel free to contact me with stories of your cyclamen.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Cyclamen basic care:</div>
<div class="p1">
Cyclamen should be in pots with holes in the bottom which means the pot needs to have a bottom watering section or set in a bowl or dish. Water when the plant is dry to the touch and water from the bottom. The roots will gather up the water keeping the leaves and stems dry. </div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Fertilize once every other week in the fall/early winter until blooms appear, then every three to four weeks while blooming with a houseplant fertilizer. Clip the stems of faded blossoms close to the top of the crown to keep the plant flowering.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
The cyclamen goes dormant in the spring and the leaves fall off and the plant looks dead. Stop watering and fertilizing once the leaves start dying and allow it to go to sleep. Remove any dead foliage and put the plant in a cool, somewhat dark place for a couple months. </div>
<div class="p1">
Bring it out of storage in the fall. Remove the tuber and wash it off. Check for damage, soft spots, or discoloration, and if it seems crowded in the pot, replant it in a bigger pot to half the tuber’s length in fresh potting soil and completely soak. Set the pot in a cool, indirectly lit area. </div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Once leaves start to grow, resume normal care throughout the late fall and winter.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Perhaps it's all about learning how the plants react in their environment. Maybe it will just take a season or so for it to acclimate to this house.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'}
p.p2 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; min-height: 15.0px}
</style>
<br />
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-508973746179468342017-03-21T06:50:00.001-07:002017-03-21T07:07:07.877-07:00Learning about Amaryllis<div class="p1">
If I can’t garden outside, I may as well learn to have flowers inside.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br />
Here is an update about the two waxed amaryllis I purchased in February at Agway in Hillsborough. I never did get to see it in bloom. I was a little shocked when I went online to read about this plant. The marketing scheme, very popular in Europe, is to make the amaryllis sound like the perfect gift for the holidays – no watering and easy care. However, no watering and easy care means the plant won’t live past a couple of blooms because they cut off the roots and encase it in wax holding just enough nutrients to have it bloom a couple of times. Then the plant is thrown away. </div>
<div class="p1">
<br />
I researched how I can salvage the two plants I purchased. (If I’d known about this ahead of time, I wouldn’t have spent the money. If I wanted throw-away flowers, I’d buy cut bouquets.) One person told me to pull all the wax off, plant it in good potting soil and hope the it will live. Someone else told me she pulled off all the wax and a layer of the onion-like skin and set the bulb in water hoping the roots will grow. Then she will plant it in potting soil. Yet another person said putting the bulb in water will cause the bulb to rot.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dkte0FqIXc8/WNEwwUgkFYI/AAAAAAAAAgE/RkKFKJufbIc0ow9AbQfFy2kS_CBKkMF9QCLcB/s1600/17-1657crs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dkte0FqIXc8/WNEwwUgkFYI/AAAAAAAAAgE/RkKFKJufbIc0ow9AbQfFy2kS_CBKkMF9QCLcB/s320/17-1657crs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see how the bottom of the bulb was cut flat by the grower,<br />
but here, after I scraped off all the wax and soaked the bottom in<br />
water, there are roots sticking out.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="p1">
But what are the alternatives? This beautiful plant might as well be dead as it is, so I’m trying the water method and after soaking the bottom all day and overnight, I turned the bulbs over this morning to see roots starting to poke down. Yes! I am so excited!<br />
<br />
One bulb with its little roots poking out was planted in a pot with good potting soil. The other bulb I left in the water for two more days. Eventually, there was a hint of root sticking out of the side of the bottom. I planted it. Both plants are still looking good a couple weeks later with the leaves green and vibrant.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I learned a lot in the research. For instance, the bigger the bulb, the bigger the blossom and the more times it will bloom. The flowering period is usually winter and spring. Leaves will still grow and be vibrant into summer as the plant will continue to gather nutrients. Stop watering and feeding in mid-August. Cut the leaves back to two inches from the bulb after the leaves turn yellow and remove it from the soil. Clean it and store it in a cool 40-50 degree, dark place for a minimum of six weeks. (Do not store near apples. Apples will cause amaryllis to go sterile.) After six weeks, replant the bulb in fresh potting soil, begin regular watering and get ready for another winter of pretty blossoms.</div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'}
</style>
<br />
<div class="p1">
<br />
<br /></div>
sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1235343172706935271.post-36958697915687859352017-02-20T09:07:00.000-08:002017-02-20T09:07:06.503-08:00<div class="p1">
I felt like gardening, but as it's only February, I resolved my gardening needs by making a trip to Agway in Hillsborough. I love the people there; they are friendly, helpful, and knowledgable. A couple of friends had been posting pictures of their amaryllis plants and I wanted one and recently bought two “waxed” amaryllis plants. Melissa told me when the wax crumbles away, I can put the bulb in soil. </div>
<div class="p1">
A few days later I looked up amaryllis on the internet. I am building my own gardening manual. I usually read three or four websites and pull together information that pertains to this area. I make notes on planting, watering, and care, and I take photos of "my" plants to put on the page.</div>
<div class="p1">
I was saddened by the reading of what the growers do to the amaryllis plant to make it a pretty holiday gift. Their marketing makes it an easy, no-care purchase which makes it even more attractive. However, there's a downside.</div>
<div class="p1">
The roots are cut off at the bulb and a metal piece inserted into the bottom so the plant can sit upright. Then wax is poured around the bulb sealing in whatever moisture is necessary to get the plant through a couple of flowerings (notice I’m saying a couple). The plants sold this way are advertised as needing no water. </div>
<div class="p1">
Two things happen from the wax. One is that it keeps roots from growing -- plants get nutrients through their roots. Two, whatever water is sealed within the wax to keep the amaryllis blooming a couple of times, will also rot the bulb. Eventually the plant dies whether from lack of nutrients or bulb rot.</div>
<div class="p1">
Amaryllis is a beautiful living plant and needs water and a root system to survive. After reading this, I knew I needed a couple of bigger pots, so back to Agway I went as they were having a sale on brightly colored ceramic pots. (I couldn’t resist buying another purple hyacinth which will eventually go out in the garden.) </div>
<style type="text/css">
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; text-align: justify; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'}
</style>
<br />
<div class="p1">
My next goal will be to make sure all the wax is off the amaryllis. I will also carefully peel off the outer onion-like layer of skin on the bulb to make sure there is no rot. Once it’s cleaned up, I’ll carefully plant the bulb in good potting soil with plenty of room for the roots to grow (hopefully) and water as needed. </div>
sashahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01519365873826104339noreply@blogger.com0