The musings and adventures of an enthusiastic grower
Fall has taken a firm grip here in the Hudson Valley of NY as we glide into October. The temperatures have started to cool, the leaves are changing color, and I want to spend more time on the couch with a good garden book. I’m craving comforting soups instead of summer salads, find the cats …
Somehow, we have successfully navigated the back-to-school marathon and all the music ensembles, athletics, and extracurricular activities that come with it. My son's event calendar was enough to keep me on my toes in September; after all, I am his primary chauffeur, personal administrative assistant, and head cheerleader at all his events. Such is the …
Continue reading "What’s Growing on in the Garden: September 2022"
Ahhh, fall has officially arrived, bringing cooler temperatures, the smell of freshly fallen leaves, and the start of sweater weather and soup season. I love fall; it may just be my favorite season. There is nothing quite like biting into the first fresh apple, sipping hot apple cider, and seeing the leaves put on a …
Bright, cheery, and emulating its namesake, sunflowers are always a crowd favorite. When it comes to summer flowers, this bloom is often at the top of the list. You can't help but smile at their bright yellow petals (incidentally called rays) that give them their sun-like appearance. They are beloved by many, but, in all …
This week’s post isn’t going to be pretty. It’s not filled with photos of beautiful flowers, harvested vegetables, or even cute wildlife (well, maybe a few). But it will give an unedited glimpse into the reality of being a grower during climate change. As the climate crisis worsens, we are seeing natural disasters occur more …
It's hard to believe that we are starting to close the door to summer and are about to welcome the fall season. But, I'm not going to lie; I'm ready for the cooler temperatures that the change of seasons will bring, making garden tasks much more enjoyable. This growing season has been challenging to say …
Continue reading "What’s Growing on in the Garden: August 2022"
I was recently asked, “What is a cut flower?” and while it seemed straightforward, the question caused me to pause. The simple definition of a cut flower is any flower or bud cut from a plant for decorative purposes such as flower arranging. But the more I thought about it, the more I wanted to …
There are several processes that flower farmers use to ensure customers are getting the freshest flowers possible with the most extended vase life. One of the essential factors in keeping flowers fresh is hydration. During the day's heat, flowers lose water through a process called transpiration. Warmer temperatures during the day can cause the flowers …
Continue reading "Fresh as a Daisy: 5 Tips for Extending the Life of Your Flower Bouquet"
How is it possible that it is August already? Time certainly has been flying this summer. Our lives here at Whistling Bee Farm have been hectic this past month as the annuals we are growing are finally hitting their stride. The flowers are at their most abundant, and we are trying to keep up with …
Continue reading "What’s Growing on in the Garden: July 2022"
Each season, I like to try something new. Something I've never planted before and have limited knowledge about growing: I enjoy the challenge and exhilaration of trying a new variety. I love the learning process, from the research before planting to the harvesting and enjoyment (if I'm lucky enough to get that far). Often, I'll …
THISTLE BE THE DAY 