The musings and adventures of an enthusiastic grower
For some, it's stamps, cards, knick-knacks, or memorabilia from their travels, but for me, it's always seeds. I have been collecting seeds for over twenty years, and my passion for collecting has only increased in that time. I love everything about seeds. I admire the diversity in their shape, size, and color in every rainbow …
It is the season for feeling thankful, and I am incredibly grateful this year. Of course, for important things like family and health, but also for all the little things like watching my son play soccer or performing in a concert, a purring cat on my lap on a cold night, or preparing a new …
Continue reading "Reflections on Our First Season at Whistling Bee Farm"
One of the questions I've been asked in my first season as a commercial cut flower grower is, "What's the difference between your flowers and those I can buy at the grocery store?" or "Why is buying local flowers important?" I know it can seem like these flowers are the same, but several key differences …
As we say farewell to October, I feel an underlying sense of urgency in the garden. I know that winter is on its way. I have crossed off many items on my fall gardening checklist, but still, many things remain. I know that I need to work quickly to complete the tasks before the first …
Continue reading "What’s Growing on in the Garden: October 2022"
Whether I care to admit it or not, winter is on its way in my neck of the woods. We are set to get our first hard frost this week, marking the end of the growing season. So, I’m starting to prepare myself physically by digging out those sweaters, hats, and gloves, and emotionally (how …
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 …
THISTLE BE THE DAY 