The musings and adventures of an enthusiastic grower
Happy Valentine’s Day, Saint Valentine’s Day, or the Feast of Saint Valentine, whichever you prefer! Originating as a day to honor a martyr named Valentine, Valentine’s Day has become a commercial, religious, and cultural day to celebrate love and romance. Chocolates, plush animals, and, of course, flowers have become popular gifts to give loved ones …
They say that life is in the details and that paying attention to them will increase your quality of life. I can’t tell you for sure that this is true, but I can say that I have found mystery, joy, and satisfaction in noticing them. I have always been detail-oriented and enjoy noticing all the …
It’s that time of year again when I sit and reflect on the past season and look forward to the next. Goals emerge as I reflect on what I hope to accomplish in the upcoming year. Yup, with a new year comes new resolutions! A few years ago, I learned I need to set goals …
Our 2024 dahlia season is officially over, and all the dahlias are (thankfully) dug, divided, and safely stored until next season. It was a very challenging growing year, as climate change brought early heatwaves and crippling drought, which took a toll on the farm flowers, especially our dahlias. We lost many plants to the heat; …
By the time October rolls around, most of our flowers have started to fade, and I have turned my attention to wrapping up the season. I collect seeds and harvest the final flowers for drying while the threat of a season-ending frost looms. However, a few flower exceptions have become quintessential fall blooms on the …
Continue reading "What’s Growing on in the Garden: October 2024"
I’ll be the first to admit that I’m a sensitive soul. I wear my heart on my sleeve and can be affected deeply by what’s happening around me. My mind is restless, and it is often challenging to quiet it. I have dubbed myself a worry expert and never lack for something that causes me …
Do you know how, when you watch a show or a movie, sometimes they have warnings to let you know that there is graphic content or strobe lights? I should include a warning with this post because this isn’t my usual feel-good, pretty picture kind of post. You see, our farm is being invaded, and …
Spring has officially arrived! At least according to the calendar. However, I don’t think Mother Nature got the memo because this week, we are dipping well below freezing each night. With the unusually warm winter, many of our fall-planted bulbs are weeks ahead of schedule, and now I’m rushing to protect them from the freezing …
For years, I avoided succulents. Despite my fascination with them and affinity for how they look, with their fleshy, water-storing stems and leaves, they stood no chance of surviving in my household. I am loathe to admit that I have killed many a cactus in my day. When it comes to succulents such as cacti, …
You know when the kids in the backseat of the car constantly ask, “Are we there yet?” Well, that’s been me the past few weeks while I dream of spring. Don’t get me wrong, I love the changing of the seasons. My Northeastern roots keep me longing for that first snowflake of the season and …
THISTLE BE THE DAY 