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, …
The Winter Wait
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 …
What’s Growing on in the Garden: November 2023
And just like that, the growing season is officially over! November went by in a flash, and now we’re entering the last month of 2023! Each year, I marvel at how fast time flies. I’m unsure how it always catches me off guard, but it always does. It is time again to share what’s been …
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Water Woes
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 …
Sense of Humor Required
I've learned many lessons from the garden over the years, whether it be patience, persistence, or gratitude, but one of the first things the garden taught me was that you must have a sense of humor. As growers, we face many challenges, from pests, disease, weather extremes, wildlife, and sometimes even ourselves. I probably would …
Is Spring Springing?
I know that spring hasn't quite sprung, as there is still snow on the ground, and the temperatures remain below freezing, but is spring at least springing? Please say that it is. It seems that each year, about this time, I decide that I am done with winter. I am done throwing on ten layers …
Confessions of a Hoarderculturist
I’ve been noticing the signs for a while now, but I couldn’t bring myself to admit the truth. It started innocently enough, an extra seed packet added to the shopping cart every once in a while, but it has escalated over the years. Now it might be getting out of control. My garden beds are …
Planting Memories
Growing up, I have fond memories of my mother's Lily-of-the-Valley. Whenever it was in bloom, she would pick a small bouquet for the house, and the kitchen filled with the flower's intoxicating scent. In my mind, those flowers and their fragrance will forever have a connection to my mother, and I will always think of …
