Autumnal Textures
Fall finally showed up. After a blazing September and confusing October, November is turning out rather lovely. And then it will snow.
Messing with Asteraceae
Asteraceae or the daisy family is one of, if not the biggest, family in the plant world. Everyone loves a daisy from the tiniest insect to the tallest human. Autumn can be a time when Asteraceae really shines.
September Snapshot
September has been crammed with action, from a week in the Grand Tetons to the Perennial Plant Association’s Fall Conference with plenty of teaching and writing stuffed in between. This is a snapshot of what a fabulous fall can look like.
A Pollinator Party!
Blunt mountain mint (Pycnanthemum muticum) is one pollinator party plant! It is literally buzzing with all sorts of bees, wasps, flies, beetles, and miscellaneous bugs. I planted it for the silvery loveliness of its bracts when it blooms and also got great plant TV.
Swingin’ with Swallowtails
I seem to have created a black swallowtail nursery. Between the dill, fennel, parsley, and zizia, they have lots to choose from. I like to watch the caterpillars chomping away, doing their job of eating machine.
Wish Upon a Pond
I’ve wanted a container pond since forever. This year, I am making it happen! I scored a deal on a huge blue pot, bought myself a papyrus, and have been messing around with pumps. Six trips to the hardware store later…
Poke Milkweed Victory!
After years of trying to site poke milkweed (Asclepias exaltata) and keep the rabbits from mowing it down - success! I’m managing to keep about a half dozen stems alive and one finally bloomed.
It’s Tulip Time!
How can anyone resist a tulip? So elegant and easy-going. Until the critters find them. But never mind that. It’s tulip time!
Delight of April Flowers
April has arrived and Mother Nature is tossing bouquets everywhere. Happy spring! Don’t forget to bring some flowers indoors.