I’m happiest in nature. It shouldn’t come as such a surprise to me to realise this. In a world I’ve often struggled to make peace with, I’ve always felt most calm, most content, in the forest or garden. Sometimes, when I work in the garden, it feels like a holy rite. Something sacred. It’s like […]
My garden
For want of a pot
Spring has definitely sprung here in Vancouver. It was a glorious, sunny weekend, and I finally got started on my garden plans. The first order of business, I decided, was to buy some new containers for the soon-to-be kitchen garden right outside, well, the kitchen. Since this is a highly-visible location (on our front patio) […]
Now planting … anxiety
Alex asked what I’m starting from seed right now, and honestly, my response was, “Oh Christ, I’d better get on that!” Aren’t I, as a “real” gardener, supposed to be trembling with excitement now that the gardening season has started in earnest (at least here in Zone 8)? I should have started my seeds by […]
Container water gardens
There are three – count ’em – three ponds where I live now (mind you, it’s a half-acre property). I love the ponds. I love the sound of the waterfalls, I love the waterlilies that bloom in the summer, and I really love the koi. Kids get such a kick out of feeding them; some […]
Has the fat lady sung for my paperwhites?
I was always told that paperwhite bulbs were only good for one round of forcing, and to throw them away after the party ended. Of course, I had to at least try to get them to bloom again. I saved last year’s forced bulbs and replanted them, hoping to force them for Christmas. Sadly, only […]
The New Place
Since Takoma Gardener asked to see the “before” photos of our new place, and since we’ve recently been informed that our final inspection is scheduled for January 9 (seven more sleeps!)… may I present… the New Place: The photo above is of the view from the street, and actually isn’t even of our place. We’re […]
New year’s resolutions for the garden
1. I will be patient. I will get to know my new plot of land1 before rushing to fill it with trend-of-the-minute plants. Please note, however, that I do not have the ability to wait for a full year, as some garden authorities recommend, to note sun exposure. I know my limitations. 2. I will […]
Humble Viburnum
This little guy was one of my first perennial purchases. At the time, I didn’t know much about gardening, so I asked the lady at the nursery for suggestions. My requirements: must do well in a container and in shade, look good most of the year, and not require too much work. She suggested the […]