2016 Spring Has Sprung

 

Yesterday sure didn't feel like spring. Most of winter was warmer then yesterday and last night when it began to snow. But despite last night's snowfall, Spring is officially here as are my backyard visitors. Our mild winter however has brought them here even sooner than usual it seems. The Bluebirds and Mourning Cloaks appeared two weeks ago and I heard Spring Peepers on February 29th, Leap Year Day, no pun intended. The seedings are emerging as are the garden plants. And I have heard the calls of the Pine Warblers. So I believe we are on our way to seeing the beautiful spring green leafbudding soon. This always brings me a happy feeling and I believe I would be correct in saying many would share that sentiment.

My plans for the property this year are to install a native fruit orchard where Blueberries, Blackberries, Chokeberries, Beach Plums, Cranberries and Ostrich Ferns will grow. I will also be expanding the native moon garden and hope to be able to start the rain garden.

Perennial Salt Marsh Aster

I have sown a new species this year to offer in the nursery, Perennial Salt Marsh Aster, Symphyotrichum tenuifolia, which is  great for coastal gardens as it is salt tolerant and blooms along with the Seaside Goldenrods. I am happy that they have germinated well, and hopefully will be ready in late summer. I am interested to see if it will bloom the first year as many fall blooming plants do. I have also geminated some Pink Turtlehead, Chelone lyonii, a more southern species, for the first time.  

I love talking about the plants and once again plan to hold a workshop at the ACUA annual Earth Day fair. I will be talking about how to make a pollinator garden. I created one two years ago here on the new property and it really took off and has been "abuzz" ever since. I will be sharing my tips for helping folks start one.

I hope everyone has had a wonderful year and that I will be seeing you all, my friends and customers at the fairs and festivals. And please feel free to send me a message if you have any questions on native plants. I will be happy to help. Be well and happy Spring!

Raven