April Whimsy

Plant Whimsy

The sweetness of April arrives bringing spring’s green leaves, sprouts, blooms, and wildlife babies. The potential for delight could hardly be greater in any other month of the year.  Garden visitors wander in with their expectations high.  New gardeners, flush with knowledge, walk wide-eyed now identifying annuals, edibles and perennials. The serious horticulturalist seeks out specimens and hybrids, checking to see how last year’s new varieties survived the winter.  Landscape designers explore the style and flow of the garden.  Plant fans hurry in to see the collection of their favorites, be they bamboos, orchids, agaves or roses.  There are so many opportunities to enjoy and explore a garden.  Yet whatever category you find yourself, if you are visiting a garden in April, you want to be open to whimsy....   Continue Reading

Sounds of Peace

When birds stop singing. . .

 

“Across some stretches every tree had been felled by gunfire or cut down intentionally.  No bird song was heard, no birds remained.”*

It is comforting to sit in a garden and hear the songs of birds. The tall trees provide an orchestra hall for the birds to welcome the morning.  I am the audience enjoying the notes sung by the chorus of mockingbirds, cactus wrens, grackles and doves....   Continue Reading

Night in a garden

Writings

As a kid I was afraid of the dark.  Many a summer night when I forgot to put away my bicycle or toy wagon I was told to “Go outside and put away my things!”  A dark night and only a small porch light to show me way, I stood trembling at the back door, holding my breath.  I would dash out, do the task and dash back in my heart racing.  Now night time outside in the garden is a favorite time for me....   Continue Reading