Saturday, October 19, 2013

Little black bags



Old trims and thrift store bags.  To carry or not?

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Geraniums

These are doing their best because they may have heard the Channel 7 news.  Ms. Gloom and Mr. Doom are saying any day now the weather will turn to the thirties.

I bought these at Lowes for 74 cents and although I have never liked geraniums, I do like 74 cents.
Now I am thinking I might try to overwinter them.  Just wondering if you have tried this.  It is from the Iowa State University Horticulture and Home Pest News:

"Dormant Storage

Geraniums are unusual and unlike many annual flowers, they have the ability to survive for most of the winter without soil. If properly stored, they can resist extended dry periods due to their thick, succulent-like stems. To overwinter geraniums in dormant storage, dig up the entire plant before frost and gently shake the soil from the roots. Place the plants inside open paper bags or hang them upside-down from the rafters in a cool, dark location for the winter. Ideally the temperature should be between 45-50 F. Two or three times during the winter, take the plants out the bags or down from the rafters and soak the roots in water for 1 or 2 hours. At this time, inspect the stems. While many of the leaves will die and fall off, the stems should remain firm and solid. Discard any geraniums with shriveled stems, since those plants will most likely die. Pot up healthy dormant geraniums in containers in late March or early April. Water plants thoroughly and cut back the dead stem tips. Place potted plants in a sunny window to initiate new growth. It often takes several weeks for plants to initiate growth after dormant storage.
No matter how geraniums have been overwintered, they should be healthy, free-flowering plants for spring. After being indoors all winter, your geraniums may be as anxious as you are for spring planting. Plant them after the danger of frost has passed and enjoy their colorful blooms all summer. You can invest your savings in new geranium varieties to overwinter next year."

Just saying..

Monday, October 14, 2013

Mid October Garden

This is why I like zinnias.  This is only one plant.  The blue behind it is tall Ageratum.
When I walked out this morning, with my coffee, the birds were singing like they do in spring.  Maybe they are grateful, as well as we are, that we have these extra days of enjoying the garden. I don't think they are Tiger fans. 
Brussel Sprouts is a plant I never tried. My neighbor gave this plant to me, and now he needs to eat them.
This is a mystery plant.  It is about 16 inches wide.  I'm sure it is a weed.

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

Just hello.

Everyone seems to be excited that it is October.  I think we get pumpkin-fever about this time.
Have a sweet day.