tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54877955935284005412024-02-21T09:23:31.203-06:00Everyday Urban GardenerReplacing the drudgery of mowing with the satisfaction of growing food.Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.comBlogger95125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-41007029119918710062015-12-06T13:02:00.000-06:002015-12-06T13:02:00.168-06:00My First Lemon from Lemon Tree in Minnesota<p><img title="First Lemon Grown Indoors in Minnesota" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="First Lemon Grown Indoors in Minnesota" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4T9NXC_DOzclSOqZnJoNgL5lImMsGddD_yKq873CK2u-7JQTG9C12Fl_N_TP5fFuP6vHwNDwN_HCM1oViMRc5di7elJcSo64A_GjMCiNw19e-ecHsB6tfeYmqoDpbHOoKf6NXHGtm/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="273"></p> <p>I’ve had my lemon tree for a two years now, and it finally produced two small lemons. They should be larger, but I’ve been neglecting repotting the tree. It’s growth has suffered as a result. I plan on moving it to a much larger pot with lots of fresh compost to help it grow larger. It has <a href="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com/2014/03/citrus-flowers.html" target="_blank">bloomed before</a>, but this is the first time it has produced fruit. The blooms are beautiful and smell amazing. </p> <p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/97259407@N02/13340033573/"><img border="0" alt="Citrus Flowers" src="http://static.flickr.com/7379/13340033573_5302a3f574.jpg"></a> <p>I’ve been excitedly watching the two lemons grow all summer. The second is still ripening. The first became ripe and fell off the tree this week. It was small, but very <a href="http://everydaytastiness.com">tasty</a>. I used it to make some lemon blueberry pancakes. Delicious! </p> <p>The tree is actually a 3-N-1. It is a mix of orange, lemon, and tangerine. I hope to see the other parts of the tree produce fruit next year. It is satisfying to eat tropical fruit grown from your own tree in the frozen North of Minnesota. </p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-17011891599771477912015-09-23T11:05:00.001-05:002015-09-23T11:05:14.864-05:00More Fruit Trees! Asian Pear, Peach, and Apricot<p> <img title="asian pear tree" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="asian pear tree" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSTxYejNFElJmlqdLe4Z-eeYCP3YVNMuoDlPeWCugI3DrhoqO-IGOKl4FqUS-EHoNWYQRs_kdSn4-Tr2dhGOx0MmMUBbeB1YzAr5spd3Jagef-98NaaTlRfKJEl0kBl7Qi1ZQz84yo/?imgmax=800" width="281" height="500"></p> <p>This past weekend I planted three new fruit trees. This brings me up to nine different fruit trees with seven different kinds of fruit. I am really excited to have this variety in my zone 4 yard. For those of you curious, I have three apple, cherry, plum, pear, asian pear, peach, and apricot. </p> <p><img title="polly peach tree" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="polly peach tree" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7n8_vH5UKYNj5_XfmeRHT-YfGQnsBmm4l7UctyUCG08Q5wUdgyijBuU_PuovmA8qZhirdolzUYxfPuMIe51g9iUs5YF0D81Jk0LF61FFDdNswwpQNJo_c0pcpHshR5gM1qWQAtCm_/?imgmax=800" width="281" height="500"></p> <p>The first photo is of the new Tawara Asian pear and the photo above is of a Polly Peach. I bought both locally at Gertens for a very fair price. They are good sized trees and look very healthy. They also come with a one year warranty should anything go wrong. </p> <p><img title="apricot tree" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="apricot tree" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX9rvEU38XmLrUYW1EHC5NwRe4YkPuqQ_PBGEBDBvq7qDkq2Q-dQAhcPS_kReUIKkA5xxxRIKkq70up5tWUST8npvBrCP7cDz6woLZP5kYHpsRktUWJtm8cJyzi3-azQNk9ALl1B1X/?imgmax=800" width="281" height="500"></p> <p>The final tree is an apricot purchased locally in highland park. It is the most expensive tree in my yard now. I think it was worth it because apricots seem rather rare at the different nurseries I have visited. </p> <p>We planted them by digging a hole twice as big as the container. We filled the hole with finished compost. The grass and old poor quality soil was put into the compost heap. We covered the area with cardboard and then a heavy layer of woodchip mulch. </p> <p><img title="nitrogen fixing cover crop" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="nitrogen fixing cover crop" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgir4TCbhb2E4DbT2tMDC1KtwLPdOHsFJPf5r9iq8IAnwHLLf0DP2x2xUxu6SoN6zooRnjXKLQT0BpaKI7UD20PBjxhl-FNV2rZYpLXTzL2RgENhvapTT3DGniJ3iRTA-VxmKdP6n7d/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>To help with nitrogen in the area, I planted a combination of hairy vetch and clovers. The cherry and plum tree are surrounded by clover and doing much better than the apple trees without. I spread it around to my existing trees as well. I just hope the squirrels don’t eat all the seeds before they germinate. </p> <p><img title="perenial flowers" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="perenial flowers" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMHcDeTg7LdnjlqRvJ6TKcrCLsqenMzuKs8eN8ffRXnIUtpIkvLsLaP4_r1J3tcAMg6TYMQ7iLGnKQGGO3KjsEXUyV_soBbFdlSOL58hBt_sICoRppySkn5xPQo03v8-lV5iC4MmuI/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>For my existing pear tree, I added some perennial flowers including mums, cone flowers, black-eyed susans, and garlic chives near the area to add some color, visual interest, and extra food for my <a href="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com/2014/05/honeybees.html">honeybees</a>. </p> <p><img title="plums" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="plums" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC2UkhIR5cdFO389R3uNx_lRiZ9M0z5c9FXJvWMy2ogISGGJ9yQzo8YjZ3XsGwN599-N3jYlYR9T0WCYbE8F2XBlEVheQxK5yLFxpDoUpCHspgbT3ZKXYkPJhHR8mZgc8NseAFHKVm/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>These are the two very ripe plums from my mount royal plum tree. I planted the tree last fall and was super surprised to see it flower this spring and produce these delicious plums. They were the best plums I have ever eaten. I can’t wait to more next year! </p> <p>I have room for a couple more fruit trees, so I am still on the lookout for varieties hardy enough to survive a zone 4 Minnesota winter. I would love a pluot tree.</p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-13973867231100291172015-07-24T07:17:00.001-05:002015-07-24T07:17:03.376-05:00Garden Flowers<p><img title="Cosmos Flowers" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Cosmos Flowers" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJLPcpDKgySfVs3ON7YTGT7NPoI-shLLzsycjVvqbUjgOkOn89V0lcGk1IBOeNhllz2GQwO6AdAEZ81-H_nvkiiv8AnHDEKoAblNYRB6idGhOeMmPsWmPzYj8Eh635AqS7WrC69YYp/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="333"></p> <p>New flowers seem to be blooming all over the yard and <a href="http://everydayurbangardener.com">garden</a>. Above are some cosmos. I planted a few, and at least three plants are very healthy and blooming. </p> <p><img title="Milkweed" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Milkweed" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZDu0_MuhXkSwr70HV0NM8rGziK-vMe6AiKned8qwDCQyofK8vGaEAZPCj4jQ0hhR556w9cHa8CGTu8-n2l6OFSBjanzGpUVnMoqLxpTWE1QLfww0cPcz7kVnbMEgaJHnrdWVU9Dmr/?imgmax=800" width="483" height="500"></p> <p>The milkweed is just beginning to bloom. This Monarch was nice enough to pose for a photo. </p> <p><img title="x500--24" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="x500--24" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV3NyG88TLQnOh6aV60ZO2LDQbZ4pJwotSxBPidOYhfMk8KNsrxUwNLKWX2XlEIe6hXQdLoeLDMwAsM7WnUv7FHGp-r8pwu9S00DxH8GhHC1uwmQ7GueQ-jkBQkAEJT1Cc6Ao5CWfV/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="381"></p> <p>I’m letting some of the Arugula go to seed, so I have some seeds for later. They are blooming as well. </p> <p><img title="x500--32" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="x500--32" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ma42Gv8YQxk/VbIsu4DPqUI/AAAAAAAAAm0/4kMYuFxeF8E/x500--323.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="362"></p> <p>I have a shady spot right by my front door, so I planted some perennial dead nettles. They have tiny little pink flowers. They are establishing themselves nicely in their full shade spot. </p> <p><img title="Bee Suit Hive Inspection" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Bee Suit Hive Inspection" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzisAUNeyZ8vE-N6Kbd-epF4Iga97y03q52tx-6ri-Wt7XqaALQw5z2OgUoFfBNkWEz_kzsMc7fT98ffd3cZFLswod7dBSLG0SA3b6r1i1Wb16Wxtf1pJXjZikC3Fps6SZvxz3Eyjx/?imgmax=800" width="424" height="500"></p> <p>Milkweed blooming. I have been trying to keep them weed free and mulched slightly to encourage them to take over the area. I am hoping I can get this area as a milkweed nursery, so I can plant more around the yard in the future. </p> <p><img title="Cilantro Flowers" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Cilantro Flowers" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WC3PL8oogd8/VbIsvgaE9LI/AAAAAAAAAnE/Aw2mkJEmovw/x500-Cilantro-Flowers-43.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="332"></p> <p>Some volunteer cilantro is already going to seed. The plants are pretty small, so I won’t be collecting the seeds. I plant to put a new raised bed over the top of this area. The bees and other insects are enjoying the blooms in the meantime. </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.onegirltwocities.com">Laura</a> captured some of these photos with my camera, and I edited them. I think they turned out pretty great. </p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-17597055791406606042015-07-17T12:49:00.001-05:002015-07-17T12:49:27.185-05:00Insects in the Garden<p><img title="Wasp" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Wasp" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4jjDkJOwlSQK2-HJNDkfkHc4DgSOyUY4Boh93ZRXlB8vYrJF_OEE7lUwLxHMf1BE3beIMRT-1ikbUhRJVKfWaz7Im8cJVAEInA65hckxoakSAIfuXOPjZvvpOKw96ric7mSCPqlPP/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="455"></p> <p>With the large diversity of plants and flowers in the <a href="http://everydayurbangardener.com">garden</a> there is a great selection of insects. I don’t know what they are all called. Here is a yellow wasp hanging out on a kale leaf. </p> <p><img title="x500--25" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="x500--25" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vimhwzbRfw8/ValAGLNarJI/AAAAAAAAAk0/AYqTmwz5QX0/x500--253.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="422"></p> <p>An iridescent green fly. </p> <p><img title="x500--26" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="x500--26" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvBen_zpx6mTPKFt1eWrNH8YIFnivMCxDHvPoykdhk9WVcNUMOMUXXNJVylt6eOsysbt-mEpQsMSc74Qh248nHOkcP6mArdc5IeFoDbqyCm4p5d82iw9BXel39SpFWOvj8Ne4s_5rV/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="414"></p> <p>Little white moth with brown spots. </p> <p><img title="Bees on Hive" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Bees on Hive" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ1f_ng_uP-ARpn5YDPB-mqAAwGWWwjqM1Q4eQ7DJRQqSg3yKWU_omh8fAmfW0qtdpwea6lbmKQWn3LmhkHqR6WV7ZbGLSoVNSun8CrnLg-LE3eLnJUK73ynWNmOXKwWbSCcaOrUnh/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>Of course my <a href="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com/2014/05/honeybees.html">honeybees</a> in their top bar hive. </p> <p><img title="Flower" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Flower" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EZ8HLIpr_Bg/ValAHSKXNDI/AAAAAAAAAlM/So4_pEly_lo/x500-Flower-103.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="385"></p> <p>Tiny grasshopper on arugula flowers.</p> <p><img title="Milkweed" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Milkweed" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_KmCooekJhDAPmGThlmj6qRUYQIbVvTT_8pzN2gEo98iEbcB9I_oot8cEPDTpH1VmZWKQkoYvvJ-in629A7mqC6U7Zc8L35A0bklSv_dl3EPX4NNG8RyJ9hn5mCNJuyQ4VZrL4EmM/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="347"></p> <p>Black wasp enjoying the milkweed. </p> <p><img title="Milkweed" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Milkweed" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwljhXAJt2UU6RomOXmeMitDTwj11APMwJogcvoAER3PHz46DQzJ2hJ8ku3WYRTPxAumkVT6ECzXCKrwrp29mfDNuQrjOvzLCKHCsuxCtc81LU1vjlk21fvV2FmRIktt6IpFIj-_yd/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="363"></p> <p>Monarch butterfly also enjoying the milkweed. </p> <p><img title="Milkweed" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Milkweed" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrXCla3cFLwl-gHX7kHDlqGenpyJhuEb97cPNwEtkwHgybYp6b2qSwmib-SYBxnTDDlSktDMxQh8t0KF4OW8KBlsElIxAEd2qNiV4v_A43-diseLs-L6_lVsHk0A5SBg5K7FNo2INj/?imgmax=800" width="483" height="500"></p> <p>A little red bug. </p> <p><img title="Milkweed" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Milkweed" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0Ca8FaYpAu0/ValAJG-81DI/AAAAAAAAAls/WmXOHWsl6ao/x500-Milkweed-283.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="455"></p> <p>The monarch again.</p> <p><img title="Milkweed" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Milkweed" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisn-ESRUnhIeNH1t_oaiivXETtO40-a40I6OZKnMVxqSfHFAcKoV9bd-OXcwDHbZWZI4aF3prLfMYZ-O2KFnNBrX6yzPrGvi784Gszed0DDx-RuHL63UW4J66j9njc1fj5k3HX7BLo/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="355"></p> <p>There have been a few others, but they aren’t so nice to sit and pose like the above. There are a couple other butterflies and beetles running around. We will keep trying to make photos of them. </p> <p><a href="http://www.onegirltwocities.com">Laura</a> captured these photos with my camera, and I edited them. I think they turned out pretty great. </p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-65174892632824660742015-07-07T16:28:00.001-05:002015-07-07T17:24:24.741-05:00Mid Year Bee Hive Inspection<p><img title="Bees on Hive" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Bees on Hive" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tZkFGK4vlhY/VZxEU002ajI/AAAAAAAAAi8/n7cwTsUIYyg/x500-Bees-on-Hive-13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>I’ve had my new batch of bees since the beginning of May. Time to check on how they are doing inside the hive. I watch them from the outside regularly, so I know they are busy bees (ugh bad pun). </p> <p><img title="Bee Hive" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Bee Hive" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-d6rXp9ZWm_8/VZxEVbv1BOI/AAAAAAAAAjA/uuSwv9tQUrY/x500-Bee%252520Hive-6%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="333"></p> <p>I have a top bar hive I built last year in my backyard. It sits in a sunny spot since the bees like the sun. It is surrounded by milkweeds on one side, a <a href="http://everydayurbangardener.com">garden</a> bed on the other, and a fence on the remaining sides. </p> <p><img title="Bee Suit Hive Inspection" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Bee Suit Hive Inspection" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTcvPutpzAI0EL_LNjc3wB4ONkPISBdfwX5lO3z6Stx9tbgJsAeahLxAE8pVNthhSTFYHpVvO3u65lhyphenhyphenTeyu1AfqrSqM9-b-dOE76L-Qhs8ESc4WIHIg_5X7MU2xJdQk6shseU7m4J/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="333"></p> <p>The first step was to remove some of the weeds from the back side, and then take off the cover. I like working on the hive from the side opposite the entrance. This way, I am not in the way of the bees coming and going which I hope places less stress on them. Inside the cover, I found a small wasp’s nest starting. I removed it. The bees don’t need any competition so close to home. </p> <p><img title="Honeybee Hive Inspection" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Honeybee Hive Inspection" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQoFDQ6kf6F_enEzvtZNL5WMSh0M5612LdjVMG-VRoXd3FQZxbu79-zX_2vYFYGmUnnZVLKiLdod9pMbB0wCiPnrBYo2-MNOi5_M5i8uqDtxJHbCutHHG08-uQjTcWE3drbMq53wvv/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>Next, I carefully remove each bar one at a time and look at it. I use a sharp bread knife as my only tool. It comes in handy to unstick stuck bars and to cut the bridge comb. Bridge comb is some extra support bees sometimes add to the honeycomb by attaching it to the walls of the hive rather than to just the top bars. </p> <p><img title="Bee Suit Hive Inspection" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Bee Suit Hive Inspection" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcYTR3E5k2MletSdTxqI-1allDFEcUp9b0HaMXX8yRwueSyv8ETgKqJ_D30zsbh4Aj96cSl94jn59LgPfJ_z4LYytjArquRLFjl6EcjveaBnYqFy9T8MgQmoOm371wNQ7oGCNoniXF/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="453"></p> <p>I don’t usually use a smoker. I have one, but only used it once last year, and not at all this year. I have so far found, the top bar setup keeps the bees less stressed since I am only removing a small part of the hive, one bar at a time. The whole hive isn’t completely open, so they can keep working, hopefully feel safer, and less stressed. </p> <p><img title="Honeybee Hive Inspection" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Honeybee Hive Inspection" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQPP_qNetL7hreTHOyVMEVSQ7DgDFTa8zepIhskHMf-sg01E9vj9GOgbNsGov7cPcoCKT3Wqc3px0gExkg0CexBUtafA2af6IlP5ce_X3rZ1ZuqI0FrVN_s61Zau5BPTDtOJei7kYq/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>An example of a fully loaded bar. The bees drew the honeycomb as they wished and then filled it as they needed. Looks like mostly capped honey: the white stuff near the top is capped honey for long term storage.</p> <p><img title="Bee Suit Hive Inspection" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Bee Suit Hive Inspection" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zCu9CJuTH0M/VZxEXkkp-xI/AAAAAAAAAjo/caufuP4y-z0/x500-Bee-Suit-Hive-Inspection-123.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="381"></p> <p>Since the honeycomb is supported only on the top, it is important to keep the bar horizontal and the comb vertical to avoid any unnecessary breakage. It was warm out, so the comb was extra soft!</p> <p><img title="Honeybee Hive Inspection" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Honeybee Hive Inspection" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWG47MJs7Wqehxt0xlOprI0gtu_XCwQNc4Ny0oTh211vEM3uRG1XFFx_EeJ7sgbu8b-bUO64mMSjRaX7fJc4JEoS8No8JPbduuzD3eNLNvUOjstkSipqBuicvyNzNK0OPlFknkGtPm/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>Another fully loaded comb. </p> <p><img title="Bee Suit Hive Inspection" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Bee Suit Hive Inspection" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitCEwucOJU75zTxn9gOc0OGnBTVhteZNKxyVXAe6j633yqzQlFscOy0iYYDpLj9HDfDlne9jHdK_wPjmY-1EOvfpEofhEEBcZQ1zpGuH-u4Vs6nLbf3RGZh4lqIBroEpQDq1iGr8n-/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="334"></p> <p>I worked slowly and carefully looking at each bar for obvious signs of trouble like mites or disease. Basically stuff that doesn’t look right or a bar that doesn’t match the rest. </p> <p><img title="Honeybee Hive Inspection" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Honeybee Hive Inspection" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTKoH6cn2jak0Z7GPhFKTxDZLlQlmFZMzHV56clwDyUXPy3o1LDytIETF7ObBNfOvYffBXmVKcrYnFiyM5uhJ6WwlLh_BqPe0yCLsjigJxwgQf8-q1pzX5XN5Vj8nfomWub5OIlKPA/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="432"></p> <p>These bees started with the old honeycomb from last year’s failed hive which gave them a jump start on the season. They had ten empty bars of honeycomb to start, and have filled those and made another 10+ which were also filled. </p> <p><img title="Bee Suit Hive Inspection" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Bee Suit Hive Inspection" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2-rOcp7z6O3jxIQeiYdoC9MBPbwIGObU0fe7CZATbIYzdIWpRQHi64SLCZyhLB1PT7AUq3GDOcEEM1KuVqixTCFnkalTTWkSZ6OY0D6WRMDkX4mxOWYcYj2gzbiOcwMlZ42PKm2Jc/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="327"></p> <p>They have definitely been very busy. They seem much healthier and more productive than last years bees. I don’t plan on taking any of their honey; especially since my last hive starved to death over the winter. The honey is the bee’s food to get through tough times like winter or drought. I will check on them again soon. I am excited they seem to be doing well. </p> <p> </p> <p>Thanks to <a href="http://www.onegirltwocities.com">Laura</a> for taking the distant action shots. </p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-41163517902314343892015-07-06T21:54:00.001-05:002015-07-06T21:54:19.002-05:00Jostaberry, Cherries, and Currants<p><img title="Josta Berry" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Josta Berry" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BmgklDVWTdU/VZs_V36mMKI/AAAAAAAAAic/9c9TyTnzQ6I/x500-Josta%252520Berry-1%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="323"></p> <p>I was so excited to see my <a href="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com/2015/05/planting-jostaberry.html" target="_blank">Jostaberry</a> bush finally producing earlier this Spring. There was ONE berry on it. I have been watching it for what feels like months hoping it would ripen and I would get to taste my first jostaberry. I hoped the birds, squirrels, and rabbits would leave it alone. The bush had a tough Spring as the rabbits decided the leaves tasted good. It persevered.I finally got my berry. It was good. It tasted like a tart/sweet berry. Almost like a cherry meets a raspberry? I look forward to eating more next year! </p> <p><img title="Northstar Cherries and Currants" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Northstar Cherries and Currants" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi81omg2DJR8p9g884wA8YhxPSJ1EFOsixjIMpcYh3FANiNudXcbMqDb6NEcGnQ5LA3-c4TIiZwbij5MV5uhBiPtwDAE9TGyuoRuyGPzvr1EeEcEFsp0wLiWEHQDKVKpn4SL-8OfQAI/?imgmax=800" width="478" height="500"></p> <p>We harvested the last bowl of northstar cherries from the tree. They are so good. Nice and tart. I am amazed and grateful to get so many cherries from a tree I planted less than one year ago. </p> <p>We also picked the rest of the black and red currants. If you look carefully, they are hiding under the cherries in the picture. My friend liked the black currants best. After eating more, I think I like the red ones more. I think more samples will be needed to form a more complete opinion! </p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-7588632043833892502015-06-28T15:37:00.000-05:002015-06-28T15:37:00.171-05:00Garden Flowers, New Elderberry, and New Blueberries<p><img title="Cosmos Flower" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Cosmos Flower" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij7SmJswMETHttVUDJT8L8RJ6M3qsoOA8pA0PoW3koj5SPh8E-r7eAFjnK9iHv_tGk57-2CLBVGGJwP2qELpSCZ4hojyPb2zUTE72x4JaMJtNVbGXJf1tgwZ_71RKUABkuWSVK_jSz/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>More flowers in the <a href="http://everydayurbangardener.com">garden</a> are blooming. Above is a Cosmos. This is the first year I’ve grown them. I started them from seed and had a hard time getting them to germinate and grow. I was excited to see this one blooming today! </p> <p><img title="Orange Lily" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Orange Lily" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDnpVawnnXiSkV68pgyS-XTsSWL3l9d8QrVhbiY0N0bqhGVMOfoKdMhvir9dB5oREr4Kps34bAFpSZuncODhjqQq0fDLM13tzpZ0ZftZBl98NL32BAXQqIPgKuLDpKxVmm-fbdNquN/?imgmax=800" width="281" height="500"></p> <p>My orange Lilies are in full bloom now. There is a bed about twenty feet long and they start blooming from one end until the other. I really like the orange-red color they have. The tallest ones are over five feet tall. </p> <p><img title="White Clover" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="White Clover" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnG4zfncyAQnxSQzUg1Dce39XnVhRHRE7WReYb1XAzD6n05y3KpdMPmHUhvUuzNo4LQAO10GlPTXRVznKgEovPPUxarqsdGso4NszlfF5pOq_0wBvP76DLDvnw7y-1YUk2m5EaVq1E/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>A couple small patches of clover have been blooming for a while. I have been mowing around them, so the bees can enjoy them while they last. These are only a few inches tall. also bought some clover seeds for much taller purple clover. I haven’t planted them yet. </p> <p><img title="Ranch Elderberry" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Ranch Elderberry" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Bp39smKrWY4/VY24IyTaySI/AAAAAAAAAh4/4B5pEipeDw4/x500-Ranch%252520Elderberry-5%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>This is an Elderberry I recently planted. It started blooming just after I bought it. It is a “ranch” variety. It has two small suckers starting already. When they get bigger, I may move them to another part of the yard. </p> <p><img title="Pink Lemonade Blueberry" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Pink Lemonade Blueberry" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YfVcy6fgukg/VY24Jjh84dI/AAAAAAAAAh8/3kpsTMi_YCY/x500-Pink%252520Lemonade%252520Blueberry-4%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>Last but not least, this is a pink lemonade blueberry. It doesn’t have any flowers yet. I bought it to perhaps, finally get some blueberries. The other three different varieties I planted a few seasons ago are barely growing. I am starting to think I need to move them to another part of the yard. I tried giving them an organic soil acidifier last spring, but it hasn’t seemed to help. Perhaps a soil test is in order before I make any more changes. </p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-1442787044463856392015-06-26T11:06:00.001-05:002015-06-26T11:06:30.063-05:00Cherry Harvest!<p><img title="Cherries" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Cherries" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-madLlgXsuZU/VY14fHE1PgI/AAAAAAAAAhI/T_rjyNEphVo/x500-Cherries-1%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="330"></p> <p>I was really excited to see the Northstar Cherry tree I <a href="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com/2014/09/planting-fruit-trees.html">planted last fall</a> <a href="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com/2015/04/spring-flowersthe-edibles-are-blooming.html">blooming this spring</a>! Flowers are future fruit. The tree did not disappoint. We have been pulling off tart cherries all week. This was the harvest last night. </p> <p>I am still shocked that it has started to produce so fast. I was expecting to wait a year or three to get anything. This is a very happy and tasty surprise!</p> <p><img title="Cherries" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Cherries" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxUu2wM7HDs-wXNHUCQTYqHPUHlV8oKBzRhiuNclHeTYvz77gT-xNauWqf6kTodc2sn6Mu10Mfv5Dqjd6laxLWuvuPt_VOknC44kHsFEqGblzuRaqoITQRwMBha0iOWbvXYQON7_EU/?imgmax=800" width="281" height="500"></p> <p><strong></strong> </p> <p><strong>Related Posts:</strong></p> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com/2014/09/planting-fruit-trees.html">Planting Fruit Trees</a> (Planting September 2014)</li> <li><a href="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com/2015/04/spring-flowersthe-edibles-are-blooming.html">Spring Flowers–The Edibles are Blooming!</a> (Blooming April 2015)</li></ul> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-37808104247305867842015-06-05T14:46:00.001-05:002015-06-05T14:46:46.909-05:00Garden Update–June 5, 2015<p>The <a href="http://everydayurbangardener.com">garden</a> has been growing and growing with a lot of success. </p> <p><img title="Garden June" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Garden June" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC-04siMG58XrFyct_IwZZXj2tZrn2Y6ORBwf7Z1vqjGUYFKoLFMIhDAtq8Uiz2DYIeopfnqtlTYSGIUmpU66eFAppwYYgrXv4CHXHTOi6AuxWvuBRmJjgDxSXB-bgER-62bqXerDw/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>The above was taken today, and the below was taken just two weeks ago. Amazing the growth in such a short amount of time. You can see the sunchokes in the background really taking off. The cabbage and collards have been proving nice salads and now the cabbage is producing small heads. </p> <p><img title="Garden May" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Garden May" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglL4wZIX6fiMVGRoVYryJaGwOLu5YqNjsPWqSxWKwdiIflJ8_BJsH8Sl3QkP1c_BtOkB2v-_3SPiwHKVt3XjQegAF4XeS1VLmhYLlZRStWJZWzsOs5hUdSkYlA8LmrVRTCGchT8epf/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>A small harvest of honeyberries today. I have been enjoying small harvests most days for over a week now. Yum! I really appreciate getting to finally eat some since I planted them three seasons ago. I like them and look forward to more! They taste like a cross between a blueberry and a raspberry. </p> <p><img title="Honeyberry Harvest" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Honeyberry Harvest" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WpGWdaFrgUo/VXH8nAo4T-I/AAAAAAAAAgI/BODbYoogYKw/x500-Honeyberry%252520Harvest-2%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="402"></p> <p>My chives are blooming nicely. I am excited for this plant to spread a bit to add some more color and diversity to the yard. </p> <p><img title="Chives Blooming" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Chives Blooming" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-V9aULiH2dTw/VXH8nrBCeXI/AAAAAAAAAgU/oHu-Y7v9uhI/x500-Chives%252520Blooming-6%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="281" height="500"></p> <p>All the peonies are blooming now. Red, white, and pink. They look and smell nice. The ants are really enjoying crawling all over them. </p> <p><img title="Flowers Blooming" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Flowers Blooming" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-fPvdfj3qYDElo56jSnT7iQje80FinVfig-__LA_oGZxTMZpG832OfAjSLM1oP90Jg6kRuRYfpaU2eQydJ4v2bR9XPvVCLIgQ7Zyy0zQuPhAnBSGjJ4_zG2A38UVkfTf7P5ZqLl3/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>One set of the irises in the backyard is done and now this set is nearly done as well. They are really large flowers. Great to look at and completely surrounded by garlic chives. </p> <p><img title="Flowers Blooming" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Flowers Blooming" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjushbabnYlL_0pe4fPJEhCGU9iOorN2YRzHxitQRF8S5i9pQ4Iduy8yhJWMaR7B9PbBf6rJfZ-wEWKDb1q-4gzkMuW4h9G9ltvu6iktVHPg4GP_4ydy6vUl1jlmgajgyvYEyyAzuz0/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>The lilies in the front are starting to bloom as well. The petals will add some nice color to our salads. </p> <p><img title="Flowers Blooming" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Flowers Blooming" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EEB11CDmbv0/VXH8pd7IUyI/AAAAAAAAAgo/TOfuJXPh8vc/x500-Flowers%252520Blooming-7%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>Finally, the front yard has been hit pretty hard by a new rabbit population. I’ve had strawberries in the front for a few years now, but this is the first year they have been chewed down. I think it will severely hamper the harvest. I hope they can bounce back soon. The poor sunflowers are another story. They are just green sticks right now. The rabbits chewed off all the leaves. I started them nearly two months ago, and was really looking forward to the silly 12 foot tall plants. I have started some more seeds, but I am not sure they will have enough time to mature now. </p> <p>To address the furry pest problem, I have ordered some narcissus bulbs. The flowers will look great and they should keep the deer, rabbits, and squirrels away. I also planted some perennial onions in with some of the beds. I will move some garlic chives into the area as well. All three should do a nice job keeping the critters back and they are all perennial, so low maintenance. My backyard has a sturdy fence, so I haven’t had a lot of pest issues in the past. </p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-37013697047584026142015-05-22T10:51:00.001-05:002015-05-22T10:51:49.350-05:00Plants plants and more plants! Garden Update<p>I have been spending a lot of time this year trying to make my yard look nicer and to convert grass and weeds into something useful, <a href="http://everydaytastiness.com">tasty</a>, beautiful, or all three.</p> <p><img title="Raised Beds" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Raised Beds" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBzjBPrfXhHcBQiFhkre0nffJMLU_fLVD7mU-km_nMkfRXNArbc6Ip695wAt97awEkPH1CR3wtjLNxIQVIHpBl7HrAFrMird8ehvqy7WNT-ptmP5TpfhdawoK8Q6I82TpjZpj1VbQY/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>The raised beds in the backyard and full of life and starting to supply a small amount of food in the form of collards, cilantro, and garlic chives. </p> <p><img title="Planting Hostas" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting Hostas" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4rp2Pg_dhgY/VV9Qi8Wr6jI/AAAAAAAAAbw/8l05kukrEiU/x500-Planting-Hostas-73.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>The hostas I planted last year were finally seriously mulched and ringed with some free rocks from a friend’s house. I think they are looking really nice. I am glad they all came back. I can’t wait to see how they look at the end of the year all filled in. </p> <p><img title="Planting Mint" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting Mint" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD3IsL-OkGn98j2Ox7TJ2X3vHe4dum6ndSby56O9EWP7PJljEdR7p7iSFiY_FIY_VY3qr5FKSjdEFOVVNwsHzmgd0lsj15GyO7IitO21eyFI6vb5POxJTGSzdEjVXn_DiKxtdifSos/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>My friend Lisa gave me some mint. I planted it on the side yard. I made a rhizome barrier with part of an old piece of edging to keep it from spreading and taking over the entire yard. It was tempting not to put it in. Mowing the yard and smelling mint would be nice. I decided to keep it contained, so it doesn’t choke out the neighboring plants. I mulched them with some cut grass. </p> <p><img title="Clematis" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Clematis" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s_V1I250ba4/VV9QjiTdanI/AAAAAAAAAcA/isIhg097_t4/x500-Clematis-53.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="425"></p> <p>She also gave me a couple clematis. I am hoping they will grow up and cover up the fence. *fingers crossed*</p> <p><img title="Hostas and Lilys of the Valley" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Hostas and Lilys of the Valley" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrF3MkBhE46Bgp55mAe8l9Y4ukkHaAjZaZ8mWR0easQqKVNYydeFINy3cFDdmMUyroDlGlBzIuwJ6q52_8Vb6Ytq4gAXMJFqWO-9TXMxBRL3fcVRDf277D7nalAvUBk0Q9Szhq42vM/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>A new combination of hostas, lilies of the valley, and some catnip all mulched and edged with extra wood. </p> <p><img title="Kiwi and Chives" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Kiwi and Chives" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfujzXR72QCcgIUKAp0mNP2ZMVf0TUiV6IB0FVCOjdkahI-PE4tMVfleOix_1cviR4FIdXTwIikTU9GdCeXykveHa3fbpRMzsUece4f5LrxIXEF6WAav_KVOb_eRnRnqYLO3kZJBT2/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>I was happy to see my arctic kiwis coming back. I hope they take over the fence this year. They have been slow growing so far. I planted a chive plant in the middle to add some color in the mean time. The kiwis used to be in their own small beds, but I combined them into one big one. There is cardboard under the woodchips to help suppress weeds and grass. Sheet mulching FTW! </p> <p><img title="Planting Hostas" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting Hostas" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S0jDFnv5kQY/VV9Qk2AcsAI/AAAAAAAAAcY/5YfZOd5PaTQ/x500-Planting-Hostas-63.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>One of my hostas in the backyard was getting to big and blocking the new path. I cut it into ten pieces and spread it along one of the fences. I used some more logs and woodchips to make them look nicer. </p> <p>How is your <a href="http://everydayurbangardener.com">garden</a> doing?</p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-38758736834971533142015-05-11T12:02:00.000-05:002015-05-11T12:02:00.082-05:00Planting an American Hazelnut<p><img title="Planting a Hazelnut Bush" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Hazelnut Bush" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0OlmhXWqJEG1xYd-Bv6CWCXXstoUSHCicpbPlquQcOQgy4tGfdNL3wE2hUe-At89_PYlHUcGOJi2zXt4Dl0uWmATIMzQlyhWEoqlO_dcZD_pvIQBmwr6luGlaD0kFH4T6oKAjF7w/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>While browsing around the local plant store, I came across this American Hazelnut bush aka Corylus americana. I don’t remember seeing one there before. I am very excited to be able to have nuts in my yard from a medium sized bush. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Hazelnut Bush" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Hazelnut Bush" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN-02_flNbnmZB4MI0V4rbcRqXfa1qHVea32qYUNeIp6O62RyPo8Wnz5Q1ct66zmVqd35gopm5NxsUuJxnCpqXBurl3FwD4KNWh2q3hPLYsquNxBxvKIjX6Ki6kzmpi1lCpTrd9c8w/?imgmax=800" width="375" height="500"></p> <p>The american hazelnut grows 6-8 feet high and about 6-8 feet wide. It is hardy to –30F and good for USDA zones 4-9 which fits my zone 4 perfectly. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Hazelnut Bush" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Hazelnut Bush" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8umWEDNJg1g/VUqxtnfUeJI/AAAAAAAAAa8/fPzPxgMRNps/x500-Planting%252520a%252520Hazelnut%252520Bush-3%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="375" height="500"></p> <p>I dug quite a large hole about twice the size of the pot and then filled it with finished compost. I did not replace the soil I took out and filled it with finished compost. The soil in my front yard isn’t the greatest. I am hoping the compost will give the plant a good start. I also put a generous amount around the plant on the surface. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Hazelnut Bush" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Hazelnut Bush" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi58IWKhvDlC7F8jmezQEw7WcRy-YBbR3X6TjHj1mL8NGLQMT3rsgrqnJV-VKzNXLKxVlOdzBun6P1bd3ooA_DgbCfUXf0L7VopIL5QOILDrjYmu73gO5yLYSF-LqmS9lTiYykIC3mv/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>Next, I covered everything with two layers of cardboard to sheet mulch along with a heavy layer of wood chips. The cardboard will break down over time and add organic matter to the soil. Both will do an excellent job holding moisture and suppressing weeds. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Hazelnut Bush" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Hazelnut Bush" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ECmONK6IqzXBfGXsObKmeeCA8dyARWIMPp16ZXCpO2DfibXJXUxKbH3SydNngIyxUO-42xK_UPVLADxNjBpmJXtDGnApeL9FISwOCXwhPc0TqibFiI5M79CN3NAUf7eDKwIHOoVi/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>A good long slow watering later. The hazelnut is planted and hopefully happy. A week later and it is leafing out nicely. I am looking forward to watching it grow and of course eating some nuts!</p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-52874865329121890492015-05-09T12:06:00.000-05:002015-05-09T12:06:00.305-05:00Planting Berries<p>Along with the Serviceberry and Jostaberry, I have been on a perennial berry planting kick this past week or so. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Black Currant" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Black Currant" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqek6kfgnfMnfV1MuuU1SqMenUbdnLQ61rPBZ5-r55cgDF0cMWRoiTKStbtz7IQ4mqm3eGK7aZA8sXzA5Pa1lQXfLlYUwRi_SI0ruGcGk-VDRQv8Rugz5SanZ3rCCVaAJEY9R6qoer/?imgmax=800" width="375" height="500"></p> <p>I planted a Consort Black Currant aka Ribes nigrum ‘Consort’ </p> <p><img title="Planting a Black Currant" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Black Currant" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vpVFdul4NjA/VUqskP0TsfI/AAAAAAAAAZw/bdoNw8P-4Go/x500-Planting-a-Black-Currant-163.jpg?imgmax=800" width="375" height="500"></p> <p>A nice hardy fruit good down to –40F and USDA zones 3-7. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Black Currant" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Black Currant" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYYSgQsW1RfIYhyy3Ul133b8xu1WP0s_xOjM7UYtoosskVc1Fl9XRxjvvBjkZneEUEHCbEy5C7CdDL8ZDYuchD-ZLB4zflbGFurgvNSd7DfJTG_WPhOR8eJS0_rAyCwtfeCutAtYYH/?imgmax=800" width="375" height="500"></p> <p>On a whim, I bought a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boysenberry" target="_blank">boysenberry</a> at home depot in the bargain section. It appears I have planted a stick. I hope it grows vigorously like my raspberry which was also just a small stick when I planted it. A boysenberry is a cross between a raspberry, blackberry, dewberry, and a loganberry. I can’t wait to taste one. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Boysenberry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Boysenberry" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pHFziuMvvwY/VUqtyAMPIcI/AAAAAAAAAaA/OQre9syFIho/x500-Planting-a-Boysenberry-213.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>I planted it with a lot of finished compost and mulched it heavily with wood chips. I also made sure to plant it far away from my raspberries. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Gooseberry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Gooseberry" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRqN5ZmQwGKKRoCiSU1Fj3mdJ46FFZ8JvLKIcB3FXxFu-wYmzJt42_KywSUPlZ5FGaewg87ZFYUeFjTipoHofkpaNjRF5Dq-O_5F-YENYWuTySJuLB6j6VqPUr64b9eEHPOPgJMCI0/?imgmax=800" width="375" height="500"></p> <p>Next to the boysenberry at home depot was a gooseberry. It was cheap, so I bought one. To my surprise there was two plants in the box! Win! I planted them both with finished compost and lots of mulch. I am hopeful they will both grow.</p> <p><img title="Planting a Gooseberry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Gooseberry" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--U6T_BaAK0s/VUqtyyUuP2I/AAAAAAAAAaM/7RoLVGZo3T8/x500-Planting-a-Gooseberry-223.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-78216757093075829072015-05-08T12:02:00.000-05:002015-05-08T13:20:14.664-05:00Planting a Serviceberry<p><img title="Planting a Serviceberry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Serviceberry" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Zuzt23iXRps/VUqqauqYAVI/AAAAAAAAAYo/VVdPaHiJ6sA/x500-Planting%252520a%252520Serviceberry-9%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="375" height="500"></p> <p>Like the <a href="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com/2015/05/planting-jostaberry.html" target="_blank">Jostaberry</a> in my last post, I learned about the Serviceberry in my permaculture class. I bought the Regent Saskatoon Serviceberry aka Amelanchier alnifolia ‘Regent’ from EggPlant. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Serviceberry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Serviceberry" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pHCsWOjTLaQ/VUqqay-BOyI/AAAAAAAAAYs/0hKY-L1vCM0/x500-Planting%252520a%252520Serviceberry-11%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="375" height="500"></p> <p>The Serviceberry is also very hardy and good in USDA zones 2-7 and good down to –50F. It should have no trouble with Minnesota winters. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Serviceberry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Serviceberry" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AbJ_ZyFY5Is/VUqqbTPXjxI/AAAAAAAAAY0/jeaY6x7Vs54/x500-Planting%252520a%252520Serviceberry-12%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="375" height="500"></p> <p>I started by digging a large hole twice as big as the pot and filling it with finished compost. The soil in this part of the yard is very poor and compacted. I am hoping the finished compost will give the bush a good start. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Serviceberry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Serviceberry" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNSHS8eRstbESqbOkHPUP_vyhkGdh2uoDHFkGvMV3tCAzd4QEloYviEJw1d-4Z7TVPcwjWVXnCISuQrnfosENz5MwTFggIsETM8zHZE-5g01GZ8MPtCpOjtPJwdRpoQ26PWHwVbhvl/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>Filled it in with more finished compost and again around the plant to even the ground out. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Serviceberry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Serviceberry" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhid0nn6FxbVtdh3ZkBDdOLyscJLyN2JfLOkU5exNSMczDLZJt-YmhsGYenlEIpWkdoWkh5tNaCV-RpkT9TU7OI_eUwW2qQNIXSrwmNlJkvL7GKOVN73eCLwBl-cBT_UDcPwscAXV23/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>I sheet mulched with cardboard and a heavy layer of wood chip mulch. The mulch should do a nice job suppressing weeds and holding in the moisture. The cardboard will break down over time adding more organic matter to the soil. I finished up by giving it a long, deep drink of water. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Serviceberry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Serviceberry" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLbj-vqmj5RnYbE-TJ9GJ1_m3tHPmVThkfPmYhgxc8p2rT3_o_m3e9UjdR69V0gzoqADjjQcpE2Xqz0Nz30kNNk49og36mapcOGKtkEhir1qqyO3vlZBRuinUlmBkEFW3loTy0cwNF/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>The Serviceberry bloomed the week after I planted it, so I hope that means it is happy in my yard. </p> <p><img title="serviceberry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="serviceberry" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheRBRiNTdkJkhioKH3YIeVPTLelBBtBevo3IvAp6YAvETzeJm0hsSe8iGeV5Oadec2P9uYq7cbWo0bNBl15Xqj4sq13f86UhUobqPARxkI8t-M2Yz-dKel4c7SkHx9xv-niZrx_VLi/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-64341146028174197502015-05-07T12:02:00.000-05:002015-05-07T12:02:00.264-05:00Planting a Jostaberry<p><img title="Planting a Jostaberry" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Jostaberry" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3MRTfjB44c8/VUqoOq8_yuI/AAAAAAAAAXg/GwN4gzXxMzw/x500-Planting%252520a%252520Jostaberry-2%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="375" height="500"></p> <p>I’ve been wanting a Jostaberry aka Ribes x culverwelii since I heard about them in my permaculture class. I am a huge fan of edible perennials! When I saw it this spring at the local plant store, I couldn’t really resist. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Jostaberry" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Jostaberry" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Mu9NkTtNORA/VUqoPMBwiAI/AAAAAAAAAXo/PSxf3nKvo7Y/x500-Planting%252520a%252520Jostaberry-4%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="375" height="500"></p> <p>Jostaberry is a hardy plant good in USDA zones 3-8 and down to –40F! It should handle Minnesota winters without trouble. This particular plant will get about 4-6 feet tall and about 4 foot around. If I am lucky, it should fruit next year. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Jostaberry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Jostaberry" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLrNi_afAWnM58ssEbNOF0TNa0jV37qdOwmqHRmAJn64RxNvi46KOOT6lb-ZQgAJwpBKbyu5u6dUSTmPQI1nnbIqmFtuyO5AaLwLui6mdmToTc8mfPNve45XA4rHQClvjsxUbthwwT/?imgmax=800" width="375" height="500"></p> <p>The first step was to dig a big hole twice as large as the pot in a sunny spot. I then filled it with some finished compost. I put the plant in and then filled in the rest of the gaps with finished compost. I did not return the original soil since it is of pretty poor quality. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Jostaberry" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Jostaberry" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pGmRAmEQ1Ak/VUqoQbZtHjI/AAAAAAAAAX4/uIyRWaP-l54/x500-Planting%252520a%252520Jostaberry-1%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>I pushed down with my boot around the edges to make sure it was level and the air gaps were taken up. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Jostaberry" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Jostaberry" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH_3Q5ItinB7x5zJeyBpRQCQY5C0saQOe1KLvhZLQfZrYa1qDWAC-pJ8cr3fAseQ_MdH8g8SCQH4UIJn9j8Dmp17rWdtf4RDmLmAJ6XNydlsOXkEReL2BgOB4oDrqL9xmRhvLdPdp4/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>Next, I started to sheet mulch with some cardboard. This will help suppress the weeds and grass around the plant. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Jostaberry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Jostaberry" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLp9gHpcOg11uj9DP69nepOie7GmNN7hzVzA1yIus4xFtZlhpUNy1ZZX6zhlfdFKIwNrAtmO4Kr0BOZibtZfq7rpINkxiz7A5o5vkn3PE3d9uJuGJKnnejwM2shpceEWDlwqEG7CdS/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>I covered the cardboard with a thick layer of woodchip mulch. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Jostaberry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Jostaberry" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dyENVT8RmbM/VUqoSP-XR9I/AAAAAAAAAYQ/l6JiYth3w9o/x500-Planting-a-Jostaberry-73.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>A heavy, slow watering and the Jostaberry is ready for life in my front yard. </p> <p><img title="Planting a Jostaberry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting a Jostaberry" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ekOJz9Kog2_ZPqhaO5iL5eNOdMBpl0FdZ_tsCi330LesBcQD-2RkoUpDo4G4B6BQy8zsHuCfLNlaosFRx080HVwrTYgxKjVNBfVFvJhlqNldZIPcR1I3_N4yGydu3l0Mp0TTWasb/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p> </p> <p>Do you have any experience with Jostaberry? Leave me a comment below. </p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-35021938516597410062015-05-06T18:27:00.001-05:002015-05-06T18:27:24.429-05:002015 Art in Bloom at Minneapolis Institute of Arts<p><img title="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wKduw0KukO0/VUqjLyKtVdI/AAAAAAAAAVs/Pe2nxyh7ffI/x500-Art-in-Bloom-at-MIA-2015-17.jpg?imgmax=800" width="281" height="500"></p> <p>This past weekend was the Art in Bloom show at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts (MIA). <a href="http://www.onegirltwocities.com">Laura</a> had been before, but it was my first time. I was excited to see all the flowers. I liked the flowers coming out of the suspended faucet out front, and it set my expectations high.</p> <p><img title="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1A7C-JPR_zZ-lhKtAvcfmaElXsTyU_L43SrL89z1aF7lajSE2x2qB3tcSzieMCKQOC-B2d79X9kgiBwAgKUEJbn_ipKfn9r20-GrzcwGvESjkKdHV8cG0dSmdf7RHQbkNyjUr_gxB/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>We arrived before they opened and waited with a large crowd to enter. The event was free with artists creating art from flowers/plants after being inspired by the art in the museum. Some of the art looked like the pieces and in other cases it was related only by colors or texture. There were at least a hundred pieces. These are some of my favorites. </p> <p><img title="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0debLzV_c2MNO9myX3sgdlUjBd86LLSMmiCt6zZYr6_-a7y8R_Kt9hUWLLkUBTgRMJrWEWxhJ2_TIrubFWxSbyp9OB4Q2CENEOfPI6ylSROzpDE3YBJD_ntPDnk9luxAPtkXuo0rB/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="345"></p> <p>A rooster. </p> <p><img title="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n7ajyNmCsP8/VUqjNSvu4WI/AAAAAAAAAWA/WF5bCNwd_wE/x500-Art-in-Bloom-at-MIA-2015-53.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281">/</p> <p>A slice of birthday cake made from tiny little flowers. Very clever, and it looks really <a href="http://everydaytastiness.com">tasty</a>. </p> <p><img title="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXN3FmKSgAkJPAmFNxDRfCMDnEF60VnAM7IKxhrFo2_RfO1-JCFYg7eyo0duFf0UfFcjsp-fh8oPthifrAIZTdLrpkELFjmCUI9t5GStr3gV3G1kDdIFWUsVygVewSAARVW2Fk0gdR/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>I liked the colors and shapes in this one. </p> <p><img title="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxmDXDPxL3wH0zZTDWrJ9Wf2_UiJSQqzl9dzgOJtWmJu0waGmELp1fra-ih4E1kR7ayUN0-341jgGXHdfo829KKddekBadWECv4tXUD-o4ItZ9KTGh82Pzfy0b105Rv1PkKvHV1ciu/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>A fire hydrant for the puppy</p> <p><img title="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jd7zY0Sknn0/VUqjOv0ryAI/AAAAAAAAAWY/IQgR3eCRyRM/x500-Art-in-Bloom-at-MIA-2015-103.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>This one was really fun in the modern art section. I liked they put a tambourine on it like the original piece. </p> <p><img title="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5OU7PZSqtmsJZM7UWXdpepvnyM3bzZecT5qRr_e0rhoFwrmUtYAQoi_gmjvTf9E24cX0qmOiuIBjxuYOXlUbnfxjmzmBQIjDeXtLNNM4vTWSNASvXofA2JC6Mubr_YBC3d5mbu8uO/?imgmax=800" width="342" height="500"></p> <p>The Asian section had my favorites. I liked this shadowbox inspired by a large carved tablet. </p> <p><img title="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI7KUsJdqCArSuk9pAmuSAdR7v2jHkT6tPYx9S97LMSJBeq407cZ6xFMcuWv-86WY6XKw-E1mqLaKS6vd0yrCeqGf8acMbXGX5u92ODwZDAtZ4Ymy1VXk8DgrGyquL45IBYmaw3bBV/?imgmax=800" width="281" height="500"></p> <p>This Buddha was one of my favorites. The attention to detail was impressive from the little emblems on the belt to the texture of the clothes. </p> <p><img title="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-GEfPtLJqwBo/VUqjP4MFP0I/AAAAAAAAAWw/M2_l4YRqquQ/x500-Art-in-Bloom-at-MIA-2015-133.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="343"></p> <p>Four birds made of plants to look like the little metal ones in the case. They were well done. </p> <p><img title="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghseNFfR9cBsyXzdbQHeuENI8tSY0_mAJbgoKXGcIfXW-YWiL96Q3Cc6REDEc0KRwv7YbNg1NjUnBa_scpP3TtK9Fxgh-EzKwT6qi5NAXakR49VNmELWHLyq80S8IG9aKtgjypv_Hc/?imgmax=800" width="281" height="500"></p> <p>This horse was also one of my favorites. I likes the shape and colors. A fun piece. </p> <p><img title="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zNTQC-jybqI/VUqjRGAaSYI/AAAAAAAAAXE/XVilk0T0dZg/x500-Art-in-Bloom-at-MIA-2015-153.jpg?imgmax=800" width="281" height="500"></p> <p>This artist did a nice job copying the original mask. Again, great attention to detail. </p> <p><img title="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Art in Bloom at MIA 2015" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XTFOU2f95tE/VUqjRgFfg4I/AAAAAAAAAXM/zQ2k498MNA0/x500-Art-in-Bloom-at-MIA-2015-163.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>Finally, a shot of Laura with some GIANT lily’s. They were at least eight to ten inches across. </p> <p>We both had a fun time. Check out Laura’s blog: <a href="http://www.onegirltwocities.com/2015/05/06/minneapolis-institute-of-arts-art-in-bloom/" target="_blank">One Girl, Two Cities</a> for more of her thoughts on the event. </p> <p>Minneapolis Institute of Arts<br>2400 Third Avenue South<br>Minneapolis, MN 55404<br><a href="http://www.artsmia.org" target="_blank">www.artsmia.org</a></p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-32928851973621606872015-04-30T20:25:00.001-05:002015-04-30T20:30:34.126-05:00Spring Flowers–The Edibles are Blooming!<p><img title="hyacinth" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="hyacinth" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFrnCOWtlcVAOO-3bUa8hyBB4Jy16ysdPKeUf4edEIkvP1WA4y7zoDOgp1acheV3kZD7PIjmv-f1AYg11FqH5t_S-r7NPOXvBP12WDATtihvsn7hyphenhypheno3Vy03kgjJJpmWhlqFqXgeccU/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>I was excited to come home from work today and find a multitude of plants blooming that weren’t doing so yesterday. Spring is such a fun time because the plants are changing and growing so much! It is a joy to find new things emerging or blooming each day. </p> <p>Yea, ok, the above photo isn’t an edible perennial; it is the part of the bulb gardens I planted late last fall with a friend. The crocus already bloomed, and now we appear to be in hyacinth season. They are quite pretty. I love the strong purple color. I also planted some white ones, but those haven’t come up yet. On to the edibles!</p> <p><img title="cherry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="cherry" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZL2j2hluygU/VULV7z6A-hI/AAAAAAAAAUE/ek6OJAuOfZ0/x500-cherry-10%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>Truly the most exciting thing tonight was to see my northstar cherry tree blooming! I hope the bees do their thing and pollinate it. My new <a href="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com/2014/05/honeybees.html">honeybees</a> won’t be here for another week or two. </p> <p><img title="plum tree" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="plum tree" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ftzj8ba2Uno/VULV8B1ln3I/AAAAAAAAAUM/raOeeKUmZF8/x500-plum%252520tree-9%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>The pear tree next to the cherry also started blooming today which is amazing since it has almost no leaves. It only had a few blossoms where the cherry has at least a hundred. </p> <p><img title="josta berry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="josta berry" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ChIH9Ns4Ev4/VULV8vh6giI/AAAAAAAAAUU/ulrXpVCSXTo/x500-josta%252520berry-8%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>The next surprise is the jostaberry peeking out a few little flowers. Exciting! </p> <p><img title="black currant" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="black currant" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpA046Tt96abpmnjz8q0GMV8InW4DM_V6lG-Ha7H-I2P2zFAeJVqkPw2_F7xkqIbpZjxWhVZx2UROqWOkojLZykx23VPjdYjaaVU4TktRsDQHs-REI1NUBJcUSYSx1fQtVt2yeNCW-/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>The new black currant I planted is also starting to bloom. </p> <p><img title="choke berry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="choke berry" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIU1Ogdz7Uj-SfB1YgELcNYdI5Y4IyFquLFA06pa7MkcZxJ4zDrwNdLFvYhmYa8fpDog91IwOl6oeJ4VzweZf9Sxm-KcGoK1vJLJUeBVEgfk_EbIOp3ycSlO9fC2bKCA2qKu1u9Df1/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>The chokeberries have flower buds, but no flowers yet. Soon. </p> <p><img title="sand cherry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="sand cherry" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaKCLVkRtdPzEs_TmfEo_djhfUeaDmVDeLDqNKpXPOIAcx1_5QN_NSm77L3eqBFMTLxEaIoAaXj42jD1x-HV9TttNoR3a1PQS1itx_HtEDXCH3NywiHwtzFEw6NDq-Ys-N4inyHD5D/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>The little sand cherries also have a couple buds. </p> <p><img title="serviceberry" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="serviceberry" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ2aE7mMd-0Yf9Ql0TiYyZRbTiu-CeWHM3LrZGapdaxhHQHLZcUrWXkI-uOAQca9lvVrNDhIAJQVDRf4SAbWfZMw-r7xTQJr_rx-0BuP8a8QjA2_ESRPKaO4Lc1HKJdNR_dpruA2Wv/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>The serviceberry I planted last weekend is also blooming. It’s not quite a full bloom, it is quite pretty covered in white buds. </p> <p><img title="siberian bugloss" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="siberian bugloss" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY4QFHkFmgCvCpZmE42LQPZN_ZI1Dp3Mxq4WXmAO4ACeL-1wahQZwJPb_PySogiFL5CoxxkoKCUGuXYIvygI1a6I3xkHj-2Q8KIJ9WdJ9E9IZzj-qEbBSf-NA4BSUwF3SIsbc_SOjH/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>While not an edible, this siberian bugloss is blooming with the pretty little blue flowers. </p> <p><img title="tulip" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="tulip" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o9z6rjFFqhc/VULV-wQfhPI/AAAAAAAAAVE/Gvz2WIySfy4/x500-tulip-1%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>I have dozens of tulips, but only this one is blooming so far. It great to look at during the day when it opens up all the way. </p> <p><img title="sunchoke " style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="sunchoke " src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dr0M7uTyPXI/VULV_SufG3I/AAAAAAAAAVM/H7tNYNewS7w/x500-sunchoke%252520-2%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>Ok, so this isn’t a flower, and it’s kinda blurry, but it’s one of the <a href="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com/2015/04/garden-update_22.html">new sunchokes</a> I planted not even two weeks ago! The honeyberries are also still blooming. I’m having a lot of fun each day wandering around the yard looking at all the changes. </p> <p>What’s blooming in your yard?</p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-56797600050077467922015-04-28T14:45:00.001-05:002015-04-28T14:45:50.106-05:00INHABIT–New Permaculture Documentary<div id="yekra-player" deployment="90894088nnj7nw" rel="387" name="YekraPlayer" sizing="640x360"><br>This film looks really good, and I plan on watching it soon. It’s only $5 to rent. Check out the link below if the player above doesn’t work. Here is the excerpt from the website: <p deployment="90894088nnj7nw" rel="387" name="YekraPlayer" sizing="640x360"><a href="http://ykr.be/23ijcmhyf6">INHABIT</a></p> <blockquote> <p>“Humanity is more than ever threatened by its own actions; we hear a lot about the need to minimize footprints and to reduce our impact. But what if our footprints were beneficial? What if we could meet human needs while increasing the health and well-being of our planet? This is the premise behind permaculture: a design process based on the replication of patterns found in nature. <span class="caps">INHABIT</span> explores the many environmental issues facing us today and examines solutions that are being applied using the ecological design lens of permaculture. Focused mostly on the Northeastern and Midwestern regions of the United States, Inhabit provides an intimate look at permaculture peoples and practices ranging from rural, suburban, and urban landscapes.”</p></blockquote></ div <> <p><script src="https://www.yekra.com/javascripts/embed.js"> </script>Check out <a href="http://ykr.be/23ijcmhyf6">INHABIT</a> here: <a title="http://ykr.be/23ijcmhyf6" href="http://ykr.be/23ijcmhyf6">http://ykr.be/23ijcmhyf6</a></p></div> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-48259051747095041432015-04-26T21:19:00.001-05:002015-04-26T21:19:32.362-05:00New Plants!<img title="New Plants!" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="New Plants!" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYxtxiGfnQSc0qGbBW-xZ3PtBGAVBVv8qSyeLt5ZSEtCOZFPUPJcYo0I99n1xhon3ZoE_QnEFX_fDB7LB3adyUb-Ll8UCjWu7gi_iJvwqumoh8koLY7bNnHaZ1eeT-SrT3dd3ObsQv/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"> <p>Today, I bought some new plants for the <a href="http://everydayurbangardener.com">garden</a>/yard. It was such a beautiful spring day, I thought I should put some new plants into the ground. </p> <p>My first stop was Home Depot. I had noticed they had more edible perennials this year than previous years. I hoped to get some cheap stuff. I found they had some nice blueberries two for $10. I really wanted them until I saw the little “protected by neonicotinoids” I put them back. Yuck! Neonicotinoids are a new class of insecticide built into the plants. It has been implicated in honeybee deaths. I moved on. I found some gooseberries, boysenberry, and purple asparagus instead.</p> <p>Next stop was Egg|Plant, a local homesteading store, with a good selection of edible perennials. I have had my eye on several items for a few weeks now. I <a href="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com/2014/09/planting-chokeberry-bushes.html">bought a lot of plants from them last year as well</a>. </p> <p>This trip I bought a hazelnut bush, josta berry, service berry, and a black currant. I can’t wait to get them all in the ground and producing food! </p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-71411060256632743522015-04-25T09:00:00.000-05:002015-04-26T20:43:00.832-05:00Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens in Rockford, IL<p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1zfytCbE78w/VTqUT6UgDcI/AAAAAAAAAP8/BB6p1xVBsw0/500x-93.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>A few weeks ago while on our <a href="http://www.everydaytastiness.com/2015/04/vegan-road-trip-day-3.html" target="_blank">roadtrip</a>, we had some time to kill before <a href="http://www.everydaytastiness.com/2015/04/pig-minds-brewingmachesney-park-il.html" target="_blank">Pig Mind’s Brewery</a> opened, so we looked up what was available in Rockford, IL. I found out about them at the hotel lobby brochure. We were interested. I really enjoy conservatories. They are the closest I can get to the tropics without getting a plane ticket. I love how they smell fresh and clean; the humid, heavy air is also a treat. </p> <a name='more'></a> <p>The Nicholas conservatory is 11,000 square feet of indoor tropical flora & sculpture. They also have a landscaped lagoon with fountains and patio outside. We were a bit early in the year, so everything was still brown. We spent our time inside. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0rcnpRzjcsXmrhnaM2XDuwPvQGqUCDz2ZA_TAII5o5bAhVw2IsgtY2iqaeKKx_esTXZbpH2FIkaDdn5xI7vahqp8nA8eDWpuSIMsKUJVNcF6d1-_Rrmasjjg8BQFe3x60s-sfScko/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>Upon arrival, we were excited to see they had a butterfly exhibit running. The butterflies will be there from March 28 to May 17, 2015. The Nicholas entrance fee is $6 which is triple what we pay at the Como Conservatory in Minnesota which is at least triple the size of the one in Rockford. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rxpDXHP8jeA/VTqUU5IGttI/AAAAAAAAAQM/SRGMg2sEAmw/500x-113.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>Upon entering, a strong floral scent flooded our noses. Everything was green and really lush. I liked the sound of running water from the water features. Just inside was a large wall of orchids. They were very colorful and they were for sale. <a href="http://www.onegirltwocities.com">Laura</a> posed for a photo in front of the orchid wall. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BHxT0E4TXcY/VTqUVYQovQI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/IeVMVS1fspg/500x-123.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>Here are a couple of my favorites. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdidAx5MJIz-1RYj6GbNUMdDWeN329TKQVqAwFL47oq094PgND4iHY0j8evrrMxzNzepN1hDVYefKL1lyKL13kT-rw2-cwI8MjMK9Y7oVNack1ZaZIgap7dtvN9llRfa3NeMQARmMh/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>I like the Nicholas conservatory has a height dimension to it. There were some stairs to climb to a small overlook area. I enjoyed the view of the plants from above. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnvIYyohVEmrdqXW2Eqm3JutyLBbh3HiJ20t6ZUG29MBssVaNtYMMLFNQUjEjZGoBFqPAy_SqfXtg3XB06CBcPwgFCe3VtzrAMTDJ_mBmGSckGoq3fD_eFQfJgwk-bUFp6UIO2l9-x/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>The small landing also led outside to the green roof. I was happy to see the green roof. It looked like it was covered with sedums. Green roofs are a great way to control rain water runoff and reduce the buildings carbon footprint. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTHHhI3vrF3bR2TlwA5gq2S8Z_AXiejuuJL8GsYzbtql2AEsYsGshUtBSe_cZIJbsVIRDy4Mc-R_uGqkBmIIytPxnAv_r0pmmJ4NebCGJyP6929aFVRvGuCkhsbYfhzohD3CYfd7os/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>I was also happy to see a small beehive in the corner of the roof. I hope their bees overwintered better than mine. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0aezMo3gXRZkmwzf1ecxzII3Oras3R8rROw15qIULtbswybct49cvNiKVI5-7lJfmEfVBsmYm6TF4OxDfb56HDduiXuOTGVzb6WGnchkoAT5_t04ENCgWVralcoiic9WBALZ8r58C/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>This Indian Clock Vine aka Thunbergia mysorensis from India was a vine a couple dozen feet long. We were both really impressed with the flowers. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizazG40f2hCMAjB7zZJMjiFef2QLp8xLrQqBj5uDLBEHKk-OUYxoSyMl8YmtENRQOpBorJ0YYM999tXRGh566uibdIjc-aRmER11jV7gp_MDNAOYYHt9e0L4gZFEfmrHBseVq-JQ-r/?imgmax=800" width="375" height="500"></p> <p>I don’t remember what this flower is, but I liked looking at it. It smelled nice as well. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CdYS7Fn5KuA/VTqUYIcbuEI/AAAAAAAAARA/jwbkiZobEWo/500x-253.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-V8uK1zrVFDk/VTqUYyau_GI/AAAAAAAAARM/L8X-3xR6LdI/500x-263.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>Above: Dwarf Sugar Palm aka Arenga engleri from Taiwan</p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MoC8AvYlc_w/VTqUZClf7zI/AAAAAAAAARQ/lx7XM1j_VpI/500x-283.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>A view of the far end back towards the entrance. I liked their water feature. It was enjoyable to listen to as well as watching the fish inside. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4F7orQQGY2BWBP-Am4uRaattj7ZSkC7cpLJvZ9QUP58lHuvqplCxZqTx4a6hrbFq1VAgsZ39sqFGIYDRZlEWIZfn42y9IaBDLULYzifhKyru0wk01zqzhSg-l_P5p54cNSqY1G5RT/?imgmax=800" width="375" height="500"></p> <p>I llke this Lobster Claw aka Heliconia orthotricha from Central and South America. Bright and vibrant. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLaZB8taMZBUQToLcR1WIP8x41MVBc5Z0DFlwV_4JR62ASbR2xWUmG4OSL2Kv4ByHDlYU4CNp-n0ty6V9ZaE649KPRO_Guec2abV_rJIOu3_1ktJhsjWQxKBK1Hag7GUodUpr_Bb1g/?imgmax=800" width="375" height="500"></p> <p>Some tiny flowers whose name I have also forgotten now. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-r-m2rZRNfO8/VTqUaQlI-mI/AAAAAAAAARo/co_E7Q8Z6pQ/500x-323.jpg?imgmax=800" width="375" height="500"></p> <p>Cocao tree! </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-is6DF-RMiZw/VTqUayM3tUI/AAAAAAAAARw/ls-HweRcBi0/500x-333.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>After spending some time meandering through the conservatory, it was time to check out the butterfly house. There was a short line to get inside. They are trying to limit the number of people, so the butterflies don’t get damaged. The staff person told us they frequently get stepped on! </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6dpQRNFlA4XkD5ntlU-9N70QZuVx2_KmUoPzcAzhQGwrm4r5UhYD44f3vONzLaQXWy652NwCgucauFis9Bl-fhvJV6uyT9KhS_3td-QZ0UBelAzeMmlJ42oeOnqIVjdvIE3TZcfL5/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>These are some of my favorites. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKeY11NkgWE6hCTFy9dxkt4DWhAnbxt5iXj4FVAUfbMFlzhUF4Ts571FLfoAc1q3vaakvkfePns8BY59B2P6oM5qpp1Ogef3xOhwIpGPtDgNol5BBUFJmSllOCByNb9DrKxowaxv2k/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtB0vjzhnCkhaO9IDnKKhr0kWDvDt93-84FvP_mahfXOHHCQrnvz98bpdiIBHpHhxAsRudmwFA86WK99qUYZGjWma9qjxnCzgHh3MRWclKielFf5T_uDMknfBmrXWZUoPs-sgI_bIH/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>I liked watching this guy feed on the rotten bananas. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-I4PtB_1_EVg/VTqUcc9RMeI/AAAAAAAAASQ/y0qwsP_mFLo/500x-393.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>They liked to congregate in the corners. The exhibit is completely enclosed in a metal cage. We were told it was a requirement of the USDA to prevent the spread of disease and they had some scary fines if a butterfly escapes. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitXjZq6ZZYGTrJektuqMmP8An_r1vj0-SW86r1Zx-NcTE-SoE4mNkZWgwvjbcsfrusyc1csRngde6irJyoKz6NzUGThxorrXp7zEb8Xm6giKgYj394_xpF2JMf30gtjeZknI-Dmc4S/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qCvqAWkzH6I/VTqUdSIpYSI/AAAAAAAAASk/YiT1CQouCbQ/500x-453.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZEIWJKZ3u5sVez9aN7h3GUzUtUEHMJRGqElXzdBKfP3AiFTTOQFHpCZu2EQIY4aN-BBvIspXrd-kq3s71bEHMl3_Xc7ecQ5rB-Yl93RB8RbsN015iWFtA8dVhxDxkrB3aEOQpsHTz/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="399"></p> <p>There was a handy poster in the corner to help identify the butterflies on display. I didn’t notice it until we were almost done. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsiA-pniIyg5DAYc804kXN888zlPkaEajoWdVbNJ6fsNxUr0QQFSjNo4oEUQK3lHRbhMi_D5Swh96rq5W4cvJAqF42L-AuT34y9QKDFxlTqWSNoh8yRocgQ1sLrMrQoTF0dqWQEOFK/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>Laura posing with a butterfly </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EFf2LfW4YcM/VTqUek-mMjI/AAAAAAAAAS8/OVdDNfKMYR4/500x-503.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>After the butterfly house we visited the chrysalis room to see if we could spot some butterflies emerging from their cocoons. It was stunning to see all the different shapes and sizes. I am also amazed that a caterpillar creates a cocoon and after a few weeks emerges as something so different. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oYDnkzrstmU/VTqUfpNIe3I/AAAAAAAAATA/q4-DNQCG50A/500x-513.jpg?imgmax=800" width="375" height="500"></p> <p>We were lucky to see one that had just finished crawling out. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcx3OLRhseE6ml_Gxs4pfPJZvmQKJnNZ0ZQ_4POd1ywKc-OfaUTy-WFGFyv5HgFgKmIuGL1Faz7jCPOEsYvCkC66C1G8N4m8bVBOczPWf1pHszWjsF16lKMF15ySDpwiD_RatMK2lV/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>We enjoyed our time at the conservatory. Later in the year the outside area will look really beautiful. If you are in the area and like plants as much as I do, spend some time to check out the Nicholas Conservatory. </p> <p><img title="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydaytastiness.com" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--nBFNg1vxlI/VTqUgSeloiI/AAAAAAAAATU/BWvF1ncTUS8/500x-533.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens<br>1354 N 2nd St, Rockford, IL 61107<br>815-987-8858<br><a href="http://www.nicholasconservatory.com">www.nicholasconservatory.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p>Check out Laura’s review of the gardens here: <a href="http://www.onegirltwocities.com/2015/04/12/road-trip-nicholas-conservatory-and-gardens/">Road Trip: Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens</a></p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-20844304217165958242015-04-22T19:13:00.001-05:002015-04-22T19:13:06.306-05:00Garden Update<p><img title="planting sunchokes" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="planting sunchokes" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKUr5v_4ooyrbD5Gcq5Tnp-Rkjn-IaVp-BI-5Evln6w5eHeNfEIjDBL48O2eVd4RLJcj9iR0hMUaT-EOwCWVcNNjp58xyYsFC4cPhBpCeXUaauEAp_ghYF4Hfdr7v2VjSqgxRsbBTB/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>The sunchokes I ordered online and planted a few posts ago didn’t seem to be viable. I pulled them out and they were soggy. I bought some new ones from a local source. This time I actually got the tubers I was expecting instead of the plant crowns. </p> <p><img title="planting sunchokes" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="planting sunchokes" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYgwZciXe-MJhjgr2kg4w5KCkVCq-uyldWb8ntiIg6iKGThdk6NfzMM7iTw7IWvTQ5D_G5XbUXDi7ukhGf0voAUTs7onwbHITk4CRGGaNdO8aoWicct00Fy9-ijJd40f2DvxPC9MlG/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>The plan was to buy 1lb for $8. When I got to the house to buy them, the looked at my bucket and offered me 2lbs for $10. Deal! We had a nice time chatting about plants and permaculture too. I was very jealous of his well developed yard and <a href="http://everydayurbangardener.com">garden</a>. He had over 25 fruit trees and many garden beds. </p> <p><img title="planting sunchokes" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="planting sunchokes" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hAut9PI7Lp8/VTg5BtnQKgI/AAAAAAAAAO0/ndWxCnTgC2U/x500-planting-sunchokes-73.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>One of the sunchokes planted into my new raised beds. </p> <p><img title="plants" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="plants" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh77HHRM6OT4eEH0KRglLzXIa28nmhgXp4P_7X8pmAfb-6nmxhdJrpM86Zw2_H3avjjGQIthAi_SoKhyG6e-HkUNqmuE-4NAZaxMj1uh1p7M_4GWQVHxuQwpRy8fpxFTFOusTTUBurO/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>Since it has slowly been getting warmer, I’ve been bringing some of my house plants and seedling outside to toughen them up and get them ready to live outside during the summer. In the photo above from the right, have the pineapple plant I started a while back. In the middle is my banana tree which badly needs to be repotted, and my three-way citrus tree on the left which also needs to be replanted. It had two small flower blooms on it right now. I hope a friendly bee stops by and pollinates it. </p> <p><img title="sedum seedlings" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="sedum seedlings" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-olPG1qEfYIU/VTg5CsyuIqI/AAAAAAAAAPE/xFZp2a5NnpU/x500-sedum-seedlings-43.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>These are the sedums I started late last fall from cuttings. They also need to be repotted and then planted somewhere in the yard. I’m excited they are so easy to propagate. </p> <p><img title="seed starting" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="seed starting" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P8aV_h4I3R0/VTg5C6X866I/AAAAAAAAAPM/T52AiC4A-SU/x500-seed-starting-13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>With <a href="http://www.onegirltwocities.com">Laura</a>’s help, I started about 60 more soil blocks. About half the ones I previously started failed. I think they failed because I was being overly miserly putting one seed into each one. The germination rates seemed low for some seeds. The second is some neglect with watering while we were out of town. I will try harder with this new bunch. We put at least two seeds in each block this time. </p> <p><img title="Strawberry Seedlings" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Strawberry Seedlings" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sU9Km1Vn9T0/VTg5DVXUv6I/AAAAAAAAAPU/NodHek25xdY/x500-Strawberry-Seedlings-23.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>A successful soil block with a tiny strawberry seedling. </p> <p><img title="Strawberry Seedlings" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Strawberry Seedlings" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifUtFM0tV0lp2DXlLQ1P5pQj0NA7xeAyQ7MwCZr_jIDIDG47XQ37XcJe5g0Fuv60-pmkLwOvXRXNh1pbN-skC-rD3G7uD1S8RsAdtvmyfOkowthhZOB4IG5xFfNeqYqU3ZR7n3omlQ/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>A bigger strawberry seedling I started very late last fall in a yogurt container as an experiment. It worked! Time to get it outside to flourish. </p> <p><img title="Strawberry Seedlings" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Strawberry Seedlings" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UdZSPr-DUXY/VTg5EChT94I/AAAAAAAAAPo/rgYdyEnfbfk/x500-Strawberry-Seedlings-57.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="375"></p> <p>Another strawberry propagation experiment above which went very well. They are even blooming and trying to grow berries. I should get it into the ground to really get growing. </p> <p>How is your garden coming along? Successes? Failures?</p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-36457213356689565922015-04-19T10:35:00.001-05:002015-04-19T10:37:55.119-05:00Honeyberries are Blooming<p><img title="Honeyberry Blooms" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Honeyberry Blooms" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nVL3bohBrAA/VTPLIXNZQjI/AAAAAAAAAOM/4ihOX7kRy7A/x500-Honeyberry%252520Blooms-1-2%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="500" height="293"></p> <p>I am excited to see that my Honeyberry bushes are in full bloom right now! The thought of getting some of the fruit later this year is very exciting. I have only ever had one berry in my entire life. There was one small berry on the plant when I bought it. I planted it two years ago in the summer. Last year, we had such a messy spring with a very late, heavy snow fall which destroyed a lot of the flowers and buds. The plants struggled to get a second start. This spring is looking good! </p> <p>Honeyberries are a native of Siberia. They are cold hardy down to –40F. The berries are shaped like a blackberry, but the skin is solid more like a blueberry. The flavor is somewhere in between the two if I remember right. It has been two years. I hope to be able to report on harvesting berries later this year. </p> <p>Hopefully, the native pollinators, like bumblebees, are hard at work. My <a href="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com/2014/05/honeybees.html">honeybees</a> are officially dead; they appear to have starved through the winter. I have a new package on order and they should be in here in a couple weeks. </p> <p><img title="Honeyberry Blooms" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Honeyberry Blooms" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLz59PVGEZvztIJnGfG0CoPBsKtGROdEWxI_XZoNP9e6DW3auDUO1zp3nW6UFPPBsFheYnoOwx1QxtYGdKPTGqH4mgMlIgwb59u5OdCzAZ7x5LrFpv-6Z2kH7vWTl7tvAjLdgQo540/?imgmax=800" width="494" height="500"></p> Everyday Urban Gardenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02920849002586945062noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-62347486127070874752015-04-15T07:04:00.000-05:002015-04-15T07:04:00.310-05:00Garden Update<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOeZLzhXmVpU4I07trrBLa-0vASq0-ZZE_1EwR5cQZhoeoo9Z0WeUawwfC1yx4YDDCNdiTpYpAVnq-WXi8mWbSBg_mXz0g_xI_-W6Krqxt_sMNC5kx-6958t2oJARrfWSHK7vBTqzm63f2/s1600-h/500x-2%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCaakhpyR9_qHzrt-_JU868uv2tAw7Z5qZviDVnPJGnAtq7QiGI0mdg9ekj1ArxG4f055ZRzAYuhicdO9bFHHWZKcok12JKtBbrTJWP76dEoaIoGU2D8mkw2txSyYOdrwy4HoM-tiz2iF3/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></a></p> <p>The days are getting warmer and longer. Things are growing and starting to bloom in the garden! The crocus I planted with a friend last fall are starting to pop up and bloom. I am enjoying looking at them. There are yellow and white flowers. They are so small and delicate. We made three different bulb beds and planted them with dozens of bulbs and several different kinds. I’m excited to see what will appear next. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3GYniGzvibru6om5uGrGWdUsByBlZth3bbJPseQohjLREcC-W8KZuWlMqwrLJvpWh7XjwPgF5ZN4CreEgh1oFzxQyKV0rEU4Wxl_Ik7mCusfSG_l51WfkgYwdQ48iNtTK4pkhP6aPCF-e/s1600-h/500x-1%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGqZWJMudlhPVSQopK7KuMilI1UawgEtrj38tDDNj6wkUUZgFJrHi0kWi84hRUF4Kkc88d1u6zbnWS1Yu5Y5kcpt5bXDchPmr7EuPKj0HPNg2k1YnNytoceNUaFion-q8RC5U74hbzQHkA/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></a></p> <p>Just a few feet away the rhubarb is starting to peak out from underneath the mulch. I’m excited to see it appear. I am hoping for a good harvest this year. Last year’s Spring was such a mess it really made the plants struggle. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtpQ1v2pmDvjY4uSbeNM0zlHciLnAP8JVe69u80KqUGns31bslp-4MPbSJQOTdksAba2EeLuN9E5WuMcuYjEQSNlFOlS8bHopjbNRepdZvXNioI2dbGrQD12MO1zsoOd28MrKewHJneVhF/s1600-h/500x-34.jpg"><img title="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh74_5zOWXlpeIgfcYsJFipwecaueWPSyWkUJSqb3BnEsOOAoEZEgP1VWKrYsqzdRRohl6w7YSCIv5ouZfUcACbS0nNUbjTFngnkqiTGuRbZ0d32Wda54keOg_rKcv1Cz73WICWtNu4KxEm/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="288"></a></p> <p>Finally some purple cabbage has graduated from the seedling area in the basement to life outside. I hope it enjoys its new raised bed home full of finished compost. The darker cabbage is great as kraut, and I’m guessing it would be good as kimchee too. We will have to experiment. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoQZwZopfUDqIpUkPlC-xbw0AsKxoqXSPE8JboI8KXlYri-l1nNiUfIQhPvc5RulS7-KhJ5EQIwnLZGLNGh1OogGzOXErRwbVVUNXZ76XsV8qGixdPCgAsvVenqC001iMH6NPTQYkD-WP5/s1600-h/500x-4%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyggQ4XGLlNmV8VyYcz9y6N7hCdWBOXZXLajluJjRjXUSGuiZUbVarW5bktvhvoxpVfgJwRLBBf3xIYNwkp3Amx6Q4_vcgj7QVcm6VrNpHW0nqWdBHgXI3GQEZW0-WZRDWlzXZFFYWN3LL/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></a></p> <p>Next to the cabbage, I planted some kale, cilantro, cosmos, and collards. When it gets a bit warmer I will plant some basil and a couple more flowers. Mixing the plants up helps avoid a pest plague from taking over. Each plant attracts different insects and diseases; they should be able to work together to keep the pest problems at a reasonable level. </p> <p>How is your garden doing?</p> Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06606446271603142230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-72463291191452036692015-04-13T14:40:00.000-05:002015-04-13T14:40:00.513-05:00Planting Sunchokes aka Jerusalem Artichokes<p><img title="Planting Sunchokes" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting Sunchokes" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ds8zSgvheoKGjUb9N1Xgg_MK8uSr6okoQxNexgClSEG987YmTG7xZwGTtHkDC6IjTzS0gXYQsOtEqdl1zvPXAKwmMOy00cX3hhHepLwtTOTL0tkzllSZ3DelY8NPXyva6iEx1DeaCtkR/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></p> <p>I recently purchased some Sunchokes also known as Jerusalem Artichokes. I first had them a few years ago when I was a CSA member. They came in early spring along with some parsnips. The recipe suggested making a hash out of them. I really enjoyed eating them. I’m not sure why I didn’t think to plant some myself. Well, that is all changing this year. </p> <p>I was inspired after watching a gardening video over the winter of a guy in Chicago showing how he grew them. His got almost 13 feet high! He harvested dozens and dozens of sunchokes. They grow as a perennial with an edible tuber similar to a potato. I love growing perennials, so I bought some. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDKdTWPKOjRfTFsddruJQvIWkVlit6uYzH4CrmAWXRzNTM1oPlo0gTk2kaGBvMAX1BncwLhyphenhyphenChQEXzyM-ZxyMTjQJC_UARzovb4mKk2sOT2DfQYZlir3wG4GggmSPGKSz0wLaotpNFEfet/s1600-h/500x-3%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="Planting Sunchokes" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting Sunchokes" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRRAfK6QcRrGGmkJl1jNBg5xTgKje3OwylqepuKzTyLUtLxzIMwKSyusj0p_vPKPnqxdrqRlnXgkaAZOQYwEopKbBacHSM3Oshw7cFRkx6_DtUKhlIgbyfnBxeZZHOAXsyV5_TDarHzHyf/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></a></p> <p>I have a sunny spot picked out and a fresh new bed full of finish compost for them to grow in. I ordered three pounds and ended up with four plants shown below. I was expecting tubers, so I’m a tad confused. A couple of them rotted while waiting in a paper bag in the garage. I hope these are viable. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMjP55a6bP0sopUoo05C_J3rrjZD4cIge-Uo7aeVPLJF59GaHnEFfCwHduBTN1PtAFXE4WBPL9tFN5MZ8S0RWi7Nl5_awCx3qzkQod-UOO_fHA2g3Mm2eY4JdA9EiesgO_grhfiEDAT92n/s1600-h/500x-4%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Planting Sunchokes" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting Sunchokes" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiry72YHyZJcGY0WwzbWaQ8XQg_LB91Y0iLKsMwFzu1WyLcv-otKMT9vhVDU6r-E2CIIM_r6Gx5UkfWbFb9Ecpk18Ztss-ukMmu-kNoMkx-JwHJu6GVfmN3JuWEVjF23mHHfE5cK963qTeE/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></a></p> <p>To give them the best spot possible, I planted them in the sunniest spot of the bed along with a handful of finished worm castings (below). I left a couple worms and their cocoons in the castings, so they could help populate the new bed. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHG67SpOVUZuUGlJj6Fg6VO9KaWDXieXSIxuAU2nduGCm6_fGeVZnu_x-0IiiukE07NM9AYDEUebcughyphenhyphen6c164S0cLbkhU2Z8M2TcXtjilIlCHj8AjeOBt2NNLL8pFzCb5pMd9E5LhnOQN/s1600-h/500x-2%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Planting Sunchokes" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting Sunchokes" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCzTjr8cODWmfW3KTbqRYIqxJhPI0QLzwUKtK__cT_zJrU6pfoLbHm_jKIrZbUaqZsjjQwq86TvQPK8YAUX3JdaqcIBu0eanZTg13Elvo-DKhAG0KHjqfwVLTuUMvFaC43OmYqoRJFo9Ak/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></a></p> <p>There wasn’t planting instructions with these like I have seen for the tubers. I just put what appeared to be the root side down and covered them with some dirt after putting them in the hole with the worm castings. I hope they will start to grow soon. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJkVa22ln8qneFZLFwWuQrFAsXEYhUtR7WaPmhBIZzxN1FPToBqAD3q8KcpMomp8Q6ZQYue9J02oI3ftGM_z0cxOfxDKE7TiCqL1aZUwFjMCi2F5XS5RM80kSjAqxkFHUT3g2OogNMplSe/s1600-h/500x-6%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Planting Sunchokes" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Planting Sunchokes" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzF661UUb1sSKfG2mos7y_tSKXJNlsOE71s11C_F1ESF2ebQUo-Qli1D9W4UZdD34QKAvp7bVGptUsHEUxkP99lUhyqRhZpf5hzrmkgyQ7vCRsJaSXOvW5kiu3ad_-PQeSFuJ6mBttWcX/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></a></p> <p>The finished compost should make it easy for the plants to grow tubers and make harvesting easy since the soil is so loose. Once they start growing, I plan to mulch them with some wood chips. Wish me luck for a good harvest!</p> <p>Do you have any experience with Jerusalem Artichokes?</p> Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06606446271603142230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-18306456757705950252015-04-11T12:59:00.000-05:002015-04-11T12:59:00.464-05:00Getting Free Woodchips<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlXbYRpRbKrGJZsJRjiDXbjT-lvHAh-9-xCZZNxVJ3yVtUmxNTFc-AN-9T3JnB5uFriklmTe8tYql2I3XFtELNqiQMXlYAMJDnhqHDqNG6yKHvr4qZPHJBKOx1Z4jHqts5eSqhcDCYZvM/s1600-h/500x-24.jpg"><img title="Getting Woodchips" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Getting Woodchips" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFj53L2hYska_D9HE7XPK5rYKEw_XpVGEMduTJekZWBY2iBtu2kpcBO-N2sPqt-iYdo7z5VwUSi9AieL0A3ayUUyk01YCiwSMLJz_9_NH2rxJeXqkZm5qPE75kIXCAEHuxAeG2rzWCJqmJ/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="332"></a></p> <p>The same place I get <a href="http://www.everydayurbangardener.com/2015/04/getting-free-compost.html">free compost</a> from also has free wood chips. I have been hauling them home by the bucket load several times a week. The buckets work great because they are easy to haul around the yard to where they need to be. Filling them is also very easy. I typically walk up the pile and use the fork to just push the chips into the bucket. Each one takes about 10 seconds to fill. Much faster than scooping into a trailer. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKZf5tYOrpNjm6UEK_TpLMBoiXZRN6AU480FKeLDJOtCaqJ3LXs4TKJtfYLwiO0Vr-z87KUK57h-WnhSg-IYkWVFSS0egJVpXn6mFy8ctkbOIFiqqoqNpSbNeCsiv8PEM8LutbTlfTXldB/s1600-h/500x-34.jpg"><img title="Getting Woodchips" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Getting Woodchips" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXN2Nzzcs-mzTf3vOsHf8apDIyNK4eFiD0aF2SAFRsii3z_u7V4T2_f-lOHo7_I2CwWL9lkjaAiTei_8gOcyOaMrJJRDjZU-ezQQ1hB6HnZZtRjxAQHdkIyBZNpRTOWG3BTMdZIjSI37Gh/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></a></p> <p>I have two uses planned for the wood chips. The first is to replace the paths in my garden. I put some new cardboard down and then the wood chips on top. The cardboard should prevent weeds from growing up under the wood chips for a while. It is starting to look nice in the backyard. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJAUMyPH1pxqf_g7T42vBTgSaGX0p_m55uUFH4S0EPt5NutK_n_Ppr3uO9DSXPQHs00nbmS-4Yqc7S98pAkQpZYKpcBhMtb9Cbqgp5FfBcdpexlrRf1xUqS0CCRLuZIAkFNixEDZybQ-M5/s1600-h/500x-1%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Getting Woodchips" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Getting Woodchips" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUu9Kn0bSEKfjDhsxjqPKDXhbnPAkiI_DenleGxcIsNXVfGDSPj8fZUeYQno4ynqnJgTDo6WDSJzWtRmjUoBvgk4PoLaStSjl2OPHSzQslsjEFlNnW9PZuo5p9mZ35h396Ros_MHsGp2i0/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="332"></a></p> <p>The second use is mulch. I re-mulched most of my flower beds, fruit trees, and bushes. I will also mulch the raised beds in the photo above once the plants are in and a bit more mature. The mulch really cuts down on the amount of water I need to use to keep my plants alive since the wood acts as little sponges. They also do a great job suppressing weeds. A little work now hopefully means I will have less to do later. </p> <p>I am also thinking of experimenting with composting the wood chips with used coffee grounds to make my own hot compost pile. </p> <p>Do you use wood chips in your garden?</p> Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06606446271603142230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5487795593528400541.post-39751912812125293852015-04-09T12:31:00.001-05:002015-04-09T12:31:41.230-05:00Getting Free Compost<p><img title="Getting Compost" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Getting Compost" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzzlFSsmyIvRpw5hYLjj0GEKd6vWoN7afjJOFAlFGc5-C10nWBST5E7YQhT1EndFwUDWZkFs45IRTduR_843___-IhJITzPcWck_WIohWUK78h77nQIcdLSeRHFeGrTO7OgOwVUmAlvxSD/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="405"></p> <p>Since the municipal compost site opened two weeks ago, I have made several trips to collect the free finished compost. I have built some new raised beds and want to fill it with nutrient rich compost. The price is right as well since the local big box stores are about a dollar for a 40lb bag of compost. </p> <p>I have my own compost piles in the backyard, but I am not able to produce as much as I need to complete the bed build outs right now. It is a short drive to the compost site, so I’m not using much gas. I am trying to keep it as efficient as possible by filling up nearly every space possible including the trunk, passenger seat, and back seat. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNj2gjgS81EzygnNclYIgVkshhT8eOU-aqeuDh92AnXwzeq8g_7OwzrGb01xvs9GA6hFfq9ewFZ_lO9rWIDE5y1dxbIkkaWu9PBjb5SQ2-TDiifjkTPflkNHrJ21XfDoVi9bbNqOoSR0pq/s1600-h/500x-2%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Getting Compost" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Getting Compost" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL56eR1J1vYKy4GXqjAgPacQbASRiK0LV5o27jV7LMnirBOA4woF-_5Ff-qhTu7h4wpWr08sVBhUfljL5-raNXexbLXtjr0819DzsKoCKAwpc2KakjdlqgP9_I6SDBtZsd-wM9vIc4lNiu/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></a></p> <p>Hauling it in buckets seems to work really nice right now for several reasons. I think a trailer would be faster, but it would be harder to deal with once I get it home. The free compost is decent quality, but it needs to be screened first. I am using 1/2” hardware cloth to screen mine. There are twigs, rocks, plastic, and other things that don’t compost well mixed in. I even found swimming goggles and a large log last week!</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMqjC6n3FlTdcwhvKsz1ULMbBTmlohKWSaXMqiFFy1GIFvCUgxLji-AI9bI2_VdHq93P8XiMX-_5kAAZPHmCmDpjWTD4Pj9Adysz0SF8xJihylBcxkPCpyLiyvmdBikKREApKFZ_KuOSxR/s1600-h/500x-3%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img title="Getting Compost" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Getting Compost" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA3ZMVnJK9yi9ZuM34_dUR4ohsgBo8os220N-CRhvLIYsXa2aZmAD2DpXcyq9-y351OkLT4ejwS38SBW-v5iEbVUh461m-g-WHfKovYp_oVJeDR7KmkR70hZNkerhHp7I5EavNAJ-iyttF/?imgmax=800" width="281" height="500"></a></p> <p>The buckets make it easy to screen and to haul around the yard once I get home. I’ve filled up my first raised bed, and am now working on my second. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs7m7g-UlEd49sX_ocVv3j9X7WeZcCvUSz6lV_JVXGDJMR6Js-uAeSwRKzQyW6I5OjBJrC3sSmE9c0MoZE9ilj6CpjBnDiV4ed2uz3Mjbibr_sheXmfm5GG06K124xsNgqaHoJFfVdKoGS/s1600-h/500x-4%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Getting Compost" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Getting Compost" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJelHvIoWgr9Do2YPqokAP4J7V0ewIcfFLhbFPzNTH7b7Du7jdAJsJafiWi8-Gb59H49RjnEyv-8zWZ35pdaPqAqdvSEITJve2XLyPYs7RDLeKVcdZ1qQSJFgLu-7zgN8w_1F6oXXmXsi6/?imgmax=800" width="500" height="281"></a></p> <p>Check with your local city or county to see if they have finished compost available for pickup. </p> Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06606446271603142230noreply@blogger.com0