Ellijay GA Cabin In The Mountains Blog

Fall Foliage & Some Things Thrive

2011-10-20T12:06:00.000-04:00

Like the Nasturtiums that never do much of anything until the cooler weather arrives or so it seems. In previous years I just gave up on them in the middle of the summer.

Black Eyed Susan Vines are putting out nicely. This is Spanish Eyes.

Yellow colored Marigolds that grow about 20 inches in height finally bushed out along drive. Zinnias in background.

Mexican sunflowers (background) found a better place this year. However they did get knocked back quite a bit from the heavy rains of about a month ago. Very fragile with their hollow stems. Coleus gradually fading with a Pineapple Sage taking the stage this time of the year.

Mums planted from two years ago, moved two times to this spot under shade. All the Asters bought at fire sale prices last fall for one dollar failed to make it one year. Well, some are hanging in here and there but the plant size is 80% less. Scraggly. Not worth a picture.

Some fall foliage...

More Late Summer Pictures

2011-09-24T09:39:00.000-04:00

I never took a picture from this angle, but it does give a good overall idea of the back yard size looking from the edge of the woods. Morning mist after a few days rain. Sun peaking through.

From the other side of the woods

Black Eyed Susan vine mixed in with some Marigolds and Begonia nearby...

Moon flowers still going strong but nearing the end. It's been five weeks of steady blooms.

Poldka Dot plant with another BES vine (late seeder, no blooms yet)

A newer smallish garden for Coleus. They faded quite a bit when put into 4-6 hours sun.

Annual Salvia love this spot. It is very rich in organic stuff though.

Finally some fall bulbs. Gladiolus bicolor acidanthera.

Just started blooming a week ago. One by one.

E Cigs - Nine Days Without A Smoke

2011-09-18T08:16:00.000-04:00

And it wasn't that hard at all. It's these e-cigs that I learned about on a TV infomercial. I think it was about the Blu brand which I've learned does have it's drawbacks mainly with battery power. E Cigs work by way of water vapor or mist with flavors and that all important ingredient of nicotine.

Even though you can order tobacco flavors it seems few actually stick to them; and they don't really taste like a real butt. Some taste like pipe tobacco. I've tried five flavors with Keoke Coffee (mild coffee taste) seeming to be the winner at this time. Strength: 18 mg, whatever that means. For hard core smokers that use Camel and the likes one can opt for 24 or 36 mg. I tried a test vial of 24 mg and it knocked me back a bit.

It started at 7PM Friday September 9. I've been cutting down on those older analogs (that's what they call real cigarettes in e cig circles) since April of 2010. Down to 10, 8 back to 12 and finally at six per day, while only smoking 1/3 of a butt at a time. This past summer it got worse as far as breathing capabilities. I thought I had COPD or worse. I thought I was done, a goner.

I couldn't push the lawnmower without taking two breaks, walk up part of my driveway without five breaks. Nine days later it's a complete reversal. I zipped through the lawn with ease and actually pushed a wheel barrel up the drive with one break. I have energy and don't dread doing yard work anymore.

More important I can breathe again. Yea, it sounds all preachy, but will it last? For me it has to which will make it work. The real benefit to this and not all the other gimmicks is the sensation of "vaping." Although different flavors offer different results it's just a matter of forgetting that real cigarette feeling...if that makes any sense. I'll admit I'm not there yet, but minor urges pass me by each day.

Yea, I've been "dragging" on coffee all throughout this short entry. If you're interested I would suggest the TRex e cig and buy the additional power thingie that you can plug into a PC. While they claim the batteries last awhile(300 charges), I don't trust it. How safe is nicotine? Who really knows? Could be similar to caffeine. With some e cigs you can ween yourself to 0 mg. One thing is clear, I don't choke and gag every morning.

Good message board for more information.

More Final Garden Pics

2011-09-12T18:31:00.000-04:00

I'm not expecting any changes from this point for the rest of the year. That moon flower has been a tough one to photograph, mainly because the leaves are shiny so there's always a glare off them. This one taken after the big rains early last week with dear ole' momma.

Another view taken this morning along with the Morning Glories that have fully leafed out. Notice Cleome bush in front. I had dozens of these things coming up earlier this year and decided to keep five of them. Cut back about five times and they've become a bush. Petunias growing wild in driveway as well. Reseeded from last year.

More Petunias below. White silverish ones from seed...took forever. I had them scattered everywhere but this time of year it gets too shady in most areas so most were moved into this spot that catches more than six hours sun daily. I'm planning on tiering them up the drive next summer. Picture taken this evening. Cardinal flower vine getting full (fence post)...some flowers...too tiny.

Along the side of the cabin. Annual Lantana that was rescued for $ 1.50 back in July. Three plants in pot. Two types of potato vine, a struggling Clematis but it did have a bloom last week. Lot's of different colored impatiens, Red salvia, and some stupid African Daisies that only bloomed for one week.

Let's see what else? A hodgepodge of a mess here...Begonias did very well in part sun this year. Never made it in the shade in previous years. Coleus here and there, Angelonia, one sun Impatiens that never really found a real home. Butter Daisies (yellow) reseeded from last year. They're real late comers. Didn't pop through the ground until mid July.

Blue star creeper planted two months ago filling out nicely. They seem to crave this spot. I've already taken plugs and spread them to other locations.

Another pic shows a Black Eyed Susan Vine that failed to climb all over this lattice. Not sure why this one didn't get off the ground like others. Lottsa Cleomes in back ground...the "Cleome jungle" Others, double Impatiens, Swedish ivy, creeping Jen, variegated Vinca vine, and Coleus.

Another hodgepodge. Leftovers more like it.Many rooted New Guinea Impatiens beginning to get full. Several rooted Petunias as well.

Caladium Pictures

2011-09-08T18:27:00.000-04:00

These were taken in late July, or just about when the Caladiums peaked in color. Since, they've faded and some are beginning to lose their former luster. I don't know why, but none of these were fertilized, same with all my Hostas. They'd probably keep chugging along had I actually fertilized them.

The original Caladium garden back in the spring..

Full color...a bit bright though...

Maybe a closer look. The white ones are either White Christmas or Candium while the reds in the foreground are...lost the tag. Kind of ugly ruffled type. Same for the ones in the middle...lost tag. Drat.

Here's my favorite growing about 15 inches high. I think they're Fannie Munson.

Those guys are tucked away in the Hosta garden started last spring. The supposed star of the show did not fare well this year. The lime colored Hosta in the center. Named Gold Standard. Apparently this one creeps along for a few years then takes off or so the consensus says. Hopefully next year it will fill in.

Another favorite and yes the tag has mysteriously disappeared...it's an unknown.

Pink Beauty...

A few other areas...

John Peed and Aaron (white)

Florida Cardinal

Snap Dragons - Good & Bad

2011-08-22T17:59:00.000-04:00

I had a whole area set aside for these from seed in the spring of 2010, but they never really took off. They just sat there all straggly looking until last November when I yanked them. Could have been the location along the driveway, I do not know. Anything up the drive seems to struggle without attention.

Anyway, here are some that were purchased last fall from Lowes in the small six pack variety. These things can grow and bloom in freezing and very hot temperatures. Two whites and one red here. I have the hardest time remembering the name of this plant. Maybe it will come to me before the end of this entry.

Snap Dragons!!!

There must be different varieties. Here's a taller one (below) that was moved this spring. Originally planted in the spring of 2010 (one croaked) when it was purchased as a larger plant. It blooms now and then but not like the smaller variety that reaches 10-12 inches. It also falls all over the place and needs staking. Pain, really.

These two show three reds planted together. All shown here were dead headed completely July 28. I'll have to consider sticking more in the ground this fall. I wonder if these guys will make it through another winter?

It's An Official Surrender

2011-08-14T12:24:00.000-04:00

...at least for this season. Can't grow much here with less than four inches of rain since May 26. About the only things that do hang in are the mountain laurel, creeping phlox (dormant) and that other thing (background) that blooms in September or so.

Others that can't make much of a life up here are day lilies (but they fade anyway this time of year), Salvia Sage, some type of Black Eyed Susan, Coneflowers, and a few Rose of Sharon. (top to bottom below) The latter obtained last year at a Daves Garden get together.

Life is hard along the fence line up the driveway as well. Asters from last year struggling (8 of ten survivors but much smaller), but I have lugged water up here a half dozen times since May 26. Marigolds never did too well, same with Cosmos. Silly spider Zinnias are alive. Don't bother trying these things. Flowers are ridiculously small and they just sprawl on the ground. Good soil after I worked it, but too darn dry.

Vines and Other Climbers

2011-08-09T18:45:00.000-04:00

Some sneak peaks at other happenings this summer are the many vines I have growing here and there. The question is undoubtedly, when will they bloom in profusion or am I dreaming? Here's the biggest project that takes about 10 minutes a day. Training these morning glories to climb in the right direction so I can get full coverage. They were growing heavily on the right side in basically one three foot by ten feet area (from bottom) two weeks ago. By redirecting some runners it should fill out within two weeks.

They're definitely climbers! And would probably go to the rooftop if given something to climb on. Maybe next year I'll run a more organized system with fishing line. The new addition from last year is created by using small eye/screw hooks with string run back and forth. The next pic was taken August 5 of last year. Considerable difference in growth but plenty of volunteer seeds popped through the soil this year.

Oodles of Black Eyed Susan vine here this year but slow to bloom except one I have hanging on the porch. Here's an interesting view taken from the ladder. Note Moon flowers are all over the porch railing, some black potato vine in with some Creeping Jenny and those lousy Nasturtiums (container) that won't do it around here.

Plant Failures - Or Maybe They Need Time?

2011-08-05T18:11:00.000-04:00

Before I show the many successes in early to mid September how about some time for the wanna bees around here? Probably mentioned in the past, the Columbines are real friggin slow to do anything. The one below was sowed in May of 2010...maybe it was June. Oh well. Most of the others are barely making it. Maybe next spring I will be surprised with this perennial? It did have some nice growth earlier this summer but no sign of flowing.

Hollyhocks. I have two in this area that were started in March of 2010. Give or take a month. Barely hanging in about two inches high...

Blanket Flowers! Started in late March this year. Most were on the porch until a few weeks ago, but a few since June. Hardly any growth. Barely three inches if they can stand on their own. Maybe next year?

Lupine and Painted Daisy...started about the same time.

Not much of a failure but I may as well take note of the climbing hydrangea next to the creek. No flowers this year but has been growing steadily all spring and summer. Probably now at 12-15 feet height.

Pikes Family Nursery - A Good Alternative

2011-07-27T18:14:00.001-04:00

The company had been mentioned several times at Dave's Garden so I investigated more by making two visits. One in Cumming and the other in Woodstock, Georgia about two weeks ago. After all I'm finding it's getting boring seeing the same old thing at Lowes and Home Depot.

Great landscaping out front! Only if I had a pic of the right side front entrance that was loaded with Angelonia.

Anyway some things the other places don't carry that I found interesting.

Lysimachia golden globes - similar to creeping Jenny but with yellow flowers in mid summer.
White star creeper
Snow in summer
Duranta Aurea

Getting late into the season. Not as many small annuals are around, but I managed to get sucked into some actual house plants. No, they won't be going into the house! The looked unique so I thought why not, but I didn't really know what I was buying.

Some names...

Alternanthera Dentata
Acalypha - Tiki Peach Whirl
Rex Begonia
Swedish Ivy

Pikes is a great alternative but only one drawback; good descriptions of plants are lacking. Sure I could have pulled out that Iphone and handled some internet searches but it's so damned slow. I don't understand the popularity really. Prices a bit higher or on par with the big box stores in the items I was looking at. Plenty of selection and a vast indoor area (not shown) for other accessories, soil etc.

Here are some previews of what's been going on around here. Naturally the Impatiens are thriving like crazy..

...and so is the creeping Jenny. So much that it can be found in about six locations now. Hey the lawn is actually hanging in there too. Overall, great differences from this time last year.

Coleus Update

2011-07-19T18:07:00.000-04:00

Yessir, those ugly ducklings. Or at least that was my view two years ago. Growing from seed takes forever by the most recent results. I did transfer a few into larger containers (below) but I don't see how that's going to make any difference. The roots aren't any longer than one inch if that.

So, rather than wait until the first frost to see what they really look like, I've picked a few here and there from local garden centers and rooted them. These were done about six weeks ago. Probably only three inches high and 3-4 leaves then...doing well in about four hours afternoon sun...hot too, but they grow better than being in the shade. Ten inches high or thereabouts but bushing out.

Looking at other offspring from the same mother plant these were just planted out after spending the same amount of time in deep shade. One (rear) was actually rooting in another location that had high shade. Quite a difference in color and size.

More from the garden shops. Cost? About 50 cents each when considering the cost of the momma plant. Multiplied several times over year after year, the cost will be pennies. I plan to take samples of all to Florida this winter and root for speedier growing next spring.

Multiplying Plants Through Rooting

2011-07-05T12:38:00.000-04:00

Considering the local Lowes doesn't get what I want these days; namely different colored annuals I thought I'd try my hand at propagating through rooting. Easy peasy the message boards say. Yea, some are some are not. Easy ones Impatiens and Coleus. Tough ones or ones I haven't figured yet include Vinca and Angelonia (that happen to go grow extremely well here)

So here's the progress..

One reason for doing so many Impatiens is I'd like to have this place flush with color come this fall. I mean everywhere. So far approximately 150 plants rooted. All seem to be working well. And I always wanted to try New Guinea Impatiens but didn't want to pay the steep price. So I found two plants discounted at WalMart and managed to get 26 rooted.. They're doing well too.

Not so successful is an attempt at a climbing hydrangea first rooted May 26. Three tried and three failed. Oh well, the first attempt. I know what I did wrong and plenty of time to get some good plants by winter. Give it 4-5 years and I'll have several climbing on the trees around here. Never did get around to pics but this is the second try. They have their own private greenhouse in the woods.

Reference to procedure

Fairly easy to get things rolling around here where there's moisture. I have several very dry areas that are troublesome. Remember the Oxalis from last spring? Only a few came back. What an expensive failure. I've been meaning to see if the "corns" or seeds are still in the ground and try another location.

Stepping Stones Made From Soil

2011-06-24T17:32:00.000-04:00

I think I have the right idea but it didn't come out too well. First sculpt a mold in the hardened soil where the mix will be dumped. I figured a two inch depth would give it some good stability.

Why not ad some reinforcement? Chances are this idea may fail without the right strength mud mix so why not use up all that chicken wire I have downstairs?

My attempt at looking to alter the final mix color didn't fare too well here. I thought I'd try some ash from the fireplace. It toned down the clay color a tad, but you can see... Lowes actually sells a powdered product made by Quikcrete that would cost about a dollar I (guess) for each block or stone. On to more thinking, I recall Adobe brick is sometimes made with dung (animal poop) so why not pay a visit to the farm for a load? I'm thinking it would be economical and may work to get a darker slate like charcoal color. Cost would probably come down to 12 cents per block or stone.

Not much luck in trying to achieve a slate like textured surface so I settled for using crumpled aluminum foil. Going to have to work on this idea. Realistically I did not spend much time on this aspect.

Looks kind of tacky eh? No contrast with the surrounding soil. 4 parts clay soil, one sand, one ash, 1 1/2 cement.

New Project - Making Bricks

2011-06-22T17:51:00.000-04:00

A TV program last night detailing how the great Wall of China was built got me to thinking. I have oodles of dirt around here and a shortage of rocks except for what's in the creek but they're too large and irregular. Sure would be nice if I could lift some of those out as they could create some nice scenery.

In any event, on to making bricks and blocks after creating a mold from a 2 x 4. The secret is getting the right mix. The first test is using one shovel full of sand, six dirt and one 1/2 shovel of cement. As you can see one has already cracked (I did try to move them because of rain) and it is not bonding at all. Perhaps take it up to 20% cement? I can think of all sorts of ideas with this method including finishing off a walkway area below. Simply dig out some molds in the dirt, fill, and replicate a stone look. Maybe saran wrap would work providing a texture?

Not crazy about the clay color though. Going to have to find a way to tone the color more to a grayish natural stone much like the walkways around here. There must be some natural element around here to get the desired look. Ground up wood bark, leaves? Trying not to spend money on this project except for the cement.

Better Sights This Year - Blooms

2011-06-07T18:11:00.000-04:00

I've captured most of them; the highlights of each plant growing around the property. Let's go through the collection. You've seen this one before but it always captures attention each May. Dianthus. These are basically annuals that survive near the warmth of the house.

Japanese Viburnum or snowball- April 18. Three are scattered from last Mays planting. Only one bloomed this year. Currently about four feet in height. Expected 8 foot by 8 foot at maturity.

Pansies along the north side of driveway. April 25.

More...

Tulips in barrels April 11. Not sure if this one has been shown before...

Knockout Roses along drive May 9...

Azaleas above wall with Creeping Jenny..June 5

The lone Astilbe in with some Caladiums that have about three more weeks to reach full height. Too bad the Astibes will be gone by then...

Day Lilies. First one came out quite dark. Planted last spring, first time bloomer...

Others, some loaded with buds and finally the Calla Lilies...

Hopefully Hosta pics soon once the Caladiums are out in full force

Don't Worry. You Won't Kill It

2011-05-30T18:23:00.001-04:00

That was the popular consensus when it came to trimming back this fine Clematis vine. Only time will tell. It looked great in late April....

But once I got the scissors to it...another story.

And about those Coleus. I may just get lucky and have them reach decent size when the first frost hits. Then it's over for the season. This is almost four weeks progress.

And another well thought out purchase online, but I probably won't be able to enjoy them until 2012 considering it's getting late for seeds(received last week). Bunches of Petunias that if I'm lucky once again may show good size in mid October. Oh well, they make it well into the colder November weather in these parts. Going to have to start some of this stuff in Florida next January providing I get out of Google's Panda Prison.

Shown here is the status of some trailing wave Petunia seeds started the last week of March. They took forever to get moving but just the past few days with very warm temps have they made some good progress.

Daylillies planted from root last year. Calla Lillie's in the background also planted last spring that have yet to bloom at all. Perhaps a few weeks?

Young Seedlings

2011-05-09T18:09:00.001-04:00

A few more months and we'll find out if this perennial seed starting thing is worth it. I'm hopeful, but it does take quite a long time for results. Take for instance the first picture. This is Sweet William Sooty a chocolate colored flowering Dianthus. It was sown first week of March last year. It didn't do much for months and it was ignored until I saw some life and just stuck it in this area in front of some bearded Iris that were supposed to be a different color. These guys took a year and a half from root. Planted October 2009.

The results so far this year with trying perennials from seed. Ten Purple Cone flowers were moved to larger pots along with some Salvia Sage. Quite frankly I don't know where to put some of this stuff if they all make it. Few full sun spots around here. Most will go into the Alpine (hill driveway garden) garden, but will they survive the dryness? That probably won't happen until much later this year.

Trying my luck at Coleus from seed. Ordered from Swallowtail Seeds there are about 160 cells (about 50% shown here) with six or seven different colors. If one fourth make it, they will have plenty of places to call home. A bit late on starting but only time will tell. Started May 3.

And how about some Nasturtiums on the porch. Got the idea from Mom who mentioned an old friend had luck with them cascading down a basement wall. Incidentally some Moonflowers have been planted to climb some of the lattice on the west side, and a grouping near this step area. I don't think I'll have trouble with them growing. They exploded from seed with a vengeance already.

Up along the driveway will be plenty of large Zinnias behind the fence along with some giant Sunflowers. In front will be Marigolds and a few sections filled with African Daisies. No idea how how latter will do but the others love it around here based on last years growing. I'll have Zinnias out my ears in August. Maybe too many, including a Red Spider Zinnia.

Oh yea, some Blue Morning Glory has been seeded at the fence posts. Will it look like a jungle later this summer? I hope so. I just wonder if I'll be cussing myself out in 5 or six years with Morning Glories spreading everywhere.

One last spot along the lawn at the fence are more Marigolds in a few raised beds.

Mid April Goings On

2011-04-18T17:50:00.000-04:00

Not a whole lot of things to report. Tulips were a bit of a failure this year or maybe I expect too much from them. I'm also here to report they're over rated in my opinion. A few decent pics from earlier in the month. They're scattered here and there.

Made the trip to the dairy about the same time for some cow manure.

Twelve bucks, or 200 shovels fulls from my count. About 70 still left on the ground. If I didn't have the topper shoveling wouldn't be necessary, but it's good exercise with four small breaks in between.

There's actually much more going on but I've had no interest keeping the blog updated of late.

Caladium Gardens

2011-03-24T18:14:00.000-04:00

I thought Caladiums were such a waste of time two years ago, thinking why would anyone want these things? Down right fugly I thought. That changed after an initial dabbling with them last year. Finally I can do something with the area in front of the creek as it gets mostly shade but not the deep type. Should be ideal I hope. Found some nice crooked logs to keep them contained too. Plenty of nicely composted wood chips brought in from the recycling place for a healthy Caladium diet.

Problem is I've picked up about 120 of these tubers/roots/bulbs, so I'll have to find more areas for them. And who knows, if I mulch it enough they may survive the winter? My attempt at saving some last fall failed as they rotted. Didn't allow enough drying time I suppose.

Lawn looks like carpet eh? Finally pleased, but what happens when the Rye dies out? It's been mowed four times since my return.

Thinking about perennial flowers and such. I have more patience now and working on getting a half dozen of this and that sowed in my porch garden started two days ago. No seedy soil full in these flats. With temps only in the low 50's today with cold winds this place was warmer than indoors.

These things gave me the idea to try some perennials. Started last spring a few of them survived and now flourish. Should be interesting to see the first blooms this year. Dianthus Sooty. Oh and look some Bearded Iris (background) planted in October of '09 may do something this year.

And who says I eradicated the violets? They're all over this spring. Even in places I practically bulldozed.

Ooops. Little Wind and...

2011-03-19T18:23:00.000-04:00

Had I waited another five minutes to look out the window while eating lunch I imagined the fire department down here pumping water from the creek to ward off a forest fire. Scared me and I hustled like crazy to put this thing out. Kind of reminds me of my younger days while playing with gas and matches. Don't all kids try it at least once? I almost burned down the stables when I was about ten. Not sure if any family members knew about that.

Weather getting too warm. Something like 81 degrees today. Even some Tulips have appeared up the drive. Too bad the Violas are not as bushy as other areas but they have been making a comeback in this area since my return. Maybe another month and some great color?

Early spring project on the south side of the driveway. Removing compacted gravel and filling with composted mulch. I figured I'd go nuts with rows of Marigolds as they did so well last year in good soil. Throw in some Cactus Zinnias behind the fence and there will be some major color up there come July. Incidentally that particular Zinnia claims 2-3 feet height on the package, but grew from three to seven feet last year.

A few plants picked up at the Lions Club sale in May of 2009? Christmas Rose. Seems they want to bloom now.

More Daffodils up the driveway planted last November.

And several at the top of the driveway with a Forsythia bush.

Bugs Affecting Daffodils?

2011-03-18T08:57:00.000-04:00

That's what it appears to be. After all it hasn't been that hot and many are doing quite well. Some haven't even bloomed (across the creek)But it appears the ones deeper into the woods have been affected. The pathways were quite a sight last year, but not this time around.

Looking okay up the drive. This is a newer area that was nothing but packed gravel last spring. Daff's look good but seeded Violas didn't make it. I also had some planted ones but they were nibbled away from some critters. White ones are from fall '09, others planted last fall. On other side of drive are also new ones planted.

Moving further up the drive, patches of more daffodils were put in the ground last fall...

These are closer to the cabin along the driveway or on the rocky hill where nothing seems to grow...

Some Violas and pansies mixed in with Day Lillies greening up nicely. This is opposite the north face of the cabin or visible looking out the kitchen window. I also have some Thalia daffodils in there but they are slow to bloom.

Hostas are popping through the soil...

Some stubborn Columbine that took forever to seed last year are showing here and there...

Some Daffodils

2011-03-12T18:26:00.000-05:00

...and a healthy stand of Violas and pansies against the stone wall of the house, mixed in with some Thalia daffodils (all white flower) yet to break out. Nice warm area here and the reason for them doing so well.

About five inches of rain fell earlier this week. No more water woes...until the summer perhaps. Creek was busy gushing.

Back to more Violas, and a few Pansies. It's more about light and sunshine for the most part. Down here along the path near the creek these multi colors are beginning to shape up. The area gets very light and warmth as the sun sits so low in winter months hiding behind the steep hill on the south side across the creek. Daffodils on pathway leading west in background.

Fence line shows an assorted number of larger daffodils. Notice more slow growing Violas in the background (right) near the house. Again, very little sunshine, but that changes over the next month or so.

Barrel with some Pansies and tulips..Plenty of those around. More to see in April.

Moving up the driveway, some Tete a tete daffodils planted last fall. Four flowers per plant, but they're tiny. I should have bunched more of them, but hopefully the next few years they will multiply.

Oh, some more Violas planted along the storage area near the lawn.

It Looks Like Spring!

2011-03-07T12:24:00.000-05:00

Arriving home Saturday from my four month winter trip to Florida I thought I would see more color, but that's always looking at it optimistically. No major problems per se considering the ice storm over Christmas. Water heater down:( The grass certainly grew beyond my expectations, reaching a height of 8 inches in some areas. Fallen leaves drowned out some new seedlings, but that's an ever ending problem around here trying to keep grass growing everywhere without patches of dirt.

Violas doing well here and there. Containers mostly a flop. I suppose they went though some dry spells. Oh well. Daffodils coming out. More when they're all reaching to the sky. Going further away from the house something has been trimming the other Violas and keeping them from bushing out.

Time To Migrate To Florida

2010-11-14T18:22:00.000-05:00

Although the weather the last week has been pleasant it's time to go south! I'll be spending time on St. Pete Beach near Tampa as I have an appointment with a fellow web guy that occasionally helps with my websites. He knows more than I and is definitely worth the expense. After all he does it for a living and is not your flash in the pan kind of guy that says you can get top Google rankings in 24 hours or other such pie in the sky ripoffs. I've known Steve since we met at an Orlando webmaster convention back in 2004.

Anyhow, I've grown tired of all those modern hotels that don't even allow you to open windows. They say it's for liability reasons. Oh no, maybe I'll fall out of the window that sits four feet off the floor! Yea right! This is a mom and pops type of hotel right smack on St. Pete Beach only two miles from Steve's office. King sized bed, efficiency type one room for $120 bucks a night. Sound great to me.

See The YouTube Video. Leaving Tuesday November 16. Return? Mid February...maybe

Yessir. Fall Is Here

2010-10-25T18:23:00.000-04:00

But very pleasant weather the last week or so and not those frigid mornings where the temps hovered a tad above freezing. Finally finished off the insulation under the house and noticed this on the dust mask I've been using. Do these things expire? Notice the use by date. There must be a reason for it.

Peak foliage is very close around town, but you'll notice I have a number of bare trees, notably many Poplars that surround the lawn area and a few black cherry trees that never leaf out well to begin with.

Hostas are showing their fall color, some of them. My climbing Hydrangea has done well this year with one shoot or branch making it to six foot up the tree. Barely noticeable in background.

"First frost" hosta living up to it's name so far...No frost yet.

Mexican Sunflower finally bloomed. Surprising, because it get's very little sunshine this time of the year. I expected blooms by August when the location gets oodles of sun.

And those crazy Paperwhites planted last November love to appear early. I assumed they would sprout at the time many other spring bulbs do..in late winter..not mid fall.

Upon removing some Gladiolus bulbs from a shady spot where they never bloomed I came across dozens of itty bitty bulbs. By dumping them in a few holes about two inches deep up the drive maybe a surprise will show next summer.

Misc Plants

2010-10-18T18:24:00.000-04:00

Looking at a few misc plants scattered about; some barely hanging on while others seeming to like the cooler weather. Two in particular are the Cactus Zinnias and the Pineapple Sage that normally thrives in November. First pic is some cut this afternoon while the second shows plenty of buds ready to pop. I have several that just hang over the driveway and look pretty cool once they're in bloom.

Pineapple Sage making it's fall appearance. It was moved from against the cabin earlier this year to the lawn along the fenceline..

A Purple Cone flower that for all intent and purposes died two months ago. It had no green growth whatseover. I thought it was just another casualty of the summer heat, but now it's back to life and ready to flower? Below that is another cone flower purchased at one of the stores that is hanging on. I'll leave those guys alone and see what happens next spring.

And some fall flowering perennials (Stonecrop) in the back ground that are also struggling in the very dry Alpine garden area. I thought they'd be a brighter red, but appeared a brownish color.

And on to a Mexican Sunflower. This one is one of two grown from about a dozen seeds sowed on top of the soil back in May. Slow grower and the danged thing has a bud on top. I suppose it will fare better the second year. Oh wait it's an annual. Nice showing there Mex..doh

Morning Glories doing well but changing color during the day or at least the burgundy ones appear a lavender color in the morning then resort to their standard when the temperatures warm up. You be the judge.

Standard color...

Saving Caladium Bulbs...

Very Easy To Grow

2010-10-14T18:04:00.000-04:00

We'll see what happens here. I've heard it time and again especially those Cosmos that did not impress at all this year. It has much to do with the silly spacing suggestion they have on seed packs. Too far apart! So these very easy to grow Violas are planted at the driveway bend along with some past blooming Asters I picked up for a buck a piece. Even Walter Reeves the Georgia gardener expert says they're easy. Spring bulbs planted here and there as well.

One container garden done with a new twist while using some landscaping timbers. Notice the Cactus Zinnias leaning in the wind in the background. Several are six to seven feet high. They're keepers for next year, or at least worth spending time with.

Plenty of color over on the west side with some Mums that have been moved several times. They're keepers as well. They're kind of growing on me as long as they're out of sight most of the year. Coleus and elephant ear fading along with the Caladiums behind the Mums.

I was about to pull these Impatiens until I really looked at them closely. One of the best showings this year.

Knockout Roses planted a few months ago are an easy one to grow...very easy. Should provide some great all year round color up the driveway...

And finally the lawn has improved while using some annual Rye...

Violas & Pansies...Bulbs Too

2010-10-10T18:20:00.000-04:00

Earlier this summer the small amount of Violas mother planted surprised me. I mentioned I was going to get a bit more serious about adding more color around here. I just hope these danged things survive while I'm gone for the brutal winter months. Or at least I think they are! Getting buried in leaves is something that may dictate my Florida retreat. That would mean the middle of November once 95% of the leaves are down.

Here's a spot that hasn't done much lately. With the drought that surrounded my property this past summer (not 2-4 miles away) nothing would grow here due to lack of water and just plain lousy soil loaded with rocks. By removing down to 12 inches and replacing with good stuff Violas and Pansies may welcome my effort?

More spring wonders against the cabin or at the railroad tie gardens. Lowes has been a disappointment as far as finding these plants this fall, so I ventured into Wally World where oodles of stuff was available. Yea, I over did it again, but what the hey. I'm not planning on doing anything on the west side until spring, so much of the color will be around the driveway area.

Planters and containers. Not sure how these will do with nobody around for 2 1/2 months or so...

Looks Like November

2010-10-04T16:57:00.000-04:00

And I'm not interested! Low of 38 degrees this morning got me to thinking time to get some use out of the firewood collected this past summer, though I didn't expect to be using it for another four weeks. The annual migration to Florida will begin earlier this year, much earlier.

Last week son Ryan and I started insulating the crawlspace. I'm 3/4 of the way done with no interest in going down there until my back begins to feel better. Yep, can't do things like I used to be able to do, even five years ago. It made a pretty boring weekend doing nothing but laying on the couch for the most part. Incidentally Ryan has gone back to Florida. It was a combo decision. Afterall, there just isn't much up here for a kid that has no interest in doing the kind of things people his age do. IE drinking and partying. Besides he has an interest in a lady down south. Good for you son. Be happy and go for it!

Oh, a month ago I said to hell with that lawn, but thinking it through I knew I'd regret it come spring. So throw a little Rye and some Fescue and hopefully it will look halfway decent come May of next year. At least this time around the seed didn't get washed away like the heavy rains of last fall. Looks pretty strange eh? Hoping the Fescue will blend in once it germinates. I didn't have a very well organized plan of attack this time around.

Louisville Churchill Downs

2010-09-20T17:57:00.001-04:00

Once a year and they run for the roses. I wanted to put this small pictorial together last week when we toured the museum and did a tour of the grounds. Imagine 165,000 people here on race day. Great party excuse and a chance to say "I was at the derby."

Son Ryan...

Derby Museum...

Anyway, naturally the place is impressive and large! A few incidentals before more pictures of the grounds. Here's a saddle from the 40's. Not sure what size they are today, but it's more of a weight thing when it comes to racing. I sure could not fit on this thing!

A visitor posing for a photo with the 2010 winner...

You be the jockey. It's a simulated game anyone can play...

Call the race!

The grandstand....

On the rail...

View from another angle...

Yea, I was at the Derby (grounds)

School In St. Louis

2010-09-17T19:57:00.004-04:00

That's the reason for the visit. Very good experience for anyone desiring a career in the business. My purpose was to get some good images for the website that keeps me alive. Turned out okay for some pics, but I'm really looking for actual on site pics. That's a tough one to crack nowadays living in the sticks for two reasons. Getting into the good 'ole boys club in a rural area is hard if I needed work, and two, mention the internet and I get consistent blank looks. Few if any, see value I can provide.

I still got it many times at this school. Flooring people don't do the web. Good thing for me because it reduces the competition. Had I been in something like insurance, computers or other geeky stuff I wouldn't have a chance. Nowadays I just say I'm a gardener if they don't understand my business.

Son Ryan (blue shirt below) got lucky as some 40 students were broken up into four groups with instructors. His instructor was the infamous Daniel Boone (right) who claims to be a direct decedent of the Kentucky pioneer. I had doubts as I couldn't see the math in what he called an 18th generation, unless them Kentuckians had kids at real young ages...good possibility!

This Boone is synonymous with hardwood flooring instruction and and recognized by all that know the industry top to bottom. Starting as a helper for his father at a whee little age of six or seven, his knowledge and talents have taken him around the world as a respected go to guy whenever problems occur or opinion is needed.

Anyway, lot's to mention, but little time. Some misc pics.

Video...

Cards Vs Cubs. Busch Stadium St.Louis

2010-09-17T19:12:00.000-04:00

Yep, why not check out a Cardinal game this time. Having been in this city for a third time in my life I always wanted to see one. One can sense the longtime rivalry with the visiting Cubbies as traveling fans had reason to cheer while downing the slumping Cards 7-3 behind problem child Carlos Zambrano. It seems the Cubs are working on a new milestone as one fan laughed while waiting in line for a hot dog.

"We're now working on two centuries..." (without a Wold Series win) That's right fans, the Chicago Cubs have not won a World Series since 1908. For trivia buffs, this marks a time before the radio was invented!

Easy access to this ballpark. It was really spur of the moment when I saw Zambrano was pitching. Staying at the Hampton Inn in Chesterfield, I mentioned to Ryan at about 6PM let's go check it out. I-64 East and about 25 miles later we're there without any traffic problems, parking about two blocks from the park. Tickets? Whoaa, they're all too damned expensive in my opinion. I can't see how people can pay these prices. These days I sure don't see many Afro Americans in the stands.

Anyway we got lucky as one gal was trying to dump two $85 dollar third base line tickets for $40 each outside the ball park. All I had was sixty in cash so she agreed to the deal. Good thing they take debit cards everywhere, otherwise it would have been a ballgame without dinner. That made up for the ticket deal.

Nice back drop of the the arch from this seat. Having been to Citizens Bank (Philly) and this park being newer I thought they would have a collaboration of ideas for food and other stuff. Not impressed but they had a similar outfield mall area where people can mingle, but lousy views of the ball game.

Smoking sections? Good thing I don't need one every other inning as it's on the street outside the park with street entertainers here and there. Quick Cardinal trivia question. Who has the retired number 85 for St.Louis? A few fans I asked couldn't answer it either. Answer below.

Answer- The Cardinals retired the number 85 in Augie Busch Jr's honor in conjunction with his 85th birthday in 1984.

American Pickers Spotted In Louisville

2010-09-12T16:47:00.003-04:00

Saturday morning while grabbing a hot breakfast at the downtown Hampton Inn of Louisville I noticed a few familiar faces. Okay I thought, those are the pickers! Gotta have some fun. I snuck up on Frankie Fritz and mumbled "hey you been pickin' in my territory." The response was quick just like his fast wit on the program.

"Where?" I hadn't thought past the initial question and should have said something like Bobby Joe Hatfield up in Possum Holler. Anyway, if you've followed the History Channel's American Pickers show you may wonder just as much as I. How can these guys make much of a business with a small van 400 miles from home? Ten picks and sometimes the van is full with items that may only gross a $500 profit. I thought perhaps they ship stuff back to home in LeClaire, Iowa via common freight lines.

"The van is a magical truck...it stretches when we want it to," quipped Frankie with Mike Wolfe as the two began dreaming up answers to my question. They aren't any different than what's seen on the program, always clowning around. Seriously though, Mike reported they have a large box truck follow from them until it's full.

I didn't realize how popular the show was until I did some research. The average episode is viewed by 3.8 million people, making them modern folk heroes of sorts and a TV idea that experts said nobody would watch. So what kind of team makes up the pickers? Seven folks are involved in the program on the road that includes the box truck (not seen) a small RV, the Antique Archaeology van, and a lead vehicle with camera guys and equipment.

Spending a few minutes having a smoke in front of the hotel while the team was getting ready for the day I asked John the cameraman if they stage the greetings you see when the guys knock on somebody's door.

"We go ahead and set things up, so people know the guys are coming but everything else just happens(without any scripting or rehearsal)." I also inquired where the helicopter was. Most people probably don't notice the great camera work I do. A lease for hire chopper is brought in from time to time where John handles the aerial shots as well.

As natural as you see them on TV, joking around constantly, one of the team members looks at me and says "see what we have to put up with?" after Mike nudges the van forward almost pinning in John as if to say...

"Man we're ready, lets' go dude." Pictures are worth thousands with these two, but I'm not the type to push it into people's faces. Wide eyed with big smiles, these guys look like ten year olds ready to hit the playground.

Road Trip - Shake Off The Late Summer Blues

2010-09-11T08:00:00.001-04:00

Considering how my gardens are nearly dying of thirst, especially the ones up the driveway where only carried water works, I'm outta there. Oh, and by the way the spring seems like it's nearing critical levels too. I'm hearing spurts of air gushing through the lines when the toilets are flushed (3x each day now). The creek has been the garden water source via pump the last two weeks and it's the laundry in town until some significant rain falls in the area.

So it's Knoxville, Louisville, and finally St.Louis for a NWFA (wood flooring) installation school. Son Ryan didn't appreciate the great drive yesterday through the Daniel Boone National Forest going up I-75. I actually wanted to take the slow way, though deeper mountain country and off the beaten path. Mountains aren't his gig.."boring, lonely" is his take. Yea, at 24 I may have thought similar, but he grew up in an urban area so this new experience doesn't work for him.

Thinking to the fall, I was blown away at this sack of daffodil bulbs I saw in a Knoxville Home Depot the other day. I may have to pick one or two up on the return. Pretty darned big bulbs as well. The driveway could use a good showing of daffs next spring which I can't wait for. This past summer has been a real bummer...hot and dry. Atlanta had something like 70 days over 90 degrees where the average is about 40.

Louisville has some stuff to offer. Churchill Downs which we plan to see Sunday. Muhammed Ali has a museum in town along with the head quarters of the Louisville Slugger Bat Company and the worlds largest bat. Not my pic, just something I found with Google images.

Sure wouldn't mind seeing some botanical gardens, but it may be getting late in the year? Probably see the Cardinals vs Cubs next week in Saint Louiey. Staying at the Hampton in downtown Louisville until Monday AM. Indoor pool, yohoo...but CLOSED by order of the city. Something to do with a chemical imbalance. Geez folks got nutting else to do? How freaking bad can it be? Many people probably drink worse. This society is so damned scared of getting sued. Rules, rules and more rules. What happened to simple times?

All Is Not Lost...But

2010-08-31T12:25:00.000-04:00

Yeppper, the lawn is gone. It's either lack of water because I did ignore it the last four weeks and only about one inch of rain fell, or it's just plain stagnant air that creates disease. It wasn't this bad last year. Plenty of 90 degree plus days this summer.

What were once Shasta Daisies...

This thing finally took off and a blue Morning Glory flower appeared the other morning. Strangely it flowered until the evening unlike the others that peter out about 11AM.

I don't know how these Columbines are going to make it. About 6-8 weeks to the first frost. I started some from seed back on May 7 and finally let them loose about three weeks ago. Still so fragile. Left of screen...

Zinnias have no problem around here except for some wilts now and then, but that's everywhere. Creeping Jenny and a perennial Hibiscus thrown in there.

Cactus Zinnia I think they call them. About 5-6 feet high...

Joe Pye weed leaning. They weren't there last year as the area was a wheel barrel ramp...

Coleus, purple?? and some other things that didn't grow as the seed pack suggested in a spot that is extremely wet underneath (6-8 inches down) because of the drain field. Coleus are from cuttings about six weeks ago.

Lantana, Red Salvia (damned those things grow, dead head every two weeks) and more Zinnia from the porch...

These whachamacallits did real well this year...I'm too hungry to remember...lunch time

Dog Days Of August

2010-08-05T12:18:00.000-04:00

Somebody made that phrase popular and now I understand the context. It's just been too darned hot and humid to get motivated and do much around here. I did predict this summer would be hot:( Some plants are getting that powdery mildew problem including Impatiens. I thought those critters were immune to practically everything. My Dianthus up the drive are croaking (50% remain), yet the ones near the house are doing very well. And none reseeded. I was hoping for that. Must be the type?

One bright spot on the right of the fence is the shamrock ground cover with small white flowers. It took them awhile to get going. Finally amounting to something. Maybe next year the area will be full.

Here are some projects from last month. A new rock garden in the woods with another trail. Some of the new hostas found a home there and Impatiens moved from another spot. Oh yea, some Creeping Jenny in there along with some small Columbines I started from seed. Hard to say if they'll make it as they're so fragile looking. I got tired of looking at them in small pots on the porch.

Moving up to the drive on the west side of the house is another railroad tie garden. Hostas and some other stuff I don't remember in there. Naturally more Impatiens and those other shade plants... Begonias(not faring too well)

On the other side shows some leftover flagstone that I cut into pieces to create separate areas...

And look what I found in the septic system. The biggest culprit, not to mention 200 pounds of roots growing here and there was a two foot glob that clogged the drain field pipe. I prefer not to go there again. I now can understand the importance of building inspections. I doubt they had one for septic in '91 when this place was built.

So that's about where things stand nowadays. The next project is doing something with the septic area. Rather than dig, dig, and dig in case it has to be pumped again, I liked the idea of creating a rock pile (right of photo) so I know where the stupid thing is next time! Looks like it's time for some better steps (I moved the old ones) over here and maybe a small platformed deck overlooking the new garden areas.

And yes, the Morning Glories finally came out...

Time For Some Maintenance

2010-07-21T18:31:00.000-04:00

I let this repair drag on mainly because I didn't want to hear the worst case scenario. My fear is the drain field may be clogged from who knows what. Having discovered and uncovered part of where the septic was two months ago, the honey truck was finally called in. Knowing very little about the systems, that darned Sycamore only 20 feet away tree started leaching into it. Scott the crapper pumper mentioned in typical Georgia drawl..."Kin, you jest mite have some roots growin' and cloggin' it all up(where it empties into the drain field) on the other side."

Shown in the first pic is a side view before pumping. This is a 1,000 gallon tank (two people have said that) that I guess measures something like 10 x 10 x 10...but it looks like only five feet wide? Apparently it extends about 10 feet to the left in the picture below.

Shown from above or on the side porch, all sorts of smallish roots and matted material...

So that's where I'm at now. I need to dig up other side so I can access the other lid and find out what's clogging it. Hopefully it's a simple cure because the drain field runs into my new garden areas. Why this tank was built this way doesn't make sense, but this place was designed as a weekend retreat and not a permanent home. Accessing the tank requires digging under two foot of soil. I suppose it needs to be pumped every 5-7 years according to Scott but I have plans for a wooden stair way here similar to the one on the other side of the house but longer... That sure screws things up!

And we have a roofer in the house. After the bird feeder got dumped a few months ago it needed a roofing repair....

Random Happenings

2010-07-15T12:44:00.000-04:00

Yesterday afternoon while sitting on the porch having s half a smoke, I heard this yelp..or so it sounded like it, then a domino effect sound. I knew the log pile fell over. I thought it had been leaning. Guess that's why a cord is measured four feet inn height. It got up to five or six feet. Shown is Lewis inspecting the grounds this morning. I wouldn't have minded if that neighbor dog that yaps at 5 AM was under it, but nope.

Good thing my elephant ear didn't get buried, but lost were 3 or 4 Caladiums.

What good are those little dogs that "mouth off" for no reason? Two weeks ago the place sounded like a freaking kennel out of control. It was horrible! There are something like (3) adult mutts and four or five puppies. I had enough, and made my displeasure known. It was okay for a few weeks until the past few days. First time I've been displeased with my neighbor.

Now good old Lewis (pictured) is a good dog. He barks when necessary, not just to exercise the jaw for nothing. A few days ago while visiting, Lewis begins barking. I figured some critter was about. Sure enough a Heron across the creek appeared unfased by his barking and didn't budge. I don't think Lewis wanted to chase it, as he did his thing from my porch.

Look here, a sunflower opens up. I can't understand why someone up 52 on the way to town has rows and rows of these things and yet mine are decreped looking. Oh well, I don't know how to spell it either.

El Presidente or whatever Lily flowering. Those things aren't healthy looking either...Forget all the Calla Lilies (not shown). I guess they'll wait till next year.

Here's a bright surprise up the drive. It wasn't there last year and is going to town. It's either some kind of wild morning glory, potato vine? Loaded with buds. Incidentally, one flowering morning glory this morning on the side of the house up the chicken wire trellis I built. Maybe all is not lost?

I gave up on the Allysum along the wall here. Now there's some creeping Jenny. Hopefully it will fall over the wall nicely over the next few months. Hard to see, just planted but they're in between the mounding Petunias on the edge. Those sprawling Petunias (last year) are a better choice there.

We just may have some tomatoes soon...someday.

Fish fertilizer. I've been hearing about it..not sure how well it works but I did put some in the hanging planter a few days ago and the plant greened up big time.

July 4 Parade In Ellijay

2010-07-04T07:22:00.000-04:00

I never made it last year, my first full year in the area, so I wasn't about to miss it this year. Come to think about it I haven't been to a 4th of July parade in I don't know how many years. Impressive turnout if you ask me, with most of the crowd seemingly out of town folk from the half dozen I polled. The parade starts down near the Pepsi plant or at the corner of Sailers Drive and River Street, runs up River around the roundabout and north to the school area where the annual firework display is held.

What's a holiday without politicians pushing their promises and tossing candy to the kids? I had one guy try shoving a flier in my face when taking some of these pictures. Dude, sure I'll vote for you...but can't you see I'm doing something here?

Old cars...to...

little dogs...and..

Girls on horseback waving their southern heritage...The one in the rear had a smile for miles.

American Legion...

Looking west to the roundabout...

"What's next?" Asks Ryan after the parade ended.

"Let's just sit here and watch the people" These two girls really stuck out walking back and forth repeatedly. Ryan finally asked them what the purpose was.

"To look cool." Oh my, you figure that one out but this is what I discovered while searching the subject on Google. Sad, if it's the case here.

DL Hosta Farm - Pictures

2010-07-01T12:21:00.000-04:00

I'm off the Day Lily addiction for now, but now it's Hostas! Mother told me about a local nursery she found in the phone book while she was here. Who looks there these days? 21 miles northwest of my home or 9 from the center of Ellijay and nestled in the hills. Beautiful drive going out on 52 east and then north on Zion Hill Road to higher elevations and this little place is almost near the end of the road. The sign said closed when I arrived. Hours 10 AM but I didn't spot the days Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until later.

Quarter to ten, I figured I'd wait and have a look around. It didn't take long and someone came through the woods explaining they were closed. "I drove 30 miles and the place is closed? I couldn't find any information on the web, nor did it say anything in the phone book," I said to Fred whom I later found to be the owner's son in law. I had to stretch the truth a whee bit to get some compassion; I was here to buy some stuff! His mother in law in her late seventies runs the place while being originally from the Homestead, Florida area thirty years ago.

Hostas and more Hostas! I said to Fred... "I see price tags and I have cash." Unfortunately we couldn't find a smaller Blue Angel but here's one that is probably fully matured. Gotta love these bigguns.

Big ones and there are little ones. I didn't buy any miniatures and it's probably going to take time to consider putting any of these in around here. After all, I like bushy stuff and not dinky stuff. I did buy some Mouse ears a few weeks ago though. Still don''t know where to put 'em.

Some more dinky stuff..

Some pics of the "farm". Incidentally, a great location for one. It sits right near a good sized running creek, loaded with shade trees, damp, and moist.

So what was purchased..and more important where will they go? I'd been eye balling a large wet area on the west side of the house in the woods and a new area I've been working on the last few weeks. Still not sure about this project. Maybe a few smaller hostas here...and... I dunno.

Great Expectations
First Frost
Vanilla Cream - Smallish
Krossa Regal - Could be larger than five feet across
Undulata Mediovariegata (not an easy name)

Plants That Bit The Dust - Or Close To

2010-06-28T17:20:00.000-04:00

They look so great in the home centers..and I'm giving up on them except for the ones I know do well. It seems like practically everything growing in the shade thrives. Could be bugs need to sun bathe and don't like cooler areas? Here's two Rising Sun Coreopsis I really fell for at Lowes a few months ago. Doing some research it seems there may not be enough air circulation. Instead a fungal disease has developed and is slowly killing it.

Probably should yank this one as that fungus can spread throughout the soil according to this story. They may have done better off in the drier Alpine garden area. I just figured the existing soil was so dry and it's sloped that it would never stay moist so I'd be safe. Nope, adding quite a bit of mulch to the soil has actually retained the moisture.

And these Lemon Zest Petunias! I've tried it all. No water, water a little, keep cutting the spent flowers, dab some fertilizer on them, wait for results. Nope. Scrawny buggers. Besides some critter loves the taste. Time to replace 'em. Other Petunias thrive around here except for this thing.

Convolvoulous. "Just like Morning glories but in bush form" Burpee says. "Heat, drought, and poor soil tolerant, they’re enchanting from summer until frost." Yea, okay... but not at my house!

Delphiniums. What a total disaster! Never could get any to grow from seed either. It's time to visit a real garden center... local mom and pop. At least they'll have what grows around here and not some dream plants those other guys sell.

Oh, by the way. Violas are beginning to reseed from last year. This is a spot where they were moved from but some are popping up. I still have some Yellows growing quite well. Not sure if they'll ever die off for the season.

....and the wave Petunias from last year came back. Thriving where they are.

Summer Bulbs

2010-06-28T12:36:00.000-04:00

I haven't been impressed by my Cancun Lilies, but they'll be back year after year. They do look great close-up but ragged from a distance, plus some critters/bugs are getting to their stalks. Probably should plant some small guys in front to hide their "bare legs."

Some Gladiolus are showing. I have them in four locations so I should see some blooms the next 2-3 weeks? Those buggers don't like to stand up straight so they're propped up any which way. They are also reaching for the sunlight in this partially shaded area. Same with the Cancun Lilies (in pic below) Here's my first attempt at a floral arrangement.

Canna President on both sides of this area. Three of seven appeared. There were supposed to be some Princess Di Lilies (7) but they never made an appearance. Could be too wet down there. A few other failed attempts trying Delphiniums (browned out plants). Had them in another spot as well, drier...still died within weeks. Calla Lilies in small center garden. They're not too organized, look crowded, once again bending for the sunlight.

Hey, my elephant ears are making progress along with the Caladiums. Coleus grows like crazy around here. Had to trim those guys back once already.

More Caladiums...

Day Lilies? Sure Why Not

2010-06-26T08:11:00.000-04:00

About a year ago I noticed all over town these yellow flowering plants that I thought were some kind of daffodil. Remember I didn't know squat about this gardening thing then. I really wanted the Stella Del Oro as they're more of a golden color but nowhere to be found the last few weeks. Instead some other interesting types have found a home. Here's a group of three nestled in the larger area to the west of the house. Name is seen in the bottom left hand corner when clicking for a larger image.

Tucked away behind some Shasta Daises is another type claimed to be fragrant or is that just part of the marketing angle? More research...too much stuff to remember.There are several more up the drive of the same variety planted in the alpine garden area (pic below). Not sure how these buggers will do considering it can get quite dry up there and they are struggling by the looks of the browning leaves. Hey the tag says "water wise." I'm assuming it does okay during dry conditions?

Oh look here, another new garden. This is directly north of the cabin. Some more repeat lilies.

Along the driveway in the newer rail road tie gardens. I have not been satisfied with this camera of late. Pictures aren't as sharp as they have been. I probably messed with a setting?

Alpine garden area...

Hostas Blooming

2010-06-23T11:53:00.000-04:00

It's Hosta blooming season. I have five or six varieties so far, but I can see some internet buys for next years showing. Do you know how many types of Hostas there are? I thought they were downright boring a year ago, but I have so much shade around here, what else can I plant? Yea...I know the list, including these temperamental seedlings started May 7.

Columbine...

Back to the Hostas...

This one has been here since 2008 but moved to a happy place.

And ones across the creek...

Summer Critters

2010-06-11T11:22:00.000-04:00

The squirrels are back with a vengeance, and they have figured out my barbed wire bird feeder fortress. It's time for plan C..a BB gun.

I forget what these guys are called...about four inches long. Could be the Cicadas getting an early start this year. Lightning bugs are beginning to appear, but trying to get pictures isn't easy.

This marks the third year I've seen this turtle. It has to be the same one by scouting out the same area to lay eggs. Apparently this year unsuccessful as it's now covered with gravel. Poor critter has been trying for four days. Each morning I find new holes in my drive and she's always so tuckered out.

Not often I see Orioles in the area. Lucky to see a couple each year...

Orange butterflies just love the chigger weed.

Garden Updates

2010-06-04T18:15:00.000-04:00

It's been awhile since I showed any progress here. GGG's talented work is showing. The first area shows some hanging baskets and ones that are sitting on pedestals atop the rock wall. The yellow violas planted last September continue to roll on. You may also notice the Dianthus was given a haircut. They just got too scraggly looking with dead buds, and I wasn't about to take my time with them one by one. So it was scissors and just cut 'em down to about 6 to 8 inches. Rumor has it they may re bloom later this summer.

More of the Dianthus along the driveway. The shamrocks are beginning to show some flowers on the other side of the fence, but these danged things are growing much slower than I thought, but the soil is pretty bad. Only 2-3 inches high. More violas! Yellow and purplish or do they call that Lavender?

Moving on....These are the traveling Geraniums. They spend the winter and spring in Florida with the summer and fall months in Georgia.

How about some lemon twist Petunias? I picked these up about six weeks ago.

Over near the path into the woods are some white Begonias and Asslysum in the trays.

Moving down to the rock gardens. Lot's of color especially with the Astilbes. Center. pinkish color. Pinkish Begonias (red in clay pots), White Impatiens and others.

Down near the creek along the pathway. Endless summer Hydrangeas decided to become pinkish in color. Time to throw some coffee grinds around for deep blues.

Moving to the Hosta garden. They're growing and a few are budding...

Close-up of climbing hydrangea...

I'm not pleased with what's going on here. Several summer bulbs have not appeared including two elephant ears. Nice color variation in the Coleus. Caladiums making progress.

That's about all for now.

Will Work For Food:)

2010-06-02T18:36:00.000-04:00

What a deal! My son Ryan is now living up here in the mountains. Considering he's known nothing but Florida all his life I'm hoping he fits in well...it worries me. Dad is quite proud he overcame some problems a few years ago and has a new lease on life or as Pastor Anastasi calls it "returning him with a sound mind to his family." Sound? Yes. Quite a change has taken place. I expect to have some video sometime soon. Yea, I know I said that about GGG, but she came down with a case of chigger fear. In other words no more outdoors!

There will be lot's of wood to chop this summer. Here's part of a smaller tree I took down a few weeks ago that had died a few years back.

Let's see what else is happening. Lawn work? Sure.

Here's a good pic of Ryan for his Facebook profile when we were in Florida last week.

That's about it for now....

Mountain Laurel & Critters

2010-05-23T06:33:00.000-04:00

GGG keeps telling me "get some pictures of the Mountain Laurel." Okay, finally. Quite a few of them up the driveway. Most are white, whereas I thought there were more pinks. Plenty of them at the turn in the driveway near the bottom where the location of these pics were taken.

Let's see what else is new. Besides the chiggers that are now out we had a different critter visit a few nights ago. I'm assuming it was a bear by the looks of what happened to the bird feeder. Not to mention the grass is beaten down around the base of the feeder...and black hair found on the barbed wire.

Another smallish critter slinking around. It surprises me considering how much I've been turning over rocks the past few months I haven't seen more snakes. I'm guessing this is an eastern milk snake according to my brief research.

Oh I forgot those dirty birds that made a nest on the porch under the rain spout. Eastern Phoebes They love to crap all over stuff. They flew the coup Wednesday. I can't imagine them actually being able to live in the small nest shown. These guys were piled on top of each other. Five in all. And no, that's not momma bird in there either. The nest itself is almost flat instead of cone shaped.

I'll have to keep an eye or ear out for these things next year. They aren't invited!

Great Granny Gardener Video

2010-05-16T18:20:00.001-04:00

I've been meaning to put something together, so I grabbed the small Sony still camera that has video capabilities. Not the best quality. Each time there's movement on top of the tripod it can be heard. You can also hear a zippering sound when the zoom functions, but hey it's just a thrown together video.

So here we have GGG talking about trimming plants. Considering I'm still kind of clueless on the subject, now I have something of reference. Incidentally a few new areas have been developed in case you're wondering.."I don't remember those..." In particular are some new bushes in front of the downstairs storage area seen in one segment of the video. The name is Nandina and they can be kept in check easily. Come fall they do offer some great autumn color. I wanted to extend them all the way across the back but one buried stump prevented that effort. Now it's filled in with Snap Dragons and Zinnia.

Endless Summer Hydrangeas planted about a week ago down by the creek. They should reach 3-4 feet in height and width. They're actually beginning to flower! Same with the climbing hydrangea in the next photo.

Enjoy the video. Hopefully a few more in the coming week.

A Trip Up The Back Hill

2010-05-15T11:36:00.000-04:00

Across the creek and a trip up the hill in the backyard. Something I've been wanting to do since moving here. Not much of a struggle at all, considering I've cut down on the smokes from two packs to about a half pack per day. I'm itching for one right now...ack!

Looks like a deer trail about half way up the hill. I've seen them in the area before, but they never hear me because of the rushing creek water.

White Mountain Laurel or Rhododendron, whatever you prefer. Plenty of those coming out all over the pace, but more pinks than whites.

Lot's of ferns on the hill...

Made it to the top, but forget trying to get through. Heavy with small pines and thickets. The area on the other side had been logged with what could have been the last ten years or so. It looks like if I want to see the other side (and the view) I'll need to do some clearing or wait until winter.

Morning Glories At A Snails Pace

2010-05-14T07:49:00.001-04:00

Planted April 4. Considering how much these things are supposed to grow during the season I thought they would be doing better than this. But, I'm impatient for sure. The plan is to have them climb the side of the house. Types planted are Heavenly Blue and Crimson Rambler. For now I've constructed a low chicken wire face for them to climb...whenever. Once they pass that point it's fishing line tied to eye hooks in a grid pattern up the side. Expected height 12 feet.

Yea, they're barely visible. Half to one inch tall. Dwarf morning glories (MG) are planted about six inches away (in front) from the regular MG.

The ladder has been leaning against the house for three days now. Damned carpenter bees have had a drill-a-thon this spring. Busy plugging holes with two way up top left to be done. I've never been fond of extension ladders...chicken.

Driveway getting colorful with Dianthus...

A close-up near the front steps..

And a late spring bulb bloomer. Dutch Iris with some Allums behind. They don't impress me for some reason.

GGG hard at work planting Shasta Daisies, Catnip, and Lavendar. Also some Mexican Heather in the foreground. Notice those pain in the rear daffodil stalks? The consensus points at cutting them back after six weeks past blooming to return next year. GGG disagrees.

and this guy has been showing up like clockwork since GGG has been spoiling him. That's Lewis the neighbor dog.

Will Work For Beer

2010-05-06T18:33:00.001-04:00

Funny how not much was getting done around here when the fridge was nearly void of beer! A trip to the local liquor store for this rare Miller product and the problem was solved.

Yessir. Great granny gardener (GGG) is in town until later this month. At least we have a plan this time around. Last fall not much got done, but then it's not a planting time of the year for the most part. It will be different this fall considering how well the Violas did. They look to be the longest blooming plants around. Still going strong since late September.

Above is GGG surveying the hoop gardens for survivors. All sorts of snapdragons in there. I thought they were misc weeds. Some Hollyhocks made it..six or so. And finally some healthy seedlings are appearing in those roasting trays I started 6-8 weeks ago.

Give her beer and see what happens? Work, work, work!

Planting Petunias along the wall area again this year. No pinks this year... White and deep purple...The lawn is awesome in this area as expected.

Two lower rocks gardens done...Hostas survived from my spring tilling. White Impatiens and red Begonias are new this year

Several perennials made it here...Newbies include Begonias and Coleus.

Moving down to the creek. I did the rock area about two weeks ago along with the hanging planters. GGG handled the black barrels today with White Impatiens, Red Salvia, and some Zinnias. Not sure what'll happen here as the area gets quite a bit of shade.

More barrels! Hibiscus, Shade Petunias, Ageratum,Variegated Vinca Vine, and Angelonia.

It's Miller Time...

West Side Garden

2010-05-04T18:03:00.000-04:00

I started this entry three weeks ago.

What to do? It's separated by shade and intense mid day sun. Add dry and wet to the mix too. Part of the area is on top of the drain field. One reason why some leftover fencing has been laying on the ground for two weeks. I can't go down more than 18 inches on the extreme left part of the pic.

Let's see what else is going on here? Calla Lillies (9) in the small area next to wheel barrel, along with two Stella De Oro.

Left of wheel barrel: Canna President (7) on each side with Princess Di lilies(5) in between. President is supposed to get four to six feet tall and loves the wet stuff with hot sun. This one could be a good choice, but time will tell.

Above that in the second area...Gladiolus (25) with seven Cancun Lilies(4 +3 on the ends) Those three areas should get about 6 hours sun.

Rear- Shade garden #1. Elephant ear in center where orange flag is.Two types of Caladiums and about a dozen Coleus. None of that stuff interested me whatsoever last summer, but they look interesting now.

May 3..Salvia and Lantana (3) next to wall below window. Four wallflowers planted in with Salvia.

Gladiolus and Cancun Lilies...with Coleus and other no shows in background. With recent warmer soil temps(apprx 70 degrees) something should start happening soon.

Lawn always looks great in May...

Wilkerson Mill Gardens Visit - Palmetto GA

2010-05-01T17:56:00.000-04:00

Off the beaten path about 15 miles west of the Atlanta airport. Lot's of roads named mill on that side of town.

Anyway lot's of stuff to see. I was disappointed in that one of the hydrangeas I wanted was sold out. I did settle on a climbing hydrangea called Moonlight Climbing Hydrangea. Going to have to be patient with this one. Real patient. Woman at Wilkerson noted some of these may take awhile to bloom depending on what you want out of them.

So that means if I want blooms and height it could take 5-10 years! Oh my gawd! She had mentioned one she had (different variety I think) took seven years. It's a matter of training them to what height you want I reckon. So this one can climb to 40 feet, perfect for this location next to the creek, but a few small trees trees may have to be cut back (another angle below). Moonlight likes the shade too. Another perfect match for this spot.

Looking further back, or this pic taken from the porch a good view of the location behind the two small Hostas...and it has a number of buds on it already seen above! Blooms in summer.

Here's a peak of what it's supposed to look like in bloom...from http://www.hilltop-gardens.com

The other selection is Popcorn Viburnum or Japanese Snowball. I chose three of these that may be planted behind the fence line near the yard (below). Blooms in the early spring (done already) Grows to 8 foot by 8 foot.

Fenceline area...

What they look like in bloom and larger..from http://www.ncsu.edu

I hope I have the patience for these.

More pics...

April Wildflowers

2010-04-29T17:58:00.000-04:00

I forgot I was trying to keep a monthly tab on what wildflowers were coming up around here. Looks like I missed March, but there are only a few bloomers during that month.

Wild Azaleas. Three colors here and there; white, orange, and a mild pink.

Trillium. They're only about 18 inches in height but this became an interesting shot.

Could be this one? http://www.missouriplants.com/Yellowalt/Duchesnea_indica_page.html

Some type of small spring growing Aster. They stand about 12-18 inches high. Flowers are the size of quarters. There are also some faint purplish ones.

Foam Flowers...

Unknown...

Wild Iris? Or is that a trillium too? I dunno. If I spent some more time at Missouri plants I'd probably be able to name most of them. Best source of wildflowers I've seen so far.

Unknown...

Thousands of these very low growing buggers near the bog...other spring on the west side.

Unknown...

And some different types of Daffodils that bloomed here and there about two weeks ago in with others. Totally different look.I never did get a healthy pic.

Hosta Garden #1

2010-04-23T18:41:00.004-04:00

April 8...

A project in progress over the last three weeks. First it was digging down about 8-10 inches and then filling with some good composted mulch, cow manure and existing soil from the area. The area in back is a mound created by some of the lawn fill that was deposited in the area two years ago. Hostas ain't gonna grow in clay for sure. Imagine that, I'm getting knowledgeable.

April 10...

Nice well aerated soil, much like what's across the creek where a group of wild Hostas thrive in the summer months. In the background (photos below) I scavenged some stuff from the woods that include some Foam flowers, and what looks to be two types of ferns, along with some plants that grow along the wooded hill at the far east side of the property where one path ends. No clue what these guys will do here, but they grow well on steep hills in shade. May need some rocks to keep 'em company.

April 23...

Close Ups...

On to the planting. Goofy looking things eh? I came across the same while sticking in some Caladiums last week. "Plant with eyes facing up, just under the soil level..." I guess that means about one inch.

What They're Supposed To Look Like...

1- Hosta Gold Standard- 32-36" wide 24-28" height. One placed back center.

2- Hosta Francee- 28-36" wide 15-20" height. Two placed on right and left.

3- Hosta Golden Tierra- 18" wide 10-12" height. Two placed in front.

Where? Still room in between for other stuff. Maybe the Hypoestes I got today or some Coleus. Those transplanted Hostas (far right) look out of place now.

Incidentally the purchase from EasyToGrowBulbs.com was a compulsive one. I did spend a few minutes looking at size, but color? Not so much.

Endless Summer Hydrangeas

2010-04-22T07:50:00.000-04:00

Endless Summer Hydrangeas. I love seeing these things and they actually bloom all summer long. Oddly enough the color is dependent on the type of soil they grow in. The question is will they look too formal around here?

Good shade shrub from what I read.

Local source too:

Wilkerson Mill Gardens (Hydrangea.com)
9595 Wilkerson Mill Rd
Palmetto, Georgia 30268

I'm going to have to check this place out. 20 miles SW of the Airport. Could be a nice trip for Mom when she flies in May 1 early in the morning.

Oh they have Magnolias too...a few 15 footers here and there would look nice. Incidentally I'm not considering the Muskogee Crepe Myrtle anymore. They would take over the only full sun area I have.

The Back Road To Blue Ridge

2010-04-20T17:44:00.000-04:00

...and Home Depot. After all what's a person to do when it's raining? Just a drizzle most of the morning but found some interesting views and pics along the way. I never look at maps driving around here; just figure I'll find my way out somewhere.

Here's a home nearby or on Roy Road. I've taken pictures here before. I can see they are serious gardeners by the fresh mulch pile not seen. Moving along through several valleys and up and down winding roads.

Plenty of old pickup trucks around...

This is not an unusual scene in the mountains...

But this one is...

The cows probably don't get many visitors. All heads are pointed towards me.

Getting darker as I head deeper into the morning fog and a gravel road. Ut. oh I thought...dead end somewhere up the way? Who cares.

I must be getting closer to populated areas? For sale too...

The Blue Ridge Dam and Lake... I started out on the other side of the mountain peaks about 30 miles southeast or an hour drive. Elevations in the 3,000 to 4,100 foot range.

The other side of the dam...

Anemone Virginiana 14,000 Seeds

2010-04-18T18:23:00.003-04:00

I've been thinking about this one for a long time. It sure would be nice to see a swath of flowering plants along my long driveway. So I stumbled upon this one late last year. I'll probably scatter some in the woods too. The location sounds ideal for these things.

How to plant them is the next question. I suppose mixing with sand in a milk jug with lot's of small holes could work. Just shake 'em out. But how to scatter them consistently? This should be interesting.

Anemone Virginiana (Tall Thimbleweed)

They grow to three feet and bloom June to August, or thereabouts. The source Prairie Moon also claims the seeds have been stored in conditions ("pre sowing treatment") so that they may bloom the first year. Oh, okay we'll see about that. I could be too late for this year anyway.

Source for above image.

The target areas...first photo shows about 100 yards to crest of the hill. There's probably another 30 yards behind this.

At the crest of the hill going down...that's another 100 yards.

Once that's done I will experiment with mass planting Astilbes along the creek banks. Ferns love it around there and so should these guys.

Part of the target area..

Other woodland plants:

Virginia Bluebells

Lobelia Queen Victoria

Revisiting The Hoop Greenhouses

2010-04-18T07:20:00.000-04:00

Some stuff grows while others do not. One thing is clear, no cow manure next time around.

Failures:

Four O'Clock- oh well
Delphinium- oh well
Red Hot Poker- oh well
Snap Dragon- oh well
Marigold Scarlet Starlet-:( I wish I bought more. Time to revisit Home Depot

Successes

Cosmos- piece of cake
Celosia- seems like a candidate for the Alpine Garden
Convolvous-- I'm tired of trying to spell that name.
Sunflowers- what do do with them?

Some of them came out of hiding today and went into the railroad tie garden on the east next to the house. On the left Conv. Blue Enchantment (12 inch max height). This is in front of some Morning Glories (12 Heavenly Blue, 6 Crimson Rambler) seeded about a week ago. Hoping they pop up then I plan to build something for them to climb on. Hopefully they will climb a good portion of the wall...maybe 10-12 feet.

Looks like there will be plenty of Cosmos around here this summer. I mass planted a few hundred seeds on the Alpine garden banks. Then more along the fence line. up the driveway.

Cancun Lilies popping through the soil down by the creek.

No shortage of Violets around here.

I'll Take Two Mays

2010-04-16T06:53:00.005-04:00

April did not come this year the way I look at it. Instead there are two months of May on the calendar around here. Only two days under 70 degrees this month. Eight days over 80. Perfect, it's my favorite month up here. Tree foliage looks like it's ahead of last year by two weeks. Starting to get shade. Even the frigging lawn is looking better after mowing for the first time yesterday. I missed a small but heavy isolated thunderstorm that hovered an area 10 miles north of me last evening. It dumped about 4-5 inches. No other rain in the state.

And the song birds are out. I remember them much later last year, but several were singing this morning amongst the nasty smell of chicken manure fertilizer. Must be a heavy dose, or the wind is headed in the right direction because I don't recall it being that strong last year.

Maybe you've heard about the high pollen levels (weather channel based in Atlanta) in the Atlanta area. Doesn't bother me but my truck is a little greener. Stuff falling everywhere. Squirrels gone or I don't see them. I think I finally beat them on the bird feeder.

Nor sure what kind of bush this is, but it's starting to flower. Must be azalea? No it's a Rhododendron dummy! Where did we buy that one? There are actually two adjacent to one rock garden. The others against the rock wall don't have blooms, or maybe they're not the same. It's about that time of the year for wild pink and orange ones to bloom. Dogwoods are flowering all over.

These guys aren't coming up like they're supposed to (70 planted here). It's one of two different Anemones planted by bulbs back in December. This area is spotty just like the other near the driveway... but no flowers there. Bloom time says April, May.

Dianthus plugging along, reaching about 18 inches in height now. Some scarce signs of reseeding which I'm hoping for. I'd like to see it filled in by the end of the year. Time will tell.

Tulips Part II - Close Ups

2010-04-13T15:50:00.000-04:00

These do glow! Apeldoorn's Elite. No photoshop effects either.

Juliette at the stone wall area...

Red Impression...

Tulip Pics & Others

2010-04-13T07:15:00.000-04:00

I figured I may as well get them taken before the heat gets to them like some red ones a week ago. Gotta love the orange reddish ones; Apeldoorns Elite. They almost glow when the sun hits them right. Red ones in the center, Red Impression. Those violas sure have surprised me. I'll have plenty of them around next winter. Too bad the Daffodils died out. They would have filled in well here. And those stupid Muscari. What was I thinking?

Dutch Iris in the background growing, but I still think they're fried by coming up too early (December). Wait the package says "late spring" Maybe another month or so until I see anything. Still hope.

And from a further distance showing some more on the wall area. Juliette.

Closeup. Why I put a few Muscari in front is beyond me. I guess I thought they would be fluffier. Mexican Heather cut to the ground...ugly brown, no greenery. Misc reports say they may surprise me the next few months. Impossible to pull out...deep roots.

Golden Apeldoorns...

Purissima, and Red Impression

And some Hostas survived my garden tilling a few months ago. Upper left hand corner.

Adjacent rock garden leading down to creek. Foam flower is one, not sure of the others...

Daffodils across the creek like the cooler climate.

Buds galore on ?? The names aren't coming to me today...

Spring is here!

Hostas Popping Through

2010-04-05T18:32:00.000-04:00

These were transplanted last fall from the upper area, or in the railroad tie garden closest to the north side of the cabin. They did well until the summer heat hit last year. Then again, any lack of water doesn't help them either. No that's not right. That garden gets dew from the roof. It must have been too much sun. In any event they need shade, along with some other shady plants I may stick in the area.

"Moist well drained soil," seems to be the requirements for these guys. I recall digging down there during the drought and the soil was still damp, so this looks ideal...I hope. Probably try an elephant ear in there as well with...

Caladium- red/green (Red Flash). white/green(Aaron)
Calla Lillies- Blush, Yellow, Flame
Wolverine Hosta

I'll still have leftovers that I may try in the tree log garden (west side), or maybe I'll give that bog idea a thought again. It looks like some Daffodils are goners. Up on the hill as they couldn't take the 80 degree temps the past three days. Others down near the creek still hanging in...and a few odd balls. This must have been part of the mixed Daff bag. They just started coming out. Could be a half dozen or so.

Poor soles up on the hill...

Say hello to Rolando, my cow dung source...

I found a frigging squirrel in the bird feeder the other day. Hopefully this will be the final tactic needed on my part. Neighbor Carl helped with the barbed wire after asking for 15 feet, I got about 100. I can still wrap some more around there in case those critters try again. Doesn't bother the birds.

Alpine Gardening?

2010-04-03T11:47:00.000-04:00

That's what they call it at Daves Garden. It looks like all sorts of stuff can grow up the hill on the north side of the drive given the chance. I was lassoed again at Lowes! Dangit. I thought I had that problem licked with all these seedlings popping up around here.

Here's a project started a few days ago after I saw plenty of Creeping Phlox around town the past few years. Not crazy about the purples or yellows, I found Amazing Grace. Whitish with itty bitty red centers. It's a shrub that blooms very early and lasts for ?? A month? Evergreen to boot. Only time will tell. Grows to about 18 inches high but apparently spreads well. So I'm hoping in a few years it will cascade down the hill. Pretty decent soil up there. I was surprised, but a real bugger to water. Water pressure doesn't work up the driveway from the hose, so it's climbing the hill and dumping water on it...apparently until it becomes established. One week. Two?

Hopefully this blog will still be on the web 5-10 years from now, so it's nice to know what was done and what date, so as to see the progress. I keep some information elsewhere, but I'm terrible at finding it. Just like paperwork; I make an attempt to keep it together for a few months then bang...I forget about it, or where I put it. At least I know where the blog is.

Rolando scheduled to visit Sunday afternoon for some more cow dung.

Incidentally the current weather is a mirror image of 2008 (my first year). Couldn't ask for better. Mid to high 70's day, low 50's night....few clouds. Oh, a tulip sneak peak...

And the Bradford pear tree is out in town...

Daffodils Near Full Bloom

2010-04-01T09:13:00.000-04:00

Probably ten percent didn't bud. I'm sure they will do well next year. Not all are out in full form yet, but yesterday evening offered great light to get some pics. What I can't understand looking around the place is, most of these plants are actually facing the cabin. It's not like I planted the bulb that way...it's impossible. The entire place is surrounded, only the ones up the driveway are facing away from a vantage point.

They must be feeling my presence? Looking east...all are facing towards the cabin or to the west.

Looking west... the ones in the foreground (supposed to be multi-color but turned out to be King Alfreds) are facing the cabin (north) and looking further down the trail, all are facing east. Why aren't these facing the same direction as the ones on the east trail? Is there something I'm missing here?

Across the creek. They are all facing the cabin or the creek (north)...I need more here. They were supposed to be multi as well. The moss is a brilliant green in the morning. I didn't notice that last year, but I wasn't looking.

Moving up on the hill facing north....now they're facing to the south?

Maybe they're seeking the open area of the yard, or where the sun hits the most?

Pics from this morning...up the hill. Hard to make all of them out, but they're there.

Along the fence line....

Close ups...

Trail pics from this morning. Looking west

From the east looking west...

Hurry up before the party is over...

Next up? Tulips. One week? Most of the others are half this size.

Itty Bitty Seedlings

2010-03-30T12:01:00.000-04:00

Hard to say what some seeds are doing. I'm sure soil temps are key. No problem with Alyssum. These little buggers started coming up without any real sun...cold temps to boot inside my roasting pans. I have four pans of these.

Nuttin' happening in here...By the way all were started March 12 except for the Xtreme Impatiens below (March 19). Soil looks chunky doesn't it? Five no shows here...

1- Lobelia Blue Bird- lost some seeds. Mixed with sand and shaken with salt shaker
2- Lobelia Purple- May have been too heavy seeding
3- Forget me Not Blue Bird
4- Forget me Not Blue Bird
5- Spreading Petunia Purple Wave

Oh, the Impatiens are coming out...barely visible. Looks pretty ugly in there doesn't it? Lack of sun creating some mucky stuff.

1- Extreme White Impatiens
2- Extreme Salmon Impatiens

Next? Hoop garden #1- started March 8
Cosmos Sensation Radiance - left (48 inches)
Blue Enchantment Convolvous - right (14 inches)
Cosmos Summer Dreams- not shown (36 inches)

Hoop garden #2 Started March 16
Scarlet Starlet Marigold - (10 inches)

Convolvous- (14 inches) all these damned things are hard to spell. Hey those two look the same?

Stupid Or Something?

2010-03-26T17:57:00.000-04:00

I couldn't get Forrest Gump off my mind when I created yet...more gardens. Who can forget "...what are you stupid or something?" Plenty of room and plenty of time is all I can say. Besides I've been trying to clear out the area on the west side so I can get those guys to bring in some more cow dung. Too many leftovers from other projects. Next on the list; five eight foot by 6" x 6" pressure treated beams. Maybe a small stairway leading down the creek bank. Something mother wanted. Or maybe a rustic bench. I certainly need more sittin' places around here.

Brown doves? they showed up a few days ago...

Paper white..one survived

Some other stuff...Hyacinths with Tulips in back and Dutch Iris in the foreground. I think they came out too soon back in December; browned leaf edges. Says guaranteed to grow on the package. I must have a few hundred planted here and there.

Crocus. Not very consistent in other areas but this looks good. Pics below taken four days ago. Above, today.

Muscari...

I'm certain I have the squirrels whipped on the bird feeder, but have yet to see one try to climb the pole...probably very funny. Hopefully complete Daffodil pics next week. Most are out except the multi colored ones along the creek

Haha. Got You Squirrels This Time

2010-03-22T08:46:00.000-04:00

Since I moved here local squirrels would feast when no one was round to chase them away from the bird feeder. It didn't really bother me until this month. I tried grease on the pole, that didn't work. Then I looked into wrapping barbed wire around it, but didn't want to spend $60.00 for a spool...and borrowing ten feet from somebody's fence didn't sound neighborly. Aluminum flashing used on roofs seemed like an idea. Easy to staple into and now they don't have a chance...but it's only been one day.

I wonder how well paint sticks to Aluminum? There must be something that works. Too flashy for now. It need some brown. Guess what? Yep, that's snow on the fence; small sprinkling this morning after a few delightful days in the high 60's. Daffodils are flowering here and there, but you won't see pics until the complete show is on.

Seedlings started popping through the soil in the hoops late last week. Surprises me as there weren't any good days for warming the soil. Looks like anything grows around here, except the Paper whites. They came up too soon back in December. I think they're fried.

Oh, the lawn. Let's see if hay keeps the seeds from washing away this time. I'm not spending much time on that danged thing this spring. I put about six hours into it last week. It will probably look great in May and June, but that's it. Then comes hot, humid weather and lawn diseases. No good air circulation around here to dry it out.

Flagstone path finally done across the back of the cabin. Need bush/shrubbery ideas between stones and house where wheel barrel sits. About 24 inches space.

Sunlight. First Time Since March 7

2010-03-16T17:06:00.000-04:00

Darned friggin' depressing when trying to get seeds going. Rain here, rain there. I've been accustomed of late telling the folks at the Weather Channel to f--- off. Yea that's a heavy F word, not like me really. Maybe things are bound to change. One thing is clear, that groundhog in PA was on target. It has been six more weeks of winter. Today is the first day I've actually had the back door open in the afternoon.

So what's new? Daffodils about town are in full bloom. Mine are trying. Must be the time I put 'em in the ground that's causing the delay? They look happier with some good sun today. Shown in the background are some Tulips raising their heads.

Down by the east pathway. Looks like I don't need the markers anymore.

I have oodles of Crocus here and there but only one lone flower.

Moving to the west side of the house I finally finished this garden. Ready to go for something come late April. I decided to cut down a few skinny Poplar trees for the border. It was supposed to be a raised garden area, but I got tired of bringing in more dirt. It's kind of raised. Good soil! Mulch, great black cow dung, and that other stuff from Canada...

And the hoop houses. Got some seed planted about 10 days ago in one. Lotta good that did with clouds and low temps. Oh well, at least I'm about 6-8 weeks ahead of just tossing it in the soil after the "last frost," providing winter does not continue.

Almost forgot these buggers. Filled with low growing stuff like Forget Me Not, Allyssum, Lobelia. Yellows, white, blues...purplish.

Oh, the Dianthus are flowering. They must like that cow crap too!

It should be an interesting spring.

Conestoga Wagons Train Stuck In Mud

2010-03-06T07:59:00.001-05:00

Or that's what it will almost look like once I finish the hoop gardens. Windy weather has prevented the completion. Windy? I thought you didn't get wind down there in that valley? When it blows big time in the area I get some of it, but too much to try wrapping plastic around the hoops. Besides I have other stuff to take care of.

Finally got some cow crappings. I wish I had taken the camera along. I was referred to another dairy farm (started in 1840 or so the sign says) in a gorgeous valley setting. Homer Wright Road, about eight miles from home. They had oodles of wonderful stuff to enrich the gardens around here. For twelve bucks a scoop, I consider it a good deal, but I had to hand shovel it in the back of the truck. Heavy crap indeed. I was plum tuckered out, but not being in shape with all this cold weather has much to do with it.

I'll take up the offer of having it delivered when I need more. Two yards for $45 delivered by Yolando. I don't think he's a native. There were plenty of those guys around on the farm. Story has it the weather may get into the 60's this weekend. Yea, I keep looking and looking for warmer weather...but. Last March about this time there were for four straight days over 70 degrees...topping out at 82 one day.

More seeds on the way. I won't be able to get all of them under the hoops, as I figure I have only 78 square feet to work with. Each little greenhouse measures 4 foot by 6 foot. If all goes well I may just do this up on top of the hill next year on a larger scale by clearing out some trees. Need firewood anyway.

Seeds ordered:

I got a case of click here for more..they're inexpensive. Now I have doubts if I can grow Begonias.

Swallowtail Gardens

IMPATIENS, XTREME WHITE 100 SEEDS
IMPATIENS, TEMPO WHITE 100 SEEDS
IMPATIENS, XTREME SALMON 100 SEEDS
ASTILBE, SHOWSTAR 25
BEGONIA, ILLUMINATION PEACHES 'N CREAM 25 PELETTED SEEDS
BEGONIA, GO GO SALMON 100 PELETTED SEEDS
BEGONIA, GO GO CHERRY 100 PELETTED SEEDS
SWEET PEA, MAMMOTH NAVY BLUE 50
SWEET PEA, FIREBRAND 50

Previous Order (Feb 25) From TM Seeds. Lousy service so far...no word

GRASSES ANEMANTHELE LESSONIANA
AQUILEGIA YELLOW STAR
COSMOS BIPPINATUS RUBENZA
DELOSPERMA STARDUST
SWEET WILLIAM SOOTY- black flowers!!
DIANTHUS MICROCHIPS
GRASSES: PANICUM VIRGATUM
HOLLYHOCK ROSEA HALO WHITE
LOBELIA QUEEN VICTORIA
VERBENA ST GEORGE

Hoop Garden

2010-02-26T10:21:00.000-05:00

I started this about a week ago when temps were getting pleasant enough to plow through some soil. That didn't last long...frozen again. So today I thought best to try and bring the soil temps up for spring seed planting by covering with plastic. I have about 15 varieties either bought from TM seeds or the local Lowes. I had plans to get it going by March 1, but that ain't too far off. The soil underneath has been turned over; just needs some cow crappins and some decent top soil mix

There will be three hoops. Each measuring four foot by six foot and will be covered with 6 mil plastic visqueen. The area will get direct sun from 9AM until about 4PM until the leaves begin to form on the trees. That happens about the first or second week of May. Also about the time the last frost occurs. I should say the latest period for frost. I think I found an average date somewhere around April 20-25.

Hopefully by that time healthy little plants will be ready for replanting here and there. The area is also hidden from winds. The entire area is really, protected by hills on all sides except for the west. For the last week I lost interest, but now...I'm getting there again.

White Oxalis /green (shamrock flowers) bulbs on the way as well. 250 of them to be planted below the fence along the driveway and into some shade. Information obtained says if planted in mid March there should be some flowering around June 1.

Daffodils trying....

Tulip bulbs popping through where the soil isn't frozen...

And the only flowering plants around...Violas. I may make an effort to have a mass planting this fall from seed...along with some other winter flowers.

Chimney Fire. Yikes!

2010-02-22T12:09:00.000-05:00

Or that's what the chimney sweep dudes tell me. About two weeks ago I had noticed it became a little smokey inside. Then one day I started a fire, went outdoors for ten minutes, returned and smoke was pouring out the seams in the chimney pipe. That was enough. At least the fire extinguisher worked. Not that I needed it, but did have to put the small fire out and air out the inside with 20 degree temps looming outside.

So today I get a visit from the chimney dudes. Getting tired of that cold heat, plus the power bill was near $200 last month for a small 1100 square feet. It seems burning wet wood (I knew that) and moisture build up with the flue closed to get a longer burn was a good recipe for massive creosote buildup in the angled portions of the chimney pipe.

"Some of the pipe may be warped..." mentioned one guy. Today's rainy weather prevents them from getting on the roof for a full inspection. A warped pipe means a weaker pipe...I guess. It's not noticeable from inside or out, but I believe they said it's double insulated or similar to oil cargo ships that have two hulls. Added protection.

"So I guess that rules out getting it cranked up until you come back?"

The answer was.."if it was mine I'd get it going."

I'm still thinking, but hey they're the pros. The wood is much drier now, or in a range woodheat.org considers good.

Comment Moderation

2010-02-16T10:03:00.001-05:00

Stranded In The Hills

2010-02-16T09:47:00.001-05:00

What's wrong with this picture? Or what looks different?

No snow. Yep...much of it has melted away. Cold? What else is new.

I tried driving into town Sunday thinking it wouldn't be a problem until I got to the top of my driveway. Most of the snow had melted on my side but not the steep road leading up. Considering it's been well over 30 years since I've driven in snow I thought what's a few inches going to do?

Wrong! Thinking back I'm lucky I didn't go over the side. Almost landed in a small ravine bear the bottom. Not only was the road snow covered but iced from the Saturday night cold. I felt it sliding half way down the hill, turned close to the drainage ditch on the right in an attempt to gain traction. It worked until I got to the ravine. Yikes! After ten minutes of thought and evaluation I managed to steer it straight back on to the road and slid to the bottom where once again there was no snow.

So...two days later and it's still ice. This time of the year the sun sits so low it's not able to melt any snow or ice on that part of the hill. The truck sits abandoned at the bottom, waiting for rain or warm weather. Did I make it to town? No. There's another hill that gets no sun leading down to the main highway. A neighbor landed in the creek Saturday trying.

On the shopping list. A four wheel drive. My closest neighbor has no problems getting his small Toyota pickup (4WD) up and down the road...a little spooky but it works. We went into town Sunday for necessities. Sooo, it looks like Thursday or Friday before I can get back to normal.

Another sale sign at the top of the hill noticed since my return. That makes six properties up for sale. I heard a small lot of 1.5 acres went for $7K during my Xmas visit to Florida.

If I Only Had A Tobaggan

2010-02-13T09:02:00.001-05:00

..or a sled for that matter, but there ain't no chair lift around here! With what looks to be two inches of snow that fell Friday and the continued cold weather, this snow will probably last a few days, this hill would be a winner. But if you can't stop, forget it; past the fence and down about twenty feet into the woods.

Pictures taken about 8:15 this AM. I need real gloves!

And the creek. Snow really brings out the beauty of nasty old man winter.

The trails into the woods...

Icicles

Spring Is On The Way?

2010-02-07T10:10:00.000-05:00

Yea, we've seen this thing enough times. It tells me winter!

On the other hand these buggers say..."screw that groundhog, I'm telling ya spring is comin' right up.!" Daffodils poking through the soil...all over the place.

And these guys. I thought they would have been decimated by the cold since I was in Florida. Not so...

I suppose I didn't leave out enough munchies for the rodents...It's an empty dCon bait tray..several.

and this thing again...time to get cracking on that...around mid March

Need More Space

2010-02-03T08:54:00.000-05:00

I've been thinking about this quite a bit lately. There just ain't no room if I get visitors. Well one is fine, but what if sister Kim can drag along her hubby to the mountains. Hey, at least it's not like muggy Florida. May would be a great month...my favorite, when everything is so vividly green.

Then we have my son Ryan. It's too crowded with Mom coming up as well. And I have thoughts of selling floors online again...no Ryan can do that...he has an interest and is very good at it. Maybe two or three products...with the traffic I'm now getting, there's money to be made. It may be up his alley, but I don't want the hassle.

But...there's a space problem for sure. I thought about a temp trailer, an addition, then finally...a detached garage with an apartment upstairs! It would work great as an office area too. So here are some ideas. Preferably I'm looking for something that doesn't overwhelm the small cabin in the dimensions of 20 x 36 deep or so. Plenty of room for a workshop downstairs, and space for equipment, when or if we ever get into the installation thing we've talked about. Business on that end is downright dreary and the more I learn about the Atlanta market, it may not be worth pursuing...extremely competitive and low priced.

Just a few ideas. A balcony in the front upstairs is a must. French doors or sliders so one can enjoy the mornings. The garage would be situated on the west of the cabin.

Some initial ideas.

I like #3 with some adjustments. It would also be the same dovetailed log scheme as the cabin.

Warm Florida Weather - Finally

2010-01-15T11:23:00.000-05:00

Time to get the shorts out...finally. I've only worn them twice since being here going back to December 16. Bring the weather sensitive plants back out as it looks like normal temps may be here to stay. After monitoring on Wunderground the lowest around here was something like 32 over the past ten days, but lot's of wind while staying in the fifties and sixties. Home? Frigid, until a few days ago. Something like 5 of the last ten days where temps didn't go over 32. I even missed 3-4 inches of snow from what I hear...drat!!

Other pics around Mom's home...

Lobelia. I like this stuff. Expect to see more at home this summer.

And we're trying to find the pool leak.

Florida Visit December

2009-12-28T18:06:00.001-05:00

Took 3-4 days to get adjusted. I thought I'd be bored outta my mind. It looks like I'll be here until January 23 or so. Made a trip to "the farm" finally. The farm is is on Pine Island.

Where's Bubba? I Gotta Find Bubba! Oh there's Bubba. AKA Heather, my neice.

A few more pics. Neice Jennifer with her grandmother Mabel.

And their father and grandfather. Ed (left) Herman (right)

Group shot of the cousins...Left to right; Ryan, James, Jennifer, and Heather.

See the video. It starts with a trip to the driving range with my son Ryan. Basically his first time with some kind of instruction. Followed with my first time on a horse.

Mulch Pit

2009-12-15T18:08:00.000-05:00

Or you can call it the wood chip pit; next to the county garbage collection place on this side of Ellijay. The smaller piles shown are about six feet high and probably twenty feet deep. New and old chips, mulch or good composting stuff; whatever one wants to call it. I've been busy digging into the center of it and coming up with what I think to be some healthy stuff for the gardens I have scattered all over the place here.

Add some cow manure to the mix, once I can get it, and it should be worm city. I inquired at the dairy farm down the road about some manure. "Too wet now." But finally I know a good source instead of spending $$ at Lowes. For five bucks a bucket (yard) I'm pleased.

Off To Florida Thursday. Some winter pics of my lovely lawn failure.

Creek running strong all month...

Time To Flee This Winter...again

2009-12-11T07:36:00.004-05:00

I can tolerate 26 in the AM and 45 or 50 in the afternoon...but not this. My favorite time to work outdoors is between 8 and 11 AM, but wait until the crust on the ground thaws out? I've been trying to get the west side area done for a week now. Then it rains again. Sure I've covered it...but. I've actually been screen sifting (rocks) all the soil dug out and mixing with some really good composted wood chips from up the road...add some leaves to the mix as well. The horse crap guys never called me back and I don't want to press it. Maybe when I return from my trip to warmth.

I would suspect this will be good and fertile come late April when I can get some of those winter sowed plants in the ground. I also hope to get either horse or cow stuff when I return from Florida in late January. Yep, there's a cow dung place nearby...but they want money. Not sure how much yet, but beats spending all that money at Lowe's.

Got a little carried away with tilling other soil around the property. I knew I should have looked at the summer pics to find out what was growing where. So here were a few young Hostas I killed. I would suspect they won't come up now that they're six inches under now? The two in the upper left are under. Didn't touch the right side.

Speaking of Hostas. They're kind of growing on me. And lot's of other stuff I didn't like five months ago when I didn't know a hill of beans about this and that. So. How about a Hosta garden? Maybe I can finally finish off that area down by the creek (above). Check out this Hosta site.

And bring on the bog garden. Ever hear of elephant ears? I may get a few of 'em for the bog. They can get quite massive the way I'm reading into it. This place should be teeming with all sorts of stuff next summer. When the heck is winter over, dang it! OMG, it hasn't officially started.

West side...raised beds...shivering; not to scale. Red wood ships will be buried, covered with fresh wood chips. I even thought of a low trellis in the back of a few beds with some climbing things. Leftover lattice laying around. Only the first one bottom left gets enough sun for a morning glory? But do they need morning sun? They won't get it until mid morning.

On to Florida Dec 16 or 17.

Winter Snow

2009-12-07T07:19:00.001-05:00

Just a sprinkling the other day...

These Dianthus continue to surprise me. Moreover, recent reading tells me they may make it through the winter months while flowering at the same time. Everything else around here is gone thanks to the 20 degree temps Saturday morning. Except that funky thing in the planter is still hanging in there.

Exception: Violas, marigolds. I plan on a nice showing of the Violas and some pansies (aren't they the same?) next winter by starting from seed and containers in the summer. Should be very different along with other winter flowering things.

Noticed the other day an interesting find on the top of the roof. Looks like some shingles are loosening. I'm not about to explore it. That roof pitch is far too steep for me. No leakage the way I see it after three inches of rain last week. More rain on the way tomorrow. I'm assuming the heavy winds last week were the cause. Kind of rare for winds to actually have an effect here because of the location. Only when they blow hard from the north do I really feel or hear it. Mother has had wind chimes hanging for two years on the porch, but why bother?

More bulbs popping through the soil... Dutch Iris

For Sale. Eveything Is On Sale

2009-12-02T16:20:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago while walking the property I took some snapshots of sale signs...they're all over the place. Here's one I thought could be a deal. Right smack dab on top of the hill overlooking Cartecay Valley. There's a total of 12 acres but can be split. At the bottom of the hill is a creek that may run about two feet in width most of the time. Price? $15 K per acre but I'll bet that can be whittled down. Rumor has it the owner may be desperate, but that doesn't seem to be new thesedays.

Turning directly around or 180 degrees another sign. Not sure what they want for this one but it's something like 120 acres. Here's a county map showing property areas. The green dot is where I am standing taking the pictures. Dark blue is my property.

Next to the previous sign is another, something like four acres. Yea, I took one last summer but it didn't have any prices.

This morning while investigating a power outage (another tree down) I see another property up for sale. I've only moved 50 feet from the green dot on the map. Actually it's a modular home....aka mobile home. 1550 square feet. 3BR/2BA 1.5 acres. I investigated the sale sign in the window to where I was directed to a website. $59,900 or make an offer. It was repossessed but the sale does not include the land.

I suppose that's the norm for the rest of the country. For sale signs everywhere. On a more positive note I actually saw a new home under construction a few weeks ago. It almost looked strange.

Mexican Heather Has A Winter Coat

2009-12-01T11:39:00.010-05:00

I guess this shrub oozes moisture when it gets cold? This morning the temps reached 26, but it's not the first time this fall. I've seen two days at 27 around 7:30 AM. Anyway it's all dressed for the cold. Not as green compared to a few months ago when it thaws out.

Dianthus still hanging in there although they look beat up with frost covering them. Give it a few hours and they look healthy as ever.

The whatchamacallit....Pineapple Sage continues along, although looking like it's no longer reaching for the sky.

Petunias take on a new look with the frost covering them...

And that thing in the middle of the hanging basket. No clue as to the name and how long it will last?

Few remaining Impatiens along the stone wall hanging in there...barely.

Wildflowers Expected To Shoot Up

2009-11-27T17:36:00.005-05:00

By obtaining the names on the packages here's a photo list of what is being planted...scattered. Top going left to right.

Butterflyweed- also known as chigger weed. I already have this growing.
Prairie Aster
Farewell To Spring
Mountain Garland
Lance Coreopsis
Plains Coreopsis
Purple Cone flower
California Poppy
Blanket flower
Indian Blanket
Globe Gillia
Birds Eye(a)
Blue Flax(p)
Perennial Lupine(p)
Arroyo Lupine(a)
Missouri primrose
White evening primrose
California Bluebell(a)
California Bluebell(a)
Annual Phlox(a)
Black-eyed Susan(a)
Scarlet Sage(a&p)
Bachelor Button
Cosmos
Spurred Snapdragon

...and three or four that didn't make the photo gallery.

Corn Poppy
Gloriosa Daisy
Catchfly
Nodding Catchfly

A few months ago I bought (8) 2 gram packets of these. Offered by Ferry-Morse called Natures Rainbow Mixture and American Native Mixture, or enough to cover about 200 square feet. The area is now running at about 300 so I needed more. Now Lowes has easy shaker wildflower seed and more selections are added to what's above. And much lower in cost.

Bring on Cool Color Mix by Burpee...

Chinese Forget Me Not
Bachelor Button
Annual Baby's Breath
Cosmos
Virginia Stock- not sure about this one
Clarkia elegans

...and another bag to cover 1,000 square feet. Damned place! Now what am I going to do? Get some seed up on that other bank (opposite) that get's a lot of sun as well? This one is called Flagrant Wildflower Mix. Guaranteed To Grow!

The list...

White Yarrow
Sweet Sultan
Siberian Wallflower
Chinese forget me not
Sweet William- have already
Birds Eye Gilia
Candy tuff Amara
Sweet Pea lathyrus
Sweet alyssum
Evening Scented Stock
Four o'clock
Lemon Mint
Nicotina Alata- smells like cigs?
Evening Primrose

Good thing I don't have more full sun areas around here. This place would keep me busy!! Too busy.

Wildflower Gardens

2009-11-25T12:08:00.007-05:00

Or at least that's what this area will be eventually. Wildflower area is planned to run around the corner, or about the fifth fence post. After starting yesterday, I thought the area in front of the fence would be an ideal place for the rest of the flower bulbs. Finally! I actually got tired of looking at them. Lost count of how many. Count 'em for yourself. The final tally below doesn't include the ones near the pressure treated wall.

And I said I got bored with the west side of the house, but dangit those bulbs laying around were annoying me. So there's something like 100 in that area. More crocus had to be planted as well, along the fence by the lawn. Should be an interesting spring...wondering how many will come up. Oh, the paperwaites are beginning to sprout (warm weather)

And the Dianthus is dropping seeds.

Muskogee Crepe Myrtle

2009-11-19T11:23:00.004-05:00

I've been thinking for awhile about what to do up the driveway, Something that will stand out and grow fast. At first I had considered Hollyhocks then came across the Crepe Myrtle. Wow! Stunning I think, and the darned things grow 4-5 feet each year reaching 15-25 feet. What's more is they bloom for about four months. Definitely lot's of color in your face making the turn in the bend of the driveway.

Before...

After....

Expensive? Yes, larger ones, but I'm trying to get my hands on some 3 gal sizes, maybe in the $20 each range. I figure ten along the fence line. Seems there are some growers about an hour south of Atlanta that I may look into.

More information about the tree here.

Finally. Steps Off The Driveway

2009-11-14T17:17:00.004-05:00

Forget that other idea of creating rail road tie steps. That project would have taken forever amongst a weave of roots and who knows what else. Not to mention the slope being extreme. With the chainsaw being out today and the blade/chain getting duller and duller I thought about putting it to rest by cutting some railroad ties. That usually puts them into the can't use again department. I'm not good at sharpening them anyway.

So, another project complete. It didn't take as long as I had thought either. I did think I would encounter some large rocks but it wasn't so bad. A few finishing touches needed but finally...steps up to the old logging road! Good place for the 30 or so daffodil bulbs left.

A view from above...