Monthly Archives: March 2015

So much is blooming! A flush of color and blooms with a continue threat of a late frost is the order of everyday!

The Asian magnolias are loaded with blooms.

Camellia “White Perfection”

Plant nurseries are beginning to stock up but its too early for frost sensitive plants! Don’t be tempted! Those tuberous begonias are beautiful but don’t!

Spring is the best time for seasonal vegetables.

Roasted Asparagus and brussel sprouts with roasted garlic, lemon, and olive oil.

Preheat the over to 400f. Cut the tops off a head of garlic, pour olive oil over the cut ends, and wrap in aluminum foil. Place in the over on the top shelf.

Cut the brussel sprouts in half. Remove any tough outer leaves and toss the veggies with olive oil then salt and pepper, if you like. Squeeze half a lemon over the veggies. Place the pan on a middle rack in the over. Near the end of roasting, about 30 or 40 minutes- squeeze the other half of the lemon over the veggies.

When the garlic has softened, squeeze out the soft bulbs and toss and stir in the roasting veggies.

And just before taking veggies out of the oven give them a toss with the roasted garlic and cook until they are as soft as you want them. I like mine with a little bite! Al dente!

And there is always time for an Iced Mocha latte at Cup A Joe!

XXX

After two sunny days of temps in the upper 60s so many things are growing! Time for yard work!

The cast iron plants were in need of a good trim. Usually I only remove damaged or dead leaves but this year they are receiving a crew cut!

In a week or two they will be sending up dozens of new leaves. I also took this opportunity to trim back the clumps of roots and move plants away from the paths.

Gus supervised!

The old fashioned hydrangeas received a good trim, too. They were taking over the parking area and had some snow damage. They are large and beautiful in the summer as the pictures I posted last Summer demonstrate!

I simply followed the limbs back to the strongest bud and cut. Many cuttings will be made for rooting pots!

After about three hours of work Gus says it’s time for a nap!

I agree! Or at least a grilled cheese sandwich!

Xxx