tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66956253622829612432024-03-08T03:08:23.184-05:00Huckleberry and HoneyUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695625362282961243.post-75869249934789072402014-05-14T10:37:00.000-04:002014-05-14T22:50:57.085-04:00BeltiesAs soon as I saw a picture of a Belted Galloway, I knew I had to have one - just based on appearances alone. And after some research, I fell completely head over heels for this breed. Here's why:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YBTzwdelIQI/T42EXUHuMLI/AAAAAAAAAO8/DkL86AqR_7w/s1600/geograph.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YBTzwdelIQI/T42EXUHuMLI/AAAAAAAAAO8/DkL86AqR_7w/s320/geograph.jpg" height="221" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Belted Galloway's - affectionately know as "Belties" - are famous for their Oreo-like appearance. Their coloring can however vary from the traditional black and white: common combinations include red or dur with a white belt as well as solid black. This Scottish/Dutch breed is known for their outstanding foraging capabilities, their hardiness and their ease in calving.<br />
<br />
Originating from the rugged, hilly, sea coast of the British Isles, Belties are well suited for harsh conditions, with excellent foraging instincts and a shaggy second coat of hair that protects from the cold and damp of the winter. Due to their winter coat, Belties lack the common back fat layer for winter warmth. This lack of back fat leads to a more lean, flavorful meat with "carcass dressed weights well in excess of 60% - 62% of live weight" - US Belted Galloway Society.<br />
<br />
A female Beltie can produce a healthy calf annual beginning from 14 months all the way into her late teen years. The ease in calving is due to the small size of the calves. Belties make excellent mothers and produce a large amount of extremely rich milk, contributing to very rapid growth in calves.<br />
<br />
Other benefits include:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>The breed is very long lived, 17 to 20 years</li>
<li>Males are naturally polled (hornless)</li>
<li>Least amount of feed required for every pound of weight gained </li>
</ul>
<br />
Belted Galloway's are considered a "thrifty" breed, excellent for beef herds... plus they are super adorable. I urge those considering raising beef to consider this breed!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Geograph</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695625362282961243.post-5738981948292819762014-05-12T08:42:00.000-04:002014-05-14T22:40:19.315-04:00Surprisingly Edible: Alternative FruitsWhen deciding to grow fruit, I often find that we often limit ourselves to just a couple, old stand-by's - the fruit everybody and their neighbor are planting: apples, peaches, pears, etc. But here in the temperate region of the United States we can grow so many other, equally valuable... and in my opinion much more exciting alternative fruits:<br />
<br />
1. <u>Amelanchier species</u> - A great midsummer fruit that is slightly smaller than the more common black currants. The fruit is a reddish-purple tint that is sweet and juicy with a distinct apple flavor. Closely related to vaccinium (blueberry), amelanchier is more commonly known as: serviceberry or Juneberry. One of the major issues you may run into is that the fruit is a beloved favorite of our feathered friends. There is however a simple solution: net off your plants, similarly to blueberries, to save some of the tasty berries for yourself.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Leo8BT-jzYU/T2FLDtCzr8I/AAAAAAAAAF0/g3s7FRGHbHk/s1600/AmelanchierBerries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Leo8BT-jzYU/T2FLDtCzr8I/AAAAAAAAAF0/g3s7FRGHbHk/s320/AmelanchierBerries.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Amelanchier alnifolia</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Edibles: <br />
<i>A. alnifolia</i> - 9' shrub to 10' with the sweetest Juneberries you'll ever taste, it's also the best producer. Once established it will sucker and form a thicket<br />
<i>A. alnifolia semiintegrifolia</i> - similar to the shrub above but fruit ripens a week or two later<br />
<i>A. laevis</i> - a taller amelanchier reaching heights of about 30'<br />
<i>A. lamarckii</i> - another tall amelanchier reaching heights of about 20'<br />
<i>A. stolonifera</i> - a shorter amelanchier, often staying below 7' in height. It will sucker but at a much less rapid pace than the others.<br />
<br />
2. <u>Cornus species</u> - Dogwood<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q17gfITD4jg/T2FRGQVxf8I/AAAAAAAAAF8/0PePhnf3oeY/s1600/Cornus-kousa-fruit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q17gfITD4jg/T2FRGQVxf8I/AAAAAAAAAF8/0PePhnf3oeY/s320/Cornus-kousa-fruit.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Cornus kousa</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Edibles: <br />
<i>C.masi</i> - Also known as the cornelian cherry is a deciduous shrub. The fruit can be very variable in quality and size. For the best, most flavorful and juicy fruit - make sure they are fully ripened. If unripe the fruit can be very astringent.<br />
<i>C. kousa</i> - Deciduous tree that is a good alternative for the <i>C. florida</i>. The odd-looking fruit ripens and can be eaten raw or cooked. The skin can be a bit bitter so the best way to eat it is to bite a bit of skin off then suck out the sweet, custard-like center.<br />
<br />
3. <u>Crataegus species</u> - Known also as hawthorns, have many species that produce edible red berries about the size of cherries as well as edible leaves. The fruit tends to be slightly sweet with a strange aftertaste when eaten raw which is why they are more commonly made into delicious jams, jellies, syrups and preserves where they become much more palatable and are high in vitamin c.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XlaFSygRRb0/T2IIZ9L43tI/AAAAAAAAAGk/BAThGXS0XTw/s1600/nPA174744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XlaFSygRRb0/T2IIZ9L43tI/AAAAAAAAAGk/BAThGXS0XTw/s320/nPA174744.JPG" height="246" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Crataegus monogyma</i> Photo Credit: <a href="http://www.plantsystematics.org/imgs/jdelaet/r/Rosaceae_Crataegus_monogyna_9480.html">Plant Systematics</a></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Edibles:<br />
<i>C. arnoldiana, C. baroussana, C. douglasii, C. ellwangeriana, C. festiva, C. monogyna, C. pensylvanica, C. schraderiana, </i>and<i> C. tanacetifolia </i>to name a few<i>...</i><br />
<br />
4. <u>Diospyros species</u> - Persimmons: A genus of deciduous trees<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_mzrDFIp5DI/T2ICK0Kh5NI/AAAAAAAAAGc/KFJU0xHYZtY/s1600/Diospyros_virginiana_fruit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_mzrDFIp5DI/T2ICK0Kh5NI/AAAAAAAAAGc/KFJU0xHYZtY/s320/Diospyros_virginiana_fruit.jpg" height="320" width="286" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Diospyros virginiana</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Edibles: <br />
<i>D. kaki</i> - The Japanese persimmon is the most widely cultivated species, but doesn't do extremely well in Tennessee (successful plot in California). It is edible while still firm but is best when eaten after it has had a couple of days to soften.<br />
<i>D. virginiana</i> -Native to the eastern United States, the American persimmon can become a very large tree. The fruit rarely becomes fully ripened on the branch, but you can collect the firm ones and let them sit and ripen fully in your home. They make a wonderful pudding or a nice, moist bread or cake. I wouldn't recommend eating until fully ripened and soft. The fruit, when not fully mature, is high in tannins and will leave a bitter taste and a feeling similar to cottonmouth. <br />
<i>D. lotus, D. digyna, D. discolor</i> are a few other edible kinds of persimmon.<br />
<br />
5. <u>Morus secies</u> - Mulberry's<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h8ZsQXghp5Q/T2H8FzRj3eI/AAAAAAAAAGE/emnmW7I_1pk/s1600/196047389998576310_1yXYzvIV_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h8ZsQXghp5Q/T2H8FzRj3eI/AAAAAAAAAGE/emnmW7I_1pk/s320/196047389998576310_1yXYzvIV_c.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Edibles:<br />
<i>M. rubra</i> - Commonly known as the red mulberry is the only native mulberry and when grown in their natural habitat don't have any severe issue with pests or diseases. A small red mulberry can reach 60' in height with a short trunk and spreading branches. Performance varies greatly from tree to tree, but even the trees not quite up to human standards are still an excellent permaculture option, feeding live stock for up to 3 months. The leaves are edible too! <br />
<i>M. alba </i>and<i> M. nigra </i>are two other commonly found, edible mulberrys.<br />
<br />
6. <u>Taxus species</u> - Also know as yew, are slow growing, evergreen plants that are very tolerant of soil and light conditions. All parts of the plant are extremely toxic, except for the sweet fruit of the <i>Taxus baccata.</i> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZT38dvJlR4A/T2H9jCpllrI/AAAAAAAAAGU/5-cEOF-n8ys/s1600/Taxus_baccata_arillo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZT38dvJlR4A/T2H9jCpllrI/AAAAAAAAAGU/5-cEOF-n8ys/s320/Taxus_baccata_arillo.JPG" height="252" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Taxus baccata</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Edibles:<i> </i><br />
<i>Taxus baccata</i> - The fruit is sweet and juicy but one should avoid the seed - It's toxic if bitten into (if swallowed whole it isn't harmful). You'll know if you've bitten into the seed, it's very bitter. That being said, those who have been willing to try the fruit find it very tasty, though some are put off by the slimy texture.<br />
<br />
Warning: If you can't clearly identify a plant, DON'T eat it. Better to be safe than sorry.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit:</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Missouri Plants</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Lizer Landscape</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Edgewood Garden</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">On Just a Couple Acres</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Summagallicana</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695625362282961243.post-66878493637600610392012-10-29T19:56:00.000-04:002014-05-14T22:41:02.941-04:00Drying Seed<div style="text-align: left;">
It's almost November and Beardsley Community Farm's yarrow, tansy, purple coneflower and black-eyed Susans are still going strong (gotta love Tennessee weather). Unfortunately, our marigolds and sunflowers have seen better days and are on their way out of the soil and into our (now empty) greenhouse - there they'll dry. Once dried, we'll then extract their seed for planting next year.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9iiw4Wbxhl0/UKO-09KmK0I/AAAAAAAABNk/0TQXUI6Dr-4/s1600/25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9iiw4Wbxhl0/UKO-09KmK0I/AAAAAAAABNk/0TQXUI6Dr-4/s320/25.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PUfZ5yzz95M/UKO_Ddk5rFI/AAAAAAAABN0/zHSdpP7AteE/s1600/IMG_5123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PUfZ5yzz95M/UKO_Ddk5rFI/AAAAAAAABN0/zHSdpP7AteE/s320/IMG_5123.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695625362282961243.post-49074304716158234562012-10-23T22:19:00.000-04:002014-05-14T22:11:48.243-04:00Bean HarvestAfter a bit of a late start, our heirloom and heritage breed beans finally dried so that we could harvest. Here they are - the fruits of our labor (an patience), a beautiful hodgepodge.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t6UjMmkdnSo/UKO2iHm8_dI/AAAAAAAABMI/bng0lbJYqgY/s1600/IMG_5369b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t6UjMmkdnSo/UKO2iHm8_dI/AAAAAAAABMI/bng0lbJYqgY/s320/IMG_5369b.jpg" height="320" width="231" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695625362282961243.post-46793905422246982342012-10-17T13:34:00.000-04:002014-05-14T22:41:30.097-04:00Mornings on the Farm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Before the stress of the day sets in, I've taken up surveying the half-acre around Beardsley's barn. It's extremely peaceful and allows me time to reflect as well as helps me notice the slight progressions of the season. This morning, collards glazed in dew, aging bird house gourds, and a luffa blossom, still furled from the night before, were particularly eye-catching.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o7JIz-LYOBc/UKO3d4BdioI/AAAAAAAABMY/4J-MALNJxlw/s1600/29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o7JIz-LYOBc/UKO3d4BdioI/AAAAAAAABMY/4J-MALNJxlw/s320/29.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8iaCIHpS6s0/UKO39Tj1P0I/AAAAAAAABM4/a0r7xlbQfok/s1600/IMG_5326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8iaCIHpS6s0/UKO39Tj1P0I/AAAAAAAABM4/a0r7xlbQfok/s320/IMG_5326.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-skW-600gyfg/UKO3zGhFP_I/AAAAAAAABMs/P3xbd1mZpkc/s1600/IMG_5350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-skW-600gyfg/UKO3zGhFP_I/AAAAAAAABMs/P3xbd1mZpkc/s320/IMG_5350.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695625362282961243.post-10794405717126283092012-08-29T23:32:00.000-04:002012-10-01T18:08:50.931-04:00Liquid Gold<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My first ever honey harvest!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RyvHs8Rl5vI/UFqR0geL6uI/AAAAAAAAA_g/GiXHT3iYDgk/s1600/Chosen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RyvHs8Rl5vI/UFqR0geL6uI/AAAAAAAAA_g/GiXHT3iYDgk/s640/Chosen.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695625362282961243.post-53583725998042134782012-06-30T22:56:00.000-04:002014-05-14T22:44:49.421-04:00Heat Wave<div style="text-align: left;">
Sweat. We were covered in it. Living with no air conditioning in the midst of this heat wave has been miserable. Matt and I went to bed last night at 11:45 p.m. last night, 91<span class="character">° F. We woke up this morning around 5:30 a.m. and it was 84</span><span class="character">° F... Sweat. Sweat. Sweat. So tonight Matt and I spent the evening at Barnes and Noble enjoying the air conditioning and looking through all the books. It was a nice respite from the sweltering heat and we found some new additions for our own bookshelf. Love the cover of this Lewis Carrol classic!</span></div>
<span class="character"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://img2.imagesbn.com/images/104040000/104045939.jpg" height="401" id="il_fi" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="300" /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695625362282961243.post-73173464070509648762012-06-17T18:05:00.000-04:002014-05-14T22:46:08.898-04:00Sweet Tooth<div style="text-align: left;">
My all-time favorite dessert is pie. Any kind will do. Well... no chess pie... or French silk. Gag. I do however love the creaminess of a yummy Thanksgiving pumpkin pie, the tartness of key lime and lemon meringue pies on a summer afternoon and nothing beats a nice slice of apple pie on a pleasant autumn day (ice cream on the side please). But making pie is something I don't have the patience for today. So my equally delicious alternative: cobbler! With our basket of freshly picked blackberries, Matt and I set out to make the most delicious cobbler ever. Well I don't know if it was the best blackberry cobbler of all-time, but it was certainly delicious, especially after sitting overnight - the juices from the berries and sugar soaked up into the dough.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-skQldfcY-8U/UGoTDuPgBvI/AAAAAAAABAI/IS3eZqVnTmQ/s1600/Blackberry+Cobbler.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-skQldfcY-8U/UGoTDuPgBvI/AAAAAAAABAI/IS3eZqVnTmQ/s320/Blackberry+Cobbler.JPG" height="318" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695625362282961243.post-50944210180531660192012-06-01T09:21:00.000-04:002014-05-14T22:47:31.650-04:00It's Been Real...Dearest Sony Vaio,<br />
<br />
I feel so alone since you left. No more iTunes, no more Facebook, no more Solitaire. I miss you and our five, beautiful years spent together.<br />
<br />
Yours forever,<br />
<br />
Ellie<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NOe8uxqVMdI/UGoXbTOZIEI/AAAAAAAABAw/MXV_--kAuvg/s1600/Computer+Poop.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NOe8uxqVMdI/UGoXbTOZIEI/AAAAAAAABAw/MXV_--kAuvg/s320/Computer+Poop.JPG" height="319" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695625362282961243.post-34040427897543633402012-05-28T11:04:00.000-04:002012-05-31T13:29:00.008-04:00May MarketThe farmers market through Instagram:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FltsteV38Qw/T8eI1aD_yTI/AAAAAAAAApc/NBMmVG5Uz7c/s1600/178924_10150892442787631_681052630_9772653_1705333824_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FltsteV38Qw/T8eI1aD_yTI/AAAAAAAAApc/NBMmVG5Uz7c/s200/178924_10150892442787631_681052630_9772653_1705333824_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8j8RwfJsMYc/T8eI2ODFIwI/AAAAAAAAApk/Ky55kPxAXiI/s1600/24bdb6328bee11e1a92a1231381b6f02_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8j8RwfJsMYc/T8eI2ODFIwI/AAAAAAAAApk/Ky55kPxAXiI/s200/24bdb6328bee11e1a92a1231381b6f02_7.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pRXazo4pD2k/T8ePdo9dmMI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/9QbcdjX2ASw/s1600/IMG_20120530_115900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pRXazo4pD2k/T8ePdo9dmMI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/9QbcdjX2ASw/s200/IMG_20120530_115900.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZPhqASBNPlY/T8ePcytqeRI/AAAAAAAAAsA/z_pqDudTNpk/s1600/IMAG0200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZPhqASBNPlY/T8ePcytqeRI/AAAAAAAAAsA/z_pqDudTNpk/s200/IMAG0200.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3OjyiYSO_x0/T8eI2YhFf_I/AAAAAAAAAps/QIRbaz4IOU0/s1600/385687_10150694237365843_658905842_10168350_1347603818_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3OjyiYSO_x0/T8eI2YhFf_I/AAAAAAAAAps/QIRbaz4IOU0/s200/385687_10150694237365843_658905842_10168350_1347603818_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mdArwv_sbu0/T8eI3-R_jxI/AAAAAAAAAqE/EIlbKhG70gQ/s1600/892a76eaaa7111e1b2fe1231380205bf_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mdArwv_sbu0/T8eI3-R_jxI/AAAAAAAAAqE/EIlbKhG70gQ/s200/892a76eaaa7111e1b2fe1231380205bf_7.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IGaHg_7LDI8/T8eI3WjRo5I/AAAAAAAAAp8/4gd0jDubhlM/s1600/554305_10150840928495843_414449050_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IGaHg_7LDI8/T8eI3WjRo5I/AAAAAAAAAp8/4gd0jDubhlM/s200/554305_10150840928495843_414449050_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kV4bgEFAcg0/T8eI4Lh_3-I/AAAAAAAAAqM/lZFoyb2vMlI/s1600/New+Picture.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kV4bgEFAcg0/T8eI4Lh_3-I/AAAAAAAAAqM/lZFoyb2vMlI/s200/New+Picture.bmp" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3M_LjtU6DJ4/T8eI21jGmXI/AAAAAAAAAp0/FbAMBlaJE6w/s1600/485645_10150840924490843_598626447_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3M_LjtU6DJ4/T8eI21jGmXI/AAAAAAAAAp0/FbAMBlaJE6w/s200/485645_10150840924490843_598626447_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-juKaDaQAS9U/T8eI5iujw-I/AAAAAAAAAqc/tBQHM256IBo/s1600/pattypan.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-juKaDaQAS9U/T8eI5iujw-I/AAAAAAAAAqc/tBQHM256IBo/s200/pattypan.bmp" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c9KqvprSANc/T8ePdE2zt0I/AAAAAAAAAsI/yt0qveTN2fc/s1600/IMG_20120530_115829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c9KqvprSANc/T8ePdE2zt0I/AAAAAAAAAsI/yt0qveTN2fc/s200/IMG_20120530_115829.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pTACXt9MtJE/T8eI45ZT7CI/AAAAAAAAAqU/E99k3cjjgKs/s1600/a8c4daa2a1b811e180d51231380fcd7e_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pTACXt9MtJE/T8eI45ZT7CI/AAAAAAAAAqU/E99k3cjjgKs/s200/a8c4daa2a1b811e180d51231380fcd7e_7.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695625362282961243.post-54502752755561763132012-05-22T23:45:00.000-04:002014-05-14T22:49:04.150-04:00Photos in the DarkMy first experience taking photographs in the dark has taught me:<br />
<br />
1. Auto-focus does NOT work in the dark (I need to get glasses so I can focus on subjects more clearly through the eyepiece)<br />
2. Carrying around and positioning the tripod sucks<br />
3. Taking photos at night in the city is super sketch. Thank goodness I had a wonderful husband to keep me company and give me a few tips<br />
4. Subjects that are interesting in the day are NOT necessarily interesting at night<br />
<br />
All in all, it was fun. I'm looking forward to experimenting more in the future. Here are a couple shots from the evening: <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R0zU5p822E4/T8eiiKt9JTI/AAAAAAAAAx8/Bf2ix8lcs40/s1600/IMG_4391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R0zU5p822E4/T8eiiKt9JTI/AAAAAAAAAx8/Bf2ix8lcs40/s320/IMG_4391.JPG" height="320" width="228" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OBa48A1sx6c/T8eiir4pv_I/AAAAAAAAAyE/LC7f4E9GcnI/s1600/IMG_4397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OBa48A1sx6c/T8eiir4pv_I/AAAAAAAAAyE/LC7f4E9GcnI/s320/IMG_4397.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e3XTFhR_aSc/T8eik0aMgCI/AAAAAAAAAyc/f3tD9IVxCjk/s1600/IMG_4425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e3XTFhR_aSc/T8eik0aMgCI/AAAAAAAAAyc/f3tD9IVxCjk/s320/IMG_4425.JPG" height="290" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tnCgvgj0wyo/T8eijD4iktI/AAAAAAAAAyM/16G9s-7uUzc/s1600/IMG_4416.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tnCgvgj0wyo/T8eijD4iktI/AAAAAAAAAyM/16G9s-7uUzc/s320/IMG_4416.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BFSmiXHYO3Q/T8eij8ErvdI/AAAAAAAAAyU/BViRboBuddU/s1600/IMG_4418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BFSmiXHYO3Q/T8eij8ErvdI/AAAAAAAAAyU/BViRboBuddU/s320/IMG_4418.JPG" height="320" width="189" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VPBxPa7wdXc/T8eih_E_LjI/AAAAAAAAAx0/QBj60Lh-njI/s1600/IMG_4381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VPBxPa7wdXc/T8eih_E_LjI/AAAAAAAAAx0/QBj60Lh-njI/s320/IMG_4381.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MV3MRQCCbPA/T8eimUaJEAI/AAAAAAAAAys/iukgkb_wqtE/s1600/IMG_4453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MV3MRQCCbPA/T8eimUaJEAI/AAAAAAAAAys/iukgkb_wqtE/s320/IMG_4453.JPG" height="291" width="320" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v8oPL4Ixlf0/T8eiloM77hI/AAAAAAAAAyk/bq6zC4crffc/s1600/IMG_4451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v8oPL4Ixlf0/T8eiloM77hI/AAAAAAAAAyk/bq6zC4crffc/s320/IMG_4451.JPG" height="320" width="209" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695625362282961243.post-32502650038871184402012-05-02T15:30:00.000-04:002012-05-24T14:48:46.239-04:00Market Season: Open<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZNgIhRT8_8s/T7vKMfGQIjI/AAAAAAAAAkI/hSRQyBwzYYg/s1600/IMG_4230+b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZNgIhRT8_8s/T7vKMfGQIjI/AAAAAAAAAkI/hSRQyBwzYYg/s320/IMG_4230+b.jpg" width="213" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-39nG0JyK4jw/T7vKQxBBhyI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/8igkrKvogv4/s1600/IMG_4245+b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-39nG0JyK4jw/T7vKQxBBhyI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/8igkrKvogv4/s320/IMG_4245+b.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1gPSwu-64ps/T7vKGnIEGAI/AAAAAAAAAkA/iaWV1-SM7Fo/s1600/IMG_4192+b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1gPSwu-64ps/T7vKGnIEGAI/AAAAAAAAAkA/iaWV1-SM7Fo/s320/IMG_4192+b.jpg" width="213" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-65fQ1IoAEog/T7vKDMHEh9I/AAAAAAAAAj4/q2hUn1Jz0Hg/s1600/IMG_4180+b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-65fQ1IoAEog/T7vKDMHEh9I/AAAAAAAAAj4/q2hUn1Jz0Hg/s320/IMG_4180+b.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f3EKMaUDNUA/T7vPeqX05qI/AAAAAAAAAkc/_9_OBVlJTLk/s1600/IMG_4306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f3EKMaUDNUA/T7vPeqX05qI/AAAAAAAAAkc/_9_OBVlJTLk/s320/IMG_4306.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0NC1gAqoYxo/T7vPh12vTaI/AAAAAAAAAkk/aknumFQ17A4/s1600/IMG_4348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0NC1gAqoYxo/T7vPh12vTaI/AAAAAAAAAkk/aknumFQ17A4/s320/IMG_4348.jpg" width="213" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fR8V-iMIsHY/T7vJ_Ek5v0I/AAAAAAAAAjw/cjsaEcxlnWY/s1600/IMG_4166+b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fR8V-iMIsHY/T7vJ_Ek5v0I/AAAAAAAAAjw/cjsaEcxlnWY/s320/IMG_4166+b.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yAZ5_tcUiWk/T7vPlz7Hs4I/AAAAAAAAAks/UQeP6RWsMXo/s1600/IMG_4358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yAZ5_tcUiWk/T7vPlz7Hs4I/AAAAAAAAAks/UQeP6RWsMXo/s320/IMG_4358.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My job with the farmers' market has officially started! So excited for the 2012 season!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695625362282961243.post-43196526026467781002012-04-25T09:58:00.000-04:002012-05-04T20:58:43.029-04:00ResilientA few days ago I mentioned that I've fallen in love with ornamentals for reasons beyond color. Another one of those new plant qualities I'm interested in is: low maintenance. Yes, hard work and consistent labor in your garden can pay off and give you a
yard that is the talk of the town... but honestly, who has the time? Or
the energy for that matter. This may come as a shock to most, but low maintenance doesn't just mean yews and oak trees. You can get a colorful, low maintenance garden by following three simple rules:
plant natives, plant long-lived perennials, and plant them in the right
spot! <br />
<br />
Natives are plants that originate from your area. These guys are well suited for your yard because well, they were growing here all on their own, long before you ever existed. They are adapted to your climate and need minimal to no inputs for success in your garden.<br />
<br />
Perennials are plants that keep coming back year after year (versus annuals that only last one growth season). However, you will find that some perennials tend to "burn out", get scraggly and die out in the center while still expanding outwards. That's where the LONG-LIVED part comes in - these perennials go above and beyond, coming back again and again, just as strong as the year before.<br />
<br />
Placement is key when designing a low-maintenance garden. Sure, black-eyed Susan's are stunning but unless you have a spot with full sun and excellent drainage, you are going to have to put a lot of effort into keeping that plant happy. Effort = high maintenance. I know it's hard to give up the plants you really "want" but imagine how much money, time and energy you will save by not having to water, fertilize and replace plants every year.<br />
<br />
Here are some of my new favorite plants for the low-maintenance southern garden:<br />
<ul>
<li><i>Erysimum</i> 'Bowles's Mauve' a perennial flourishes on infertile soil and blooms from summer to frost. Low maintenance.</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vsobOsdLSMg/T41zz6yGzUI/AAAAAAAAAOM/BbIypHQReFE/s1600/erysimum+%27bowles%27+mauve%27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="219" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vsobOsdLSMg/T41zz6yGzUI/AAAAAAAAAOM/BbIypHQReFE/s320/erysimum+%27bowles%27+mauve%27.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li><i>Sanguisorba officinalis</i> - Herbaceous perennial that blooms from May to
June and is known for its ornamental seed heads. But this plant isn't
just pretty to look at, it has an extensive root system great for
erosion control, it leaves are edible, great in salads and soups, and it
is very low maintenance... just don't let it get too dry.</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C_wwYMnMK28/T410afGQ4wI/AAAAAAAAAOU/DLBW7qobh8g/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-04-17+at+9.46.52+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="202" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C_wwYMnMK28/T410afGQ4wI/AAAAAAAAAOU/DLBW7qobh8g/s320/Screen+shot+2012-04-17+at+9.46.52+AM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li><i>Veronicastrum virginicum</i> a long-lived, slow growing perennial that
blooms from May to August. Tends to grow in tight clumps and are very
low maintenance.</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BBeF-SAXtMU/T411Aj-OQHI/AAAAAAAAAOc/35gj0TemRpY/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-04-17+at+9.49.19+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BBeF-SAXtMU/T411Aj-OQHI/AAAAAAAAAOc/35gj0TemRpY/s320/Screen+shot+2012-04-17+at+9.49.19+AM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i>Baptisia australis</i> - one of the most durable (once established) and long-lived natives. Blooms from May to June with showy flowers that attract butterflies. Tolerates all soils from clay to shallow and rocky, rabbit resistant, fixes nitrogen and is a great option for erosion control. Not easily moved once established.</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vBpv0z4Gh8o/T411QZuluWI/AAAAAAAAAOk/eGhOPZU8SRA/s1600/baptisia10deepblue2PCweb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vBpv0z4Gh8o/T411QZuluWI/AAAAAAAAAOk/eGhOPZU8SRA/s320/baptisia10deepblue2PCweb.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li><i>Cirsium rivulare</i> 'atropurpureum' is the ornamental thistle, not to be
confused with the garden thistle that so many hate. This thistle
produces elegant long leafless stems each topped with a magenta thistle
head. Due to its height, it's prone to lodging so plant with sturdier
grasses for support</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U_uBXoUqe0s/T412hcvBOXI/AAAAAAAAAOs/LhWxuyCEGyk/s1600/cirsium_rivulare.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U_uBXoUqe0s/T412hcvBOXI/AAAAAAAAAOs/LhWxuyCEGyk/s1600/cirsium_rivulare.jpg" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #6aa84f;">Remember: low-maintenance DOES NOT mean maintenance free!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photos complements of Pinterest</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695625362282961243.post-15727952900967771152012-04-23T10:05:00.000-04:002012-05-04T21:15:15.931-04:00Flower, Pick<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">So I have a bit of a fetish... with flowers. My love affair started at a young age, when on walks with my parents I'd escape from their view to pick every flower in sight from neighboring yards. I'd repeat to myself: "Flower, pick! Flower pick!" with every new specimen I plucked from the earth (roots and all). No flower was safe. As I grew older, my parents found a way to control my impulse flower picking by investing me in our own garden - every spring I would accompany my dad to Home Depot where I got to select flowers for our yard, some of my favorites being snap dragons, pansies and morning glories. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">As I've aged and gained a little gardening insight, my tastes have shifted slightly. My favorite flowers from childhood where chosen primarily based on color - I loved the multi-colored snapdragons fading from soft yellows to pale oranges then to pink. I loved the bold patterns of pansies for a pop of color in early spring and the bright blues and purples of the morning glories that engulfed our deck and mailbox in the summer. While I am still passionate about color, certain plants have sparked my interest for new reasons, the first being scent. There is nothing I love more than an aromatic garden. And when scent is combined with beautiful blooms, you really can't lose - this brings my to a new love of mine (an old love for many others): Roses</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">There is something so elegant, so antique about roses in the garden that has only just recently peaked my interest. Growing up I always associated roses as red, long-stemmed, tired/dated and unoriginal. I suppose I still think of stereotypical red rose arrangements that way, but roses in the garden have a much more wild, laid-back splendor to them, especially the climbing varieties. Here are some of my favorite climbers for the Tennessee gardener:</span></div>
<ul style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<li><span style="font-size: small;">The Sombreuil is a great white climber. It has beautiful large milky flowers with a honey-like
smell - great for cut flowers. Does extremely well in the hot and humid
climates, zones 7 and above - perfect for our Tennessee climate.</span></li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cxqUOvR6uvk/T4guR--P36I/AAAAAAAAAN0/o--tGahbUPk/s1600/sombriel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cxqUOvR6uvk/T4guR--P36I/AAAAAAAAAN0/o--tGahbUPk/s320/sombriel.jpg" width="288" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<li><span style="font-size: small;">My next favorite comes from David Austin. A Shropshire Lad has tightly cupped flowers that open out into beautiful rosettes with age, packed full of petals. The flowers are large and with gorgeous color - the soft salmon color is of the middle fading to a pale peach as the petals age. The fragrance is fantastic, very fruity like many tea roses. In zones 6 or above (ahem... Tennessee) it can be grown as a climber, reaching heights of 8 feet. Too much heat, however, encourages green growth costing it's owner a repeat flowering.</span></li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6yFndVTnbuE/T4gwsbtS_6I/AAAAAAAAAN8/jUCiLZxcNOg/s1600/1927.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6yFndVTnbuE/T4gwsbtS_6I/AAAAAAAAAN8/jUCiLZxcNOg/s320/1927.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<li><span style="font-size: small;">And last but not least, another David Austin beauty -Snow Goose. A repeat flowering rambler
growing to 8 to 10 feet in height. It bears large amounts of small, white pompon-like flowers. These flowers boast tons of narrow petals, giving it their pompon-like appearance. To me, they resemble a more full, daintier star magnolia flower. They have relatively thornless stems and straight and are easy to train across a wall, fence or trellis.
Very disease-free and reliable.</span></li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tHAUdcTIoDU/T4gyHM5ObJI/AAAAAAAAAOE/AjtU1qXYDwE/s1600/e3383.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tHAUdcTIoDU/T4gyHM5ObJI/AAAAAAAAAOE/AjtU1qXYDwE/s320/e3383.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Gardens hold some of my fondest memories from childhood and are probably
why I gravitated towards plant sciences in college. My parents
cultivated my love of plants and the outdoors from an early age and for
that, I am forever thankful. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit: Pinterest</span></div>
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695625362282961243.post-81571211169359318892012-04-08T22:14:00.000-04:002012-05-31T10:43:50.187-04:00Sunday StrollOne of my favorite things of all time is walking around the city, identifying plants and snapping photos with the hubby. James Agee Park is one of our favorite stops because it's located just a couple blocks down from our apartment, has well maintained plantings (something is always in bloom) and is frequented by tons of dogs (since we can't get one, I've become obsessed with other peoples dogs). This weekend, irises were in bloom!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7bC8ukIduIA/T8eBWjp-5aI/AAAAAAAAAow/xGaSN5xTX-E/s1600/IMG_4069b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7bC8ukIduIA/T8eBWjp-5aI/AAAAAAAAAow/xGaSN5xTX-E/s320/IMG_4069b.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EuXkg1btQK4/T8eBZiJPS6I/AAAAAAAAAo4/TsVx7h3WXXw/s1600/IMG_4081b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EuXkg1btQK4/T8eBZiJPS6I/AAAAAAAAAo4/TsVx7h3WXXw/s320/IMG_4081b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yMsi8azka5U/T8eBcDDhEEI/AAAAAAAAApA/haWVKe4Mc50/s1600/IMG_4108b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yMsi8azka5U/T8eBcDDhEEI/AAAAAAAAApA/haWVKe4Mc50/s320/IMG_4108b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695625362282961243.post-76051532997083136652012-04-04T10:12:00.000-04:002012-05-25T22:47:35.566-04:00Tasty Blooms<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7F7cAd2KIZ4/T414Ob5w_UI/AAAAAAAAAO0/nnF3kYafDIg/s1600/monarda_didyma_jd_lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="208" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7F7cAd2KIZ4/T414Ob5w_UI/AAAAAAAAAO0/nnF3kYafDIg/s320/monarda_didyma_jd_lg.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bee Balm</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
With spring in full bloom I feel it's only appropriate to post about some of my favorite edible flowers in the garden/wild. Flowers are a great way to spice up a spring dish - each with their own unique flavor and style. Eating flowers is nothing new - but did you know all of these flowers were edible?<br />
<ol>
<li>Arugula - <i>Eruca vesicaria - </i>a spicy and nutty flavor with hints of pepper. Eat fresh in a salad or on a sandwich</li>
<li>Basil - <i>Ocimum basilicum</i> - varies by variety but tends to taste similar to the leaves only softer. Eat fresh in a salad, sprinkle over pasta or as a garnish with grilled fish and vegetables</li>
<li>Bee Balm - <i>Monarda didyma, </i>and other species - spicy flowers with hints of mint and citrus. Replace any call for oregano with bee balm flowers; petals are great in fruit salads as well </li>
<li>Garden Chives - <i>Allium schoenoprasum</i> - mild onion flavor great in cheeses and used fresh in salads or soups</li>
<li>Clover - Trifolium species - soft sweet flavor that is excellent sauteed for a wild granola recipes. Raw flowers can be hard to digest</li>
<li>Dandelion - <i>Taraxacum officianalis - </i>only eat the petals. Young buds sauteed in butter taste similar to mushrooms. Young flowers are honey-like but get bitter with age. Flowers can be battered and fried to make a delicious dandelion fritter</li>
<li>Gladiolas - <i>Gladiola spp</i> - remove anthers before consuming. Flowers have a soft lettuce flavor and are great fresh in salads or as decorative containers for sweet or savory sauces</li>
<li>Impatiens - <i>Impatiens wallerana</i> - almost tasteless, good fresh for adding interest to a dish or floated in a spring cocktail</li>
<li>Lavender - Lavendula species - floral and perfume-like. Great for making lavender honey sorbets, cheeses and savory dishes that call for rosemary, just simply swap the two. A fresh sprig is a great garnish for champagne. Remember, a little goes a long way; too much lavender can make any dish bitter</li>
<li>Lilac - <i>Syringa vulgaris</i> - strong lemony-sweet flavor to slightly bitter, varying greatly from plant to plant. Great as a garnish for cakes, sorbets and of course candied</li>
<li>Marigold - <i>Tagetes tenuifolia</i> - citrus flavor with a hint of bitterness. Can be substituted for saffron and the petals are great in salads </li>
<li>Pansy - <i>Viola x wittrockiana</i> - sweet to soft grass-like flavor, petals are very mild in flavor. Can be candied, used in fruit salads and green salads and are a beautiful garnish for desserts, sorbets and soups</li>
<li>Sunflower - <i>Helianthus annus</i> - when the buds are forming, pluck and steam. tastes similar to artichoke.</li>
<li>Violet - Viola species - sweet and nectar-like. For uses, see pansy</li>
</ol>
A word of caution: when on the hunt for unusual edibles make sure you know exactly what you're about to consume. If you have any doubt when it comes to identifying an edible flower or have severe pollen allergies, better to be safe than sorry - leave it be. Do not eat flowers from garden centers, nurseries or florists.
These flowers are NOT considered food crops and may be sprayed with
large amounts of pesticide. Never collect flowers by the roadside due to possible contaminates.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">US Forest Service</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695625362282961243.post-30151422441247028392012-03-28T11:18:00.000-04:002014-05-14T22:54:16.315-04:00Spring, Already?After the chaos/high stress of our wedding, Matt and I wanted to do nothing more than sit, read, sleep and eat. Luckily with his spring break so perfectly timed and Matt's parent's mountain home being unoccupied, we got to do just that. In between all that relaxing we took to the perennial garden, planting some bee balm, wormwood, creeping thyme, lavender, and more. We also got to capture some of the existing flora in bloom. Enjoy.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ELef_d0jx7A/T4boa2BM3PI/AAAAAAAAALg/l8J1h5HXUXU/s1600/floral+%252810%2529b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ELef_d0jx7A/T4boa2BM3PI/AAAAAAAAALg/l8J1h5HXUXU/s320/floral+%252810%2529b.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hMs8xWFMQsE/T4boc5sKwII/AAAAAAAAALo/5eV1VHnRgMs/s1600/floral+%252814%2529b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hMs8xWFMQsE/T4boc5sKwII/AAAAAAAAALo/5eV1VHnRgMs/s320/floral+%252814%2529b.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IFm57qGi9yE/T4bonZAN3fI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/HZp2jFy5ATk/s1600/floral+%25285%2529b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IFm57qGi9yE/T4bonZAN3fI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/HZp2jFy5ATk/s320/floral+%25285%2529b.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6c2wYS-9nMg/T4booh1ZnkI/AAAAAAAAAMY/NRUKnyDmrxY/s1600/floral+%252877%2529b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6c2wYS-9nMg/T4booh1ZnkI/AAAAAAAAAMY/NRUKnyDmrxY/s320/floral+%252877%2529b.jpg" height="201" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--tatyVY6wcU/T4bqT169GDI/AAAAAAAAAMg/rMc-hOKnU7g/s1600/floral+%2528249%2529b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--tatyVY6wcU/T4bqT169GDI/AAAAAAAAAMg/rMc-hOKnU7g/s320/floral+%2528249%2529b.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SaQAFJ1Ztjc/T4bqVzlSHOI/AAAAAAAAAMo/Z2n_7sSYGz8/s1600/floral+%2528256%2529b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SaQAFJ1Ztjc/T4bqVzlSHOI/AAAAAAAAAMo/Z2n_7sSYGz8/s320/floral+%2528256%2529b.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Aqsnh1GK3O8/T4bqa90IYzI/AAAAAAAAANA/6WOXIk1lZmE/s1600/floral+%2528303%2529bb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Aqsnh1GK3O8/T4bqa90IYzI/AAAAAAAAANA/6WOXIk1lZmE/s320/floral+%2528303%2529bb.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OKNfLcS4uDc/T4bqd9-U9eI/AAAAAAAAANQ/tNIZTbKmrBY/s1600/floral+%2528325%2529b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OKNfLcS4uDc/T4bqd9-U9eI/AAAAAAAAANQ/tNIZTbKmrBY/s320/floral+%2528325%2529b.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6695625362282961243.post-38522781919855788652012-03-21T15:33:00.000-04:002012-05-31T13:31:26.055-04:00Big 28<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yv5D25p7p-I/T4SMP1sEkYI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/XVOyctJe-ZA/s1600/Birthday+%2856%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yv5D25p7p-I/T4SMP1sEkYI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/XVOyctJe-ZA/s320/Birthday+%2856%29.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A very HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my very handsome husband</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b2jf75QOYqY/T8eSIZlt5MI/AAAAAAAAAuE/VronvYV71HA/s1600/Birthday+%2874%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b2jf75QOYqY/T8eSIZlt5MI/AAAAAAAAAuE/VronvYV71HA/s320/Birthday+%2874%29.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0