tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1066273542701441292024-03-05T01:41:13.642-06:00KathieB's Garden & Nature StoriesThe birth and evolution of a perennial garden in central Missouri USA with some digressions.KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.comBlogger66125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-30489591038327647402018-09-26T09:56:00.000-05:002018-09-26T19:46:47.428-05:00More Late Bloomers<br />
In addition to the Japanese quince and re-blooming iris, another resident of the garden is getting ready to bloom -- the Paulownia!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVGE4xUWqRRA3sV0Ft551XJK1NJl_ci45K-JQBHTIaYJmZYQhuC5vSY3MFkeOIF8xOocXmdbyXd4aFISmFLd8VEIVM3EOxK_4KPlmftggXz5jZq_X7EwH5X65uu72hOjjjBIKglfVjQtmc/s1600/PawloniaGrowth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="754" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVGE4xUWqRRA3sV0Ft551XJK1NJl_ci45K-JQBHTIaYJmZYQhuC5vSY3MFkeOIF8xOocXmdbyXd4aFISmFLd8VEIVM3EOxK_4KPlmftggXz5jZq_X7EwH5X65uu72hOjjjBIKglfVjQtmc/s320/PawloniaGrowth.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The squiggly twig is growing up. It formed a Y-shape. I was a bit concerned that it might split as the branches got bigger, but the trunk is sturdy. This shows the strange way the leaves grow: curly edges eventually straighten out. It's hard to tell from this angle, but the tree is about 30" tall.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr_GZnrzvdhbEBiCwejnVsyKH6M4AbxOkykUZWnXQUWOq7pS6FQf6LJqvTitMz_0MmxNFLozHvoVCUBVQCGU8QMs3F5Qn3A_NuhA4T-M4HshPGnC1RTm4va8Vk6eoH6j_4o5Undq0kVTAF/s1600/PawloniaBuds.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr_GZnrzvdhbEBiCwejnVsyKH6M4AbxOkykUZWnXQUWOq7pS6FQf6LJqvTitMz_0MmxNFLozHvoVCUBVQCGU8QMs3F5Qn3A_NuhA4T-M4HshPGnC1RTm4va8Vk6eoH6j_4o5Undq0kVTAF/s320/PawloniaBuds.JPG" width="274" /></a></div>
<br />
Here are the buds. I thought the blooms are supposed to be pink. The buds seem to be yellow. Guess I'll have to wait until they open to know.<br />
<br />
Raked up the mulch from the grass and pulled some weeds this morning. Too hot and muggy to do much more.<br />
<br />
My friend from Missouri is coming to visit next week. Her garden always looks pristine. I'm torn between simply apologizing for how rough my garden is and handing her a pair of garden gloves. 😏KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-35818047050783485942018-09-25T09:15:00.002-05:002018-09-25T09:15:33.532-05:00Splish, Splash, I was taking a bath ...<br />
Well, not really taking a bath, but there was six inches of splish-splashing happening over night. A fair amount of lighting and thunder came with it. This is nothing compared to the devastation in the Carolinas, but was something of a surprise after several days of predicted rain that didn't materialize.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCbPGKRgaa3srcDWzIrH4DyB-k7O6jmj3mHCFkrQMYh5Kal55v6dVdexcvM1WMIRO47gLdha8_v-JX-ktYyNgQxG2bldLfFfrri5E4urSki_Lk3i0YUkacEcZJVxAFy7Ed3yNRqnyOdm3C/s1600/rain+gauge.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCbPGKRgaa3srcDWzIrH4DyB-k7O6jmj3mHCFkrQMYh5Kal55v6dVdexcvM1WMIRO47gLdha8_v-JX-ktYyNgQxG2bldLfFfrri5E4urSki_Lk3i0YUkacEcZJVxAFy7Ed3yNRqnyOdm3C/s320/rain+gauge.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The gauge reads 6" exactly. </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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr2xxXHlvTAbnbWK1Fft13xvsXiPxE7Bs59Z_OXItypV5qo0wbS2wLSjLeRkhN_cgSCeP_f_K0A1BCIEZUwVUjIiMguF3SMV2FuG0opTQPiZ6o-xAbezqOTl76FoDfb9-rAZ_NrZPIJLmC/s1600/mulch+high+tide.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr2xxXHlvTAbnbWK1Fft13xvsXiPxE7Bs59Z_OXItypV5qo0wbS2wLSjLeRkhN_cgSCeP_f_K0A1BCIEZUwVUjIiMguF3SMV2FuG0opTQPiZ6o-xAbezqOTl76FoDfb9-rAZ_NrZPIJLmC/s320/mulch+high+tide.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The mulch was soon -- the grass is so soggy that there's no walking on it right now. I bought some edging that rests on top of the ground, held in place by spikes -- no digging a slot or pounding into the rocky dirt -- but it may be some time before it can be installed. It is only 1-1/2" high, so this deluge would have over-topped it, had it been in place.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpxiCT01fKgm6hxOW6Xe1pbQxEyOoSh9kCRgvPDzaAcRb0MnpXhTwtWd6Iu6XmfOjeK7EVE4Sui3Gle6PXOR9WqxGaN_UAzIqBqd44k0Jvhzi2C67kLL-O-ml8x_-Zg62rDI4i0KxcJfbU/s1600/mulch+wading+pool.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpxiCT01fKgm6hxOW6Xe1pbQxEyOoSh9kCRgvPDzaAcRb0MnpXhTwtWd6Iu6XmfOjeK7EVE4Sui3Gle6PXOR9WqxGaN_UAzIqBqd44k0Jvhzi2C67kLL-O-ml8x_-Zg62rDI4i0KxcJfbU/s320/mulch+wading+pool.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The mulched area in Buddha's realm turned into a wading pool. Buddha got a new coat of paint a few days ago. He was safe in the garage in the spray booth during the storm. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It is too wet to get to the back of the yard to see what damage may have occurred. I don't think much, as it is a more rugged, less manicured area.<br />
<br />
I know I promised pictures of the new screened porch, but my heart's not in it. I'm disappointed with the quality of the work, capped by the skylight leaking last night. :( I do like sitting out there. :)KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-33147978084507670762018-09-14T09:19:00.001-05:002018-09-14T09:19:56.385-05:00A Confused Iris<br />
This morning I spotted an iris in bloom and buds on the Japanese quince bush. Really? In September? Go figure.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBLvUj7XdbPFRmLJSoeeqUOP94Zj3cLKm5R-ykWyS8TEcFIUcUNepUyxgqUxgek321VYAp6dv85Iig87_mmW2g_mmmLKpT0KXtdQ4PCTj4tWc7eykUqvAYWo0BnuT_esCrsINNmwrcCH0v/s1600/20180914-IrisBlooming.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBLvUj7XdbPFRmLJSoeeqUOP94Zj3cLKm5R-ykWyS8TEcFIUcUNepUyxgqUxgek321VYAp6dv85Iig87_mmW2g_mmmLKpT0KXtdQ4PCTj4tWc7eykUqvAYWo0BnuT_esCrsINNmwrcCH0v/s320/20180914-IrisBlooming.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The hummingbirds are still coming to the feeder, but not as many as a few weeks ago. I believe migration has begun. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It has taken a month, but the screened porch is nearing completion. Just a few minor items that should be taken care of today. Can't wait to get the indoor-outdoor rug down and furniture set up. Photos to come. :) </div>
<br />KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-17944925774194668352018-08-14T19:37:00.001-05:002018-08-14T19:37:21.951-05:00A Construction Emergency?<br />
Nick the Builder and his crew came last Friday and took down the gutter pipe and prepped the existing fascia boards to accept the rafters for what will be the new roof on the screened porch. I expected them around 9 am, but they rolled in around noon and worked until 7 pm. They left with a promise to be back at 9 am on Monday. Well, they arrived closer to 11:30 am, but at least they got the bulk of the framing up.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNG8dOUoBeoag0njxVjt9gozQ_nFSaOGACdx_qNMV5c95Dkt3b3kJ0crOQkmt1tji0UD3hAiTLpWfoNJhrs5un1Q9XwUUXw-egUjEaSPqCtULMCxtcy6di16KBKFbAxY6768y5T8ymedH3/s1600/ScreenPorchFramed1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNG8dOUoBeoag0njxVjt9gozQ_nFSaOGACdx_qNMV5c95Dkt3b3kJ0crOQkmt1tji0UD3hAiTLpWfoNJhrs5un1Q9XwUUXw-egUjEaSPqCtULMCxtcy6di16KBKFbAxY6768y5T8ymedH3/s320/ScreenPorchFramed1.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVXjCj-g5W1o2JFcURI_eaRli9mciQ-ZH0m328xnO_vl5aVsvdp8sDyq3hAulJsDsR96zeJOaOyQGZuaHWEDSGRNj1-JdRhSPAzU1tLWQqWcmTk-zKzgovKKaxYAtTjHi_YFl1hyJwGRkV/s1600/ScrreenPorchFramed2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVXjCj-g5W1o2JFcURI_eaRli9mciQ-ZH0m328xnO_vl5aVsvdp8sDyq3hAulJsDsR96zeJOaOyQGZuaHWEDSGRNj1-JdRhSPAzU1tLWQqWcmTk-zKzgovKKaxYAtTjHi_YFl1hyJwGRkV/s320/ScrreenPorchFramed2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
I'm already in love with it and was eagerly awaiting their arrival this morning (Tuesday) when I received a text. They "might" be able to get here in the afternoon -- a construction emergency. Emergency? Short of a building collapsing on somebody's grandmother, I'm having a hard time imagining the shape of a construction emergency. They didn't get here this afternoon. They left several large saws, nail guns, tool boxes and other stuff here, so I'm assuming they <i>meant</i> to be back this morning. Whatever the emergency, they were not fully armed. Am hoping they'll be back in the morning, but not counting on it.KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-36162391333901810092018-08-11T17:14:00.001-05:002018-08-11T17:20:34.757-05:00The Front Yard Cries for Attention<br />
Our front yards are mowed and generally tended by a lawn service, the cost of which is included in our monthly home owners assessment fee. They mow, edge, prune bushes, and spread pine straw where required. In general, they maintain what the builders provided when the homes were built. Any additions, like a different kind of mulch, ground cover, trees, etc., are the responsibility of the home owner. The trees were planted by the builder, but somehow they aren't covered by the maintenance program.<br />
<br />
So, when I discovered an army of caterpillars* greedily devouring my oak tree yesterday, I hit the panic button. Soon discovered that the tree people I found on line were eager to remove the tree, but none of them would deal with the caterpillars. So, this morning I hied over to Walmart and bought a bottle of Sevin Ready-to-Spray pesticide and a pair of long-handled loppers and went on the attack.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWHI42KlMahTXbLfwhFgtcBEkPUKVsUlVd-cu-3tbNj_1kKPSVjlhJq0kkfonVsZYit6EE9CM0tCWNJeG0aNrpx014_M3iOjee3AGARGpFnJFy0NKVBZEl5QXFQmRpuaACIOymYgKV5f9V/s1600/Caterpillars01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="714" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWHI42KlMahTXbLfwhFgtcBEkPUKVsUlVd-cu-3tbNj_1kKPSVjlhJq0kkfonVsZYit6EE9CM0tCWNJeG0aNrpx014_M3iOjee3AGARGpFnJFy0NKVBZEl5QXFQmRpuaACIOymYgKV5f9V/s320/Caterpillars01.JPG" width="268" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The caterpillars very conveniently had arranged themselves in bunches. It appeared from the previous damage that they started at the end of the branch and ate their way to the trunk of the tree before moving on to the next branch. I say convenient, as it made a relatively easy job of spraying several at the same time. One cluster was well above my head. I was afraid I'd have to climb a ladder to get to it, but the spray stream was strong enough to hit it from the ground. Sorry this photo is so blurry, but I wasn't eager to get closer, so this is a blow-up.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The caterpillars appeared to die almost immediately, as all movement stopped. I was afraid they'd come raining down on my head, but they stuck to the stem of the leaf they were eating. Tomorrow I'll get out the long-handled loppers and prune away the branches with the most damage. They are all fairly small in diameter and down low.<br />
<br />
I would have done it this morning, but I tackled another bit of landscaping instead.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8_LV9ixKmP933yVxY96z0p5TItZvU9QaOKr5djNpvN5XUwbuy29zPca04ODbcjgNyY-kkYeKH4JEXDFC3vrG3k0FdQcKB-8zsCZVdcBD0LvsevJTEvoxiLSVmJ_ERme-5ioR9PVjrvsGD/s1600/FrontBeforeTrim.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="656" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8_LV9ixKmP933yVxY96z0p5TItZvU9QaOKr5djNpvN5XUwbuy29zPca04ODbcjgNyY-kkYeKH4JEXDFC3vrG3k0FdQcKB-8zsCZVdcBD0LvsevJTEvoxiLSVmJ_ERme-5ioR9PVjrvsGD/s320/FrontBeforeTrim.JPG" width="292" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The area beneath the tree has a faux brick edging that is supposed to contain the vinca ground cover. Nobody told the vinca, and it crossed the edging and was heading toward the driveway. The lawn service trimmed the bush that you see here, but ignored the vines, so I'm assuming that's outside of their purview. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I attacked the vinca and the knockout roses that are under the dining room windows.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7xJaqnzGvEXJvoakJe9-Z_BgabJJRNfyXr7oysm-ntLq4vfc7D5_597D9-GUtQs089qON0W72SWIzjS6apKFSIHLDob1tTF9gccAgJMaxYFgsbJT0SK6P3_C3NWkHK1s1l-NlhKw66Vnu/s1600/Front02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="596" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7xJaqnzGvEXJvoakJe9-Z_BgabJJRNfyXr7oysm-ntLq4vfc7D5_597D9-GUtQs089qON0W72SWIzjS6apKFSIHLDob1tTF9gccAgJMaxYFgsbJT0SK6P3_C3NWkHK1s1l-NlhKw66Vnu/s320/Front02.JPG" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The roses had been reaching out over the sidewalk, putting visitors in jeopardy as they approached the front door. And voila! The faux bricks have reappeared!</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2TxLtQOxbPdVUptf_FVQmBurZlFQeOSfu6jYSj187iafwdznfMbHIKWWoE64QDry8kOcwIer1hr80EtmfxWhZGtqnSammbywxo_94H_5rpGalmHaDA4ECVXjAB5fj9aBN_bvffciiqCya/s1600/Front01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="630" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2TxLtQOxbPdVUptf_FVQmBurZlFQeOSfu6jYSj187iafwdznfMbHIKWWoE64QDry8kOcwIer1hr80EtmfxWhZGtqnSammbywxo_94H_5rpGalmHaDA4ECVXjAB5fj9aBN_bvffciiqCya/s320/Front01.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Compare this photo with the before photo above. The clippings from this side and the other side of the flower bed filled a large plastic yard waste bag.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0y92S5dvCMuxftHjNPAKTCkZ6VvhCj8iP0O5nytgUPp7mgJgFO6-40VdjbWqtF2XsKB-OI_4rGjM_Vdqu3SxQod-KDa_uwFb1f2mrqjmpC7DCFPMcT6FMQ8wAggvzM5BMQrt8l7OQuS2w/s1600/Front03.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0y92S5dvCMuxftHjNPAKTCkZ6VvhCj8iP0O5nytgUPp7mgJgFO6-40VdjbWqtF2XsKB-OI_4rGjM_Vdqu3SxQod-KDa_uwFb1f2mrqjmpC7DCFPMcT6FMQ8wAggvzM5BMQrt8l7OQuS2w/s320/Front03.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">This side of the flower bed was also overgrown with escaping vinca. The greenery in front of the tree is balloon flowers past their bloom. I deadheaded them, so that part also looks better. The holly bush at left was trimmed last week by the landscaping crew. They ignored the Knockout roses. I cut back the bushes on the right, but the ones in the middle still need attention. I wasn't too eager to push my way in among the thorns to reach them, never mind a mild reluctance to encounter a snake or two in all of that greenery. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So much for the front yard. As we segue to the back yard, do you see that white rectangular item in the open garage door? It's a bundle of shingles for the screened porch. Yes! Construction has begun. Nothing much to see so far. The material are all stacked on the patio, and the gutter has been taken down and the initial framing for the roof beams are up. Come Monday morning, Nick the Builder assures me that they will be framing it up.<br />
<br />
I added a second hummingbird feeder in the back yard. It took the little hummers about 20 minutes to find it. Both feeders are busy from dawn to dusk. The numbers appear to have increased. Apparently, if you feed them, they will come. :)<br />
<br />
Still dealing with the pigeon situation. Some friends suggested that a plastic snake would scare them off. One said a piece of electric cord on a window sill was enough to scare away the birds. Not having a fake snake in the cupboard, I used what I had on hand -- a black bungee cord.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9n4bkyoHU8UqE5NdLmP6N6cuWT6w4HX81humfwwxLqQJ_gYerIfrkzvgewDyT-Tp6VBvMWyoSl6hLhutNdo3lGHtTA0k8qcXLxwhLB4R9I0RoLIZJJ8ti4tHMX5QgZXROd56UhjislP14/s1600/BungiSnake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="655" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9n4bkyoHU8UqE5NdLmP6N6cuWT6w4HX81humfwwxLqQJ_gYerIfrkzvgewDyT-Tp6VBvMWyoSl6hLhutNdo3lGHtTA0k8qcXLxwhLB4R9I0RoLIZJJ8ti4tHMX5QgZXROd56UhjislP14/s320/BungiSnake.JPG" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">I put it down at dusk one evening. The next morning the pigeons were stomping around as usual. It didn't faze them a bit. I'm a bit leery of using a fake snake, as if it does work for the pigeons, it may scare off the smaller birds, too. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This entry is getting a bit long, but I have one more photo to share.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh43XB5fuqqF6IN1eL5UuEEviEJ6BxpxWRIzih_Ex0nuRZW-PCBLv1iNzk9EfqT93BGsZsiyRBKAkKc5H_8tpqLzXZpmVW4prkOgBZb-I3oDLclpv4vnvpf8Y06PiTlCfZwKsBWnfxTSpik/s1600/pink+clouds.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh43XB5fuqqF6IN1eL5UuEEviEJ6BxpxWRIzih_Ex0nuRZW-PCBLv1iNzk9EfqT93BGsZsiyRBKAkKc5H_8tpqLzXZpmVW4prkOgBZb-I3oDLclpv4vnvpf8Y06PiTlCfZwKsBWnfxTSpik/s320/pink+clouds.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The rain clouds were the lovelies shade of pink at sunset the other night.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
*Did you know that a group of caterpillars is called an army? I learned that today!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-46647441158935801652018-08-04T18:48:00.003-05:002018-08-04T18:48:30.277-05:00August Update<br />
Between the heat and the rain, the garden is growing well. Do you recall the dead zone in the center of the yard? Look at it now!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiytxMWr4uYb5K4Z3OYE1i3A_b3cN64mwuGLZJQJtDUCg4b5nmGVfiFRV8xqCe7xcRP7X0_DAD55R2wIDEASN-axNW2jvhcQDx8-kOzd0082eg5QlPYyWwdNlTYXWbwqLGfWhy3pcQNo_0_/s1600/lumpymowing.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="757" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiytxMWr4uYb5K4Z3OYE1i3A_b3cN64mwuGLZJQJtDUCg4b5nmGVfiFRV8xqCe7xcRP7X0_DAD55R2wIDEASN-axNW2jvhcQDx8-kOzd0082eg5QlPYyWwdNlTYXWbwqLGfWhy3pcQNo_0_/s320/lumpymowing.JPG" width="253" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Thanks to Kelly Landscaping Management, the Bermuda is filling in nicely. The brown areas on either side of the island are some stubborn fescue that was doused with herbicide last week. There is more fescue scattered here and there, but it will be dealt with when the Bermuda goes dormant in the fall. [Click the photo to see it larger.]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I think I need to suggest to Jody that he check his mower's setting. The grass looks like oversized corduroy ribs.<br />
<br />
I figured out what to put in place of the two Rose of Sharon bushes that died. <a href="http://www.appalachianhistory.net/2015/06/bottle-tree.html" target="_blank">A bottle tree!</a> Unless the toxic ground contains something that will eat iron, it should survive very well. I bought the bottles as a set with the tree. It needs three more large bottles at the bottom and a small one on the very top.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUFLMyVdimMZSKmnUNQ4QnYym5pDuipSLevKerE9rokbs_acQ-lnx-IHc5V-wB-o0HU675Tj-GMwHgJu-ePak_QxuXxficFreEOZFHrvDvdQqlcSpnE1p-dkdEBEPtYp-XKNpk496lB-6h/s1600/Bottle+tree.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="800" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUFLMyVdimMZSKmnUNQ4QnYym5pDuipSLevKerE9rokbs_acQ-lnx-IHc5V-wB-o0HU675Tj-GMwHgJu-ePak_QxuXxficFreEOZFHrvDvdQqlcSpnE1p-dkdEBEPtYp-XKNpk496lB-6h/s320/Bottle+tree.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The bottle tree can stay outside in all but freezing weather to add a flash of color to the island. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Another area of the garden that is suffering a bit is the planter under the bird feeder. The marauding pigeons really are destructive, flying rats.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8xD0j-AEAhGNAE1LcGPgWiDif-etvvzsW3HW5paM4DANZNuGyzDmSRb_GTbph4oi9xyioZnC39hShNa41j4eJiwjA_XU_3udFSI07VxLZxjT-eXlLa99GBpER2SedY_17c5Iko42pxKhK/s1600/lavender%2526feeder.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="560" data-original-width="800" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8xD0j-AEAhGNAE1LcGPgWiDif-etvvzsW3HW5paM4DANZNuGyzDmSRb_GTbph4oi9xyioZnC39hShNa41j4eJiwjA_XU_3udFSI07VxLZxjT-eXlLa99GBpER2SedY_17c5Iko42pxKhK/s320/lavender%2526feeder.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">All three lavender plants started out the same size. Something is nibbling on one of them to the point that it is much smaller than the other two. And the blossoms disappear from the larger ones. If it's not the pigeons -- which I've seen pecking and scratching the plant -- it must be the rabbit I spotted a week or more ago. Haven't seen it since, but rabbits can be sneaky.<br /><br />There were some purple flowers between the raggedy looking white ones. They disappeared completely. Pfft! Gone! Must have been especially tasty. Some plants are touted as being deer resistant. Would be nice to find some that are rabbit resistant.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On the positive side, a couple of volunteer impatiens plants have popped up.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj6m3qHtDxIS2Cql3zSHZazlaWgbVBoL0gHBmVgg3oCrZMwuArR-yPsl1V8TCx0nErn2zKTEw9bc-Mv-8fnANnnw72Kt_vpJPLwAWwzt3JMcmb1TwjKLLpk_2CtdEvLh2UA8hyphenhyphenSVjrwXlY/s1600/impatiens%2526Buddha.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="509" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj6m3qHtDxIS2Cql3zSHZazlaWgbVBoL0gHBmVgg3oCrZMwuArR-yPsl1V8TCx0nErn2zKTEw9bc-Mv-8fnANnnw72Kt_vpJPLwAWwzt3JMcmb1TwjKLLpk_2CtdEvLh2UA8hyphenhyphenSVjrwXlY/s320/impatiens%2526Buddha.JPG" width="203" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Had no idea there were flowers in this mulched area. The appearance of this lovely pink impatiens is a pleasant surprise. Side note: I have the spray paint for Buddha, just haven't gotten around to doing it. On the agenda for this coming week.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglz8K5fZKrCJGQ3z6mqKEcAYMB-UENX6Iq9CGo0kHXOzPu8OJOhKDsBYbLtpFDr07NP9rkiFoBbi0jr1xRRc7W6LldOlPfF2cyRtcjWRnYW7DjrNbh-NinEEZKbH6skEf5jB3v_Gk3P5dj/s1600/impatiensvolunteer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="687" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglz8K5fZKrCJGQ3z6mqKEcAYMB-UENX6Iq9CGo0kHXOzPu8OJOhKDsBYbLtpFDr07NP9rkiFoBbi0jr1xRRc7W6LldOlPfF2cyRtcjWRnYW7DjrNbh-NinEEZKbH6skEf5jB3v_Gk3P5dj/s320/impatiensvolunteer.JPG" width="279" /></a><br />
<br />
Another impatiens appeared about 2/3 of the way to the back fence. No photo.<br />
<br />
This paulownia is growing well, but not at all like the one that grew in our Missouri garden. The two that were planted behind the island got pulled up today. They were nothing but dead sticks. No sign of a root system. That mark the demise of all three plants from the Nursery Whose Name Shall Not Be Spoken. *sigh*<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtXVtg7hL9VecKvCKbIHchiotlsOHB_6lj1U7uS4wpiFTOdmq7A2aK3AcT_tUozfdOZAgSVDZnCTGVPkCaLSOxKrHvd40XTqx4fnXidnDk1_kbrstRIHv8ccrQIq7L2VyztGkqTlFqQ1ZT/s1600/paulownia.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="606" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtXVtg7hL9VecKvCKbIHchiotlsOHB_6lj1U7uS4wpiFTOdmq7A2aK3AcT_tUozfdOZAgSVDZnCTGVPkCaLSOxKrHvd40XTqx4fnXidnDk1_kbrstRIHv8ccrQIq7L2VyztGkqTlFqQ1ZT/s320/paulownia.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The leaves on this paulownia uncurl as they grow, and they are slightly fuzzy. The tree seems to want to form branches, too, unlike the Missouri tree, which send up a straight, single trunk with branches farther up, and had very smooth leaves. This one has two branches in a Y-shape, and the trunk is very short, even stubby. Have no idea what it will be when it grows up!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The hummingbird feeder is a very busy spot. I haven't taken a traffic count, but no matter when I look at it, one or more hummingbirds appear. There's plenty of nectar for all, but they spend a good deal of time and energy chasing away rivals. I think it is time to get a second feeder. I find myself cooking up batches of sugar & water nectar a couple times a week. They go through about 3/4 of a cup a day.<br />
<br />
Can you imagine the size of the tummy of a creature the size of your thumb? Just think how many sips it takes to consume that much liquid? Amazing!<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOko53nrPlujUtvKpTNoslJQRZF7_E5-VHgEOKVU6-fBTQRAy1p7aHjhyWQlgeLZfWcQ_lLTGr9NxQXkj5vdZRqld63orGLwukAtN84vFrWgGolKwgQqaFLGXTVwheewiT2EBk65Yne5e8/s1600/hummeratfeeder.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="529" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOko53nrPlujUtvKpTNoslJQRZF7_E5-VHgEOKVU6-fBTQRAy1p7aHjhyWQlgeLZfWcQ_lLTGr9NxQXkj5vdZRqld63orGLwukAtN84vFrWgGolKwgQqaFLGXTVwheewiT2EBk65Yne5e8/s320/hummeratfeeder.JPG" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">This feeder has a cup on top for water, meant to deter ants and other crawlies out of the goodies. Keeping it filled was a real chore until I got out the Lysol disinfectant spray and soaked the brace and fence with it. Haven't seen an ant since, and that was a couple months ago. Whatever it is in the spray that they find distasteful seems able to withstand our torrential rains. <br /><br />With the heat and humidity, I find that I need to give the feeder a good cleaning each time I refill it, as black mold grows quickly. It gets a good scrubbing with an old toothbrush, especially around the yellow faux flowers at least every other day. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Speaking of rain, the rain gauge registered four inches this past week. It was good to see the sun yesterday and today, but the humidity ... ugh.<br />
<br />
The big news is that on Tuesday work will begin on the screened porch! Can't wait to be able to sit out there and enjoy the flowers and bird friends. Yes, even the pigeons. :)<br />
<br />
<br />KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-75690192104699103862018-07-15T17:38:00.000-05:002018-07-15T17:38:56.744-05:00Ten Days Later ...<br />
Since the past post, ten days ago, there has been a burst of color and growth and a trip to the dark side.<br />
<br />
The color has popped on the crape myrtle. The flowers appear to be pink in the photos. In real life they waver between pink and coral, depending on the degree of sunlight and cloudiness. It's lovely in any hue.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwDKIsOz3dpe74Wemp6hzPgLbMELO1W7HSrYv8ZkszF58mfGmrb0AaQBhTewadmtig4ZaYo3RXG51KxBM_RFWUu5ywSYNZqKAla_Jo9p3vjFBIAscCLLo06z2PIv6v41pkOCqxi57J_cO2/s1600/crapemyrtle1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwDKIsOz3dpe74Wemp6hzPgLbMELO1W7HSrYv8ZkszF58mfGmrb0AaQBhTewadmtig4ZaYo3RXG51KxBM_RFWUu5ywSYNZqKAla_Jo9p3vjFBIAscCLLo06z2PIv6v41pkOCqxi57J_cO2/s320/crapemyrtle1.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip53XX8qyWyRyB-9xtJ44wPYxUeZfh3H4sohZrRMylnjYiYsgL1RggO2jKHzQ9Nvisi5auJQP3ZHmcenf7SonZlszGeNJsOOGE2RY8F9TJ65KPgydvmr5Oj3hg6JgzE2BPuQLLuzr-rcC1/s1600/crapemyrtle2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip53XX8qyWyRyB-9xtJ44wPYxUeZfh3H4sohZrRMylnjYiYsgL1RggO2jKHzQ9Nvisi5auJQP3ZHmcenf7SonZlszGeNJsOOGE2RY8F9TJ65KPgydvmr5Oj3hg6JgzE2BPuQLLuzr-rcC1/s320/crapemyrtle2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The growth spurt was enjoyed by the healthy paulownia. It is now taller than its red flag, and its new leaves are getting larger and larger. Dinner plate sized leaves are a feature of the mature tree.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZvyEKAOOsnQPjHZhHM3u6w9x-KM1YjapvUpOR_ixahtKjaXgq2eRa0YA0bCfTrDVo_M9FauLzR3VT1j-1s8qF03akrkufMyL9dCTZhVCecXD4xtlgBwzP9rTUHGTt0V9TZJOEZp3_vyxc/s1600/paulownia1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="787" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZvyEKAOOsnQPjHZhHM3u6w9x-KM1YjapvUpOR_ixahtKjaXgq2eRa0YA0bCfTrDVo_M9FauLzR3VT1j-1s8qF03akrkufMyL9dCTZhVCecXD4xtlgBwzP9rTUHGTt0V9TZJOEZp3_vyxc/s320/paulownia1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Notice the Emerald Green soldiers. Jody told me not to water them. I haven't turned the hose on them once, despite deprivation being contrary to my instincts. They are growing nicely. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
About that trip to the dark side ... almost all of my life I've held artificial flowers, especially plastic ones, in contempt. However ... after throwing out the deader than dead marigolds that had surrounded the statue, I surrendered. The ceramic pots will only accommodate 4-inch flower pots, which dry out quickly. With the heat we have been experiencing, keeping up with them was next to impossible, hence the death of the marigolds, and thus a trip to Hobby Lobby and the purchase of a stem of silk flowers and a large block of florist foam.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBKbTVXxZ_zxogdpCmXyI5E8egnnzh6PoqZbu9XbLVEO2sI8eYoGG3g6AdSIYxkdcErjJPDQ2uT7kNyW1wH_6Jl9bBbsz3ulyYF5_kzRvJc3x_T6s1SzYKWqACFUvuiLMXD31nSYJw2b7L/s1600/StatueSilkFlowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBKbTVXxZ_zxogdpCmXyI5E8egnnzh6PoqZbu9XbLVEO2sI8eYoGG3g6AdSIYxkdcErjJPDQ2uT7kNyW1wH_6Jl9bBbsz3ulyYF5_kzRvJc3x_T6s1SzYKWqACFUvuiLMXD31nSYJw2b7L/s320/StatueSilkFlowers.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Three of the four living Rose of Sharon bushes are beginning to bloom. The fourth is the one that experienced the miraculous recovery. I don't see any buds on it, nor do I expect to see any. It gets full marks for simply surviving! The other two bushes do seem to be dead. The leaves they had have gone from withered green to brown. Will leave them in place for the time being.<br />
<br />
On a separate topic: did I mention I'd like to screen in the little patio outside the back door? I ran my idea past one of the members of the Architectural Review Board, who wasn't thrilled with my idea to use a sheet of corrugated polycarbonate for a roof. I thought it would let in a lot of light. He thought it would look tacky and fly away in the first set of strong winds to come along. So I went back to the drawing board and emailed a new set of plans to the fellow who will be building it for me. I expect the estimate to rise dramatically, but the end result will be very nice.KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-15224321224605434412018-07-05T19:18:00.003-05:002018-07-05T19:18:47.112-05:00A Month Later ...<br />
Between the rain and the heat, precious little has been done by me. However, Mother Nature has been at work. Here's a quick rundown on how things stand as of the 4th of July.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguSewqLapDo7fKXFfZJZVx9huTUTQiotSNP8RAXcYcpG6GSlnHEfTuKUrA5k3zcI3leqGSONJm3zrlbcx8v_vQh5iWGSqDhepAL99VpWxdXI6YbHMooVEVPVQckGXlbmg-O4wKX98bN7ym/s1600/Crepe+Myrtle+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="470" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguSewqLapDo7fKXFfZJZVx9huTUTQiotSNP8RAXcYcpG6GSlnHEfTuKUrA5k3zcI3leqGSONJm3zrlbcx8v_vQh5iWGSqDhepAL99VpWxdXI6YbHMooVEVPVQckGXlbmg-O4wKX98bN7ym/s320/Crepe+Myrtle+2.jpg" width="235" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">First, the crape myrtle. It has produced a lot of buds. I'm a bit disappointed in the few that have opened. The catalog described the color as more coral than pink. I'm hoping that as more buds open it will take on a coral hue, but whatever it is, I'll be enjoying it.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0kO1HXVyVBSoBIk56A5gNEQe-g5SnhzNEvrZctm5A-_rosoX9vlUL26dK1K2NdWNu2fhmdVTq2LMnS3hHYbUAxqdCt8rE8WJsddMyOv6QvDni0VtGz2XKJRHcc2Xd4lLzeMM7JMctguxm/s1600/Rose+of+Sharon+recovering.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0kO1HXVyVBSoBIk56A5gNEQe-g5SnhzNEvrZctm5A-_rosoX9vlUL26dK1K2NdWNu2fhmdVTq2LMnS3hHYbUAxqdCt8rE8WJsddMyOv6QvDni0VtGz2XKJRHcc2Xd4lLzeMM7JMctguxm/s320/Rose+of+Sharon+recovering.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Remember the Rose of Sharon that had the microscopic leaves? Well, look at it now! It is filling out nicely and looking very healthy. I'm so happy that it got the time it needed to recover. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The two nearest neighbors of the recovering bush, which were putting out leaves from the get-go, now seem to be in distress. Their leaves are withering. They've had as much rain as everything else in the garden.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipp7acHthN7aJRy2A9LknCZqvIMLIYQ3nwacfhg65wJi9MKxurfCNYFtE-QDrtEDG9Pj6I7OigrSrUdxsVSTfyRc7pkYLA1zizxH-urBzjg4IUhg4qz4retVVEk8TDzo7MC3JkvIzgYqoK/s1600/Rose+of+Sharon+fading+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipp7acHthN7aJRy2A9LknCZqvIMLIYQ3nwacfhg65wJi9MKxurfCNYFtE-QDrtEDG9Pj6I7OigrSrUdxsVSTfyRc7pkYLA1zizxH-urBzjg4IUhg4qz4retVVEk8TDzo7MC3JkvIzgYqoK/s320/Rose+of+Sharon+fading+2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Difficult to focus the phone camera, but here area some of the wilting leaves on the Rose of Sharon right beside the one that is recovering. Will be interesting to see what happens next.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Next up, the paulownia trees. If you'll recall, I bought two of them bare root from the nursery that shall not be named. As of last week, I thought both of them were dead. Not so! One of them is looking like a dead stick.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhUyk8yFZ2zhTEK72fNuGZOgwuvJZSy2z5xpldMBSE8VyaC5ghz9Ofgod05U948CGDAjvbczV-pz1GRZz5rKe-woxijYECWUQOxtgo6lqzU76chqrEoVUNsBScY9HO-n8tZB9h9hrkHTqD/s1600/Paulownia+recovering.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhUyk8yFZ2zhTEK72fNuGZOgwuvJZSy2z5xpldMBSE8VyaC5ghz9Ofgod05U948CGDAjvbczV-pz1GRZz5rKe-woxijYECWUQOxtgo6lqzU76chqrEoVUNsBScY9HO-n8tZB9h9hrkHTqD/s320/Paulownia+recovering.JPG" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">But look at the other one --- there are little leaves sprouting from the base of the trunk. There may be hope for it yet.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Ath9h4qGQMlYknJzZRB3diSeC7h9l0YxGVjUdcxuOgyfhbrAnhqRQ97TeGRZ-SiOjh1N3ddTX5GrOnc_9cLsfsW2zOi2PZYEA6RJS6lg7BdAg5_imJ0qzpXZWqM9O8HGa89-iOASd9-M/s1600/Happy+Paulownia+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="435" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Ath9h4qGQMlYknJzZRB3diSeC7h9l0YxGVjUdcxuOgyfhbrAnhqRQ97TeGRZ-SiOjh1N3ddTX5GrOnc_9cLsfsW2zOi2PZYEA6RJS6lg7BdAg5_imJ0qzpXZWqM9O8HGa89-iOASd9-M/s320/Happy+Paulownia+1.JPG" width="217" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Compare with this paulownia, which came potted, not bare root. It is growing very well. This shot doesn't show it, but it is as tall as the red flag now.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhECthidHV-wNfn7Q0L8tYoPa-ph2tYv_zZybl-ce_fc5l98USxB0vdVuAmMGnsl3SYCqCM2aPVxf3apXYYn8rPcUzhHBCQAgDurmwRrfpp4hR2hHEf1ZTm12wGCETKfI45oUfsBg7J-vbo/s1600/Hydrangea+bush.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhECthidHV-wNfn7Q0L8tYoPa-ph2tYv_zZybl-ce_fc5l98USxB0vdVuAmMGnsl3SYCqCM2aPVxf3apXYYn8rPcUzhHBCQAgDurmwRrfpp4hR2hHEf1ZTm12wGCETKfI45oUfsBg7J-vbo/s320/Hydrangea+bush.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The hydrangea bush has produced two flowers, this one and another on the other side of the bush. I'm thinking I've learned the lesson with this. I pruned back like mad in the early spring without knowing whether it blooms on old growth or new growth. Since there is no sign of buds in the greenery, I'm now pretty sure it blooms on old growth. Oh, well ...</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh70e_e71SFJOl_EnUkmCQ3Nv2FMGl1lMALy_1AWAntRW4G0fqkWU-Bw82mdUyVPV2cY-Po3WwVXOZvAoMN6k6UZDCCosg7VxFWaRiIXbpUbcOYgriGe1yT3c9n2jYqvm3DRnriJkTWbmq2/s1600/Nasty+bush.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="548" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh70e_e71SFJOl_EnUkmCQ3Nv2FMGl1lMALy_1AWAntRW4G0fqkWU-Bw82mdUyVPV2cY-Po3WwVXOZvAoMN6k6UZDCCosg7VxFWaRiIXbpUbcOYgriGe1yT3c9n2jYqvm3DRnriJkTWbmq2/s320/Nasty+bush.JPG" width="280" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Remember the nasty bush growing under the fence? Joe cut it down to the ground but couldn't get out the root without destroying that section of fence. Well ... look at it now! It is in the side yard, not easily seen from inside the house, so it has escaped my attention until today. Guess who's getting out there tomorrow before the branches get too thick to cut with my hand clippers.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This morning I managed an hour or so of weed pulling, so at least part of the garden is looking passably good. I really need to get outside at the crack of dawn, before the temps climb into the humid high seventies to keep up. The balloon flowers are in dire need of deadheading. You can see some of them in front of the hydrangea photo above. The marigolds in pots around the statue on the island have curled up their toes. Not sure what to replace them with. The pots are small, and the heat dries them out so quickly that they need water a couple times a day. I haven't been keeping up. Buddha needs to be spray painted. And so it goes . . .</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /><div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-34814055024712651582018-06-07T20:01:00.001-05:002018-06-07T20:01:57.839-05:00Many hands ... or at least a few more<br />
As I age, I pay attention to what my body is telling me, and the day after the mowing it told me I needed some help. I put out an announcement on Nextdoor.com seeking garden help -- no experience necessary -- hoping to get a student in need of some summer cash. I got three responses.<br />
<ul>
<li>One was from a high school girl who disappeared as soon as she learned she was expected to be here by 8 am. </li>
<li>The second was a guy who would have done a good job but couldn't get to it for at least 3 weeks. I had looked at his Facebook page and was impressed by the remodeling he does. While he was here, we talked about screening in my little back porch area. I'm waiting for an estimate.</li>
<li>The third was a general handyman who said he could come on Wednesday and with his crew get the whole yard weeded and mulched. I thought he might be overestimating, but he was eager and able to come quickly so I hired him. This was after he quoted me $80 for the job and I talked him up to $120.</li>
</ul>
<div>
Bobby seemed eager to put down some kind of barrier cloth under the mulch, but I ixnayed that. I've used the cloth in other gardens. It does not prevent weeds, as the mulch provides a nice growing medium for seeds that fall into it, and when it comes time to take up the cloth or plastic, it will have rotted or decomposed -- in short, a hot mess. He told me about Preen, pre-emergent granules that are sprinkled under the mulch. I searched it out and read glowing reviews, so off I went to Home Depot and bought some. Also bought Roundup to spot kill any weed stupid enough to poke its head up.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So Bobby and Johnny (his partner) and a young man showed up at 8 Wednesday morning. Bobby told me he couldn't stay because he had a house to paint but that Johnny and Brennan would get the job done. I'd edged several areas the night before, so I showed them how I wanted the ditching done and they got to work. In an hour they had weeded and mulched the two forsythias. Then Johnny disappeared. That left Brennan the high schooler who, I learned as we chatted, was working with a finger on his left hand jammed and swollen and an injury to his right shoulder from a fall at his second job at a pizza place. Plus he hadn't gotten a good night's sleep and missed breakfast. I ended up making a sandwich for him as he hadn't brought any lunch. To shorten this long story, the day ended with Bobby and Johnny rushing through the last third of the flowerbed along the fence. Johnny allowed as how Bobby tended to promise more than they could deliver. No kidding. I'm happy to have a good bit of the work done but not really thrilled about the quality of the end-of-day efforts. Brennan was far more meticulous.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhswJBJjP1leYzd2J79pLO3-eLupPBzVbcH3CRw7X48nSy14hTf4fgOF0KYcwQc58rRpM9U8X8iICkSDbUaVVf-d-CYNCjw-fp5Ki8E8uYfR_7u4RRCrBy9KXU-FHdbpi9qYgEIfzR_xu06/s1600/Bushed+behind+island+-+no+mulch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="469" data-original-width="800" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhswJBJjP1leYzd2J79pLO3-eLupPBzVbcH3CRw7X48nSy14hTf4fgOF0KYcwQc58rRpM9U8X8iICkSDbUaVVf-d-CYNCjw-fp5Ki8E8uYfR_7u4RRCrBy9KXU-FHdbpi9qYgEIfzR_xu06/s320/Bushed+behind+island+-+no+mulch.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is the little mob of bushes behind the island BEFORE.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrnmo-StxdyhGUqqizsJ3UWpkuvXF7mdl95_PQ94I94nln_ukWI0XnBN61qdHnG-x1ok_W08wuijGmuwRpCNIBOL5TpEBIG7qhqLO7r1NeEpazUtWvB3orJKG3GsPJDUXkJWncCLgamj3P/s1600/Fence+and+bush+mulch+view+toward+house.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="455" data-original-width="800" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrnmo-StxdyhGUqqizsJ3UWpkuvXF7mdl95_PQ94I94nln_ukWI0XnBN61qdHnG-x1ok_W08wuijGmuwRpCNIBOL5TpEBIG7qhqLO7r1NeEpazUtWvB3orJKG3GsPJDUXkJWncCLgamj3P/s320/Fence+and+bush+mulch+view+toward+house.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Here is the same area AFTER weeding, Preening, and mulching. It looks much better. You can see the messy edging and haphazard mulch placement along the fence. This was part of the end-of-day effort. At least the weeds are gone, the Preen applied, and some mulch in place. I can use my trusty edger to clean up the edge. And truth be told, there are more weeds than grass back here, so there won't be the precise edge that's possible nearer to the house.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhlLOCF7ohU7QqAbqB8AkY85ibD9pNKumV9scYvhCIvsgYcam1TGEoXdU1EGPAy_QmIGyt50HXj0Aiytu9kitlSIFJYFhvsb_67GU6dQe5BxrMabmIaoTAYLTsRvNRxToDBQRxW6JQhYpL/s1600/Island+with+mulched+bushes+behind.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="418" data-original-width="800" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhlLOCF7ohU7QqAbqB8AkY85ibD9pNKumV9scYvhCIvsgYcam1TGEoXdU1EGPAy_QmIGyt50HXj0Aiytu9kitlSIFJYFhvsb_67GU6dQe5BxrMabmIaoTAYLTsRvNRxToDBQRxW6JQhYpL/s320/Island+with+mulched+bushes+behind.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">With the bushed mulched, the island is a more pleasant place to sit.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
While the work was being done on the rest of the yard, I continued my efforts along the fence.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOpxU09L4M-9fjEWyDs_byFVGvtAEnkE-Fvui4L2anOK_6fJ7Bhm5WLPLBSs9LnJlM3kB9hd4brrn1UOP5ZGnX9ik3IaoTp1ZBeX2Z-HiesGTR2vOVlZRcVAAEG8VKSnGUdQGZLTkiWfh/s1600/Forsythia+in+weeds.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOpxU09L4M-9fjEWyDs_byFVGvtAEnkE-Fvui4L2anOK_6fJ7Bhm5WLPLBSs9LnJlM3kB9hd4brrn1UOP5ZGnX9ik3IaoTp1ZBeX2Z-HiesGTR2vOVlZRcVAAEG8VKSnGUdQGZLTkiWfh/s320/Forsythia+in+weeds.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">This is as far as I'd gotten before the rains came. Hard to see, but there is a forsythia bush hiding in that patch of weeds.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgippFAuCnybmn4AXP4lFUR_PxLVR_F_F4P1XEl8-vxwrcpUwiOCtfaGfbqeXjfyZdKRb7N2_0OvL3ek2qoxUL7C7Bf7kq-OpxE-RfzFKzcfAoia8I7Jb4NcbG56dSa7MwxkdzB3vPjgkV3/s1600/Forsythia+with+canna+lilies.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="447" data-original-width="800" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgippFAuCnybmn4AXP4lFUR_PxLVR_F_F4P1XEl8-vxwrcpUwiOCtfaGfbqeXjfyZdKRb7N2_0OvL3ek2qoxUL7C7Bf7kq-OpxE-RfzFKzcfAoia8I7Jb4NcbG56dSa7MwxkdzB3vPjgkV3/s320/Forsythia+with+canna+lilies.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">When the day was done, the forsythia (left above) had been liberated and the five calla lilies that had originally ringed the statue were planted in front if it. Digging those holes with a hand trowel was a challenge. I dug out some rocks that were as big as my fist. <i>(Click the pictures for a larger image.)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There are still about 10 bags of mulch to be spread, but I can handle it. I want to add to the fence bed where the mulch is a bit thin, and the dogwood, paulownias and Emerald Green arborvitae still need to be mulched. If there is any left, I'll spread it along the right side fence, where there is currently just a strip of slightly weedy bare dirt.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggIaNu4YMNomxQAYSqmV93e0w4E_-4JlMsQ3jJ8H-MJTKO3x1r5IUdl7-bU-D2BqpOQ8RNKqO5mI5oYP9GuneONhSgJyga3cx9zAr5oztNLcqPTBCg6-N6hp0hxg72wYS1rlaN7Qy_GUBp/s1600/View+from+the+porch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="471" data-original-width="800" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggIaNu4YMNomxQAYSqmV93e0w4E_-4JlMsQ3jJ8H-MJTKO3x1r5IUdl7-bU-D2BqpOQ8RNKqO5mI5oYP9GuneONhSgJyga3cx9zAr5oztNLcqPTBCg6-N6hp0hxg72wYS1rlaN7Qy_GUBp/s320/View+from+the+porch.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">This is now the view from the porch. I can almost ignore the overlooking houses. The brown patches in the foreground are dead poa annua. It finally succumbed to the heat. The grass is quickly filling in, so it should be green pretty soon.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The bare fence on the right side of the yard looks bleak compared to that on the left. I've had an idea that will add color to the right side. I'm still pondering just how it will be done. Stay tuned. :)<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<span id="goog_1517494429"></span><span id="goog_1517494430"></span><br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-3251979431369385102018-06-06T10:18:00.000-05:002018-06-07T19:32:37.366-05:00After the rains ...<br />
After nearly three weeks, the rains have ended. We're promised a week of sunshine and climbing temperatures.Jody and his crew came by to mow on Tuesday, June 5. They did not have time to spread any mulch as they were still several mow jobs behind.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF63OTh4rulKaFxjk2tJd9_q5AtYoQrjhBXWdFnzSaYYtbJefuxv60UF3VCuAaK4NEjkEW1L0MeCSTNUxK4xNxLPubJlT0JkPVCLVDVd-EGaGYohkD7RWhbarzEwhUtgffyNwDUYHWTlmJ/s1600/High+grass+mow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF63OTh4rulKaFxjk2tJd9_q5AtYoQrjhBXWdFnzSaYYtbJefuxv60UF3VCuAaK4NEjkEW1L0MeCSTNUxK4xNxLPubJlT0JkPVCLVDVd-EGaGYohkD7RWhbarzEwhUtgffyNwDUYHWTlmJ/s320/High+grass+mow.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Three weeks of rain and the grass grew! It looked so much better after its trimming.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The three paulownias are growing, some better than others.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYcyCwZ18Zu4vjzbqBaYKyG3jweJuL2NGVbkdJ-1i9RN4JgESJ0h3j5BpKoqnpbh2nAQbH5ajLhLuJo8e2XB4JaLUstlQLNJyKo_Yk50oyZKpthPK9FVuezzuU90yBsoNA9Jum0cjz1AjR/s1600/Paulownia+Healthy+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="648" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYcyCwZ18Zu4vjzbqBaYKyG3jweJuL2NGVbkdJ-1i9RN4JgESJ0h3j5BpKoqnpbh2nAQbH5ajLhLuJo8e2XB4JaLUstlQLNJyKo_Yk50oyZKpthPK9FVuezzuU90yBsoNA9Jum0cjz1AjR/s320/Paulownia+Healthy+2.JPG" width="296" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">This is the paulownia (Empress Tree) tree that came from <a href="https://www.fast-growing-trees.com/search-results.htm?q=paulownia" target="_blank">Fast Growing Trees</a>. It is doing well. I was concerned that it might be the wrong kind of paulownia because of the initial leaf shapes, but the new leaves are shaped more like the ones I expected, so all is well. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSqruuPkigODAEt3RI32O1VHVERgFejBLv3NwMR3sYvDvqh_UM8rh0sPrNVcyBMt4f7Le4lFbP4wJDsSMbk8JIKwSR3YBfxLRuUGVKQJFFhyphenhyphendaHEK0MWlBvG-VkL3WPU01TLy5YTfPi248/s1600/Paulownia+Unhealthy+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSqruuPkigODAEt3RI32O1VHVERgFejBLv3NwMR3sYvDvqh_UM8rh0sPrNVcyBMt4f7Le4lFbP4wJDsSMbk8JIKwSR3YBfxLRuUGVKQJFFhyphenhyphendaHEK0MWlBvG-VkL3WPU01TLy5YTfPi248/s320/Paulownia+Unhealthy+2.JPG" width="204" /></a></div>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixaeZd9zDU9vc8QBD2TbGVzqU4euWIDyBxidh4mmkdz7LjverMhlPWOX1ZYmH6z5KiYCtaO31Ql-rBlRBcsjR0JRrA4gdLfjdWih4GFXYbWwjvHTUMTi7TdtfZmln9VaXaikyJuAns7EyZ/s1600/Raulownia+Unhealthy+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="779" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixaeZd9zDU9vc8QBD2TbGVzqU4euWIDyBxidh4mmkdz7LjverMhlPWOX1ZYmH6z5KiYCtaO31Ql-rBlRBcsjR0JRrA4gdLfjdWih4GFXYbWwjvHTUMTi7TdtfZmln9VaXaikyJuAns7EyZ/s320/Raulownia+Unhealthy+1.JPG" width="246" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">This paulowna and the one pictured above it are the two that came from a different online nursery, which shall remain nameless. I didn't check the business reviews and am kicking myself for the oversight. These two are not growing as well, although they were in the ground about two weeks before the healthy one. Note the curled leaves on the top one and the limp leaves in the bottom photo. Research tells me that these trees are not happy with extreme drought or extreme moisture. The ground they are planted in had soil amendments added but comprises more clay and rocks than where they healthy tree is planted. Perhaps it does not drain as well.<br />
<br />
These two are also putting out leaves in the expected shape, so all is good. My concern was that one kind is invasive and hard to control. This kind behaves. :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYrO4NbVIN4IHve8E0DxnDMvaFL50hF6HkX3JjOVeoWrqWCdSrwP7-w9vhVYPypDa4L1n_xtgy3_Kb37TO9T58M5Zxqjl3BAjj1iX4d9LySJP875U71HO5JkeJVs4jhCwKM_wJs74rhjur/s1600/Lavender+budding.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYrO4NbVIN4IHve8E0DxnDMvaFL50hF6HkX3JjOVeoWrqWCdSrwP7-w9vhVYPypDa4L1n_xtgy3_Kb37TO9T58M5Zxqjl3BAjj1iX4d9LySJP875U71HO5JkeJVs4jhCwKM_wJs74rhjur/s320/Lavender+budding.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The three lavender plants are growing well. They have begun to put out buds. Can't wait for the lovely, fragrant flowers to open!<br />
<br />
The ground is still pretty wet. I'm going to give it a day before I start the weeding and edging and mulching routine. My garden muscles are telling me they like the 3-week respite and will no doubt complain once I'm back outside.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Two new birds came to visit. I think they were a male and female Baltimore oriole couple. I haven't seen them since. They were too big to fit into the caged seed feeder and found nothing on the ground, so they apparently moved on.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNj0t2nZVnC7P0p15dB5TAZzejmi5J2FbR2Pa-5pKMO8mq6fvaPMFPHiebZ6E5Nsd5pAu7BpFdUE1vKdpwIbQVJgrKN9GKPdIFXcca8Brm_rknx1Djtyl1oKut78U7fuXfTeFLYz7s08cl/s1600/B+oriole.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="261" data-original-width="400" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNj0t2nZVnC7P0p15dB5TAZzejmi5J2FbR2Pa-5pKMO8mq6fvaPMFPHiebZ6E5Nsd5pAu7BpFdUE1vKdpwIbQVJgrKN9GKPdIFXcca8Brm_rknx1Djtyl1oKut78U7fuXfTeFLYz7s08cl/s320/B+oriole.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Sorry for the poor photo. I took it through the window. Didn't want to startle him. His colors were much more vibrant in person. His wife was a more muted version.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-14367147387844114732018-05-26T13:43:00.000-05:002018-06-07T09:57:44.058-05:00Edge, Edge, Edge ... Mulch, Mulch, Mulch<br />
I've been extolling the virtues of the step-on edger. It's time you meet it.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJIwFU9VGzWoRqo038v1UgXcTlsf1Ee42wP0YWELOfeeRsWH5csfPHNHiYQ9wYnrlJ0HCTPna2GE1kRjs19G-V_Fk56s5QmNk_wpT-6H7MW2-JA3uXe0IzTNAvLJmcUpPrP6rskLfE_OD/s1600/Edger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJIwFU9VGzWoRqo038v1UgXcTlsf1Ee42wP0YWELOfeeRsWH5csfPHNHiYQ9wYnrlJ0HCTPna2GE1kRjs19G-V_Fk56s5QmNk_wpT-6H7MW2-JA3uXe0IzTNAvLJmcUpPrP6rskLfE_OD/s320/Edger.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The Step-on Edger has a sharp blade that can be rocked through dirt and turf. It makes a nice, clean edge. The foot part folds up for storage. There's a rubber cover to protect the sharp edge of the blade. This rocky Georgia clay is going to take the edge off the edger right quick. It will have to be sharpened periodically. It's great for cutting off the bits of grass that attempt to infiltrate the flower beds.</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;"><div style="text-align: left;">
I can wrestle the bags of mulch into the wagon one bag at a time and pull it to where I'm working. My back was beginning to bug me as I leaned down to grab handfuls of mulch and toss it into the flower beds. I ended up pulling the wagon next to the little bench. Working from a sitting position is perfect. :) </div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRsnNIXoSXmYEuVMK7Rab2zuDVKyvX-1iOJTPDf4zl5cbLF01alsYq2KcS2fsA8_D0oRcC3Mgmm00u3C3avBR1hfHoFSPlm7QQZtHLbEpShYr7s2-RKcCC6wu8HHrb9Qw4zy6VnscddEKE/s1600/1st+Edging+%2526+Mulch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRsnNIXoSXmYEuVMK7Rab2zuDVKyvX-1iOJTPDf4zl5cbLF01alsYq2KcS2fsA8_D0oRcC3Mgmm00u3C3avBR1hfHoFSPlm7QQZtHLbEpShYr7s2-RKcCC6wu8HHrb9Qw4zy6VnscddEKE/s320/1st+Edging+%2526+Mulch.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Here is the beginning of the edging. Using the slit that the edger makes, I scrape the dirt up and away (toward the flowers) to make a trench. The layer of mulch will taper as it reaches the front, so the line will stay clean.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6HrhC97WzrB6cbdvWgIQNwSrVFpEnYZypBEQwS1Wv6HY6i3mpnDV0YIbYtVJKCCm9VdXuWNliXNJixuhS_FPIYazqEXPQypErqw6d6r7dhdVu1_arDzEfTk09zAzja3Q4OQLvZ5B3L8KW/s1600/1+bag+mulch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6HrhC97WzrB6cbdvWgIQNwSrVFpEnYZypBEQwS1Wv6HY6i3mpnDV0YIbYtVJKCCm9VdXuWNliXNJixuhS_FPIYazqEXPQypErqw6d6r7dhdVu1_arDzEfTk09zAzja3Q4OQLvZ5B3L8KW/s320/1+bag+mulch.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The first bag of mulch in the fence bed took care of the daylilies. It covered the length of that section of fence.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLUYs48C-GGn62Aj6VBER5qysnGsIBipmmO3mVc2gys9bP2yhbmIHkiaDltE0Rxp5uUIr0FMRQ3GozR_pf0CrjFAtfz5fGUX_pzEGb5qT-O4oX_dPgOYC6V683ncbFNbLrqymvzcW2hr6x/s1600/3+bags+mulch+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLUYs48C-GGn62Aj6VBER5qysnGsIBipmmO3mVc2gys9bP2yhbmIHkiaDltE0Rxp5uUIr0FMRQ3GozR_pf0CrjFAtfz5fGUX_pzEGb5qT-O4oX_dPgOYC6V683ncbFNbLrqymvzcW2hr6x/s320/3+bags+mulch+02.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The next section of the flowerbed is wider to accommodate the Japanese quince. The Balloon flower between the quince and the irises was nearly hidden under the large daylily to the right of the bird bath. I transplanted it before adding the mulch. In this picture, three bags of mulch have been laid. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That was the limit of today's mulching. Other parts of the garden got a little attention.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSI_iX8MyaIoA__fIOY1185l6WMU_oS3pJzF7si910O2dfexAYivJifmRtaXvCrIxcqBoXDjOpG-vtZW47YQsjafj1AtUDtqA7D4lL6B86lRdOz4RbyeARBKC7ve58dTfmpKfiYhTCVGUc/s1600/2+forsythia.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSI_iX8MyaIoA__fIOY1185l6WMU_oS3pJzF7si910O2dfexAYivJifmRtaXvCrIxcqBoXDjOpG-vtZW47YQsjafj1AtUDtqA7D4lL6B86lRdOz4RbyeARBKC7ve58dTfmpKfiYhTCVGUc/s320/2+forsythia.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">These are the two forsythia bushes on the other side of the yard. I ran an edger slit around them; I'll dig the ditch tomorrow. I saw my gardener at my sister's house yesterday. He said he and his guys would help spread mulch. They can spread it here and around the Rose of Sharon bushes behind the island -- big spaces that will take several bags. I'd rather do the more detailed mulching of the flower beds myself.<br />
<br />
I cut the vines off the fence. I don't know what they are, but they have thorns on the stems. The plant itself is in my neighbor's yard.</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;"><div style="text-align: left;">
Other volunteers farther down the fence also were cut. They are all volunteers from a neighbor's yard. I left one little stem of Knockout roses that are blooming cheerfully. I'll cut it when the flowers fade.</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ONGvU7Oylwt-zuri11kTvuMSwY1gMLNL6QD0RmEpq-VutEd0XebJEBS0ux9q1DMvq9DFH83vK58GOn-OKkvieGMn-71fEf3kV_fsCVGvTQE4OoKzWxsvYiwIPcGQMbG00CkMruwCtoZ1/s1600/Dry+marigolds.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ONGvU7Oylwt-zuri11kTvuMSwY1gMLNL6QD0RmEpq-VutEd0XebJEBS0ux9q1DMvq9DFH83vK58GOn-OKkvieGMn-71fEf3kV_fsCVGvTQE4OoKzWxsvYiwIPcGQMbG00CkMruwCtoZ1/s320/Dry+marigolds.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Here's what happens when plants in small pots don't get daily watering. I've given them a good soaking. We'll see if they respond well or get replaced. [Edit: they popped back up and remain looking happy. I think when this photo was taken they had just shut down because of the heat.]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We're supposed to have rain again tonight, but I watered in the mulch in hopes that it would pack down and not float away if the rains are heavy. Then again, the daily showers have been hit or miss. Last night there was lightning and thunder between 10 and midnight, but the rain gauge recorded nary a drop.KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-33521507228267761092018-05-24T12:17:00.000-05:002018-05-24T13:01:01.263-05:00You Load Sixteen Tons ...<br />
Well. maybe not sixteen tons, but at about 40-50 lbs per bag, 45 bags of mulch weighs around one ton. Home Depot delivered the mulch this morning. I know what life will be like for the next few weeks, and it is not a pretty picture. [Anybody else remember Tennessee Ernie Ford? :) ]<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmBmWe0opXvn9NfEJKeh1NHBu66uVTjBRZJ0UjdO2rsuUoYTEjsQ4YRW8JQhBTjCbWKFnK13eyjkKznOZgjnHCkg3sRnYJUfKVkx61WJpm2AqUobTQjc8tnjAV7cvVE7mdO9BJaDOxfxrl/s1600/Curb+to+gate+view.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmBmWe0opXvn9NfEJKeh1NHBu66uVTjBRZJ0UjdO2rsuUoYTEjsQ4YRW8JQhBTjCbWKFnK13eyjkKznOZgjnHCkg3sRnYJUfKVkx61WJpm2AqUobTQjc8tnjAV7cvVE7mdO9BJaDOxfxrl/s320/Curb+to+gate+view.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">There was a bit of a kerfuffle when the Home Depot delivery guy found out he couldn't drive the mulch to the back yard with his forklift. Aside from the gate being too narrow and the utilities pillar being in the way, it would have torn up the grass. He said he could only do a curbside delivery even though I paid for inside delivery. I'm glad he phoned before coming out. I talked to the HD manager on duty and only had to threaten to cancel the order once. They worked out a solution.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2TSSfDZOID7x_fZbNO6I507EpY94bk7IPb86IfTu0eiQlRM3G1hpCzVoREAZyozqCQaQZUSQAPA9InRV8Bmv7AT1tjnyGoqA8DocnoTksuMT_WTUENGMSEGSzwBbuuRiX28FItJEAetYs/s1600/Empty+mulch+corner+-+dirty+gate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2TSSfDZOID7x_fZbNO6I507EpY94bk7IPb86IfTu0eiQlRM3G1hpCzVoREAZyozqCQaQZUSQAPA9InRV8Bmv7AT1tjnyGoqA8DocnoTksuMT_WTUENGMSEGSzwBbuuRiX28FItJEAetYs/s320/Empty+mulch+corner+-+dirty+gate.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">This is where the mulch will go. Note the mold on the gate and wall. While I waited for the delivery, I scrubbed it clean, inside and out. The bag-covered BBQ grill was moved to the other side of the shed. This area is covered with some kind of landscape cloth and a layer of pea gravel. The concrete pavers lie on top the gravel and tend to skate around. One day I need to arrange them as I want them and scrape out the gravel underneath, so they will sit firmly on the landscape cloth. I think that will help keep them in place.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFt7noNUUP3GLSDrQ33GeWPb6PXoX9Zh2oB1BQ6tW9vmkuc3ZA-U52yRA1hwAePSMR9ArIQdbDrAvbqEqD6YpZKnMWGmPUZVqOWLqTY0ejEp0o6a5397ugL4wOMCAgPNUlD2694Hhdw8xc/s1600/Delivery+truck.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="633" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFt7noNUUP3GLSDrQ33GeWPb6PXoX9Zh2oB1BQ6tW9vmkuc3ZA-U52yRA1hwAePSMR9ArIQdbDrAvbqEqD6YpZKnMWGmPUZVqOWLqTY0ejEp0o6a5397ugL4wOMCAgPNUlD2694Hhdw8xc/s320/Delivery+truck.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">This is the truck that brought the mulch. It is huge, with the forklift hanging off the back.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikqpOwphvWeMKXKPAQhu1IFhD1h6arfwUnwsB_t9VJJmDStlZsmdQ7wQRO16idLQ2SEcX9gMy_GIAvyS87ij6yR7Lw-Pkah91O_dxKGqNps87q3EzaSBI5N9eF1rkLT45SIK22uB8fRWZj/s1600/Mulch+at+curb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikqpOwphvWeMKXKPAQhu1IFhD1h6arfwUnwsB_t9VJJmDStlZsmdQ7wQRO16idLQ2SEcX9gMy_GIAvyS87ij6yR7Lw-Pkah91O_dxKGqNps87q3EzaSBI5N9eF1rkLT45SIK22uB8fRWZj/s320/Mulch+at+curb.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The HD delivery guy dropped the mulch at the curb, as he said he would. Forty-five bags on a palette.</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><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-GKF99czEjNmP8C7MU2oPD4Fhek6GegLM5f-3c_nfoLG7seTy-19ulsajG0CVZKFwgyHgUh7aZQI-WP4Nrl944OuUp-dhFx4UFsxvj_jmD28SG0W4LAwIfvknwkTu_mw2mRGaDftnhq6e/s1600/Kevins+Truck.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="761" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-GKF99czEjNmP8C7MU2oPD4Fhek6GegLM5f-3c_nfoLG7seTy-19ulsajG0CVZKFwgyHgUh7aZQI-WP4Nrl944OuUp-dhFx4UFsxvj_jmD28SG0W4LAwIfvknwkTu_mw2mRGaDftnhq6e/s320/Kevins+Truck.JPG" width="252" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: left;">This is the Home Depot Pro Delivery truck that brought Kevin and his wheelbarrow.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyimRd68TLuj9rz911hPUsYdoWutouvnLDV6xuf5Bz9pYB4QJ1sO3ipee3nOZIxs41xGrXTM0DPfUkn1V81xzVURAtnWwUh8-KlxCPwyUX4SXVRq8fFvg2x6Y1sQgD-byk4nj3H9b4fKEV/s1600/Kevin+dropping+bag+of+mulch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyimRd68TLuj9rz911hPUsYdoWutouvnLDV6xuf5Bz9pYB4QJ1sO3ipee3nOZIxs41xGrXTM0DPfUkn1V81xzVURAtnWwUh8-KlxCPwyUX4SXVRq8fFvg2x6Y1sQgD-byk4nj3H9b4fKEV/s320/Kevin+dropping+bag+of+mulch.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">This is Kevin moving the mulch with a wheelbarrow. He made a nice, sturdy pile, five bags per layer, nine layers high. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1wOdS7cZmg6pOuOsZAXoexk8CbmWojD4jnGiZ-PCH85rbNV_-AQkoheuYWIsAta2PX-o574Er08AdtrsumKwNoLNejFDHhsE-jl6O1MKuYIbhklAIhvtvAnJgtP4l71Et7iL5_YY3hAog/s1600/Mulch+in+place.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1wOdS7cZmg6pOuOsZAXoexk8CbmWojD4jnGiZ-PCH85rbNV_-AQkoheuYWIsAta2PX-o574Er08AdtrsumKwNoLNejFDHhsE-jl6O1MKuYIbhklAIhvtvAnJgtP4l71Et7iL5_YY3hAog/s320/Mulch+in+place.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Here is the mulch, neatly stacked. Please note the nice, clean gate. :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Kevin offered to haul away the wooden pallet, but I recalled a neighbor across the street mentioning building something out of pallets. He was happy to come get it.<br />
<br />
By the time the delivery was complete, the fence and gate hosed down, and a hundred feet of hose was cranked back into its little house, it was too hot and muggy to do much outside work.<br />
<br />
<b>Mystery solved: </b>I came in and Googled "purple star flower" and found out the mystery flowers from the previous post are Balloon flowers - <i>Platycodon grandiflorus</i>. Click on the Older Post button below and scroll down for a link that explains it. In short, I'm glad to have a lot of them in the yard.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-26245427017384784472018-05-23T16:45:00.001-05:002018-05-24T10:13:49.846-05:00Disgruntled Pigeons -- Hooray!!<br />
It's still raining on and off, but I managed to get in a goodly amount of weeding this morning while the cloud cover held. When the sun came out around 10:30, I had to retreat, as heat and humidity increased rapidly. <i>(Don't forget to click on photos for a larger version.)</i><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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEZfbPr5J8WmT79R2a6h9BUMe25Q8xumPyvLpF_aCz-wV-ojHyFxSr2b6URpuo16x8SqBkJzU1EOsXkF-3vx32LKivyInQYEAYaulDUgpZdHgmdjtFqLHNemQCfwyY09ZmVZ0O7dn_ixbp/s1600/WeedingAsOf05-23-2018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEZfbPr5J8WmT79R2a6h9BUMe25Q8xumPyvLpF_aCz-wV-ojHyFxSr2b6URpuo16x8SqBkJzU1EOsXkF-3vx32LKivyInQYEAYaulDUgpZdHgmdjtFqLHNemQCfwyY09ZmVZ0O7dn_ixbp/s320/WeedingAsOf05-23-2018.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Weeding finished along the first four sections of fence; eight to go. Most of the really dense weed patches have been dealt with. The bench/kneeler is a handy tool. I'm not much good at kneeling, but sitting on the bench and leaning down to weed is great. See how well the lavender is growing under the bird feeder. The pigeons haven't harmed it. I swear it has nearly doubled in size. (And yes, I see that area needs weeding.) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The earlier weeded sections are beginning to green up again and will need to be revisited before they are mulched. Home Depot is delivering 45 bags of brown mulch tomorrow. I paid extra to have it delivered inside the gate. From there I can load a bag at a time on my little garden wagon and pull it to where it is to be spread.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The new caged bird seed feeder is working. The sparrows and smaller birds can easily get through the 1-1/2" openings, but the larger birds are baffled. I haven't seen any cardinals attempt to get inside the cage. I'm afraid they may be a tad too big. I'm thinking about making a dome of chicken wire to put on the ground to protect a plate of sunflower seeds. The cardinals should be able to get in but not the pigeons.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrv-gITB2xAChqCvDo3OCCkujEpTihbWoFcryvBXuOXIrvXizvF4-GKGypVFQvWh3Vr2mPdYmn2_8HMSlV1GQ8tXPh4Ulg1EPc6p6yCrUi3STd6j4CxD4_25sWYQfwnot3Gt8PrfdPlE5/s1600/Feeder+with+brown+bird+and+hummer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="501" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrv-gITB2xAChqCvDo3OCCkujEpTihbWoFcryvBXuOXIrvXizvF4-GKGypVFQvWh3Vr2mPdYmn2_8HMSlV1GQ8tXPh4Ulg1EPc6p6yCrUi3STd6j4CxD4_25sWYQfwnot3Gt8PrfdPlE5/s320/Feeder+with+brown+bird+and+hummer.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">I don't know what kind of bird this is, but he's doomed to go away hungry. It's hard to see, but there is a hummingbird at the feeder drinking out of the yellow flower on the left side. I know, just a blur, but I had to share. :) The hummers seem to have given the feeder a 5-star rating, as I now see them morning, noon, and evening. One buzzed near my head when I was weeding beneath the feeder a day or so ago. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEica7A8x32iHbP5c_BSOhOPY2LdK0Eev3QkZfNb4AoSVFdz_M6N_B2Iph_VDUYVvw9sJrv5aYm4n4InUoXsAJ5eAlCe1oAnIZDVYegpj8r19auvwkdV6AYJx3MhX7eOWFvNDmvlf1Tlbq9u/s1600/Feeder+with+pigeon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="747" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEica7A8x32iHbP5c_BSOhOPY2LdK0Eev3QkZfNb4AoSVFdz_M6N_B2Iph_VDUYVvw9sJrv5aYm4n4InUoXsAJ5eAlCe1oAnIZDVYegpj8r19auvwkdV6AYJx3MhX7eOWFvNDmvlf1Tlbq9u/s320/Feeder+with+pigeon.JPG" width="257" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">This is what getting the caged feeder is all about. No way is this pigeon getting any seed unless the smaller birds drop some on the ground. They tried hard the first few days. Now they just stomp around underneath. If I were to open the door a crack, I'm sure I'd hear them expressing a high degree of disgruntlement.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br />
<div>
In the nursery department, the red stem dogwood and the slow-growing Rose of Sharon seem to be holding their own.</div>
</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOVKMAySM9tP3p_xtEW0mxq8cUGgV4JmyU9KZaxhlaAqa6MklYiZJe-meXgBIRPuW7cHkjUzXJzQWZHLVeiphHLWDp9jPwhi2wCYoKsAM-KaXRZLe_XdRtY0zCQdp3UjEvQta9xUd-uD9j/s1600/Red+stem+dogwood.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="591" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOVKMAySM9tP3p_xtEW0mxq8cUGgV4JmyU9KZaxhlaAqa6MklYiZJe-meXgBIRPuW7cHkjUzXJzQWZHLVeiphHLWDp9jPwhi2wCYoKsAM-KaXRZLe_XdRtY0zCQdp3UjEvQta9xUd-uD9j/s320/Red+stem+dogwood.JPG" width="236" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">It's difficult to see the red stems against the red Georgia clay, but my goodness won't this be a standout come winter. In the spring it will sport white flowers. It seems to be settling in well. No droopy leaves.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsLO6bBXlo_y0yOtzXVF63aE_95OGrpv8KOJX7N3ywlEmCFGzvwEWQi-aCwsPPomWzX9yfXLxPWg7xIGCr8uh734EnaYjJSuDmUPfU628-UKa07gPc1hSJT-n07EegBPGyI5giwP4DVG7H/s1600/Slow+Rose+of+Sharon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="759" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsLO6bBXlo_y0yOtzXVF63aE_95OGrpv8KOJX7N3ywlEmCFGzvwEWQi-aCwsPPomWzX9yfXLxPWg7xIGCr8uh734EnaYjJSuDmUPfU628-UKa07gPc1hSJT-n07EegBPGyI5giwP4DVG7H/s320/Slow+Rose+of+Sharon.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">I made another attempt to photograph the tiny leaves on the slowest Rose of Sharon bush. I put my hand behind the branch in an attempt to get the camera to autofocus on the leaves, not the far background. The leaflet on the right <b>may</b> be a quarter inch long. This is bigger than its earlier efforts to produce greenery. I've been talking nicely to it, words of encouragement.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
The other newcomer, the Tuscarora crape myrtle, seems to be doing all right off by its lonesome in the side yard. This area is a real mess, with pea gravel and bricks sliding down the slope from house to fence, and not a blade of grass in sight. </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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6NDMTJrS5AxbQBZp0y22v1dSISTHwkVbkWBpf3EoCTO76NtWvEAqAkIV4_AvW-UUN6-o8A2lFtSCcW5qz0jk9uzhK6N-ilg_YiXXsoEYjQB2AKdVxrB1EO1sSe2GDqvW6KGIQKtQPJebC/s1600/TuscaroraCrapeMyrtle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6NDMTJrS5AxbQBZp0y22v1dSISTHwkVbkWBpf3EoCTO76NtWvEAqAkIV4_AvW-UUN6-o8A2lFtSCcW5qz0jk9uzhK6N-ilg_YiXXsoEYjQB2AKdVxrB1EO1sSe2GDqvW6KGIQKtQPJebC/s320/TuscaroraCrapeMyrtle.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The crape myrtle doesn't add anything to the backyard landscaping. In fact, it is out of sight and nearly always out of mind. Its contribution to the effort will be blocking the view of the neighbors from the office and studio with its dense foliage and lovely coral colored blooms. Can't wait for it to grow!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
The umbrella pots around the statue are working out well. The marigolds add a nice pop of color without overpowering Mom and babe.</div>
</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-FQTb2tY0q7D6q1BBvUZ3uTIAF7tmQbF_oYh5jnEKrEdi69dFWzriib-e0oL5n440PTdmMnJBAMIjieCmPhZRlGBG_-sgcU2VeBB5JLvCFq6NCHRfjddvc-qbypVaR_rTGORY70FUGKod/s1600/Statue+with+marigolds.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="574" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-FQTb2tY0q7D6q1BBvUZ3uTIAF7tmQbF_oYh5jnEKrEdi69dFWzriib-e0oL5n440PTdmMnJBAMIjieCmPhZRlGBG_-sgcU2VeBB5JLvCFq6NCHRfjddvc-qbypVaR_rTGORY70FUGKod/s320/Statue+with+marigolds.JPG" width="229" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">I think the proportion will be better after the pots are settled down into the inch or inch-and-a-half of pea gravel. It's on the To Do list!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And now, the mystery of the day. What are these flowers? The former owner must have loved them, as they are planted all over the place. I need to take one to a local nursery for identification, unless one of you can solve the mystery.</div>
<div>
<br /></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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXU91TM5AalB-5x3tVDPg6tErvYj34q5YTxqlDnjaw24XYxiCwlb-_B3yENKQfysB-5JfKgoHGBhuYAIQAKahtUYW5lMsDpDGR0uqAdNydjlGwcNqFfXgwh0JehVeYwrjWgQTADmrtAFoU/s1600/PurpleFlower02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="790" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXU91TM5AalB-5x3tVDPg6tErvYj34q5YTxqlDnjaw24XYxiCwlb-_B3yENKQfysB-5JfKgoHGBhuYAIQAKahtUYW5lMsDpDGR0uqAdNydjlGwcNqFfXgwh0JehVeYwrjWgQTADmrtAFoU/s320/PurpleFlower02.JPG" width="243" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what they mystery flower looks like as its buds swell.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCRey7GkBr04k22mD5f0_hZdNqTRnMDfwbwb73o3eRyj_l4FJH02fabetu2mYBKPo4ouaxih6uimN25y27jNkxx4lZl-_qa16sd3wE5tmS-qoThhY94OvSaEyUtwMcSMmD-ifRu3coOCto/s1600/PurpleFlower01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="764" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCRey7GkBr04k22mD5f0_hZdNqTRnMDfwbwb73o3eRyj_l4FJH02fabetu2mYBKPo4ouaxih6uimN25y27jNkxx4lZl-_qa16sd3wE5tmS-qoThhY94OvSaEyUtwMcSMmD-ifRu3coOCto/s320/PurpleFlower01.JPG" width="251" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The balloon-like buds pop open to become a lovely star-shaped flower.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
If you know what these are, please respond in the comments below. Thanks!!<br />
<br />
<b>Edit:</b> When my brother thought they were called something like <a href="https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-grow-balloon-flowers-4125528" target="_blank">Balloon Flowers</a>. He was spot on! I Googled "purple star flowers", and there they were. Thanks, Rich! Apparently they are hearty perennials that can withstand short bouts of drought and come back smiling year after year. The article says they bloom in mid-summer, but here in Georgia they are blooming the 3rd week in May.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-9569557111201342492018-05-20T11:32:00.000-05:002018-05-20T11:32:26.700-05:00Rain, rain ... *sigh*<br />
After a week or more of rain, the greenery is going gangbusters. This morning I weeded the first section of fence. I think about the long skinny flower bed in terms of fence segments so as not to be overwhelmed. <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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRTnwBJovw_sAMDgHQyZ615EDQa2x4kDHTWlvICV1oNDvktOVDfI3iwIhB5pzU6wGRVuA1XlfjMPf0EnVH7sh0gEVnqYwOmkeFCVe4_UGyvK6UHnhdvJvNB1_M3DM4oYuCvvHFDVY4pIpj/s1600/20180520-HbridFeeder%2526bath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRTnwBJovw_sAMDgHQyZ615EDQa2x4kDHTWlvICV1oNDvktOVDfI3iwIhB5pzU6wGRVuA1XlfjMPf0EnVH7sh0gEVnqYwOmkeFCVe4_UGyvK6UHnhdvJvNB1_M3DM4oYuCvvHFDVY4pIpj/s320/20180520-HbridFeeder%2526bath.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">There are 10 or 11 sections in the fence. If I do one a day they'll get weeded every 10 days. That's the plan, anyway.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The next photo shows the weeded section plus the three French lavender bushes beneath the bird feeders and the hummingbird feeder, which was moved to the fence. The lavender is growing nicely. In a few weeks it should be a foot or more high and begin producing beautiful, fragrant blossoms. I fell in love with the lavender when we were in France and had some in the Missouri garden. I'm so looking forward to it blooming!<br />
<br />
Yes, the feeders are empty. I left them empty to discourage the shack bully pigeons who not only drained the feeders but stomped around beneath them and pretty well killed anything planted there. I've ordered a new feeder, one with a cage around it that is supposed to let in small to medium birds but keep out larger birds and squirrels. If it works well, I'll get a caged suet feeder, one that will keep out the starlings.<br />
<br />
This morning I spotted a hummingbird at the feeder. It is maybe not the first one, as the level of nectar has been dropping, but the first one I've laid eyes on. Happy day!<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirnMYU5XJikgDzBnuN7yqnlZdN60SGMjL9PZpyvx7_HUZygVzPnqU91oUGVcO-Ifri9FtYZsvYA9IcvulhH8zAksDlQ1uZYx2YTrlgBzLygInvuygHTe7LhbC5tRnMf8Qd-r1AfDZNZltm/s1600/20180520-Weeding02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirnMYU5XJikgDzBnuN7yqnlZdN60SGMjL9PZpyvx7_HUZygVzPnqU91oUGVcO-Ifri9FtYZsvYA9IcvulhH8zAksDlQ1uZYx2YTrlgBzLygInvuygHTe7LhbC5tRnMf8Qd-r1AfDZNZltm/s320/20180520-Weeding02.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The first section is weeded but not edged.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This view shows the raggedy edge of the flower bed. When I was in Missouri I had a step-on edger that made quick work of tidy edges. When we moved, I bequeathed it to my dear friends as I'd have no need for it in the condo. Well, life intervened. When I moaned that I could not find another -- it is out of production and nowhere to be found -- they generously offered to ship it back to me. Now they are even dearer friends. ☺ Can't wait for it to get here!<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZvjouw3RGvQ6JJM1hVJa4XNc7hPPCRFq_mUHOXBno01yoPRknqCp3FP9Vs0TBXYTO-VR42hHsDCWzU1pssqC-W20SaQsfe9rsUwFNhAyHCvjjSTAX2S5XJ3QSzRWsorcTkic6JCRlEgZT/s1600/20180520-Weeding01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZvjouw3RGvQ6JJM1hVJa4XNc7hPPCRFq_mUHOXBno01yoPRknqCp3FP9Vs0TBXYTO-VR42hHsDCWzU1pssqC-W20SaQsfe9rsUwFNhAyHCvjjSTAX2S5XJ3QSzRWsorcTkic6JCRlEgZT/s320/20180520-Weeding01.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">As I weed, I need to mulch, but first need to create a clean edge. [Note to self: see if Home Depot will deliver bags of mulch.]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The next photo shows the weeding that lies ahead ... some areas are very dense with weeds and others not so much. The next section of fence is going to be a headache to weed, but it is supposed to be cooler with no rain tomorrow and the ground will still be relatively soft from the rain. <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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMnCR8p2b9ljk1UJ2-MVxPEFDYce42blTA40OQDdehfrpz-U-v0QTgWfnmWhvV-mHvqs3jk5poWDTAtmDIIq_BP-8bJ-CFORjf69lWM7PxUr19gNc4twO2yEfgzR7rC2jrxQiRcmnWbhyA/s1600/20180520-Weeding03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMnCR8p2b9ljk1UJ2-MVxPEFDYce42blTA40OQDdehfrpz-U-v0QTgWfnmWhvV-mHvqs3jk5poWDTAtmDIIq_BP-8bJ-CFORjf69lWM7PxUr19gNc4twO2yEfgzR7rC2jrxQiRcmnWbhyA/s320/20180520-Weeding03.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">On the patio, a new white planter, and along the fence a new birdbath.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip8i10kdCGUvhcKS8gJz3X6IUdTCWKEAsVrerHOqoa-y8nLw060nP3zT9X0irGb0b_8AS3VSgahcGgJLEydRMWDnh-lDZ8gf7kGTyunrYLDhdJg_vrKzvaYlCbtterYHYftZ1xLFWj-iFH/s1600/20180529-PlanterBox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip8i10kdCGUvhcKS8gJz3X6IUdTCWKEAsVrerHOqoa-y8nLw060nP3zT9X0irGb0b_8AS3VSgahcGgJLEydRMWDnh-lDZ8gf7kGTyunrYLDhdJg_vrKzvaYlCbtterYHYftZ1xLFWj-iFH/s320/20180529-PlanterBox.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The new planter with lavender and white calla lilies that were around the statue in the island. They won't stay here permanently. Not sure where they'll end up.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now a trip to the island ... I wasn't really happy with the statue being semi-hidden among the pots of calla lilies and ferns. Then I found planters that are designed to to be used on a patio table on either side of the umbrella. Perfect! They will be settled into the pea gravel a bit so the tops will be level with the base. I think rather than adding dirt, I will put in small pots of blooms so they can be changed out as the season and my whims demand.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvxbrXjFc5cep_PlOXXnp-IaypfwjTz2a44We8elQXybfpW8-075woNIA8QqGJYMFuICfN3OTm4e_lMH4r3MfnHNGx7Om6RScMp_j38mU6XuhMb8uzp0pw1lPyfTMXoadGIHdsiqWtO_q/s1600/20180520-NewPotsAroundStatue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="751" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvxbrXjFc5cep_PlOXXnp-IaypfwjTz2a44We8elQXybfpW8-075woNIA8QqGJYMFuICfN3OTm4e_lMH4r3MfnHNGx7Om6RScMp_j38mU6XuhMb8uzp0pw1lPyfTMXoadGIHdsiqWtO_q/s320/20180520-NewPotsAroundStatue.jpg" width="255" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Just behind the island are the six Rose of Sharon bushes that were transplanted. Three are growing heartily, two are not quite so robust but are bravely leafing out, and then there is this one. It puts out microscopic leaves that seem to be there one day, gone the next. It must still be alive. I'm hoping it is busy putting out a sturdy root system and will direct energy to leaf production when it's ready.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8xKKMF6yPt0JUlQ9_88cn1MFVk6GMbPib75xIn2K9WCz-rB7tfcM9roqXZm814jbdIbXVetZcYOm3sMbACyH8EW-IYn-dmWHIDOHEVXORuIn_oWGj7I7cpOAwhW33vQ50EkSTV1bNk7PR/s1600/20180520-RoseOfSharonBuds2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8xKKMF6yPt0JUlQ9_88cn1MFVk6GMbPib75xIn2K9WCz-rB7tfcM9roqXZm814jbdIbXVetZcYOm3sMbACyH8EW-IYn-dmWHIDOHEVXORuIn_oWGj7I7cpOAwhW33vQ50EkSTV1bNk7PR/s320/20180520-RoseOfSharonBuds2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The arrows are pointing to microscopic leaves. This Rose of Sharon is apparently alive but its growth rate is definitely not as good as its brothers and sisters. [Click on the photo for an enlargement. Sorry for the blur. The growths are sooooo tiny!]</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Two more plants have been added to the landscape, a red stemmed dogwood to add a bit of winter color and a Tuscarora crape myrtle outside my office and studio, which will have coral colored blossoms. Mini update: the three paulownia trees are growing well. Photos to come.KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-29330684612825411412018-05-09T07:15:00.002-05:002018-05-09T07:15:27.405-05:00A Tale of Two Trees<br />
When we lived in Missouri, there was a plant in the garden that had me perplexed for several years. It had a woody stem that grew rapidly and produced dinner-plate size leaves. It was not in a good place for my overall garden design, so for three or four years I cut it off at ground level, not being able to pull or dig it up where it grew amid some rocks. And every year it came right back. I finally searched out what it was: a <i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paulownia_elongata" target="_blank">Paulownia elongata</a>.</i><br />
<br />
With its promise of growing up to 15 feet in a year and producing shade and beautiful flowers, I thought would be perfect for my current yard. My local landscaper was not familiar with <i>Paulownia</i>, so I found a Georgia nursery that carried it and ordered two of them on line. (You can see the bare root sticks in the <a href="http://kathiebgarden.blogspot.com/2018/04/the-garden-grows.html" target="_blank">previous post</a>.) The photo in their ad was of <i>Paulownia elongata</i>, as was the description.<br />
<br />
As the twin <i>Paulownias</i> began to put out leaves, I was confused. Their leaves were the wrong shape and had a fuzzy surface, not the smooth leaves I was expecting. I queried the nursery, which never got back to me. (As of 9 May 2018, the page for their Empress Tree/<i>Paulownia</i> has been taken down.) Google helped me discover that there are multiple species of Paulownia, and what I had was <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paulownia_tomentosa" target="_blank"><i>Paulownia tomentosa</i></a>. Who knew?<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisM7F94mLV0w8FH_K7Wfk3Yb4apvBCLcaRL9KcueyHhbXsCyzTUX_KDl7okAyBq-MUvJERKIgXYqrFhEJYhL9WUn7lJOoTSZ9GNA6IWLgHOcaYIFYY-4hwVQD_xLdd7wo0UWdpfIP1iZ9T/s1600/P5010504-cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="739" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisM7F94mLV0w8FH_K7Wfk3Yb4apvBCLcaRL9KcueyHhbXsCyzTUX_KDl7okAyBq-MUvJERKIgXYqrFhEJYhL9WUn7lJOoTSZ9GNA6IWLgHOcaYIFYY-4hwVQD_xLdd7wo0UWdpfIP1iZ9T/s320/P5010504-cropped.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Paulownia tomentosa</i> in my yard in Georgia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Meanwhile, the <b>Russian pomegranate</b> from the same Georgia nursery never did sprout. When I spoke via telephone to their Customer Service department, I was told that it was a very slow growing tree, that they'd had some planted for several months before they began to show new leaves. Ha. I know a dead tree when I see one. And I want something that will grow quickly!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I went online again and ordered a <i>Paulownia elongata</i> from a different nursery, this one in North Carolina. It it wending its way to me as I type this. When Joe showed up with his auger to dig a hole for a crape myrtle that is yet to be purchased, I had him remove the pomegranate and enlarge the hole for the <i>Paulownia elongata</i>. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I thought I'd do a good thing and fill the hole with water, so the ground would be good and wet for the new <i>Paulownia</i>. That was before I read that <i>Paulownias</i> do not like to be over-watered. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKnOCJ9qjiMRZijRfPuSV27AfmrF_7bkQycGNypitO4NOgQEGTD-R0nbMEUeAdHbamv1cNCjK34igEQn3yDZUWwuyNIexGW3qxO5q30oxofwultLYDmidcBaPdJrsQEpU6IIrOCHxUcmUf/s1600/20180507-Water+in+Hole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKnOCJ9qjiMRZijRfPuSV27AfmrF_7bkQycGNypitO4NOgQEGTD-R0nbMEUeAdHbamv1cNCjK34igEQn3yDZUWwuyNIexGW3qxO5q30oxofwultLYDmidcBaPdJrsQEpU6IIrOCHxUcmUf/s320/20180507-Water+in+Hole.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Hole for <i>Paulownia elongata</i>, about 7 hours after being filled to the top with water. Only about a third of it has soaked into the dense Georgia clay.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So the tree isn't happy to have its feet wet, and here I am placing it in a mini pond. (As of this morning, about 20 hours after adding the water, the hole is empty but still very wet.) I have some Miracle Gro soil amendment to mix with the clay when the tree is planted. I'm hoping it will aerate the soil enough so that water will drain away from the roots when it rains. I'll be watering only sparingly during the hot, dry summer months. If it manages to live through the spring rains, it ought to be okay.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, I found some beautiful lavender and white calla lilies at Home Depot. I bought several pots of them, along with some ferns, for the mother and child statue. There is a weed barrier beneath the pea gravel, so they can't be planted in the ground. Until I find suitable containers, I'll dig the pots in so the bottom 2-3" will be hidden by the pea gravel.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpckzp5R8sietiQWL3F_KZsQVm9RkAPjbGhhsjcgvdI7zmNl0mTLABGgXER5G_YMeVoKJoC6m7vtAuYRKDQsQr7asIbZz4pBqKtNyPtqjGc7sgnZ9IVstNo4YJt5v8sBfvHmJf1jlSgT2G/s1600/20180507-Statue+with+flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="694" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpckzp5R8sietiQWL3F_KZsQVm9RkAPjbGhhsjcgvdI7zmNl0mTLABGgXER5G_YMeVoKJoC6m7vtAuYRKDQsQr7asIbZz4pBqKtNyPtqjGc7sgnZ9IVstNo4YJt5v8sBfvHmJf1jlSgT2G/s320/20180507-Statue+with+flowers.jpg" width="276" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The calla lilies are a beautiful lavender and white, which does not show up well in this photo.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The island is shaping up. The chairs are from Walmart, the tri-level table from Hobby Lobby.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3KcWN6OFuNPREhC24mDRRjXBbLOlRw_9XKyFExiDHu4lLCTn8dxmgsTf-kuevwGO4899Tr-ecnY0s1kdIay5jOuvF-mkyIgmsPcx7bpKFR3AVvbS7ZaWffYYU1vmddkJV3Jza6Lo9NPZZ/s1600/20180507-Island+w+flowers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3KcWN6OFuNPREhC24mDRRjXBbLOlRw_9XKyFExiDHu4lLCTn8dxmgsTf-kuevwGO4899Tr-ecnY0s1kdIay5jOuvF-mkyIgmsPcx7bpKFR3AVvbS7ZaWffYYU1vmddkJV3Jza6Lo9NPZZ/s320/20180507-Island+w+flowers.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The island is a pleasant place to sit in the morning, before the sun gets too hot. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Yesterday three lavender plants arrived looking healthy and happy and ready to add fragrance to the garden. They'll be planted today, beneath the bird feeders.KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-38003977887490708002018-04-14T15:49:00.001-05:002018-04-14T15:49:47.460-05:00The Garden Grows!!<br />
Although our weather has had its ups and downs, temperature-wise, over the past week, the garden is growing. I have to admit I've been like a mother hen hovering over her chicks, checking to be sure nothing was wilting and looking for any sign of revival in the three bare root additions, the Russian pomegranate and the two paulownias. Today, a week after the great makeover --- partial success!<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBXb_K8eS9Vl6Bzsto6hqnE-9MAzKWAiYK_5su3yLxXrcU4P5_AmOqvo4Fk1kzrFCEDla7OK4Y24AGQ3bovqnCJdAOna55lYcRWO50bYgNQRbv50pzn3GTgB6Gdh3ssOHmnC4eXXGGyj3X/s1600/Empress01-02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="673" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBXb_K8eS9Vl6Bzsto6hqnE-9MAzKWAiYK_5su3yLxXrcU4P5_AmOqvo4Fk1kzrFCEDla7OK4Y24AGQ3bovqnCJdAOna55lYcRWO50bYgNQRbv50pzn3GTgB6Gdh3ssOHmnC4eXXGGyj3X/s320/Empress01-02.JPG" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Empress Tree 1, a paulownia, has sprouted! It should grow quickly. This isn't a good photo for the background, but there's a hint of the iris blooming along the fence, and the azaleas by the house are blooming gloriously full and brilliant.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6VbRTAOi3uWscIPJMzyuqw8svrzoNqg6hAEERcDgF3Q-kdWuoitbXrcidPY3-9gmtiZzfpPvuRlpvGGmtOc4OJv40_w8IipXcKARMfrotIvgJDI1j1Hyl9aViHI2nZZPT-SznKZdVxzCX/s1600/Empress02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="592" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6VbRTAOi3uWscIPJMzyuqw8svrzoNqg6hAEERcDgF3Q-kdWuoitbXrcidPY3-9gmtiZzfpPvuRlpvGGmtOc4OJv40_w8IipXcKARMfrotIvgJDI1j1Hyl9aViHI2nZZPT-SznKZdVxzCX/s320/Empress02.JPG" width="236" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Empress tree 2, the other paulownia, has also sprouted, but not quite as robustly. It gets slightly less sunlight, which may be why is is a bit behind its sister on the growth spectrum. I've marked the two most obvious leaf buds with the arrows. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyQN7OqTPGmj_0t7fmJ3HmbWphBLKhFpWgj-Lbp7NXk-3fYrkJzA0QdDsg4yxTUAKUrL10W8L9Iwa5-9PkqLS3PXosWSMcQxBptC-x-OAHBLT61iI394b3yP4mLXPIux3A3B554OYMCrQn/s1600/pomegranate02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyQN7OqTPGmj_0t7fmJ3HmbWphBLKhFpWgj-Lbp7NXk-3fYrkJzA0QdDsg4yxTUAKUrL10W8L9Iwa5-9PkqLS3PXosWSMcQxBptC-x-OAHBLT61iI394b3yP4mLXPIux3A3B554OYMCrQn/s320/pomegranate02.JPG" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The Russian pomegranate, on the other hand, has lost the few leaves it came with, and appears to be quite dead. I'm hoping to see some growth at the base in the next several days. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-15558763530946435572018-04-06T18:00:00.000-05:002018-04-14T15:54:43.528-05:00Georgia: Phase One complete<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
After three days of 2-3 men working hard and me supervising, Phase One was complete. Hardscape finished, existing plants transplanted, and new trees and bushes planted. We did not accomplish everything on the initial Plan. It was a guideline, not a hard-and-fast plan. As the garden shaped up, I decided not to go ahead with some facets of the plan. I am pleased with how it is turning out. I can muster enough patience to watch it grow before moving to Phase Two.<br />
<br />
The following photos were taken April 6, 2018. <i>Click on a photo to see it larger.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdC9xhCcG9yjqN31Q7Zmq2lcvECvV0pAGjA5M7ihdnbuXEvhlcyUXWL8IId4Qq6rBPBTrafvy_hAPoeHsjML6M7k8pvtoa1oZBTLjPDYpUH0puumWIShnH3fOryodM0iD5QYT7QFoAyJOM/s1600/20180406-WideViewFromPorch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdC9xhCcG9yjqN31Q7Zmq2lcvECvV0pAGjA5M7ihdnbuXEvhlcyUXWL8IId4Qq6rBPBTrafvy_hAPoeHsjML6M7k8pvtoa1oZBTLjPDYpUH0puumWIShnH3fOryodM0iD5QYT7QFoAyJOM/s320/20180406-WideViewFromPorch.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">This is the view from the back porch. Eventually those three lone Emerald Green cones will get as big as the one on the other side of the fence. They will form a screen of sorts. Jody warned me not to overwater them. Water the rest, he said, but the Emerald Greens don't want too much water.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<br /></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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgitBCGDhA41_SKZ4MHQPsIu2PdqLYPsilFt6nm6QATcisSUGYbKJt16-NDPMeOp3VyBV58F0uBnKecjj5lk-wNkojXVq2CyPg-jmdEU0nwdxA-hJKyLxosZ5OJreR2n6fvY4XOmL8R1OKY/s1600/20180406-Island%2526Statue.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="573" data-original-width="800" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgitBCGDhA41_SKZ4MHQPsIu2PdqLYPsilFt6nm6QATcisSUGYbKJt16-NDPMeOp3VyBV58F0uBnKecjj5lk-wNkojXVq2CyPg-jmdEU0nwdxA-hJKyLxosZ5OJreR2n6fvY4XOmL8R1OKY/s320/20180406-Island%2526Statue.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The island is the focal point of the garden. It is backed by six Rose of Sharon bushes rescued from certain death where they were planted too close to the fence. The dogwood is difficult to see in this photo with its white blossoms against the white back fence, but it is centered. Two Empress trees (paulownia) are planted on either side of the dogwood. Those three trees will grow above the Rose of Sharon bushes and add some nice height (and privacy) to the design.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivL4QVOrscyzQhpnOiazEbj1uEemv8Kjv1SWrFg2EjOvGUDRB19fE8SKSMbNs6RzUTJTst3F_5seBHx4ZL5PUGb_8LpTT_sWJOssZ2mk0M4NHfjOc41-dOldvhw8Kxd3-WxIW8hIyT8-5h/s1600/20180406-BackPorch%2526Patio.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivL4QVOrscyzQhpnOiazEbj1uEemv8Kjv1SWrFg2EjOvGUDRB19fE8SKSMbNs6RzUTJTst3F_5seBHx4ZL5PUGb_8LpTT_sWJOssZ2mk0M4NHfjOc41-dOldvhw8Kxd3-WxIW8hIyT8-5h/s320/20180406-BackPorch%2526Patio.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The tiny back porch and patio have seen the least amount of change. Buddha is sitting on his drum in the former fire pit, now dirt-filled. There was room for a few lilies from Home Depot. I have no idea what color they will be. Behind him is a small shed for garden tools and birdseed. This area needs attention -- some comfortable chairs and some kind of shade. The house next door is not nearly so visible when you're actually standing there.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkIcYLr0vXgkEk4ch8YmHowEk4kp5oRaWS61mpw8vMEZ2k3vrMuxJusqGgYaLRdaCa8YMHZk1p3chJX40U5mFE-QQ7hpY5qx5VlWMtduRQp2RwSa76-gu018w4slYjmCYGG0i0MyUCbFg-/s1600/20180406-HouseBedAzaleas.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="358" data-original-width="800" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkIcYLr0vXgkEk4ch8YmHowEk4kp5oRaWS61mpw8vMEZ2k3vrMuxJusqGgYaLRdaCa8YMHZk1p3chJX40U5mFE-QQ7hpY5qx5VlWMtduRQp2RwSa76-gu018w4slYjmCYGG0i0MyUCbFg-/s320/20180406-HouseBedAzaleas.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">The azaleas behind the house were not touched but for a little week-pulling. I'd thought about moving them, and still may, but for now they are resting in peace.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRJ5SwB_XdMhcTZmny_w5l30HUlgfPA6HKTi3RIjdEtruytZQqmhkiPJ45-jI_303Zz0zFbwnLjCLahU0TPkJETtc8pAjXA48-wz7PSE7jY1fszukRddGvYGd4jzBMgkgFm7sKfTr3uIgO/s1600/20180406-Patio%2526JapaneseQuince.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRJ5SwB_XdMhcTZmny_w5l30HUlgfPA6HKTi3RIjdEtruytZQqmhkiPJ45-jI_303Zz0zFbwnLjCLahU0TPkJETtc8pAjXA48-wz7PSE7jY1fszukRddGvYGd4jzBMgkgFm7sKfTr3uIgO/s320/20180406-Patio%2526JapaneseQuince.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">This view shows the widening of the planting bed along the fence. There are transplanted lilies right next to the patio. The bush beside them is a Japanese quince. Its beautiful coral-colored blossoms are finished for now, something to look forward to next spring. On this side of the quince are transplanted irises, then more daylilies. Not sure what the purple flowers are; left them there as they seem happy.</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg-_AajPwMSPyHrCCGPNloqkpMXy-lB-8J4fPKG3Deeuv1TviviQAAQ3xMWmBayR4ixz2T4TUMCZ37HBBAMpQyPUsNEm4aoJli3-bXfX48LpUqgfYWB1sSH8rce4FIx_We9_Xymjco9vjy/s1600/20180406-LeftFenceBackTowardHouse.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="555" data-original-width="800" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg-_AajPwMSPyHrCCGPNloqkpMXy-lB-8J4fPKG3Deeuv1TviviQAAQ3xMWmBayR4ixz2T4TUMCZ37HBBAMpQyPUsNEm4aoJli3-bXfX48LpUqgfYWB1sSH8rce4FIx_We9_Xymjco9vjy/s320/20180406-LeftFenceBackTowardHouse.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Backing toward the back fence, the long view of the transplants can be seen. The bush in the middle is a forsythia. Like the Japanese quince, it is finished for this year. The purple flowers in the foreground mark the end of the transplants. From there to the back fence there is an undisturbed clump of iris and five larger azaleas that Jody didn't think would survive transplanting. The dogwood is a Cherokee princess. It is placed so that when looking at it from the house (porch), it appears through a break in the wall of Rose of Sharon bushes. That brown spot to the right of the dogwood is a tree-to-be. It is Empress 1, a paulownia that will grow quickly from bare root to majestic. That's the plan, anyway.☺</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihoY7aR8e5M8HoI26-m4QKOScrO7jwJ0gAJw9M8xUEQfd1tJWOW-24GBsfbl4OgFt8ldupjxfbNuBi2KCEzaqxwFA-iMFUJWsgk2PJdh-xOVSEcgPR-w6rekvP0MGCEqr7R2lFqJZkcSKY/s1600/20180406-Paulonia-Empress01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="539" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihoY7aR8e5M8HoI26-m4QKOScrO7jwJ0gAJw9M8xUEQfd1tJWOW-24GBsfbl4OgFt8ldupjxfbNuBi2KCEzaqxwFA-iMFUJWsgk2PJdh-xOVSEcgPR-w6rekvP0MGCEqr7R2lFqJZkcSKY/s320/20180406-Paulonia-Empress01.JPG" width="215" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Here's a closeup of the paulownia. Doesn't look like much, but like that silly old ant, we have high hopes. It has a mate of similar appearance on the other side of the dogwood, just outside the photo above.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5dE-Xe39vuF__05renUAyNuCWCmNcrIP00adYJiho4WY4GvotconlAmonfbqVk8XJzY9hPaIjijzcXxx-UDjwaYN7T23xSOnJkVZmcbdfkWFk9Eq8m5vloC94VaaqizJVeizj7gNKZ-_k/s1600/20180406-RtFence-RussPom%2526Forsythis.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="546" data-original-width="800" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5dE-Xe39vuF__05renUAyNuCWCmNcrIP00adYJiho4WY4GvotconlAmonfbqVk8XJzY9hPaIjijzcXxx-UDjwaYN7T23xSOnJkVZmcbdfkWFk9Eq8m5vloC94VaaqizJVeizj7gNKZ-_k/s320/20180406-RtFence-RussPom%2526Forsythis.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Back toward the front of the house, opposite the Japanese quince, are two more forsythia bushes. They will be a lovely blaze of color in the spring. The white tag is on a Russian pomegranate, bought bare root from Tyty Nursery in Tyty, Georgia. It is supposed to be hardy enough to withstand our zone 7 winters. It looks every bit as dead as the two paulownias, but -- high hopes!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4-0U-wql0rNd6ZBwcWhNWrBtGA8j4ZZCdkImEloMuaqRKkuOfAcumesb_6A2vQYWc-3SA1E1Dr6PA3IgAHW-4VYMgtDrquuPPDx2uWtFt4v-4acHusn9rILFlSfzNDBazqeBNB5WvuwCm/s1600/20180406-SicklyAzaleas.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4-0U-wql0rNd6ZBwcWhNWrBtGA8j4ZZCdkImEloMuaqRKkuOfAcumesb_6A2vQYWc-3SA1E1Dr6PA3IgAHW-4VYMgtDrquuPPDx2uWtFt4v-4acHusn9rILFlSfzNDBazqeBNB5WvuwCm/s320/20180406-SicklyAzaleas.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">In the back corner are some sickly looking azaleas. They are different from the healthy batch up near the house. Their blooms are all on the bottom. I need to learn more about azaleas!</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVAVIWXc0GO497Wwrbb16Q00IxxnK-b1A_igDW1HOLC82OCVNpG6ze-e4sk16rgtBCMQVafLOHswPOWA6p8HbphiMGm_NBaOvnC2WTj3o9XOgjXXbuY8m_rbfqQebgwMNQBdLPNmMFKJ7H/s1600/20180406-BackGate-KnockoutRose.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVAVIWXc0GO497Wwrbb16Q00IxxnK-b1A_igDW1HOLC82OCVNpG6ze-e4sk16rgtBCMQVafLOHswPOWA6p8HbphiMGm_NBaOvnC2WTj3o9XOgjXXbuY8m_rbfqQebgwMNQBdLPNmMFKJ7H/s320/20180406-BackGate-KnockoutRose.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Across the way from the sickly azaleas there was a Knockout rose that was incredibly overgrown. It didn't appear ever to have been pruned. It was as tall as the fence, a good 6 feet. It has been cut waaaay back, but should revive. There was a little ivy vine hiding beneath it, as well as a baby snake about the size of a robust earthworm. There was some debate among the crew as to whether is was a copperhead, but no agreement was reached. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And so it stands. Time to haul out the hosepipe and start watering. </div>
KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-81332267514523917952018-04-06T16:00:00.000-05:002018-04-14T15:53:32.094-05:00Georgia: Work in Progress<br />
I am lucky to have a landscape gardener who comes highly recommended by my sister. Joe Graham and his workers from Graham Yard Makeovers, Dallas, Georgia, are the fellows in the bright shirts that you'll see in some of the following photos.<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEdcZvmmK5xZv8EiNf32aYU7HL7ccZMvyT4KtwBT3rU14AqvXWTcLHUMELv2wJCb63RqEibBz-lNLwtbOkC27BrZNftRv_EBrjf45sUHVlxEtGjlOVhqEbH7EpWbZo-LAmM6lqMWv29LQP/s1600/Plan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1256" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEdcZvmmK5xZv8EiNf32aYU7HL7ccZMvyT4KtwBT3rU14AqvXWTcLHUMELv2wJCb63RqEibBz-lNLwtbOkC27BrZNftRv_EBrjf45sUHVlxEtGjlOVhqEbH7EpWbZo-LAmM6lqMWv29LQP/s320/Plan.jpg" width="251" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">We started out with a general plan. Placement of the new plants and trees was predicated on the view lines between the house and the houses to the right and behind the yard, most of which are two stories and peer down into the yard. Click the diagram to see a larger view, but if it is not readable, not to worry. All will be explained as we tour the garden. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWXA_sgsVf2c6-y6YSbOeODF9OmpgrrYi9658ZBZY7-AXtgdnzxGfLdOqOJmTqUiG1rkXtos_HQxrTdOY8DxEHqVZdPonKXc0uxdQUFoE34tAqeWhnR7vFcXdv68hr1c0hLDm1wnOuolmt/s1600/20180404-Auger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWXA_sgsVf2c6-y6YSbOeODF9OmpgrrYi9658ZBZY7-AXtgdnzxGfLdOqOJmTqUiG1rkXtos_HQxrTdOY8DxEHqVZdPonKXc0uxdQUFoE34tAqeWhnR7vFcXdv68hr1c0hLDm1wnOuolmt/s320/20180404-Auger.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Joe and Tom with the auger. Not having any experience with the Georgia red clay, I was surprised to see the arrival of the auger. As Joe pointed out, digging holes with this machine was quicker than trying to hand dig, plus it turned the solid clay to a nice powdery texture, great for the new plant roots. This hole would be for the Japanese quince, seen at right.<br />
<br />
They also used the auger to till the top few inches of clay where the iris and daylilies were to be transplanted. The loosened clay was mixed with a Miracle Gro product designed to amend the local dirt. The compost and fertilizer will make the transplants very happy.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdQVort58hYlhk3OMu1BLU2_c4T9_8ecd7DciwVPEvRYf3GySK395NnZOXjCwGHIHDphlAjcij1M7JG1zlCAtkpymFS0W8_WGQdiwZ9e2aJD2uoaRG2t1EKy31rv1TIHIAB7CjpQ9zw_0Q/s1600/20180404-Planting+Rose+of+Sharon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdQVort58hYlhk3OMu1BLU2_c4T9_8ecd7DciwVPEvRYf3GySK395NnZOXjCwGHIHDphlAjcij1M7JG1zlCAtkpymFS0W8_WGQdiwZ9e2aJD2uoaRG2t1EKy31rv1TIHIAB7CjpQ9zw_0Q/s320/20180404-Planting+Rose+of+Sharon.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Nearly all of the edger bricks were relocated to the island. Joe and crew put down a barrier mat and arranged three rows of bricks in a fluid oval. It appears to slant slightly to the left, which is good for drainage and not nearly so noticeable in person.. We didn't want it to turn into a wading pool after a hard rain.<br />
<br />
The augering continued after the island was complete. The six Rose of Sharon bushes moved from along the fence to form a natural fence behind the island.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ06B0cjDEjqWEmoeu-gLPYknXveIEZlYMLhJXZpcPtf5JWAAwyj69ax7cJBKSuZ9YLB8Ot35oFhmliBfxJZpBwXgffKv3mhPdi1tCbTkSl4NU0vBSehHWsiiBPre4FFuOz2MDDNWU_QLh/s1600/20180404-Yard+in+Progress.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ06B0cjDEjqWEmoeu-gLPYknXveIEZlYMLhJXZpcPtf5JWAAwyj69ax7cJBKSuZ9YLB8Ot35oFhmliBfxJZpBwXgffKv3mhPdi1tCbTkSl4NU0vBSehHWsiiBPre4FFuOz2MDDNWU_QLh/s320/20180404-Yard+in+Progress.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Here you can (barely) see the Rose of Sharon bushes behind the island. To the left you can see where some of the sod was removed to expand the planting area along the fence to accommodate the Japanese quince.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I had intended to take more photos of the work in progress, but I got so involved with the process that I forgot the camera. What followed this basic makeover was the relocation of the many iris and daylilies and the addition of more bushes and trees. In the next blog installment, I'll show you how that turned out.KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-52098735706560654292018-04-06T14:41:00.002-05:002018-04-14T15:55:16.435-05:00The Move to Georgia and a Brand New Garden<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: blue;">Georgia: the Before Photos</span></h3>
<br />
This blog began in central Missouri, then moved to our condo in New Orleans. Lloyd passed away last year, and I moved yet again, this time to a gated community northwest of Atlanta, Georgia, where I am near my sister and her family. The house is great, just right for me. The front yard is well landscaped and kept by the Home Owners Association. The backyard, however, was unimaginative, to say the least, and suffering from neglect.<br />
<br />
In the past, I've patiently waited a full year to see what a new yard has to offer before doing any major landscaping. <i>This</i> backyard, however, with its line of edger bricks parallel to the fences and much too close to them, plus a barren area dead center, has been grating on my nerves over the winter. The Rose of Sharon bushes are threatening the integrity of the fence, and the small clumps of iris and daylilies are scattered and looking lonely.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Click on the photos to see a larger view.</i></div>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtpM3ti5WykrymLoLUblQz83fhPDAiFCezIjTeHtFpnp4UG5tX7K8IIutAci86hJTJz8m0WwbveXAcxqi55wmBM8qtDGUMNKCNVNk7AORfb2jE9DPDPDQ0wuU-sLN6TaCq_FzzKCkNcZ_L/s1600/AerialView.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtpM3ti5WykrymLoLUblQz83fhPDAiFCezIjTeHtFpnp4UG5tX7K8IIutAci86hJTJz8m0WwbveXAcxqi55wmBM8qtDGUMNKCNVNk7AORfb2jE9DPDPDQ0wuU-sLN6TaCq_FzzKCkNcZ_L/s320/AerialView.jpg" width="246" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="font-size: medium; text-align: start;">
<span style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">This is a Google view of the yard from a few years ago. The center of this deep yard has a large area of clay and stone with a sparse crop of weeds. It's really a mess.</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Here are some before pictures, taken this spring.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-G09zRRRLvN6AxNKUjqzAzf_gj4SL8TX4Roor6AyiuHxb8GpP9Q5YaHH-AnjkQhdBS9RGDDWAnlPAvBTSsXnK-ajnkADe0A-aYCaE7jDkUursQm7xN9xH7PNubQQ1tUln9wz5NnKVt-9U/s1600/20180322_front+gate+yard.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-G09zRRRLvN6AxNKUjqzAzf_gj4SL8TX4Roor6AyiuHxb8GpP9Q5YaHH-AnjkQhdBS9RGDDWAnlPAvBTSsXnK-ajnkADe0A-aYCaE7jDkUursQm7xN9xH7PNubQQ1tUln9wz5NnKVt-9U/s320/20180322_front+gate+yard.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">This is the gate/entry area from the street. The fire pit is way too close to a very dry wooden fence. Poor Buddha is sitting on his drum where the movers unloaded him last October, on a concrete pad that held a small garden shed, which was removed by the previous owner. The shed will be replaced, as garden tools kept in the garage must be carried around the front of the house and into the backyard via the front gate. Not very efficient.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyJjG95xG6B3742HlUAZObGvhTcYjJHMcmF6LomTorOKCWfEhCxTzCiR6M9SB6aGSKJVk0f2VDHFrMed_eIlL5rZy6wQUA4PPF59gkZgO2lcLjz2LPWMonLK0xNim_UqZoOHDX5FMTBZNu/s1600/20180322_lack+of+privacy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyJjG95xG6B3742HlUAZObGvhTcYjJHMcmF6LomTorOKCWfEhCxTzCiR6M9SB6aGSKJVk0f2VDHFrMed_eIlL5rZy6wQUA4PPF59gkZgO2lcLjz2LPWMonLK0xNim_UqZoOHDX5FMTBZNu/s320/20180322_lack+of+privacy.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">This is the long view from the patio. The back gate is about 70 feet away The line of bricks is visible along the left fence. There is also a line of bricks along the right fence. They are hidden in the shadow. Most of them will be taken up and used to form an island in the center of the yard that will cover the rocky, barren spot..<br />
<br />
The brown area in the foreground is dormant Bermuda grass. This is a very popular grass in this area. Silly me thought the grass was waking up. Not so The greenery is weeds. A lawn care service has given it an initial spray and will keep on it until the weeds are gone. It appears that sod was laid from the house to about where the line of greenery marks the end of the dormant grass. Whether there is enough Bermuda to fill in the clay and rock area beyond is debatable. We'll see.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXEfooFRKHIlcnaJPsGtEaeeNFRH6HGBXrm7IB5pLB5Os6m2rABO6rCwRWdmOeJmeJqwiJt_wVw6VSUJbWCyqZ2NH9I6W-RTfRU7_GsNfpfdx7JBmQsMmt4HJ31KP9haPVkRZ6R3XeNoD8/s1600/20180322_left+fence.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXEfooFRKHIlcnaJPsGtEaeeNFRH6HGBXrm7IB5pLB5Os6m2rABO6rCwRWdmOeJmeJqwiJt_wVw6VSUJbWCyqZ2NH9I6W-RTfRU7_GsNfpfdx7JBmQsMmt4HJ31KP9haPVkRZ6R3XeNoD8/s320/20180322_left+fence.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">There are four large Rose of Sharon bushes planted along this side; they probably would not survive moving, as with them so close to the fence, there is no way to dig a large enough root ball to give them a chance. They need to go. The plants along this east-facing fence receive more sunlight than those on the other side of the yard and are considerably larger. There are six much smaller Rose of Sharon bushes along the opposite fence; they will be relocated in the yard.<br />
<br />
The small patch with the bird feeder in the foreground will keep its brick edging. Not sure what will be planted there -- peonies are top contenders at the moment, maybe annuals.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbmPDivfDh1WGdQMJ8V0I2tlhpLJ64INe3ezmS9H18bzXnNbJMoBIkglngaXrVpyc4bqwnq914A8b4ccJ7Xw4IkmiiEpsi7ufnZfL1C5VB6brK2a639XptzSxzmw_M3g9pn0HfkPfUl1Xz/s1600/20180328-AC+beds.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="441" data-original-width="800" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbmPDivfDh1WGdQMJ8V0I2tlhpLJ64INe3ezmS9H18bzXnNbJMoBIkglngaXrVpyc4bqwnq914A8b4ccJ7Xw4IkmiiEpsi7ufnZfL1C5VB6brK2a639XptzSxzmw_M3g9pn0HfkPfUl1Xz/s320/20180328-AC+beds.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">This flower bed contains azalea bushes, some kind of perennial that is just beginning to send out leaves, and numerous weeds. There is a hydrangea at the far left. This is the north side of the house. My initial thinking is to move the azaleas farther out into the yard, maybe making an azalea garden in the very back, and to plant hostas and other shade-loving plants here.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have a general concept of where I want to go with this project. I want to add three or four trees and some flowering bushes As well as create some kind of island to cover the ugly center of the yard. Just eliminating the straight lines of the fence borders so it doesn't resemble a bowling alley will be a good beginning.KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-75059827322011723232016-03-22T19:20:00.001-05:002016-05-09T17:57:06.364-05:00Condo Front Garden<br />
It has been four years since my last post. We sold the house in Missouri and now live full time in our condo in New Orleans. I miss the big garden but not the grunt work needed to develop it and keep it blooming. I thought I could assuage my gardening gene with containers here. We installed our statue "Proud Possession" by David Nyanhongo in front of the condo and dressed her with potted plants.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE2SuFanSKdiRlGj51uc-Yg-82jQ4b31neHc4fJuY9SBPDhh5mgodno8CYSrmJUZIPqzOvpSKk8sWDRy_ISspzm0Bhyfs9H71qUtm_Wl-X4cew4KXSeIePVGZuu_wOvfdqEsoZI3u_0_dm/s1600/GardenBefore-PC010080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE2SuFanSKdiRlGj51uc-Yg-82jQ4b31neHc4fJuY9SBPDhh5mgodno8CYSrmJUZIPqzOvpSKk8sWDRy_ISspzm0Bhyfs9H71qUtm_Wl-X4cew4KXSeIePVGZuu_wOvfdqEsoZI3u_0_dm/s320/GardenBefore-PC010080.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Pots and containers just didn't make me happy. I envisioned a real garden. So ... I borrowed a shovel and got to work digging up a plot. There was a bush missing, a part of the original landscaping that died some time ago, so the space was perfect. When I turned up the soil, I discovered the right side is almost pure sand and the left side was clay. I put garden soil on the shopping list. The ferns growing on the bricks are volunteers. In New Orleans they are called graveyard ferns.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSthC7tjIj7pW4yR380Sm5jpR4f4xKHTtEPaotDBQuGBOYipJPS7Xz117KdYF8QjJlIP0t4-fD5CkMqZ22S87oiFLfpuCeXC-5CXbogcyF6MwBXNh6YwzP-U4n8uUa3-esk5oFR80_UVSz/s1600/FrontDug-P3160160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSthC7tjIj7pW4yR380Sm5jpR4f4xKHTtEPaotDBQuGBOYipJPS7Xz117KdYF8QjJlIP0t4-fD5CkMqZ22S87oiFLfpuCeXC-5CXbogcyF6MwBXNh6YwzP-U4n8uUa3-esk5oFR80_UVSz/s320/FrontDug-P3160160.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On the right side of the sidewalk there was a deep depression. I filled it in with three bags of stones and more garden soil. This photo shows the first bag of stones in place.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPPpAoIUa8lCcVT0y-31AnXUWvzEehdyqSdLyi5tkyjtCeesPY-dhyiEh9CU8jsNABucN2ZBVVOMIRwAZ4yt8Li9pqNkrgAAdUpKSnLsNKsAectLRuC2oDMsD0D3hTiYlHjVGphx5tGS9Z/s1600/FrontStones-P3160161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPPpAoIUa8lCcVT0y-31AnXUWvzEehdyqSdLyi5tkyjtCeesPY-dhyiEh9CU8jsNABucN2ZBVVOMIRwAZ4yt8Li9pqNkrgAAdUpKSnLsNKsAectLRuC2oDMsD0D3hTiYlHjVGphx5tGS9Z/s320/FrontStones-P3160161.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After the stones and soil were in place, we had a hard rain. The runoff from the roof washed away a line of soil, revealing the stones below. I added a couple of pavers in the affected area. It's going to rain in a day or so -- the test. Meanwhile, this is how the right side looks, planted and mulched. It's a mix of pansies, salvia and snap dragons.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHrFHIA9v96NeiX3UW2tSuoV1D8DzlDT1kMBc9hL0FBk9i8y6KUvTelMit7O97LAFqivtVouLeA9To5xnkiI3dxwjiq9Elp2um0ZuKSobGp0V-_udR7eBRexgYaRqulFQEk_MTHMyNX6Gh/s1600/FrontFinishedRightSide-P3220010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHrFHIA9v96NeiX3UW2tSuoV1D8DzlDT1kMBc9hL0FBk9i8y6KUvTelMit7O97LAFqivtVouLeA9To5xnkiI3dxwjiq9Elp2um0ZuKSobGp0V-_udR7eBRexgYaRqulFQEk_MTHMyNX6Gh/s320/FrontFinishedRightSide-P3220010.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is the way the front left side turned out. In addition to the pansies, salvia and snap dragons, there are a couple of lavender plants behind the statue. The lavender is a disappointment; no fragrance like the plants we had in Missouri. The ferns and palms were released from their containers and now are planted. There are some low, spreading plants with white flowers in front of the statue. I don't recall the name and the pots have been taken to the dumpster already.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2xxYcZCamg1gYW1HIehM2NqCS6ZbBSvwAopzpRlWFth64u1tBdMo4s4vBMfz2pgRWWVBTZpEeUb5piqeiGZH3ZR86aSXQ8xrRZp7nKHPr-o-w_CFJyHhquMxLJnuWqaxqh8qzR22xJYJ2/s1600/FrontFinishedLeftSide-P3220013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2xxYcZCamg1gYW1HIehM2NqCS6ZbBSvwAopzpRlWFth64u1tBdMo4s4vBMfz2pgRWWVBTZpEeUb5piqeiGZH3ZR86aSXQ8xrRZp7nKHPr-o-w_CFJyHhquMxLJnuWqaxqh8qzR22xJYJ2/s320/FrontFinishedLeftSide-P3220013.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is the long view of the front. How it lasts with the next rain is yet to be determined. We enjoy the café set. Lloyd often sits there to read or chat on the phone or just watch the passing parade of people.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg41XAbI8yYVMe3froHj3UZKpPAqunPQO9tlTlsTqMVWVn8tY0xx5zLllQDOgF_2Zv3QJr3Ig7imwyts89QkgnHwzJ5ol9s81ofC4W8uD6KvSf3qk08_oTxy2YYWYYdjvtTflIG1rLrTwgn/s1600/FrontFinished-P3220009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="128" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg41XAbI8yYVMe3froHj3UZKpPAqunPQO9tlTlsTqMVWVn8tY0xx5zLllQDOgF_2Zv3QJr3Ig7imwyts89QkgnHwzJ5ol9s81ofC4W8uD6KvSf3qk08_oTxy2YYWYYdjvtTflIG1rLrTwgn/s320/FrontFinished-P3220009.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To the right of the front door, behind that little bit of wall, is a niche just big enough for our ceramic drum and Buddha. There is limited light in that area, so I'm trying out some Salsa Red double impatiens. They appear washed out, on the pinkish side, because of the sunlight/shadow contrast. Trust me, they are <span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>bright red</b></span>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFTg2c7h349TiOGL2CW-HYJe72O1_kmxewnePRxfgugCm-98haZD_uGbqqA9-02DgxedBngc95gv2PJ-Zrt9p4mKXMI2KBmel-qwQXpCxT2_qLr9nD1laOomm32jRHab0MNbhJOj5M_Xp8/s1600/BuddhaNiche-P3280018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFTg2c7h349TiOGL2CW-HYJe72O1_kmxewnePRxfgugCm-98haZD_uGbqqA9-02DgxedBngc95gv2PJ-Zrt9p4mKXMI2KBmel-qwQXpCxT2_qLr9nD1laOomm32jRHab0MNbhJOj5M_Xp8/s320/BuddhaNiche-P3280018.jpg" width="232" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The next step will be organizing the back garden. The area outside the back door is paved, so it must be containers. It gets a lot of sun, so I'm thinking to try a tomato plant. And this is where Lloyd can address his love of cacti. He's been good about not buying any yet.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlZ5bYJoOoJ-xcjh3lfwz5yehy9crVbiZuH04Dt1hGQ5MhCNlPmdiP6O_N8TstodgN0h1zKDLCYax1I7bGH3u0_DYAkJpj3ULnXhXi_jLy7UidLBGp_HN0zLsbdycGs8UflQ9YQvuoCVYG/s1600/BackBeforeP3160165.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlZ5bYJoOoJ-xcjh3lfwz5yehy9crVbiZuH04Dt1hGQ5MhCNlPmdiP6O_N8TstodgN0h1zKDLCYax1I7bGH3u0_DYAkJpj3ULnXhXi_jLy7UidLBGp_HN0zLsbdycGs8UflQ9YQvuoCVYG/s320/BackBeforeP3160165.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-91485440417270658862012-10-06T20:09:00.002-05:002012-10-06T20:09:42.789-05:00With Map and Compass<br />
Had an exciting phone call from greysquirl late this afternoon. She reported seeing turkey vultures roosting along Highway 240 northeast of town. I grabbed keys and camera and headed for the car with Lloyd following close behind. We must have been a sight. L had put on his heavy bathrobe over his clothes to keep warm and didn't bother to swap it for a jacket. (He's from New Orleans and looks for heavy jackets and scarves if the temp drops below 65 F.)<br />
<br />
There was a solid overcast, so although it was only 6:15 pm, dusk was settling. We got to the designated spot in time to see a dozen or so birds soaring and swooping above the tree line but did not see any roosting in a tree. We continued along 240 to its junction with Eastwood to come back west. When we got to the spot where we'd seen the massing of turkey vultures a few days ago, we saw several coming in from the area we'd just left.<br />
<br />
One of the neighbors told me that there is a big poplar tree on the south side of Eastwood where he has seen about 75 birds roosting. He says it can be seen from the road when the trees lose some of their leaves.<br />
<br />
There were no good photo opportunities, but when we came home, I fired up Google Earth, snipped a couple maps of the area and labeled them. <i>(Click on the maps to enlarge.)</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
The first map is the general area showing the east side of Marshall. The main traffic way for the turkey vultures seems to be along the railroad and Salt Fork Creek. We see them to the east and west, over town and farmland, but they seem to use the rr/creek corridor as a home base.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3OLkwfeXHtUFRk0xA4hG6dd028r9qA5VFflAScnVkHHm5Pat-vY0I7KrVCbYDw44IjJC6X_5V8Xq4f-zdpabuYfQBbbXnFZo6CWghyphenhyphenDw28PuEHLXoUZ7W4g8PqwP0B9u-bNNZhhYO5fq9/s1600/map-overall+Marshall-labeled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3OLkwfeXHtUFRk0xA4hG6dd028r9qA5VFflAScnVkHHm5Pat-vY0I7KrVCbYDw44IjJC6X_5V8Xq4f-zdpabuYfQBbbXnFZo6CWghyphenhyphenDw28PuEHLXoUZ7W4g8PqwP0B9u-bNNZhhYO5fq9/s320/map-overall+Marshall-labeled.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The next map is a closeup of the sighting areas. #1 marks where greysquirl stood and the direction she was looking when she saw the birds soaring and roosting in the area of the small oval. #2 marks the spot where the poplar tree roost is located. The large circle around it marks the rough outline of where L and I saw the large gathering a few days ago. It also shows the small railroad yard where backen and I saw the turkey vultures sunning themselves one morning. <a href="http://kathiebgarden.blogspot.com/2012/09/finding-bits-we-know-where-nemo-is.html" target="_blank">(Photos here)</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoWi1v9j1QqdyUQkoUF6DH7FSixEQqQPFu1XRWrBwVQ08jxe6qmNvNpjvkSlasYsiD1MHWvwE18w5OOsoE74e_kbpdO8lJtgPNlXUSTNiku2-ZEDIqw4sbmIh6zFaYMC6JsVMWlQ1WfJ9G/s1600/map-roost+area-labeled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoWi1v9j1QqdyUQkoUF6DH7FSixEQqQPFu1XRWrBwVQ08jxe6qmNvNpjvkSlasYsiD1MHWvwE18w5OOsoE74e_kbpdO8lJtgPNlXUSTNiku2-ZEDIqw4sbmIh6zFaYMC6JsVMWlQ1WfJ9G/s320/map-roost+area-labeled.jpg" width="257" /></a></div>
<br />
It's obvious that a hint of frost isn't enough to drive the birds to warmer climes, as they're still here. We're heading southward ourselves soon and will have to rely on greysquirl and backen to report when (if?) the vultures leave.KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-38548184266464072972012-09-30T21:53:00.000-05:002012-09-30T21:53:58.843-05:00Birds of a Feather<br />
This afternoon we drove over to Indian Hill Park to look for turkey vultures and were blessed with a kettle of maybe 60-75 birds soaring over the woods east of Salt Fork Creek. We watched them for 10 to 15 minutes. They seemed to be making a wide-sweeping circle centered on the woods south of the road. No way to get there to look for roost. After about 20 minutes, all of them had disappeared, apparently into the woods.<br />
<br />
What a sight! Wonder if they are gathering to migrate south.<br />
<br />
<i>Click on pictures for larger version.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYRYIGbXUvNTYxE8F8WjRLLF8lzgxDokl99P-mbzkxtoQwiYHQfmBFOVmWV-7KHxdfd5exYzdEv7rtXgD2Fk3KNZgLa41TR2FzZgIQPi-9twHVNHrGtARRuZ27jrGxUMva-Baa3OyujJjA/s1600/P9300021-cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYRYIGbXUvNTYxE8F8WjRLLF8lzgxDokl99P-mbzkxtoQwiYHQfmBFOVmWV-7KHxdfd5exYzdEv7rtXgD2Fk3KNZgLa41TR2FzZgIQPi-9twHVNHrGtARRuZ27jrGxUMva-Baa3OyujJjA/s320/P9300021-cropped.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqt5VxKAxOJ6O2KfqPMX2KRfxjKblLK0wCTZXr7af5t8S2kuZQPjeKv_JHzogOGCHo5YGHlpSgjt8fME0XsIMaewo-_q_W3Sqh4E3nIGQIk_7mXJWIqec_XSwQ779YabtLOBPjyG1D0yop/s1600/P9300024-cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqt5VxKAxOJ6O2KfqPMX2KRfxjKblLK0wCTZXr7af5t8S2kuZQPjeKv_JHzogOGCHo5YGHlpSgjt8fME0XsIMaewo-_q_W3Sqh4E3nIGQIk_7mXJWIqec_XSwQ779YabtLOBPjyG1D0yop/s320/P9300024-cropped.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOZw8FstIC-c9-GpDKbnrKkwb5jYm276M39sL8VniLPrCexNdon3BjjO06vVrN-3XPCOVjiDrqSZWZho44l3Rv0ASOdIlo87ZpBegHqq7ms1b5Fjt0_lyrM5tjwDwKim13uG87S2yM7NjO/s1600/P9300025-cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOZw8FstIC-c9-GpDKbnrKkwb5jYm276M39sL8VniLPrCexNdon3BjjO06vVrN-3XPCOVjiDrqSZWZho44l3Rv0ASOdIlo87ZpBegHqq7ms1b5Fjt0_lyrM5tjwDwKim13uG87S2yM7NjO/s320/P9300025-cropped.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFeSSh4BJIeZnspBZc9uHr7M42o6jWHLISdICMEWGLhlpRR0aUDZr7mMUM7AkIWmiQ5AiEemVAHs7PNs5ow0Xpou2IN-_YwiYOljQxa1QpSaa4BAU6Tg5yo2acC3_wPxMoA0DIEgzAJ7hX/s1600/P9300026-cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFeSSh4BJIeZnspBZc9uHr7M42o6jWHLISdICMEWGLhlpRR0aUDZr7mMUM7AkIWmiQ5AiEemVAHs7PNs5ow0Xpou2IN-_YwiYOljQxa1QpSaa4BAU6Tg5yo2acC3_wPxMoA0DIEgzAJ7hX/s320/P9300026-cropped.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Sorry for the jerky parts of the video. Editing is not part of my skill set. Click on the little triangle-marked button at lower left to launch.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-picasa-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9CmtUIhjSAfPVnifJMOsb88okpwpufl1RvQslfbvg2PkRxYweJBG0_N2a3L4vhmkJFdsCUFr9HEmY8aI1k0r8sT_R8FfeHfQwgDBYPESwQP5vxzTZAp7Ei14Q9BUVPKaBXixqoE7unGHX/s1600/P9300030.MOV" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?videoUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fredirector.googlevideo.com%2Fvideoplayback%3Fid%3D4822ef32158b1f7e%26itag%3D18%26source%3Dpicasa%26cmo%3Dsensitive_content%253Dyes%26ip%3D0.0.0.0%26ipbits%3D0%26expire%3D1351649635%26sparams%3Did%2Citag%2Csource%2Cip%2Cipbits%2Cexpire%26signature%3D67B3CF5CC546906D313293B30C0E5D0479368B94.75FBA83F7A4D9E851C5EC3EA24B0F10B9E13919C%26key%3Dlh1" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?videoUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fredirector.googlevideo.com%2Fvideoplayback%3Fid%3D4822ef32158b1f7e%26itag%3D18%26source%3Dpicasa%26cmo%3Dsensitive_content%253Dyes%26ip%3D0.0.0.0%26ipbits%3D0%26expire%3D1351649635%26sparams%3Did%2Citag%2Csource%2Cip%2Cipbits%2Cexpire%26signature%3D67B3CF5CC546906D313293B30C0E5D0479368B94.75FBA83F7A4D9E851C5EC3EA24B0F10B9E13919C%26key%3Dlh1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<br />KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-50618958173696499042012-09-21T13:49:00.001-05:002012-10-06T19:28:46.146-05:00Finding Bits (We know where Nemo is!)<br />
One day short of three weeks ago (September 1st), the second turkey vulture chick fledged. Both Big Bit and Li'l Bit were seen in the area a week later. <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/johncarton/sets/72157631472408848/" target="_blank">John Carton got pictures.</a> Today my friend Bev and I went hunting. On the Missouri Turkey Vultures website we're known as <i>backen </i>and <i>kben920</i>.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Click on a photo to see a larger version.</i></div>
<i><br /></i>
We arrived at the barn around 9 am and almost immediately saw a turkey vulture soaring overhead. It circled a bit and then left, headed toward the park, which is a mile or less east of the barn. On the day he fledged, we watched L'il Bit look long and hard out the north window of the loft. It's the top window in this picture. Considering he didn't know how far his wings would take him, he was smart enough not to launch from there. The bushes below the window are thorn-laden berry bushes. It would not have been a happy landing.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVonESieaKxtGE-nguKJL7KXnax2Wj3VlBOV6bi4wWhDOFSoirImtgeQwhHIpuMkWcv6Z-QlQ6dS6cFo71PI9gCp9XgszZpYYxjzZtM8RH4hvFGGKF6U3rjEpEM4Dq9iwXloaD5f_cfnh0/s1600/P9210003-briarpatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVonESieaKxtGE-nguKJL7KXnax2Wj3VlBOV6bi4wWhDOFSoirImtgeQwhHIpuMkWcv6Z-QlQ6dS6cFo71PI9gCp9XgszZpYYxjzZtM8RH4hvFGGKF6U3rjEpEM4Dq9iwXloaD5f_cfnh0/s320/P9210003-briarpatch.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
While at the barn, I snapped a picture of one of the nearby trees. A lot of the thumping noises we heard were likely the product of the branches hitting the tin roof.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAWkiCWr_9koMH7cYMH5oB5HnZKCvMULhdU_KHX7whiLISySpKvkcLCoTebNqxDezKB6cl6y-KXXQyk8QRphEi9iRd06S7R5aDq7BXCJ5FUW5Of7dk1X-YpjpzQRKVeYGhNF-8PBafDoS-/s1600/P9210029-TreeBramchesOnRoof.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAWkiCWr_9koMH7cYMH5oB5HnZKCvMULhdU_KHX7whiLISySpKvkcLCoTebNqxDezKB6cl6y-KXXQyk8QRphEi9iRd06S7R5aDq7BXCJ5FUW5Of7dk1X-YpjpzQRKVeYGhNF-8PBafDoS-/s320/P9210029-TreeBramchesOnRoof.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is the front of the barn. The hayloft door was the main entrance and exit for the turkey vultures. Don't you love the weathered look? The Parents chose a picturesque spot for the nursery!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGCbsiiUSHGpej6ogoqDonMWfu7S6EJxPXoLxJ4GEt0UO_iTNFlByGaIjXhyphenhyphenSFpTg777B0WOkQkM_JZuAR9iXObPDIXcp4HBQl_fP5Ieoutaxr6OhdykbeD7MWaXBl7tR18P2oY4RATamU/s1600/P9210018-LoftDoor&LadderBetter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGCbsiiUSHGpej6ogoqDonMWfu7S6EJxPXoLxJ4GEt0UO_iTNFlByGaIjXhyphenhyphenSFpTg777B0WOkQkM_JZuAR9iXObPDIXcp4HBQl_fP5Ieoutaxr6OhdykbeD7MWaXBl7tR18P2oY4RATamU/s320/P9210018-LoftDoor&LadderBetter.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
We saw a couple of cicada shells on the door. We heard lots of singing cicadas while we watched the Bits on line. One of the chatters dubbed them "zizzers" from the sound they make. See the "writing" on the brick above the door? I think that's turkey vulture for "good-bye and have a great life."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWP3hyphenhyphenC11IQIZkocpkE3UdEzketYzioKlvfVKenOO0n3x3HBiGUFrtmlcU0rMIp3W4WFZ-cZNikohtk5s6rOt5w-qjTygC9V6XoHNplMU8IYEzgBe47rA0xuYVlR0Npd895cDq9tiVV6VS/s1600/P9210022-cicadashells.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWP3hyphenhyphenC11IQIZkocpkE3UdEzketYzioKlvfVKenOO0n3x3HBiGUFrtmlcU0rMIp3W4WFZ-cZNikohtk5s6rOt5w-qjTygC9V6XoHNplMU8IYEzgBe47rA0xuYVlR0Npd895cDq9tiVV6VS/s320/P9210022-cicadashells.jpg" width="299" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Since there was no action near the barn, we followed the rough trail back into the woods behind the barn. The woods is dense with many fallen trees. We saw a lot of birds, including two woodpeckers that were having a gay old time playing tag in the treetops. The crows carried on a little bit and then disappeared.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGE60Gu9X4BunjT0Hvn29di_kam1XNqEnmcphnXzyawYv4GlzkMedxhohWbOwG5mFkCofkgLOsZJzs28MSpFw92QlLPtbfpKXGfIohtLlZXHZ7-IBJLp3ke8xr2binMFoMs8UMr7_5k1yZ/s1600/P9210008-dense+woods.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGE60Gu9X4BunjT0Hvn29di_kam1XNqEnmcphnXzyawYv4GlzkMedxhohWbOwG5mFkCofkgLOsZJzs28MSpFw92QlLPtbfpKXGfIohtLlZXHZ7-IBJLp3ke8xr2binMFoMs8UMr7_5k1yZ/s320/P9210008-dense+woods.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
As we returned to the barn area, we saw another turkey vulture circle overhead and disappear in the direction of the park. Bev spotted a couple of gorgeous beetles on a bush honeysuckle as we headed for the car. (If you know what this beetle is, please tell me via the comment box below.)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNOxT58iOhflL20N2XzeWVtdFTFpIJgl9RnlKkFdwIXoZJAvRRutW2ePRgqu3mj1wkIYBFJZgVyFaelSK8UbZqQQsQHBkYfdbMHfvgqQP1hCVMfrePcGB4x9O7Lk7xto17lavlgzlEjfo_/s1600/P9210031-beetles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNOxT58iOhflL20N2XzeWVtdFTFpIJgl9RnlKkFdwIXoZJAvRRutW2ePRgqu3mj1wkIYBFJZgVyFaelSK8UbZqQQsQHBkYfdbMHfvgqQP1hCVMfrePcGB4x9O7Lk7xto17lavlgzlEjfo_/s320/P9210031-beetles.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We drove east, toward the park, and saw a few vultures soaring. Just past the park entrance the road crosses a railroad bridge. In this picture you can see the rail line. The train sounds we hear on the web cam are from trains running along here. The hill behind the cars is the east side of the park.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic-hwXwpUpctt3N1YM11VlLevEWkstU8OAEYP0Zs266ihe2sTr4mTI6Zefbmu_qbA9Xxd5_mopiJIUeL6ZCCfB8Xu78cv5P5L0OWBnYdGPdKNqY3OjmuNGXAfpJtQgbnnQvhBdwWfAH3_B/s1600/P9210042-Train&Park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic-hwXwpUpctt3N1YM11VlLevEWkstU8OAEYP0Zs266ihe2sTr4mTI6Zefbmu_qbA9Xxd5_mopiJIUeL6ZCCfB8Xu78cv5P5L0OWBnYdGPdKNqY3OjmuNGXAfpJtQgbnnQvhBdwWfAH3_B/s320/P9210042-Train&Park.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
From the road we spotted a turkey vulture sitting on the dark brown rail car. The tracks at this point are in a small depression with the road running high above. With little traffic on the line, this is a great place to catch some morning sun! The photo isn't very clear because of the distance, making it difficult to tell if this is an adult or juvenile.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR0M0mfeAYjkLEs7iTcAgc-XjBQXA2BmneBhziZuZ5qPOgMyV31JF_NhJDZaJcuCzd97J4nwEMA8fPkYfr8Xs4vdTAnmTIoKSeFOct7UiIhMn3ydlxmsm_7iLTlA7iBJC2M-1qMl-RbJUe/s1600/P9210033-tvOnTrain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR0M0mfeAYjkLEs7iTcAgc-XjBQXA2BmneBhziZuZ5qPOgMyV31JF_NhJDZaJcuCzd97J4nwEMA8fPkYfr8Xs4vdTAnmTIoKSeFOct7UiIhMn3ydlxmsm_7iLTlA7iBJC2M-1qMl-RbJUe/s320/P9210033-tvOnTrain.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When I got out of the van to get the photo, I must have triggered an alarm, as suddenly a venue of 7 or 8 vultures flew up from below the cars and headed eastward, toward the trees that line Salt Fork Creek. A little later we spotted a juvenile sitting on another rail car. Could this be one of the Bits? I'd like to think so. It appears to be about the age of "our" fledglings.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh3fuv-HmeBqYv9GShgFZWuhK1hpf-ZdN3XOS7X9fCvtkUcxUZ94KhJB9tRye2F-xjZC81FA_LHFYJcmJEGmtzPVfFFxIDWlaA7W7tS5mM-FOp_inntsvD7nzcW0HkxBbeD_2DgKfyphUr/s1600/P9210043-juvieOnTrain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh3fuv-HmeBqYv9GShgFZWuhK1hpf-ZdN3XOS7X9fCvtkUcxUZ94KhJB9tRye2F-xjZC81FA_LHFYJcmJEGmtzPVfFFxIDWlaA7W7tS5mM-FOp_inntsvD7nzcW0HkxBbeD_2DgKfyphUr/s320/P9210043-juvieOnTrain.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Attempts to get photos of the entire venue didn't turn out so well. They managed to fly between us and the sun, making it difficult to see. I deleted a dozen or more photos of clear blue sky, alas.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLNH7gI28tlD_WIKRcrdnf-xyFcTJ1298lmLNTxwtIVmq9L5YKzGkMDJdOQs17VoZ8Rf_MaunA_hDydLffsLrQsCmcq5QD0KGbnbG7ihdQ-1S2rZyZBSv3P6bS6nyAZxcIYBuNoL1k95Uo/s1600/P9210040-aboveTrain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLNH7gI28tlD_WIKRcrdnf-xyFcTJ1298lmLNTxwtIVmq9L5YKzGkMDJdOQs17VoZ8Rf_MaunA_hDydLffsLrQsCmcq5QD0KGbnbG7ihdQ-1S2rZyZBSv3P6bS6nyAZxcIYBuNoL1k95Uo/s320/P9210040-aboveTrain.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
One of the birds flew west of us and I managed to catch him on the return flight. This photo and the one of the juvie made this excursion a definite success in my book!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxwO6k9sL-1As-iuUYimFDMq_3cFrDoSju4xpOySprGh4h2TEw433eGDtwDoSRNzebMkbPkMIUg9xgrwFwTdI4MONTED8_RC8ySnes7phBEgxAbu3jyJJMx0o-jtGWyKdv2guWWJpTxI7e/s1600/P9210046-Soaring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxwO6k9sL-1As-iuUYimFDMq_3cFrDoSju4xpOySprGh4h2TEw433eGDtwDoSRNzebMkbPkMIUg9xgrwFwTdI4MONTED8_RC8ySnes7phBEgxAbu3jyJJMx0o-jtGWyKdv2guWWJpTxI7e/s320/P9210046-Soaring.jpg" width="253" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Please note that I used a generic <i>he</i> in describing the birds as there is no way to identify gender by sight.KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-28391546444549393442012-09-15T18:40:00.000-05:002012-09-15T18:40:12.034-05:00Raptor Rehabilitation Project, UMo Columbia<br />
This post leaves the garden for a field trip to Columbia, Missouri, and a picnic at the <a href="http://www.raptorrehab.missouri.edu/index.html" target="_blank">Raptor Rehabilitation Project</a> at the University of Missouri's School of Veterinary Medicine. What a grand afternoon!<br />
<br />
The picnic and open house was for members of the program and friends who "adopt" a resident bird by donating to its upkeep. I adopted Sir Piginous, the turkey vulture, this summer after becoming fascinated with the species while watching a pair of turkey vultures hatch and raise two chicks in a barn in Marshall, Missouri, just six blocks from our house. The site is on Ustream at <a href="http://www.ustream.tv/missouriturkeyvultures" target="_blank">Missouri Turkey Vultures</a>, sponsored by the <a href="http://www.raptorresource.org/index.htm" target="_blank">Raptor Resource Project</a> of Decorah, Iowa. Although the chicks have fledged, there is hope that the parents will return to the nest next spring.<br />
<br />
The Columbia rehabilitation center is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Its goals are threefold: to rehabilitate injured birds of prey and release them into the wild; to educate the public about raptors and their importance to the environment; and to gain further knowledge about treatment of birds of prey and species behavior.<br />
<br />
Birds whose injuries are such that they would not survive in the wild are evaluated for participation in the education outreach program.<br />
<br />
Since 1972, the Project has maintained an all-volunteer group of veterinary students, other students, and community members. Financial and technical support comes from the College of Veterinary Medicine, the University of Missouri, the US Fish & Wildlife Service, the Missouri Department of Conservation, and community donations.<br />
<br />
The Project is located below the College of Veterinary Medicine complex in a quiet area. Over the years it has grown to include large flight cages and individual mews for resident birds. The large building to the right is the flight cage for large birds, such as eagles and turkey vultures. In this building the birds can exercise to gain wing strength before release.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;">(Click the photos for a larger image.)</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcFmW4K-oGLJQNf1_SpAavoy-COb3vGs2jK8bNbcPHViIP9PBNk4ykhYFd0mOvH16cQEoGJE8dfVKTktNIb9ELQfrctX_oBqqXcjijKobY5FcFq7_FbuXGRwIMORK8h0D2JBUqZvXkFYrH/s1600/P9150007-overview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcFmW4K-oGLJQNf1_SpAavoy-COb3vGs2jK8bNbcPHViIP9PBNk4ykhYFd0mOvH16cQEoGJE8dfVKTktNIb9ELQfrctX_oBqqXcjijKobY5FcFq7_FbuXGRwIMORK8h0D2JBUqZvXkFYrH/s320/P9150007-overview.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We were privileged to see the release of this little hawk as one of the picnic activities. I'm sorry I don't know which hawk it is. We heard a lot of information, and some it has slipped away! Perhaps someone can tell me so it can be properly identified.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNI1P7VwYaoBeYFCxLAAHA5umqcvxi2A_IRkjhvZB8AlFJf2DaT-OVgpfuxGgPxgfi_7F1e-7e45OuYUnoq-aOAQvr2hWf-bVpfzqjCuftKtt4Bcrzjeyx-hGfwvZxBVQDEYI0o9fyfjMR/s1600/P9150003-releaseBird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNI1P7VwYaoBeYFCxLAAHA5umqcvxi2A_IRkjhvZB8AlFJf2DaT-OVgpfuxGgPxgfi_7F1e-7e45OuYUnoq-aOAQvr2hWf-bVpfzqjCuftKtt4Bcrzjeyx-hGfwvZxBVQDEYI0o9fyfjMR/s320/P9150003-releaseBird.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
<br />
The main purpose of the visit was to see Sir Piginous -- aka Sir P. We were disappointed to see his empty enclosure as we toured the Project. He had broken a bone in one leg some time ago, which was successfully pinned. Recently the pins began to migrate, a natural reaction to the healing, and were removed. He is in the small animal hospital in a holding cage that permits him to move easily but not to hop around or bang the leg while healing continues. It is estimated it will be another few weeks before he is returned to his mews. The good news is, the three of us were permitted to go to the hospital to see him! I didn't take any pictures, as he was not looking his best. This photo was taken from the Project's new brochure. Sir P at his finest.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLr9sj-Ixfj3npx-b1Iy5NAepwmVvzk-R9Qo4AEhAQwOnxelaTUl0e_q3xEO6nX5v6DzPs_aDNSY7xEKmNPGd0_3VU23tEI7x5UvSwl_j6qk5uKVk6n5laFKd8ZtiTh4XepfjQ0WyYRzrY/s1600/SirPBrochure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLr9sj-Ixfj3npx-b1Iy5NAepwmVvzk-R9Qo4AEhAQwOnxelaTUl0e_q3xEO6nX5v6DzPs_aDNSY7xEKmNPGd0_3VU23tEI7x5UvSwl_j6qk5uKVk6n5laFKd8ZtiTh4XepfjQ0WyYRzrY/s320/SirPBrochure.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The next photo is from the Raptor Rehabilitation Project's website. The website says:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: #ccffff; font-family: verdana; font-size: 22px;">The Department of Conservation found the mature Turkey Vulture in Marshall, Missouri on May 26, 2000. Sir P was found to be thin but otherwise healthy with the exception of an old and chronic fracture in the right wing. The fracture could not be repaired, and the vulture was not able to fly. "Sir P" remains at the compound and participates regularly in educational presentations. Sir Piginous's current weight is 1.75kg.</span>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWYZjYi0rUeD5yuICHJ0ZTbRjuuORDDFJIQ33FkjjcR00u4OfPde3n8CWY1YnMpuk4T892FLsX9PZtMybO4Es7k04vDFdYKSosdO-AkgPGY8ayU1MFy2ewOBAmm2f2765a7pdzmbxLL0r8/s1600/SirPfromWebsite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWYZjYi0rUeD5yuICHJ0ZTbRjuuORDDFJIQ33FkjjcR00u4OfPde3n8CWY1YnMpuk4T892FLsX9PZtMybO4Es7k04vDFdYKSosdO-AkgPGY8ayU1MFy2ewOBAmm2f2765a7pdzmbxLL0r8/s320/SirPfromWebsite.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #ccffff; font-family: verdana; font-size: 22px;"><br /></span></div>
There is an exercise line on the grounds, where tethered raptors can fly (if they are able) or walk for exercise. One of Sir P's handlers said that he likes to go to the far perch, away from people and buildings, and enjoy the sunshine. I estimate the distance between the perches as about 75-100 feet.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmBhCTyClo2gNo7o1K2WP3Uhle7fggv8qg-3fEi9Y7mrSHrqoRIWaBKTb2RkzhRocna0OEn2_t85oa6jpZiQNXxLf64UNIRVFhxMolvVe-rf_OMTW_3hCV0HviWI7MhCZa1E203_FIErmr/s1600/P9150010-tether+line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmBhCTyClo2gNo7o1K2WP3Uhle7fggv8qg-3fEi9Y7mrSHrqoRIWaBKTb2RkzhRocna0OEn2_t85oa6jpZiQNXxLf64UNIRVFhxMolvVe-rf_OMTW_3hCV0HviWI7MhCZa1E203_FIErmr/s320/P9150010-tether+line.jpg" width="250" /></a></div>
<br />
After the hawk was released and disappeared into the woods, seven of the resident birds were brought out for show and tell. The barred owl appeared to be very soft and fluffy.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdQOVA7ZpH4M-T2EgIE7-hWZUaws0pgD1qsbVF3wNu9VNslMpKCMptA-SmHgkItBs5LTLPFth1AOW9RiNgU7huX4NG4n3ugU620wa7MVFtX0lHWvW3YyYQmYDD0ve5BXYdiXo_9WWMdQtZ/s1600/P9150012-barred+owl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdQOVA7ZpH4M-T2EgIE7-hWZUaws0pgD1qsbVF3wNu9VNslMpKCMptA-SmHgkItBs5LTLPFth1AOW9RiNgU7huX4NG4n3ugU620wa7MVFtX0lHWvW3YyYQmYDD0ve5BXYdiXo_9WWMdQtZ/s320/P9150012-barred+owl.jpg" width="287" /></a></div>
<br />
This is one of the two great horned owls. You could tell they were a bit nervous as the white feathers under the chin did a lot of fluttering. The handlers said they do that when they are warm (a sort of panting) or agitated.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-yBNhY7CUZk8Qoqbq4y_p6VM783GkDEevoQ4gXOfdEE_KlI8E5iuo2YGkhIX9i3Iwmn3uYurccdA0aPzWO46mWKHZJYffC-w5bllOSqLZ34YlMyJi_r5tOhTkNi6IG9dJOej2jXq5LXlW/s1600/P9150021-HornedOwl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-yBNhY7CUZk8Qoqbq4y_p6VM783GkDEevoQ4gXOfdEE_KlI8E5iuo2YGkhIX9i3Iwmn3uYurccdA0aPzWO46mWKHZJYffC-w5bllOSqLZ34YlMyJi_r5tOhTkNi6IG9dJOej2jXq5LXlW/s320/P9150021-HornedOwl.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
The Harlan's Hawk is the only resident who is not native to Missouri. The Harlans are a subspecies of Red Tailed Hawks. They live much farther north, but come South into this area to breed during the winter. This one was hit by a car and has a badly damaged wing. He took advantage of the breezy afternoon by spreading his wings frequently.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFk97uaFWG_gk84XjCEOHk51q4J8ooty1bhk6qubBHekxAGmIqCBEKf-kgN7xta43GOCcs8yxd99rDdSSfwG09r_0PCIXV1NhaC2wXJ8wUnu74oE0rGN7S1UCDyH550_IE89w0O_EYB85_/s1600/P9150018-HarlansHawk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFk97uaFWG_gk84XjCEOHk51q4J8ooty1bhk6qubBHekxAGmIqCBEKf-kgN7xta43GOCcs8yxd99rDdSSfwG09r_0PCIXV1NhaC2wXJ8wUnu74oE0rGN7S1UCDyH550_IE89w0O_EYB85_/s320/P9150018-HarlansHawk.jpg" width="278" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are two Red Tailed Hawks. The one on the left is a female and much larger than the male. The staff believe the female may be a cross between a Red Tailed and Harlan's hawk because of her unusual coloration.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5Rq77w44YBZdLJ7JcBIF7DmqkoplU9SqNXlOLhhRLOCGGa1kylcQbf_d9F6m2i9OoAnIQ6vzqBlqlj17KIns5Ai57XAZfaU2KUO2Ogb8kXoJqlTInLKjvLS5y1TQFF1Ra1NR3SdZunXS/s1600/P9150026-2RTHawks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5Rq77w44YBZdLJ7JcBIF7DmqkoplU9SqNXlOLhhRLOCGGa1kylcQbf_d9F6m2i9OoAnIQ6vzqBlqlj17KIns5Ai57XAZfaU2KUO2Ogb8kXoJqlTInLKjvLS5y1TQFF1Ra1NR3SdZunXS/s320/P9150026-2RTHawks.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Here is a better picture of the female Red Tailed Hawk.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBm7YNXH5Of3ZI8GrSGp2Dl1Cn-jCh8lXF0m3h1WIp4cQMOZKlwLQr58w13SQKV6VDjCVjmEAcOvTQi7or4RNQSpybDL9AO38xDBeL-xt2pkBMvxUXphJrGvpSP48I-saZCRh_MBDuf89w/s1600/P9150017-RedTailedHawk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBm7YNXH5Of3ZI8GrSGp2Dl1Cn-jCh8lXF0m3h1WIp4cQMOZKlwLQr58w13SQKV6VDjCVjmEAcOvTQi7or4RNQSpybDL9AO38xDBeL-xt2pkBMvxUXphJrGvpSP48I-saZCRh_MBDuf89w/s320/P9150017-RedTailedHawk.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This rumpled pile of feathers is another female Red Tailed Hawk. Her handler said that she looks like this most of the time, with feathers going every which way and tufts of down, normally hidden, poking out between her feathers.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7nUAuJS0milAnCEGJkRzWmsq6mIGEHh1css3qtWDoY8gGnywfPR7m5YDhTH76TuPKH56wgEVAx6Q40ArDPLQxK5lR7npNJ5Wd1SvOrmv8CraGFozi69qLYumX2KLQ_02nOQKrrU1hBHBw/s1600/P9150025-RedTailedHawk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7nUAuJS0milAnCEGJkRzWmsq6mIGEHh1css3qtWDoY8gGnywfPR7m5YDhTH76TuPKH56wgEVAx6Q40ArDPLQxK5lR7npNJ5Wd1SvOrmv8CraGFozi69qLYumX2KLQ_02nOQKrrU1hBHBw/s320/P9150025-RedTailedHawk.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
All in all, a delightful afternoon. And the abundant food was good, too. Many thanks to the dedicated volunteers of the Raptor Rehabilitation Project! </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106627354270144129.post-2239917845924071122012-08-26T17:19:00.000-05:002012-08-26T17:58:20.617-05:00Turkey Vultures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For the past couple of months I've been following the hatch and growth of a couple of turkey vulture chicks on a Ustream channel <a href="http://www.ustream.tv/missouriturkeyvultures">http://www.ustream.tv/missouriturkeyvultures</a>. The nest is in a barn only about 6 blocks from our house. Today one of them fledged, but not very successfully. One of the chatters sent this photo to me of Big Bit (as it was affectionately dubbed) on his way out the 2nd story door of the hayloft. His smaller sibling, Little Bit, is watching at right. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk-CN_Tf1bq_YI-b0xRkPHsnn9QL3FsRz5zbeiIe6evrhjeqKHLKL_RLiGbenAVZXnir6vgd46jwPuVu4sRumRMFa2sIg_QnAtTZQUd7FxAW4jS_Rkeykzv4dPfpg2bTqKeb3ErwHAFvON/s1600/BB+flies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk-CN_Tf1bq_YI-b0xRkPHsnn9QL3FsRz5zbeiIe6evrhjeqKHLKL_RLiGbenAVZXnir6vgd46jwPuVu4sRumRMFa2sIg_QnAtTZQUd7FxAW4jS_Rkeykzv4dPfpg2bTqKeb3ErwHAFvON/s320/BB+flies.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The shed in the next photo is about 30 feet in front of the barn. BB didn't quite make his goal of the shed roof, although he apparently wasn't hurt in the crash and fall. He took off in the direction of the arrows, with the dog in pursuit but eventually took cover in a large brush pile. You can see more photos of his route on my fotki page. <a href="http://public.fotki.com/ShenandoahLady/missouri-turkey-vul/">http://public.fotki.com/ShenandoahLady/missouri-turkey-vul/</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyXYb6Oa3ARQHBYZk8_wNggKxKvzTtvt8z3lUwE5-f_KSq8Hh8usWpDaDDlowCiQece9EVD62FuLfDIc_tkbDU0JgqPBHBQG_9ZYNYwzzsJP0n_xXbKGljF8CW2Ln3RdUwfO6k3zZdCHZ3/s1600/P8260016-landing2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyXYb6Oa3ARQHBYZk8_wNggKxKvzTtvt8z3lUwE5-f_KSq8Hh8usWpDaDDlowCiQece9EVD62FuLfDIc_tkbDU0JgqPBHBQG_9ZYNYwzzsJP0n_xXbKGljF8CW2Ln3RdUwfO6k3zZdCHZ3/s320/P8260016-landing2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Fotki wouldn't let me upload a video, so I'm putting it here. This was taken standing on the neighbor's property to the west of the barn and swings from the barn to the brush pile. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-picasa-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyiw0FMYdgMDUSe7p-rZfabfa5hvhLjs2Q5ehX-rzuFfdvZIak1dJMnpLefFvkvHJvqddHvW5l6MOzyyt5gdYjafv-J3kg4xKTbYmQaJeJaLm4XF5ZKHxxubjwrCPtQhz8mCpEER2VLdtj/s1600/P8260027.MOV" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?videoUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fredirector.googlevideo.com%2Fvideoplayback%3Fid%3D5544d6f3a8161cf6%26itag%3D18%26source%3Dpicasa%26cmo%3Dsensitive_content%253Dyes%26ip%3D0.0.0.0%26ipbits%3D0%26expire%3D1348609338%26sparams%3Did%2Citag%2Csource%2Cip%2Cipbits%2Cexpire%26signature%3DDDA24918AD240D34CC0A56417C7C262FD9B162CF.2337FB30F4D3FD49546048CC5581506D8C6978C6%26key%3Dlh1" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?videoUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fredirector.googlevideo.com%2Fvideoplayback%3Fid%3D5544d6f3a8161cf6%26itag%3D18%26source%3Dpicasa%26cmo%3Dsensitive_content%253Dyes%26ip%3D0.0.0.0%26ipbits%3D0%26expire%3D1348609338%26sparams%3Did%2Citag%2Csource%2Cip%2Cipbits%2Cexpire%26signature%3DDDA24918AD240D34CC0A56417C7C262FD9B162CF.2337FB30F4D3FD49546048CC5581506D8C6978C6%26key%3Dlh1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<br />KathieBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16639136060274128217noreply@blogger.com2