Thoughtful musings on various topics by interesting people at Blithewold
They’re listening
I like to think that encouragement and praise is the best method for inspiring productivity but must admit that threats and criticism can be pretty effective as well. Spite is such an excellent motivator. Don’t … Read more.
Ideal conditions
For the next few weeks Gail and I will plant, divide and move perennials in any kind of weather short of a monsoon-style downpour but we both had to agree that, even though we are … Read more.
Stellar weekend
Hey, what’s that thing up there that’s all bright and making me feel kind of warmish? Could it be…? No… I don’t believe it. Yes – it’s true – the sun’s out! Yesterday’s gale dried … Read more.
A jump on spring
The weather has been so mild this past week that we couldn’t help but be outside cleaning up – about two weeks ahead of last year. And I know we’re not alone – it seems … Read more.
Emerge
Take a pretty close look right about now and you’ll see it everywhere – spring is just poking it’s head out of the ground. The daffodils are 4 or 5 inches tall in some places, … Read more.
Force it
Anyone who has ever been to a flower show in February or March knows that the exhibitors work very hard to manipulate the seasons. We’re all so ready by now for winter’s end – especially … Read more.
Sow chilly
I’ve gone soft. The thaw we had a couple of weeks ago has totally ruined me for the rest of winter. I can’t go outside in the freeze anymore without complaining every bit as bitterly … Read more.
Terrarium rehab
Terrariums are (still) cool. Last year I wrote a post (Terrariums are cool (again)) on how I make – and became addicted to – terrariums. And if you were inspired then to make one (or … Read more.
Winter storage
What have you done with all of the tender perennials you bought this summer? Are they in the compost heap? Have you left them where they were planted in hopes of a mild winter come-back? … Read more.
Good news
Things are really looking up around here. I have to say that I still have goosebumps and this weirdly giddy feeling that must be called “hope”. Rhode Islanders, regardless of a devastatingly stinky economy (did … Read more.