BGgarden Blog

Ustream Making It Happen In Chicago

2011-07-29T21:29:00.000-07:00

Check out Boo Kitty in this image featured on the top left. He is such a scaredy cat he is actually frightened by the 3 week old bunnies wiggling around in the red colander I was using to transport them to the house for some play time. This is my world and I shared it real time from my garden this afternoon by tweeting this image out to the network of followers I have connected with in the past 2 years. The ability to share mobile images via twitter has ......... MORE

Google+ Gardening

2011-07-27T20:57:00.000-07:00

Join My Circle

A few weeks back I received an invite via email from my nephew to join his Google+ circle. Flattered that I was invited by my young techy relative who I just adore there was no hesitation to click into his circle. After spending about 15 minutes clicking around in the application the positive unfamiliarity reminded me of the early days on myspace.com. YES… not a typo I am referring to that social community that came out before Facebook. The sky was the limit with endless...... READ MORE http://bggarden.com/blog/2011/07/27/google-gardening/

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-13T20:52:00.000-07:00

Rain on Monday brought weeds but it also provided an image to share for Wednesday.

Happy Gardening Friends - Bren

I'm Back Via Google+

2011-07-10T08:06:00.000-07:00

Google+ Setting the Bar

I've been 'gone' from my google / blogger account for almost a year now. So much has changed in my social networking circle as well as on google. After being invited to join in a 'circle' I am addicted once again to all the exciting possibilities available using Google applications.

If you are on my follow list here at Blogger I hope you will continue to share with me your love for life in the garden world. I look forward to adding you all to my 'circle' of networking.

Evening Summer Getaway

2011-07-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

Summer Evening Getaway Snapshot

As the gas prices this summer go up, I find myself discovering creative ways to keep the family entertained without going to far from home. We have always been the family....... Read More

I've Moved .... come join the 'House Warming'!

2010-09-03T14:32:00.000-07:00

Look what I've been up too..... I miss y'all so stop on by my new site at BGgarden.com

Don't Panic!

2010-01-25T11:07:00.000-08:00

This month has been a wonderful learning experience with HTML / CSS programing for me. Today I finished linking my Blogger BLOG to my domain name (BGgarden.combut now I am working on the final 'Tweeks'.

** IF I disappear for a day or so this is why - my blog will be back up and running as soon I work through the little glitches!

Mini with Huge Delight

2010-01-20T14:38:00.000-08:00

I can't believe how huge her blooms have become.

This mini rose bouquet is sharing Mid-January with me. She gives me hope when I look at her soft yet stunning blooms. She gives me a thrill as I dreaming of what other little surprises January may hold.

Collage of Mini Rose Bouquet

and just when you thought the show was over ....... another bud of hope appears!

When Wednesday

2010-01-20T12:16:00.000-08:00

Today I was inspired to share a 'When'. Thank goodness it rhymes with Wednesday so we are going to make it a 'When' Wednesday. My question for you is : WHEN did you discover your love for the garden?
I was inspired today by a Garden Connection I made on the Social Network Facebook. If you haven't given Facebook a 'click' yet I would like to encourage you to take a peek over at my 'garden page' at BGgarden Fan Page. I have made some wonderful connections on this site. Diane Downey is one of those precious gardeners whos' inspiring blog at Angels with Dirty Finger Tips made me take a minute to remember what inspired me to get into the garden. Thank you Diane! I hope I can encourage someone who happens to click onto my world here today as I share wonderful memories from the gardens I have experienced.. My thoughts to share today is 'WHEN?'

When I was a young girl I enjoying the blooms from my parents lilac tree in our small city back yard. I remember visiting gardens that at the time could only hold my attention for a short moment. As I grew older my parents found creative chores for me and my siblings to do with hopes of keeping us constructively busy. These dreaded chores were possibly created because my parents had a dream in the garden but didn't have time to do the work involved. When I was in Grade School I hated the garden due to these summer consuming chores. I vowing to NEVER have grass when I grow up because my parents would make us go out in their HUGE garden and weed. My bad experience was not being able to tell a WEED from a SEEDLING so of course I would spend plenty of time being punished for choosing the wrong green to pick!
When I entered my teenage years I found a new love for Green making extra GREEN (cash) to spend at my best friends family owned a greenhouse.

When I became a home owner as a young adult I found myself in a garden. Not a garden that I had made so it was quickly destroyed because I had no idea what I had got myself into. I was determined to make my own garden just as we had made our new house our home. This is when I feel back in love with the garden.

The Mailbox Image is from my first garden. When I maxed that yard out we moved to the country. Finding a joy in being able to grow your own food has been an important part of my life as an adult.

Today I asked myself 'When' with curiosity to what my other Garden friends may be inspired to share.

As I look back on my 'When' I can't help but wonder what my children will remember. It has been a blessing to watch them grow and to be encourage to add to their surroundings by growing in their own space. It has been amazing to a grade school project a child was encouraged to participate in has lead to her love for planting her own flower garden each year.

When my daughter and I brought home some major awards this past summer for our growing experience it was a joy of a life time. I hope some day she will look back on a Wednesday and remember 'When' the garden became an important part of her life.

Let the Bulb Blooms Begin

2010-01-17T17:33:00.000-08:00

I can't get enough of the Amaryllis that is putting on a wonderful color show in our home this Sunday. I hope you aren't sick of her yet because I have a few more of my favorite images of her to share. Today was a foggy cool day in my neck of the woods. The hazy snow bright day provided great soft natural lighting to take advantage of.

The image above is super fun - look at the show getting ready to be put on. The best thing about this collection is we have a few more buds still waiting to open on this plant alone. I think the best part is that I planted her.: Holiday Bulb Planting / October 2009

And just think..... I planted close to 100 bulbs that are being forced in the greenhouse! Can't wait to see what opens next to share with you.

Happy Sunday

Over looked - Bloom Day

2010-01-15T19:24:00.000-08:00

One of the highlights of my day was sharing a quick video blog from my greenhouse. There is nothing more rewarding then to share my learning experience and then to receive no more then ONE positive comment from a viewer that I had inspired them. THAT MY FRIEND... is what blogging is all about for me.

Happy Bloom Day - This one was over looked!

This week has been a roller coaster of emotions for me. The excitement of watching my business grow has been over whelming at times and the rush of realizing I am NOT the only one out there trying to get photos noticed.

Last night on a dinner date, I noticed a group of collage students getting their photo taken by one of the friends at their table What caught my eye was the young man on the end whipping out a NIKON beauty that looked an awful lot like mine. This lovely camera had a lens I was not familiar with. The shape of the shorter lens caught my eye. I'm thankful that I spoke up to inquire about the camera because I not only got to use the Nikon D80 (18-70mm lens) it was also brought to my attention once again the growing trends of social media. The young Nikon owner was studying Floral Photography. It was a delight to meet him and a much needed eye opener.

SO WHAT... RIGHT? There are thousands of 'photographers' out there snapping photos of flowers to use on their blog. What makes YOU different? What makes YOU stand out from the rest of them? All of these thoughts ran through my head during my Bloom Day as I try to find my creative side in the melting gloom of winter here in Ohio. note: I don't think the sun actually came out once today. How do I dare pick up my camera..... WHY?

It took a much needed phone call with someone I have befriended on the Garden Network to inspire me to look beyond what is in front of you and to continue on with what you believe in. During that phone call I realized I am REAL. WE ARE REAL in the Garden Network. We live it - we feel it and we share it! Just as honest as it can be and not for our own greed. After the phone conversation I realized we never know the path we are going to take but if you continue to do what matters to you and YOU truly believe YOU are making a difference.... IT IS WORTH the Journey.

There was some extra time in my evening to catch up on my Social Networking at Twitter... Bloom Day was not over and I had a few moments to check out a PODCAST from a favorite Iris Farm I enjoy to follow. I clicked over to Ken Druse / Real Dirt who interviewed Kelly D. Norris, a horticulturist who manages the Rainbow Iris Farm. Today while listening to his Podcast not only did I learn about some new plants that would THRIVE in zone 4-6 and was reminded once again of the growing Social Media. The fact that there are 100 million blogs and not all of them will survive the growing trend. QUALITY will win out - The cream will rise to the top!

It was that moment I noticed that something I had been waiting for but had some how overlooked had arrived. Amaryllis bloom I had brought into the house a few days ago and was anxiously waiting for her to bloom... HAD OPEN! That was truly an image worth sharing on Bloom Day!

THANK YOU once again May Dreams Garden for heading up this event. I hope if you see this posting you will stop by her inspiring blog at : MAY DREAMS GARDEN

It Bloom Day in the Garden Network

2010-01-15T12:29:00.000-08:00

Today is Bloom Day in the Twitter Garden Network ! Do a search for #bloom day and you will most likely find someone posting a bloom to share on this first month of 2010.
It would only be appropriate for ME to share a V-Blog with what is BLOOMING in my Greenhouse here in zone 5. Grab a cup of tea and sit back and enjoy the Work , Furry Friends and of course new Blooms going on in the BGgarden.

Happy Bloom Day Everyone and if you blog about Gardening please join in the fun!

Thank you May Dreams Garden for heading up this wonderful event. I hope you will stop by and take a look at what other garden bloggers shared on this Bloom Day - January 15th.

Headache NO More....

2010-01-14T12:05:00.000-08:00

courtesy the greenhouse on a sunny January day! The tempature is climbing to the mid-30*'s as we head into the weekend. I woke this morning with a horrible sinus headache. It was so tempting to stay inside take some sinus medicine. The Greenhouse was calling me.........

From the Greenhouse.... my headache was gone after some basic chores were complete. One of the wonderful benifits of owning your own little greenhouse is the THE HEALTH FACTOR!
A very GREEN Report :

I have learned so much so far this winter. It is hard to believe we are half way through January. I knew this winter would fly by. I truly believe it is all up hill from here as far as the surviving the winter with the greenhouse being productive. Not only do we have yummy vegggies ( lettuce, tomatoes and herbs) growing and providing for my family we have wonderful EYE CANDY! It is amazing the sweet smell from the mini yellow rose that is blooming in the bottom middle images. AND HOW ABOUT those snapdragons? Looking forward to doing some transplanting with those Hens&Chicks in the bottom left corner of the image above. IF you have any tips on how to cut those little shoots off and have them survive I would love to hear from you! Promises from the buds with some warming color yet to come is what I see in that Mandivilla bud in the top right image of the collage.

It has been a productive and a very healthy afternoon in the greenhouse and I hope to share a V-blog with you later tonight with some tips on WATER SOURCE for the Zone 5 winter greenhouse. Be sure to stop back and share your thought with me.

I am going to leave you with this WONDERFUL YAWN from Boo Kitty!
Enjoy your Thursday friends.

Winter Weekend

2010-01-11T17:17:00.000-08:00

Winter on the River in the Black Swamp

This is where I am coming to you from....

Having fun learning tips from the pro-Bird Watchers on how to snap some Northern Winter Birds. I am excited about these photos on Day #3 of my bird watching adventure. Look at the third on the end above with his beak full of food! By day three I realized the best shots come from my home window with the bird feeder just a foot from my lens. It sure beats standing out in the 16* F weather!

I hope you had a wonderful weekend like we did in the BGgarden!

Friday Green and Feathery

2010-01-08T19:43:00.000-08:00

Shes not a perfect butterfly bloom but sure happy to she her after a week of battling the cold tempatures outside the greenhouse. It has been quit the job trying to figure out the best way to keep the greenhouse above 50* without the help of the sun. We haven't seen the sun for more then four days for longer then 3 hours. A day (or at least 6 hours) of sun would be a wonderful event for the greenhouse. Until the sun decides to show it's warmth I will make do!

Summer Favorite is doing great in the 55* January Greenhouse.

I love the color this Armayllis is share in the greenhouse with us. It seems she is taking her time so I am moving her into the house so we can enjoy her bloom when it arrives.

The house is maintaining 55*F during the 20*F days. At night we have dropped to a low of 45*F on a 10*F clear sky night. I must say I am a little worried about this weekend where we are to reach this years lowest tempatures for a few days straight. Praying for some sun!

The Parsley is doing well as the Amaryllis takes her time. I can't believe how quick the lettuce 'pops'. Do you see the green in the right image in the collage? That is a green sprout within 48 hours of planting it!
I was inspired to do this Friday Green posting from my dear friend Tootsies' Fabulous Fertilize Friday. I hope you will stop by her link and check out everyone who participated in this days blog entry at : Tootsie Time

Seymore - my shadow in the garden inspecting the new bird feeder we just put in the tree.

One of this years winter adventures is taking photos of some of the birds that find their way to our garden. I am so inspired by the wonderful garden bloggers who share such fabulous images like ; Philip of Dirty Theropy.
I am not having much luck with the close ups but it could be that I shoot through the window. It could also be my shadow ( in the image above) who loves to follow me EVERYWHERE when I am outside in the winter garden.

This Red Fellow was my favorite from today...... I have lots to learn so I'm looking forward to lots of practice this winter.

Enjoy your Weekend!

Twittering all the way to BUFFA10

2010-01-06T18:35:00.000-08:00

Today was a TWITTER kind of day in the BGgarden. Cold and cloudy in my neck of the woods with a forecast including more snow. Great day to sit and do some research online. I first started by doing a hash tag (#) #seed search. With in minutes, I received a dozen responses with seed companies fellow Garden Twitters recommended. Are you on Twitter? Look me up at : http://www.twitter.com/BG_garden

Most of my free time today was spent sorting seeds from 2009 that were saved for spring 2010 planting. Scanning through the catalogs I have received in the mail as of 1/7/10 and sorting through my container of plant tags I hope to reuse.
IF you would like to view the list of companies that were suggested on Twitter and Facebook please stop by my fan page at : BGgarden Fan Page

ORDERING - WHO DO YOU TRUST?
The link above is a great posting from last year where I blogged about ordering seeds. One of the wonderful things about blogging is that we can use it as a referance for later use. Be sure to pay attention to comments left on this entry.

CALLING ALL GARDEN BLOGGERS

Today my greenhouse LITE up with excitement........ when I received and email invite to the Garden Blogger Buffa10 event. VIDEO AT : BGgarden LIVE

If you can't view this video please stop by my Garden Channel at Youtube : BGgarden LIVE . IF you would like more information about the Garden Blogger 3rd Annual Event WITHOUT watching my silly little video please stop by Garden Bloggers BUFFA10 BLOG or email at : gardenwalkbuffalo@yahoo.com.

I can't wait till July 8 - 11! Hope you will check this event out!

Winter Walk in the BGgarden

2010-01-05T20:04:00.000-08:00

My walking partner - Seymore Kitty

This morning I took the camera along on my hike in the woods. Winter is one of my favorite seasons in the garden to take photos and enjoy the sounds of the Black Swamp. I hope you will take the time to enjoy my walk with me.

Winter Walk in the BGgarden / http://www.youtube.com/BGgardenLive

Shades of Summer hide under the fresh snow. If you look close you can see the snow that was falling as I took these photos.

Winter in the BGgarden

This week I am technically away on assignment. Many of you ask where I was heading off to I will share that I am helping a group of students 'discover' and hopefully be inspired by the art of nature and photography. It is all volunteer but it is an experience of a life time. I would like to inspire you to check out where you can get involved in your community. Volunteer to make a difference in any way you can in the new year! I honestly don't know how some of the blogger find time to work full time and share their experience. It has been a busy week - and it is only Tuesday!!!!

I hope you enjoyed my walk through my neck of the woods this morning!

Happy New Year Planting 2010

2010-01-04T09:04:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year 2010... not wasting anytime and getting busy planting some hardy finds in the greenhouse. Need a green fix? Join me in the greenhouse.

I would also like to invite you to join my subscribers list at : BGgardenLive

Be sure to leave a comment - is there something you would like me to share about home greenhouse projects?

BGgarden Live

2010-01-03T17:57:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2010! I'm totally excited here in the BGgarden to welcome in the New Year with a new YouTube channel at BGgardenLive. (http://www.youtube.com/BGgardenLive ) I would like to invite you all to stop by my channel and become a subscriber or just stay on my follow list here at Blogger for all the latest video blogging taking place in my garden 2010. IF you have a youtube account please comment so I can add you to my list to follow.

BGgarden Live ON YOUTUBE

New Site - New Inspiration - LETS GROW SOMETHING!!!!

Who Inspires You?

You know I truly believe it is important to give CREDIT where it is due. There are so many people we come in contact with in our lives that touch us in ways we sometimes don't even realize. Today as I launch my new BGgardenLive Channel it is important to me to reconize the #1 person who has inspired me to KEEP THAT VIDEO ROLLING in the garden! I have learn so much in such a short time from my Green Mentor who's master pieces teach us simple tips for daily living that truly make a difference. I want to give much deserved appreciation to someone who has inspired me in so many ways in 2009. I want to celebrate my dear green friend Shawna at Gardening Nude who has recently been recognized for her talent to inspire to grow green in the Chicago Now Website. I've added a link that I created to my side panel here on my blog as a token of my appreciation. For it is Shawna I can bounce questions off of and look up to for growing in the Garden Network. I hope you will click over and check this Chicago Lady out! Shawna - SUPER BIG (((HUGS))) from your friend in the BGgarden.

Can you think of someone who has inspired you? I would like to encourage you to give that person credit on your blog today as well. I also want to ask you to bookmark my website at BGgarden.com because it is my goal in 2010 to continue to share all the wonderful things GREEN growing in my neck of woods by sharing my love for photography.

* I will be off for the week on a Photo Assignment and look forward to sharing new Images January 11th!

Happy New Year 2010~

Happy New Year!

2010-01-02T00:21:00.000-08:00

Images from the New Year Celebration......looking forward to sharing more blooms with you in 2010!

The kitties are all snug in their boxes with all eyes on our New Years Day guest. My dear friend brought her adorable pup over for a visit with Olivia my Aussie. The photo of the day was the image I share above. The guest was a gentleman and kept his distance. The kitties wouldn't have missed anything as you can tell from the photo.

Happy New Year Everyone!

The Blooms of 2009

2009-12-31T11:07:00.000-08:00

I can't title this entry the 'best' because I have over 400,000 photos from summer in the Garden alone and it is IMPOSSIBLE to sort through all of them before the NEW YEAR! However, I did enjoy a morning sorting throw 2009 - a year to remember. I hope you are inspired to think back on what a glorious year this truly was.

I would like to invite you to stop by the BGgarden Fan page at :BGgarden on FACEBOOK
There are more images shared on that site with friends in the Garden Network.

I hope you enjoyed my look back on 2009 and share the joy of the year to come!

It was a busy Bloom Tuesday

2009-12-29T21:02:00.000-08:00

Busy day in the greenhouse. The sun was out most of the day and I was able to do some major cleaning before we prepare to plant some new seeds. The rose above is my Happy Bloom Tuesday Image to share. She is a mini rose that I have had for about 2 years now. Enjoy the bloom... she is coming to you from my greenhouse.

I took my Fuji FinePix s2000HD with me out to the Greenhouse today while I did my chores. I share some information about the new heater and some cleaning that needed to be done. In the North side of the greenhouse I am getting a little unwanted green so we spent a few minutes with bleach water cleaning that up.

Looking forward to planting some seeds tomorrow. I hope you will join me!

Garden resolutions for 2010?

2009-12-28T10:04:00.000-08:00

Yes... a question to consider now that the Holidays are passing by and the New Year is soon to arrive. In today's economy we need to think about growing for health and for necessity. Did you know you could grow enough food for yourself in a container? Did you know you can find peace of mine growing some grass ( I am talking the kind you walk in!) in a favorite container? I practice what I preach.... I find peace in my dirt and I enjoy feeding family and friends with the treasures I grow each year. My goal today is to inspire you with those green ideas. I would like to encourage you to start THINKING now about about what you can grow in 2010.

New Year's Garden Resolutions 2010

Look beyond the weeds and find the blooms in everything you do. Words to live by.... if you can do this it will make just about every situation in your life 'smell like roses'.

In the image above I am holding a 'prize' heirloom Russian plum that was new to the BGgarden.com this planting season.

I look forward to sharing my 'square foot' gardening adventures after putting in two raised 4'x4' beds right outside my 10'x12' greenhouse. We completed this stage of the 'Greenhouse Project in late October. I can't wait to share early spring planting ideas and the progress of stage 2 of this project. I am eager to use the supplies I purchased in the fall for the additional raised beds for perennials and other edible vegetation.

Learning and Share as we go in the Home Greenhouse. Check out my link to the right titled 'Bren's Greenhouse to see how it all began. In the short three months I have been using the greenhouse. we have learned SO MUCH! I am super excited to start some new seeds this week as we welcome the new year and share them as they grow with you! Are you INSPIRED to start a house of your own yet? A group of local growers who recently toured my greenhouse project have already begun plans for their own greenhouse projects. It is always wonderful to hear the stories of how we can INSPIRE one another to enjoy and live GREEN! This is one of the true blessings in SHARING GREEN!

Expanding the ART of garden from my studies in new photography techniques that will inspire to look behind the color of the soft pedals.

Please be sure to share your goals as I did after being inspired by : Garden Variety facebook posting asking to share Garden Resolutions for 2010. I know Ms.Reimer would love to hear from you!

I hope you will leave your URL so other can surf from my resolutions to yours for 2010. Stop back later this week as I will be sharing the 2009 Garden IMAGES... a GREEN Year to remember!~

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T21:03:00.000-08:00

This is the perfect day to share some Red and Green from the greenhouse.

MERRY CHRISTMAS from my Greenhouse :

Sharing what's blooming today in the greenhouse. Excited about the new gas heater that was just installed.

Not so Wordless

2009-12-22T22:31:00.000-08:00

Oh my word.... I just realzed I posted a Wordless Wednesday on TUESDAY! that is an indication of what kind of week this has been. BUSY- BUSY - BUSY! I don't know if I am coming or going with all the shopping , baking , menu planning, wrapping, cleaning to prepare for the Christmas celebration.

The snow falls so peacefully out in the garden.

It's Boo's turn to enjoy the Kitty Christmas tree on the front porch.

My Christmas Greeting to share with you today on the 3rd day is from the cozy fireplace.

Cookies are baked and the shopping list is complete for the big meal on Christmas. Almost time to relax.... I wonder what day of the week that will be?!

Merry Christmas -Happy Holidays to everyone!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-12-22T06:23:00.000-08:00

1st Day of Greetings

2009-12-21T09:23:00.000-08:00

This week I would like to share with you Christmas Greetings from my neck of the woods. We started the end of the week out right when the snow fell completing the outdoors decoration. I am hoping it stays around for St. Nicks arrival on Thursday. Always fun to find the reindeer hoof prints in the snow! ::wink::

Snow covers the garden but the memory of what grew warms the Cheer in the Home!

I was inspired to share a Monday Metamorphosis after enjoying the images of one of my favorite Home&Graden bloggers : Between Naps on the Porch. I hope you will visit her blog for it will surly put you in the mood to decorate or at least spread some Holiday Cheer as you pass her link around! It is blogs like Susan's that prevent me from sending in my renewals to most Home Magazines.

Metamorphosis of my Christmas Tree

(I know this is a repost but I LOVE it!)

Birdhouse's - a reminder of our friends in the garden.

Watering Cans are a must even in a tree!

Birds that I struggle to capture even when they are on my own indoor tree!

A favorite treasure that is found in the Winter Garden each year.......

A reminder out my kitchen window to share with you. As we enjoy the sweeties and warm coffee's with friends be sure to fill the birds dishes as well. Happy Christmas Friends!

I leave you today with Jack - you know Jacks 'Sugar Plum Fairies dancing in his head' have feathers! (Jack is out of focus but this was a quick shoot with the wrong lens.)

Snow completes the Christmas Decor

2009-12-19T08:39:00.000-08:00

Busy weekend for everyone but I had to share some images from our neck of the woods. The snow around the greenhouse landscaping completes the Christmas decorating I did yesterday. The Garden kitties are enjoying the snow from the warm porch under their own little Christmas tree.

Have a Save and Happy Weekend!

Friday Bloomin' Christmas Tree

2009-12-18T10:36:00.000-08:00

We need snow in my neck of the woods to finish the Christmas decorating outdoors. Nothing like a fresh layer of sparkling white snow to add to the magic of Christmas. One of the last places I have decorated this year for the Holiday is my Greenhouse / Bunny Barn. Today I added some natural grapevine, pine rope with some ribbon to the entrance. The door looks a little rough because it is a recycled door but I think the ribbon adds to the kick plate we decided to leave on the door. There is so much I want to add to this entrance landscape but remember we just completed this area in time for the winter to arrive.

Fertilize Friday for my friend Tootsie!

Green - Green - Green

Lettuce is doing wonderful and tasting super yummy from the greenhouse. The Naustrsium is now a YEAR ROUND favorite for my salads as it grows rapidly in random containers I sprinkled some seeds in.

SOON TO COME - Seedlings and new Leaves

I was super excited to return from Ireland to find that my rose tree had grown fuller and the roma seeds are now seedlings. I might have some yellow mini rose blooms by Christmas ( upper left in collage). I can't wait to share some of those herbs in the kitchen soon enough.

I know it doesn't look like Christmas with all these summer blooms spreading some sunshine in the greenhouse. I hope you are enjoying the color as much as I am - this makes greenhouses in the winter time worth the extra effort needed to keep them running.
I think the next photo will be my BLOOM for FRIDAY....

Here we go again.... I KNOW ... PAPERWHITES! These are in my greenhouse being paired up with Diamond Frost and the Lime Tree. Can you ever get too much of the Paperwhites classy blooms?! Please be sure to stop by my dear friend Tootsies blog to see what others have blooming today. It maybe snowing and not much blooming but there is always images to share from the garden archive. Tootsie has inspired me in many way with my greenhouse experience. THANK YOU DEAR TOOTS!
What to read more about my greenhouse? Check out the link in the right bar and click on 'Bren's Greenhouse'.

MORE DECORATING TO DO .... only a few days left till the celebrations begin!

I returned to the house to find Jack had found a new place to nap. Looks like he is thinking about getting into some trouble again... he likes to 'bat' at my bulbs on the tree. Same on you JACK!

THE CHRISTMAS TREE - Blooms!

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Frosty Thursday in my Garden

2009-12-17T07:29:00.000-08:00

It is truly beginning to look a lot like Christmas in my neck of the woods.......

As the frost covers the ground like a lite dusting of snow. The breeze this morning brought in a very cold 12*F as I walked about the garden to share what this time of year brings. Nothing like 'Jack Frost' nipping at your extremity's early in the morning as the sun rises. I do believe the Ornamental grasses are my favorite part of the garden in the winter months when everything else has gone to rest.

The Pond has frozen - and the ice skating will begin!

The herbs in the garden borders have a pretty dressing of frost on them. There are wonderful colors before the dead of winter arrives. Be sure to look close in your garden to find those hidden treasures so you do not miss them before they are gone.

The Coral Bell takes on her winter attire

A reminder of Autumn Slender

Time to bundle up and head back out for some Christmas shopping. I am trying to not feel like I am behind after spending a Holiday in Ireland during what normally would be my busiest time of year. On that note let me share with you once again a favorite bloom in my home this time of year.

Happy Christmas Season - be safe and healthy!

Garden World Report in Ohio

2009-12-15T19:42:00.000-08:00

Be sure to click on over to the GARDEN WORLD REPORT with Shirley Bovshow to see her Holiday Garden Tour. I was honored to be a part of this show last week. You can catch my segment at the link below.

Honored to be a part of the Garden World Report!

Watch live streaming video from gardenworldreport at livestream.com

I hope you enjoyed my clip featured on Garden World Report. If you enjoy looking at Garden Centers and what they have to offer during the Holiday season please check out my other Holiday Green Tour Entries at the link to the left.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Happy Bloom Tuesday - Paperwhites!

2009-12-15T08:02:00.000-08:00

Sharing the Paperwhites that we planted at Holiday Bulb Planting!
Wonder to see the outcoming of our labor.
Happy Bloom Tuesday

Holiday Green Tour - CURRAGH CHASE GARDEN CENTRE

2009-12-14T12:26:00.000-08:00

In search of some GREEN during the Christmas season? Then you have come to the right blog! During the weeks before Christmas I have been visiting local nurseries and Greenhouse Center to share what they are featuring during the Christmas season. During my trip to Ireland last week I visited a few Garden Centers to in search of what the Irish Gardener is doing for the Holidays.

Just outside of Limerick : CURRAGH CHASE GARDEN CENTRE

A collage featuring a winter garden center much like what you would find in my neck of the woods. The Irish in Limerick are in their winter season and most garden centers are working on preparing for the next planting season. I had the chance to talk to one of the owners of the CURRAGH CHASE GARDEN CENTRE. When we arrived they were working on some creative Holiday wreaths.

I did find a great selection of containers and shrubs at this location despite the lack of demand this time of year.

I even found a Hypericum that was blooming out in the landscape center. The Irish seem to be having some crazy weather this time of year like we are back home. Luckily this center was not effected by the flooding that hit Europe a few weeks prior to our visit.

As I look at the images of flowers that were blooming and being featured for the Christmas season I realized that I didn't see any Poinsettia's while in Ireland. Much of the flowers blooming are what we use in spring planting.

Containers filled with what is in season for the Irish this time of year. Check out the hanging basket in the bottom right of the collage above; Just like mine at home only with flowers we would use in the spring in my area.

We have more then the weather in common.... I loved visiting with the cute little bunnies they had on location.

Castles Everywhere..... Including mini castle designs used in home gardens. I took some video of this peaceful landscape feature at CURRAGH CHASE GARDEN CENTRE.

I hope you enjoyed what I have brought back to share with you from my trip to Ireland. If you enjoy looking at Garden Centers and what they have to offer during the Holiday season please check out my other Holiday Green Tour Entries at the link to the left.

The Milk Market in Limerick Ireland

2009-12-14T11:13:00.000-08:00

One of the highlights of my trip to Ireland last week was a visit with new friends to the Milk Market located in the city of Limerick. The Limerick Market Trustees have been operating since 1852. Apart from the Milk Market, which will be undergoing a major remodel until 2010. , the market on Bedford Row, off O’Connell Street, every Sunday afternoon.

Local venders line the street selling their fresh products to the locals.

What a treat it was to witness first hand how to locals shop and what they grow. It is hard to pick what my favorite booth was at the market. Can you smell all the fresh flowers and breads?

I wish I could have bought one of everything to take home with me! Look at those brownies in the image in the bottom right. YUMMO!!!! Ireland rain was falling while we visited the market but it didn't put a damper on our excitement to see all these wonderful treats!

Carrots........ right from the garden!

Italian traders selling fresh cut lavender to olives,dips, breads, oils.... oh my!

A favorite image from the Milk Market in Limerick, Ireland (above). These wrapped treats were filled with homemade chocolates from a local trader. I was sure to pick up a few of these treats to take home with me.

Hard to believe from all these images I just traveled 4,000 miles with no sleep!
I hope you enjoyed my trip to the market in Limerick. Be sure to check out their web page with information about the history of the market at THE MILK MARKET.

Garden World Report - Holiday Tour

2009-12-10T10:15:00.000-08:00

Be sure to click on over to the GARDEN WORLD REPORT this week with Shirley Bovshow to see her Holiday Garden Tour. I am a featured guest on her show this week!

Honored to be a part of the Garden World Report!

Watch live streaming video from gardenworldreport at livestream.com

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Walk About Limerick

2009-12-10T09:32:00.000-08:00

This morning I took a walk up into the city to find a Laundry Service. It was easier to pack only for a few days had take the chance that we would find a business that would do dry cleaning. The wonderful Host at our Hotel we are visiting this week referred me to this delightful business just past the shoppes. As I wait for my laundry to be done I had some time to kill so I ventured about the streets of Limerick. To the left is stunning door on my way to the shoppes. I can't get enough of the brilliant color the Irish use on most entry ways.

Across the road from the cleaners was a French store called 'The Country Basket'. I had to take some photos to share the wonderful front displays.

I must have wondered about this store for most of my waiting time because I just couldn't get enough of the wonderful French wines, cheese, fruit and Christmas Treasures. The collage above are a few of my favorite things I came across. I did pick up some of those wonderful French homemade chocolates. I KNOW, I KNOW.... I am in Ireland right?! YES , the store keeper was a wonderful Irish who was of wonderful help.

These are what caught my eye first .. mini carrots. The smell of their freshness was wonderful!

The streets are alive with Christmas Cheer. You can find Christmas in just about every shoppe in Limerick.

My clothing were prepared just in time. Even after a wonderful talk with the laundry owner I made it back to our room before the late afternoon rain arrived. Now to enjoy this wonderful Irish Garden Magazine I picked up along my walk today. I can't seem to put it down and am looking forward to trying some of the Irish recipes and wreath making ideas when I return home. I hope you enjoyed my walk with me today!

Irish Blooms at St. Mary's

2009-12-08T09:32:00.000-08:00

Today for Bloom Tuesday I am in Limerick, Ireland. One of the things I'm loving about the sights in this green country is the splash of bright color on a very cadaverous canvas. This morning we had some free time to go in search of the city.I decided to head out toward this magnificent tower I can see from my room window.

At the time I did not know we were visiting one of the oldest and most historical buildings in Limerick. This Cathedral was founded in 1168 on the site of a palace donated by Donal Mor O'Brien King of Munster. You can read more about the history of this majestic Cathedral at : http://www.cathedral.limerick.anglican.org/

The view from the sidewalk way does not look inviting to this American Tourist but curiosity kept me a snapping away with my camera.

As I near closer to the Cathedral entrance that was once a place were soldiers sharpened their swords I began to notice the many shades of green Ireland is famous for.

If the stones of the pathway to the Catherdral porch could talk! Wouldn't it be a treat to hear of all the Kings and Princess' who had walked on them many years ago.

Bloom Tuesday

Along the stone wall tucked in between all that lushes green were some fuchsia blooming. I am not sure what the purple flower is. I did pick up a Irish Wild Flower book today but the only think close to the bloom discription would be Wild Thyme . I also wanted to share an image of the green that grows along rock walk ways and walls which is pictured in the bottom left of the upper collage. Although I did not see many blooms today it was surely the greenest!

Lights of Limerick, Ireland

2009-12-05T18:02:00.000-08:00

Away from my neck of the woods for a visit to a very GREEN place. Did you know you can see Ireland GREEN from the space station so I was told today by a new friend over 'across the pond'?!
Wonderful People, VERY GREEN and so very much to share with you all as time allows.

Soaking up the Sun

2009-11-29T20:18:00.000-08:00

Red Cherry - Knautia

Can you believe this Red Cherry - Knautia is blooming? I thought it was only a spring bloomer and enjoyed HOT conditions. After all it is a ROCK garden favorite. The greenhouse it is growing in averages a night temperature of 50* and days sometimes only reaching 65*. On this day in late November the temperature was well over 100* and sunny most of the day.

Today I spent some time potting some new plants in the greenhouse. Pictured above is the new Lime Shrub I received from Black Diamond Nursery located in Perrysburg, Ohio.

You all know me.... a blog entry wouldn't be complete without sharing one of my furry friends!

This little chestnut Netherland Dwarf was more interested in the Fuji FinePix digital camera I was using rather then the greens all around her.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-27T08:29:00.000-08:00

A few of my favorite images taken on Thanksgiving.....

For this Thanksgiving menu I was able to harvest my own rosemary, thyme, basil and oregeno from the greenhouse. I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving celebration with your friends and family.

Happy Thanksgiving from my garden to yours - Bren

Winter Rose Bordine Style

2009-11-24T17:56:00.000-08:00

Winter Rose Pink

Yesterday I took the Holiday Green Tour to the great state of Michigan. I have always been a fan of the Michigan growers usually finding myself in my old stomping grounds of Rochester Hills which is a suburb of Detroit. During my day long jaunt I collected over 1,000 photos.I am THANKFUL once again for the free Google art program Picasa' with easy photo organizing capabilities that I use.

Winter Rose Red

I couldn't wait till my collection was completely edited so I am posting these photos of one of the new Poinsettias grown at Bordines Nursery in Michigan. These images were taken at the Rochester Hills location.

I am going to keep this short so I can get back to editing and bring you the rest of the images from my trip.

ENJOY - and be sure to check Bordine Nursery out on the web.

Sunday Sunshine from Zone 5

2009-11-22T09:36:00.000-08:00

Can you imagine the 'Ahhhh' when I entered the greenhouse last night to find this bloom! I had to wait till sunrise to share it with you and I hope you enjoy it! I hope it screams 'Happy Sunday' to all who stumble apon my blog this day.

It maybe only 45* this sunny morning in November but the vents are opening and we are enjoying close to 90* in the greenhouse. Can you see the water on the tropical Hibiscus? I mist all the green each morning. Not sure if it really does anything for them but they seem to be enjoying it.

Imagination Verbena on Sunday Morning

Landmark Citrus Lantana Bloom

If you like reading about the greenhouse experience from my neck of the woods you might want to click on the BRENS'GREENHOUSE icon to the left to view more! Let us know if this inspires you to grow green - be kind and leave a comment!

A Boo (some new) and Bloom Tuesday

2009-11-17T18:37:00.000-08:00

This is Tuesday so lets share some blooms!

I am super excited to see this Dallas Red Lantana blooming after I chopped this 36" plant down to about 4" to move from the landscaping into a container for the winter. She doesn't seem to mind the change of scenery.

I had a new friend join me in the Greenhouse today as I did some flower maintenance. I'm sure he only wanted to get out of the wind and find a nice warm place to take a nap. Quickly, he found a nice dry spot in the corner of the greenhouse to rest his chin. ( photo collage above).How could you resist Boo Kitty's' big blue eyes? See him snuggled in the corner in the bottom left photo.

New Things to Grow in the Greenhouse

The collage above is a collection of some of the new things I have added to the 10'x12' greenhouse I am using this winter. Over the weekend I came across this Rose Tree at Bench's (40% off!). Everyone needs a tree in their greenhouse right? It will be a wonderful show when this Lavaglut (red rose) blooms. I also added some french ivy around the bottom of the tree container. The containers are starting to take shape considering all they have been through. Most of the larger containers are annuals I dug up from my landscaping and moved to smaller pots with hopes of prolonging their life. I have already been enjoying the rosemary and basil containers that usually would be gone by this time of year. So far - so good!

Optical Grass

This little guy took his time ' blooming' after being divided and moved inside. He is now in a 4" terra cotta pot. My goal is to keep most of these bloomers to enjoy through the winter. As spring arrives I will transplant into larger containers and stop the cutting back so they can grow bigger before putting them outside.

Holding on Outside

My Garden has had a few frost and not much rain and these late summer favorites are still hanging on. Look close on that mum in the bottom left corner - can you see the little bee doing his thing! Verbena in the landscaping and the pansy container looking as good as the day I planted it. The ledwort is even sharing a small bright blue bloom on this Mid-November day.

I hope sharing my garden with you brightened your Bloom Tuesday!

Holiday Green Tour 2009

2009-11-16T17:39:00.000-08:00

Klotz Flowers in Bowling Green, Ohio

Black Diamond Nursery in Perrysburg, Ohio

Bordine Nursery in Rochester Hills, Michigan

Detroit Garden Works in Pontiac Michigan

Goldner Walsh Garden & Home

Hoen's Greenhouse in Holland, Ohio

Special feature : Garden Centers in Irleand

CURRAGH CHASE GARDEN CENTRE in Limerick Ireland

I was featured on the Garden World Report with Shirley Bovshow : CHECK IT OUT!

Watch live streaming video from gardenworldreport at livestream.com

Check back as we add to this list during the Christmas Season!

Spring in an Autumn Greenhouse

2009-11-12T20:54:00.000-08:00

Two postings in one day..... this is a first with my busy fall schedule. Having the greenhouse to 'play in' as the winter months approach us in zone 5 is really keeping my spirits up. Today was an eventful day spent enjoying the last days of color on the few trees that are not naked in the BGgarden and spring thoughts in the greenhouse. Doesn't my little friend Sushi (Netherland Dwarf) in my planting station look like something you would find during the Spring months?

Or maybe the terra cotta planters filled with salad mix? Doesn't that remind you of spring? These are super easy to grow and I have a few pots that should be harvest before the end of the month already.

Spring in this new little seedling? Can you name that little fellow?

Collage of favorite planters in the Greenhouse

One thing is for sure - we are enjoying the warm weather in the greenhouse. I think my little Christmas tree has grown a foot since I put him in the greenhouse a few weeks ago.

I wonder what tomorrow will bring...........

The Last of the Fall Color in my Zone 5

2009-11-12T14:18:00.000-08:00

I swear with in minutes of our school district calling a cancellation due to fog the SUN was out brighter then it has been in weeks. Isn't that how it works? We took advantage of the wonderful weather and enjoyed the morning out for a walk in the woods. Not too many bright colors to be found as the trees are mostly naked this time of year. I think I have more burs on me then our Aussie Olivia after I climbed into an over grown pricker patch to get some photos of a few red berries that were still hanging in there.

My son thinks he is going to be a 'millionaire' after filling the garden cart full of Osage oranges he harvested from the woods. I guess these fall bloomers can be found on ebay for up to $4 a piece?! They are fun to display next to pumpkins and gourds and are said to keep spiders away.

Collection of color from the Ornamental Pear (Pyrus calleryana 'Chanticleer')

The Ornamental Pear trees has been a favorite of mine for many years. I first fell in love with them in our little city garden when we lived in town. These pretty spring flowering trees lined the streets of that cute little 'Norman Rockwell' town we lived in. This dwarf tree stand more upright then the Bradford Pear and who can resist the color display she is putting on this second week in November.

This could be my favorite photo in November with the blue peeking through the wide range of leaf color on that pear tree. (image to the left).

Ornamental Pear on fire in November.

I will return later in the day with some photos from the Greenhouse that you won't want to miss - C'ya then!

Maybe the Last .........

2009-11-03T13:56:00.000-08:00

HOLDING ON......

Yes the Knock Out Rose has seen better days but I must share this image of her on this early November day. I think she is just as interesting in her winter bloom.
Happy BLOOM Tuesday

Greenhouse Blooms

Enjoy my 'snow bird' flowers that have taken refuge from our zone 5 winter in my greenhouse. (collage above).

November Yarrow

Thankful to be able to share a bloom that is still bringing Happy Bloom Tuesday from our BGgarden.

I 'm on Garden World Report!

2009-11-02T19:39:00.000-08:00

This week I am featured on Garden World Report! I shared what I love most about being connected with the Garden World online. Join Shirley Bovshow as she shares some wonderful garden multiplying tips and much more. I guarantee you will become a fan and most of all be INSPIRED!

Holiday Bulb Planting

2009-11-02T11:59:00.000-08:00

Today I posted a new Video Blog sharing some tips and ideas to REMIND you that NOW is the time to get those Holiday bulbs in containers to guarantee an early Winter bloom. IF you click on the link to my BGgarden on video image to the left of this text you can view that video. I have also included information below - LET'S GET BUSY!

It's That Time Of Year........
Yes now is the time to stock up on Spring Bulbs that you want to force for a winter bloom and also get those Holiday Bulbs in their blooming containers. Yesterday I spent some time in our Greenhouse working on Christmas Plantings. I prepared Paperwhites and a few Amaryllis.

If you are out shopping in just about any retail location you will find a section of Spring Bulbs. Now in my neck of the woods these items are being clearance already. I am not sure if it is because of the poor economy or just retailers are ready to move in the Christmas Trees. Either way I am taking adventage of those deep discounts finding some bulbs as low as 75% off retail price.

Purchase BULBS now while they are available. Store them in the refrigerator for 8 -10 weeks to force them in the winter months. (image to the right)

After storing them you can plant them indoors for an early winter bloom. You will love having some color and spring scent in your home on a gloomy winters day.

Planting Paperwhite and Armaryllis indoors can be fun and super easy. Today I planted 12 paperwhite bulbs in a favorite wicker basket. Remember to plant in loose soil only a few inches deep. Store in cool and dark location in your home. Once the bulb begins to put out some green leafs move to a sunny location in your room. Do not place in direct sunlight and be sure the bulbs do not dry out. For longer blooms place in a cool location each night but not letting the flower go below 50*.

You will have wonderful blooms in 10 - 12 weeks!

I hope I have inspired you to get out and get your bulbs ready today!

Anacardiaceae : Smoke Tree Fall Color

2009-11-01T07:59:00.000-08:00

On a cool Autumn afternoon Calico Betty and I went in search of warm color in the garden.
Calico Betty wonders where are all the leafs as she climbs the naked tree? It is amazing how in a 24 hour time span all the leafs have fallen from many of the trees in the garden.

The Smoke Tree is putting on a warm color show of it's own in the garden. They say to insure the most intense color display, select your tree when it turns color in autumn. Keep watering and fertilizing to a minimum, for best fall color. These photos are proof because this smoke tree is in a extreme dry location in our garden. (in collage above) Calico Betty enjoys a nice little rest under the Smoke Tree after finding the color she was in search of.

DO YOU FEEL CONNECTED to the garden world? Check out today show at GARDEN WORLD REPORT where BGgarden and numberous other Garden personalities will be sharing Garden Thoughts. Join Shirley Bovshow as she shares how to multiply your plants? Watch GardenWorldReport.com TONIGHT!~

What do you miss?

2009-10-29T13:43:00.000-07:00

I asked on my Fan Page at FACEBOOK : What do you Miss?

What do you miss most about this Summers Harvest?

Where do I begin...............

At this moment I am thinking about those wonderful heirloom Brandywine that had to be picked using two hands. I am so thankful someone took the time to teach me how to can process my summer veggies so I can enjoy them when the garden has been put the rest.

Today we are having Lasagna and you know I am using some of those Brandywine from my garden. I will try and share a photo with you all later.

Are you on Facebook? Follow me at the BGgarden by clicking on the link to the right.

Treasures and Blooms on Tuesday

2009-10-27T19:15:00.000-07:00

Today was what is normal classified as a typical Ohio Autumn day. As the trees become naked and the wet grounds take on their coat for the winter I went on the trails in search of some old treasures. I knew I had left some willow furniture out in a hide away play ground that was once where the children imagined their own world. Today the furniture sits as it did a few years back just waiting to be admired. Today is the day it will be discovered. As I uncovered one of the chairs Kink Kitty joins me on this treasure hunt.

Treasures uncovered on an Autumn day.

I have the perfect spot for this BGgarden chair. It is going to be the center attraction for a Video Blog I am working on. Stop back to see it's dubute!

Happy Bloom Tuesday

Today's bloom comes from the greenhouse. I am super excited to see that some of the lantana and citrinela plants I dug out of the ground and chopped 'way back' a few weeks ago has new growth on it.

The little blooms on a Bacopa Snowtop ( I am super excited!)

I hope to blog the GREENHOUSE PROJECT later this week so I can show you the house we added to the garden. Happy Bloom Tuesday Everyone!

Autumn Monday Stroll

2009-10-26T08:19:00.000-07:00

Autumn Stroll - Collage of my walk in the Monday Morning Garden.

Look at who joined me on my walk... all my Garden Friends.

I can feel the heat coming from those coals still alive in the Fall Fire!

Enjoy your Autumn Monday and I hope to inspire you to get out and take a stroll.

Seed Saving on Saturday

2009-10-24T22:35:00.000-07:00

This beautiful Sunflower has seen better days.........

The amazing seed pod of the Mexican Sunflower is photographed above. I think the dead blooms are almost as pretty as the true bloom in a photograph. This bloom will shine again because today I saved it's seeds for planting next spring .

Check out my Video Blog on Seed Saving at BGgarden Video .

I hope this will inspire you to get out and cut some seeds to save for next season!

Happy Cutting!

Fall Fire

2009-10-20T12:06:00.000-07:00

Calico Autumn

Calico Betty would agree that Autumn is her favorite time of the year! All thought she may not chase the leaves as she use to she is enjoying the mice hunt in the field at dusk.

Feel the heat from the Dwarf Spirea Bushes as they begin to warm up with Fall.

Happy Bloom Tuesday ..... whats on fire in your garden.

Greenhouse Road Trip - Finding Autumn

2009-10-14T22:21:00.000-07:00

It was another rainy day in the garden as we adventured out to a road trip in search of some warmth in Autumn. I do believe we found it as we arrived at a local family greenhouse as we were welcome by a colorful display of mums and pumpkins. Can you smell the fresh chrysanthemums in the autumn rain?

I was not heading out on this drizzle day to 'find' Autumn but some how it just happen. My goals was to find a few pumpkins and mums to use in an arrangement. Luckily, I had my Fuji camera tucked away in the car. The photo on the right is an effect you get from taking a camera from 40* to 70* conditions. This foggy view is the poinsettias that are growing at Bostdorff Greenhouse.

I have truly found Autumn on this Greenhouse Road Trip.

Back outside to make sure I didn't miss anything......... and it just so happens I did. However, I brought this middle snap shot in the collage above home in a pot to add to my Autumn Garden.

WOW.... I couldn't get enough of these wonderful warm succulents. After a couple dozen photos were taken of my new found 'love' I asked the employees what this collection was. Excited to find that a new live roof is going in at a local Hospital. Now I need to find out WHERE and HOW I can get some photos of that project. I hope to have more photos of these to share with you soon.

I just can't get enough of those succulents!

Have you found your Autumn?

Finding Color in Darkness

2009-10-13T07:36:00.000-07:00

If you really look even on a rainy, gloomy fall day you can find color that will bring peace and hope.

Happy Bloom Tuesday

Autumn Splendor

2009-10-09T04:51:00.000-07:00

As the Autumn color show begins ........

One can't help but wonder what will be the 'winning' photo of the season. So many rich colors to choose from in the collection of photos this time of year. I wish I could post them all.

I love how the red leaves dance above the bird bath garden as the Willow watches in the background.

It took the day of Autumn for me to reconized the true meaning of the 'Endless Summer' Hydrangea. This garden treasure just keeps on giving brilliant colored blooms.

It just won't be our blog if we didn't share a kitten or two!

This Autumn Wish Image above goes to my friends over at Fertilize Friday. It is always a pleasure to view others splendid blooms at the end of the week so please stop over and see what they have shared. Until next entry please get out and enjoy the Autumn Splendor!

Happy Bloom Tuesday

2009-10-06T19:42:00.000-07:00

The rain and cooler tempatures arrive by late evening. I am going to hang onto Mondays pickings and add them to my Bloom Tuesday entry. Happy Bloom Tuesday Everyone!

Gifts from my Fall Harvest

2009-10-05T19:40:00.000-07:00

Today the high only reached the low 60's in our neck of the woods. One of the last days to pull veggies from the garden. It is a sad time but a also a day to be proud. I am full of amazement that I planted most of these plants that filled the 60'x80' veggie garden all from seed. I DID IT! This is truly a day to remember. Starting over 90% of the produce I grew this year not only helped my self esteme it also made me more aware of the health aspects of growing your own food.

At sunset a basket full of peppers,tomatillos', and blooms are cherished.

Shawna Coronado of 'The Casual Gardner' asked : "Whatcha pulling out of your fall garden" so I took the challenge and shared how creating my garden made a difference in my life.

Welcome October

2009-10-05T06:13:00.000-07:00

Welcome October..... we are ready for you in the BGgarden!

My kitty Jack seems to be a little confused about the crisp air and the frost on the ground this morning.

October has hit a few of the tops of my annuals. Most of these hit by frost I can save by doing some propagating. For example: I did take the bottom leafs of this scented geranium and started them in a flat that will go into my greenhouse upon completion.

As I working on saving the plants for next season my hubby works on adding the greenhouse on to the newly built shed that houses my daughters Rabbitry for now. Someday the shed will be pots but for now I am enjoy sharing. I feel like the little squirrel preparing for the long winter.

How could you not enjoy having these sweet little creatures pictured above enjoying the greenhouse with you. Click on the link if you would like to see more of the Rabbitry.

http://countrysiderabbitry.blogspot.com/

Welcome October.... we are so ready for your gifts of brilliant color!

Mums Magic on Fertilze Friday

2009-10-02T19:05:00.000-07:00

Spotlight - truly a favorite this time of year!

For the past four years I have been able to transplant new starts of this variety in various locations of the garden. The bright yellow started blooming early July.

This mum was just planted this year and seems to be have been touched by the frost a few nights ago.

This is for sure my favorite picture for the day.

Enjoy the weekend and please stop back and share what you are are planting this season.

Please check out some of my other friends on Blogger who are participating in Fertilize Friday headed up by Dear Tootsie. You won't want to miss her information about preparing the GREENHOUSE for the winter.

Whisker Wednesday

2009-09-30T13:26:00.000-07:00

Whisker Wednesday in BGgarden

Normally I would post something without words for a Wordless Wednesday entry but today it was totally a whisker day. The weather has not been pleasant the last few days keeping me indoors to work. Could it have been the kitties were super happy to see me?A few of my favorite feline were following me around the garden photo shoot when they would normally be napping.

Spotlight Mum

Loving the color display this chrysanthemum has been showing for the past week. This perennial was added to the garden last year surviving our zone 5 winter. I did do a little cut back on this plant in early June to keep this beauty from blooming early.

This is for sure the winning WHISKER Shot of the day. It is fun to capture the friends of the garden as they interact with each other. Happy Harvest Friends - Enjoy the Fall!

Happy Bloom Tuesday

2009-09-29T20:58:00.001-07:00

It was another cool and very breezy day in my neck of the woods so it was easy to find some chores to keep busy indoors. Just before sunset I realized that I forgot to snap some photos for Bloom Tuesday. Oops.... sorry Oppie Kitty. The sudden opening of the front door startled him. I hate to think of how disappointed he will be when his favorite rocker gets put in the barn for the winter someday soon.

PINK.... seems to be the color of the season.

This mum is one of the new ones I picked up and potted on the front porch. I love the way the Rooster Grass is finding it's into the picture.

Treasures of the season in a Bloom Tuesday Collage.

Thank you for stopping by my blog today Friends - Bren

Lime, Pink and loads of FALL!

2009-09-28T16:59:00.000-07:00

It is starting to look and feel like Autumn in my neck of the woods on this day in September. The local farmers are selling pumpkins and mums and I am having fun supporting them! Today I picked up these treasures featured in the photo above to use on my front porch celebrating the upcoming Fall season.

Many of my favorite perennials and trees are featuring PINK this time of year. The Smoke Tree and the Peony bush just to name a few of these show stoppers.

I noticed a few weeks ago as the Limelight Hydrangea was just kicking with the Fall Blooms how it was sporting more pink then lime. The photo on the left was taken today.

A single Limelight bloom is surrounded by what resemble the blooms on the Pinky Winky Shrub. Not sure what caused this reaction but I am loving it!

Enjoy the Fall Color!

FRIDAY Fall Planting Thoughts

2009-09-25T08:19:00.000-07:00

A garden cart full of fall plantings wait for me in the stone driveway so I need to do a quick post to share so I don't fall to far behind in the blog world.

Greenhouse Report

Top photo on the right of the collage above shows the foundation of the greenhouse being tamped before construction. The shed is complete and the greenhouse to be attached soon. I felt it was important to attach the greenhouse to a heated structure that you would walk through to enter. I am hoping to use this greenhouse year round so we will see if this will be a beneficial decisions. Recycled windows and entry door were used from our home remodel in the shed. Next GREENHOUSE REPORT will have photos of the structure.

There are many new mums being planted and old ones that were cut back in early summer that are putting on a fabulous display of Fall in the garden this morning. Grace is enjoying some newly planted Leadwort. I love the deep blue blooms on that low growing perennial.

Tiarella and Red Rooster - ornamental grass

I think they look wonderful together but not a likely pairing due to their sun preference. These are a few of the new perennials I have adding to the garden this fall.

I have had this water Dropwort in a terra cotta pot for the summer and have decided to plant it in the garden. We will see if it puts on a wonderful show in the ground like it did in the pot!

The Rose of Sharon has been blooming since mid-July. I am loving the cooler weather blooms this hardy shrub is hosting.

It is a wonderful time of year and I hope you are able to get out in the dirt and enjoy this time as well. See you next week with some more thoughts and photos from Fall.

Happy Friday!

Saving some Seeds Sunday

2009-09-20T21:00:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist adding Sunday to my title to this blog. This lazy Sunday afternoon I decided to cut a few sunflowers and zinnia's to store for next years seed collection. I have been collecting and reusing sunflower and perennial favorites for a few years now. It is super easy to do and only takes up a little space in a storage area. You can't loose out on this seed saving trick if you just do a few short steps:

1. you will have better success if you cut flowers that have began to dry out in the garden. I cut the stems to be roughly the same length and pick off the leaves. 2. Place the cut flowers in a brown paper bag. 3. Label the bag because once they dry they will be hard to tell a part. 4. Tie the stems together and the bag closed to hang. 5. Place in a dry storage area. When you open the bag in a few weeks you will find the seeds have fallen to the bottom of the bag. You can do this right away or wait till it is time to plant next spring.

The collage above features today's picks loaded in the back of my garden cart.

Oppie Kitty eagerly waits for me in the drivers seat of the golf cart as I take a few photos of todays' picks loaded in the back dump bed. The grapes are tasting yummy this time of year so I was sure to pick a bunch for dessert tonight. I am loving the way the macro lens captures these late summer harvest goodies.

It was a lazy Sunday - Thanks for stopping by!

Notes on Coppertina Ninebark

2009-09-17T09:57:00.000-07:00

I have been waiting for my Coppertina

(Physocarpus opulifolious)

to put on it's fall glow but no such luck as of mid September.

The drought tolerable Coppertina has to be one of my all time favorite shrubs to have growing in our landscaping. I was given this 'shrub' in a little 2" pot about 3 years ago at a Plant Quest Tour in Michigan. Of course I stuck it in the ground in a random location thinking it wouldn't survive being so small and lack of water for week. Little did I know it would become one of my prized eye catchers in our garden.

Early summer the shrub is filled with pink blooms that turn to a deep red during it's short bloom time. In the collage to the left I show it paired with sedum ground cover in one of my dry rock beds.

The photo on the right was taken just after I trimmed the Coppertina shortly after the bloom time. I want to keep it shaped in this landscape area but it could easily be let go for low maintenance. I do believe the this bronze foilage is truly a warm welcome to our front landscaping. What better way to say ' WELCOME' to any home.

Silly little Seymore sitting out on a rock near the pond. I don't think he knew I could see him watching me this morning as I water all the newly planted Fall Chrysanthemums. I will have to share those with you on another day.

Wordless on Wednesday

2009-09-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

Flames of Fall

Tuesday Fall Bulb Blooming

2009-09-15T15:18:00.000-07:00

Colchicum

This fall bulb bloomer puts on a fast show. I don't know if it is the heat of the day or the cooler nights that prevents this pretty delicate bloomer from sticking around till October. This image is my featured TUESDAY BLOOM for the week.

Dogwood brings on the Fall Color

A few of my favorite foliage this week in the collage above.

To sum up today nothing says it better then this photo of my dear Calico Betty. I snapped this shot as she napped on my bedroom deck this afternoon during the warmest point of the day. Seems the 80* sunny afternoon didn't bother sweet Betty as much as me crawling on my belly to get this shot of her with my macro lens.

Good Day Friends!

Where to find some quiet time.......

2009-09-11T11:01:00.000-07:00

Taking a short break to walk away from the stewing tomatoes I have going in the kitchen to reflect on how blessed we truly have been this season. Loving the soft impatience I stuck in this shade container that was recycled from a collection I used at Fair a few weeks ago. It is so very peaceful in the shade garden this time of year.

Tomatoes have gotten to me.... What is this flower because I can't remember for the life of me! Enjoying the last of this mystery flowers' clusters in the shade garden this day in September.

The cart loads are getting smaller but there is still plenty of work to do. I can honestly say I am looking forward to doing some actually garden work such as weeding and mowing. Tired of the picking and the preparing at this time of harvest season.

Happy Harvest Friends and enjoy the weekend.

Tomatillo Garden Fresh

2009-09-10T20:09:00.000-07:00

Tomate Verde

One of my favorite Vegetables to grow in my Midwest garden is the Tomatillo. I was first introduced to the tomate verde while traveling out West a few years back. You don't find many of these plants in local greenhouses in my neck of the woods so I was pleased to find tomatillo seeds early spring of this year so I could grow my own in our greenhouse. In the collage above you can see that this green tomato grows in a husk. I grew over a dozen plants clustered much like the square foot gardening method of growing. This helped the flimsy stalk of the plant support itself on one another. When the husk is tight because the tomatillo has grow into it and starting to turn dry it is time to harvest.

Today I am using a favorite recipe of mine with a new twist to make Salsa Verde - Tomatillo Salsa. The recipe changes each time I make it but you can guarantee it is always a party pleaser! One thing that never changes in the recipe is the GARDEN FRESH added to each recipe.

Tomatillo Salsa Verde - Garden Fresh

10-15 tomatillo - washed and husked.

2 large red peppers (chipolata style)

4 large serrano chili

1 onion, chopped

3 clove of garlic, chopped

1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped

salt

cumin

Directions

1. Char the skin of the chili and hot peppers either in a flame or in a cast iron skillet.

2. Under a broiler or on a grill, roast dehusked, washed, and halved tomatillos until they are slightly caramelized.

3. Add tomatillos, red pepper, chilies, onion, and garlic to a food processor.

4. throw in the seasons to taste.

5. When hot prepare as you would for canning or enjoy fresh!

Images from my kitchen as I char the peppers and caramelize tomatillo to be added to the food processor. I am loving the color of the peppers and green tomato mix. Can't wait to dip a chip into this festive appetizer.

Saving the Salsa Verde for another day by canning a few batches.

What better way to end a Tomatillo Garden Fresh blog entry then to share some 'TEX MEX' colorful blooms.

The Moss Rose (Portulaca) is a Summer Favorite

This year I stuck the little seed plug directly into the rocks of a hot walk way after all danger of frost had past. I don't think I have ever had a plant grow so big like it did this year. This colorful bloom loves the well drained hot area of any landscaping. I also got creative and stuck a starter plant in a cactus container on the deck (How cool is that!!!).

Thanks for stopping by my blog. I hope you try out the recipe and plant some rose moss in your garden next season.

Enjoying the signs of upcoming Fall

2009-09-10T06:53:00.000-07:00

As I load up the wheel barrel with more tomatoes to stew, I notice the wonderful color starting to bloom. During my break I headed out to the garden with my Nikon in hand to snap a few shots of the Fall preview.

Out of the dozen photos I took I am going to share with you my favorites.

I was surprised to find some acorns on the ground. Where did all the squirrels go.

Maybe Boo knows...................

A nest that has fallen from a near by walnut tree.

Back to the Garden where the sunflowers start to go to seed.

Thanks for stopping by today - and enjoy the last days of Harvesting!

Wordless on Wednesday (part 2)

2009-09-09T10:57:00.000-07:00

Note : I kept my first entry because of all the wonderful comments I received this morning.. Gardeners are truly the kindest people and I want to thank you all for being a wonderful part of this blog.

This was the first time I have ever encountered a problem with Blogger. I am loving their new programing for uploading images onto their Blog Network. I also wanted to note that I edit my photos using their Picasa program that you can download for free at www.picasa.com

Wordless on Wednesday (part 1)

2009-09-09T08:03:00.000-07:00

I can't get my photos to load.... anyone else having this problem this morning on Blogger.
Happy Wordless (almost) Wednesday!

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY ENTRY

(sorry - redirecting to my Picasa account due to uploading errors).

Ready for Fall

2009-09-08T20:42:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite display of colors comes from the Grape Vines we planted years ago.

I had to snap a photo to share with my dear friend Kylee (Our Little Acre) of my FULL trunk after an afternoon trip out to Bench's Greenhouse. I couldn't help but remember the fun we had a few months back filling her van with our 40% off finds. This trip was in search of some fall fillers for my garden. I returned home with Mums ( 6 for $22), 2 large P.W. Red Riding Hood Grasses, a few containers to plant, sweet corn, peaches and plums.

I bought extra SWEET CORN so I could prepare it for freezing to serve at Thanksgiving. Nothing taste better then some corn sliced right off the cob during the Holidays. After blanching the cob for a few minutes just slice off of the cob and freeze.

How are you preparing for Fall?

Friday Fall Finds

2009-09-05T09:10:00.000-07:00

With every perfect blue sky day we have this time of year I can't help but think this could be the last before Old Man Winter returns. It may seem early to mention the FOUR LETTER word (S*N*O*W) but the weather pattern in my neck of the woods seems to 'go down hill ' right after the last days of October. I do love the fall and the wonderful color it provides. I'm hoping to add some new perennials and garden accents only to magnify this wonderful season.

Today we headed out with GPS in my little SUV and some Proven Winner retailer notes in hand. On the way to our destination I saw a HUGE billboard for a Greenhouse Retailer I have been curious to visit since I first saw a commercial in early spring but was too busy planting in my own greenhouse to visit. FIRST DETOUR of the day was at Jacobs Garden just over the border in Michigan.

This is a MUST SEE for every Home&Garden owner looking for the latest garden designs. Even in the transition stage as most of the retailers are bringing in the FALL FINDS this greenhouse is amazing. The greenhouses were empty in preparation of all the CHRISTMAS goodies that could be seen in the photo above, I can't wait to return to see what they have to offer for the Holiday Season. BUT the trip was not a disappointment as we enjoyed the many ceramic garden features and landscaping designs set up in the outside growing area.

Plenty of wonderful GARDEN accents in there large location. Jacobs Garden won my vote for 'hottest' garden spot in our area with the coffee bar next to the Vera Bradly collection and the friendly staff!

VERY IMPORTANT WEB NOTE:

One things I have learned in the last five years of gardening is that if a GREENHOUSE does not provide TODAYS garden market with a current webpage it may not be worth your time to visit. During my Friday Finds Adventure I seem to have forgotten to 'step out of the box' when I added a 'greenhouse retailer' to my list on the GPS. Thank Goodness it was a picture perfect day and it was early in our journey. The 'P.W. retailer' was located on a Michigan dirt road with a not so friendly driveway. I do think I MAY HAVE seen a 'greenhouse' in the back 40 somewhere but I dare not venture down someone's driveway who does not have a sign.

Thank goodness we were in the Historical Chelsea, Michigan and had plans for lunch at THE COMMON GRILL.

After being seated at a cozy table in the middle of this fabulous bistro I totally forgot about the back road mishaps. I would recommend everything on the menu at The Common Grill. I enjoy this restaurant so well because it provides the atmosphere found in my beloved Napa Valley, California snuggled in the Great Lake State. Michiganders have to be some of the nicest people in the Midwest! Check out their menu with daily specials at their spectacular webpage : THE COMMON GRI LL. Today I enjoyed their Honey Pecan Chicken Salad With Fresh Fruit and a Warm Muffin. You have to check out Chef Craigs Cookbook filled with some of the popular dishes made daily at this location.

Short on time we started our journey back home. I couldn't help but think we were missing something as we drove back down Highway 94. I decided to plug in one final address from my P.W. list. Much to my surprise there was a location just 6 miles from where we were at the time. Off it was to The English Garden. I was getting a little worried when we exited in a busy section of Ann Arbor, Michigan. When the GPS alerted us to 'turn left' into an older parking lot where we could only see an older K-Mart Department Store. Luckily, they had a big sign in the driveway. As we followed the turn back to the location I was happy to see a HUGE Proven WINNER FALL MAGIC SIGN!!!!!!

Here are a few photos from my stroll through the English Garden Retail Shop. I had to take a photo of their friendly little kitten who sat so patiently at the greenhouse door. The prices were extremely reasonable but at this point of the day I would have paid ANYTHING for a few selections from the Fall Magic Collection.

English Garden Collage

Bren's Picks for this Friday Fall Finds

ornamental millet pennisetum glaucum purple , Diamond Frost, Leadwort, Dolce * Cream Brulee.

Thank you for stopping by my blog. I hope some of you share your Fall Finds on your blogs as well. Leave me a comment so I can link back to you from my blog today.

Happy Fall Planting Friends and have a fun filled Labor Day weekend!

In Search of Fall

2009-09-05T07:15:00.000-07:00

Between the harvesting of the tomatoes and plenty of late summer dead heading I was able to find a few hours to venture out of the garden in search of some new fall planting. I do believe that most people who enjoy their Home & Gardens forget that FALL is one of the most beneficial times to plant perennials. My theory is backed up by the absence of availability of fall planting in most greenhouse locations. The fall themed plants are available through companies like Proven Winners but the majority of retailers in our area seem to have missed that memo on the trend of fall planting. Once again large 'Home and Garden 'retailers are winning the fall market with their large selection of traditional fall mums and and other perennials.

One location to find mums was out at the Country Compound in Swanton, Ohio. Which just so happens to be owned by my niece who just started a Greenhouse business last spring. All thought she doesn't care the P.W. Fall collection she has plenty of PERENNIALS that are ready to be planted this season and a WIDE SELECTION OF MUMS.

Jens' Greenhouse has some wonderful summer finds just ready to liven up your garden. I took home a few mums to start out my fall planting purchase frenzy! You know this is only the beginning for me and my fall garden buys.

From September 4 - 12 you will find Jen and her COUNTRY COMPOUND goodies across from the Fulton County Fair. This is one of Ohio's largest county fairs. Be sure to stop by her stand and see what she has to share with you this fall.

Signing off for this Thursday because I am taking my search back on the road again tomorrow. I hope you come back and see what FALL I find.

Happy Gardening!

30 Second Wednesday

2009-09-02T10:36:00.001-07:00

It is amazing what you can 'snap' to share in 30 seconds out in a garden.

Cleome, Barberry Bush, Dark Potato Vine, Variegated Geranium, Dark Heuchera, and some bumble bee lovin' Agastache all in 30 seconds.

Happy Wednesday and Thank you for stopping by my Garden.

Happy SEPTEMBER Bloom Tuesday!

2009-09-01T14:32:00.001-07:00

On the first day of September I am share my wagon full of Summer Harvest. I have well over 3 bushels of tomatoes including Brandywine, Italian Orange, Roma, Russian Plum, Grape, Spring Vine, Sun Gold, Juliet just to name a few. Pulling my wagon around the Veggie garden these days since there has been less work I want to burn more calories. Especially after having lunch with a dear friend of mine. It was a wonderful Bloom Tuesday on this first day in September.

And I have this vase of fresh cut blooms to prove it!
Happy Bloom Tuesday Everyone.

A Small Note......

2009-08-31T10:49:00.000-07:00

about the Garden break I just took during some major tomato harvesting time here in my veggie garden. It was well worth the time away and I have photos to prove it.

What a refreshing break from all the Canadian Geese I usually have the opportunity to take photos of when I saw these gorgeous Swans in a lily filled lake in Indiana. I have never seen so many lilies in a lake.

Keeping this entry short because I have to get back to work. The weeds are catching up with me even though FALL is starting to show in my neck of the woods.

Happy Monday Friends!

This is what VEGGIE GARDENING is about!

2009-08-23T19:25:00.000-07:00

Today was the Day I have been waiting for since early spring when I started a bunch of heirloom seeds in my 'make shift greenhouse'.

Russian Plums, Roma, Brandywine and a basket full of peppers is what was stewing in my kitchen to create a few jars of Italian Stews to be open on a cold winters day. TODAY is what VEGGIE GARDENING is all about for me. The smell of fresh picked basil and oregano mixed with onions from the garden. Can you smell it now?

The image above are quick shots taken with my Fuji Finepix of the Russian plums, a few of the finished pasta sauces and a bowl full of pasta for dinner. This is country living at it's finest.

I don't usually share recipes but I just have to share today's' stewed tomato creation.

Bren's Italian Pasta
6 cups of Roma - skinned and diced
3 large Brandywine Tomatoes
1 large sweet onion - diced
2 large green peppers ( diced)
2 gypsy peppers ( diced)
1/8 cup of basil chopped
1/8 cup of oregano - chopped
4 large cloves of garlic
dash of salt

Bring the above ingredients to a boil.

Add cooked and diced Sweet Italian Sausage and serve over whole wheat pasta noodles.

I blogged a step by step entry about CANNING last summer at THE ART OF CANNING
if you would like to read more about processing using the HOT BATH method.

ENJOY!!!! Can't wait to share my next harvest this summer.

Morning at The Country Compound

2009-08-23T08:18:00.000-07:00

It was a cool morning in early August when I headed out to visit my Niece at her new home and garden business. This was truly a relaxing drive out on Ohio's scenic state routes with my favorite coffee in mug and Nikon Camera in the passenger seat beside me. My Niece recently started her own garden business after many years of home gardening. As you arrive at the driveway it is a peaceful welcome nestled in the woodland area of Swanton, Ohio. This location was easy to find with the well MARKED drive way and arrows pointing to plenty of easy parking.

One of the assets to JEN'S garden business is there isn't a HOT HOUSE to walk through. Rather then being rushed to pick out your plants because you are 'sweating to death' I was able to walk the pathways in a natural setting browsing the many perennials available. It is easy to see why Jens Greenhouse is named the COUNTRY COMPOUND. This cozy garden experience reminds me of Mulberry Farms in Huron Ohio where I have been trying to get Jen to take a break and come visit with me. With the looks of what she has planted for Fall, I don't see any free time in Jen's future.
Jen has some of my favorite herbs and perennials on hand. I was happy to find a Coral Bell that I was searching for in numerous of the larger greenhouses in our area. EVERYTHING is labeled with description cards and price tags NO QUESTIONS to be asked concerning the plant because it is all at your finger tips!

I think some people forget that FALL is one of the best times to plant many perennials and bulbs for next years garden. Country Compound had a large selection of MUMS for fall planting. I can't wait to return to see what is BLOOMING for Autumn!
A few of my favorite things at Jen's location was the ceramic LEAF sculpture and water feature planting ideas.

Looking forward to next season to see how the Country Compound will grow being a new business this year. In the mean time, I will enjoy the photos from a wonderful Summer Morning I spent walking the flowers with my dear Niece Jen!

Humid & Hot Bloom Tuesday

2009-08-18T11:50:00.001-07:00

Lantana and Moss Rose

What better to share on a humid and hot Summer Bloom Tuesday then the tropical Lantana and Moss Rose. Both are favorites of mine when the heat kicks in. These are always a planted late spring with the other annuals in my front flower beds as little investments to insure a lively garden come the end of the summer season. These plants do best in DRY, low maintenance areas of the garden.

Kind of makes you want to go indulge a margarita or something festive doesn't it?!
ENJOY and Happy Bloom Tuesday from my garden in the Midwest.

Zinnias On Sunday

2009-08-16T09:49:00.001-07:00

This is Sunday in my Veggie Garden. An 8 foot row of zinnia's grow along the border for cutting. The photo above was taken at sunrise. I love the soft light on such powerful bloom colors. Click for a larger view.

This is the Green Envy from Burpee Seed 2009.

Zinnia Collection in August 2009

Easy Hibiscus Syriacus Weekend

2009-08-15T20:45:00.000-07:00

The Hibiscus Syriacus (Rose of Sharon) has always been one of the first flowering shrubs to add to my landscaping in both homes we have owned. It is a symbol of home to me because the flowering bush brings back wonderful memories of my child hood home. My parents had a single white flowering Rose of Sharon next to the front porch stair case. The beautiful shrub is the background to many of our back to school photos my Mother would take as we left for school each year. When my Father passed away 1o years ago my Aunt dug up that 30 plus year old bush and it survived the move. AMAZING! I do have a White Double Blooming Hibiscus in this same tree lining the back of the house. I think the bush does it's best out in a treeline where it can grow wild. However this shrub line in the collage is on the West side of my home where the windows are high and this bush fits perfect.

One of my favorite Rose of Sharon blooms comes from the Violet Satin by Proven Winner. The collage above features this shrub that was added to the BGgarden 2 years ago. It provides a wonderful backdrop of color near my country garden swing. This shrub is known for easy care and does best in zones 10 - 5. The biggest problem I have with this bush is keeping the Japanese Beetles off of it. This bush in the collage above has been dusted to prevent attracting these unwanted pest.

Today as I walk the gardens to snap a few shots with my little Fuji FinePix sweet little Oppie threw himself at my feet numberous times. Finally I had to stop to give this little guy some must needed attention. He was such a trooper following me around the dry and very humid garden this afternoon.
Perhaps this will be my favorite photo of the week. The delightful Joe Pye Weed in full bloom with a 'mystery' butterfly enjoying it. This native perennial in my neck of the woods stands well over six feet tall. I have seen many of these butterflies this late summer but not many of the great Monarch. I can't help but wonderful where have they all gone?

Enjoy the Weekend Dear Garden Friends!

The Great Sunflower Has Arrived

2009-08-13T21:43:00.000-07:00

Perhaps one of the most rewarding days in the garden each summer is to walk among the striking sunflower that were planting in early spring. Each year since I began growing sunflowers I could not help but think of planting more in the upcoming year. I wonder if there will ever be a year where I feel satisfied at the amount of sunflowers that so gracefully bloom in the veggie garden. I suppose I just can't get ENOUGH of the Midwest Sunflower.

This year I planted 8 different variety of sunflower. The photo above is a 10 foot tall Sunflower that I grew from a seed packet purchased at Target Sean Conway collection. It is beautiful!

Happy Summer Everyone!

Summer Colors at Fair

2009-08-10T21:20:00.001-07:00

The local fair has come to an end. It was a wonderful time spent with family and friends enjoying some of the best sights and sounds of summer in the Midwest. The collage above are a few photos I took from the week. The colorful balloon was a wonderful surprise when it drifted over the horse arena. The colors of the winning ribbons as they blow in the warm summer breeze and the Goodyear Balloon the hovered over the barn on the last day of fair.
This was the first year I entered some of my wonderful blooms in the County Fair flower show. It was a wonderful experience and I learned so much talking to local gardeners. There were two different shows during the week. On Tuesday I won a SECOND and a THIRD ribbon for my sunflower and my ornemental grass. On Friday my dark sunflower ( above) won THIRD place.

What a surprise to see that my lily stem won FIRST place in Fridays Show!

Entering the flowers was an interesting experience. The woman running the show were not very welcoming but most of the gardeners who were putting their entries together were more then willing to help with any questions. I can't wait to enter NEXT YEAR because it was such a RUSH to see what flowers got picked as winners!

Have you ever heard of such a thing? A fellow blogger had wrote on his FACEBOOK how rewarding it is to log the weight of all the produce that comes out of his garden. I quickly took up on this suggestions and it has been loads of fun. This basket full pictured above weighted in at just over 12 pounds! I am up to 74 pounds this garden season and the tomatoes are just starting to arrive. Can't wait to see what my entire harvest will weigh by the end of the season.

My day lilies welcome me home to the garden this evening after a long week away at Fair. It is super nice to be back in my garden. Hows your summer going?

Saturday Seasons

2009-08-01T20:40:00.000-07:00

The collage above is a collection of images reflecting on the four seasons we have here in zone 5b. I am entering this collection in a local photography contest. WISH ME LUCK!

This blog entry is going to be an 'artsy' one of sort because I also want to share with you my digital Imaging project I did from a photo I have of my Jack kitty. I used Photoshop to create this image.

I just love the photo above because it truly shows how my dear Jack kitty is.... He thinks he is being sneaking and about to pounce the next thing that moves in front of him!

Happy Auguest Friends!

Blooms on Tuesday

2009-07-28T20:59:00.001-07:00

This has to be one of my favorite day lilies this summer - Happy Bloom Tuesday!

I want to share with you this MYSTERY flower..... any thoughts on what it might be. The white bloom is spreading like crazy. It is a mid summer bloomer and is about 24" tall with mild fragrant blooms. The Yellow bloomer arrives about the same time of the season put towers over the white spreader. They both enjoy full sun. ANY comments on this MYSTERY BLOOMER would be greatly appreciated.

The white blooms of the WEED ground cover and the hosta blooms I missed while doing some dead heading last week are the only 'blooms' you will see in my fern shade garden. Just had to share this favorite garden from our place.
Awww........
This is the newest baby from our rabbit barn. Isn't she a cutie!
Happy Summer and Thank You for stopping by.

July Jam - SUNDAY EASY!

2009-07-19T08:36:00.001-07:00

For the past few days I have been working on canning a few of my favorite in season fruits. This was the first year after waiting 3 years to have a harvest big enough to actually process some of my own jam. So far I have gotten about 20 pints worth of delicious raspberry jam. One Jar is totally going to county fair for judging. The recipe is super easy - I simple use the recipe in the SURE JELL package!

I don't want to miss out on all the JULY BLOOM fun so I am posting this collage above featuring a walk about I did this morning in a few of my gardens. All the flower photos featured on this entry today are from my Fuji Finepix S2000HD. It was in the shop for a recall and I just recently had it returned to me. This is a fabulous little camera which features HD video recording. Great camera for SNAP and GO shots.

I am happy to note the Agastache plant I divided in the spring is doing well in both locations of the garden today. Read more about my Blue Fortune at the link highlight.

You can't leave out the Echinacea in July - one of the best bloomers in the garden even during a dry spell.

My first shot of the morning was of Boo.... enjoying my rocking chair on the front porch. I hope you enjoy your Sunday in the Garden. Thank you for taking the time to stop by!

Coneflower Wordless Wednesday

2009-07-15T11:48:00.000-07:00

Flower Frenzy Friday

2009-07-09T21:34:00.000-07:00

I don't know a better way to share with you the feeling in the garden other then posting this wonderful collage exploding with color.

Happy Friday Dear Friends!

First Russian in 2009

2009-07-08T08:20:00.001-07:00

One of my new additions to heirloom tomato varieties in our veggie garden put off its' first piece of fruit today. I am super excited not only because it is known for a long producing season but because it is the FIRST TOMATO on the year. The description that came with the start plant from the Mulberry Creek Herb Farm reads : This Russian heirloom produces a long and steady crop of 2-inch elongated plum-shaped fruits colored a beautiful deep-mahogany with dusky-green shoulders. Fruit resembles a small paste tomato but with thinner walls. Unique sweet tangy flavor. In the photo above you can see me holding this cute little plum in front of a portion of the veggie garden that I spend three hours watering by hand last night. We need rain 'big time' in my neck of the woods.
The collage collection of Rudebeckia has to be my favorite bloom this week. I love the rich fall tons and the massive amount this one plant is shooting out. I swear I counted over 20 blooms measuring at least 4" wide on this perennial. The Rudebeckia plant has been one of my favorites in the country garden since I was introduced to it about three years ago. Since then I have added 4 different varieties growing in random locations on our property. This zone 5 grower can tolerate poor growing conditions as well but my #1 reason for loving this bloomer is it blooms most of the summer. Below is the a coneflower bloom I wanted to include to this blog entry from this late mornings walk in the garden.

Echinacea / Coneflower says ' Good Morning'

It was only his shadow!

Flower Frenzy Friday

2009-07-03T13:25:00.001-07:00

Hollyhocks in Bloom

Seeing many shades of Red and White on this Friday before the 4th of July!

Seeing GIANTS on Bloom Tuesday

2009-06-30T14:24:00.001-07:00

Giant Spinner Gerber Daisies to celebrate this Bloom Tuesday on the last day of June.

I have never seen such a bloom.... wonderful! Reminds me a little of the giant Dahlia flower.

This afternoon Hubby and I took a wonderful drive out to Mugg'zs adorable cafe ( thank you KYLEE!) and enjoyed a fabulous bowl of Tomato Basil Soup. I couldn't help but imagine recreating this fabulous soup as soon as Tomato season arrives in my neck of the woods. It won't be long and we will have plenty of tomatos. During the trip I brought my camera along and snapped a few shots of this cute corner garden that has won an award from the Toledo Botanical Gardens! How Awesome is that?!!! Can't wait to brew up a pitcher of some wonderful hibiscus Blueberry Tea I brought home from her large selection.

GIANT yellow lily from my garden on Bloom Tuesday and I had to give this poor GIANT Spinner (photo below) another chance to shine.............................

Happy Bloom Tuesday!

Lacey Sun Combo

2009-06-27T09:22:00.000-07:00

Lacey Sun in June

It is no wonder the Rudbeckia hirta 'Prairie Sun' perennial has won a few awards in this decade. Paired up with the Sambucus nigra (black lace) and you are sure to have a winning look in the garden. This morning I am sharing with you a little corner of my Master bedroom garden located along the back wood line of our yard. I am in love with the Proven Winner Elderberry bush having to stop myself from purchasing 'too many' of the same shrub. Is it possible to have too much of a good thing?!!! I had to share the new growth featured in the collage above. This shrub is similar to the Japanese Maple only I just read that according to the Humane Society of American Sambucus leaves, bark, roots, and buds can be toxic to pets. This is means that the plants are generally identified as having the capability for producing a toxic reaction. hmmm.....

Does the image above say SUMMER or what?!

I want to make note that this seed spreads easily so you will be guaranteed years of blooms. This beauty has been in this location for 3 years now.

Lacey Sun dressing up the corner of the landscaping in the photo to the left.

Not sure where all my little kitty friends are after their breakfast was served this morning but this pretty little butterfly stopped by to say 'Good Morning' as I snapped my Lacey Sun photos to share with you this weekend.

What are some of your favorite combinations in your garden this summer? I would love to hear from you.

There's a Party Going on......

2009-06-26T14:27:00.000-07:00

in the BGgarden!
Just look at these wonderful festive summer colors POPPIN' on this FABULOUS Friday in June.

Happy Returns - it just keeps on giving!

Oriental lily Blooms reaching close to 4 feet tall.

Please stop over to Tootsie Time for a look at all the Garden Bloggers participating in her Fertilize Friday Fun. I love Tootsies Peonies that are just starting to bloom.

Blanket Flower who need to be fertilized before the last blooms opens.

As I clicked over to blogger dashboard to enter some blooms for Friday I could n't help but click over to Hocking Hills Garden to look closer at her blanket flower first up on my FOLLOW list for this Bloom Friday.

This just wouldn't be a note from my garden if I didn't include one of my babies who always follow me around on my photo adventures. This day it was close to 100* ( with the humidity) and little Gracie would seek shelter from the sun in my shadow as I clicked away in the heat. In this photo she came out from between the ornamental grasses that she tried to find shade in.
Wishing you a wonderful weekend in the garden!

Wordless Movie Wednesday

2009-06-24T17:29:00.000-07:00

Butterfly and Catmint

What is this Bloom on Tuesday?

2009-06-23T19:51:00.000-07:00

Mystery Bloom Tuesday

This is another bloom that my sister in law gave me years ago from her country garden. I planted it in my small garden in town that was mostly clay. When we moved to the country I brought this May - June Bloomer and planted it in mostly sunny and somewhat sandy soil. She is doing well and I have been able to divide it twice now in the past six years. I know it as 'BUTTON FLOWER'. Any ideas what this pretty bloomer is really named?

Happy Bloom Tuesday!