I have great empathy to those of you who are still enduring winter weather, mother nature seems quite cruel this year... but for those of us who reside in New England spring is here...an early morning walk finds the woods alive with scampering squirrels and the delightful sound of bird song...trees have begun to leaf out while tiny wildflowers show their dainty faces...I do feel the presence of fairies peering out at me...the woods have taken on a magical quality...
The cold wet earth has dried and is warm enough for spring planting to begin... plant sales held by local churches and historic properties are now found on the weekend agenda...I find this a wonderful way to expand one's flower garden and also offer the opportunity to try "new to you" plants... and the much sort after heirloom plants,...a new plant added to my perennial bed this spring is "Leopard's Bane" a yellow daisy like flower...It is time for list making... deciding which plants to fill containers and window boxes...Friday I paid one of my favorite nurseries a visit...I did not purchase anything...but simply enjoyed the warmth, color and fragrance that the greenhouses had to offer...when purchasing plants and flowers I make a great effort to buy local, but I admit, buying inexpensive flats from big box stores, does occur...here at Dog Trot Farm every penny counts...
It is also time to take note of those plants which did not made it through the long winter...and those plants which give a favorite look and color...My feeling is every garden needs a bit of Lady's Mantle and Rose Campion, these perennials make a flowerbed "'pop...well, my flowerbed anyway...
Now, it would not be spring if I did not mention chickens, specifically chicks...my flock of fifteen are doing well and remain dependable layers...a chick order form has hung on my refrigerator for two months...I had been on the fence...should I, shouldn't I... ...finally...the decision was made...Travis Lloyd will have his first four chicks arriving the week of May 25th...two Buff and two Barred, these two breeds work well here in Maine. Cold weather hardy, lovely disposition, and adapt well to coop living...Now for those of you who patiently wait for warm weather, I hope it finds you soon... remember spring never skips it's turn! Happy gardening everyone...
