Saturday Gardening, Puttering and Adventure Thread, Nov. 12

Hope you are having a nice Veterans Day Weekend. A reminder from Don in Kansas. Double flowers this time.

Poppies
Inspired by the World War I poem "In Flanders Fields," in which the opening lines refer to poppies that were the first flowers to grow in the soil from soldiers' graves in the Flanders region of Belgium, these small red flowers were adopted by the National American Legion as their official symbol of remembrance in 1920.
The Royal British Legion soon after adopted the poppy as their symbol, as did veterans' groups in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, as well as a host of other countries.
Although they are closely related, the poppies used for Veterans Day (as well as Memorial Day) are not the same species as the opium poppy which is grown as a field crop to produce opium and poppy seeds. Opium poppies were once prohibited in the United States under the Opium Poppy Control Act of 1942, however, the law has since been repealed and the law of poppy cultivation in the U.S. is now somewhat vague and remains controversial.

Coincidently, the red remembrance poppies aren't free from controversy of their own. In fact, some anti-war groups view the remembrance poppy as a political symbol of war and conflict. The controversy has even spread to the sports world and particularly European soccer clubs where remembrance poppies are a common occurrence on team uniforms in the run-up to Remembrance Day.
Some groups have adopted white poppies as an alternative to, or an accompaniment to, red poppies as a way to symbolize peace without glamorizing war. Additionally, purple poppies are sometimes used in Britain to commemorate animals that have been victims of war.
Regardless of the controversies surrounding this little red flower, you're probably going to see them "popping" up around town this week. When you do, remember to take a moment to give thanks to all the veterans who serve - or have served - our country.

Thanks to all who have served.

Tools

From Eromero:

This a Hori Hori garden knife, no really, a garden tool!

Yes it is. How many of you have one? How many want one?

Nature and Travel Adventures

Fascinating facts about Painted Ladies

They Have Unusual Migration Patterns
The painted lady is an irruptive migrant, meaning that it migrates independently of any seasonal or geographic patterns. Some evidence suggests that painted lady migrations may be linked to the El Nino climate pattern. In Mexico and some other regions, it appears that migration is sometimes related to overpopulation.
The migrating populations that move from North Africa to Europe may include millions of butterflies. In spring, painted ladies fly low when migrating, usually only 6 to 12 feet above the ground. This makes them highly visible to butterfly watchers but also makes them susceptible to colliding with cars. At other times, painted ladies migrate at such high altitudes that they are not observed at all, simply appearing in a new region unexpectedly.
They Can Fly Fast and Far
These medium-sized butterflies can cover a lot of ground, up to 100 miles per day during their migrations.2 A painted lady is capable of reaching a speed of nearly 30 miles per hour. Painted ladies reach northern areas well ahead of some of their more famous migrating cousins, like monarch butterflies. And because they get such an early start to their spring travel, migrating painted ladies are able to feed on spring annuals, like fiddlenecks (Amsinckia).
They Do Not Overwinter in Cold Regions
Unlike many other species of butterflies that migrate to warm climates in winter, painted ladies die once winter hits in colder regions. They are present in cold regions only because of their impressive ability to migrate long distances from their warm-weather breeding areas.

You may find a poor little frozen Painted Lady soon if you live in the North

Long time garden lurker here, though I have sent a few pictures to the pet thread. Today's snail picture inspired me to send pictures of 'Stephano.' We visited friends in Naples and I was having my morning coffee in the garden. Apparently Stephano needed a caffeine fix.
Love the garden thread. Living in a high desert in New Mexico, gardens are a challenge.
Thanks!
JML

Stephano:

Naples - morning view:

Jumping frogs, set to their own musical score:

Gardens of The Horde

Growing or harvesting anything interesting? Preparing for winter or for next year?

And a reminder that Veterans Day is connected to Independence Day. The single poppy below looks like the traditional Veterans Day poppy, doesn't it?

From Don in Kansas again, Red, White and Blue selections from among his flowers. More great photos and information at the link.

Hope everyone has a nice weekend.

If you would like to send photos, stories, links, etc. for the Saturday Gardening, Puttering and Adventure Thread, the address is:

ktinthegarden at g mail dot com

Remember to include the nic or name by which you wish to be known at AoSHQ, or let us know if you want to remain a lurker.

Week in Review

What has changed since last week's thread? Saturday Gardening, Puttering and Adventure Thread, November 5.

Any thoughts or questions? Check out the late comments.

I closed the comments on this post so you wouldn't get banned for commenting on a week-old post, but don't try it anyway.

Posted by: K.T. at 01:22 PM

Comments

(Jump to bottom of comments)

1 Howdy, KT!

Posted by: Duke Lowell at November 12, 2022 01:27 PM (u73oe)

2 Called em

Posted by: Duke Lowell at November 12, 2022 01:27 PM (u73oe)

3 Beautiful poppy shots!

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at November 12, 2022 01:28 PM (OEuiW)

4 PDA for the last time, I guess I didn't explain adequately. Products at the moment: the tag on the shelf with $/oz or whatever MAY not match the product content/weight with, as I keep trying to stress, an IDENTICAL UPC.
If the retailer doesn't catch the content change, the customer has just been 'ripped off' by a shelf tag, that matches the product UPC

Posted by: LenNeal at November 12, 2022 01:28 PM (b5ENh)

5 Grew up with snails and slugs along the CA coast. You can have them.

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at November 12, 2022 01:29 PM (OEuiW)

6 Love the flower pics, they are so pretty.

Posted by: CaliGirl at November 12, 2022 01:32 PM (4XsZ/)

7 Today in Little Oaxaca on the Miami, there is no gardening taking place. That is because SW Ohio is getting between one and two inches of snow. Either the LORD is humoring the usual two-month lead on Christmas, or there is some climate testing on a second Little Ice Age. Either way, I'll still be able to visit Mom & Dad tomorrow.

Posted by: exdem13 at November 12, 2022 01:34 PM (W+kMI)

8 On the plus side, the snow may kill off some of the stink bugs.

Posted by: exdem13 at November 12, 2022 01:35 PM (W+kMI)

9 Hi, Duke! Hope everyone is doing well.

Posted by: KT at November 12, 2022 01:38 PM (rrtZS)

10 In my bag ofgarden seeds, I have two varieties of breadseed poppies. They are grown for the seed, of course. I look forward to planting them next year, if I can get the garden sorted out.

Posted by: Notsothoreau at November 12, 2022 01:38 PM (uz3Px)

11 Good afternoon Greenthumbs
Actually did get another ripe Anaheim pepper though small, it was hot.
Have got maybe bit more than half of leaves in my yard in the compost bin. Earliest ever got moving.

Posted by: Skip at November 12, 2022 01:38 PM (xhxe8)

12 This is the time of year when I review my gardening performance on a number of metrics. I haven't completed my report card yet, but I need to break down the garden routine by month/season to prepare for spring (which will be here before you know it).

I did well on seed sprouting, but terrible in transplanting. I vow to do better next year. It's one of those things where preparing the final resting place for seedlings is crucial, and being a procrastinator really screws me up. Even now I have a load of bulbs that need planting and I'm not ready. Fortunately here in SC I have a few weeks, maybe, before the ground freezes.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 01:40 PM (Mzdiz)

13 We did well with canning the green beans and tomatoes. Could have been better on the tomatoes, since a lot went bad before I could can them. I've decided that next year, I'll cut them up and toss the rotten parts, and just freeze them until I can make a batch of sauce. Getting the food mill was brilliant, since I can get rid of seeds and skin.

I failed miserably with the okra, freezing only a few pounds. Part of that was preparing for the wedding, which was a YUGE distraction. Other than that, it's easy to blanch, cut and freeze okra in any amount.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 01:41 PM (Mzdiz)

14 I've read that those garden knives can be very useful. Especially when digging up weeds or anything with tough roots. Also handy when the soil is very hard/dry.

Posted by: Martini Farmer at November 12, 2022 01:42 PM (Q4IgG)

15 Jumping frogs should be encouraged to kick ass 24/7.

Posted by: Dr. Bone at November 12, 2022 01:42 PM (geVLo)

16 Grew up with snails and slugs along the CA coast. You can have them.

Same here, I detest the little buggers.

Posted by: jewells45 fuck cancer at November 12, 2022 01:43 PM (nxdel)

17 I'll only plant squash and melons directly in the field in the future. By the time I transplanted, it was pretty hot and most of them died. Fortunately we still had time to direct sow.

Next spring I want to use T-posts and cattle panels for tomatoes. That will be a big help! Publius needs prodding to get the tractoring done in the spring. A lot depends on how wet it's been, or the tractor gets "marred" as he says.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 01:44 PM (Mzdiz)

18 beautiful pictures! First freeze tonight, hope it doesn't kill the blooms on my brugmansia.

I always kind of wanted to grow opium poppies but didn't have the nerve.

Posted by: Tom Servo at November 12, 2022 01:45 PM (trdmm)

19 The garden is long put to bed. It appears we WILL have a few tomatoes on Thanksgiving. Always our goal. That will be a little over 6 weeks since we pulled them all before our killing frost.
In other harvest news, it's deer season! Put a doe in the fridge (to age a week) yesterday.
My wife has become a determined sausage maker. Her first real attempt (Polska kielbasa) is divine. Next week, venison summer sausage

Posted by: MkY at November 12, 2022 01:48 PM (cPGH3)

20 I always kind of wanted to grow opium poppies but didn't have the nerve.
Posted by: Tom Servo

I remember a report in the LA Times (in the '60s it wasn't, as much of, a lib rag).
It seems a lady threw her old cooking poppy seeds into the garden plot in the front yard.
Yup. Some grew and a cop recognized the flowers.
Hilarity followed... well at least for those reading the report.

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at November 12, 2022 01:49 PM (OEuiW)

21 They havent' disced my tomatoes or the peppers yet. They look kind of sad but I"m still picking a lot.
I should have planted a few plants inside the hoops. We have had frost the last few mornings.

Posted by: CaliGirl at November 12, 2022 01:51 PM (4XsZ/)

22 Next spring I want to use T-posts and cattle panels for tomatoes. That will be a big help! Publius needs prodding to get the tractoring done in the spring. A lot depends on how wet it's been, or the tractor gets "marred" as he says.
Posted by: Miley, okravangelist

Miley, did you see what we came up with? We call it the KC Cascade (cause you gotta have a name). We angle those cattle panels, and just kinda shove the vines through it here and there. Keeps them off the ground, and makes it very easy to pick. No more tying them up, either. Not quite a 45 degree angle...maybe 60 degrees?

Posted by: MkY at November 12, 2022 01:51 PM (cPGH3)

23 Husband knew a woman on Vashon Island that took care of peoples' gardens. She always made sure that opium poppies were planted. She would take the stems and leaves, after cleaning them up, and make poppy tea from them. It's effective stuff.

Posted by: Notsothoreau at November 12, 2022 01:54 PM (uz3Px)

24 Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 01:40 PM (Mzdiz)

I just want you to know that it's *entirely* your fault I've missed the Gardening Thread the last month. That link you sent me to the Homesteading Family channel's walkthrough of her cottage garden led me down a serious rabbit hole and I've been too busy gardening (advantage of a subtropical climate) to get to the thread in time to thank you.

Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at November 12, 2022 01:55 PM (nC+QA)

25 From Boise area: lows heading for 20 F, highs mostly mid-30's. Rain began Tuesday night, then turned to snow which fell all day Wednesday. There's still a little on the ground.

I trashed all the remaining tomato vine and most of the zucchini plants. The trash company also got 17 leaf bags from us this week - tomorrow will be spent seeing how much leaf-bag-stuffing we two seniors can do in a day. I did get the 2 garden hoses put in the shed, but I'd waited too late to drain them, I was shaking ice cylinders out of them...

Someone wondered whether there were any flowers left in northern gardens - I mentioned my faithful Johnny Jump-Ups, but forgot I have 3 mum plants and an arc of sweet alyssum right behind the kitchen window! In spring, I'll have new crocuses and old hyacinths there.

We made 8 half-pints of chokecherry syrup from the darker chokecherries I picked. Warning to other who do canning- pectin does break down if boiled too long... we were aiming for jelly.

Stay prepared, stay brave out there.

Posted by: Pat* at November 12, 2022 01:55 PM (dqwY5)

26 I managed to burn a pile of tree limbs and move the firewood to the carport. I'm done. Legs are toast. Lots of stairs past week at work.
I think I'll just drink beer and try to figure out the guitar solo in "driven to tears". Seems appropriate after reading some comments here this morning.

Posted by: Rasmus at November 12, 2022 01:56 PM (WfK8d)

27 Eromero you have just solved one of my annual dilemmas, what to get Mrs. Sock for Christmas . Appreciate it immensely amigo!

Posted by: Sock Monkey * Ungovernable at November 12, 2022 01:57 PM (Lok2/)

28 Miley, did you see what we came up with? We call it the KC Cascade (cause you gotta have a name). We angle those cattle panels, and just kinda shove the vines through it here and there. Keeps them off the ground, and makes it very easy to pick. No more tying them up, either. Not quite a 45 degree angle...maybe 60 degrees?

Posted by: MkY at November 12, 2022 01:51 PM (cPGH3)

Do you happen to have a photo or diagram? Or a photo on a previous garden thread? This sounds interesting. My email is in my nick.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 01:59 PM (Mzdiz)

29 I think it was in a thread, but I'll pull a photo and email it.

Posted by: MkY at November 12, 2022 02:00 PM (cPGH3)

30 I managed to burn a pile of tree limbs and move the firewood to the carport.
Posted by: Rasmus

Did the carport burn down?

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at November 12, 2022 02:01 PM (OEuiW)

31 My Thai pepper plant has about 4 peppers and close to a dozen flowers. It's my special little project.
I want to pull it from the aerogarden and plant in soil the next week or so.
Being indoors I pollinate using a bamboo skewer. Seems to work fine.

Posted by: Bosk at November 12, 2022 02:01 PM (OR9VM)

32 Last night, instead of doing what needed to be done, I immersed myself in the grey boxes . Near the end of last night's ONT, I ignored grace and decorem and traded insults with a moron I find tiresome. What a waste of time . Tonight I will do what needs to be done and peel, core and slice the 15 or so gallons of apples that remain in my pantry room in preparation for canning.

Posted by: Sock Monkey * Ungovernable at November 12, 2022 02:05 PM (Lok2/)

33 I just want you to know that it's *entirely* your fault I've missed the Gardening Thread the last month. That link you sent me to the Homesteading Family channel's walkthrough of her cottage garden led me down a serious rabbit hole and I've been too busy gardening (advantage of a subtropical climate) to get to the thread in time to thank you.

Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at November 12, 2022 01:55 PM (nC+QA)

Wasn't that a wonderful gateway to delightful madness?

Where are you located? We're zone 7b. I first became interested in gardening when I lived in Sweden. It's a little different here in upstate SC. Would love to hear updates.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 02:05 PM (Mzdiz)

34 When I was a kid you used to see guys selling paper poppies to benefits vets. Do they still do that anywhere?

Posted by: All Hail Eris, Live! from the Dungeon of Discord at November 12, 2022 02:08 PM (Dc2NZ)

35 It took two days, but I finally dug out the oleander the previous homeowner had planted in pride-of-place in the front yard. I've always hated it, especially since it's never bloomed, but didn't know what else to put there. Lowe's had camellias and a search says that all varieties can be used for tea, not just sinensis, so that is now in the flower bed instead.

Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at November 12, 2022 02:08 PM (nC+QA)

36 I still have some hardy pansies, marigolds, blue salvia, and lantana in my flower patch. Don't know how well they'll survive the coming cold slap.

Posted by: All Hail Eris, Live! from the Dungeon of Discord at November 12, 2022 02:09 PM (Dc2NZ)

37 Last night, instead of doing what needed to be done, I immersed myself in the grey boxes . Near the end of last night's ONT, I ignored grace and decorem and traded insults with a moron I find tiresome. What a waste of time . Tonight I will do what needs to be done and peel, core and slice the 15 or so gallons of apples that remain in my pantry room in preparation for canning.

Posted by: Sock Monkey * Ungovernable at November 12, 2022 02:05 PM (Lok2/)

I saw that. The phrase "wrestling with pigs in the mud" came to mind. I've done it, too.

Yes, canning is a much better use of your time!

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 02:10 PM (Mzdiz)

38 @10 (Notsothoreau)- you need to cold stratify the breadseed poppy's before you plant them. If you live uin an area where you get a good several months of cold and some snow, you can direct sew in the fall.

If you live in a warmer climate to cold stratify the seeds- slightly moisten some sand and or sphangum moss (peat moss) - mix with the seeds- (5 parts sand: 1 part seeds) wrap in a slightly damp paper towel. By damp- I mean damp, not wet and drippy.

Put them in the refrigerator for 2.5- 3 months. Plant right after last frost and they should sprout. Do not put them in the freezer.

If you don't cold stratify , they will germinate poorly. It needs the cold to break down

Posted by: Poppyseed Bagels at November 12, 2022 02:11 PM (yASXZ)

39 Any gardening is over for the year but the wonderful photos in the gardening thread are always a pleasure. Such great detail and, sometimes, humor. (The close-up of the snail is a hoot. I never think of snails as having a personality.)

Posted by: JTB at November 12, 2022 02:11 PM (7EjX1)

40 Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 02:05 PM (Mzdiz)

We're in zone 8 so I can get away with planting annuals this late. I really wish the box stores would have a rack of seeds for cool weather crops this time of year. I'd be planting those instead just trying to root the ends of the lettuces I bought for salads.

Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at November 12, 2022 02:13 PM (nC+QA)

41 We get some thistles with those pretty white flowers from Don in KS's pics; but I try to keep them pulled cuz thistles. They are somewhat attractive in a ditch when I'm just driving by.

Posted by: PaleRider is simply irredeemable at November 12, 2022 02:13 PM (3cGpq)

42 I wish we had apples.

MiL goes down to Ridge Spring every summer (usually twice) and buys a ton of peaches. We canned some in light syrup (about 26 peaches, 13 pints) and boy, they came out well! Did another 8 pints in late August.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 02:13 PM (Mzdiz)

43 >>>This a Hori Hori garden knife, no really, a garden tool!

>>>Yes it is. How many of you have one?

I have one. And between that, a small one-handed pick axe, and a hoop hoe, you can make quick work of most weeding tasks.

Add a Woodsman Pal or cheaper knockoff if you've got a lot of vines to tackle.

Posted by: Comrade flounder, Disinformation Demon at November 12, 2022 02:14 PM (yHsuS)

44 Opps, I forgot to add to put the damp sand/seed mixture in a sealed baggie , then put in the refrigerator.

Posted by: Poppyseed Bagels at November 12, 2022 02:14 PM (yASXZ)

45 I have one of those garden knives/tools/whatever and it works well. It's especially helpful when digging into compacted soil and dividing root balls. That serrated edge really does cut.

Posted by: JTB at November 12, 2022 02:14 PM (7EjX1)

46 We canned some in light syrup (about 26 peaches, 13 pints) and boy, they came out well! Did another 8 pints in late August.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 02:13 PM (Mzdiz)

Last time we canned them, ours turned out mushy. Our jam, however, is excellent.

Posted by: Comrade flounder, Disinformation Demon at November 12, 2022 02:15 PM (yHsuS)

47 They are somewhat attractive in a ditch when I'm just driving by.

Posted by: PaleRider is simply irredeemable at November 12, 2022 02:13 PM (3cGpq)

Aren't they pretty? Shame they're so spiky.

Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at November 12, 2022 02:16 PM (nC+QA)

48 We're in zone 8 so I can get away with planting annuals this late. I really wish the box stores would have a rack of seeds for cool weather crops this time of year. I'd be planting those instead just trying to root the ends of the lettuces I bought for salads.

Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at November 12, 2022 02:13 PM (nC+QA)

Check out rareseeds.com (Baker Creek) for this next year (and the coming spring). Their catalogue will be coming out, so you want to sign up for that. The photography is fantastic. Real garden porn and will get you hot and bothered for next season.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 02:16 PM (Mzdiz)

49 I've got 120 onion sets to plant, and a few shallots too. Can I just take a regular garlic bulb and plant the cloves?

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 02:18 PM (Mzdiz)

50

Or have one of those Hori knives, works really well but impossible to get an edge on without a grindstone.

Posted by: Farmer Smith at November 12, 2022 02:19 PM (TcQeK)

51 Winter has decided to cheat this year. We had 8+ inches of snow on Nov 4th and then another 3 inches last Sunday night. Wednesday night it got down to 12 degrees . I am looking out my French doors at the backyard garden boxes that I have procrastinated on cleaning . Sometimes I need a good sharp kick in the ass.

Posted by: Sock Monkey * Ungovernable at November 12, 2022 02:19 PM (Lok2/)

52 One of the Christmas cactus plants is just showing some blooms. Hooray!! I love that vibrant, deep red against the green. This is one I propagated from leaf cuttings and had no idea if it would survive. Guess they are pretty tough to withstand my ham-handed efforts.

Posted by: JTB at November 12, 2022 02:21 PM (7EjX1)

53 Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 02:16 PM (Mzdiz)

Don't know if I dare. Right now I'm planning on planting a bunch of grocery store seeds and seeing if anything sprouts. It worked with the pinto beans I tried, and apparently will with many others as well. I'd always assumed they were treated in some manner to prevent sprouting, but apparently that isn't the case.

Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at November 12, 2022 02:21 PM (nC+QA)

54 I need to take a shower and get ready for some company arriving in an hour or so. Will try to check back later.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 02:21 PM (Mzdiz)

55 Miley. Email sent. Pretty pitiful. It does show the panels on their angle, but those wee little maters don't look right!
Ha! I have aerials of the garden in '19, and '20.
Evidently didn't fly it last two years.

Posted by: MkY at November 12, 2022 02:26 PM (cPGH3)

56 Can I just take a regular garlic bulb and plant the cloves?

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 02:18 PM (Mzdiz)

I just started getting leaves from the three Walmart garlic heads I planted in a planter a couple of weeks ago. I saw a video that said you needed to use USA grown garlic because foreign grown garlic, or at least Chinese, is treated to prevent sprouting during shipping. My garlic did say USA grown, so I guess I got lucky since I saw the video after planting it.

Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at November 12, 2022 02:26 PM (nC+QA)

57 It took two days, but I finally dug out the oleander the previous homeowner had planted in pride-of-place in the front yard. I've always hated it, especially since it's never bloomed, but didn't know what else to put there. Lowe's had camellias and a search says that all varieties can be used for tea, not just sinensis, so that is now in the flower bed instead.

At the previous house I had two spots with oleander. The stuff in front of the windows was pulled and replaced with a hibiscus that got huge. The stuff along the driveway was replaced with paving bricks. The bricks were more attractive looking.

Posted by: Blanco Basura - moronhorde.com - Email for morons. at November 12, 2022 02:27 PM (Bd6X8)

58 I 'picked' a couple more boxes of tumbleweeds to burn in the barrel. Its therapeutic stress relief rather than actual gardening or effective pasture maintenance but it does get me outside for a bit.

Posted by: PaleRider is simply irredeemable at November 12, 2022 02:27 PM (3cGpq)

59 I have used the warm day wisely to wash out my oyster float and the was enough growth to move up to the next larger mesh. Marine growth has been a mighty struggle as well as the local fledgling crab population. It is gardening of a sort.

Fueled up the boat and went for a spin, too. Dog waits for our return at th end of the pier.Cold and wind arrives tonight and tomorrow.

Tide is too high to winterize the pier waterline, so I'll have to wait until it is windy and cold.

Posted by: Jinx the Cat at November 12, 2022 02:29 PM (NNaTw)

60 I PULLED WEEDS TODAY ! IT REALLY HELPED OUT WITH THE STRESS ! IF YOU FEEL STRESSED OUT, PULL SOME WEEDS I'M TELLING YOU IT REALLY HELPS !

ALSO TAKE A LOT OF ADVIL AND DOGFISH 60 MINUTE IPA!

Posted by: jsg at November 12, 2022 02:29 PM (4ASgD)

61 Preparing a few plants for relocation to TN. Cutting back potted roses, a few dahlia tubers and some spearmint and peppermint roots. The locals tell me the Cumberland Plateau's microclimate is much different than what I am used to and the plants will show it.

Don't know what that means exactly but I guess I'll find out soon enough.

Posted by: Tonypete at November 12, 2022 02:30 PM (LsEU/)

62 Along with the tea-related bush I also got a Yaupon Holly. That is a North American native bush whose leaves can be used as a coffee substitute. Littlest Kidlet is concerned that I won't want to move after all, now that I've finally planted stuff *I* like at this house. I think it won't be a problem though.

Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at November 12, 2022 02:31 PM (nC+QA)

63 The best lawn and gardening tool I have is a hoe. I have motorized weed whackers and weed killer chemicals and all that other shit. But I love my razor sharp hoe. And my hoe loves my 4 1/2 inch grinder, bitches.

Posted by: Dr. Bone at November 12, 2022 02:31 PM (geVLo)

64 Heh jsg, yup even the tumbleweeds had my back whining a bit. Pulling weeds with real roots does indeed call for some ibuprofen and liquid muscle relaxant afterwards.

Posted by: PaleRider is simply irredeemable at November 12, 2022 02:32 PM (3cGpq)

65 Winter has decided to cheat this year. We had 8+ inches of snow on Nov 4th and then another 3 inches last Sunday night. Wednesday night it got down to 12 degrees . I am looking out my French doors at the backyard garden boxes that I have procrastinated on cleaning . Sometimes I need a good sharp kick in the ass.

Posted by: Sock Monkey * Ungovernable at November 12, 2022 02:19 PM (Lok2/)

lol I started to compose a reply in my head as I was reading, and then I saw the author. Yeah, we was robbed.

Posted by: Comrade flounder, Disinformation Demon at November 12, 2022 02:33 PM (yHsuS)

66 Miley. Email sent. Pretty pitiful. It does show the panels on their angle, but those wee little maters don't look right!
Ha! I have aerials of the garden in '19, and '20.
Evidently didn't fly it last two years.

Posted by: MkY at November 12, 2022 02:26 PM (cPGH3)

Got it!

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 02:34 PM (Mzdiz)

67 >>> 28 Miley, did you see what we came up with? We call it the KC Cascade (cause you gotta have a name). We angle those cattle panels, and just kinda shove the vines through it here and there. Keeps them off the ground, and makes it very easy to pick. No more tying them up, either. Not quite a 45 degree angle...maybe 60 degrees?

Posted by: MkY at November 12, 2022 01:51 PM (cPGH3)

Do you happen to have a photo or diagram? Or a photo on a previous garden thread? This sounds interesting. My email is in my nick.
Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 01:59 PM (Mzdiz)

I'd love to see that too, could we have a pic for the garden thread perhaps?

Posted by: Helena Handbasket at November 12, 2022 02:37 PM (llON8)

68 Oh dayyyumm, we're actually getting sleet right now. Sayonara flowers!

Posted by: All Hail Eris, Live! from the Dungeon of Discord at November 12, 2022 02:38 PM (Dc2NZ)

69 The stuff along the driveway was replaced with paving bricks. The bricks were more attractive looking.

Posted by: Blanco Basura - moronhorde.com - Email for morons. at November 12, 2022 02:27 PM (Bd6X

Lol. It wasn't hideous, but it was both toxic and boring. I'm actually getting more use out of it now that it's down than I ever got when it was alive. The leaves are part of the under-the-cardboard layer of the "instant beds" I made yesterday and I bent a bunch of the twigs into a hoop edging to hold the soil at the edges of the beds.

Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at November 12, 2022 02:38 PM (nC+QA)

70 lol I started to compose a reply in my head as I was reading, and then I saw the author. Yeah, we was robbed.
Posted by: Comrade flounder

I purposefully avoid making assumptions about morons but often fail in that attempt . I assumed that you would be the first to offer to oblige me . Next time I decide to let Comrade flounder jr. entertain me with a baseball game don't wonder why I am not showing you my backside.

Posted by: Sock Monkey * Ungovernable at November 12, 2022 02:39 PM (Lok2/)

71 Cutting grape vines and bittersweet. Very tonic.

Posted by: Ziba at November 12, 2022 02:40 PM (4h9M3)

72 Nice out, better get outside for a little.

Posted by: Skip at November 12, 2022 02:41 PM (xhxe8)

73 These guys are out for the year, but they have lots of varieties to choose from:
https://hoodrivergarlic.com

Posted by: Helena Handbasket at November 12, 2022 02:41 PM (llON8)

74 In the swamp today. Hori hori knife is at Lowes, $20, same as, well y'all know the rest.

Posted by: Eromero at November 12, 2022 02:41 PM (afWHS)

75 I PULLED WEEDS TODAY ! IT REALLY HELPED OUT WITH THE STRESS ! IF YOU FEEL STRESSED OUT, PULL SOME WEEDS I'M TELLING YOU IT REALLY HELPS !

ALSO TAKE A LOT OF ADVIL AND DOGFISH 60 MINUTE IPA!

Posted by: jsg at November 12, 2022 02:29 PM (4ASgD)

jsg Johnson is right! It's a fantastic stress reliever.

I can't take Advil because I'm allergic to NSAIDs but booze is good too. Sometimes I take a drink with me out in the garden in a sippy cup to keep dirt out of it.

Amazingly, weeding doesn't really bother my back. At 67, that's a blessing, because we have about 1000 feet of rows to care for. I also have a little garden stool that I use if it's more intensive weeding.

I have never been a hoer, since previous gardens were tiny compared to this.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 02:43 PM (Mzdiz)

76 It is cold today, so I knew I wouldn't have to deal with smoke from everyone burning everything. I bagged leaves in the front yard and part of the back yard before the cold weather got to the battery.

I took four bags and a huge branch to the yardwaste drop-off. (My G-d bless whoever invented hatchbacks that are easy to bungee-cord!) The older gentleman who runs the place warned me not to work in the yard too long "or you'll get soaked."

He must have had the inside scoop.

By the time I got back, the light snow had changed to the super-soaking slush. So that's it for today.

I don't want to be snotty to the newish neighbors behind me, but I'm seriously thinking of offering to buy the plastic chairs and table that have been sitting outside and tipped over for the last two years. I see them everyone morning and they're an eyesore.

Posted by: NaughtyPine at November 12, 2022 02:43 PM (/+bwe)

77 16 degrees out. Three inches of snow.
Just ordered my heirloom seeds for next year today.

Why wait?

Crazy. Can't wait for the season to end, now can't wait for it to begin again.

Grew a green tomato last year called green doctor, a large cherry about 1-2inches.

Fantastic. I saved the seeds and replanted this year. Didn't get a green doctor, must have got the parent or it crossed with something. It was a green striped medium sized tomato with good flavor but not as good as the original. Just found them again at Baker Creek! Yay!

Posted by: Derak at November 12, 2022 02:43 PM (EN6qh)

78 Almost 70 here in CT today but rest of week it drops down into the 40's with night time lows in the 20's.
Maybe a flake or two on Wednesday.

Posted by: Ziba at November 12, 2022 02:46 PM (4h9M3)

79 I'd love to see that too, could we have a pic for the garden thread perhaps?
Posted by: Helena Handbasket

Love to, Helena, except the only pic I can find is one where the tomatoes were just planted out. Looks silly! I had to offload my phone pics at the shop, and Ill see if I don't have a few showing the setup with large mater plants.

Posted by: MkY at November 12, 2022 02:47 PM (cPGH3)

80 And... I somehow managed not to post my previous comment.

I LOVE poppies! My mother had a few red and yellow like those in the photos. They managed to survive several years despite the expanding shade of trees. I have never seen them in my current area.

Snails, on the other hand, NO. Every time I see those big ones, I'm reminded of a creepy Canadian movie "A Zed and Two Naughts" that ends with snails. Too many snails.

Posted by: NaughtyPine at November 12, 2022 02:47 PM (/+bwe)

81 In the swamp today. Hori hori knife is at Lowes, $20, same as, well y'all know the rest.
Posted by: Eromero

You are really making Christmas shopping easier for me. Speaking of Mrs. Sock, she just kissed my head, told me she loved me and then insulted me. She's outside dismantling the grandkids trampoline for winter storage . If I was smart.........

Posted by: Sock Monkey * Ungovernable at November 12, 2022 02:48 PM (Lok2/)

82 Also,
We have a mama bear and her cub that have not hibernated yet.

The stupid yahoos down the street have not secured their dumpster and they've raided it three times now, busted in the lid and drug every thing out.

I'm afraid they now won't hibernate and will attack my chicken coop. Crap!

Poor bears. Think fish and game will have to get involved.

Posted by: Derak at November 12, 2022 02:48 PM (EN6qh)

83 Not absolutely everything I planted in the front beds was edible, or at least otherwise useful, but the vast majority is. I'm now working on making mixed edible flower and veggie beds in the back yard, but Inspector *just* got the lawn how he likes it (after decades of apartment living where he had no opportunity) and I'm trying to not cause him any more pain than can be helped. Especially since he's been very understanding about my attempts to turn Styrofoam coolers into worm farms and lacto-ferment All. The. Things.

Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at November 12, 2022 02:49 PM (nC+QA)

84 The American Legion Auxiliary in my hometown used to sell handmade poppies at Veterans Day. Nowadays they are made. In China. Sad.

Posted by: Aud at November 12, 2022 02:50 PM (uBywd)

85 Next time I decide to let Comrade flounder jr. entertain me with a baseball game don't wonder why I am not showing you my backside.

Posted by: Sock Monkey * Ungovernable at November 12, 2022 02:39 PM (Lok2/)

The younger dominated this year. Double play, great hitting, heads up fielding. But he is very focused, by comparison.

Older had a tougher time, but he pitched and he had tougher time hitting. He played with players with greater skill in a traveling team and was relegated to outfield, didn't get much action, and loses focus easier.

I can't wait to get them into the batting cages, get them some pitching, hitting, and catching (younger) instruction. I am already stoked for the next season.

Posted by: Comrade flounder, Disinformation Demon at November 12, 2022 02:52 PM (yHsuS)

86 I actually have my garden seeds in the fridge. I'll try putting them into flats. Don't have the garden ready but this is zone five. I have some morning glory seeds that will need the same treatment.

Posted by: Notsothoreau at November 12, 2022 02:53 PM (uz3Px)

87 When I was a kid you used to see guys selling paper poppies to benefits vets. Do they still do that anywhere?
----
Sure, every year on a corner for donations. I have poppies hanging everywhere.

Posted by: dartist at November 12, 2022 02:54 PM (9X/y4)

88 The 1st people built the house and planted an oleander border, all 330 ft of it.
The 2nd people broke the watering line and didn't fix it.
Now I have a line of oleander stocks with some that have survived with the infrequent desert rainfall.
I'm not looking forward to cutting out all the dead stocks.

I'm fixing the watering system and will plant jojoba as it is a native which, when established, doesn't require additional water.

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at November 12, 2022 02:56 PM (OEuiW)

89 Next spring I want to use T-posts and cattle panels for tomatoes. That will be a big help! Publius needs prodding to get the tractoring done in the spring. A lot depends on how wet it's been, or the tractor gets "marred" as he says.
Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 01:44 PM (Mzdiz)

I tried putting up tomato trellises made from Tposts, PVC pipe and sisal twine: PVC pipe is not rigid enough, the only one that did work was the one I used a sapling instead, and sisal twine is not sturdy enough to hold heavy tomato plants for the entire season.
I wound up using T posts and poly bailing twine for the pole beans and that went wonderful, I wound up canning and drying lots and lots of green beans.

I have to rethink for next year. I suspect the cattle panels will do you very good

Posted by: Kindltot at November 12, 2022 02:57 PM (xhaym)

90 Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at November 12, 2022 02:56 PM (OEuiW)

Sounds like an excellent plan. Particularly since jojoba has actual use.

Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at November 12, 2022 02:58 PM (nC+QA)

91 End of pawpaw season here at Mr sinmi's (Marc Boone's) orchard of 300 trees. Two Detroit ladies stopped by yesterday and found some under the trees. Today it is snowing in western Washtenaw County, Michigan. Definitely done for 2022.

Posted by: sinmi at November 12, 2022 02:59 PM (DhR3s)

92 I can't wait to get them into the batting cages, get them some pitching, hitting, and catching (younger) instruction. I am already stoked for the next season.
Posted by: Comrade flounder

I don't remember which one entertained me last summer. I do remember the discussion about my old catchers mitt. I have looked through all of the various places I have stuff stashed to no avail . Every time I peruse the thrift stores he comes to mind and I check the sports equipment . One of these days I will score

Posted by: Sock Monkey * Ungovernable at November 12, 2022 02:59 PM (Lok2/)

93 When I was a kid you used to see guys selling paper poppies to benefits vets. Do they still do that anywhere?
Posted by: All Hail Eris, Live! from the Dungeon of Discord at November 12, 2022 02:08 PM (Dc2NZ)

They sure do, here in Canada. Usually a tray of poppies by the till in a store, gas station, or bar, with cash box to drop a few coins into.

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at November 12, 2022 03:00 PM (5wjGg)

94 It's a shame ... no poppy sellers here at all. Missing them.

Was a big day for the Tomb of the Unknown folks yesterday. Did some volunteer work for them for years.

Posted by: SecondCityLurker at November 12, 2022 03:00 PM (MEbkQ)

95 I saw Patera from Appalachian Homestead use cattle panels for tomatoes. That looks like a much easier way to access the 'maters and they get more sun.

Posted by: All Hail Eris, Live! from the Dungeon of Discord at November 12, 2022 03:04 PM (Dc2NZ)

96 Well obviously I am not very smart . Since I have an XY brain and have plans to employ the " let's take a nap " routine this afternoon I am going to get off my ass. She's almost finished so my timing is good. Enjoy yourselves morons.

Posted by: Sock Monkey * Ungovernable at November 12, 2022 03:04 PM (Lok2/)

97 slugs,... butterflies,...
On a gardening thread.

What, no locusts?

Posted by: Gentlemen, this is junta manifest at November 12, 2022 03:05 PM (cDoVy)

98 jojoba's witnesses used to go door to door.

Posted by: Commissar of Plenty and Lysenko Solutions at November 12, 2022 03:05 PM (x00Ds)

99 I gave up canning peaches except for chunks, I can't seem to do the full halves like mom used to, and it doesn't seem important any more.
Mom used to send me out to the local u-picks to bring back a couple of boxes full.

I do make peach jam, though. It is a good use of the small chunks, the cut off bruises and the skins. I cook them all down and run it through the food mill, and then boil and add sugar and pectin.
It tastes like summer in the winter, though sometimes the color can be off.

Posted by: Kindltot at November 12, 2022 03:05 PM (xhaym)

100 jojoba's witnesses used to go door to door.
Posted by: Commissar of Plenty and Lysenko Solutions at November 12, 2022 03:05 PM (x00Ds)

But they avoided the Moron ta-bernicles.

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at November 12, 2022 03:07 PM (5wjGg)

101 Sounds like an excellent plan. Particularly since jojoba has actual use.
Posted by: Polliwog

I agree. The BIL made a press this year and the oil looks and feels great.

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at November 12, 2022 03:09 PM (OEuiW)

102 Hey KT, my orange tree is finally producing its first orange. I'll send a picture when it starts changing color.

Posted by: 40 Miles North at November 12, 2022 03:09 PM (uWF4x)

103 jojoba's witnesses used to go door to door.
Posted by: Commissar of Plenty and Lysenko

An oily mess ensues.

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at November 12, 2022 03:09 PM (OEuiW)

104 You don't necessarily want the tomatoes to get the sun just the foliage, Sun can damage the fruit.

Posted by: KarlHungus at November 12, 2022 03:10 PM (y2l0K)

105 From Eromero:

This a Hori Hori garden knife, no really, a garden tool!
Yes it is. How many of you have one?

***

*raises hand*

Posted by: vmom stabby stabby stabby stabby stabamillion at November 12, 2022 03:11 PM (2xlV3)

106 Don's website is very impressive, BTW. (The poppies link above)

I just checked it out and it is filled with great posts. Many on botany. I think I know how I am spending my Sunday.

Posted by: Gentlemen, this is junta manifest at November 12, 2022 03:11 PM (cDoVy)

107 I gave up canning peaches except for chunks, I can't seem to do the full halves like mom used to, and it doesn't seem important any more.
Mom used to send me out to the local u-picks to bring back a couple of boxes full.

Posted by: Kindltot

The type of peach may be your problem. IIRC Cling peaches can be cut into halves but other types 'cling' to the pit.
(I may have this backwards!)

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at November 12, 2022 03:12 PM (OEuiW)

108 I've got 120 onion sets to plant, and a few shallots too. Can I just take a regular garlic bulb and plant the cloves?
Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 02:18 PM (Mzdiz)

If it is what you have, go ahead and plant them. Chances are they will grow.
You might go get garlic at the Farmers' market next year, just verify that it is grown locally instead of shipped in from a different region.

I am told that some garlic is specific to light and weather conditions, but we are lucky here because most of the garlic in the stores is from Central CA, and the growers there source their planting garlic cloves from growers around where I live. The ground in the Central Valley in CA is good for growing white garlic cloves and the stuff grown on our clay here is dingy.

Posted by: Kindltot at November 12, 2022 03:15 PM (xhaym)

109 Notsothoreau I was teasing you earlier about the box thing. I hope I didn't offend you.

Posted by: vmom stabby stabby stabby stabby stabamillion at November 12, 2022 03:15 PM (2xlV3)

110 Saw a few flakes falling earlier. Time for a big pot of chili. I have a few Anaheims from my garden in the freezer that I’ll use.

Posted by: Duke Lowell at November 12, 2022 03:17 PM (u73oe)

111 Major plans for next year's garden. Tractor being purchased, walked the lower few acres today to see what kind of work I'll have over the next few months prepping, plowing, tilling, planning and building irrigation lines, etc. We won't be 100% self sufficient but dang I'm gonna try for 99%.

Posted by: KarlHungus at November 12, 2022 03:17 PM (y2l0K)

112 I am planning on putting baggies of cherry and plum pits with dirt in the crisper drawer in the fridge again to see if I can get them to sprout by spring. I want some cherry trees and additional plum trees.

My wife has been surprisingly relaxed about putting bags of dirt and fruit wood for grafting in the fridge over night.

Posted by: Kindltot at November 12, 2022 03:17 PM (xhaym)

113 NOOD PETZZZ

Posted by: vmom stabby stabby stabby stabby stabamillion at November 12, 2022 03:21 PM (2xlV3)

114
The type of peach may be your problem. IIRC Cling peaches can be cut into halves but other types 'cling' to the pit.
(I may have this backwards!)
Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at November 12, 2022 03:12 PM (OEuiW)

Oh, I know. Cling free peaches are what I want to use, but it still feels like building a ship in a bottle.
I like canning pears and my yellow plums better, and the peach jam is to die for, anyways.

Posted by: Kindltot at November 12, 2022 03:21 PM (xhaym)

115 Cling peaches cling to the pit. Freestone do not.

Posted by: Jinx the Cat at November 12, 2022 03:22 PM (NNaTw)

116 What tractor are you looking at, Karl?

Posted by: Jinx the Cat at November 12, 2022 03:23 PM (NNaTw)

117 Kindltot at November 12, 2022 03:17 PM

The further they are from "wild", the more of a gamble fruit trees from seeds are. There are some strains of peach that can be grown from seed. Apricot - not so much. Just as an example.

Many Japanese plums are highly cross-bred. I don't know about cherries, but I would guess that sour cherries would be a better bet than sweet cherries.

Of course, you could always come up with something new and fabulous.

Posted by: KT at November 12, 2022 03:24 PM (rrtZS)

118 Cling peaches cling to the pit. Freestone do not.
Posted by: Jinx the Cat

Thank you. I kinda-sorta knew I had that backwards; but, didn't remember 'Freestone'.

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at November 12, 2022 03:24 PM (OEuiW)

119 My sister has a few stone fruit trees very near the Mexican border south of Sierra Vista. Quite productive bet the insect pests are the stuff of nightmares.

Posted by: Jinx the Cat at November 12, 2022 03:28 PM (NNaTw)

120 Kubota or new Holland, not a super compact, mid sized

Posted by: KarlHungus at November 12, 2022 03:30 PM (y2l0K)

121 Can I just take a regular garlic bulb and plant the cloves?
----
The garlic in the stores around here are softneck and are planted in the spring in warm areas. Hardneck is planted in the fall in cold areas. To make sure you are successful you should buy what they call seed garlic which is treated for disease. Plant the cloves and see what happens but the heads might be small.

Posted by: dartist at November 12, 2022 03:30 PM (9X/y4)

122 I have had two kubota so far, one small one large. No major complaints other than sometimes it feels as though the controls and fittings aren't sized for the American hand.

Good luck with your plans.

Posted by: Jinx the Cat at November 12, 2022 03:38 PM (NNaTw)

123 I don't know about the tractors, but I have a Kubota engine in my Bobcat (diesel) and two 3 cylinders as pony motors.
Indestructible.

Posted by: MkY at November 12, 2022 03:44 PM (cPGH3)

124 Not easily offended, vmom!

Posted by: Notsothoreau at November 12, 2022 03:44 PM (uz3Px)

125 91 End of pawpaw season here at Mr sinmi's (Marc Boone's) orchard of 300 trees. Two Detroit ladies stopped by yesterday and found some under the trees. Today it is snowing in western Washtenaw County, Michigan. Definitely done for 2022.
Posted by: sinmi at November 12, 2022 02:59 PM

I loved the pawpaws at the MiMoMe! The neighbor kiddos loved them and planted the seeds, but none grew.

Posted by: NaughtyPine at November 12, 2022 03:56 PM (/+bwe)

126 lacto-ferment All. The. Things.

Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at November 12, 2022 02:49 PM (nC+QA)

I'm thinking about that, but I'm seriously lazy.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 05:42 PM (Mzdiz)

127 nd sisal twine is not sturdy enough to hold heavy tomato plants for the entire season.
I wound up using T posts and poly bailing twine for the pole beans and that went wonderful, I wound up canning and drying lots and lots of green beans.

I have to rethink for next year. I suspect the cattle panels will do you very good

Posted by: Kindltot at November 12, 2022 02:57 PM (xhaym)

I use Publius' old tees, torn into strips, for tying up branches. Or old pillow cases/sheets.

The T-posts will be for a single 48 ft row. I'll have another row with cages and stakes.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 05:46 PM (Mzdiz)

128 I do make peach jam, though. It is a good use of the small chunks, the cut off bruises and the skins. I cook them all down and run it through the food mill, and then boil and add sugar and pectin.
It tastes like summer in the winter, though sometimes the color can be off.

Posted by: Kindltot at November 12, 2022 03:05 PM (xhaym)

We use Fruit Fresh, found in the canning section of the grocery store (or Amazon). Dissolve granules in water, and place the peach chunks in there after you blanch and peel the peaches. Then we prepared the syrup and warmed the peaches in that prior to canning. Kept the color well while canning and could help with this, too.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at November 12, 2022 10:33 PM (Mzdiz)

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