Saturday Gardening, Puttering and Adventure Thread, April 15

Saturday Greetings! Above, a lovely camellia from a Friend of the Blog.

Here, I think spring has started. Everyone is worried about how fast it will heat up, and whether the flood channels will be able to contain the runoff. So far, no blast furnace days.

How are things going outdoors where you are?

Edible Gardening/Putting Things By

First little grape clusters on vine just planted over the winter. I don't know what variety they are but I think they are eating grapes. Nan in AZ

They look kind of artistic, I think.

Some more crabapple blossoms that made it through the big wind storm intact. Then figs on the little tree we are espalier to the steel grid .

Nice plant supports! Now to protect those precious figs as they ripen!

Weed of the Week

Not a bad one this time. Check to see if it smells like pineapple before making tea.
Some of its relatives are also edible.

Who knows this plant? It grows wild near our farm. pic.twitter.com/0q9Lhpk5zN
— Westside Farmer 🦅 (@JoeDelBosque) April 3, 2023

Garden Art, Puttering

Hey KT,
Spring has sprung here in AZ and in fact almost jumped right into summer. High 80's here already. We got a few more whimsies for the garden. The snake came from a welder's estate sale. I am growing garlic chives out of Tommy Chong's head and we found a zen frog.
I have a few more things to plant but have gotten the majority of it done. Redoing a garden area with some 15 gallon grow bags. I didn't want to try them before because all the ones I found were black which doesn't do well in the desert. But I found these and decided to give it a try. The plants aren't supposed to get root bound because when they grow through the bag they get "air pruned". They were pretty inexpensive as well, 5 for 20 dollars. Cheap enough to warrant the experiment. Has anyone else tried grow bags in Arizona?
I know we have a few of the horde from around these parts. I use vermiculite and peat moss in my soil so I am hoping they will still retain enough moisture, and the area that I am using them isn't in full sun. I will let you know how it goes.
WeeKreekFarmGirl

Fun art. And thanks for the updates and tips!

More Puttering

This guy made his own wedge plow to help clear the snow out of his garden in Idaho! How smart! #IDwx pic.twitter.com/OhXGF8JzK5
— WeatherNation (@WeatherNation) April 9, 2023

Gardens of The Horde

Hi KT,
Two plants, one white and one purple. There are a few white flowers, but the purple is blooming like crazy! 2 dozen flowers that just keep getting bigger.
Love the garden thread!
Miley

Lovely.

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? Gardening, Puttering and Adventure Thread, Easter Weekend

Any thoughts or questions?

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 01:20 PM

Comments

(Jump to bottom of comments)

1 Good afternoon Greenthumbs

Posted by: Skip at April 15, 2023 01:32 PM (xhxe8)

2 With all the rain in San Diego the last three months, my backyard is a jungle. Front yard not much better (half mowed it yesterday; worried I'd throw out my back again). Because of San Diego's water restrictions, front law is weeds. Pretty, pretty weeds all abloom in yellow and purples...till I chop them up with the mower.

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at April 15, 2023 01:33 PM (ynpvh)

3 Like the garden gnomes, have 2 myself
Ickibod and Rumpole

Posted by: Skip at April 15, 2023 01:34 PM (xhxe8)

4 ...my trusty ~~old~~ ancient mower. Electric with NO Safety features on it. Push a button, turns on, can walk away from it while running. Was left in the garage when I bought the house several decades ago. I did add a basket to catch the clippings.

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at April 15, 2023 01:36 PM (ynpvh)

5 hiya

Posted by: JT at April 15, 2023 01:36 PM (T4tVD)

6 Sawed down a carob tree Thursday that was growing too darned close to the house. I expect its roots will send up new shoots. Might cut those off, and try to propagate elsewhere in the yard.

Went on a yard sale tour this morning. Bought zilch.

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 15, 2023 01:38 PM (tkR6S)

7 It was in the 80s yesterday. It's 47 right now and I'm not sure it will make it to the high of 55 predicted. My neighbor is tackling my back yard, trimming the trees back and raking up the leaves. I still need to make up my garden beds, but the weather is not cooperating. I have some things in holding containers that are starting to grow, like rhubarb. Supposed to warm back up after the weekend, so I'll see if I can finally start to plant things.

Posted by: Notsothoreau at April 15, 2023 01:39 PM (u7leW)

8 I'm supposed to stay out of the sun according to the doctors. Makes gardening hard. That's my excuse and I'm sticking with it.

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at April 15, 2023 01:40 PM (ynpvh)

9 That's Clematis in thr last picture, isn't it? I've always wanted to grow it, but I went with passion flowers instead. That pic is wonderful.

Posted by: Tom Servo at April 15, 2023 01:41 PM (e7n2t)

10 7 It was in the 80s yesterday. It's 47 right now and I'm not sure it will make it to the high of 55 predicted. My neighbor is tackling my back yard, trimming the trees back and raking up the leaves. I still need to make up my garden beds, but the weather is not cooperating. I have some things in holding containers that are starting to grow, like rhubarb. Supposed to warm back up after the weekend, so I'll see if I can finally start to plant things.

Posted by: Notsothoreau at April 15, 2023 01:39 PM (u7leW)

A garden bed is one I do not wish to sleep in. But if I do, I've asked my wife to hit me a second time with a shovel before she buries me.

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at April 15, 2023 01:41 PM (ynpvh)

11 Hi there Greenies!

We've had temps in the 80's and lows in the 50's, but we're due for a week of lows in the 30's. This is God's way of teaching me patience. I am always champing at the bit in mid to late April, and were it not for this dip in temps I'd be planting too early. Because THIS year Michigan won't have early May ice storms! Not like all those other years!

Posted by: All Hail Eris at April 15, 2023 01:41 PM (O+3eK)

12 jim (in Kalifornia) at April 15, 2023 01:40 PM

Time to try some night gardening.

Posted by: KT at April 15, 2023 01:42 PM (rrtZS)

13
By conservative estimate the very mature cherry tree over my deck has 1,000,000 petals in bloom right now. Fortunately, with prevailing westerly winds only 250,000 will end up dropping on the deck in the next two weeks. Still worth the show.

I wonder how many more years I can expect out of the tree? It's looking kinda gnarly in its old age (~35 years).

Posted by: Divide by Zero at April 15, 2023 01:43 PM (enJYY)

14 Been a springish spring thus far in upstate SC. Wife has tomatoes and peppers ready to go as soon as overnight temps remain in 50s.

Posted by: BignJames at April 15, 2023 01:43 PM (AwYPR)

15 What type of figs in the pic? Growing up, we had Black Mission, White Kadota, Texas Everbearing.

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at April 15, 2023 01:44 PM (ynpvh)

16 I'm planting corn today, an heirloom variety "Buel." I soaked the seeds overnight to speed things up.

Tomatoes are still a month out, most likely, but we'll start some peas and beans. I have cabbage and broccoli plants in pots, awaiting the completion of the electric fence. Otherwise the deer will munch them up.

I haven't seen any at night for the past few weeks. We used to see them in the field every night on the way back from the folks' place. I wonder where they're hiding.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 01:44 PM (Mzdiz)

17 12 jim (in Kalifornia) at April 15, 2023 01:40 PM

Time to try some night gardening.

Posted by: KT at April 15, 2023 01:42 PM (rrtZS)

Night vision is becoming crappy at my age. Also my back is an issue. Hurt my back twice in the last month or two, once taking clothing out of the clothes dryer...

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at April 15, 2023 01:46 PM (ynpvh)

18 That's Clematis in thr last picture, isn't it? I've always wanted to grow it, but I went with passion flowers instead. That pic is wonderful.

Posted by: Tom Servo at April 15, 2023 01:41 PM (e7n2t)

Yes it is! I had them in 12" pots last year, but this new place gets morning sun only, and they love it! I have no idea what will happen to the shoots that outgrow the support.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 01:47 PM (Mzdiz)

19 I have a pretty good crop of Dandelions. Very easy to grow too.

Posted by: Martini Farmer at April 15, 2023 01:47 PM (Q4IgG)

20 19 I have a pretty good crop of Dandelions. Very easy to grow too.

Posted by: Martini Farmer at April 15, 2023 01:47 PM (Q4IgG)

Hey, we have that in common! Their leaves make a great salad.

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at April 15, 2023 01:48 PM (ynpvh)

21 Lots blooming here, a lilac has opened up.
But so is my hot water heater so need to go get another one

Posted by: Skip at April 15, 2023 01:52 PM (xhxe8)

22 I haven't seen any at night for the past few weeks. We used to see them in the field every night on the way back from the folks' place. I wonder where they're hiding.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 01:44 PM

There is enough tasty new growth stuff for them to eat in the woods that deer do not need to come close to humans at this time of year.

Posted by: Mister Scott (Formerly GWS) at April 15, 2023 01:52 PM (ncXxy)

23 Such lovely spring days this week! Hubs and I have lunched on the veranda and now I must work up the gumption to get some indoors work done.

Posted by: Emmie at April 15, 2023 01:52 PM (Emce2)

24 Cost of water here is insane. Maybe do a fake lawn or desert-friendly landscape.

Posted by: jim (in Kalifornia) at April 15, 2023 01:52 PM (ynpvh)

25 Been a springish spring thus far in upstate SC. Wife has tomatoes and peppers ready to go as soon as overnight temps remain in 50s.

Posted by: BignJames at April 15, 2023 01:43 PM (AwYPR)

We're in Simpsonville, James, and Publius says that he usually looks at the 10-day forecast on his birthday (the 22nd) and decides if it's time for the peas and beans. Our last frost date is May 7, but of course it's usually just a matter of waiting out Easter. It's always cold on Easter, regardless of when it falls. That's what he says, anyway.

We're looking at a few nights with temps in the 40s in the next week. I'll bring my seedlings indoors for that.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 01:53 PM (Mzdiz)

26 We're dying to get outside and start, just that there's 3-4 feet of snow in the yard still...

Posted by: GEN Jack D. Ripper at April 15, 2023 01:55 PM (aD7sR)

27 There is enough tasty new growth stuff for them to eat in the woods that deer do not need to come close to humans at this time of year.

Posted by: Mister Scott (Formerly GWS) at April 15, 2023 01:52 PM (ncXxy)

Nonetheless, they will venture into a garden with tender little plants. And kick over what they don't want.

Fuckers. Excuse my French.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 01:56 PM (Mzdiz)

28 I think the birds must be "seeding" my garden. Last year, I found a mystery flower from the rudbeckia family that I didn't plant, and also a musk okra (a member of the same family as the hibiscus, and possessing a beautiful pale yellow hibiscus-like flower). Can't wait to see what they left me this year.

Posted by: Paco at April 15, 2023 01:58 PM (njExo)

29 Good morning greenthumbs and thanks for the thread KT.

I tried the hanging tomato bags when we lived in Tempe.
The tomatoes were 'stunted' (unless they were not the type listed when purchased).
It was hard to keep the soil moist as well.

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at April 15, 2023 01:58 PM (9cZbj)

30 We're dying to get outside and start, just that there's 3-4 feet of snow in the yard still...

Posted by: GEN Jack D. Ripper at April 15, 2023 01:55 PM (aD7sR)

Ugh, I know how that feels!

Speaking of which, I'm going to need grow lights in the future. I have a perfect setup, except the front porch filters out too much light in the LR window.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 01:58 PM (Mzdiz)

31 I like the raised bed chicken wire barriers. It looks like what I need for the raised bed that we inherited with this property.

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at April 15, 2023 01:59 PM (9cZbj)

32 Really nice clematis vine, incidentally. I've never had a great deal of luck with them, unfortunately.

Posted by: Paco at April 15, 2023 01:59 PM (njExo)

33 The tomatoes were 'stunted' (unless they were not the type listed when purchased).
It was hard to keep the soil moist as well.

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at April 15, 2023 01:58 PM (9cZbj)

I've found that to be the case with all hanging plants. Maybe try to set up a drip irrigation (bottle hanging upside down over the bag?) Even with the humidity here, things seem to dry out quickly.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 02:01 PM (Mzdiz)

34 I had a pair of Bald Eagles visit us this morning. I think a male and female. The females aren't "bald" are they?

Anyway, the male hung out for about 20 minutes until the wife came to drag his ass back home. Huge wingspans. Awesome looking raptors. Photos didn't do them justice.

Posted by: Martini Farmer at April 15, 2023 02:02 PM (Q4IgG)

35 I'm in the middle of pulling up a mature lantana plant from the front of my humble abode. The heavy rains caused it to grow out of control. It spilled over on to the sidewalk, pedestrians couldn't pass. It was mostly dead anyway.
What a pain to pull up. Tendrils everywhere. So I whacked at it with a hedge trimmer. Now it looks like the proverbial crown of thorns. Roots the size of my thumb.
I haven't decided what to plant after I get it out. Probably cacti (to keep the doggies away) with some succulents thrown in.

Posted by: gourmand du jour, a literal ray of sunshine at April 15, 2023 02:03 PM (jTmQV)

36 I've found that to be the case with all hanging plants.

Even with the humidity here, things seem to dry out quickly.
Posted by: Miley

With our summer temps I think the roots cook...
Maybe if the bags only get morning to noon sun.

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at April 15, 2023 02:03 PM (9cZbj)

37 We're in Simpsonville, James

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 01:53 PM (Mzdiz)

Scuffletown Rd? 417? We're neighbors, I'm in Woodruff.

Posted by: BignJames at April 15, 2023 02:05 PM (AwYPR)

38 With our summer temps I think the roots cook...
Maybe if the bags only get morning to noon sun.
Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at April 15, 2023 02:03 PM (9cZbj)

Make hanging baskets out of solar panels. That'll keep the Sun off them.

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 15, 2023 02:06 PM (tkR6S)

39 I like the raised bed chicken wire barriers. It looks like what I need for the raised bed that we inherited with this property.

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at April 15, 2023 01:59 PM (9cZbj)

I'm going to have to send in some photos of my brother's raised bed project. He built 3 12 foot by 4 foot containers, filled them with an excellent compost mix, and built hoop covers for 2 of them. Then he made archways between the beds for climbers.

Last but not least, he built a fence around everything to keep the deer out. Quite the project. Especially the gates, which he made out of bamboo and saplings.

We have a bamboo plantation on the other property. My brother is going to be the Professor. I know the way his creative mind works, and he'll be contemplating bamboo.

If only we had coconuts, he could build us a genny. Ha!

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 02:07 PM (Mzdiz)

40 Once I have eaten my bacon and eggs, I'm going to put my work duds on and tear up the floor in the en-suite bath to replace a rusted out cast iron drain pipe.

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 15, 2023 02:08 PM (tkR6S)

41 Scuffletown Rd? 417? We're neighbors, I'm in Woodruff.

Posted by: BignJames at April 15, 2023 02:05 PM (AwYPR)

Well then, meet me at Tractor Supply this week! I need cattle fencing for my tomatoes.

We live about a mile from the intersection of Scuffletown and the Carolina Springs golf course.

Seriously, we can have a microMoMee! See email in my nick and drop me a line.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 02:12 PM (Mzdiz)

42 Make hanging baskets out of solar panels. That'll keep the Sun off them.

Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at April 15, 2023 02:06 PM (tkR6S)

This is why I love AoS!

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 02:15 PM (Mzdiz)

43 Bamboo, hey there's a thought for my house plot.
Bamboo is terribly invasive, but I have a growing space that is about 1'x12' in front of a wall. It's surrounded by concrete.
Bamboo could work.

Posted by: gourmand du jour, a literal ray of sunshine at April 15, 2023 02:18 PM (jTmQV)

44 Bamboo could work.

Posted by: gourmand du jour, a literal ray of sunshine at April 15, 2023 02:18 PM (jTmQV)

Don't do it..don't.

Posted by: BignJames at April 15, 2023 02:24 PM (AwYPR)

45 There is enough tasty new growth stuff for them to eat in the woods that deer do not need to come close to humans at this time of year.

Posted by: Mister Scott (Formerly GWS) at April 15, 2023 01:52 PM (ncXxy)

Nonetheless, they will venture into a garden with tender little plants. And kick over what they don't want.

Fuckers. Excuse my French.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 01:56 PM

The feral hogs do that around me. One of the yards in the neighborhood was torn up the other night.

Posted by: Mister Scott (Formerly GWS) at April 15, 2023 02:24 PM (ncXxy)

46 I have Roma, Early Girl, and Purple Cherokee started in my raised planter. there are radish and green onion sprouts coming up. In a planter on my northern-facing deck, I have basil and thyme started. Here in the South, the herbs MUST have some shade during the day.

Posted by: Chatterbox Mouse at April 15, 2023 02:25 PM (5u1+1)

47 I saw a youtube vid by a guy who has become an expert on bamboo. It's fairly easy to control bamboo, you just need to keep up. Let the shoots grow, then cut them. It's exhausts the rhizomes or whatever they are.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 02:26 PM (Mzdiz)

48 Yeah, I talked myself out of it. The bamboo, I mean.
Even the idea of sharpening it into punji stakes...

Posted by: gourmand du jour, a literal ray of sunshine at April 15, 2023 02:26 PM (jTmQV)

49 The feral hogs do that around me. One of the yards in the neighborhood was torn up the other night.

Posted by: Mister Scott (Formerly GWS) at April 15, 2023 02:24 PM (ncXxy)

I'm very grateful that there are no feral hogs around here.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 02:27 PM (Mzdiz)

50 Electric fence. My sister had a problem with the deer on the Eastern shore of Virginia. An electric fence fixed that problem.

Posted by: Chatterbox Mouse at April 15, 2023 02:27 PM (5u1+1)

51 Yeah, I talked myself out of it. The bamboo, I mean.
Even the idea of sharpening it into punji stakes...

Posted by: gourmand du jour,

I was thinking about making some of those for the deer. Shish kabob!

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 02:28 PM (Mzdiz)

52 Electric fence. My sister had a problem with the deer on the Eastern shore of Virginia. An electric fence fixed that problem.

Posted by: Chatterbox Mouse at April 15, 2023 02:27 PM (5u1+1)

He's got to run the wire and do the ground pole. T-posts are already up.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 02:29 PM (Mzdiz)

53
This spring seems to me to be developing slowly. That's not a complaint, because I am better able to do weeding ahead of nuisance seeds' arrival dates.

Posted by: Krebs v Carnot: Epic Battle of the Cycling Stars (TM) at April 15, 2023 02:29 PM (pNxlR)

54 I was thinking about making some of those for the deer. Shish kabob!
Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 02:28 PM (Mzdiz)

Now there's a good idea! (Plots where to plant sharpened stakes)

Posted by: CN at April 15, 2023 02:29 PM (Zzbjj)

55 You still have to do fine screening for the small varmints.

Posted by: Chatterbox Mouse at April 15, 2023 02:32 PM (5u1+1)

56 The gooseberry plant that I thought succumbed to last summer's heat are alive and well! I am adding three new currant plants.

My damson plum is looking it will fruit this year. Many blossom spurs! This is exciting to me, I've been wanting a damson tree for years.

I filled five deck planters and will plant lettuces, arugula, and mustard greens after the rain.

Posted by: CN at April 15, 2023 02:33 PM (Zzbjj)

57 Weeds, ugh, they are all in bloom.
Drove the truck for 2 miles to heat up for an oil change.
Got back and now my eyes are watering and nose is complaining.
Allergies... sigh.

Posted by: AZ deplorable moron at April 15, 2023 02:34 PM (njUci)

58 In my sister's situation, the garden was right next to a standalone garage/workshop. Easy access to electricity.

Reminds me of the plea: "Daddy, what did we have before candles? Son, we had electricity."

Posted by: Chatterbox Mouse at April 15, 2023 02:34 PM (5u1+1)

59 I'm in central Iowa, zone 5, so too early to plant most things outside.

I do have tomatoes and peppers started in the basement under lights. Second week of May is usually when I plant the garden, depending on the weather any particular year.

Posted by: a.moron at April 15, 2023 02:35 PM (F6Xpw)

60 Sadly the only electric fence I could have around here would require me to grab the deer and collar them.

Posted by: CN at April 15, 2023 02:35 PM (Zzbjj)

61 Just don't whizz on the electric fence.

Posted by: Ren and Stimpy at April 15, 2023 02:37 PM (V6LRK)

62 Just don't whizz on the electric fence.

Or test it with your finger.

Posted by: Chatterbox Mouse at April 15, 2023 02:39 PM (5u1+1)

63 Rose by any other name.....

Posted by: Eromero at April 15, 2023 02:39 PM (z3WCn)

64 12 jim (in Kalifornia) at April 15, 2023 01:40 PM

Time to try some night gardening.

Posted by: KT at April 15, 2023 01:42 PM (rrtZS)

. . . but not with the Dean's daughter.

Posted by: a.moron at April 15, 2023 02:39 PM (F6Xpw)

65 Really nice clematis vine, incidentally. I've never had a great deal of luck with them, unfortunately.

Posted by: Paco at April 15, 2023 01:59 PM (njExo)

We had to literally dig chunks of concrete out of the clay-like soil by the back porch in order to plant those two clematis. They shaved the topsoil to pour the slab for the house and porches and garage.

You would never think they would thrive, but man, they took off even after we planted it in August. The lighting is perfect for them - they can't tolerate direct afternoon sun on the base of the plant.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 02:42 PM (Mzdiz)

66 Chatterbox Mouse @ 62-
So whizzing on your finger, THEN touching the electric fence is right out?

Posted by: Eromero at April 15, 2023 02:43 PM (z3WCn)

67 Just don't whizz on the electric fence.

Or test it with your finger.
Posted by: Chatterbox Mouse at April 15, 2023 02:39 PM (5u1+1)

Helped my uncle string a pasture when I was a kid...cuz sez "Grab the fence, see if it works."....I did, it did.

Posted by: BignJames at April 15, 2023 02:43 PM (AwYPR)

68 Just don't whizz on the electric fence.

Posted by: Ren and Stimpy at April 15, 2023 02:37 PM (V6LRK)

You're not a man if you haven't peed on an electric fence.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 02:44 PM (Mzdiz)

69 53
This spring seems to me to be developing slowly. That's not a complaint, because I am better able to do weeding ahead of nuisance seeds' arrival dates.
Posted by: Krebs v Carnot: Epic Battle of the

I agree, I don't want to complain about the rain either. we are so behind on weed abatement. We have a ton of stinging nettle, foxtails and other thorny weeds I don't know the name of but I'm not pulling them without welders gloves.

Posted by: CaliGirl at April 15, 2023 02:44 PM (QOU0Y)

70
You're not a man if you haven't peed on an electric fence.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 02:44 PM

You may not qualify as a man after you've peed on an electric fence.

Posted by: Divide by Zero at April 15, 2023 02:46 PM (enJYY)

71 I wish we had stinging nettle. So nutritious and mineral rich. But they are a pain.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 02:46 PM (Mzdiz)

72 You may not qualify as a man after you've peed on an electric fence.

Posted by: Divide by Zero at April 15, 2023 02:46 PM (enJYY)

I think all my men peed on an electric fence, if they had access to one. Boys will be boys.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 02:47 PM (Mzdiz)

73 34 I had a pair of Bald Eagles visit us this morning. I think a male and female. The females aren't "bald" are they?

Anyway, the male hung out for about 20 minutes until the wife came to drag his ass back home. Huge wingspans. Awesome looking raptors. Photos didn't do them justice.
Posted by: Martini Farmer at April 15, 2023 02:02

That is so cool!, I've been watching the finches build their nests and I thought that was interesting. The eagles would be so cool to see.

Posted by: CaliGirl at April 15, 2023 02:48 PM (QOU0Y)

74 I used to keep up with an eagle cam in PA. They are very impressive.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 02:50 PM (Mzdiz)

75 A bird has built a nest on the drainpipe under the eaves next to the back porch. It's quite a construction, and the cats are fascinated.

Publius said, "She freaks out when I come out here to pee." I suggested that he pee elsewhere.

NOT on the electric fence.

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 02:52 PM (Mzdiz)

76 We had to literally dig chunks of concrete out of the clay-like soil by the back porch in order to plant those two clematis. - Mike, okravangelist

I had a similar problem when we lived in Henrico County, just outside of Richmond. We had a 4-5 ft. strip of bare soil that formed the perimeter of our back yard, lots of clay, and whenever I went to dig in it, my pick was catching on pieces of concrete, and also asphalt. I swear, I think there must have been an old road under part of the backyard.

I planted a clematis vine on the side of our current house in Southport, NC. It gets morning sun, but is spared the hot afternoon blaze. It looks like the same variety as in the photo. So far, so good.

Posted by: Paco at April 15, 2023 02:53 PM (njExo)

77 Just picked up this year's plants from Home Depot.

The kid wanted lavender, spinach, and bibb lettuce...so we're doing those with a yellow cherry tomato, cubanelle pepper, italian parsley, sweet basil, english thyme, and rosemary.

Should be a fun summer, and hopefully as productive as last year's red cherry tomato explosion.

And of course, we still have our never die mint. I actually have a whole bag already harvested in the fridge, since we pulled all of it out save one plant before planting...

Posted by: Nova Local at April 15, 2023 02:57 PM (exHjb)

78 It is just getting nice enough for the grass to start getting tall, but not dry enough to do anything. My two rows of potatoes are starting to peek up out of the ridges, but I am glad I decided to plant them in ridges because with the rain we had, the ditches between the rows turned into moats.

I went out and worked over the area I want to plant to corn with the broad-fork, and hopefully that will let the soil dry faster to let me till. The rest of the garden gets to wait until I catch my breath.
My next task is to pick over the plum pits in baggies in the fridge to see if any more had sprouted, and get them into pots

I read a stub of a diary my mom had written and it was from the month of June in 1967, where she mentions just getting the garden tilled and planted, with even more carrots planned. I suppose getting antsy to plant in April might be premature.

Posted by: Kindltot at April 15, 2023 02:58 PM (xhaym)

79 You're not a man if you haven't peed on an electric fence.

Did you see the lightning going up?

Posted by: Chatterbox Mouse at April 15, 2023 02:59 PM (5u1+1)

80 I think the mystery plant is what we called Pineapple weed, matricaria matricarioidies, or some sort of chamomile.

Posted by: Kindltot at April 15, 2023 03:08 PM (xhaym)

81 71 I wish we had stinging nettle. So nutritious and mineral rich. But they are a pain.
Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 02:46 PM (Mzdiz)

The one I planted in a pot didn't survive the winter. I'm afraid to put it in the ground. I hear they tend to be imperialist and I want other plants to stand a chance in my yard.

Posted by: Emmie at April 15, 2023 03:09 PM (Emce2)

82 Got a climbing rose, oakleaf hydrangea and something else whose name I forgot into the ground today. I am beat.

Six inches (max) of soil and then bedrock. Ugh.

Posted by: Tonypete at April 15, 2023 03:12 PM (qoGsy)

83 Hey AZ deplorable, if I didn't put up the chicken wire enclosure, as soon as things would sprout the birds would fling the seedlings far and wide. Saved me a lot of grief. I will send the set up of the grow bags when I get them in. Hopefully where they are at they will be alright.

Posted by: Weekreekfarmgirl at April 15, 2023 03:13 PM (7CN/t)

84 My wife has two clematis vines that share a spot. There's a wire wrapped 4X4 for them to climb. Two different shades of purple. One is solid, the other variegated. Bloom pretty much all summer.

Posted by: Martini Farmer at April 15, 2023 03:15 PM (Q4IgG)

85 Oh, and my daughter has now told me - apparently lemon balm is like mint b/c everything we did to kill it last year - it's already back and growing well in our backyard. Thankfully, in a pot...

We're thinking lavender and lemon balm pound cake this summer, to come up with something to do with both besides tea...

Posted by: Nova Local at April 15, 2023 03:18 PM (exHjb)

86 I have a couple of clematis vines that the previous owner put in. They are already over six feet tall but I'm a bit worried about their placement. They get full sun almost all day. Clearly, they are thriving but should I try to shade their feet a bit? The summer sun will be a scorcher.

Posted by: Tonypete at April 15, 2023 03:19 PM (qoGsy)

87 My owl is in her nest and one of the eggs hatched on April fools day. The other egg had a hole in it but it never hatched.
My internet was not working well/completely out during the time the eggs were hatching and I was having a fit. I lost about 5 days and I don't know what the mom did with the other baby/egg. I'm sure she probably ate it and I'm glad I didn't see that.
I will send in a video and hopefully KT can post it. It's fascinating.

Posted by: CaliGirl at April 15, 2023 03:19 PM (QOU0Y)

88 Lemon Verbena is the stuff to grow. It's got a wonderful fragrance. It is sensitive to frost though.

Posted by: Notsothoreau at April 15, 2023 03:20 PM (u7leW)

89 No Pet Thread ?

Posted by: JT at April 15, 2023 03:24 PM (T4tVD)

90 I would shade their feet somehow. Be creative!

Maybe a gnome

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 03:26 PM (Mzdiz)

91 My crepe myrtle is showing the first small buds. It got so much water this winter I'm expecting great things from it over the summer.

Posted by: Cicero (@cicero43) at April 15, 2023 03:27 PM (ixIgP)

92 Looking forward to your owl video, CaliGirl.

Now I'm off to plant corn. Later, folks!

Posted by: Miley, okravangelist at April 15, 2023 03:27 PM (Mzdiz)

93 Helpful hint, at Lowes don't get any warranty as it probably won't work anyway due to fine print

Posted by: Skip at April 15, 2023 03:28 PM (xhxe8)

94 Helpful hint, at Lowes don't get any warranty as it probably won't work anyway due to fine print
Posted by: Skip at April 15, 2023

Izzat what happened to The Pet Thread ?

Posted by: JT at April 15, 2023 03:32 PM (T4tVD)

95 Thundering pretty good out thar....

Posted by: JT at April 15, 2023 03:33 PM (T4tVD)

96 From Boise area, morning report: Lows 32 to 55 F, highs 48 to 81. Must be spring! We've seen daffodils and forsythia in bloom in the area, but only one flowering tree - there are many near city hall, and the big grocery plaza, so I'm looking forward to those.

Leaf disposal got delayed due to garden debris removal. Crocus all flopped, hyacinths at peak, just found 2 tulip buds behind the kitchen.

All indoor starts looking good. Some tomatoes got up-potted, as did the rosemary I bought last week.

I planted potatoes (3 russet, 7 fingerling) in 10 bags; husband built drip irrigation system for them. I transplanted some chives to where they will hopefully not take over the planet. I planted 80 onions as a crop, 10 for green onions, still a few sets left over. I dug up the strawberry ziggurat area where carrots and strawberries will go.

We moved more chunks of sod, out of the planned new flower bed, and into low/bare spots in the lawn. I also moved a section of lily of the valley. 16 solar panels installed on the shed roof this week! No battery backup (uneconomic at this time) but they'll lower the AC bills.
(part 1 - more later)

Posted by: Pat* at April 15, 2023 03:34 PM (9vW5k)

97 Raining pretty good out thar now....

Posted by: JT at April 15, 2023 03:38 PM (T4tVD)

98 Nova Loca, I pick and dry lemon balm for herbal tea. It is supposed to be calming but you couldn't prove it by me. I will drink it in the PM when coffee will keep me up late.
It is good in the winter and supposedly good for a number of things that no one can explain well to me.
It is supposed to be one of the plants that are good for your chickens though.

Posted by: Kindltot at April 15, 2023 03:41 PM (xhaym)

99 i used to use muddled lemon verbena leaves added to a cuba libre (coke, lime and rum) to make what I used to call a mercado libre.

Posted by: Kindltot at April 15, 2023 03:43 PM (xhaym)

100 Nothing planted. Still getting below freezing at night. Going to be a late spring.

Posted by: Infidel at April 15, 2023 03:47 PM (/0+YE)

101 From Boise area again: Looks like we ran out of energy in the afternoon. Husband dug up more sod from the future flower bed, the "bad" stuff with lilies of the valley mixed in, which will get piled up on the back property line. I scratched out the rows for 4 colors of carrots, and planted 8 seeds of each.

HOA irrigation is expected by the end of this coming week.

I'll be posting very late next Saturday - we'll be helping run a rifle training event the whole weekend. In fact, the 2 Saturdays after that, same thing - the last one in April and first one in May are both local 4-H events we're running.

Kindltot, good to see I'm not the only one who knows what a Cuba Libre is. I try to drink one every 4th of July.

Posted by: Pat* at April 15, 2023 05:40 PM (9vW5k)

102 Sadly the Cuba Libre is part and parcel with the propaganda and yellow journalism from the war of 1898 with Spain.

I reject the politics, but drink the Cuba Libre because I hope that every time I order one, Raul Castro and Miguel Díaz-Canel get a coppery taste in their mouths.

For fun, order a [T]sing[t]ao for Diaz-Canel as well

Posted by: Kindltot at April 15, 2023 06:05 PM (xhaym)

103 WeeKreekFarmGirl, people in the Phoenix Backyard Facebook page swear by the grow bags, but I didn't pay attention to the colors.

AZDeplorableMoron, with all the flowers now, no wonder. I'm amazed I'm not sneezing more. I go to Mexico often, and bring back meds for friends. One cannot buy Sudafed there, for dumb reasons. So I smuggle it south for a guy who works in a pharmacy. He just needs it now and then.

Posted by: Gordon Scott at April 15, 2023 06:07 PM (5VbO2)

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