Category: Outdoor Living

Azaleas, with their vibrant blooms, have a rich history that spans continents and cultures. Originating from Asia, azaleas have been cultivated for their beauty and symbolic meanings for over a thousand years, particularly in China, Japan, and Korea. In these regions, azaleas are not just plants but symbols of womanhood, elegance, and the changing seasons. The art of azalea cultivation was later adopted in Europe and North America, where enthusiasts developed over 10,000 different cultivars through selective breeding. Azaleas thrive in well-drained acidic soil and can bloom in a variety of climates, from the temperate to the subtropical. Their popularity is celebrated in numerous festivals worldwide, most notably in Japan and the southeastern United States, where the flowers’ blooming period heralds the arrival of spring and is a time of community gathering and celebration. The care for azaleas involves regular watering, fertilization, and pruning to maintain their stunning appearance and promote healthy growth. Despite their toxic nature, azaleas continue to be a cherished addition to gardens and landscapes, embodying a blend of natural beauty and human artistry. Cheers

Early spring offers a unique fly fishing experience, as the thawing waters and longer days awaken the aquatic life and, in turn, the fish. Utilizing flies such as midges, scuds, and leeches can be particularly effective during this season. Midges, often the first hatch of the year, provide a reliable food source for trout in colder waters. Scuds are also a staple in the diet of trout throughout the year and are especially important in early spring when other food sources are scarce. Leech patterns can be especially enticing as the larger meal option, triggering aggressive strikes from fish. It’s important to remember that water temperatures are still cold, so a slower presentation might be necessary to entice lethargic fish. Additionally, paying attention to water levels and clarity can guide your choice of fly size and color to increase visibility in various conditions. Cheers

I happened to stumble upon this Steller’s Jay while I was visiting Juneau Alaska. The Steller’s Jay, known scientifically as Cyanocitta stelleri, is a bird native to western North America and the mountains of Central America. It is closely related to the Blue Jay found in eastern North America and is distinguished by its striking blue and black plumage and a prominent crest on its head. This bird was first described by German naturalist Johann Friedrich Gmelin in 1788 and named after the explorer Georg Wilhelm Steller. The Steller’s Jay prefers coniferous and mixed mountain forests, ranging from southern Alaska through British Columbia and Alberta, and down the western side of the Rocky Mountains into Mexico. It has adapted well to urban environments, often spotted in backyards and parks, where it is known for its bold and inquisitive behavior.

Spring mulching is a critical practice for gardeners, offering a multitude of benefits that contribute to a healthy and aesthetically pleasing garden. By applying a layer of mulch, you can significantly reduce weed growth, as it blocks sunlight from reaching the soil and prevents weed seeds from germinating. This not only saves time and effort in garden maintenance but also promotes healthier growth among desired plants. Mulch acts as an insulator for the soil, protecting it from the temperature extremes of spring and creating a more stable environment for plant roots. Moreover, organic mulches like wood chips or compost break down over time, adding valuable nutrients and encouraging beneficial microbial activity in the soil. This process enhances soil structure and fertility, leading to robust plant growth and reduced susceptibility to diseases. Aesthetically, mulch can greatly improve the visual appeal of a garden, providing a neat, cohesive look that accentuates the beauty of the plants and contributes to the overall design of the outdoor space. Additionally, mulch helps to retain soil moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering and conserving water resources. It also prevents soil erosion, preserving soil integrity and preventing nutrient loss, especially in areas prone to heavy rains or on slopes. Incorporating mulching into your spring garden care routine can transform your garden into a thriving ecosystem, ready to burst with life as the season progresses. Cheers

Incorporating native plants such as Purple Coneflower, Black-Eyed Susan, and Milkweed into gardens is vital for supporting pollinator health. These species offer abundant nectar and pollen that cater to the local pollinators’ dietary needs. Establishing these and other native plants can significantly enhance pollinator-friendly habitats, ensuring the survival and proliferation of various bees, butterflies, and other vital pollinating species. Cheers

There’s no flower sweeter than our featured flower of the month Sweet William. Dianthus barbatus or Sweet William is native to several regions throughout Asia and Southern Europe. This full sun perennial is from the plant family Caryophyllaceae. I planted Sweet William 8 years ago and to my delight it still thrives in two of my flower beds. It is not only resilient but reliable. Did I mention that it’s drought tolerant? Sweet William comes in a multitude of colors and varieties. The blooms are capable of not only withstanding the heat of the day but thrive in difficult soil conditions. Plant this gem in well draining soil on the sunny side of your garden and enjoy! Cheers