Planting and Pruning

One of the sales areas at Anna's Garden in Russell Springs, KY.

J. decided he needed a break from flooring for a few hours yesterday, so we headed to Russell Springs to buy perennials for my flower border.  My work mates and friends at the quilt shop in Wyoming had presented me with a card and gift of money designated for my new garden.  Needless to say, I spent that and then some!

J. wandered about in the vegetable hot house while I chose my flowers.  He couldn't resist bringing home 6 tomato plants even though it is still a bit possible for some cold weather. I was pleased to note that in addition to the standard tomato varieties some heirloom plants such as "Brandywine" are available.  Another year I will contrive to start my own tomatoes, peppers and melons---there are so many delicious things to grow which aren't available in garden centers.

The plants were all healthy and vigorous. I was a bit disappointed that only the most common perennials were offered, but they will create a good framework for the garden.

It was nearly dark last evening when I noticed that the clemetis had opened its buds. Not having grown one in New England I didn't know when to anticipate bloom. The flowers are creamy white with delicate green veining. More have opened since I took the photo this morning. The existing  trellis is rather makeshift, but it works and there is considerable new growth which needs to be gently tied up and encouraged to run up the wire.

I spent several hours last evening pruning and again this afternoon. Honeysuckle vine has nearly strangled everything it can get at. I have clipped, pulled, unwound and unraveled it from the nandina, from the spicey flowering shrubs and from a shrub whose name I don't yet know.  I read up on the proper pruning of nandina, and fear that I rather hacked at it, but it was desparately out of bounds.

I came in at teatime and collapsed with a favorite old English novel, struggled up to make a sort of supper and then went out in the dusk to gather my branches and bits and drag them to the burn area.

I used the heavy long-handled loppers, working above my head a good deal of the time and am definitely ready for bed.

The kitchen cabinetry and range are to be delivered tomorrow. The next few days should see a bedlam of boxes and displaced items.

I can't tear off the old kitchen wallpaper and finish applying the fresh pale yellow paint, until the old cabinets have been pulled out. J. can't put down the dining area floor until the new kitchen cabinets have found their rightful places.

J. tore up the ancient linoleum in the old laundry area this morning. The particle board beneath  was as disgusting as expected and will have to be replaced with fresh OSB.

He worked at the flooring for awhile, then retreated to the garden to mulch his little fruit trees and berry canes.

We are making progress even as we make messes.

All comments from the cheering section are greatly appreciated!