Garden Trends

I just re-planted the herb containers this weekend and they have been basking in this warm weather we’ve been having. Although the containers looked great already it was necessary to take out the old soil as the herbs tend to have vast root systems that can take over and not allow much room for the new herbs to grow. I kept rocks at the bottom to allow for better drainage and put in the new potting soil. The old herbs that had survived the winter (thyme and curry) I kept and re-planted with the new ones (oregano, rosemary, african blue basil, garlic chives, chocolate mint and parsley). Although we face North I haven’t had a problem with the herbs growing, even though we only get partial morning and evening sun so I wouldn’t worry too much as long as you aren’t in full shade. As we use the herbs in our cooking we’ll post the recipes we use and let us know if you have some to share! Here are a couple pictures.

We have four eggs now in that little nest of ours and we’re just waiting to see when they’ll hatch.  We expect that it should be about 10 days or so. I don’t think the mother bird likes sharing the deck very much– we’ve been getting chirped at (or should I say scolded) lately.

I was on the hunt for African Blue basil and finally struck the jackpot this weekend. It has a fabulous flavor and is a beautiful purple which goes nicely against the green of most other herbs. I won’t put it outside yet as basil is quite sensitive to cool temperatures (unfortunately I learned that the hard way). I will keep it in a sunny location in the house until I can plant it outside in the herb containers. It sounds like it may even be warm enough by the end of the week. Just as a side note … do expect to have to buy a new plant next year.

I really enjoy gardening but like most of us we have a budget to keep within. Here are some things I do to keep the costs down.

• Invest in a few solid pieces that can last for years and keep them looking new by putting in the couple of hours to put on proper treatments etc.
• Instead of buying a trellis, make one with 1/4 inch wood of your choice (it can easily be done in one afternoon, depending on how many you are making).
• Perennials are a great way to save money in the long run, although often more expensive up front, they keep coming back year after year.
• Use containers from last year or ones that came with a plant you received as a gift. If you receive a new hanging basket, use last years hanging basket container as a planter to put on a table etc.
• Buy small plants earlier, keep them inside (until temperatures increase) and re-pot as necessary until they have reached the desired size.
• Buy seeds and grow (great to do with children). Although I must admit I have yet to go this route… maybe that will be something to try for next year!

The hanging basket situation has changed as the nest now has eggs! Makes for a gardening conundrum… guess we’ll just see how things go! Here is a picture of the eggs (we didn’t disturb anything this time… just moved a leaf).