Worms

Yippee! After days of bitter cold, we’ve had a glorious, sunny day. Even the birds in Mr. Prickles’ Magnolia tree are filled with song. What a perfect day to pull weeds.*

Of course, one thing leads to another so while I was at it I turned the compost barrel and flipped the compost in the bin. It’s all coming along nicely. I got in a good rake as well. My organizing side likes the order that comes with pulled weeds and raked needles. Being close to the earth is nice, too.

It was sad to see so much frost damage. Several of the ferns were hard hit, though ironically, the orange tree looks okay. I’m leaving the dwarf lemon under frost cloth for a few more days, though we’ve finally warmed up to a seasonal norm.

I looked in on the worms in the worm bin. Those wigglers are looking fat and happy. It guess it’s all those apple cores and organic broccoli heads. Tee-hee!

We’ve had a high of 57 F (13C) today with projections of 65 F (18C) by the weekend. I know it’s just a tease, but judging by all the buds breaking out, spring is on the way.

A. Leaf pile
B. Frost damage
C. Nesting material (laundry lint)
D. Peek-a-boo
E. Healthy orange tree

*with apologies, if you’ve read this far looking for wedding advice.

A couple of decent-sized storms moved through the area over the weekend, drenching communities up and down the state. I love being indoors listening to the rain and winds, but it was a bear for those who had to drive. We were lucky to be home. Several large trees went down in the storm, but I don’t think anyone was hurt.

Japanese Maple

Maple leaves in the fountain

Winds and rain stripped the remaining leaves from our Chinese Pistache but the more sheltered Maple continues its colorful show.

The vegetable beds and the surrounding barrier look none the worse for wear. In fact, the cauliflower crowns are forming. They looks so cute at this stage. Something’s been eating the outer leaves, though I couldn’t see any sign of the anonymous nibbler this morning. I’m hopeful that is the only damage.

Broccoli Plants

Cauliflower

It was disappointing to find so much standing water in the worm bin, and worried I drowned the lot of them. Fortunately, the layer of straw gave them a place to go so all is well. I got out the drill and put several holes in the bottom and sides so this doesn’t happen again.

Otherwise, the garden survived the storm and looks refreshed. Here is one last look: