Gardening

[Nancy]

I was just wondering how many people here enjoy gardening. In the Spring and early Summer, my crafting seems to take a back seat to being outside in the yard. Years ago, I did have a vegetable garden, but now just a flower garden. I enjoy being out in the sunshine and watching the birds and butterflies. Then, in mid summer, when it is too hot to be out, I get back to my crafts.

[Mirriah C]

I love gardening! I am always anxious for the last frost to get over with. I have mostly flowers although this year I've decided to try getting a few containers and trying to grow some veggies that way. We live in town, and yard is on the small side so I will see how using the large containers go. I'm also learning more about the plants that attract the birds and butterflies, as well as figuring out things that provide some interest even in the winter time.

[Nancy]

I used some containers last year and plan to do some again this year. We also have lots of plants that attract birds, including hummingbirds, and butterflies. Let me know if you want some suggestions. I won't do vegetables, except maybe one tomato plant in a container, but I might try some herbs.

[Mirriah C]

If you have some suggestions I'm all ears! I have a few good things started, like a butterfly bush which is absolutely beautiful in the late summer. I also just planted a service berry and hawthorne tree last year to help attract the birds in the fall. I have also setup some bird feeders and a watering station for them. I'm not a huge veggie grower either but I just thought I'd give it a whirl this summer. If I can grow a couple tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers I'll have all I need! I've heard herbs are pretty easy to grow, but I've never tried. Have you ever grown them before?

[Nancy]

Mirriah, Sorry I have taken so long to reply. Some plants that I have found that attract birds and butterflies are:
Marigolds-I wouldn't have expected it but last year the butterflies really liked them.
Fuschia-I have found in hanging baskets. Butterflies and hummingbirds seem to like them.
On the larger side are Torch Lilies-the birds love them; Peonies for butterflies; butterfly bush for butterflies and hummingbirds
I hope these ideas help a little.

[Jennifer Grant]

Last year was the first year I ever successfully grew anything!! I was so excited you'd have thought I'd won the lottery! Hubby and family and I ended up spending every evening together in the back yard--far nicer than in front of the tv thats for sure! :0)

[Linda F.]

I love gardening! I have several large flower gardens. Unfortunately, I'm not as capable as I used to be, so I can't keep them up as well. DH is learning though! This year I will plant some container and perhaps build another raised bed.

[Heather]

I too enjoy gardening. I have to hold back at this house because we will be moving in a year or so and boy can it get expensive! But looks so pretty. Hey, I love it but can't say I am great at it. lol. I am wondering how to take the best care of a gardenia tree? TIA