Spring Teasing

It is so exciting to see the green tops of the spring bulbs protruding from the earth. A sure sign of spring coming.

Surprisingly, other spring signs include flowers blooming NOW! Some of the previously planted primroses have been developing leaves, buds, and flowers from rather dead looking plants. A subject of last week's Sunday Sketch.

The unusual looking Hellebore are blooming. I sketched and painted one of these flowers today which I will post for tomorrow's Sunday Sketches.



Did you know that there is a outdoor hearty version of the favorite indoor cyclamen? I planted these last year and they made it through the winter. They are a delightful addition to the early spring flowers which are such a joy after the doldrums of winter.

Check out these tiny gems:

Color YES!

It is that time of year when a splash of color in the yard instantly puts a smile on my face. I do not know about you, but the browns and grays of winter tend to become monotonous after awhile. Spring bulbs to the rescue!

Color speaks to the artist in me. With a couple of non-rainy days here in Washington the daffodils and anemones are showing their heads. I planted about 300 bulbs last spring and am rejoicing at their appearance.



I am learning patience. Last spring I planted English Daisies from seed and surprisingly I was able to distinguish the plants from weeds. All summer long I kept weeding around the plants. To my amazement, they are now flourishing and blooming!




Now the challenge is to keep this beautiful color from the slugs!

I have my defense.....a six pound jug of Sluggo.