The Seedlings are in the House, Literally!

Just when we all thought we had turned the corner to spring, Mother Nature decided she doesn’t want to let go of winter quite yet.

Temperatures dropped down into the mid 20’s and we got about 1.5 inches of snow, although it didn’t really stick to any pavement type surfaces.

Because of the freezing temperatures, my seedlings that have been quite happy on the porch in their mini greenhouse needed to come inside or risk freeze damage. Quite unceremoniously, they get to spend the next couple of days on the kitchen table in the warmth of the house. Luckily no company coming over, but even if they did, they know me so they’d understand. Temperatures should be back up by midweek, although still below average. I’ll move them back outside when the danger of sub-freezing temperatures has passed. It’s probably a good thing I got the seeds started a little late.

The rhubarb is looking wonderful and will handle the snowfall just fine.

The Sedum “Autumn Joy” and Hens and Chicks that looked so good over the weekend, got a little buried last night. Hopefully, they will be ok with the additional moisture and freezing temperatures. Not too worried about the sedum, but the potted Hens and Chicks are less predictable.

Relaxing on the patio will have to wait for another day.

First Day of Spring in Chicago

As I came home from Northern Michigan on the first day of spring, it was clear I was heading south by the disappearance of snow and the warming temperatures. By the time I arrived home, my car thermometer had risen over 25° into the balmy 50’s. Of course, my yard oddly always has the most snow left out of anyone on the block, or for that matter, the last 100 miles of the drive.

But, there are definite signs of spring to be had.

The daffodils are popping their heads out!

The sedum looks healthy and colorful.

The White Oak is finally losing it’s leaves as buds begin to form.

Moss is bright green and plentiful on the north side of the house

I’m puzzled by the emergence of day lilies and thankful that the hostas have not followed suit. More cold, unseasonable weather is approaching and I’d hate to have too much frost damage.

I’ve also noticed the House Finches and Robins have started to return, although they’ve been very shy around the camera. This time of year, I love wandering about the yard seeing what’s new. Every day brings a change somewhere. It is pretty muddy, so too early to really get much spring clean up done. Are you seeing signs of spring in your yard?

Bu then, as a reminder of how far behind we are, here’s a shot from last year on the same day! Soon, I keep thinking.

First Day of Spring in Northern Michigan

Happy First Day of Spring! Ok, a little late, but so is spring this year so I thought it was fine to still say it.

I spent the last few days up in Northern Michigan with my mom where there are very few signs of spring yet. The sun is definitely a bit brighter in the sky and the birds are chirping a bit earlier in the morning, but it is still pretty cold and there is still a lot of snow that needs to melt before any plants can start to grow. The lakes in the area are still completely frozen over. No ice-fishing huts anymore, but the ice is still thick enough for a pick-up truck to go speeding across the lake while we were there. Maybe their winter short cut across town?

winter

Not a very inviting place to sit today!

Even without the signs of spring outside, there were plenty in the stores. The farm and feed stores are all ready to get going, so of course I had to pick up a few items I “needed”.

My husband is very glad I did not come home with one of these… although mostly I didn’t since I don’t think our zoning allows for raising farm animals in our backyards. They sure were cute and I’m wishing I could have farm fresh eggs every morning.

On the way back home, I stopped to visit a fairly new, unique specialty market, the Willow Mercantile in Cadillac, MI. Whether you’re visiting the Cadillac area or passing through on your way further north, it’s worth a stop. You can even mail order your “up-north” favorites from them.

They offer their own line of locally made preserves, salsas, butters and jarred vegetables, specialty olive oils and vinegars, locally grown vegetables and farm fresh meats, interesting treats from around the world, a huge selection of local MI craft beers and an extensive wine inventory. Everything a specialty food shopper would want! Then throw in some kitchen essentials and a nursery, and you have one fun place to visit and shop.

Just some of what I came home with.

I’m back home where temperatures are a bit warmer (50’s woohoo) and I’ll have some signs of spring in Chicago in tomorrow’s post.

Finally Something’s Blooming

Finally it seems like spring has arrived, but much later than last year.

Using Spring Break as my date marker, it’s usually still pretty drab for another week, so this is pretty normal. The daffodils are about 2 inches high, the daylilys and hostas are poking their leaves out and the chives are greening up. Actually, the daylilys and hostas poked up back during a warm spell in December, only to get shocked by the cold weather that followed. They seem to do that every year and I used to worry, but it always seems to turn out just fine.

Just for fun and cheeriness, when it is this drab time of year, I visit Michaels and find something bright to add some color.

Tag: Spring

The Seedlings are in the House, Literally!

First Day of Spring in Chicago

First Day of Spring in Northern Michigan

Finally Something’s Blooming

stephigardens