A Terrific Thursday

Even though there was a threat of rain all day, it held off and we had a level of "high productivity." Our "Grumpies" spread compost, worked on carpentry projects, dug tree stumps and did many miscellaneous chores. This historic group of volunteers (primarily men) are named after the Grumpy Old Men (of movie fame) and were started at the inception of the garden. The group has grown to include over 25 guys that bring all sorts of talents (carpentry, electrical knowledge, engineering background, etc.) as well as a solid work ethic. I am truly amazed at how much this group accomplishes and how active these guys are at their age (no disrespect intended). I wouldn't want to arm wrestle any of these Grumpies and the gardens are fortunate to have their support and dedication. Many of them are also on our Board of Directors and serve in other volunteer capacities at the gardens.

Note more Chionodoxa forbesii in our front sign bed. This bulb has perennialized and has been there for my 10 years at the garden (I remember planting them). Lots of daffodils (Narcissus) blooming on time in the gardens. Years ago we planted over 300 varieties and probably have over 50,000 bulbs in the ground. Leaving the foliage to photosynthesize thru June is important although they can sure look sloppy in the landscape when the foliage flops and sprawls. Try mixing daffodils amongst other perennials that will emerge later and obscure the foliage. I'm often asked what the difference is between a daffodil and a jonquil. Narcissus encompasses all daffodils which are categorized into 13 divisions. Jonquils are just one of the divisions. I believe there are over 30,000 varieties of daffodils right now. We've planted them en masse (typically in groupings of 25 bulbs) and enjoy their contribution to the April garden. Summer teaser below with a monarch enjoying South American verbena (Verbena bonariensis). Coming soon!