Partial Seed Delivery Accomplished

I delivered about 50% of our seeds this morning to one of our growers. They'll start some of our herbs, about 200 varieties of annuals and will also start our globe amaranth (Gomphrena sp.) collection. Above is a picture of a globe amaranth collection at the West Madison Agricultural Station last year. Our collection will have 58 varieties of this popular bedding plant. This annual is great in fresh or dried arrangements. We are very fortunate to have cutting edge growers that feel challenged by new material and are supportive of our efforts to promote new/interesting plant material. Below is my favorite globe amaranth (Gomphrena haageana 'Strawberry Fields') that will be a big part of our red theme this year too.
Awesome turnout today with Marv and Terry working on various projects including figuring out how to utilize our "culvert planters" to best effect. Marianne worked on office projects while Larry continued to work on vehicle maintenance. Urban and Little Jerry did some pruning and Bill came in later this afternoon to help Jerry as well. We try to get all our significant pruning done by late March and are on track to deal with most of our target trees and shrubs. Vern, Bob A., Jim and Dave continued on their arch for the new arbor structure and Dick H. helped out as needed and went with Larry on a buying spree (motor oil, filters and other essentials). Rose was here to start painting our culvert planters and we're lucky to have her around as she is quite artistic and has great attention to detail. Many of you read these blogs and obviously don't know all these people that I mentioned but I can't say enough about not only the value of their contribution but the dedication and commitment they have to RBG.

I worked on some details today for our impending iris display (late May/early June) and the National Peony Society meeting here during that same time. Mark your calendars as spring is going to be colorful and fun around here and I think we're all ready for it! American cranberrybush viburnum (Viburnum trilobum) fruit below that the birds will get shortly. Don't forget to feed the birds and better yet if you can provide seed and nectar sources in your garden with plants. Gardening for wildlife (not deer or woodchucks) can be quite rewarding.