Goat Willow

When I go outside in spring, I look for the signs of hope that are symbolic of the season.  The other day I saw an inspiring one–a Japanese cherry tree in full bloom.  Its bark had the deepening furrows that develop as trees age, much like human wrinkles.  The clouds of overhead blooms were lovely, … Read more

Looks Like Hops

People generally ignore trees.  This is because most of the time trees quietly present us with gifts like shade, cleaner air, erosion protection and beauty while asking little in return.  On the rare occasions when trees break the surface of our consciousness, we generally criticize them for shedding branches in storms, dropping leaves and/or litter … Read more

Smoke Bush

Those twentieth century poet/troubadours, John Lennon and Paul McCartney, captured a universal sentiment when they penned the words “I get by with a little help from my friends.”  Most gardeners would agree.  I depend on friends for inspiration and friendly criticism, not to mention timely donations of cuttings, perennial divisions and collected seeds. Last week … Read more