Getting Ready for Spring

On these sunshiny days of February, it’s hard to believe that we still have a month or more of winter ahead.  We resist the urge to put on our basking togs and drag out the Adirondack chairs. But we smile more and think about the flower seeds our cousin brought us from Austria.  “Soon!” I tell them.  “Soon!”

The fuchsias in the hanging baskets along our south porch are all taking their chances.  Every single one of them (17 plants in nine baskets) is showing new growth even as last year’s leaves are still hanging on.  “Winter is SO over!” they seem to say.  “Let’s get on with Spring and Summer!”

Time was when Nyel would take down each basket, trim back the old growth, water well, and hang each from a high beam in garage.  I lack the reach and the strength to do that last part, so for the last two seasons I’ve explained the problem to the plants and left them in place.  I’m quite sure they get it.

Old Growth and New

Same with the geraniums.  Most of them.  The ones on the porch — the potted ones — look to be thriving.  Those in the tubs out in the garden… not so much.  I’m trying to cheer them on now that it’s sunny and bright.  Here’s hoping.

As for Nyel and me…  We’ve managed well thus far, thanks to all the good thoughts and kind favors of our friends and relatives.  We are both finishing up old projects and planning new ones.

Doesn’t sunshine make a huge difference, though?