Thoughtful musings on various topics by interesting people at Blithewold

Spring Returns

The time is here! The daffodils are beginning to bloom. From ‘Little Gem’ to ‘Ice Follies’ to ‘King Alfred’ and ‘Rijnveld’s Early Sensation’, flowers are emerging all over the property. They are not alone, either. … Read more.

Rewarded Patience

The meeting of winter and spring is a humbling time of year. There are days when we go out confidently feeling that spring is here, but March reminds us “Not yet”. Winter’s fingers have not … Read more.

Winter Blooms

In late February, just as my spirit is beginning to get bogged down with ice and snow, hope appears very low to the ground. So low, in fact, that I usually have to lie on … Read more.

Garden Vision

We are here. Dead of winter. Everything looks brown and cold and lifeless. Or does it? The longer I garden, the more easily I can see the future garden in the plants at rest. It … Read more.

The Fullness of Fall

Autumn in the gardens here is an extra special time of year. Daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s have made working even more enjoyable than usual. The mild nighttime temperatures have extended the season … Read more.

October Inspiration

October in the garden is a glorious last hurrah. As I write this, the sun is shining outside and the breeze is blowing in through the Potting Shed door. It is a beautiful day. We’ve … Read more.

Pollinator Heaven

I have been drawn to the Pollinator Garden lately. I can’t pass by this area without walking over to get a closer look. We established this garden in the meadow five years ago. It allowed … Read more.

Heating Up

As we head into August, the heat waves drive many of us indoors. In the gardens, the heat spurs on an incredible season of growth (as long as we keep up with irrigating). As I … Read more.

Sizzle of Summer

The sizzle of summer has arrived, and so have a whole new batch of plants that are at their best when the heat and humidity is at its worst. Experiencing the grandeur of these heat-lovers … Read more.

Bee-Loved

Pollinator Week in the US always seems a little early for us here in the northeast. Traditionally celebrated the last full week of June, Pollinator Week is a time to remember how important pollinators (and … Read more.