tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11345468265670747852024-02-20T02:34:01.258-06:00New SproutI'm a new gardener trying to learn everything I can. I'm going to school for an AAS in Landscape and Horticulture. I've always been a nature nut but never had a green thumb. We'll see what I can sprout up.Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.comBlogger206125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-82218315735682289012009-05-31T09:22:00.002-05:002009-05-31T09:29:01.202-05:00A Daylily Show<center><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/?action=view¤t=img001.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="300" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img001.jpg" border="0" alt="Saucy Sue"></a><br />Saucy Sue</center><br />Just a few days ago my daylilies put on a good show. I got to see Saucy Sue for the first time and Ruffled Valentine. Not only did I get to see those but Saucy Sue had two buds and Raindrop had 3 blooms at the same time. Normally only one bloom per plant at a time.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/?action=view¤t=img007-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="300" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img007-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Saucy Sue"></a><br />Saucy Sue about to bloom<br /><br /><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/?action=view¤t=img005-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="300" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img005-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Ruffled Valentine"></a><br />Ruffled Valentine<br /><br /><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/?action=view¤t=img011-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="300" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img011-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Raindrop"></a><br />Raindrop<br /><br /><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/?action=view¤t=img004-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="300" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img004-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Nasturtium Scarlet Gleam"></a><br />Scarlet Gleam Nasturtium</center><br />The Scarlet Gleam Nasturtium had it's first bloom. I didn't take good care of my nasturtiums so they aren't as big as they should be. At least I got to see a bloom!Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-83896022204703409492009-05-27T21:08:00.002-05:002009-05-27T21:11:01.216-05:00Wordless Wednesday:: Jewels of Opar<Center><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/?action=view¤t=img169.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="300" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img169.jpg" border="0" alt="jewels of opar"></a><br />Jewels of Opar. Just obtained from the plant exchange at Festival of Flowers.</center>Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-77392581498385506112009-05-26T22:20:00.002-05:002009-05-26T23:04:46.868-05:00Daylily Season<center><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/?action=view¤t=img002-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="300" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img002-1.jpg" border="0" alt="daylily"></a></center><br />It's daylily season here at New Sprout. I'm so glad that this year I did go on vacation at this time. Last year I missed most of my daylily and did not get a great show out of them. This year it is different and it seems every daylily I have has a scape on it! So here is the show of daylilies. I think I finally got them figured out as to who is who. Now if only I marked the fan before the blooms are all gone.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/?action=view¤t=img003-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="300" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img003-2.jpg" border="0" alt="Raindrop"></a><br />Raindrop</center><br />A tiny daylily 2 inches in diameter that is beautiful yellow. So small but still so pretty.<br /><br /><center><<a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/?action=view¤t=img008-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="300" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img008-1.jpg" border="0" alt="abstract art"></a><br />Abstract Art</center><br />This year I know for sure this is Abstract Art. The changing colors from the front 3 petals and the back 3 petals are more apparent.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/?action=view¤t=img023-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="300" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img023-1.jpg" border="0" alt="daylily"></a><br />Common Daylily</center><br />What many call the common ditch daylily. I still like it and I can't complain as I got it and others in a daylily grab bag for $1.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/?action=view¤t=img176.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="300" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img176.jpg" border="0" alt="windsor castle"></a><br />Windsor Castle</center><br />Love this color!<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/?action=view¤t=img022-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="300" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img022-1.jpg" border="0" alt="sacred way"></a><br />Sacred Way</center><br />I don't think I saw this one last year. I'm not too sure that his is scared way as I can't find photos online of what Sacred Way looks like. From the description this is yet. It said light gold with pink midribs and small yellow throat. This is the only one that looks like it has a light gold with pink midribs. To me it's Sacred Way.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/?action=view¤t=img003-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="300" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img003-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Eruption"></a><br />Eruption</center><br />Lastly the one red daylily that has been blooming. I bought several other red daylilies but I don't think those have bloomed. They only have slight differences like a tad bit more purple and one more ruffly, etc. Out of all the red daylilies I bought eruption is the one that closely matches my bloom.Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-69406702544553145392009-05-24T23:59:00.007-05:002009-05-25T18:15:19.130-05:00The Creation of a Garden Bed<center><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/?action=view¤t=img178.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img178.jpg" border="0" alt="garden most mulch"></a></center><br />Finally I have a garden bed that is almost done. It only took a few months to get one done. Taking out the grass was the longest most boring and painful process. After taking out the grass it was easy.<br /><br />I purchased some herb mix soil from Fertile Garden Supply. I got to say I love that place as it has every mix of soil I could want and mulch too. The herb mix is made of compost, decayed bark, orange sand, and cedar flakes. It makes a nice airy mix with a touch of nutrients. I liked it out of all the other ones. Just straight compost was my initial want but they husband did not want poo in his then new truck.<br /><br />Planttone was added and plants were planted. Then off we went to get some mulch. This was a harder choice as I have never mulched anything in my life. I got double shredded cedar as others say it repels pests. If only it repelled dogs from going into the bed.<br /><br />The white plastic picket fence is not to my liking. It was bought because the dogs know no boundaries. They see new dirt and that mommy is digging so they think it is okay to go in there. It's easier for now to keep them out of it because they have small areas to sneak in from. I'll be getting some stone pavers to put in the place of the fence so it looks more...natural I guess. Hopefully they will still see the pavers sticking out of the ground as a boundary.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/?action=view¤t=img013-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img013-2.jpg" border="0" alt="container"></a></center><br />I potted up this container just a few days. This container is plastic or something like that and it was about $16 or something, so it was a real bargain. It makes a great focal point in that bed. In the container I planted a Tiffany rose, a balloon flower, and a lemon thyme. The Tiffany Rose was what I bought the container for, plus I like blue. The rose blooms pink and the other two plants I just added in because they needed to be potted up. Hopefully it grows and looks awesome.<br /><br />I'm very nervous about my bed because it's hard to plant things and think of how they will look in the future. I took into account leaf texture color and blue color. The leaf color was hard since everything was about the same shade of green. There are annuals in the bed so I will be able to put new thins in after they die. The grass that I am putting in the back is Panicum Cloud Nine. It's nice and airy so It should provide a nice background for the other plants and make them stand out more.<br /><br />Here is the progress of the bed.<br /><center><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/?action=view¤t=img021-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="200" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img021-1.jpg" border="0" alt="bed no mulch"></a><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/?action=view¤t=img032.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="200" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img032.jpg" border="0" alt="bed almost mulched"></a></center>Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-23306111380576166472009-04-19T17:45:00.002-05:002009-04-19T18:22:37.334-05:00Late Garden Bloggers Bloom DayIt's been a while since I have participated in Garden Bloggers Bloom Day. Thanks to Carol from <a href="http://maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/search/label/garden%20bloggers%20bloom%20day">May Dreams Gardens</a> for creating this wonderful event. Every 15th of the month garden bloggers are encouraged to take photos of their blooms. I actually did take these pictures on the 15th but haven't had any time to post them up. After doing this post I have homework to do. It's been long since I last posted but I just haven't had the time or even the want to continue with my blog. There are times I get so run down and tired of things I just have to take a break. I think I'm ready to come back again now that I have a yard that I'm trying to get going. No more balcony garden and I'm glad but frustrated too. All my plants are still in pots while I'm trying to rid of the massive amounts of fire ants and make beds.<br /><br />Here is what is blooming!<br /><center><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img026.jpg"><br />Earth Star</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img016.jpg"><br />Weeping Dwarf Crape Myrtle Sacramento</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img020.jpg"><br />Cocktail Vodka Begonia</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img012.jpg"><br />Red Spider Zinnia</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img002.jpg"><br />Red Pineapple Sage</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img021.jpg"><br />Vinca</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img010.jpg"><br />Stock</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img013.jpg"><br />Sweet William Pinocchio</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img011.jpg"><br />Petunias</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img007.jpg"><br />Laura Bush Petunia</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img019.jpg"><br />Statice</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img017.jpg"><br />Statice</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img018.jpg"><br />Mexican Heather</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img014.jpg"><br />Soapwort<img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img008.jpg"><br />Stock</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img009.jpg"><br />Stock</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img003.jpg"><br />Basil</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img006.jpg"><br />Salvia daghestanica/Dwarf Silver Leaf Sage</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img005.jpg"><br />Salvia daghestanica/Dwarf Silver Leaf Sage</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img004.jpg"><br />Graptopetalum/Ghost Plant</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img022.jpg"><br />Tomato Blooms</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img025.jpg"><br />Tomato Blooms</img><br /><img width="400" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/vanillalotus1/img023.jpg"><br />Bunny Tails Grass</img><br /></center>Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-42248755090199818202009-02-04T08:43:00.001-06:002009-02-04T08:44:45.127-06:00Wordless Wednesday: Puppy Posing<center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=Picture047.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/Picture047.jpg" border="0" alt="Tova"></a><br />Tova the Shiba Inu Puppy Posing with his rings</center>Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-40232318754544116082009-02-02T18:24:00.003-06:002009-02-02T18:34:16.946-06:00Spontaneous Garden Center Purchases<center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=Picture021.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/Picture021.jpg" border="0" alt="begonia"></a><br />Unknown Begonia</center><br /><br />A few days ago I had the urge to go my local garden centers to see if there were any begonias. I'm a begonia lover, specifically rex and angel wing begonias so far. I have plans in the future to become a collector or even start my own little business selling them and other things. Anyways, off I went to go see what the garden center was up. Lucky me found not 1 but 2 Begonias and few other things I couldn't resist.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=Picture023.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/Picture023.jpg" border="0" alt="begonia"></a><br />Unknown Begonia</center><br /><br />Sadly the begonias have no tags or names on them. I posted up on the Gardenweb Begonia forum to see if someone can ID them. I've looked online quickly but not found anything except maybe 'Fairy' that looks like the one above. Nothing for the one below has looked even similar.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=Picture024.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/Picture024.jpg" border="0" alt="begonia"></a><br />Unknown Begonia #2</center><br /><br />I looked around and found a few other things I just couldn't pass up.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=Picture027.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/Picture027.jpg" border="0" alt="Echeveria"></a><br />Echeveria?</center><br /><br />Here is an Echeveria I think that is fairly large, about 5inches in diameter. I loved the nice pink tone in the middle. I'm a sucker for echeverias or succulents that look like rosettes and have a pink blush to them.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=Picture028.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/Picture028.jpg" border="0" alt="Cryptanthus Red Star"></a><br />Cryptanthus Red Star</center><br /><br />Lastly I bought this Cryptanthus Red Star. Yet again no label. It took me a while to find it on the internet because all I knew was that it was related to the Bromeliad and I had seen them before. I just love it! It looks so mean and evil but it's so pretty with such a bright red coloring to it. I don't know why but I just love Bromeliads and little guys like this.<br /><br />Those were my purchases. Maybe someone out there knows the names of the Begonias and even the Echeveria perhaps.Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-50579681377552573832009-01-30T18:55:00.003-06:002009-01-30T19:13:19.254-06:00Surprise Blooms<center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=Picture007.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/Picture007.jpg" border="0" alt="bunny tails grass"></a><br />Bunny Tails Grass</center><br /><br />Another few things that happened while I was gone on my vacation to Portugal for 3 weeks were surprise blooms. Surprise blooms are blooms from plants that haven't bloomed and you never expected them to bloom because it's been FOREVER. Bunny Tails Grass and Stock I both grew from seeds...I forget when. Bunny Tails Grass was last year. Stock Tudor Tapestry was one of the first plants I planted so about the end of 2007.<br /><br /><Center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=Picture002.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/Picture002.jpg" border="0" alt="stock"></a><br />Stock Tudor Tapestry</center><br /><br />Now here they are fully starting to bloom. I'm beyond thrilled with the Bunny Tails Grass. This plant just pulls at my heart. Now the stock I have learned to hate. One because it took forever, it wilts real easily in the heat and is so not as drought tolerant as my other container plants. And the plant it's self just looks crappy. I'm sure they is 100% my fault because I have 4 plants in one 8inch pot and 2 plants in I think an 8inch pot also. It's crowded in there and all the leaves are gone from the bottom. <br /><br />It's nice to have some blooms finally. Things were looking dead and dull here but they are finally perking back up.Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-77384824707413948962009-01-28T18:28:00.002-06:002009-01-28T18:31:22.079-06:00Wordless Wednesday: Shibas Share<center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=Picture014.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/Picture014.jpg" border="0" alt="kasha and tova"></a><br />Kasha and Tova</center>Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-89101776951141128032009-01-26T10:59:00.002-06:002009-01-26T11:17:36.279-06:00When Sedum Attacks....<center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=Picture011.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/Picture011.jpg" border="0" alt="dragons blood sedum"></a><br />Dragons Blood Sedum</center><br /><br />While I was gone on my trip to Portugal to see my parents, something grew on my balcony. I had waited months for my Dragons Blood Sedum to spread in the little corner of the weeping dwarf crape myrtle sacramento. It did grow but it took me a few days to even notice because...<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=Picture010.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/Picture010.jpg" border="0" alt="variegated carpet sedum"></a><br />Variegated Carpet Sedum</center><br /><br />When I came back it was not the Dragons Blood Sedum that I initially noticed but the Variegated Sedum. When I had left this sedum had spread but it was about 6 pieces standing 3 inches tall. Now it's spread everywhere and looks gorgeous. These started out as 3 cuttings that I "stole" from my last employer after they did cuttings of pots before sending them to the stores. Those 3 turned into six which turned into this! 3 of them died because i put them indoors and they just didn't make it. 3 of them went to a lucky raffle winner at the school hort club. Now I have all these.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=Picture013.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/Picture013.jpg" border="0" alt="ivy sedum weeping crape myrtle"></a><br />Containers with Ivy, Sedums and Jovibarba</center><br /><br />Not only did I notice the Sedums but the IVY!!! I got this ivy as a little plantlet when I volunteered at the botanical gardens. We were ripping out some ivy that they no longer wanted under the palms. I took a tiny little one home with me. It hardly grew for a whole year. Yet when I come back this thing is taking over. It has now branched out behind the planter and infront of the planter. The initial leader is not about 4 feet long. I could not take an accurate photo but the leader in on the ground wrapped around some pots.<br /><br />Isn't it crazy how you wait for so long to see your plants grow and think you are doing something wrong. When really they just want to grow out of your sight.Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-75858701220201617002009-01-24T23:01:00.003-06:002009-01-24T23:16:10.185-06:00It's Seed Time!<center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=Picture063.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/Picture063.jpg" border="0" alt="Seeds Spring 09"></a><br />Seeds sown 1-23-09</center><br /><br />Finally I sowed some of my seeds. There are tons of seeds I bought for this year. What I planted is such a small portion of what I have. I'm regretting planting the different types that I did because I don't have the space to grow substantial amounts of all of them. Each type has 3 pots or less. Some pots will probably be too small in a short time. I'll see how it goes but it's fun to plant seeds anyways and I'll be happy if I get some nice basic plants to plant for my home when we start moving in April.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=Picture071.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/Picture071.jpg" border="0" alt="Seeds Spring 09"></a><br /></center><br /><br />Really I have no idea if most of these seeds will do well here. I'm so used to container gardening and being able to manipulate the soil and light to my liking. The balcony provides some shade so none of my plants get the full blazing hot killing sun that SA offers. Live and learn, I just can't resist buying seeds that might make it.<br /><br />There are 63 pots and 23 different plants:<br />Castor Oil Bean Zanzibarrensis Mix<br />Black-eyed Susan Vine 'Spanish Eyes'<br />Verbena Adonis Mango<br />Cosmos Daydream<br />Zinnia Red Spider<br />Profusion Apricot Zinnia<br />Nicotiana Domino Salmon Pink<br />Nicotiana Tinkerbell<br />Wizard Velvet Red Coleus<br />Palisandra Coleus<br />Bronze Fennel Smokey<br />Salvia viridis Blue Denim<br />Love Lies Bleeding<br />Cigar Plant Matchless<br />Osteospermum African Moon<br />Hyssop<br />Lavender English Dwarf Hidcote<br />Petunia Easy Wave Beachcombers Mix<br />Achillea Summer Pastels<br />Basil Dark Opal Purple<br />Coreopsis Sunray<br />Alternanthera Purple Knight<br />Nasturtium Scarlet GleamPriscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-39191737724957972092008-12-18T16:50:00.002-06:002008-12-18T17:08:59.026-06:00Made it to PortugalI'm here in Portugal visiting my parents. I thought I would never make it. This was the work traveling I have ever done but it was my own fault. I missed my first flight because I could have sworn it had said 8pm and not 8am. Anyways I noticed at 9am my mistake and was able to connect to my flight that left from boston to azores. Sadly my hubby had to pay 117 to get me there since Northwest cancelled all my flights because I missed that one. Everyone I landed I had problems. It was just never ending pain. I still have to figure out how to get home and if I'll be refunded at all. I still have my flight to boston but after that all my flights were cancelled. My first plane was delayed so it got there about 15 mins before my next one was scheduled to take off. It took forever for the plane to stop and when it did it was nowhere near a gate and we had to take a shuttle to get inside. I got inside and my next flight was delayed a bit an extra 10 mins but I was at gate E and my next one was at gate A. They said I wouldn't make it so they changed my flight to a later time (2 hours away). I thought I would try anyways. I made it only because it was delayed another 10 more minutes! Then when I got to boston my bags did not show because they had gone on the plane that was scheduled 2 hours later. This became a problem because I needed to check in and check in my bags and only had a 30 min time in between. I had to run from terminal A to terminal E to go check in and check what to do, then to go back and try to get my bags or tell them to send it to terminal a, they were there so i checked them in and made it in time. But i couldn't fix anything in texas because the airlines could not be contacted. When I got to boston they couldn't do anything so said for me to fix when i got to azores. I am pooped and have not gotten it fixed yet.<br /><br />My husband has been dealing with the house while I have been here doing all the bidding and paperwork. So I am excited so far everything has been going good. The inspector is scheduled for monday. I hope all goes okay and there isn't much of anything at all wrong.<br /><br />My coworkers had asked me to take photos of plants here and maybe bring some seeds of interesting things. Well I had told them I'm pretty sure they have basically all the same plants. I never notice before what plants were here but I was right. Practically all the same plants just way bigger because it does't get as cold here. Pampas grass, hibiscus, bougainvillea, hydrangeas, vincas, geraniums. But there is one plant everywhere that I have no idea what it is. I'm going to go search for it now but I don't think it sets seed. I'm pretty sure I can't take a plant on my trip back and it would probably die by the time I got back. My mother has a lot of house plants. Her ferns here are huge. The house is humid and it makes them grow like beasts. She has always been really good at growing ferns. Not myself. When I went to college and they moved here she gave me 2 ferns. Well they died soon but I think I neglected them too much. I'll be trying again when I get home since I only have a plumosa fern outside but no ferns inside just ivy, begonias, and succulents.Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-3833046519004008822008-12-15T20:03:00.001-06:002008-12-15T20:06:34.852-06:00I'm Alive Trust MeHi everyone. I'm sure you have all been worried about where I have been. I got busy with school and work in general. Finals were last week but I still have an online final to do. Sorry for not posting much, I have been so down about our apartment. My Husband and I have been in dire want of a home. I'll be leaving tomorrow to go visit my parents in Portugal and I'll be gone until January 7th.<br /><br />Good news, We are house hunting. We found a great home and will be starting tomorrow on the process of getting it. So soon I will have a yard to garden in. This home has some nice landscaping too with some what looked to me to be wonderful plants. I'm very excited and do hope we get the home. <br /><br />Every one have a great holiday season. I'll be back next year hopefully with a garden to plan for!Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-57799731324762280292008-10-21T16:50:00.003-05:002008-10-21T17:00:26.314-05:00Open Days San Antonio: The Fox Garden cont.-Orchid GreenhouseLike I mentioned in the last post, here is the rest of the Fox Garden from the Open Days Tour on Saturday 18th. This blew me away and has been in my head since then. The Fox Garden had a great greenhouse filled with beautiful orchids. I never expected what It would look like inside.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2053.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2053.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a></center><br />There was a nice sign in front of the greenhouse saying "Welcome to Davids Greenhouse"<br /><br /><br />Remember to click on photos for larger size.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2054.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2054.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a></center><br />Here are all the orchids in the greenhouse. Isn't this just a site to see! Look at all those roots hanging down. There were a few orchids that were blooming. Of course I had to take photos of all them. Along with these orchids were two hanging outside one of those was blooming. Enjoy the photos. This is the end of the Fox Garden.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2055.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2055.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2056.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2056.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2058.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2058.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2059.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2059.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2061.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2061.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2063.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2063.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2064.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2064.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2067.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2067.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2068.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2068.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2069.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2069.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2070.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2070.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2066.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2066.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a><br />All the blooming orchids in the greenhouse</center><br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2072.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2072.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a><br />The blooming orchid outside</center>Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-19374853369732955782008-10-20T23:03:00.004-05:002008-10-21T00:04:58.159-05:00Open Days San Antonio: The Fox GardenOpen Days in San Antonio was held on October 18th a wonderful Saturday. It ran from 10am to 5pm and there were 6 gardens to tour. Entering the gardens cost $5 each or $25 if you bought all 6 tickets at a local nursery. This was the first time San Antonio has been in Open Days. Proceeds benefited Gardening Volunteers of South Texas, the Alamo Heights Homeowners Association and the national non-profit Garden Conservancy. I took as many photos as I could of each garden before my memory card ran out. Just as a note these Open Days blog posts will be photo heavy. Sorry but I just could not leave anything out. If you want to see bigger photos just click on the images.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2039.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2039.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden" ></a></center><br /><br />The first garden on I went to was The Fox Garden. (Following Description from Garden Conservancy Website) Construction of the Fox Garden began in 2003 and was completed in 2005. The pre-existing groundcover, plants, and deck were removed, and boulders and fertile soil were brought in to create this tropical paradise. More than 100 majestic palms are the main feature of the garden. The owners have also added a cabana with an outdoor kitchen, a tented pavilion, and a greenhouse. An area was preserved for a large vegetable garden. Visitors will have the opportunity to see a tropical oasis of palms and flowers juxtaposed against a vegetable garden, and a greenhouse featuring a variety of orchids. (End Description)<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2086.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2086.jpg" border="0" alt="Fox Garden"></a></center><br />The front of the House had nice beds with lots of great plants. The House it's self was beautiful of course. Sorry I did not get an overview, I was just not thinking at that moment. There was such nice placement of plants textures and color. There is a philodendron in that photo along with pentas, oxalis, sago, ruellia and probably more.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2084.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2084.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a></center><br />There were wonderful trees in the front surrounded by these wonderful beds filled with calladiums, liropes, sagos and much more.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2039.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2039.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a></center><br />The first thing I noticed were the wonderful container combinations. I was jealous of course. Well acutally the first thing I noticed was the nice car but I didn't take a picture of that sorry it was blue, my favorite color. Sherlie my friend and class mate who I coincidentally met her loved this planter with Mona Lisa Lavender, Petunias, Diamond Frost Euphorbia, and Silver Dragon Liriope.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2036.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2036.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a></center><br />There were tons of great containers all lining the driveway and the path to the garden. I'm estimating about 15 containers with crazy combinations. These two were great of course. One was simple and the other more complex but with pink as the main tying color.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2037.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2037.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a></center><br />This was my favorite container. I'm really liking that Bromeliad or whatever type of Bromeliad it is.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2038.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2038.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a></center><br />The Fox Garden did really well at using a handful of plants and combining them in different ways. The vine that was used everywhere were mandevillas in pink and white.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2080.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2080.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a></center><br />Another common plant seen everywhere was the Diamond Frost Euphorbia. This combination was great and lined the walkway leading to the garden. Silver Dragon Liriope, Diamond Frost Euphorbia, and Foxtail Ferns.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2079.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2079.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a></center><br />This was the entrance walkway but looking the otherway (I was just leaving and forgot I hadn't taken a picture of it). There were also caladiums and some other plants in those side beds besides the diamond frost euphorbia, liriope and foxtail ferns.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2039.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2039.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a></center><br />When walking in this is what you first see. What a beautiful site! I felt like I was on a movie set or something. The pool was stunning and all the decor went together. It was all so very clean and pristine. There was a downside to this garden, it looked too perfect. It looked like there was some hired help or something because not a stray leaf was found or a sad looking plant. Like Sherlie said, "There is not a space not filled. I wonder if they planted most of this a few days ago?" It did not seem like a 'real' garden at all.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2040.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2040.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2043.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2043.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a></center><br />By the pool and home there was a bed that was filled with Holly Ferns, Aspidistra, Palms, Caladiums, Dahlias, yellow shrimp plants, hibiscus, and more.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2078.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2078.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a></center><br />The most common plant seen in every garden, besides palms were Aspidistra. I have never seen so many large clumps of Aspidistra ever. This is an expensive plant and I couldn't believe every garden had them in such large amounts.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2042.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2042.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a></center><br />Here is a look back at the entrance with the greenhouse hidden to the right. I'll get to that next post as I have many pictures of the inside of it.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2041.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2041.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a></center><br />Here is the tented pavilion. It is gorgeous of course, sitting in on the couch facing the fountain.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2045.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2045.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2048.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2048.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2047.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2047.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a></center><br />On the way to the pavilion there was this great surprise. Bromeliads in the palms! I loved this idea. I'm sure everyone who can does this but I never would have thought about it.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2049.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2049.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a></center><br />The inside of the Pavilion. Isn't it garden magazine center spread looking?!?! I would die to have this in my future yard, what a nice place to relax and read or take a nap.<br /><br /><Center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2051.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2051.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a></center><br />I loved this little container on the table in the pavilion.<br /><br /><Center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2052.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2052.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2076.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2076.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2077.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2077.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a></center><br />This was the little path leading down to the veggie garden. There were the usual plants that were elsewhere in the garden lining the way. There were some orchids hanging from trees and portulaca and ferns in the rocks.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2075.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2075.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a></center><br />Here is the vegetable garden. I'm not sure what was on this side. But there was another side that had lots of large tomato plants and pepper plants. This area had a huge lawn area and a shed to the left of this bed. I don't know what happened but I did not take photos of all that. I guess I got distracted about what I saw next....<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2074.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2074.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a></center><br />I saw these Ghost Plants....<br /><br /><Center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_2073.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_2073.jpg" border="0" alt="fox garden"></a></center><br />HOUNDREDS of them all along the wall. It was a site to see. They mixed so well with the firecracker plant cascading over them. I was in awe at the use of these succulents. It was such a nice shocker to an area that didn't have much interest.<br /><br />The Fox Garden was a great way to start the Open Days Tour. Of course I haven't shown you the Orchid Greenhouse yet. It would be too many photos in one post. So I'll let you all take a break and be back next post with the Fox Gardens Orchid Greenhouse. Prepare for eye candy!Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-88087283745437490712008-10-01T09:06:00.001-05:002008-10-01T09:08:13.181-05:00Wordless Wednesday: Violas<center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=viola.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/viola.jpg" border="0" alt="Violas"></a><br />Violas</center>Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-37026294741162550862008-09-24T19:56:00.003-05:002008-09-24T22:24:34.620-05:00T Shirt DesignsAt school we have a Horticulture Club. They want T-Shirts and of course asked if anyone had artistic talent. I really did not want to volunteer since I have too many things on my plate at the moment, but no one raised their hand and I thought, well one more thing couldn't hurt. I raised my hand to do the T-Shirt design and everyone got a surprised look on their face and some asked... are you sure you can draw. People tend to under estimate what I can do, but that is okay.<br /><br />Anyways, no one had any design ideas and the group is mostly male. Being a female it's hard to think of what the male Horticulture lovers would want on a shirt. They suggested a tree and that is what they did last year, but I really wanted something better and not so cliche. I drew out some flowers and a tree, all things that grow well in our area. Here they are:<br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=esperanzar.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/esperanzar.jpg" border="0" alt="esperanza"></a><br />Esperanza<br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=plumbagor.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/plumbagor.jpg" border="0" alt="plumbago"></a><br />Plumbago<br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=crapemyrtler.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/crapemyrtler.jpg" border="0" alt="crape myrtle"></a><br />Crape Myrtle<br /></center><br /><br />I showed these 3 to some group members both girls and guys. The girls loved the Esperanza and the guys didn't like any of them and wanted a more strong and manly tree. I think they are being selfish, really. I made the crape myrtle thinking it would please both sides. It's got flowers and is feminine but it's a tree and doesn't scream too feminine. After getting input from the males I went home and chose a more manly tree. Really I think it would be better for the males to have their manly tree and the females to have their esperanza. The tree is just so cliche and I like flowers I'm sorry. When I think of tree I think of arboriculture and not Horticulture as a whole.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=largetreer.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/largetreer.jpg" border="0" alt="big tree"></a><br />Manly Tree (Live Oak wannabe)<br /></center><br /><br />Hopefully now the tree will appease the males. I'll have to wait until the beginning of October to get a group vote and see what everyone has to say. It's hard to do this Horticulture Club because everyone is so used to the way that it has always been run. The previous semesters there were leaders that did not participate and then leaders that are so lax that hardly anything happens. I have a genuine want for the club to be fun and useful for everyone. This semester I want it to continue for the entire semester and to do fun things besides a plant sale. I'd like to meet 2 times a month instead of once a month. Meeting once a month would only be a total of 4 meetings for that semester. We have already had one to just get organized a bit and then the next would be getting together the plant sale. I really wanted to meet every week so there could be more activities and fun things to do and give everyone a good chance to attend some of the meetings. No one really liked that idea but agreed to 2 a month.<br /><br />I'm Vice President but I might as well be the President as the one that was elected is scattered, unorganized, and not much initiative. The members of the club can't agree on anything but don't have a real want to do much of anything that is suggested but anyone. I threw out so many ideas at the meeting and everyone was just not on the train for much if any of them. The person elected PR hasn't done much along the lines of finding people to come and talk and places for us to go. I some how got chosen to be the person to find plant donations when it had been discussed as being a whole group task and everyone's responsibility. I'm feeling like the group just doesn't want to do much of anything really and they are just there for the food that first meeting. My hopes and dreams are just too high I guess. I really shouldn't care but I do feel hurt. The club could be so much fun and really connect us and new comers and get the students more into the city community and the actual Horticulture community. I know people have full time jobs and families but it's just a half hour to an hour 2 times a month before or after your regular classes. I'm busy too, very busy and just so overwhelmed.<br /><br />Sorry again for the rant. Really if anyone has input on how to drive the clubs spirit and logo design ideas that appeal to all please do say. I really wanted a logo on the front but no one is into that, they are boring.<br /><br />EDIT<br />**************************************************************************************************<br />As suggested I did a tool. This might just work!! Tell me what you think.<br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=trowelanddirtr.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/trowelanddirtr.jpg" border="0" alt="trowel and dirt"></a><br />Dirt and Trowel</center>Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-51719245904481458772008-09-10T16:20:00.002-05:002008-09-10T17:20:04.322-05:00Home but not Garden Television<center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1889.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1889.jpg" border="0" alt="morning glory and sp vine"></a><br />Morning Glory 'Lt. Blue Mnt. Fuji' and Sweet Potato Vines</center><br /><br />On Plurk a couple of garden bloggers brought up the dreaded H(G)TV. Being gardeners we are peeved that there is no garden in Home and Garden Television. The station has been overrun with home improvement and house makeover shows that I can't say when I last saw a garden show. It's been brought up that if they don't have garden shows why not just take out the garden from their station title. <br /><br />I used to watch HGTV often and don't ever remember seeing a single garden show, but I'm young so maybe once upon a time there were some. Really if HGTV would put garden shows on their station they would get more ratings right? Apparently they don't believe so it seems. To them those home improvement shows are the big money makers. That could be why now a days not many people go into gardening and don't have appealing gardens or appealing neighborhoods anymore. Very rarely do I see a totally nice neighborhood or more than one house that has a great well kept garden. There are probably more people who are into interior designing, buying selling houses and what not because that's all the shows they televise. I have a feeling if they put more garden shows on their station more people would know what to do with their yards and how to grow plants and have just more general plant knowledge. I could be wrong, but it would be nice for us gardeners to have stuff to watch too. I don't have a home to renovate but I do have place to plant stuff. <br /><br />So HGTV, make more garden shows and educate your viewers into making the outside of their home look good too. It's not all about the inside. Or just take out the garden from your name and us gardeners won't be peeved that there is not gardening on your channel.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1903.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1903.jpg" border="0" alt="morning glory"></a></center><br /><br /><br />I'm always surprised to here people say 'You must have a green thumb to be going into the Horticulture Industry'. Well just a year ago I thought I couldn't grow anything not even ivy. Most people has this idea that gardening is hard and just so time consuming. It's not time consuming if you find it fun and pleasurable. It does get hard to go out and garden in 100 degree weather and seeing your plants suffer despite your best efforts. In my mind having shows to reeducate the generations that gardening is not this impossible thing, and with knowledge you can grow stuff and make a pretty place. Most of the time I hear people say 'I don't have time'. But yet they are able to watch tv for 3 hours or spend their time doing something else ridiculous when they could be out there taking care of their wonderful garden. It's rewarding, more rewarding then watching tv. After saying that then why bother have a tv station show gardening? It gets out to those out there that maybe want to garden but don't know how, and it would maybe give them a boost and inspiration into making a garden and beautifying their world and space. I bet everyone wants a beautiful garden but many just don't believe they can take care of it, grow plants, have the time, have the money, etc. Just my thoughts on what I have noticed in general of the people I talk to.Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-53616307924778113622008-09-08T17:04:00.002-05:002008-09-08T17:08:04.409-05:00Blotanical Awards 2008<center><!--[if lt IE 7.]><script defer type='text/javascript' src='http://www.blotanical.com/javascript/pngfix.js'></script><![endif]--><a href='http://www.blotanical.com/php/2008_blotanicals_nomin8.php' target='_blank'><img src='http://www.blotanical.com/images/award-badges-red.png' border='0' style='width:160px;height:160px;' alt='2008 Blotanical Awards' /></a></center><br /><br /><a href="http://www.blotanical.com">Blotanical</a> is having it's first Blotanical Awards. If for those garden bloggers that are a part of Blotanical. For all that read my blog please go and vote for your favorites. Of course I would be honored to even be chosen for one of the categories but even if not it's great to award those that do a great job. Go and vote all even if you don't vote for me. Award the special bloggers in that you love who are part of Blotanical. If you are not part of Blotanical and have a garden blog or like reading garden blogs do join! Hurry up there are only 12 days left. My how time does fly.Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-86167305972530717172008-09-07T11:44:00.002-05:002008-09-07T11:54:35.839-05:00More Seeds<center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1884.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1884.jpg" border="0" alt="seeds"></a><br />Seeds from Select Seeds</center><br /><br />I've been on a seed buying craze these past few months. Whenever I see a site that has seeds on sale I just have to look and of course there are things I find that I just NEED. I just purchased seeds from <a href="http://www.selectseeds.com/cgi-bin/htmlos.cgi/0146.1.3418700648978847099">Select Seeds</a> from their clearance section. I thought I would need more annuals as I have mostly perennials and they just out grow the containers so fast. I made an effort to get more herbs and more annuals in different colors. <br /><br />Here is what I purchased:<br />Feverfew 'Virgo'-chrysanthemum parthenium<br />Bronze Fennel 'Smokey'- Foeniculum vulgare<br />Salvia annual clary 'Blue Denim'- Salvia viridis<br />Castor Oil Bean 'Zanzibariensis Mix'- Ricinus communis<br />Love Lies Bleeding- Amaranthus caudatus<br />Calendula 'Pink Surprise'- Calendula officinalis<br />Jasmine Tobacco- Nicotiana alata<br />Love in a Mist 'Miss Jekyll Blue'- Nigella damascena<br />Cosmos 'White Sonata'- Cosmos bipinnatus<br />Larkspur 'Scarlet King'- Consolida ambigua<br />Shirley Poppy- Papaver rhoeas (Free with order)<br /><br />I'm not sure if some of these will do well here but I might as well try. I have been wanting to get the Bronze Fennel after seeing it at the Botanical Gardens and the Love in a Mist has been on my must have list forever. I tried to pick colors that would look good together easily and some texture differences. I'm going to have to make a plan so that my balcony will look organized instead of looking like a plant bomb landing on it.Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-31926091210814242032008-09-03T11:15:00.000-05:002008-09-03T11:15:00.694-05:00Corkscrew Buds<center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1871.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1871.jpg" border="0" alt="corkscrew vine bud"></a><br />Corkscrew Vine Flower Bud<br /></center><br /><br />The corkscrews are coming! My corkscrew vine (Vigna caracalla) has buds. I can't believe that I will be getting actual blooms from this vine. I really lost hope as all year it has been growing and taking over my balcony but no sign of any flowers. While spraying (Stupid mites and white flies) I saw buds, everywhere!f I've been so disattached to my balcony garden that I didn't notice. It's been so disappointing to go out and water all the wilting plants that are infested with bad bad bugs that I can't get rid of. Now that the weather is cooling I hope my plants can get healthy again and fight off the bugs. It's so hard to keep them all properly watered when I am gone for 8 hours. I deeply water them all before I go to work but it does not help them all. The corkscrew has been doing really well but it is starting to get mites and the white flies love to hide behind all those leaves. I can't wait to see and smell these blooms. They better come soon before the bugs take over.<br /><br /><center><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1872.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1872.jpg" border="0" alt="corkscrew vine bud"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1870.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1870.jpg" border="0" alt="corkscrew vine bud"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1868.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1868.jpg" border="0" alt="corkscrew vine bud"></a><br /></center>Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-77972239130392165832008-08-31T14:27:00.002-05:002008-08-31T16:10:48.068-05:00More newbies to New Sprout<center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1806.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1806.jpg" border="0" alt="Senecio rowleyanus"></a><br />Senecia rowleyanus 'String of Pearls'</center><br /><br />Did some shopping yesterday and got some great little succulents. Also got a nice little house plant too while shopping at a different place. I went to Rainbow gardens to get a client some Philippine violets before they sold out. Plus I had to go to that garden center because I had coupons that were about to expire. I've been wanting to start a succulent collect to maybe start selling...maybe some day. I have some weird interest in succulents but I have been fighting getting more because I don't really have room. Since I am going to be making a 4 tier grow cart I thought it would be a good time to get started on the collection. <br /><br />Senecia rowleyanus 'String of Pearls'. I knew this was called string of pearls because I remember seeing it online once. The thing I hate about getting succulents from stores is that they normally do not have actual names, it just says assorted succulents. I like the uniqueness of this plant and I think it would be a good seller as it makes a great hanging basket too. Succulents make great houseplants. They are also good for most anyone because normal not plant crazed people don't want to water often, so the succulents and cactus are the way to go. My mother had many cactus that were strewn around the house she loved them and they never died.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1796.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1796.jpg" border="0" alt="haworthia fasciata"></a><br />Haworthia fasciata</center><br /><br />Ever since I went to the botanical gardens and saw the Haworthia reinwardtii I have been in love with the Haworthias that are shaped that same way. Of course when I saw this Haworthia I couldn't pass it up. Yet again it was labeled as just plain succulent. <br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1800.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1800.jpg" border="0" alt="hoya carnosa"></a><br />Hoya carnosa 'Krinkle Kurl' variegated</center><br /><br />I have thought about Hoyas but never found one I really wanted. I love leaves that are curled and leaves that are variegated so I naturally had to get my first Hoya. It is supposed to bloom every few weeks if I fertilize every 2 weeks, or everyday with Eleanors vf-11 which I need to try out.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1795.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1795.jpg" border="0" alt="echeveria"></a> <br />Echeveria</center><br /><br />Darn these unlabeled succulents. This is an Echeveria and I'm not sure of the variety. I searched forever yesterday and the only thing I found that looked like it in some pictures was Echeveria subsessilis, but not too sure. Maybe someone out there can help with the ID. I'll post on Gardenweb to see if someone who is a succulent or echeveria guru will know.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1799.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1799.jpg" border="0" alt="hemigraphis alternata"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1798.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1798.jpg" border="0" alt="hemigraphis alternata"></a><br />Hemigraphis alternata</center><br /><br />Hemigraphis alternata is called waffle plant or red ivy. I liked the unique texture of the leaves and the purple undersides. I'm still trying to find something that likes my computer desk. I'm hoping the waffle plant will be the one since it likes part shade. If not back on the windowsill.Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-66633218732100970552008-08-31T13:29:00.003-05:002008-08-31T14:25:53.254-05:00Good news!!!I got a new job all!!! I feel so bad for leaving the large wholesale nursery that gave me a chance and provided me with so much experience. They just don't work around my school schedule. I thought it would be different and that once I started they would understand that I go full time to school and that work will be second. But last week it was very difficult for me. On Monday and Wednesday I went to work then to school then back to work then home for 2 hours then to school then home for 2 hours then sleep. Other days except for Friday I got to work then home for 2 hours then to school then home for two hours and then sleep. It's really hard to do anything while you are home for 2 hour intervals. I hardly have time to make food shower clean or anything really. Experiencing this I knew that I would have a very hard time doing homework. Besides that I was begged every day to stay later to work on Saturday and I'm working on labor day. Really I just can't I have school and extra time to devote to work. I don't like feeling guilty when I can't work when they need me. I don't like having to say no I can't work later or on the weekend because of school and then being told I'm so spoiled and special, because I am not. Other people that work there don't go to school after work so they can stay later and only have one day off a week. I was sick from driving around so much and not being able to eat enough or rest enough. On Tuesday of last week I said I'm quitting sorry all. So my last day would be September 9th but the prop manager told me I could leave this week on Thursday after everyone comes back from working in other areas. I really wish I could leave earlier I am so exhausted.<br /><br />How did I already find another job. I have been looking for weeks really or even a month or more for something that would be more flexible with my hours. I applied for the Botanical Gardens but did not get even an interview the 3 times I applied. It was for the best since it is further away and wouldn't really work out with school. Then a the landscaping for the condo did not work out. I have been landscaping on the side and it has been fun but also a physical challenge. I found an ad for an herb farm that was looking for a person to fill in a propagation spot. I emailed and was asked to come in for an interview last week on Monday. I went in and filled out an app, got the tour of the area and asked lots of questions then offered the position and to start asap. I was excited. They will be working around my schedule and have no problem if I need to change it for whatever reason. I can add more hours or take more off or work different days. It's great and I'm excited, plus I'm getting .50 cents more but could be getting even more if they see that I know what I am doing. Another great thing is that is up the street so it really does save me gas.<br /><br />Hopefully I will be staying at my new job for as long as I can. I really do want to stay at one place for a decent amount of time. I seem to only be able to stay for under a year or even a few months before something comes up and I just have to leave or find something else. Everyone has said it is a great place to work and I will more than likely like it more.Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-10664576160945542992008-08-13T20:28:00.002-05:002008-08-13T21:08:17.911-05:00Wordless Wednesday: Pups<center><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1736.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1736.jpg" border="0" alt="sitting tova"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1739.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1739.jpg" border="0" alt="posing tova"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1732.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1732.jpg" border="0" alt="looking up tova"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1734.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1734.jpg" border="0" alt="goofy tova"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1744.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1744.jpg" border="0" alt="ears back tova"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1741.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1741.jpg" border="0" alt="crazy tova"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=_MG_1747.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/_MG_1747.jpg" border="0" alt="jumping tova"></a><br /><a href="http://s191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/?action=view¤t=IMG_1722.jpg" target="_blank"><img width="400" src="http://i191.photobucket.com/albums/z167/vanillalotus/IMG_1722.jpg" border="0" alt="kasha and tova"></a></center>Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1134546826567074785.post-83890114268729471922008-08-13T19:12:00.003-05:002008-08-13T19:24:48.450-05:002nd times the charmReally 2nd time is not the charm in my case. I cut my finger AGAIN. The same finger in the same place but a different angle. Now I have a massive load of gauze on my finger which makes it weird to do anything. I got liquid stitches since getting a real stitch wouldn't work because of the awkwardness of the cut Yes I cried, it hurt and I was scared I was going to lose my finger tip. I do not like how the doctor cleaned it and I am worried of infection. I was trimming jatropha seedlings with dirty ass shears that have a bunch of jatropha juice and who knows what all over them. Anyways I'm fine just, I can't believe I did it again.Priscilla Georgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12353263318112375137noreply@blogger.com1