Walking down the street, what do I see? New Zealand flax. Up on the ridge what do I find, swept over with wind? New Zealand flax. Yes, phormium really does grow here in New Zealand. I’ve also seen a lot of hebes on my first day down under. When I got off the plane in Auckland I smelled fried donuts and the sea, a good … Continue reading The Land of New Zealand Flax
As I left for this trip my son looked at my feet and said ‘you’re wearing those???’ He always has stylish shoes and very cool socks, but I decided to wear my hiking shoes. It’s winter, they are well-worn, so very comfortable and maybe some seeds will stick to them and travel home with me! What would you wear to New Zealand Zander? I’d like … Continue reading Traveling Shoes
Today I’m starting my adventure to New Zealand. I’m going to visit family primarily, and to see as many plants as possible. I think many will be familiar because we share similar climates, but there will be a whole new world to discover. I’ve been stuck in Seattle for a long time, not having traveled far, so I’m really looking forward to this trip. My … Continue reading Journey to New Zealand
This is the first year I’ve grown Clarkia and I’m a believer now. We grew it from seed for our plant sale at school and I was not impressed with its beginnings. It was floppy and rangy and never could decide whether to grow up or down. I transplanted four starts to a nursery pot and there was trouble. Over the following month, three of … Continue reading Clarkia pulchella
I’m collecting trees. I’m collecting them but not planting them in my yard or writing them into books. I’m creating a small forest in my mind, a woodland edge of heart shaped leaves and twisty curly needles. This collection that is slowly growing is my list of all-time favorite trees. As time goes by I announce my favorites ‘I’m only happy under a Snowbell’ or … Continue reading A New Dove
Rainyleaf 