Blame it on the Cold, Wet Spring…

It’s human nature to pass the blame along.  No one  wants to be responsible when mistakes are made, things go wrong and problems ensue.  It must be part of our genetic makeup to point our fingers at someone or something else.  For instance, gardeners are always blaming the weather.  Especially this year in the Pacific Northwest.  The last three springs have been cooler and wetter … Continue reading Blame it on the Cold, Wet Spring…

Caterpillar Attack

These caterpillars had already devoured half the leaves on my young crabapples when I finally discovered them.  How could they be missed?  Fat, spotted and making no attempt at disguise, they were busily on their way to butterflies.  It’s interesting that they don’t eat the leaf veins, as you can see the skeleton on the left.  Why bite into tough veins when surrounded by succulent … Continue reading Caterpillar Attack

Evergreen Huckleberry

A shrub for all seasons.  A native of the Pacific Northwest.  A  plant with an edible berry.  A landscape addition with leaves of green all year long.  This is Vaccinium ovatum or the evergreen huckleberry.  Included in this beloved group Vaccinium is the blueberry, red huckleberry and cranberry.  This shrub will enhance any garden.  It can reach 2-3 feet in sun and 8-10 feet in … Continue reading Evergreen Huckleberry