There is a magnificent Hawthorn tree in full bloom across the street from me. I think it looks like an ancient queen dressed in all her finery — and she has just had her hair done.
This has got to be the season for Hawthorn trees to flower. When driving through North Saanich this past week-end, there were dozens of what I assume are native Hawthorn blooming alongside the back roads. How lovely they looked!
If you are a gardener it might delight you to see them, and to think they are blooming with only the birds to see them — and the odd driver who is unfamiliar with that rural area and is probably lost.
It seems to me that we miss so much by always driving on the highways when, just off these crowded roads, are these marvels that nature offers us.
I wonder why we are always in such a rush?
“Slow down and smell the roses!” I wonder who said that? I’d guess he or she must have been a keen gardener who often lies in a deck chair to enjoy a garden’s delights.
This past weekend was (as you all know) Mother’s Day. My family spoiled me by providing several beautiful bouquets of flowers.
This must be one of the most wonderful days any florist enjoys!
It was lovely for me too, since I only have a couple of vases.
I wonder if it would be considered crass to mention my fondness for chocolate? (I’m teasing.)
The first flowers to arrive were from Tom, Jim’s son, of whom I’m very fond, and lots of others followed. Yes, I am spoiled — so, phone the police.
I must get those carrots planted. The ones I grew last year only managed to reach the length of my thumbs — and I have small hands — but they were wonderfully sweet, so we’ll try again this spring, watering more frequently and adding a smidge of fertilizer every couple of weeks.
They were called Chantenay Red Cored #2, but maybe they were too fancy for a pot and I should get some just called “carrots.”
The three sunflower seeds I put in a couple of weeks ago are now up and growing so strongly they will have to go into a large pot immediately … tomorrow for sure, I sincerely hope.
Helen Lang has been the Peninsula News Review’s garden columnist for more than 30 years.
