I can't believe it! Just as we're beginning to enjoy the awakening of our tended landscapes; anticipating the surge of new growth and the magic of spring ephemerals, the season was well under way:

The emerging crosiers of Polystichum polyblepharum (Japanese Tassel Fern)

And the cool and voluminous Crocus signaling the arrival of spring.

This unforeseen weather we're having has not only interrupted this pleasing performance, but it has hindered the work of gardeners who have already begun to harden off plants to get them ready for spring planting.

I've been dividing plants, sowing seeds, ordering in liners and potting up like CRAZY and as plants come up, get rooted in and sending up new growth, they have to leave the confines of the comfy greenhouse to acclimate to outdoor temperatures. While temperatures have lingered just above freezing and providing a little bit of protection, the plants should be right on schedule, but when heavy rains AND SNOW are in the forecast, one can't help put panic just a little bit.

Plants are resilient creatures and I don't expect much, if any, damage, but it makes working conditions, running errands and all, difficult and more stressful fearing adverse weather conditions while driving, etc.

Sorry, I just had to vent.

Anyways, the work load has picked up dramatically. While I'm trying to get my taxes taken care of, there's always something in the garden, the nursery, or the greenhouse that's distracting me and calling for my attention. There's also been new clients, several lectures, and an upcoming class I'm teaching on Shade Gardening at Edmonds Community College, which, unexpectedly, filled up with a waiting list! You can say that I'm doing everything I've always hoped for, but now that I'm actually in the swing of things, it takes some serious time management and daily prayers that I stay on my feet throughout this season!

As for upcoming events, the biggest one on my Calendar that EVERYONE MUST GO to is the Elisabeth C. Miller Library's Garden Lover's Book Sale!

Here's a tidbit from the website:

"The third annual Miller Library Book Sale is set for April 4th and 5th. New this year is an art exhibit and sale by the Pacific Northwest Chapter of the American Society of Botanical Artists.

Want to have the first look at the bargains? Come to the Wine and Cheese Preview Party Friday, April 4 from 5pm to 8pm. Tickets cost $15 and are available for sale at the library or by calling 206-543-0415. Credit cards accepted.

The public sale runs Saturday, April 5 from 9am to 3pm, free admission. For more info on this event, visit the Miller Library's Website.


Hope to see you there!

Stay warm and stay busy! It's still spring so don't let the crummy weather bring you down!

Cheers,

Riz