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The perennial plant of 2025

1/15/2025

This native perennial is aromatic, has silver-green foliage, and is a good pollinator.

The Perennial Plant Association has named Pycnanthemum muticum, commonly known as clustered mountain mint, as the 2025 Perennial Plant of the Year.

'Clustered mountain mint' thrives in full sun to partial shade and adapts well to different soil types if they are well-drained. A clump-forming habit and attractive foliage make it a versatile addition to perennial borders, native plant gardens, and pollinator-friendly landscapes.

Its blooms are a profusion of very small white flowers.

Gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, deer-resistant plant that supports local ecosystems will find clustered mountain mint an excellent choice for the upcoming planting season.

It is a vigorous, colony-forming perennial that spreads by rhizomes but is not as aggressive as some if its mint family relatives. Unwanted spreading can be controlled by cutting the rhizomes out with a shovel.

Photo of mountain mint is here: Perennial Plant Association.

Croton - the perfect houseplant for dreary winter days

1/2/2025

Bright and cheerful - these plants liven up the indoors during winter.

The Croton is a vibrant houseplant known for its striking, multicolored foliage, with hues of red, yellow, orange, and green.

It thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers a warm, humid environment (occasional misting helps to maintain humidity; you can also place a tray of pebbles under the plant and add water just to the top of the pebbles).

Crotons require consistent watering, allowing the topsoil to dry slightly between waterings. They are sensitive to stress so avoid drafts, cold air, and sudden temperature changes.

If you can grow it successfully, you'll be handsomely rewarded by it's pop of color on gray winter days.

Farmer's Almanac for January 2025

1/2/2025

Advice, folklore, and gardening secrets

January 1 - When oak trees bend with snow in January, good crops may be expected.
January 13 - Full Wolf Moon (the name is inspired by the howls often heard during the quiet of winter).
January 17 - Benjamin Franklin's Birthday - he introduced kohlrabi to America ("kohlrabi" is a German word from the Italian cavolo rapa, meaning cabbage turnip).
Trending houseplant: Burro's Tail (shown in picture above) sports long trailing stems that can grow to 4 feet in length. Prefers bright sunlight either direct or partial for at least 4 hours per day. Water twice a month. Best in a hanging pot.
To make a bird shelter, heap branches from trees and shrubs loosely into a pile.
Celebrate the new gardening year by starting geranium (Pelargonium) seeds indoors; transplant in late May early June to summer containers. Full sun brings consistent blooms. Remember to harden off the seedlings before transplanting.
At Twelfth Day, the days are lengthened by a cock's stride.

Just for fun notable days in January this year:
January is National Clean Up Your Computer Month and National Hot Tea Month, and also:

January 1: Z Day (On this day, those whose last name begins with “Z” get to go first instead of last.)
January 3: National Chocolate-Covered Cherry Day
January 6: National Bean Day
January 8: Elvis Presley’s Birthday
January 10: National Houseplant Appreciation Day
January 14: National Dress Up Your Pet Day
January 20: National Penguin Day
January 22: National Answer Your Cat’s Questions Day
January 29: National Puzzle Day

"I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order". - John Burroughs, American Naturalist

The joys of seed catalogs

1/2/2025

Let's embark on a journey through the world of seed catalogs, where the vegetables are pristine, the flowers are flawless, and reality is on vacation.

Ah, the season of seed catalogs — a cherished time when gardeners transform into dreamers, and the promise of a bountiful harvest is just a page turn away.

Seed catalogs have a way of making even the most mundane vegetables sound (and look) like rockstars with their seductive descriptions, "Tomatoes that'll make your taste buds do the cha-cha" or "Carrots so sweet, they've been known to bring tears to the eyes of rabbits."

There's fantasy versus reality. You pick out the seeds, envisioning a garden straight out of a fairy tale. Rows of perfectly aligned plants, each one flourishing with abundance. Cut to reality: your tomato plants are engaged in a wrestling match with the cucumbers, and the carrots have decided to play hide-and-seek.

The 'Beginner's Luck' Myth: You're convinced that this year your garden will transform because you bought the 'Special Super-Mega-Easy-Grow' seeds. Spoiler alert: Plants still need good soil, water, sunlight, and a little bit of attention. No magic seeds will change that.

The Mystery Packet: Every gardener has that one packet of seeds they bought in a moment of whimsy. The label reads something like, "Mystical Midnight Zucchini." What exactly makes it 'midnight' and 'mystical'? Nobody knows, but you plant it anyway, hoping for a zucchini that moonwalks under the stars.

The Battle of the Bulging Mailbox: As winter drags on, the mailbox becomes the gardener's personal battlefield. Each day, it's a duel between bills and the eagerly awaited seed catalogs. You know you're a true gardener when you high-five your mail carrier for bringing joy in the form of glossy, full-color catalogs.

The 'Oops, I Bought Too Much' Dilemma: It happens to the best of us. You're casually flipping through the catalog, and suddenly you realize you've ordered enough seeds to start your own farm. It's hard to resist! Share your extra seeds with someone.

In the end, the joy of seed catalogs lies in the potential harvest, and in the inspiration they give gardeners. So, embrace the quirks, relish the fantasy, and remember, a garden filled with laughter is the truest form of abundance.

Happy catalog perusing!

How to Winter Water - important!

12/23/2024

Don’t count on this past November's big snow to be enough to get your trees and perennials through the winter.

Snowfall usually provides far less moisture than rain, so you’ll need to supplement with some winter watering for your trees, shrubs, and perennials.

Water long enough so that the soil is thoroughly soaked without run-off. Be sure to water areas in high sun exposure which tend to suffer winter kill.

Water your sloped areas using cycle-and-soak: several shorter periods of watering to let the moisture soak in without running off. Dry winter conditions can also attract turf mites, but proper watering can deter them.

CSU's PDF on Winter Watering is here.

If you aren't able to hand-water your landscape this winter, hire a landscape pro to do the work for you. It's a good investment in the long-term value of your property.

Keep watering even after the system is winterized. Don’t water when a hard freeze is expected to save damage to your plants.

In dry winters, all shrubs benefit from winter watering from October through March. Apply 5 gallons two times per month for a newly planted shrub. Small established shrubs (less than 3 feet tall) should receive 5 gallons monthly. Large established shrubs (more than 6 feet) require 18 gallons on a monthly basis.

Trees: In Colorado during winter, you should water trees with about 10 gallons of water for each inch of tree trunk diameter, typically watering once or twice a month during dry spells. Apply water to the "drip line" which is the area directly under the tree's branches (not trunk) where most roots are located.

To our Black Forest Garden Community

12/20/2024

Thankyou for being part of our gardening community.

You are part of a local community of gardeners and garden lovers in our unique area of Colorado. We look forward to meeting many of you in person at one of our Garden Club events/tours in 2025:

January 11: Indoor Plants panel of 3 experts in a home filled with plants
February 8: Third Annual Wine, Chocolate, and Cheese event
March 8: Fruiting Trees and Shrubs
March 15: Annual seed giveaway at Hilltop Schoolhouse
April: Irrigation
May: Annual plant sale
June: Annual Summer Solstice Party
and much more to come!

We're happy to connect with you and for you to connect with other garden folks through this wonderful Club. Sharing with you our inspiration, information, and resources on growing a great garden that makes you happy is a good start.

Connecting you to our members is helpful and develops kinship with others who love all things gardens too.

Your readership and participation in the Club are appreciated.

Happy planning, planting, and reaping the rewards of gardening in 2025!

Superb last minute gift that will be appreciated by anyone who loves nature, gardens, and gardening

12/19/2024

Our annual garden-inspired books list

This list of books will inspire and teach and all books on the list are available to arrive quickly. Choose one or two for yourself too!

Children's Books (great for grownups too)

Arriving after Christmas Day - made the list because they are wonderful books
The Backyard Birdwatcher's Bible
The Well-tended Perennial Garden: essential guide to planting and pruning
Month to Month Gardening Rock Mountain edition

Nifty gifts for gardeners

12/12/2024

Gardeners do enjoy the gifts you give them!

Simplify the lawn care routine with an automatic hose timer $10
Greenhouse Garden 500 Piece Puzzle $14 or this unexpected puzzle "tulip twister" hiding a roller coaster amongst the tulips. $20
Propagation (rooting) vase - numerous to choose from here and here.
Watering can (a gardener always needs a good one).
Electric Pruning Shears for perennials, shrubs, and tree branches up to 1.1 inch diameter. $159 and worth every penny.
Seed Saving Kit $32
Seed Ruler - with holes spaced every inch to make planting seeds 10 times easier (and requiring little need for thinning)
Hummerbar hummingbird feeder $36
Garden Paradise Apron $38
Herb Drying Rack $18
Cottage bird house - these adorable and elaborate novelty birdhouses built to mimic cottages. Prices vary.
Houseplant grow lamp $20
Plant animal - there is an animal or insect plant decoration for everyone on your list on this site! $8
Seed Dispenser tool with adjustable seed dispensing settings $6
Nature Sound Box by Relaxound (choose from Birdy box, Lakeside box, Ocean box, or Jungle box). $59. Also available at Big Tool Box in Parker, where you'll find an incredible array of amazing gifts for gardeners this year!

Peony eye-candy as you consider what plants to replace or add to your landscape this spring

12/11/2024

There's so much to love about growing peonies

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Peonies are lush, fragrant flowering plants beloved for their large blooms and vibrant colors, making them a favorite in gardens and bouquets.

They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, blooming in late spring or early summer, and can live for decades. Hhighly deer resistant and not prone to pests (except ants which don't eat them and don't contribute to blooming).

It goes without saying that peony blooms are spectacular (and they have a beautiful fragrance too).

Cut back the plant to the ground and cover with mulch for winter protection.

Our recommendations for what grows well where we live according to the National Gardening Association:

Petite Elegance
Bess Bockstoce
Lemon Chiffon
Mrs. FDR
White Frost
Rozella
Baronness Shroeder
Paula Fay
LaFrance
Command Performance
Roseheart

This searchable plant database has excellent photos and descriptions of 1,928 different kinds of peonies. Type the name of the peony (see list above) to see the bloom and growing details.

When to Plant - Fall and Spring (when ground can be worked) are best seasons in Colorado to plant peony. Don't expect blooms the first year or two.

How to Plant

CSU Plant Talk flyer on Peony. How to grow them and maximize their time as cut flowers.

Gardening shows to add to your watch list this season

12/11/2024

These shows combine inspiration, tips, and entertainment for gardeners of all skill levels.

Winter is the best season to catch up on gardening shows. They give us a bit of that gardening 'fix' that we need when we aren't actively gardening as well as a multitude of ideas for next year's gardening season. Light a fire, get cozy, and get ready to take notes!

Big Dreams, Small Spaces (Netflix) - Monty Don helps homeowners transform small outdoor areas into functional, beautiful gardens.
Grow, Cook, Eat (Amazon Prime) - A unique mix of gardening and cooking, showing how to grow vegetables and cook with them.
The Victory Garden (PBS/Amazon Prime) - A classic focused on sustainable and eco-friendly gardening tips.
The Big Flower Fight (Netflix) - A creative competition featuring elaborate floral and plant sculptures. Rather outrageous and so fun!
In the Garden with Bryce Lane (PBS) - Practical gardening tips for all budgets, with an Emmy-winning host.
Ground Force (Amazon Prime) - A British show where experts transform neglected gardens in just two days.
J Schwanke's Life in Bloom: (PBS/YouTube) - fourth generation florist, J Schwanke is a trusted voice in the flower industry and his shows are packed with fun and unique ideas for gardeners. Find his video library at ubloom.com.
Gardener's World (Apple TV/Amazon Prime) - renowned British legend Monty Don hosts this long-running gardening show. Each episode shares three different stories, often interspersed with clips of Monty Don as he tends to the garden he has been expanding for 20 years.
The Science of Gardening (Amazon Prime) - plant physiology, biology, hydrology, ecology etc. You'll be able to take what you learned and use it in your own garden.

Butter with herbs adds a special touch to the holiday table

12/10/2024

Compound butter is a versatile mixture of softened butter blended with herbs, spices, or other flavorings

This 'fancy' butter is SO good when used to enhance dishes like meats, vegetables, or bread. Easy to make, it can be rolled into a log for slicing and stored in the freezer for convenient, flavorful additions to meals.

Here are two herb butter recipes to try this holiday season (or any time!):

Ingredients: Start with softened unsalted butter as your base. Add flavorings such as minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs (like parsley, thyme, or rosemary), lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Optional additions include chili flakes, honey, or even finely grated cheese.
Method: Mix the softened butter and flavorings until evenly combined. Shape the butter into a log on a piece of plastic wrap, parchment paper, or wax paper, roll it tightly, and twist the ends to seal.
Storage: Refrigerate for up to two weeks or freeze for longer storage, slicing off portions as needed.

Chive Parsley Dried Tomato Butter

Ingredients:
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons dried tomatoes, finely chopped (rehydrate them in warm water if needed)
- A pinch of salt (optional)
Method:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter with chives, parsley, and dried tomatoes.
- Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Spoon the butter onto plastic wrap or parchment paper, roll into a log, and twist the ends to seal.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up before using.

Walnut Rosemary Cherry Compound

Ingredients:
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons walnuts, finely chopped and lightly toasted
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons dried cherries, finely chopped
- A pinch of salt (optional)
Method:
- Mix the softened butter with walnuts, rosemary, and cherries in a bowl until evenly combined.
- Shape the butter into a log on plastic wrap or parchment paper, roll it tightly, and twist the ends to secure.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set.

Low-maintenance indoor plants that are great for beginners

12/10/2024

Buy one of these and expect it to live a long time without much effort

Here's a list of easy to care for plants you will love:

Jade Plant - symbolizes wealth and prosperity (also called a "money plant"). Indirect light and water when dry.
African Milk Tree - cactus like, it likes a range of light conditions and infrequent watering. Can be toxic to humans and pets.
Aloe Vera - six hours of sunlight and water when soil is dry
Snake Plant - tolerates low light conditions and infrequent watering
Monstera - tolerates low light and less water
Spider Plant - can handle periods of drought and a range of lighting
Holiday/Christmas Cactus - bright light to encourage flowers and let soil dry between waterings
Purple Shamrock - sunny spot and occasional watering (not pictured above)

Rosemary Salt Recipe (excellent DIY gift idea)!

12/10/2024

Beyond good. Everyone who makes this loves it on everything.

Rosemary salt is a flavorful and aromatic seasoning made by blending fresh rosemary with salt.

It’s perfect for enhancing dishes like roasted vegetables, meats, or even homemade bread.

Here's a quick overview of how to make it.

Ingredients: You’ll need fresh rosemary sprigs, coarse salt (like sea salt or kosher salt), and optionally, garlic or lemon zest for additional flavor.
Preparation: Strip the rosemary leaves from the stems and chop them finely. Combine them with salt in a food processor to create a uniform texture, or mix them by hand for a coarser consistency.

- 1/2 cup coarse kosher salt
- 7 or so sprigs rosemary, leaves only
- 5 sage leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Blitz in a food processor.
Drying: You can also spread the mixture on a baking sheet and let it air-dry for a day or bake it at a low temperature (around 200°F) for 10–15 minutes to ensure the rosemary doesn’t introduce moisture, but in our dry climate the rosemary will air dry quickly.
Storage: Transfer the dried rosemary salt to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place. It can last for months if kept properly.

How to keep houseplants happy through winter

11/26/2024

Focus on light, water, and humidity.

Top tips for happy indoor plants this time of year include:

Adjust lighting. Place plants near south- or west-facing windows to maximize limited sunlight, or use grow lights if natural light is insufficient.

Water less frequently, as most plants grow slower in winter, but ensure the soil doesn't dry out completely. Stop fertilizing.

Increase humidity by misting plants, grouping them, or using a humidifier to combat dry indoor air. Keep plants away from drafts, radiators, and heat vents to prevent stress.

Dust leaves to allow better light absorption, and avoid fertilizing until spring when growth resumes.

Check for pests.

Check temperatures.

This article provides excellent details on all of the above.

Thanksgiving foods that cats and dogs can and cannot eat

11/26/2024

Keep your pets safe during this food-filled holiday.

Go easy on Thanksgiving 'treats' for pets. Less is better, but if you are tempted to share with your furry friend, take note of what will and won't agree with their digestive systems.

CATS - Ok List

Turkey (unseasoned)
Ham (unseasoned)
Sage
Cranberries
Potatoes (cooked, plain)
Green Beans
Pumpkin (cooked or canned)
Corn (cooked, no cobs)
Whipped Cream

CATS - Not Ok List

Turkey skin, bones, drippings
Stuffing
Garlic
Onion
Nutmeg
Grapes
Raisins
Mushrooms
Butter
Xylitol (sugar substitute)

DOGS - Ok List

Turkey (unseasoned)
Cranberries
Sweet Potatoes (no butter)
Green Beans
Pumpkin (cooked or canned)
Corn (cooked, no cobs)

DOGS - Not OK List

Turkey skin, bones, drippings
Stuffing
Mashed Potatoes
Sage
Garlic
Onion
Nutmeg
Mushrooms
Butter
Xylitol (sugar substitute)

Small Business Saturday supports area plant nurseries and other local businesses

11/21/2024

By shopping local, customers help create jobs and and support small businesses. Saturday November 30, 2024 is this year's Small Business Saturday.

Small Business Saturday, celebrated the Saturday after Thanksgiving, encourages shoppers to support local businesses, helping boost local communities and local economies.

Created by American Express in 2010, this initiative has grown into a nationwide movement, spotlighting the unique products and services small businesses offer. Here are ideas for where to shop locally to support our area's local shops:

Front Range Landscape (Franktown) Huge sales on trees - most trees 40 - 50% and even 60% off and they can still plant them.
Tagawa Gardens: 20% off nearly everything in stock. Visits with Santa, live musical performances, and gourmet food onsite.
Pine Lane Nursery (Parker): Christmas tree lot, holiday wreath making workshop (registration required) and a wonderful shop filled for the holidays for your shopping pleasure.
Holly Acres (Elizabeth): big sales on trees (i.e. buy two fruit trees get one free), berries (grapes, elderberry, currants, raspberries, blackberries). A large variety of herbs and unique pots too.
Elizabeth Carriage Shoppes (Elizabeth): lots of wonderful products including for baby, women fashions, dogs and cats, candles, home decor, wellness, specialty foods, and an array of pots and outdoor decor pieces.
39 North Gift Shop (Parker): go-to for exquisite home decor and thoughtful gifts. Unique products.
Interior Delights (Parker): beautiful quality home decor, lighting, art and more.
The LOCAL (Parker mainstreet): your connection to Colorado artisans, farmers, chefs, ranchers, and more! Whether it’s going on your plate, in your home, or as a gift, we’re here to help support other local businesses throughout the community.
Great Finds (Parker): unique decor and gift boutique with home goods, clothing, jewelry, and gifts.
Cinderella Ranch Boutique (Parker): this long time Parker business has clothing, shoes, jewelry, and home goods. If you haven't been in in a while check it out!
Nest on Mainstree (Parker): boutique offering a mix of home decor, gifts, and clothing. Known for eclectic and stylish selections.
The Nest at 1897 House (Elizabeth): eclectic mix of modern and antique, with home decor, clothing, gifts and accessories, many by local artisans.
The Prickly Pear Vintage Market (Elizabeth): offers a unique shopping experience with vintage items, new home decor, clothing, and a cute coffee shop all in an historic structure on Elizabeth's main street.

Shop local, eat local, spend local, enjoy local.

Black Friday deals for gardeners

11/20/2024

Gardeners can find fantastic Black Friday deals on a range of tools, accessories, and gifts. Here are some highlights.

Botanical Interests: this Broomfield company has high quality seeds with many unique varieties and seeds you've likely never seen before. Buy 1 get 1 free sale for Black Friday.
Vertical Planter: grow up to 42 plants vertically - on sale for $119
Lined grow bags: on sale for $15.39 for a five-pack of 5-gallon grow bags
Grow bag Gardening book with step-by-step expert advice and tips: $22.94
Seed starting grow lights: $84.99 at Epic Gardening; also here from Amazon.
Soil Analysis/Testing Kit: on sale for $44.99
Ninja Woodfire Pizza Oven and Smoker: Electric outdoor oven with 8-in-one functionality (pizza, roast, broil, bake, smoker, dehydrate, keep warm). On sale $299.
Hori Hori Garden Knife: A versatile tool for digging, cutting, and weeding; has a serrated blade and depth measurements, making it a must-have for both novice and seasoned gardeners. Here's a blog post we wrote about these great knives. Sales starting at $15.
Amaryllis Gift Kit: up to 55% off for Black Friday and Cyber Monday - high quality from Holland Bulb Farms. 1 bulb gift kit $23. Three bulb gift kit $63. Or get just the bulbs and not the kit from $4 - $10 each (King Soopers, Walmart, Home Depot, Lowes, Ace Hardware and all local garden nurseries)
4ft x 8ft Garden Grid Watering System: all-in-one garden watering system and plant spacing guide. Comes pre-assembled, lasts in all climates, and provides fully adjustable full-coverage watering. On sale for $124.
Outsunny Hobby Greenhouse: 79.25"H x 74.75L x 75.5D. On sale for $242. Note: does not have a high wind rating - place in a protected area.
Bird Feeder with camera: for the avid bird watcher, this smart bird feeder takes the hobby to a whole new level. On sale for $99.
Grampa's Weeder: save your back and your knees with this weeding tool that really works! Here's an article we wrote about this handy tool. On sale $38
Bamworld Plant Stand: for the indoor plant lover with too many plants (is that possible?) - this clever plant stand will corral your plants into a 'verdant vignette' within minutes. $20
Worx Electric Leaf Mulcher: once you're done raking, use this powerful electric mulcher to chop up the leaves for a fabulous free mulch. On sale $121
Iron Log Holder: stylish, rustic, and sturdy. On sale for $125.
Self-watering plant pots: 68% off! Only $19 and good looking to boot. Never overwater your potted plants again.
Gardening books: large variety of gardening books for sale. Find numerous books discounted by 40, 50 and even 60% for Black Friday.
Terrain: super high quality goods devoted to gardeners. Large sale this Friday.

Order Dixondale Onions now - don't delay!

11/15/2024

These onions are large, reliable, and perfect for Colorado gardens. They're on sale right now and selling fast.

Dixondale Farms provides the best onions we've ever planted. Year after year we get large, tasty onions the size of softballs (no exaggeration).

Dixondale Farms has been in business for 140 years (!) and there is no comparison to their onions. Nothing we've ever purchased in Colorado has performed even close to these beauties. If you love onions, this is your go-to.

Their pricing is reasonable ($10.50 for 48 bareroot onions) and they offer free shipping on every order.

Place your order NOW and they will send the sets to you at the appropriate time next spring (April timeframe). TIP: order the "intermediate" varieties - white, yellow, and/or red.

Here is their online catalog. Don't delay - these sell out fast and you don't want to miss out!

Make your own pinecone wreath - it's easy!

11/15/2024

Using what we have in abundance, a wreath made from gathered pinecones is an easy DIY project for the holidays.

Making a pinecone wreath is a fun and creative way to decorate for the holidays.

Start with a wire or grapevine wreath form as your base.

Gather pinecones of various sizes and shapes for added texture.

Using a hot glue gun, attach the pinecones to the wreath form, starting with the largest cones and filling in gaps with smaller ones.

Position the pinecones at slightly different angles to create a natural, layered look.

For a secure hold, wire the larger cones in place with floral wire before gluing.

Make sure to cover the entire wreath evenly for a polished finish.

Once the base is complete, personalize your wreath with decorations like ribbons, faux berries, greenery, or even glitter for a festive touch. A wide ribbon bow can be attached to the bottom or top as a centerpiece.

If desired, spray-paint the pinecones gold, silver, or white for an elegant look, or leave them natural for rustic charm.

To hang your wreath, loop a piece of ribbon or wire around the top and secure it to a hook or nail. Your handcrafted pinecone wreath is now ready to bring holiday cheer to your home!

This website provides an alternate option for a DIY pinecone wreath with great pictures included in the step by step instructions.

A pumpkin soup recipe you're going to adore

11/14/2024

Rachel Ray always has the most luscious recipes, and this one is no exception.

With its velvety texture and bright cran-apple relish accompaniment, this warm and wonderful soup will have your Thanksgiving guests swooning.

Pumpkin Soup with Chili Cran-Apple Relish
Ingredients

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
2 tablespoons butter
1 fresh bay leaf
2 ribs celery with greens, finely chopped (save time and purchase celery already washed, trimmed and cut into sticks – this makes fast work of chopping)
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
Salt and pepper
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons poultry seasoning or 2 teaspoons ground thyme
2 teaspoons hot sauce, or to taste
6 cups chicken stock
1 can cooked pumpkin puree (28 ounces)
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

For the relish:

1 crisp apple, such as McIntosh or Granny Smith, finely chopped
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 cup dried sweetened cranberries, chopped
1 teaspoon chili powder
2 teaspoons honey
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions
Heat a medium size soup pot over medium to medium-high heat. Add the EVOO and melt the butter. Add the bay leaf, celery and yellow onion. Season the veggies with salt and pepper.

Cook for 6-7 minutes, until tender. Add the flour, poultry seasoning and hot sauce, to taste, then cook the flour for a minute.

Whisk in the chicken stock and bring the liquid to a bubble. Whisk in the pumpkin in large spoonfuls to incorporate it into the broth.

Simmer the soup for 10 minutes to thicken a bit, then add in the cream and nutmeg. Reduce the heat to low and keep warm until ready to serve.

While the soup cooks, assemble the relish: combine the apple, red onion, lemon juice, cranberries, chili powder, honey and cinnamon.

Adjust the seasonings in the soup and relish, to taste, and serve the soup in shallow bowls with a spoonful of relish.

Credit: RachelRay.com

The best types of fresh greenery for holiday decorating

11/14/2024

Fresh greenery brings a natural, fragrant touch to your home's holiday decor.

The types of greenery mentioned below can be used alone or combined for more layered, textured holiday decorations (as shown in photo at left).

IMPORTANT: In our dry climate, cut greenery dries out fast. To keep arrangements fresh, mist the greenery regularly and avoid placing near heat sources.

Pine branches and boughs are long-lasting, flexible, and easy to work with. Their needles have a distinct, classic holiday fragrance and work well in garlands, wreaths, and centerpieces.
Cedar has soft, feathery branches that drape beautifully. It works well for garlands and swags, adding a rich, green color and an aromatic, woodsy scent.
Fir varieties, such as Douglas fir and noble fir, are popular for wreaths and swags because they’re soft to the touch and have a vibrant green color. Their branches are also sturdy enough for heavier ornaments or decorations.
Eucalyptus has a lovely gray-green color and a refreshing scent. Its rounded leaves add texture and color variation to holiday arrangements, and it’s also known to last a long time when fresh. Silver dollar eucalyptus, with its flat, round leaves, is particularly popular for holiday displays.
With its glossy green leaves and bright red berries, Holly is a traditional holiday favorite. It adds a pop of color and festive spirit to arrangements, wreaths, and garlands. NOTE: the berries can be toxic to pets and small children.
Boxwood has small, glossy leaves and is easy to shape, making it ideal for wreaths and small topiaries. Its dense structure is perfect for creating long-lasting, compact holiday decorations. Trader Joe's has gorgeous boxwood wreaths for only $15.
Magnolia leaves bring an elegant touch with their large, shiny green tops and copper-brown undersides. They’re perfect for wreaths, centerpieces, or garlands, especially if you want a more sophisticated or Southern-inspired look.
Juniper branches, with their blue-green needles and small blue berries, add lovely color and texture. Juniper works well in garlands, swags, or arrangements and has a pleasant, woodsy scent. Juniper dries quickly indoors, so definitely keep it misted to stay moist.
Ivy, with its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves, is excellent for garlands and cascading centerpieces. Its shape and flexibility make it easy to wind through other greenery for a layered, natural look.
Bay leaves add a subtle fragrance and a distinct texture with their thick, pointed leaves. They’re excellent for making wreaths, and once dried, they can be used in cooking, too.

For additional information on the use, care and keeping of fresh greenery, click here.

Why the pros don't like terracotta pots for plants

11/14/2024

Terracotta pots have certain downsides that may make them less ideal for some plants.

Gardening experts say many plants will struggle when planted in terracotta pots. Here's why:

Porous Nature: Terracotta is a porous material, meaning it absorbs water. This causes the soil inside to dry out more quickly than it would in non-porous containers, like plastic or glazed ceramic. For plants that require consistent moisture, such as ferns or tropical plants, terracotta pots can make it challenging to keep the soil sufficiently damp.
Temperature Fluctuations: Terracotta pots don’t insulate well, so they are more susceptible to temperature changes. They can overheat in direct sunlight, drying out the soil quickly and harming roots. In winter, terracotta can become very cold, which can be stressful for plant roots, especially for indoor plants.
Salt and Mineral Build-up: Because terracotta is porous, salts and minerals from water and fertilizers can seep into the pot, eventually causing a white crust to form on the outside. This buildup can sometimes leach back into the soil, potentially harming plants that are sensitive to salts.

Heavy Weight: Terracotta pots tend to be heavy, which is inconvenient if you move plants around. They can easily crack or break if dropped or exposed to freezing temperatures with moisture inside.

That said, terracotta pots can be ideal for plants that prefer drier soil, such as succulents and cacti.

Where do bees go in winter?

11/14/2024

Hudding, clustering, vibrating, hibernating...

In winter, bees adapt to survive the cold in varying ways.

Honeybees: In winter, the male drones die off, leaving only the female workers and the queen. The all-female bees form a tight cluster (with the queen at the core/warmest spot), and then begin shaking and shivering to maintain a temperature of about 95 degrees F. The outer bees insulate the inner bees, rotating positions so that each bee gets a turn in the warmer center.

Throughout the cold months, the bees rely on the honey they stored during the warmer seasons. They move around the hive to access different honey reserves, breaking and reforming the cluster as needed.

Unlike in the summer, bees won’t leave the hive to forage for nectar and pollen. They enter a kind of semi-hibernation where they conserve energy, relying solely on stored honey for food.

Bee Species Differences: While honeybees overwinter in hives, other bees like bumblebees and solitary bees have different strategies.

Solitary bees (mason bees) often spend winter as pupae in their nests, waiting for spring to emerge. Also known as 'torpor', hibernation allows them to conserve food and use less energy.

Bumblebee queens (newly mated) survive the winter by hibernating underground in small burrows, loose soil, banks of earth, or sometimes flowerpots. Bumblebee queens hibernate alone, typically underground, while other members of the colony die off. Before hibernating, they eat lots of pollen and nectar to build up fat stores and then enter a state called diapause, where her metabolism slows and she doesn't eat or move much.

When the temperatures warm in spring, the queen emerges from hibernation and begins searching for a suitable nesting site to establish a new colony. She then lays her first batch of eggs and cares for the larvae herself until they mature into worker bees.

Colorado's largest pumpkin EVER was grown this year

11/1/2024

Bet you didn't know that Colorado has a Giant Vegetable Club!

The Rocky Mountain Giant Vegetable Growers Club started in 2006 to share information with others who love growing vegetables as large as they possibly can.

Rocky Mountain Giant Vegetable Growers Club holds yearly weigh-offs and gives prizes for the heaviest, prettiest, and ugliest pumpkins, and also the largest tomatoes, sunflowers, long gourds, green squash and more. The final weigh off was October 19th in Peyton, Colorado at Smith Farms.

Jared's Nursery and Garden Center, Nicks Garden Center, Fort Collins Nursery and Smith Farms hosts the official GPC weigh-offs each year where hundreds of families show up to see the giants.

The GC website also has resources for how to grow giant vegetables, and even how to build a hoop house.

As for the largest pumpkin ever grown in Colorado - click here to view a 2-minute video showing the contenders, and announcing the largest pumpkin size ever grown in Colorado.

How to dispose of old pumpkins in an environmentally friendly way - here are ideas

11/1/2024

**The U.S. grows and sells 1 billion pumpkins each year. Here's how to dispose of yours.**

Instead throwing pumpkins in the trash when you're done with them (where they then go into a landfill and create an enormous amount of methane gas), consider these disposal options:

Composting is an excellent option, as it allows pumpkins to decompose naturally, enriching the soil and reducing methane emissions. The National Wildlife Federation recommends cutting it up into pieces and leaving it in a composting area in your yard that animals cannot access. Covering with leaves helps the nutrients to soak into the soil.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife also has a page on how to dispose of pumpkins here and here.

Donate pumpkins to local goat owners - local homesteads will take pumpkins as animal feed. However, if there is paint or wax on the pumpkin, they won’t take it because it’s toxic to the animals. Try Little Slice of Heaven or Rebecca Foo, both just off Bayou Gulch Road in the Bayou Hills subdivision.

DON'T leave out your pumpkin for wildlife or feed it to wildlife
Though some people create “snack-o’-lanterns” to feed critters such as birds and squirrels, be aware that leaving your pumpkin out can attract unwanted wildlife as well. Bears are especially attracted to pumpkins as they are looking to add on a few more pounds before the winter season. The links for the National Wildlife Federation above provide information on how bad pumpkins are for wildlife of all kinds.

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Terracotta pots have certain downsides that may make them less ideal for some plants.

Hudding, clustering, vibrating, hibernating...

Bet you didn't know that Colorado has a Giant Vegetable Club!

The U.S. grows and sells 1 billion pumpkins each year. Here's how to dispose of yours.

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**The U.S. grows and sells 1 billion pumpkins each year. Here's how to dispose of yours.**