Wildflowers, Hybrids and More

Lavender Lovers Festival

2010-08-18T16:22:00.000-07:00

Lavender is one of those fragrances you either love or hate. I happen to love the smell--whether it be in soap, candles, or lotion. I can't sniff or slather it on fast enough. The stronger, the better. And dried lavender--Heaven!

Lavender infused iced tea and lemonade are both favorites of mine in the summer. During the winter I like to warm up lavender filled heating pads to relax sore muscles. It also works to calm the mind.

Each year, the town of Sequim, WA celebrates lavender with it's own festival. You can find anything and everything to do with lavender there. If you want the latest scoop go to the link and check it out!

Sticky Geranium Grows Local

2010-08-04T15:49:00.001-07:00

Sticky Geranium and Crane’s Bill Filaree are two species of the geranium family that grow locally. Related to the garden geranium this native plant is not one in the same. The blossoms vary from pink to purple with bold purple veins. Each flower has 5 petals. The stems are covered with hairs and the palm shaped leaves have sharp teeth on the ends and edges along with hairs as well, hence the name. It blooms May through August and reaches up to 3 feet. Sticky Geranium can grow in full sun with medium to dry soils out in the open, but prefers partial sun with moist to wet soils along creek banks. A versatile plant that would look beautiful next to a water feature or pond, or planted on a hillside since it can also grow up to elevations of 9000 feet.
Butterflies, bees and hummingbirds will be attracted to your garden if you include the native or garden variety of this plant.

Poppies! Poppies! Poppies!

2010-07-31T21:53:00.000-07:00

The photo on the left was taken a couple of months ago while I was on an evening walk. The one on the right was just taken the other night!

Do you, like me, remember the Veteran's handing out red poppy pins at the local grocery store? Do they even do that any more? I always donated what I could, but never wore them. I'd usually hand them to my Mom or toss them in the trash.

Being so young, I didn't understand the significance of the red poppy. You see, it's a flower that's always been associated with death. Poor little Poppy--

Today, I'd describe poppies, like the ones in these photos, as vibrant and strong. Not at all like the paper ones I was originally introduced to.

A Unique Idea

2009-09-17T17:11:00.000-07:00

If you are watching your cashflow like me this year you should consider making your own cologne. Bottle it for gifts-bottle it for yourself...
It's easy!

Cologne
1/2 cup lavender
1/4 cup rosemary
peel of 1 lemon
peel of 1 orange
1/2 cup orange-mint leaves
1/2 cup lemon balm leaves
2 cups vodka
2 cups rosewater
Steep 2 weeks; filter and bottle.

Spicy Cologne
1 oz. rose petals
2 T. lavender
2 thin strips orange peel
1 (1-inch) stick cinnamon, crushed
1 tb. coriander seeds, bruised
10 oz. vodka
Steep 2 weeks; filter and bottle.

Herbal cologne
2 T. rosemary
2 T. lavender
1 T. juniper berries, crushed
1 strip lemon rind
10 oz. vodka
Steep 2 weeks; filter and bottle.

Hungary Water
1 T. rosemary
1 tsp. mint leaves
Grated peel of 1/4 lemon
Grated peel of 1/4 orange
1/4 cup vodka
1/2 cup rosewater
Steep 2 weeks; filter and bottle.
Note: filter through a coffee filter for best results

September Clean-up Time

2009-09-07T15:09:00.000-07:00

This is a shot of my neighbor's corner lot. In this picture all of her flowers are in full bloom, they are beautiful.

Now, this same area is filled with overgrown bushes, spent blossoms and out of control grasses. Don't get me wrong- I’m not complaining. I love this yard and can even appreciate it in its present state.

The weather is definitely changing and this post is just a reminder for us all to be thinking about getting our yards (including my own) in order for the fall/winter season. It’s time to clean out our flower beds and rake up any debris that may be lying around. If you prepare the ground early you will be able to plant your bulbs with much more ease.

Time to finish unfinished projects, I can think of a couple of my own. No more procrastinating! Pick up those old pots and all of that gardening apparatus. You know those gloves really don’t belong there, don’t you? Look in the dreaded birdbath: I know it’s scary! My chimes are dirty right now. How about yours?

I have been collecting cones this weekend for future craft use. Let’s all be thinking ahead because pretty soon it will be to cold to garden. Before you know it, it will be dark by the time you get home from work.

My blooming houseplants will take center stage soon. Thank goodness for grow lights! And plant stands. Here in Idaho we typically see 4 to 5 feet of snow in our yards from January to March. Since I love orchids and lush greenery I make quite a few indoor container gardens during that time.

Well, off to practice what I preach

Dried flowers are NOT bad Feng Shui!

2009-08-30T12:12:00.000-07:00

Dried and preserved floral arrangements provide an organic feel to any home. If designed right they can be mixed and matched to compliment any decor. The benefits are obvious- they require no care or maintenance, are cost effective and can be changed for each season. Fillers look great in copper, crocks and vases in the kitchen. I like Ti Tree, Sweet Annie, Larkspur and Caspia.

There are so many choices for the home. Tall grasses like Plume Reed and Mountain grass combined with dried flowers look beautiful in pottery, wood and baskets. And yes, even glass. Some of my favorites are Congo grass, Highlander Millet and Giant Thistle.

Pheasant and Ostrich feathers, pods and mushrooms are fun to add for a green feel and are perfect for den and library designs. If you want a romantic look try air dried roses mixed with hydrangeas. Many people incorporate them into powder room and bedroom arrangements.

DESIGN IDEA- fill a glass vase with colorful beans and rice (in layers) and top off with Pampas grass.
Invite some friends over for an outdoor get together. When they see how great your patio table looks they will be impressed by your efforts to welcome them into your home.

For two wonderful sites go to www.mountainfarms.com and www.theflowermart.com

enjoy!

Fire destroys and creates at the same time

2009-08-23T13:28:00.000-07:00

The Castle Rock fire of 2005 destroyed thousands of acres of land in and around the Ketchum, Idaho area.

These photos are of fields of wild hollyhock that are now growing at increadible rates because of the charcoal rich soil the fire left behind. I love these pics because they illustrate new life emerging literally out of ashes and prove that something can rise out of nothing. Even though the area looks haunting it possess an interesting, beautiful contrast of color.

Nature does take care of itself and doesn't need any of us to interfere or compromise it. Waters turn and clean themselves and trees basiclly weed each other out as they fight for positioning.

These unseen events are happening every day. Let's not forget to celebrate them!

Address and Link to Wildflower Websites

2009-08-02T16:58:00.000-07:00

http://www.plantexplorers.com/

This is a great new site that has wonderful biographies of the pioneers in botanical exploration, always interesting to wildflower enthusiasts. The site also has info on the history of botanical art, and many other articles of great interest to any serious "plant person."

This is an amazing photo ID site created by a Pennsylvania woman who bicycles with her husband and takes photos of wildflowers along the way. The bike paths of their area, plus an incredible photo database are now on the site. I like this site because it shows ONLY the wildflowers they've found, and that means it shows the one you'll see out on a country road or on a walk through the woods--not thousands you'll never see. But this couple has really built up quite a gallery... and you can buy any of her photos if you like! She transfers them to tote bags, mouse pads, notecards, etc. A really fun personal wildflower site. Enjoy.

A Trip Through The Gardens

2009-08-01T11:13:00.000-07:00

First impressions can be deceiving.

To a newcomer the Sawtooth Botanical Garden looks relatively plain. Most commercialized gardens boost a grand entry, but as I stand in the parking lot I see only one building surrounded by just a couple of gravel covered paths.

My first thought is, “This should only take 10 minutes or so.”

Boy was I wrong.

Hidden just behind the trees you will find the garden of infinite compassion. It includes a man made stream that is so well done, it’s easy to forget that it’s not flowing from the headwaters of a mountain stream.

Next, you will see a shrine that houses a colorful Tibetan prayer wheel. As I stood there I could feel my vitality sore. My mind was clearer than it had been all week. These moments don’t come often enough so I savored it.

The signs, which are placed just far enough away from the focal areas not to detract from them explain and tell the tale and enhance the experience.

Realizing the trip was already worth it, I humbly walk towards the center of the property.

Just like a plain peacock that spreads its colorful plumes, the garden opens itself beautifully once you move past the greenhouse.

As an avid gardener I’m familiar with most species of perennials, but couldn’t help notice all the vibrant colors and textures in the garden. And I enjoyed seeing how the space was utilized.

Suddenly, I was taking pictures like a mad woman. Like someone who had just been let out of solitary confinement! The other visitors must have thought I was a professional photographer. As I tried to capture a shot of the circular sculpture located in the center area, I could see the outline of a teepee in the distance, which of course led me in that direction. Finding the children’s area next to it was an unexpected treat.

The backdrop of the mountains really sets this garden apart. Other well known larger gardens are just that, larger. The charm of this garden exists because of its intimate size combined with a knowledgeable and friendly staff. With several programs in place, it's members value educational opportunities rather than land expansion.

By the end of my visit it was pretty obvious to me that this garden is more than just a pretty place to bring out of town guests.

In closing, I recommend 3 things- Come alone or with someone who’s not on a schedule, bring a notebook and writing utensil, and don’t forget extra water.

Perfect Peonies

2009-07-19T17:52:00.000-07:00

It's late afternoon and finally beginning to cool down to a comfortable temp. The wind feels warm and it's moving the trees softly. All the birds in the area must be napping because it's so quiet. Just as I adjust to the silence the sound of a lawn mover down the street breaks it up.

It seems like I just noticed the first bulbs opening yesterday. My lilacs are done, but my tomatos and pears are ripening nicely. I need to get some pottery for my climbing clematis and hosta plants. My cat Squeakers is lying on the chaise lounge chair just under my plum tree filled with bird feeders. Yes, she’s looking up! She is only allowed outside when supervised and I can happily say that she has never caught a bird. She really seems to just enjoy watching them and doesn’t even try to run after them.

This is my little slice of heaven. Living up here in the mountains is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced before. This October, I’ll be celebrating my 2 year anniversary here in the Wood River Valley near Sun Valley, Idaho.

I love our organic world and appreciate everything in it's natural form. We are surrounded by a “living camouflage” and I find it humorous when people ask me silly questions. The other day a lady asked me, “How do I get ants off my peonies?”

Ok, my #1 question back to her was, “why would you want to get the ants off of your peonies?” They are good for them an important for them. I can’t believe that some gardeners really expect their flowers to line up, look perfect and wave to them! People, you are dealing and handling living flora that has strengths, weaknesses and imperfections just like we do. I would hate to live in a world filled with perfect peonies! How boring.

Wild Asters

2009-07-18T10:44:00.000-07:00

Asters belong to a much larger Composite family that includes Sunflowers. Characteristics are disk flowers surrounded by ray flowers. Some only have disks (thistles) others have only rays (dandelions). Asters can bloom at all different times of the year although most people are only aware of the ones that bloom in the fall. Idaho has several species that grow at different elevations; they include, but are not limited to, the Rough, Showy daisy, (Fleabanes) Elegant, Rocky Mountain and Leafy Aster. Wild asters can bloom purple, light blue to crème and the flowers grow in clusters or on single stems. They bloom from spring and through out the summer months with heights varying between 1 and 3 feet. They are common in our mountains and do quite well in challenging weather conditions. Asters make wonderful filler flowers for flowerbeds. They are an excellent choice for pollinator gardens located in sunny spots because they can grow in dry, rocky areas. Butterflies and bees are attracted to the colorful lavender/yellow combination.

Let's talk about the birds and the bees.

2009-07-13T20:41:00.000-07:00

A recent article I wrote was published in the Sun Valley Home Magazine. If you would like to read it go to:

www.sunvalleymag.com

Lavender Recipe; In the More Catagory

2009-07-07T20:01:00.000-07:00

Lavender Lemonade
This is a fabulous summer drink! Lavender soothes and refreshes on a hot day, and the scent brings back fond summer memories. I can't seem to make enough of it for my family."
_______________________________________
PREP TIME 15 Min
READY IN 15 Min

INGREDIENTS (Nutrition)
• 1 tray ice cubes
• 1/4 cup dried lavender
• 2 cups boiling water
• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 8 lemons
• 5 cups cold water, or as needed
•
DIRECTIONS
1. Place ice cubes into a 2 quart pitcher. Place the lavender into a bowl, and pour boiling water over it. Allow to steep for about 10 minutes, then strain out the lavender and discard. Mix the sugar into the hot lavender water, then pour into the pitcher with the ice.
2. Squeeze the juice from the lemons into the pitcher, getting as much juice as you can. Top off the pitcher with cold water, and stir. Taste, and adjust lemon juice or sugar if desired. Pour into tall glasses, pull up a lawn chair and a good book, and relax!

Sawtooth Botanical Garden Event

2009-07-05T12:11:00.000-07:00

The Annual Garden Tour: July 11, 2009
Garden enthusiasts from across the Northwest will come to celebrate this most beloved annual event.

Enjoy a self guided tour of private gardens that have flourished beautifully here in the picturesque Wood River Valley. Gardens are chosen for their distinct aesthetic sensibilities relating to our spectacular mountain backdrops. Treat yourself and join the Tour!

"We attended the Garden Tour last year and thought is was a wonderful event, well staffed and informative about the native plantings....not to mention what a great way to spend time viewing many gardens and learning about many of the plants/flowers." - Jane Oliver, SBG Member

The 2009 tour features seven magnificent private gardens in West Ketchum and Warm Springs neighborhoods. The Tour is one of the Sawtooth Botanical Garden’s biggest fundraisers of the year and welcomes approximately 400 patrons. Join us for inspiration and great ideas on which plants are the best in the Wood River Valley. Each stop on the Tour features an artist and musician and gardeners are on hand to answer questions. A picnic lunch with your choice of hamburgers, Adelle’s sausages, hotdogs, chips, cookies and soda will be available for purchase in the Britt garden. Tickets are $35 for members of the Garden and $45 for non-members. Tickets may be purchased at the Sawtooth Botanical Garden, located on the corner of Hwy 75 and Gimlet Rd. just south of Ketchum, during local farmers markets or at Chapter One Bookstore in Ketchum. Tickets are also on sale the day of the Tour at each garden location. The Tour may be started from any stop on the Tour. Participants are encouraged to carpool or ride bikes. Water and restroom facilities will be available along the tour.

The 2009 Gardens are:

1 Kelle Weston and Parker Bryan, 360 W 1st St., West Ketchum
2 Lynn and Barry Welker, 531 N 3rd Ave., West Ketchum
3 Janet and Roger DeBard, 230 Graduate, Northwood
4 Geoff and Alison Rusack, 411 Northwood
5 Kathleen and James Britt, 319 River Run, Warm Springs
6 Lila and Jack Corrock, 210 Huffman Dr., Warm Springs
7 Lisa Vierling and Michael Stoneback, 1034 Warm Springs Rd. (8 mi. past lifts)

View a Garden Tour Map.

Gimlets in the Garden

The major fundraising event for the Sawtooth Botanical Garden features cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and both a live auction and silent auction full of fabulous goods and services.

Gimlets in the Garden takes place on Saturday, July 18. Silent auction bidding and cocktail service begin at 6pm. Proceeds benefit educational programs and garden development. The name for this event is taken from the signature drink to be served at the event, the Gimlet, garnished with freshly picked mint from the Garden. Enjoy music and dancing with Kevin Kirk & Ononmatopoeia & Sally Tibbs. For advance registration please call 726-9358.

Fall Bulb Sale

Our Annual Bulb and Peony Sale features unique and hardy bulbs chosen for their distinct style and durability to our Southern Idaho climate.

Stock up on these show stopping varieties of frittilaria, tulip, and peony to name a few. Perfect end of the season activity before putting the garden to bed for winters sleep.

Come early to ensure choice variety as this one typically sells out fast! Public sale from 10am-2pm. *Members enjoy exclusive pre-sale benefits so renew today!

Harvest Festival

Annual Celebration of Central Idaho's locally grown food and the farmers and home gardeners that bring it to us!

Photo courtesy of Paulette Phlipot.

Check Out These Walks

2009-07-05T11:35:00.000-07:00

Idaho Outdoors Wildflower hikes set for this weekend
- Idaho Statesman
Published: 06/25/09

Comments (0) | Recommend (0)

The Idaho Conservation League is sponsoring several hikes over the weekend to see wildflowers.

A hike Friday morning will feature native plants in the Dry Creek area of the Boise Foothills.

On Saturday, a moderate hike is planned in the lush pine forest near Bogus Basin Recreation Area.

A hike is planned to Blue Lake near Cascade on Sunday.

Space is limited and registration is required. Call the Idaho Conservation League, 345-6933, ext. 14, or go to www.wildidaho.org for times and registration information.

Other planned hikes:

® July 11: French Creek and Black Tip Mountain near McCall.

® July 18: Boulder Lake to Rapid Lake near McCall.

® July 25: Secesh River near McCall.

® Aug. 14-15: Mount Borah climb.

® Sept. 4-5: Trinity Lakes and Rainbow Lakes near Anderson Reservoir

® Sept. 12-13: Lake Fork Creek to Maki and Snowslide Lake near McCall.

Statesman staff

Wild Flax

2009-07-04T20:50:00.000-07:00

Lewis’s Wild Flax is an Idaho native bloomer with dainty, periwinkle colored flowers with yellow centers that close daily. Although garden flax is an import from Europe, it’s another species that can be found along our trails and looks deeper blue in color. Both varieties have stems that are extremely thin and leaves that are long and narrow. Left untouched, it produces mass type flowers that bloom June through August, and grow between 12 and 36 inches tall. Since Wild Flax normally grows on hills, it’s an excellent choice for retaining walls and terraced gardens, but also looks beautiful in flowerbeds. It grows in full sun happily along side sagebrush, needs dry soil and is drought tolerant. Bees are attracted to the pollen rich flowers that can also be used to decrease the fire hazard around your home.

The Early Birds

2009-06-24T20:27:00.000-07:00

Good Morning!
These adorable little guys are waiting for Mom to bring them something yummy.
A treat for me to watch! And only a few feet away from my back porch.