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Spring has sprung, and now it’s summer
6/27/2026 Introduction As I was growing up, I never really understood the meaning of the phrase “Spring has Sprung.” In my mind, I pictured this enormous spring that took several, if not hundreds, of people to compress. Then, when the time was ripe, the tension would be released, the winter weather would disappear, and then…
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Spring Gardening Update: Bees, Lavender, and Greenhouse Changes
The blog update from June 2025 discusses the author’s recent activities, including a new online store experiment, thriving bees amidst favorable spring weather, and an expanding lavender bed. The author also shares experiences in greenhouse management, including selling plants and preparing for fall crops. Additionally, a long-awaited waterline installation has improved operations.
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Beekeeping Update: Progress and Challenges in 2024
The author reflects on the busy year, noting progress with beekeeping, including successful feeding and growth of colonies. They review last year’s ambitious goals, achieving new hive boxes and constructing a barn and greenhouse. Challenges with lavender and a Koi pond leak were addressed, with future improvements planned.
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July News and Updates
On the 4th of July, the author experienced symptoms related to Covid-19, prompting a hospital visit. They also shared experiences regarding skin cancer scares and the bees in their colonies. Additionally, they provided updates on their greenhouse, lavender bed, and soil monitoring. The author is optimistic about the progress of their projects, despite facing challenges.
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Lavender Bed June 2024
The lavender bed has seen significant growth since April, now reaching 60 plants. Despite some initial challenges, such as a broken soaker hose and saturated ground, most plants have survived. Additionally, buckwheat has attracted bees, and the honey is anticipated to have a rich flavor. Overall, good progress has been made.
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Lavender bed planting…
In late April, the lavender bed project progressed significantly. Despite initial setbacks finding the right equipment, the ground was tilled and plants were successfully planted. Amid deliberations on row spacing, 37 plants were sourced and planted. A soaker hose, over 25 years old, was used for watering. Plans for more plants are in the works.
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Big Happenings Friday…
In April, the apiary faced challenges with a split wishbone tree threatening the hives. Colter’s Tree Service removed the hazardous tree and cleared cedar trees, expanding the lavender bed. Despite the hectic day, more work was accomplished than anticipated. The lavender bed is now ready to be tilled.
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Starting Spring Flowers…
1/16/2024 Last week, on the 9th of January, we started the first bunch of spring flowers from seed. Linda had some Zinnia seeds from Park Seeds leftover from last year, so we thought it was time to put them to good use. We also started some pollinator plants, but they haven’t come up yet. Late…
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The (soon to be) Lavender Bed
November, 25, 2023 On and off all summer and fall we have been clearing out a mess of cedar trees with a large dead one in the midst of it. When we started the idea was to plant more native type wildflowers and hopefully the bees would find them. If not, other pollinators and butterflies…