Starting spring seedlings

Dear friends,

Although it's way past time for us central Texans to plant our spring gardens, my friends in other areas are just now starting their spring seedlings. My friend Susan Tweit, in Salida, CO, just blogged about how she starts her spring seeds in self-watering pots and organic seed-starting mix.


Photo by Susan J. Tweit

I love this system, and will have to look into getting one for myself. I usually use some old peat pots (given to me years ago by a friend), re-purposed yogurt containers or other found containers, but that makes things a bit fiddly because they're never the right size, and the peat pots have a tendency to grow mildew if not watched carefully, or if over-watered.

IMHO, it's worth spending a little money for a practical, organized system such as this.

Susan also uses seeds from two of my favorite companies...Botanical Interests and Renee's Garden Seeds. I've recently found both of these locally, and was pleased as punch. They both carry a good selection of old-fashioned and heirloom seeds for flowers, herbs and vegetables.

Take a look at Susan's blog, Walking Nature Home. And while you're there, check out her other writing. It's always a treat!

Happy trails,

bobbi c.

Revolutionalize your lawn!

My friend Susan Tweit, over on her Walking Nature Home blog, has written an eloquent post in her recent LIGHTEN UP series that really resonates with me. I'll admit it---I hate lawns! Not only are they a huge energy suck in so many ways, but they are also a huge waste of our precious water resources and they aren't very friendly to wildlife or beneficial insects.

While you're reading Susan's post, think about ways that you can start to eliminate your own lawn. You don't have to rip the whole thing out overnight...you can start with a little strip removed along the street. Several of my neighbors are taking my example and doing that. Although some of their plant choices aren't great for this searing heat, at least part of the grass is gone and it's a good start. I was lucky in that my lawn was almost non-existent when we moved in, and since then, the drought (and the fact that I refuse to water lawns) has lead to the demise of most of the grass here. Except for the Devil Bermuda Grass, of course, which is a whole different story! LOL.

Happy trails from HOT Texas!

Dig it!

bobbi c.

Walking Nature Home...blogs I love

Dear friends,

I find so many inspirational garden, design & food blogs out there that I love, and follow. As of today, I'm going to start posting a new feature on some of these blogs I love.

Today's blog is from my Colorado friend Susan Tweit, author of WALKING NATURE HOME, a touching memoir about her life's journey and her connection to nature along the way. Her blog by the same name celebrates living a green and generous life. And this woman practices what she preaches; she's probably the most generous person I've met in a very, very long time. I feel honored to call her my friend.

Take a look at her blog, buy a copy of her book, and do a little celebrating of your own.


Happy trails...

And don't forget...Buy organic, grow organic, and demand organic!

bobbi c.

There ARE Too Many of Us

My friend, Susan Tweit, has written an important and insightful article in the High Country News about over-population. I urge you to read it, and forward the link to others.

And if you enjoy Susan's writing, check out her blog and website. Be sure to check out the photos of her gardens and industrial site renovation and podcasts while you're there.

Happy trails,

bobbi c.