Everything’s coming up Roses! And peppers, and more – August, 2016
THAT ROSE GARDEN BOB PROMISED
That rose garden Bob promised is flourishing for the most part. It was dripping with roses at the mid month (photo on left) and Bob expanded it with weed mat, mulch, and deer fence at the end of the month (photo on right.)
We chose to grow hybrid teas organically which is said to be difficult. We keep an eye on them and pick off destructive insects like the notorious Japanese beetle. Three out of four are doing well. From left Stainless Steel, Double Delight, and Fragrant Cloud. Sadly, the fourth rose bush, Chrysler Imperial withered and died for no apparent reason.
DOUBLE DELIGHT IN TRIPLICATE
This rose has a great reputation and does not disappoint. It is hardy, prolific and smells divine. Weeks Roses describes Double Delight’s fragrance as “strong, spicy rose.”
RUNNERS UP
In second place, Fragrant Cloud with what Weeks describes as “strong, sweet spice and rose.” Not as hardy or prolific as Double Delight, but with headier fragrance. Our third survivor, Stainless Steel is holding it’s own with lavender-tinged blooms and a fragrance described as “strong citrus and rose.” Bob reports this one is growing on him but Camille says it smells like gardenia, a scent she is not fond of.
EDIBLE PERENNIALS
Five points for guessing these two edible perennials. Answer at bottom of page.
MORE PERENNIAL FLOWERS
The hydrangea came with the place and we added a gardenia. With so many blooms in the yard, we always have some cut flowers in the house.
NOT MAGIC
We try to make it look as if we just twinkle our noses and our place stays pretty, but the truth is it requires constant maintenance. This month, Bob trimmed up the boxwood hedge in front of the house.
THE RIGHT TOOLS HELP
We are the proud owners of a new commercial grade Raptor SD 42″ zero-turn riding mower which will serve us the rest of our lives. Our next door neighbor, Fred was very happy when we bought the Hustler because he loves his dearly. Now, like Fred, Bob sometimes mows more than once in a week.
PAN PEPPERS
We are so happy Jason and Haruka introduced us to the shishito pepper. They are easy to grow and prepare, just throw them in a hot pan with a little oil, preferably peanut and sesame, cook until wilted, and finish with soy sauce. They are small peppers with big flavor and go with everything, including sandwiches and salads.
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[Troutsfarm] * [August, 2016] * [August Yard and Garden] * [Carl’s World]
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Perennial answer: figs and asparagus