Blog Launch

Good Morning All,

I'm beginning this post by sharing with all who read that I used to be a HUGE social media fan and had accounts on most platforms for over 9 years.  Three years ago, I removed myself from all my accounts except one.  I gave it all up because I was just sick of how poorly people treat each other and how little respect/consideration give their fellow humans (just because they can hide behind a screen).  I'm really hesitant to even start this blog, but I want to chronicle my learning, discoveries, experimentation as I set out on my own self-taught, self-paced masters program in the world of botany.

I have grown indoor plants and gardens since I was a little guy.  It didn't matter if I lived in the desert or the Alaskan permafrost, I HAD to grow things.  I think if I were unable to grow plants and be part of nature's cycle, I would be most unhappy.  I am connected to nature, I love growing and nurturing plants and trees and want to provide every opportunity to build a habitat that is hospitable to our winged bugs and birds.  Plants will give back everything you will give and offer unconditional acceptance.  There is nothing more beautiful and healing than tending to a garden.  The birds, butterflies, bees and other beneficial insects will thank you too.

So, I've decided that I'm going to study, experiment, propagate, graft, air-layer, cross-pollinate, save seeds and get to know mother nature as intimately as I possibly can--and share it here primarily for myself but if it helps anyone else -- that's just a bonus.  All of the things on my Christmas wish-list this year supports this new personal journey.  I'm setting up a lab in my sewing room with grow-lights suspended from the ceiling over a dresser.  I've set up a microscope on the same table as my quilting machine.

This past year I learned some bonsai styling techniques that have really fueled my passion for growing and training small trees.  I now have 16 bonsai in my collection.  I also poured my first concrete foundation and built my first cinder-block retaining wall (for a small annual flower bed); and set posts and built bonsai tables for displaying my creations.  I have designed my first and and am halfway through constructing my first bonsai garden.

I will talking about EVERYTHING that grows... my lawn, vegetable garden, flower gardens (annuals & perennials), outdoor potted plants, indoor plants. 

So, if you care to join me on this journey, feel free enjoy the pics and posts... I welcome your comments and questions and will do my best to respond to all.