The Flower Planters & Pal 2023

Petunias are happy this year.

Not sure if this is sage or catnip 

Round 2 foot shape in clumps.

In the ground, not a planter.

Anyone recognize it?

These two photos (above, below) are the same planter taken at different angles.

A larger view of the unknown plant, lots of spikes with numerous flowers, long bloomer.

The other planter isn't as fast to bloom. It has longer shade and open exposure to deal with. The lobelia are the only plant in there producing well so far.

Dusty Miller & Bee Nests

 

1 July 2022, Dusty Miller

In July 2015, while sitting on the deck enjoying the outdoors, I happen to see a bee with a tiny ball of fuzz in its mouth. Ah ha! The reason is revealed that Dusty Miller is losing the white fuzz/tomentum on its leaves because bees harvest the tomentum to line their nests! (blog post, 15 July 2015)

Since then, I have noticed a decrease in the harvesting of tomentum, (for the years I planted Dusty Miller). Bee sightings have also decreased along with fewer Monarch Butterflies. 

This year I am hopeful with more flowers around, the garden residents will increase. Fireflies appear to be doing well, but not in great numbers.

A Summer garden needs its magical creatures. 

How is your garden doing so far?

Bee Nest Building & Dusty Miller

Bees will remove the white hairy leaf covering (tomentum) on Dusty Miller to use in nest building.

Bee actually seen moving around the center leaf on a white ball of stuff, and then fly away with it. Huh?

A few Googles later...learn something new every day. Amazing.