Oh how far the rather drab coneflower has come, simple little purple coneflower, Echinacea purpurea. Once merely the love child of native plant enthusiasts and plant ecologists she now graces the cover of nearly every plant catalog like the “it” supermodel of the plant kingdom.
I’m sorry. I know I’m supposed to be used to whatever nature throws my way. But really, 90-plus degrees in June? That’s just hateful. Hateful. I live in Indiana. I know the deal. It can be freezing one night and 80 a day or two later. I know to accept the weather. I – know – to – accept – the – weather. Knowing and doing ain’t always in sync. I love my tropicals and summer annuals and this weather is ideal for them. I want big bananas. I need big banana heat. The fact is though, normal June temps of 80 or so are just fine for growing bananas. I’m not freakin’ Carmen Miranda trying to grow a new hat.
You may remember that in my last blog I reported the imminent arrival of our honeybees. They are here – the drones, the workers, and of course, Her Royal Majesty, the Queen. They are quite active already. I can see them flying in and out of the hive from my office window. Chad chose a spot along the old Interurban railroad line that is nice and sunny.
It’s also generally out of view to some degree and less likely to be disturbed by staff and visitors. The bees are not aggressive but if you mess with them they are defenders of their territory. The honey is so sweet but the stinger is so sharp.
Tuesday Chad did the first inspection of the hive. This requires a wee bit of prep. You don’t go in with street clothes, at least not the first time. Here’s Chad all suited up for the inspection. Notice the smoker at his feet. The smoke calms the bees somehow. Maybe that explains why so many humans are addicted to cigarettes.
For annuals we are in the transition period between Spring and Summer. In fact, the Summer annuals arrived this week so you will soon see the pansies disappearing and the zinnias, petunias, and lantana appearing.
It’s always a bit of a mad dash to do the change-outs. As soon as that is done the dahlias and other summer blooming bulbs need to get in the ground and then we just wait for the 80+ degree temperatures (though I prefer 72 with a gentle breeze).
Wow, this blog is practically writing itself. Friday, May 8 is National Public Gardens Day. Here’s the info we provided the local media. It pretty much covers everything.
National Public Gardens Day at the IMA
Friday, May 8
1–5 p.m.
Throughout the IMA Gardens and Grounds
Free
National Public Gardens Day is a national day of celebration to raise awareness of America’s public gardens and their important role in promoting environmental stewardship and awareness, plant and water conservation, and education in communities nationwide. Visitors may stop by the IMA gardens for a full afternoon of events, including a demonstration on creating high-impact container displays and shopping discounts at the Madeline F. Elder Greenhouse and guided tours of springtime blooms in the IMA gardens. Visitors may stop by the orchard on the grounds of Oldfields, which is currently being renovated to include heirloom fruits and vegetables popular in gardens of the early 20th century. The Museum’s knowledgeable horticulture staff will be available throughout the day to offer gardening tips and answer questions.
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