Sunless Saturday

The birds were chirping furiously this morning, lending false hope of a gloriously sunny day. Instead we've had a steady drizzle that has quashed any chance of sneaking out to the garden before a late brunch and dinner plans snatch away the rest of the afternoon.

I was resigned to snapping some photos from within the confines of the home. All the hyacinth are blooming, now, including those in the pot nearest the back door. You catch subtle wafts of their perfume when coming and going.

The Japanese Maple 'Emperor I' on the deck is starting to bud, but today I felt the raindrops collecting on its slender limbs were more appealing. This tree has been moved many times and continues to thrive, regardless of its treatment. I have another maple of the Laceleaf variety that isn't doing as well, thanks to the dogs.

Karen at Greenwalks advised I double check the pollination requirements on beans as they may usually need a little help (bees or a patient gardener). Since they're inside for now that would leave me to do the delicate work. However, a quick Internet search turned up the International Seed Saving Institute, which has a handy page for beginning seed savers.

Beans are one of the five vegetables that have the best chance at successful seed saving, according to the site. The others are lettuce, peas, peppers and tomatoes. Beans specifically "produce seed the same season as planted and are mostly self-pollinating, minimizing the need to be mindful of preventing cross-pollination." Check that task off the list. Thanks for the tip though, Karen. I would have never known about the easy seeds!

I think we'll soon have some color in the narrow bed along the catwalk. The tulip and daffodil buds are getting really fat. These were planted last fall and I'm anxious to see exactly what they look like.