Game of Old Maid

When someone asks me what my favorite Spring flower is, it reminds me of the children's card game, Old Maid. I like them all, with the exception of maybe one. OK, never mind - I like them all.


Not sure about your yard and gardens but mine are ahead of the normal on what is coming up. Because I live out where the winter winds refuse to leave quickly in the Spring, my bulbs are usually behind town folks. Maybe it was because of the thick layering of snow most of the winter. Kept the ground wrapped in a good insulating blanket and gave the bulbs a head start.


Tulips, hyacinths, crocus, scillas, daffodils and camassias leaves have all erupted from the ground. Naked Lady lilies, daylilies, iris and other perennials are also up several inches. Some of the vines and bushes have started to leaf out. (Have you brought in a branch of forsythia to force into bloom?)


Another sign of spring is the return of red winged blackbirds and killdeer. A friend said she had three swans on their lake. Most days we hear flocks of geese flying overhead. We make quite a deal about the return of robins but other birds have the same cycle and indicate spring as well. I'll know warmth is here for good when the male gold finches molt into their summer yellow feathers.


I don't get too eager in the Spring to remove mulch, leaves and yard debris. Although most bulbs and perennials are tough, why risk getting them nipped or deformed by a cold snap.


Some things that can be done right now:

• Enjoy the crocus blooming and lightly pull off anything that is shielding them from the sun and view.
• Pick up broken limbs and sticks. If your yard or neighborhood permits, start a brush pile for a small wildlife habitat.
• Cut down clematis vines, butterfly bushes, and hyacinth beans that bloom on new wood/growth.
• Finish trimming fruit trees.
• Put up your cleaned birdhouses.
• Make sure all your eves and downspouts are cleaned and free flowing.
• Wash your porches and lawn furniture. On those warm afternoons, it's a great place to watch the unfolding of yet another summer.
• Repair/repaint any furniture that took a beating this winter.
• And last but not least, take down the Christmas lights and decorations. I know, it's hard and not nearly as exciting as putting them up. But never fear, for those of us who love a little glitz it's almost time to put up those patio lights!