April 2014 -Growing Little Green Thumbs, Article 26
Written by Ruby Haydock-DeLoach
Wildflowers, a Work in Progress
The lamb days in March before the spring season entertain us with the emergence of daffodils, white blooms of plum and pear trees, and just the new green leaves emerging on bare branches. I began this painting of wildflowers and find it a joyful experience to see what the painting muse brings to each painting session. Then, I saw seed packets of wildflowers 2/$1; and I thought, “Why not?” The emerging mysteries of a mixed packet of seeds are going to be wild, summer surprises.
It is no secret that wildflowers are perfect cut flowers for a table decoration. They are free, long-lasting, prolific in blooms, and will self seed once established. Select a sunny and well drained location. Prepare the soil by raking it to the depth of the tins of the rake. After danger of frost has passed, broadcast the seeds over the planting area and rake lightly into the soil. The April showers will keep the soil moist; however, if April turns fickle and dries up all the rain, keep the seedling moist for 4-6 weeks. The roots will become established and large enough to draw moisture from the soil. Watch your garden spot and determine if you need a fake owl or a rubber snake to keeps the birds from eating your seeds in a Scratch & Eat Salad. Most wildflowers grow to a height of one to 3 feet. Some of the seeds may be bi-annual, bloom every other year, and will appear next year.
Join Ruby for the debut of her third book, Appalachian Mornings. In April, she invites you to visit her Art Party Studio at 152 Dutchman Shores Circle during Spring Open House (Call 803-345-2134 for Appointment). April 17-26 is Chapin’ Spring Open House. She will be signing books at Palmetto Fine Arts, 107 Virginia St., Chapin, SC. Ruby will be looking for her Growing Little Green Thumbs readers at the Opening Reception Thursday, April 17 from 6PM-8PM. May 17-18 her books will be for sale at the 2014 SC Book Festival.
