All in the family

I learned today that Fenugreek is in the pea family.  I neighbored it up with the hyacinth bean vine that is to shape the vine tepee.

I was a bit distressed to discover that they are spraying outside today.  I was told it was done regularly, but there is something about my tiny new shoots and the seeds I've only recently planted being faced with the presence of 'the spray' that sends a shiver of dread right through me.  I try not to let it linger as I don't want my wee little greenies to be afraid.  I think how glad I am of the fence and how, to an extent, I can keep them safe and raise them as I see fit from within it.

This morning, according to the Biodynamic calendar, we transitioned from a leaf day to a fruit day.  After watering all my plants, I set about the task of cutting up the red pepper that has been slowly drying on my counter for weeks.  I separated a section of the seeds and when fruit time rolled around, started them in some of the as yet empty seed containers.

I was surprised and delighted when looking over the pots that remain dormant, that in fact, my oregano had begun to sprout!  Such iddy-bitty sprouts.  Next year when I plant my herbs I hope to have dedicated pots in which to start each.  I hesitate even now to think of transplanting them, some seem to have sprouted right along the edge of the pulp pot - without regard for or need for soil!  On the other hand, at this early stage, I wonder if their roots would ever be strong enough to work their way through the pulp pot were I to plant it whole into a larger container.  I suppose I may be underestimating the oregano and I should simply soak the pulp pot when I do transfer it.  Any advice on the matter would be welcome.

Whirly-gigs

I came home at lunch today, late in the afternoon.  I hadn't been home long when I heard a loud banging on the side of the house.  I went out to discover the maintenance man raising a ladder to the roof.
I greeted him and asked what he was up to today.  He informed me that with the maples dropping their seed pods, the gutters were getting clogged and that this was the last one to be cleaned out.  I thanked him for his efforts and went back inside to see about lunch.

I left the sliding glass door open, but closed the screen, to let fresh air in, but also to keep an ear out as he was working on the roof... just in case.  I quickly had to close the glass door though as hundreds of whirly-gigs fell from above, along with dust and whatever else had been settled into the gutters.

He couldn't have known how much care I took in cleaning out my beds the day before, or in sweeping, not just the patio, but even the stones of my garden.  I was a bit alarmed, but thankful, when he entered the back gate and with a leaf blower, cleared the majority of the gutter mess from my steps and patio.

Note to self:  next year, get a smaller gauge netting with which to cover the beds... but in any case, count on the invasion of the whirly-gigs!