Pruning the Balcony Flower Baskets

We have three small coco lined “window” baskets that hang from the chair backs on our balcony. We aren’t allowed to put anything on the glass rails so this was a reasonable option - if you like flowers and keep the space open on the floor. Earlier in the spring we planted a few annuals along with the ivy and liriope leftover from the fall and winter Christmas decor. It was satisfying to see that the perennials survived! The red begonia continues to do well, but the gerbera daisy and the zinnia need attention - aside from the daily waterings. Since they sit on the west side of the building the flowers are exposed to intense sun and heat. So yesterday I decided it was time to prune back the well worn flowers - and hope that they start to come back. It was the second time to snip down the daisies, but the first to clip back the long lasting zinnia. It has two buds that I hope will continue to grow. We always had a garden snd this one meets the need - and it’s just so nice to nurture and switch up for the seasons. 

Spring on the National Mall

Even though it is only 45 degrees with blustery winds, the national mall is getting prepped for spring. Everywhere we looked today there was tree pruning and branch clean up going on. The workmen were in the trees, on the sidewalks, and everywhere there were unsightly branches. Sidewalks were cordoned off so as not to interfere with the progress. At the Smithsonian gardens, signs of the anticipated season were showing... the magnolia buds were starting to burst with greenery. At the US Botanical Garden, the gardeners were sprucing up the flower beds and the mulch was being delivered in hoses attached to very large trucks. This activity reminded us that our little patio garden needs a lot of attention this year, especially since the blizzard wrecked most of what was standing upright. I used to have a lot of energy for planting but find myself more in the mood to have someone else do it. Regardless, it's so nice to have another spot to relax and smell the roses, even if it takes a bit more energy to keep it going.