#Flower Care Guide

[ashleyscottgardening]

Martha Washington Geranium: Expert Guide to Growing and Care

[honeytonedhottie]

honey's guide to spring⋆.ೃ࿔*:･🪷

i've been preparing this post for a while bcuz i LOVE spring and for this spring i just wanna embody feminine, fairy, dream-like beauty in my day-to-day this spring, and just enjoy it fully.

THE MOOD FOR SPRING : planting new seeds, fresh fruit, and bouquets of flowers. tea parties and floral prints and perfumes. green grapes, hibiscus tea and waking up early to see the sunrise.

PREPARATION FOR SPRING : stock up on your favorite fruits and teas. if u want fruits that are in season, the fruits in season during spring include strawberries, cherries, blueberries, kiwis, bananas and nectarines. my favorite spring time tea is hibiscus and i love a good matcha during all seasons but especially spring, and lastly a good citrus tea is always something that i enjoy.

if ur someone who experiences rly bad allergies during the spring make sure that u go to ur doctors for a check up, and make sure that u have everything that you'll need to combat allergies.

THE PLAYLIST : a good playlist is always essential so my spring playlist consists of : eternal sunshine - jhene aiko. はるなつあきふゆ - ichiko aoba. afterglow - luna li. pisces - yerin baek. fairy of shampoo - TXT. scenery - red velvet. hydrangea love - TXT. cool with you - newjeans. salad days - iiso. pov - ariana grande. lyricist - heize.

REFRESH : time for spring cleaning both mentally and physically. analyze what habits are nourishing u and which habits are drying you out. analyze ur space and do a deep cleaning, that way u can feel lighter both mentally and physically.

wash ur sheets, maybe even buy fresh sheets (floral printed sheets for spring ofc)

go thru ur closet and put the winter and autumn clothes towards the back and bring the spring clothes where they're more accessible and visible

deep clean ur room and clean ur house -> get onto clean-tok for some cleaning motivation cuz watching videos of people cleaning and organizing always motivates me to do so too

create new pinterest boards and delete ones that u dont use, or if u want to, create a completely new pinterest account. i've grown attached to my pinterest account so i won't delete it, but i've made lots of other accounts on separate devices

oftentimes we forget to clean what we use the most, and that buildup can cause our tools to be counterproductive, and just carry a lot of unnecessary germs so here are some things not to forget to clean and organize ;

behind ur ears

ur earbuds or headphones

ur skincare tools and devices (gua shas, face rollers)

ur phone screen

ur folders, binders, and folders

CULTIVATING CREATIVITY :

create something - do some painting, start a sketchbook, start dabbling in some poetry, maybe write a short story, cultivate an elite playlist etc etc

connecting with nature - go and get some fresh air, wake up earlier than usual to watch and enjoy the sunrise. drink different teas that you've never tried before, go to a local crystal shop if ur into that, make urself an elaborate platter of ur favorite fruits. go for a walk in the park, pick flowers and speaking of flowers, go and buy urself a pretty bouquet.

create a spring-time mood board

TENDING THE GARDEN OF THE MIND :

ofc i MUST talk about the mind in any of my posts bcuz its just so incredible. but what you think matters!! what u think manifests! the thoughts that u continue to water and entertain are what you will experience. therefore when u change ur thoughts and water the seeds of the new thought, you'll get a new flower.

its like gardening. your thought is the seed, and ur mind is the soil. when u entertain ur thoughts ur watering the seed, and you'll get a new flower, the flower is the new experience. so this spring, plant new thoughts and entertain those thoughts ✨

FUN SPRING-LIKE THINGS :

picking flowers -> buying yourself a bouquet

have a tea party by yourself or with friends (reference my tea party post if u need some inspo)

make a bracelet or anklet out of flowers

take a bath and infuse the bath with things like rose petals, rose scented bath milks etc

crystal shopping (last year i added amethyst to my crystal collection, this year i'd love to add selenite into my collection)

watch a 90's anime (i've watched sailor moon about a MILLION times and im gonna rewatch it again this year bcuz its just the girliest, best anime i've watched and is one of my favorites)

so i hope that this post sparked some ideas on ways that u can enjoy your spring girlies ✨

[sergle]

Hey Sergle, how does one learn how to draw? Like, I am in my 20s, can barely draw a stick figure, and feel overwhelmed whenever I try to look up tutorials. Do you have any advice on how to start?

my Unprofessional advice on how to start in earnest, is to do it the way little kids do when they start learning to draw! which is to not approach it as learning at all. sitting down and scribbling out whatever comes to mind, reading a book or watching a movie and trying to copy the way the characters are drawn. draw a page full of cats. do it while you watch tv. doing all that w/o the Grown Up impulse to be embarrassed that you're new at a skill.

[vetripetraraani]

2024 - Vision Board

Disclaimer: Pictures do not belong to me.

With gratefulness for achieving all my goals last year, here are my aspirations for the year ahead 🙏🏽:

Stay physically active

Become a good student

Work on my talents

Read widely

Love myself even more

Continue my Duolingo streak

Volunteer and do more good for society

Embrace my femininity even more

[otacringe]

MY PARENTS GOT ME A FUCKING VENUS FLYTRAP LET'S GOOOOOOOOOO

[mylittleredgirl]

I hope you start feeling better 💖

this is so cute 🥹 and so perfect actually!!

the vertigo i’m having gets worse when lying down, which is encouraging me to stay vertical longer once i make it to standing… so it may actually be making me more productive than when i was just exhausted without the vertigo. i’m making small progress at reviving my plants ���� which makes me feel more like myself.

[yardenercom]

How to create a summer garden that attracts pollinators

Are you wondering how to create a summer garden that attracts pollinators? 🌻🐝 Check out our infographic with simple steps to get started! Save it, share it, and use it to transform your garden into a pollinator paradise.

Looking for more resources on gardening? Head over to www.yardener.com and browse our collection of resources. We update regularly, so be sure to save our website for future reference. We offer a variety of content, including infographics, articles, and tips to help you create a thriving garden ecosystem. Check it out today!

[auutumn]

so for context, i was writing in my notes what architectural designs from different cultures & eras i associate with the courts, and i concluded that i like gothic germanic for the autumn court, so it would actually be neat to emphasize the gothicism!!!

i associate the forest house with brandenburg's castles; the major cities are a more baroque, viennese style, but the countryside? wild autumn is haunted groves and ghosts roaming the village houses. fog and mist. leaves shuffling with hidden creatures, helhonds and attorcropes. the wheat fields sway with the winds, beckoning you. the vineyards pulse with mischief. the land is built on bones. you are lost in the woods. there is something in the grass, and it knows your name. there are beasts hidden between the decaying branches of the trees, skohsls and wichts. carved pumpkins whose eyes seem to trace your every move as you stalk through the endless maze of corn. critters scurrol to their dens. the scarecrows hum a foreign tune. the deer know something you do not. the birds croon a mournful, melancholic lament. autumn is in perpetual transition. everything is dying, and everything is living.

[hydaelynsecho]

tag dump. 1/X ???

[androdconstruction]

Seasonal Garden Maintenance: A Comprehensive Guide for the Bruce Peninsula

Gardening is more than just a hobby; it's a commitment to creating and maintaining a beautiful and functional outdoor space. In the Bruce Peninsula, where the landscape is naturally stunning, seasonal garden maintenance is crucial for preserving the beauty of your property year-round. 

Why Seasonal Garden Maintenance Matters

The changing seasons in the Bruce Peninsula bring diverse weather conditions that can significantly impact your garden. Proper seasonal maintenance helps:

Enhance Plant Health: Regular care ensures plants remain healthy and resilient against diseases and pests.

Improve Aesthetic Appeal: Consistent maintenance keeps your garden looking tidy and attractive throughout the year.

Increase Property Value: A well-maintained garden can boost your home's curb appeal and overall property value.

Support Local Ecosystems: By caring for your garden seasonally, you contribute to the local ecosystem, promoting biodiversity.

Spring: Preparing for Growth

Spring is the season of renewal. As the snow melts and temperatures rise, your garden begins to wake up. Here's how to prepare your garden for a successful growing season:

Cleanup:

Remove dead leaves, branches, and debris that have accumulated over winter.

Prune shrubs and trees to encourage new growth and prevent disease.

Soil Preparation:

Test your soil's pH and nutrient levels to determine what amendments are needed.

Add compost or organic matter to enrich the soil and improve drainage.

Consider aerating the soil to promote root growth.

Planting:

Start planting cool-season vegetables like lettuce, spinach, and peas.

Plant bulbs, perennials, and shrubs that thrive in spring, such as daffodils, tulips, and lilacs.

Mulching:

Apply a fresh layer of mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Use natural mulches like wood chips or straw, which are beneficial for the environment.

Summer: Sustaining Growth

Summer is the time to enjoy your garden's beauty, but it's also when maintenance is most demanding due to the heat and rapid plant growth.

Watering:

Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation.

Deep water plants encourage strong root systems, especially in dry periods.

Use drip irrigation systems or soaker hoses for efficient watering.

Weeding:

Regularly remove weeds to prevent them from competing with your plants for nutrients and water.

Consider using organic weed control methods, such as hand-pulling or applying natural herbicides.

Pest Control:

Monitor plants for signs of pests like aphids, caterpillars, and beetles.

Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control pest populations naturally.

Use organic pesticides as a last resort to minimize harm to the environment.

Fertilizing:

Apply a balanced fertilizer to support continued growth and flowering.

Focus on slow-release fertilizers that provide nutrients over an extended period.

Deadheading and Pruning:

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms and prevent seed production.

Prune shrubs and trees to maintain their shape and remove any diseased or damaged branches.

Fall: Preparing for Dormancy

As temperatures cool and daylight hours shorten, your garden begins to wind down. Fall is the time to prepare your garden for winter and the following spring.

Final Harvest:

Harvest the last of your summer vegetables and fruits.

Consider planting cool-season crops like kale and carrots for a late-season harvest.

Soil Care:

Rake fallen leaves and add them to your compost pile or use them as mulch to protect your soil.

Plant cover crops like clover or rye to prevent soil erosion and improve soil fertility.

Planting:

Plant spring-blooming bulbs like tulips and crocuses before the ground freezes.

Consider planting trees and shrubs in the fall, as cooler weather reduces transplant shock.

Mulching:

Add an extra layer of mulch to insulate plant roots from freezing temperatures.

Focus on areas with tender perennials or young plants that need extra protection.

Winterization:

Drain and store hoses, garden tools, and irrigation systems to prevent damage from freezing.

Protect sensitive plants with burlap or frost covers to shield them from harsh winter conditions.

Winter: Rest and Reflection

Winter in the Bruce Peninsula can be harsh, with heavy snow and freezing temperatures. While your garden may be dormant, there are still essential tasks to consider.

Planning:

Take this time to plan next year's garden layout, considering what worked well and what didn't.

Research new plant varieties, garden designs, and landscaping trends.

Tool Maintenance:

Sharpen and clean garden tools to ensure they're ready for use in the spring.

Perform maintenance on lawnmowers, trimmers, and other equipment.

Snow Management:

Be mindful of heavy snow accumulation on shrubs and trees, as it can cause branches to break.

Gently remove snow from plants if needed, but avoid shaking branches, which can cause damage.

The Importance of Professional Help

While many garden maintenance tasks can be done on your own, hiring a professional landscaping service in the Bruce Peninsula has several advantages:

Expertise: Professionals understand the local climate, soil conditions, and plant species best suited for the area.

Time-Saving: With busy schedules, many homeowners appreciate the convenience of professional maintenance.

Customization: Landscaping services can tailor their maintenance plans to meet your garden's specific needs.

Bruce Peninsula’s Landscaping Services: A Trusted Partner

Seasonal garden maintenance is essential for keeping your outdoor space healthy, beautiful, and enjoyable throughout the year. Whether you're tackling these tasks on your own or seeking help from Bruce Peninsula's landscaping services, the key is consistency and understanding the needs of your garden in each season. By investing time and effort into your garden's care, you'll reap the rewards of a lush, vibrant landscape that enhances your home's appeal and provides a peaceful retreat.

For expert assistance, And-Rod Construction offers comprehensive garden maintenance programs tailored to the unique needs of the Bruce Peninsula. Our professional team ensures your garden thrives in every season, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy the beauty of your outdoor space. Contact them today to learn more about their services and how they can help you maintain your garden year-round.

[ashleyscottgardening]

How Does Jade Vine Smell? Discover the Scent of This Exotic Beauty

The Jade Vine (Strongylodon macrobotrys) is a stunning plant known for its cascading turquoise blooms, adding an exotic charm to any garden or conservatory. But beyond its vibrant colors and unique appearance, many people wonder: what does the Jade Vine smell like? Let’s explore the scent profile of this botanical marvel and understand how it enhances its allure.

For more insights into the Jade Vine and tips on growing it, visit my in-depth article here!

[anielskaaniela]

Japanese Cherry Blossom Tree: Sakura, Tips & Blossoms

In this post , you will learn on the beauty of Japanese cherry blosson tree. Check out my japanese products [here]. Cherry blossoms, or sakura as they are known in Japan, are more than just beautiful flowers—they are an integral part of Japanese culture and history. These delicate, fleeting blooms have captured the hearts of people worldwide, symbolizing the ephemeral nature of life. Every…

[rumisgf]

❝ THINGS THEY DO THAT GIVE YOU BUTTERFLIES ! ❞ ╰┈➤ MHA EDITION (PART 2!)

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ a/n: y’all wanted a part two i shall give a part two

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ includes: katsuki bakugou, hitoshi shinsou, shoto todoroki, denki kaminari, iida tenya, kirishima eijirou

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ warnings: black!reader obv, cursing, mentions of drug usage/marijuana, suggestive if u squint, fem reader implied, mentioning of babies/children

BAKUGOU KATSUKI

✮ wipes your tears sort of aggressively but only because he’s so urgent to comfort you and take care of you

✮ always hugs you by your lower waist

✮ when you go to the gym together, he’s the type to always say “c’mon, you can do one more.” or “do three more”

✮ ruffles your hair/flicks your forehead in a teasing way

✮ “act right.”/“watch out.”

✮ doesn’t remind you to drink water— he simply justs brings water bottles up to your mouth and tells you to “open up”

✮ if you have any, he cares for your pets like they’re his own

✮ just something about the sight of him holding a baby

✮ bites you just because he can

✮ pulls you into his lap whenever he’s tired of your attitude

✮ gets super close to your face like he’s gonna kiss you but pulls away just to mess with you

✮ “that’s my girl” in the most proud voice ever every single time

TODOROKI SHOTO

✮ any time he does get high he’s all over you and staring at you with half lidded eyes

✮ it’s just something about the way he curses man.

✮ loves falling asleep on the phone with you and takes facetime photos of you sleeping because he thinks you look like an angel

✮ runs his thumb over your hand whenever you hold hands

✮ loves giving earlobe kisses

✮ will casually be like “when we have kids,”

✮ sends voice memos ranging from something funny that happened in class to how much he misses you and needs to see you

✮ kisses your lip gloss off every chance he gets right after complimenting how nice your lip combo looks

✮ sends you pictures of yourself and says “you look so pretty in this”

✮ him whispering in your ear.

✮ has your contact as the only one pinned in his messages

KIRISHIMA EIJIROU

✮ pats away your tears with his finger instead of wiping them (those who watch love island usa and are kordell + serena fans know what i’m talking about)

✮ places his hand on the small of your waist to guide your somewhere or move you out the way

✮ constant forehead kisses

✮ lifts you up and spins you around when he’s excited to hug you

✮ guides you into the right form when you workout together

✮ runs his hands down your waist and hips when he’s checking you out while you’re right in front of him

✮ him around kids. that’s all.

✮ gives you flowers pretty much every week— and one time he gave you a money bouquet for your birthday

✮ flexes for you when he feels you staring at him and pretends he’s not doing it on purpose

✮ throws his arm around you and presses you flush against his chest when you go to sit on the couch next to him

✮ refers to you as his “wife” to his friends

KAMINARI DENKI

✮ you could have been rotting in bed all day and when he facetimes you he always greets you with something along the lines of “hello my beautiful princess” with a lovesick tone of voice

✮ calls you “mama” and “ma”

✮ obsessed with skinship because he aches to be able to “crawl inside your skin” and just needs to be close to you

✮ blows kisses at you from across the room

✮ for comfort, he runs his fingers through your hair and rocks you back and forth while hugging you

✮ his morning voice :)))

✮ lets you bite him and encourages it

✮ gets very touchy when you’re on his lap

✮ the king of “i know you’re probably asleep, but” texts

✮ goes on rants about how gentle and how well he would care for you when you’re one day pregnant with his children

✮ always calling you his “pretty baby”/“pretty girl”

✮ always posts pretty candid pictures of you and makes heartfelt story posts for every birthday, anniversary, and valentine’s day

HITOSHI SHINSOU

✮ has read for you + sung you to sleep on multiple occasions

✮ grabs you by your chin to force eye contact

✮ “say please”

✮ checks you every time you have an attitude with a smirk on his face

✮ has a habit of biting his lip

✮ says “there you go, babe” way too much.

✮ glares at anyone who flirts with you while tightly wrapping an arm around your waist

✮ has made multiple shared playlists for the both of you

✮ says he’s “gatekeeping” you because you’re just too pretty and he has to keep you to himself

✮ plays with your fingers when he’s bored or nervous

✮ buries his face into your neck to bask in your scent when he hugs you

✮ randomly stares at your for a full five minutes when you’re talking, barely listening to a word you’re saying, then lovingly sighs “i love you so much…”

IIDA TENYA

✮ always opens every door for you

✮ holds your hands while walking across the street or through the hallways

✮ very protective over you and will respectfully cuss anybody out who disrespects you

✮ pretty much has replaced your name is his vocabulary with “honey” and “sweetheart”

✮ never calls you hot— he always calls you beautiful, pretty, gorgeous, or stunning

✮ grabs you by your sleeve or your belt loop to take you somewhere if you don’t hear him call your name the third time

✮ the thought of ever calling you his “bitch” disgusts him, he calls you his lady or his love instead

✮ will immediately grab the nearest box of tissues to wipe your tears or your nose whenever you’re crying

✮ kisses your cheek to greet you and say goodbye

✮ has deep conversations about your future together when you get to that point in the relationship, and is open about how much his heart swells at imagining you as a mother

✮ kisses your forehead when he notices you asleep on his chest

© rumisgf

[celestemona]

⋆˙⟡ — FOUR TIMES MUALANI SUSPECTED SOMETHING WAS GOING ON (AND ONE TIME SHE WAS RIGHT)

pairing: kinich x reader

cw: no pronouns mentioned. ajaw is in a vacation. slight but not slight pda. mualani overreacting but she is a sweet. best friends trio. pyro vision reader mentioned. not beta-read.

reblogs and comments are appreciated ♡

Mualani knew Kinich and you were friends—close best friends, just like you two were with her—but lately, she couldn’t shake the feeling that something was off. 

It started with little things, almost too subtle to be noticeable but somehow it didn’t escape from her perception. Things like how Kinich, ever the quiet guy, had begun lingering a little too long when he talked to you, or how you’d run all your way to the Scions of the Canopy's village just to welcome him back after a mission. 

At first, she didn’t pay too much attention thinking you guys were just being more affectionative and caring to each other. However, as time passed by, it has been shown to be more than a mutual friendly appreciation and certainly beyond a mere coincidence. 

I.

The first time Mualani noticed something different was in an early morning by the coast, watching the waves curl and crash. She often started her day stretching at the shore and riding the first waves of dawn. But this time, as she rounded a cliff, she spotted Kinich and you sitting on a rock overlooking the sea. The two of you were close enough that your arms brushed every time the wind picked up.

Kinich’s usual stern expression was softer than usual. Mualani squinted at you suspiciously. Were you... holding hands?

She jogged closer, but just as she got near enough to say something, Kinich quickly stood up, putting a considerable distance between you and himself. “You're up early,” he said, his voice in its usual calm.

You smiled warmly. “Hey girl! How are the waves? We were just discussing about it.”

Mualani tilted her head, narrowing her eyes. “You were? Really?”

You let out a light and confusing laugh, tucking a loose strand of hair behind your ear. “Of course.”

She didn’t quite buy it, but you didn’t give her any reason to push further. “Well, the waves are good today! You guys joining?”

Kinich only gave her a polite headshaking, while you nodded smiling. Maybe she was imagining things.

II.

Except she wasn’t. 

A few days later, you were hanging out by Tequemecan Valley' canyons with Kinich standing quietly while you and Mualani chatted. However, every time she glanced toward him, Kinich seemed to be watching you a little too intently. It wasn’t the usual hunter’s focus; it was softer, caring, almost like... adoring.

The girl squinted, pretending to be interested in some flowers nearby while keeping an eye on you two. You didn’t seem to notice anything, or if did, you didn’t mind. You just kept talking, your laughter filling the air.

When Mualani caught Kinich staring again, she couldn’t help but ask, “Kinich, you okay? You’ve been zoning out all day.”

He blinked, his neutral mask slipping back into place. “I’m fine.”

“He’s just tired from all the training,” you teased, winking at him.

Mualani raised an eyebrow, astonished by the scene before her eyes. Something was definitely going on.

III.

The third time came on a day when Mualani was guiding a group of Sumeru’s travelers near the springs when she spotted you and Kinich again, standing by the water. As she approached, she saw Kinich leaning down to whisper something to you, his lips close to your ear. You giggled softly in response.

Wait a minute... Kinich never whispers to anyone. Much less in such an intimate way and even less to make someone laugh. Mualani's instincts flared up immediately. What was he saying? And why did you look so happy about it?

She cleared her throat loudly as she walked up. “Hey. What are you two whispering about?”

Kinich straightened up quickly, crossing his arms. “Nothing important.”

You smiled at her, but there was a glimmer in your eyes that made the girl even more suspicious. “Just a silly joke,” you said lightly.

A joke, huh? Mualani filed it away in her mind. This time she was very determined to figure out what was going on between you two.

IV.

It was late afternoon, and Mualani had just finished surfing when she saw you two by the waterside. Kinich and you stood close, so close as it has strangely been, and for a brief moment, she could have sworn Kinich was about to lean in and kiss you.

She froze, watching from a distance as you smiled up at him, your palm softly pushing his chest away. Were you two really about to kiss? It couldn’t be just her angle view. Could it be?

But just as quickly as it happened, Kinich stepped back, his usual stoic demeanor falling back into place. You turned and waved at her, your smile as bright as ever.

“Lani. Hey! How was the surf?” you called out.

Mualani, still in shock, shook her head. “Uh... good. Really good.”

She stared at you both for a moment longer, convinced she’d almost witnessed something, but there was no proof. Again.

V.

In the several days that followed, Mualani continued to witness that strangeness that kept repeating itself every time you thought she wasn’t around, creating a certain tension between her and you and Kinich—although she doubted that you had noticed any difference, treating her as you always did from the beginning.

Even if it relieved her to know that nothing had changed in your friendship, the surfer couldn't help but feel upset too. Was it that bad if she found out? Didn't you trust her the same way she trusted you? She wanted to be able to release all of her thoughts and ask you if maybe there was something in your bond that was bothering you. But she didn't. And so, things remained the same.

That was a quiet evening, and the moon hung low over the mountains. Mualani had been taking a stroll, enjoying the peaceful night, when she stumbled upon you.

This time, though, there was no mistaking it—Kinich and you stood together under some trees, locked in a slow, deep kiss.

The girl’s cheeks burned as red as the pyro vision you hold so dear closely, eyes widely opening and heart skipping a beat. She gasped, louder than she intended, and both of you quickly turned toward her. You blinked twice before smiling stiffly, even daring to look a bit embarrassed, while Kinich gave her a calm look, his hands still resting on your waist.

“You two!” She exclaimed shaking her head, “I can’t believe you didn’t tell me earlier! I mean, I knew something was up, but really?”

You bit your lip while Kinich just blinked at her, slightly starting to look more guilty as well.

“We didn’t mean to keep it from you for long,” you said as you stepped out of Kinich’s arms and reached for her hand. “We were just... taking our time.”

Mualani arched an eyebrow. “Taking your time? You two were being so weird and annoying with all those suspicious interactions for weeks now! I’m supposed to be your best friend!”

Kinich rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly, clearly uncomfortable with the attention. “We wanted to keep it quiet,” he said, his voice low. “At first, anyway.”

Mualani softened, her fake scold melting away into genuine affection. “Still, I would’ve loved to know sooner,” she said, her tone gentler now. “You know me better than anyone else. You know I would never judge you,” she sighed as she watches the sorrow on your face. “Nevertheless, I’m really happy for you both. Really am.”

You beamed and even Kinich’s usual stoic expression seemed to relax slightly.

Mualani continued, her voice full of warmth. “I’ve always known you two had something special. And now that I know for sure, you better believe I’m fully on board with this!” She shot Kinich a playful look. “Just make sure you treat (Y/N) right, okay?”

Kinich nodded, his eyes softening as he glanced at you. “I will.”

You squeezed Mualani’s hand, your eyes sparkling with gratitude and pure happiness. “Thank you, Lani. Your support means a lot to us.”

Mualani grinned, pulling you both into a tight hug. “Just don’t keep secrets from me again, alright? I’m always here for you two.”

You all laughed but shared a quick but sweet bond moment, the atmosphere light and easy. And somehow, Mualani couldn’t help but feel like everything had fallen into place just the way it was meant to.

“But just for your information. If the day comes of you get engaged and don’t tell me immediately, I’ll crash the proposal myself, make a huge scene, and tell everyone how long I’ve had to put up with your not so secret glances and not so subtle hand-holding. Trust me, it won’t be pretty!”

[cselandscapearchitect]

Growing Sweet Peas in Phoenix, Arizona: A Blooming Success in the Desert

When you think of Phoenix, Arizona, a lush garden filled with delicate sweet pea flowers might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, with a little know-how and some careful planning, growing sweet peas in the desert climate of Phoenix can be a blooming success. In this blog post, we’ll explore some valuable tips and tricks to help you cultivate these fragrant and vibrant flowers…

[yardenercom]

Pansies, the Cheerful Harbingers of Spring

From the sweet little Johnny Jump Ups to the cute little cat-faced pansies, the plants in the viola family are cheery harbingers of spring. Newer varieties, such as Icicle when planted in the fall, are guaranteed to overwinter and bloom again in spring. These versatile plants are perfect for planting early in the season when frost still threatens. It’s a joy to see their smiling faces peeking through unexpected late spring snowfalls, reassuring us that warm weather is on its way.

Pansy Choices:

Pansy plant choices recommended by Nancy Szerlag our gardening expert:

V. tricolor (Johnny-jump-up): This popular species features purple, white, and yellow flowers, usually in combination. It thrives in gravel.

‘Bowles Black’: With dark purple flowers that appear almost black and a yellow center.

‘Helen Mound’ (‘Helen Mount’): Bears large flowers in the traditional purple, yellow, and white combination.

V. x wittrockiana (Pansy): Comes in various colors, often multi-colored or with face-like markings.

‘Floral Dance’: Popular for spring and fall displays, it's quite cold-hardy with flowers in a variety of solid and multi-colors.

‘Imperial’ series: Bears large flowers in a range of unique colors. For example, ‘Imperial Frosty Rose’ has deep rose-pink centers that gradually pale to white near the edges of the petals.

‘Joker’ series: Features bi-colored or multi-colored flowers with distinctive face markings in various colors.

‘Maxim Marina’: Bears light blue flowers with white-rimmed dark blue blotches at the center and is tolerant of both hot and cold temperatures.

‘Watercolor’ series: A newer group with flowers in delicate pastel shades.

Traditionally, pansies only bloomed in early spring, but now with Icicle Pansies® and Icicle Violas®, you can have a beautiful garden blooming in November and again in March – a double whammy! These easy-to-grow pansies are guaranteed to bloom in the following spring when planted in late summer or early fall.

Planting and Care for Pansies

Pansies thrive when planted in locations with 6 to 12 hours of daily sunlight, spaced 6" to 8" apart, and reaching a height of 6" to 8". Proper care ensures they bloom both in the fall and spring. To get the best results, plant them in fertile, well-drained soil. Be sure to water them and apply all-purpose fertilizer during planting and again in the spring, watering as needed throughout the fall and spring seasons. It's important to avoid locations exposed to strong winds, road salt, or standing water, as this can harm your pansies. These hardy plants might even continue to bloom until snow covers them, appearing dormant in winter only to bloom again when spring temperatures return.

Caring for pansies involves planting seedlings 2-3 weeks before the expected last frost, especially in good soil with organic material. In such cases, they require only light feeding at planting, about half a teaspoon of slow-release granular fertilizer per plant. Regular deadheading promotes more blooms and maintains an attractive appearance. As summer arrives, consider replacing pansies with heat-loving annuals to keep your garden vibrant. You'll find pansies available in garden centers in September, perfect for adding color during the fall and winter months.

In conclusion, Pansies are nature's way of announcing spring's arrival with their vibrant colors and hardiness. Whether you choose traditional or newer varieties, these cheerful flowers bring joy to any garden. To explore common issues that pansies might face, check out this page: Problems Of Pansies

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