Spring Teaser

With temperatures being in the 80's today, I'm having a difficult time believing we still have a chance for a freeze. I know in Texas the weather can change within 24 hours, except in the summer where temps are hot and hotter. Judging by the plants in the garden, Spring is right around the corner. Here is a look at what is blooming or budding in the garden today.

Lavender Lady Passionflower Vine

Bulbine

Knockout Rose

There were lots of bees and butterflies flying around. The broccoli blooms are buzzing with bees. This my first attempt at growing broccoli. It bolted way before I was really able to enjoy it. I was glad to learn the bees like the flowers from Ally at Garden Ally.

There are SO many bees that I decided to get them a house. The purchase was inspired from Jenny's  at Rock Rose adorable Bee House.

Purchased this bee house from Shades of Green in San Antonio, TX

Lovely Swallowtail butterfly enjoying the Vincas.

I chased this one around the garden to take its picture.

Construction begins on Wren's nest

Last year I put up some Spring floral wreaths on our front door the day after Valentine's day. I thought it might be a little early for Spring wreaths on the front door, however the Wrens were thrilled and immediately started building their nest. This year it seems so early to put up the Spring wreaths seeing as it is just the beginning of February. Since the weather has been so wacky with temps in the mid 70's, I decided to put the wreaths out. Sure enough the Wrens started construction right away. I knew they were looking for places to nest since my husband found them flying around the garage and checking out the Christmas wreaths. I guess I would rather have them nest on the front door then in the garage. 

Here is a look at the nest they constructed last year:

They love to use the peat moss I have in my orchid pots. They did such an excellent job building this nest that another family of Wrens moved in right after the first fledglings took flight. The construction site can be a bit messy, and we will not be able to come and go through the front door for a while, but it will be well worth it when the baby wrens are born.

View of the Veggie Garden

I realized that I have not posted any pictures of our veggie and herb garden lately. I have already had to replant some lettuce that had decided to bolt with these warm temps. The broccoli is blooming and the bees are all over it! The highs are predicted to be in the mid 70's this weekend and next week. Makes the wonder if Spring is already here. 

This lovely nasturtium bloom is the only bloom I have on this healthy looking plant.

Here is a list of plants currently growing in our garden:

Collards
Broccoli
Kale (2 varieties)
Brussels sprout
Mustard Greens
Arugula
Lettuce 
Red veiened sorrel (just planted)
Corn mache (just planted)
Swiss chard
Spinach (what is left after the bugs ate it)
Winter herbs (parsley, dill and cilantro)


 We have only had to use the frost cloth twice this past year.