Spring has sprung (& the victory garden challenge)

Yes Jean, I hate to tell you, but here in Southern California we are sunny. We are 80 degree (F). Spring is now officially here.

And to celebrate this joyful occassion, this morning I started planting the garden. (A small start using the seeds we already have).


Not impressed yet? Well that's some pretty fine dirt. Hiding below that dirt are spinach, cilantro, and lettuce seeds.

These we can all do successfully from seed right in the garden. We tend to buy seedlings for other things (like broccoli) as I have a tendency to kill the little ones when we try to start them inside.

And the bonus, we still have some little lovelies left over from last year in the garden. Sage...

and chives (and some nasturtium for good measure ... nice flowers that can be eaten).


Our fruit trees are also doing fabulously well. You may remember that we planted these just a few short weeks ago.

The apples are covered with blooms, this one being the most proficient.


And the peaches are really on fire too.

Even one of our late producing apples has started setting leaves and blooms.

You have to love spring -- even if you don't enjoy the springing forward of DST (which my body does not honestly care for much)!

Have you thought about trying to plant veggies this year? You should. Part of my planting inspiration this morning came from visiting Lolly's blog. She reminds me that sustainability is one of my goals and I shouldn't forget that in the business of life. If you haven't read it, check out The Omnivore's Dillemma by Michael Pollan or check out this blog (the Urban Homestead) written by a family in Pasadena who live sustainably and grow a tremendous amount of food on the property around their city house. I've even joined the 100 foot diet (victory garden) challenge.

Here's the description for the challenge:
"If you want to fight against peak oil, climate change and our consumerist culture, then join us and start a living protest right in your own back (front) yards. Be the change, live the solution! Use your yard (or balcony or porch steps) not only to grow food but also to cultivate a healthier and more fulfilling life."

Sounds good to me!

Come on... join in on the fun!