April 20, 2009

Just when you thought it was safe to go into the garden!

Well, the snow finally started melting up here in the great frozen north last week. I could see the seed heads of last year's plantain in the driveway! A sure sign that Spring was on the way!

Then, last night, we got 6 inches of snow in a late April snowstorm. These are common here in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, so it was no great surprise to any of us. I haven't seen the 200 pound black bear that frequents the "feeding area" in the back, so I think he knows something the rest of us don't!

I have to admit I was a little disappointed to wake up to winter white again. I am SO ready for the bulbs to start blooming and to get digging in the dirt. But those of us who know don't even think about putting our gardens in until the end of May. I can get by with some cold weather crops like lettuce, arugula and spinach if I put the lids on the raised boxes and treat them as cold frames. But anything serious has to wait until the end of May or risk being lost to a late season snow storm.

Classes are going well and I went to Munising on Thursday to do an Introduction to Herbalism. The class was well attended and we had a lively discussion. It's one of my favorite things to do. Keep watching for notices about upcoming online classes. That's something I hope to offer this year.

While you're looking, don't forget to stop by the Apothecary for some herbal elixirs to help with those seasonal allergies. May will soon be here and that's when the "yoopers" head for their camps. Our Campers Bar and Bugger Off are two MUST HAVES for camping and summer fun.

Hopefully, the next time you hear from me, I'll have GREEN news to report! (Like sprouts in the garden!)

Until next time,

Karen