Yes, we've had a mild winter and early spring, Tom.

I worked outside some today and will work out there some more, even though it's almost too warm. Actually, the humidity is what's making it uncomfortable - 80 degrees isn't hot.

Maybe you'll get some caterpillars soon!

Sherry

Hi Tom,

Spring has sprung early here as well...we had a very mild winter. Glad to hear that you're seeing so many butterflies already. I have never seen a gold rim, what are their host plants? Sounds as if this will be another banner year for butterfly viewing.

So you had more Orioles arrive? In addition to the ones that you had all winter? That's great!

And hummers and martins....that's awesome.

I'm anxious to see what I can attract once I start getting my gardens in when I move down to Englewood this weekend. Planning on a butterfly/hummingbird garden and a succulent garden to get my 40 some potted plants in the ground since I'll be in zone 10a.

Thanks for sharing,

Rhonda

Rhonda, please let us know how the move goes. I know it is an exciting and stressful time for you. I hope things go well--things almost never go smoothly during a move, but if you persevere things should turn out ok.

Thanks Tom! I appreciate your concern. Yesterday was supposed to be my last day at work but I felt as if I was leaving a few things undone so I went into work today...pro bono :) So, I didn't arrive in Englewood til 9:45 tonight. I'll keep you updated. Good night.

Rhonda

A humming bird moth. Very cool.

Congrats on your move, Rhonda! You'll likely be seeing some interesting butterflies and moths.

That hummingbird moth is, more specifically, a nessus sphinx moth - 'adorable!

Sherry

Thanks Sherry! Yesterday I rented a big tiller and tilled an 18' by 32' quarter circle bordered by the house on one side and the lanai on the other side. Pulled and raked all the weeds and shells that were dug up. Today, spread 40 bags of composted soil and tilled in (pulling up more shells) and finally raked the area to even it out.

Tonight I drew up the plant plans and tomorrow and Sunday I will be going to plant sales at Leu Gardens and Wekiva to pick up host and nectar plants.

Finally, will get busy planting and marking the path and mulching. Of course...need a nice Adirondack chair and small table for relaxing and a few shepherds hooks and hummingbird feeders.

I hope it ends up somewhat matching my vision....build it and they will come.

Rhonda

You have an amazing amount of energy, Rhonda. Let us know how the garden progresses.

Tom,

After this week I have discovered that while I still have the energy I don't have the back for it anymore. This old body is feeling it lol.

Just left Wekiva plant sale (not much there...did get 2 nice bottlebrush) and heading to Leu. Hope there's still some good plants left.

Rhonda

Just leaving Leu...got passion vine, Dutchman's pipe vine, couple pentas lancelota. I already have several tropical milkweeds, salvia Phyllis' fancy, lion's ear. Still need to get Mexican sunflower, lantana, honeysuckle, cassia...

Tom,

I hope to have my garden done by tomorrow afternoon. I'll start a new post with before, during and after pics soon.

Rhonda

Looking forward to seeing the pics, Rhonda. I'm sure they will be detailed and of excellent quality--like your pics in the past.

Yes, we all like those pictures, Rhonda!

Sherry

Thanks Tom and Sherry! I appreciate the compliment.

Rhonda