Joys indeed: I've never seen the rosechafers as bad as they are this year. But take heart at the thought of all the poisons you're not dumping in the environment.

By the way, I'm enjoying the Gallica thread in particular, as I free my own roses from the smothering grass and bedstraws. Re 'Belle de Crécy', I found that in the years since I planted a scrap of it, it has increased impressively, though as a low, thin-stemmed rose, it was fairly buried. It always struggled in its previous, impossible spot.

Melissa Northern Italy zone 8

It’s always something asserting itself in the garden, yes? But that is the way of micro ecosystems, always something emerging, jostling and growing bold and full of itself.

I’m so glad you are enjoying the annual Gallica thread! I think of you and yours as my OGRs awaken each spring, especially as the Gallicas begin their display, oh kindred spirit. BdC is a lovely, lovely thing! I am so happy it is thriving and increasing for you in and around the grasses. I have kept mine, along with Charles de Mills, potted up. Like the loopworms, they are bold and full of themselves, albeit much more appreciated!

I have enjoyed reading your most recent post! It truly feels like a smaller and more intimate world as I follow along with your stories of love and labor in your Italian garden and roll up my sleeves in my own patch of earth in the PNW. Carol

At least the looper was a polite little bugger. It devoured (mostly just) the stamens on one bloom…

…but left the other blooms for others to enjoy.

Stamens must be a caterpillar delicacy! Who knew?

It's so interesting!