MAKE FRIENDS WITH THE RAIN: How does one do that? Get outside and make it about someone else. It was the Enabling Garden’s second plant sale in three weeks; this one to fund county-wide master gardener projects. Several things were in our favor. There were no downpours, deluges, or strong winds. It was dry during set up and clean up. Only for a brief time did we huddle under tents prior to the start of the sale. Lastly, we’ve obviously developed a good track record with customers; there was a constant stream of interest, and sales went well in spite of the weather.  Thank you fellow gardeners. “Some days you just have to create your own sunshine.”  Quote by Sam Sunquist. 

ORNITH-O-GALUM (Starflower); more commonly known as The Star of Good Hope. This unusual beauty was introduced to the Enabling Garden a couple years ago by Steve and Sharon Nelson-Vaux. Not only does the name attract interest, but it’s display at the plant sales wasn’t your usual potted plant. These tennis ball size bulbs and bulblets sat in individual sacks teasing all customers with a “Try me”. The bulbs MUST stick out of the ground at least 50% to prevent rot developing. It likes full sun and grows to 36” tall. Another plus? It is a long-lasting cut flower. They must be dug in the fall and stored in a frost-free location. Dig at first sign of potential light frost and cut back foliage to 6-8 inches. See attached photo.

ALWAYS LOOKING FOR MORE GARDENERS: Since the season started, I personally have met nine new volunteers. Some were involved in plant sale preparations; others have been showing up on our Tuesday evening work nights; several have elected to take on the responsibility of a new bed.  You all bring personality and heart to the garden and we are so grateful to have you join us. “The most noteworthy thing about gardeners is that they are always optimistic, always enterprising and never satisfied. They always look forward to doing something better than they’ve ever done before.” Quote by Vita Sackville-West

A SMORGASBORD OF ANNUALS: Liken it to an all-you-can-eat buffet; every table and bench was covered with these colorful beauties, and we all dived in to help ourselves. We were so pleased to see so many come out for this event. Even though a week later than planned, I hope everyone noted that very timely and gentle rains arrived ahead of us and softened the soil in preparation for planting. Count every blessing!

“THOSE SAVVY SUCCULENTS!” This is an educational opportunity you won’t want to miss.    Save the date. Tuesday, June 15^th 6:00 PM. Master Gardener Mamta Israni will be bringing succulents with her, and will explain how they are different than other plants. We’ll also learn how to grow and propagate them. Come and be amazed at the marvelous properties and potential of these easy-to-grow plants. If you arrive earlier to work an hour or two, be prepared to lay down the tools and join us. Your own lawn chair is optional.

CHILDREN’S ART IN THE GARDEN: WE NEED EVERYONE! Tuesday, 6:00 PM, July 20^th is the day and we are still in need of five more volunteers.  If interested, please contact Marlene Olson at 515-681-6344 or email at [email protected].  This has always been a very popular event. Because of covid restrictions we were unable to hold this program in 2020. Population in the area has increased, therefore, we are expecting a large turnout of children.

TOGETHER ON TUESDAYS:  This is a weekly reunion and we love it! Keep it noted on your calendar or planner. Plan your arrival around 4:00 PM every Tuesday or whenever most convenient.

VIEWS FROM VISITORS: You’ll often find them in the garden early AM or around sunset, carrying a zoom-lens camera strapped around their neck. I make it a point to introduce myself and inquire if they are members of the Enabling Garden Facebook group. If not, would they consider joining and sharing their photos with us? Sure enough, before the day is over, striking photos appear.

Recently one photographer shared another experience.  He asked me; “Did you know there are mink in the garden?”  He had just observed a mink chasing a very young rabbit.  Yes, mink have been sighted, and most generally in the mornings. I witnessed one jumping out of a four foot high raised bed and then attempting without success to scale up a birdhouse pole.  We owe our thanks for these wildlife interest stories to the city’s nearby retention pond.

“A flower does not think of competing with the flower next to it. It just blooms.”  Quote by Zen Shin

Judy Goshorn