Two weeks ago I collected seed from a musk mallow (Malva alcea) I noticed growing in a crack in the pavement, soaked them overnight, and scattered them in a pot. There are dozens sending out true leaves already and it’s very exciting - there are these tiny emerald sweat bees (Agapostemon) that really seem to adore the flowers of this plant and I would love to grow greater numbers to better support them.

The recent rains after several months with little precipitation has driven a new flush of growth and some wonderful blooms in the gardens as well, and I really appreciate the look of the Queen Anne’s Lace, Monarda, Echinacea, and Clethea together

What’s growing on with you all?

    • I’m doing Kabocha and Blue Hubbard~ The hubbard squash was supposed to be a trap crop in the less controlled wildlife garden, but gourd fortune smiled on me and no pests showed up; the vine has gone nuts with 6 viable (large!) fruits on it. It’s my second year trying to grow squash, so 2 outta 3 ain’t bad!