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November 23, 2016

Fabulous Fall


If you're looking for a cool, autumnal place to celebrate Thanksgiving, don't come to Florida.  Sunshine and eighty degree days are what we're looking forward to for the next few weeks, and I couldn't be happier.  Oh yes, it's quite dry - but the continued warmth is a beautiful thing!  Camellias are blooming, while summer flowers are still holding on, much like last year when winter was almost nonexistent.  This Sasanqua Camellia, Stephanie Golden', is in a mixed Camellia border that's just three years old.  They were purchased as tiny, single stemmed plants.



"Stephanie Golden'



A lighter shade of pink, 'Cotton Candy'.



'Snow-on-the-Mountain'.



Across the yard, another young Sasanqua, 'Alabama Beauty'.



This large, tree sized Sasanqua is nearing the end of its' bloom, but most have just begun to show off. Japonica Camellias will probably begin blooming next month.  So much to look forward to!



Out front, Thryallis shrubs look as cheerful as they have since spring.  They've been pruned hard twice this year as they have a tendency to get leggy, but always return with bountiful blooms.



Roses by the porch...



 My Blackberry Lily has gone to seed.  I was hoping to see some birds feasting on them, but they are too busy devouring the berries from the Firebush plants in the same area.



Flowering earlier this year...

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Around back, in the shade gardens, 'Tractor Seat' plant is brightening up an area...





It's been a tad warm for a fall vegetable garden, but the cooler nights seem to be bringing it on.  We've enjoyed radishes daily.



I always look forward to the tiny head forming in the center of the cabbage.  At that point, I feel like they're going to make it.  I've also got broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, carrots, and greens planted.  My chickens are thrilled each time I thin my veggie rows.


Until next time...

Happy Thanksgiving!







8 comments:

  1. What a beautiful homestead you have. Your cabbage looks perfect!
    Enjoy your holiday!

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  2. Hi Janice, The weather, has indeed, been perfect. Hopefully, we will have another mild winter. You can't beat the Sasanqua's for being reliable heavy bloomers, and you have some real beauties. Love your tractor seat. The blooms are an added bonus. Your veggies look great, especially the cabbage. Hope you had a nice Thanksgiving Day.

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    1. We're blessed with this ongoing beautiful weather - we won't be able to complain when it gets a little colder.

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  3. I'm always envious of your veggie garden (and now your chickens too). It looks so perfect ~ like it's free of all the bugs and diseases that always hit mine. Are you re-directing your pests to Lakeland?! :-)

    Your Camellias are stunning. I've thought about adding a few to my garden. Do they attract any pollinators?

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    1. I've never had much of a bug problem in my veggie garden (knock on wood), and now the chickens are getting any that are around. As far as the Camellias go, bees are all over them, but not so many butterflies.

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  4. Oh, gosh, Janice, this post was another feast for the eyes. Your radishes look delicious, and I've got to add an Alabama Beauty to my sasanqua collection. Thanks for brightening my day with your beautiful garden!

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  5. Thanks, Leslie. I'm finding you can never have too many camellias. So little care, for such big reward!

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