June Ramblings...

Well, it has been quite some time since I have visited blogger land.  I think the invention of Pinterest has definitely swept me off my feet!  I have also been busy with another attempt at gardening.  This year seems to be going better with the exception of a few pests.  My yellow squash has been attacked by vine borers and I am hoping I can save them.  These are very nasty pests and I will spare you the gory details.  Aphids have also taken up residence; but luckily, these are much more manageable.  I am staying organic and it is no easy task in south Texas.  I resorted to blasting the aphids with a water hose, but they always found their way back to my tomato plants within a few hours.  So, I was fortunate this weekend to find a nursery called The Arbor Gate nearby that sold live ladybugs.  Two thousand ladybugs for $10.50?  Sure, why not!  Ladybugs are awesome and stealthy little garden ninjas! 

Aside from the ladybugs, The Arbor Gate was a real treat!  If you are in the Houston area and haven't gone, please do.  The staff is very knowledgeable and the nursery itself is very unique.  The herb selection was unreal.  I was able to find herbs such as Stevia, Feverfew, etc. that mainstream stores never carry.

I ended up buying a pot of french lavender and a pack of Thai basil.  The smell of basil is heavenly but the Thai version takes it up a notch!  As we wandered through the gardens I was fascinated by all the wonderful artistry on display. 

 Who doesn't love fairy gardens?

 These eclectic bird houses were beautiful.

 The easiest flowers to grow!  We were even greeted by ducks.

 I love his wisdom.

 Tea anyone?

 The shops on the grounds were loaded with fairy garden supplies.

 This may be a new hobby.

The white cottage garden decor makes me swoon!  I cannot wait to go back, especially in the fall. 

Off to check on the ladies!