Weed Or What

I don't know what this is, but its got a week before I whack it out.

Those bottom leaves are nearly two feet in length and it stayed neat and tidy for two years - close to the ground.  This year it is growing up and out. It's about 3 feet by 3 feet in a small bed across my back patio.  It keeps putting out these buds and I wait each day for blooms, but I think it's just unfurling more leaves.  

Whatever, it is getting a severe pruning next week if nothing of the floral variety appears.

Easter Surprises

Back in the city and having a terrible time identifying plants and perennials from weeds.  The weenies started barking and I saw a little female mallard fly out of an azalea bush and the bad little weenies had their noses in the bush and tails wagging.  Uh oh.  She did not - she did.  After being gone a week, a little wild duck came up to the top tier of the yard and started laying.  I can only hope that they hatch while we are at the farm.  The grandkids are going to be very excited over this find this weekend.

The former owner has many different clematis vines around the house.  I can identify those, but I've never seen this one.  They open a lime green then turn white.  About the size of a tangerine, they are smaller than ones I've grown and the petals have rounded edges.  I just hope I don't pull up perennials  and annuals as the house was a jewel box of plants and flowers when I bought it.  

Have a wonderful time with your loved ones this weekend.

Dandelion Greens

While most gardeners are already wringing their hands about how to banish those loathsome weeds from their lawns and gardens, I ordered some dandelion seed from Pinetree Gardens and Seeds.  You see, dandelion greens and roots make the most delicious salads, tinctures, tea and jellies, liqueurs and cordials too.  Not only tasty, but very healthy for you.  Smoke that in your pipe; oh no, I don't know if that is legal or not.  By the way, I am already gnashing my teeth about crabgrass.