Category Archives: Uncategorized

In case you missed it, this is an El Nino year. NOAA tells us that this quirky climate phenomenon is now strengthening and could become what it calls a “moderate” event. El Nino is caused by a combination of changes … Continue reading →

Looking for a nice gift that is inexpensive and easy to make?  Flavored vinegar can be very costly if purchased in a store, but it’s relatively easy and fun to make. Who better than our regular contributor, Herbdoc, to show … Continue reading →

With most outdoor garden chores winding down, I turn my attention indoors – to  my houseplants. But indoor gardening can be way more than  plants growing in pots.  With a little imagination, you can turn a few plants, some pebbles … Continue reading →

During our recent move, our dog stayed with my in-laws for a few days. She’s stayed there often. It’s a typical ranch house with flower and vegetable gardens in the back – no water feature of any kind. The night … Continue reading →

Herbdoc has yet another timely and helpful post: New England folklore tells us that the wooly bear caterpillar (the larva of the Isabella tiger moth or Pyrrharctia Isabella) can predict how harsh a winter is in store.  If the brown … Continue reading →

I wish I had colchicums in my garden now. I used to grow them, and they never failed to wow me in the fall, when they would send up big, showy flowers from the grass or bed. No foliage – … Continue reading →

A few weeks ago, I reported on the poinsettias that the University of Rhode Island Master Gardeners are growing for sale in early December. Despite assaults from the above-mentioned (and common) greenhouse pests, the poinsettias are thriving. Many of the … Continue reading →

Herbdoc discusses some tried and true herbal cold and flu treatments: If you were to ask an old-timer what could be done for colds and flu, you probably get a quizzical look and a “Nothing you can do” answer.  My … Continue reading →