I've been outside a lot lately. And I've learned many things -- firstly, that I'm better at applying sunscreen than bug spray. Secondly, that the jury's still out regarding my ability to keep outdoorsy-plants amongst the living.
Allow me to explain: I have a unique ability to kill houseplants. It's extreme -- so much so, that I've used it as an excuse when people ask me why I don't have children. It's a talent that I believe I inherited from my mom (and in direct contrast to both of our talents when it comes to furry, four-legged types, I hasten to add.) I know that as I child I saw her dehydrate a cactus, and she may have supervised the expiration of a silk plant or two. And I am definitely her daughter when it comes to matters botanical. If ficuses had post offices, my picture would be on posters there.
But: I've heard that these things are easier out-of-doors. Or "easier", at any rate. As one might expect, I'm a bit hesitant to dive right into an expensive landscaping scheme before I properly evaluate my own planticidal tendencies ... which has led me to the greatest source of free-except-for-the-hassle-factor greenery on the planet: Craigslist.
The upside: we won't be out more than gas money if stuff dies. (Okay, fine: "if".) The downside: my strategy is at the mercy of what's being offered, an how well eHow.com advises me on not killing it. So we're sort of building ourselves the Garden of Misfit Toys. But I believe in my little freak plants. Even the ones that insist on looking a bit like they need some caffeine & a plant brassiere (you know -- for the drooping).
Pictures tomorrow -- it was too dark tonight, by the time I'd finished today's transplant. Dr. Frankenstein has nothing on my yard.
my team
people I read
who the heck am I?
- the un-bride
- Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Recently married, Currently rehabbing my 1st house with The Mr... I have more opinions than a person should, and no idea why anyone but the 2 of us have an opinion about our marriage. But hey: it's entertaining!
2 comments:
use a mix of beer and molassas to keep aphids away, just mix it up and put it into the weed and feed sprayer. works great.
also, plants love tea. the caffiene kind. just not a lot.
and coffee grounds are great in soil.
when all else fails, buy shasta daisy's and ice plant. NO one can kill either of those two things, and they spread making nice ground cover.
good luck!
But if I use beer & molasses, either the Mr., or I, or both of us will be out there licking the plants. Maybe that's good for their root systems?! ...
ps: Yay, excuse to drink more coffee!
Post a Comment