Labor Day weekend mentally marks the end of summer.
Some even consider it the beginning of fall.
And since the heat dome has finally moved away from here
The temperatures are peaking most days in the 80’s.
What a relief.
It’s been a long hot summer
For just about everyone.
I would like to submit another option for this season.
Bug season!
Despite all the heat
It’s another buggy year.
Orb weaver spiders have been popping up for weeks.
John even found some at the farm
Who have all ready filled their eggs sacks.
Almost evey day I see a praying mantis.
This morning I rescued one from the inside of the kitchen window
And found another on the door as I took the first one outside.
Their are bees and wasps and moths and Monarch butterflies
Along with the occational hummingbird.
I love the buzzy feel of the garden
At this time of the year.
So how did I get so lucky.
Well, I do live on the Monarch migration path
But there is also intentionality about it.
First you have to give up spraying chemicals.
It’s important to put up with bugs and let them
Find their own balance.
If we stay out of their way
They will do just that.
Then we need to make sure they have food.
That means growing pollinator friendly plants
And extending their bloom well into the season.
Zinnias and Cosmos planted in July,
Deadheading Verbena Bonariensis and tall garden Phlox
Letting the Cockscomb bloom….and bloom.
Water is also important.
If you don’t have a bird bath
Saucers with rocks or pebbles to rest on
Will be greatly appreciated
By everyone.
We are, after all
Part of this one glorious community.
Happy bug season.
Gail
I aologize for my unplanned lengthy sabbatical. I spent over a year writing stories of my life for my family. They gave me a subscription to Storyworth. It was great fun to answer their questions and record my story. If you like to write or spin a tale check it out.
In My Garden 