Feb 23

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The Northwest Flower and Garden Show is over but ideas planted from its displays are just now germinating. OK, way cheesy, but I do have a few projects that will benefit the little guy and his mom, thanks to the show. The big daddy of plans is this little rooftop garden seen in “At the Water’s Edge.” I believe it is displayed as a doghouse but it would make a sweet little play area. And it would satisfy my desire to create such a garden. Maybe I can sweet talk the little guy’s daddy into building this along with a tiny little greenhouse for his lovely wife. Too much you think?

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On a much smaller scale was the mini compost bin. It was the subject of Melinda Myers’ seminar “Grow Your Own Worms” held Saturday in Sproutopia, an area for children to romp and play. This is a way simple project to start. We grabbed a plastic bag, tossed in some slightly moist shredded paper, then soil and finally worms. We’re on day 3 in the bag and the slithery friends have already been gobbling up the lettuce and fruit pulp we’ve given them. A worm bin can be as extravagant as you like, but I think we’ll likely start with a Rubbermade box or two. Be sure to check back for that project and more!

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All in all, the family enjoyed the garden show. It was a chance for me to feast on some lovely gardens and introduce the little guy to another world of gardening. Not a bad way to spend a Saturday morning.

Feb 19

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I loaded up the little guy and took him to the 21st annual Northwest Flower & Garden Show. Unfortunately this was a once-in-a-lifetime chance for him since the show’s owner, Duane Kelly, has decided this will be its last year. The little guy was content to hang out in the toddler pack on my back while I rushed around scanning the displays. He did enjoy one garden path lined with hyacinths, tulips and lilies, however. It was a chance for him to interact a bit more than just looking. After all, he’s used to digging in dirt when in the garden.

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I knew I was on borrowed time and that the clock was ticking toward nap-thirty. Ultimately, he gave me about an hour. It was fun to take him, but he’ll be with dad this weekend when I can really gorge myself on the gardens. That’s also when there will be gardening workshops for children.