Seed Libraries
Did you know that there are libraries where you can check out seeds, along with the latest New York Times bestseller? I didn't either, until recently. Some libraries actually have programs where they are basically giving out free seeds. The rules vary, but basically, the idea is that you grow the plants from the free seeds and harvest the seeds from the plants you grow to give back to the library. Cool idea, huh? You can read more about it here.
Antique Color Introductions
Do you like to go antique shopping? I do, and I was happy to find this article from Greenhouse Product News written just last month. Apparently there is a trend for vintage colors in the new plant trials. Check out this one: Petunia 'Crazytunia Stonewashed' (Westhoff). So delicate and pretty. For more on this story check out the article here.
New Garden Tool Obsession
Ok, I don’t think this is really that new, but it is new to me. The Hori Hori knife is an all purpose garden tool that I just have to have. It’s concave, so it can scoop up soil. It has a serrated edge that can cut through weeds and roots, and it fits comfortably in your hand to work in and around your garden. Some of them even have markings for planting depth which is especially useful for planting bulbs. This one is definitely going on my gardening gift wish list. Here’s an example of one on Amazon:
Japanese Hori Hori Garden Landscaping Digging Tool With Stainless Steel Blade & Sheath
Lighting for the Garden
Lastly, I thought I’d mention the “Sun Jar.” This is a cool little light that uses solar power during the day to give a glow-light at night. They come in a wide variety of designs, but I like the mason jar country look best, which sets a nice mood in the evening. You can see one for sale here at amazon: Solar Sun Jar - Glows Yellowor if you are adventurous search Pinterest and find out how to make one.
Do you have any new obsessions or inspirations for me and our readers? Share them here.
Seana Turner
I've never heard of the Hori Hori knife, but I've gotta admit that it looks pretty great. I just bought a garden turtle for my parents to put out on their patio and it has the solar capacity and lights the shell up at night. Kind of corny, but we think it is terrific:)
Patti
Oooo I love the turtle idea. Not corny at all. Thanks for stopping by!
Manuela@A Cultivated Nest
I wish my library was like that. They do run an annual plant swap.
Patti
That's cool. Plant swaps are great for finding stuff that grows well in you area. Maybe you could start or suggest the idea to your librarian.