This has been a bad year for Monarchs. They have been officially declared as “endangered“. I have seen the numbers dwindle. So far, I have only had one successful butterfly eclose. I was feeling disheartened about the decline in population. However, today was a day full of joy and hope. I spotted a small caterpillarContinue reading “A New Hope”
Category Archives: Hellstrip Gardening
Spicebush Sorrow Tale
I check the Spicebush leaves for signs of Spicebush Swallowtail caterpillars. These caterpillars are builders! They fold over leaves and bind them with silk. This year, I spotted two Spicebush Swallowtail caterpillars. Last year, I brought caterpillars indoors and enjoyed watching their transformation. They start off as a brownish color. Then, they grow much largerContinue reading “Spicebush Sorrow Tale”
First Monarch Eclose
On July 30th, I found this nice large caterpillar on our milkweed. By August 3rd, the caterpillar formed her chrysalis. Amazingly, on August 10th, I was greeted by the flutter of wings! So quick! We took the butterfly outside, but she was not ready to fly. On the following day, she was eager to beContinue reading “First Monarch Eclose”
Primrose Moths
Primrose caterpillars are born from eggs laid on Primrose flowers. They feast upon their golden cradles and travel down the stalks to burrow below to the roots of the flower. Primrose Moths spend most of their lives dormant. They lay waiting throughout the autumn, winter, spring, and early summer. But for one brief time, theyContinue reading “Primrose Moths”
First Monarch Caterpillars of 2022
July 23rd – first Monarch caterpillar of the year! It is always exciting to find one of these elusive beauties, but the first one is something special . I handed this treasure over to my 9 year old next door neighbor. I provided her with a mesh enclosure and lots of direction. She participated inContinue reading “First Monarch Caterpillars of 2022”
Pretty in Pink
I spotted two Rosy Maple Moths taking shelter inside the petals of the tall primrose. I wonder if their choice of respite is a form of camouflage. The pink buds of the primrose resemble the blush colored hue of the moths. Curled up inside the flowers, I almost overlooked them – they were well hiddenContinue reading “Pretty in Pink”
Hot Sex on the Hellstrip
The Hellstrip sizzles with salaciousness. Flowers pose like naughty exhibitionists, encouraging onlookers to probe their pollen coated organs. As if inspired, insects and birds gyrate, thrust, and stagger in an orgy of lust.
No Spray!
Large-scale spraying of insecticides are in the works. Insecticide use affects all living creatures. Microbes, invertebrates, birds, and mammals are all intrinsically linked in the web of life. Although the government claims that spraying is targeted towards mosquitoes, their website admits that the chemicals are toxic to invertebrates and fish. From the Mass.gov website: But,Continue reading “No Spray!”
Mystery Plant Blooms
Gardening is a leap of faith. You can plan, but you must be flexible. Trust in Nature – and you will find joy “Plant a garden in which strange plants grow and mysteries bloom.” — Ken Kesey A couple of years ago, we noticed a strange squash-like plant growing near our garage. We were unableContinue reading “Mystery Plant Blooms”
Late June on the Hellstrip
The Hellstrip becomes a living rainbow – a riot of color and life. Flame red Indian Blankets (Gaillardia pulchella) burst through the fading milkweed blossoms. A mature Asclepias tuberosa is enchantingly bright and beautiful. Towards the east end of the strip, a large cluster of bright white daisies seem to look at us with cheerfulContinue reading “Late June on the Hellstrip”
Hellstrip Heaven 