I've reached the point in this garden cleanup where things start to become obvious. I mean really, really bad things become obvious. Things like giant poison ivy vines, fire ant infestations, a gazillion "saved yet cracked and useless" 6 and 9 inch flats and trumpet vine invading the potting bench. There is also a weed I know as colts foot. It is four to six feet tall this time of year and looks like a smallish tree. It is easy to take care of, cut it off and compost it - TADA.
This year, my massive passion vine has grown over and around these large woody weeds. Not a problem, that passion vine needs a haircut anyway. But wait, it is full on Gulf Frittilary butterfly mating season. There is a lot of butterfly action going on out there and the caterpillars are all over that passion vine.
Today's work went slow. Clip a section of woody weed, detangle passion vine from weed, repeat. One cat actually made it to the compost pile, but i saw him and put him back on the vine.
I wish you could see how pretty the garden looks with all those butterflies floating around.
Letting the garden grow
13 hours ago
Isn't fall cleanup fun...and sometimes, it seems interminable. But just think how proud you'll be when it's done. Good news about the caterpillars!
ReplyDeleteWow you've been busy woman! :)
ReplyDeleteNo passion vine here, just lots of morning glories. I'm cleaning them out just a little at a time because they are so blue. They're messy, but I enjoy them!
ReplyDeleteWe are in the midst of fall cleanup too. Raking leaves, pulling out plants, growing cover crops. Work never stops!
ReplyDeleteIt is so absolutely dear of you to be mindful and careful and caring about the butterflies babies. Bless you! I share your trumpet vine challenges. What an adventurous determined plant! I so enjoy them when they are where they "should" be, however, so I tolerate the nuisance. And, yes, this is the Clean Up part of the season. Clearing the canvas for next year's creations!
ReplyDeleteEnjoy! xoxo