Topic: Herbs and bees and butterflies

[libby]

I live in an area where it's impossible to escape politics and lots of people and cars, so I 'get away' by various means, one of which is growing herbs in a little rock garden that is about 3 x 6 feet on a slope outside my front door. Last year I planted marjoram, basil, rosemary, a couple of sedums, and left some mint that just showed up. They all lasted through the winter and are thriving, especially the rosemary, and - to my suprise and delight - the marjoram, which has been covered, since spring, with little dusty rose wispy-looking flowers which attract little white butterflies and bees. I'm pleased to see the bees - but not just any bees - just a few small bumblebees and honeybees. They don't bother me as I water the herbs or just sit on my steps watching them. (I use a watering can instead of heavier watering so as not to disturb them.)

Why am I glad the bees are there? Because first the honeybees and now the bumblebees (pollinators) are disappearing and scientists aren't sure why.


Linkback: http://4seasonschat.com/index.php/topic,12102.msg132811.html#msg132811

[Duke Jupiter]

I live in an area where it's impossible to escape politics and lots of people and cars, so I 'get away' by various means, one of which is growing herbs in a little rock garden that is about 3 x 6 feet on a slope outside my front door. Last year I planted marjoram, basil, rosemary, a couple of sedums, and left some mint that just showed up. They all lasted through the winter and are thriving, especially the rosemary, and - to my suprise and delight - the marjoram, which has been covered, since spring, with little dusty rose wispy-looking flowers which attract little white butterflies and bees. I'm pleased to see the bees - but not just any bees - just a few small bumblebees and honeybees. They don't bother me as I water the herbs or just sit on my steps watching them. (I use a watering can instead of heavier watering so as not to disturb them.)

Why am I glad the bees are there? Because first the honeybees and now the bumblebees (pollinators) are disappearing and scientists aren't sure why.

I have a few butterflies on my wave petunias and I am glad to see them. I feed the birds and I'm glad to see them as well. I don't see butterflies, lightnin' bugs, bees and other insects like I use to. Had a run in with a dadburn "yeller jacket " the other day and he came out on top. (Me foot was the loser)

Best regards,
Duke (likes the bugs now and then) Jupiter

Linkback: http://4seasonschat.com/index.php/topic,12102.msg132814.html#msg132814

[libby]

   Hello Duke. I've been wondering where you were (kinda quiet around here lately). libby

Linkback: http://4seasonschat.com/index.php/topic,12102.msg132818.html#msg132818

[Right Conspiracy]

I grow herbs and use them fresh in cooking during the summer.  I have several types of mint in the garden and if you leave it unchecked it will spread like wild fire.  If you like mint put a sprig or two in a jar of sun tea for a different variation.

Linkback: http://4seasonschat.com/index.php/topic,12102.msg132821.html#msg132821

[libby]

I agree about the mint. It is invasive, and I've been pulling a lot of it up - only leaving a little here and there.  I was throwing it in the trash until I remembered that I like hot mint tea sweetened with a little honey in the winter, so am experimenting with drying it.






Linkback: http://4seasonschat.com/index.php/topic,12102.msg132827.html#msg132827

[notatroll]

This is funny.  My Husband was talking about this the other day.  But I tell you bees have been bad this year.  I got stung on the eyelid by one yesterday weed eating.  So they aren't my favorite things right now.   I would like to hear more about the Herbal recipes. 

Linkback: http://4seasonschat.com/index.php/topic,12102.msg134636.html#msg134636

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