~ A somewhat autobiographical look at how plants have impacted my life ~
We’re Having a Heatwave
The weather in San Diego experienced extreme heat and humidity from July through September, culminating in a record-breaking six-day heatwave in early October. Though a tropical storm brought much-needed rain, many plants suffered distress, showing signs like wilting and yellowing leaves. The heat caused chlorophyll breakdown, revealing other pigments and stressing roots, impacting nutrient transport. Various plants, including agaves and hibbertias, sustained damage, with some dying due to excessive sun exposure. Conversely, tropical plants in shaded areas thrived. As autumn approached, signs of seasonal change and the beneficial rain provided hope for recovery.
Eureka, I have found it!
Spaniards were the first to dub the lands on the western side of the North American continent California. Supposedly, the name came from the popular 1510 fictional story of Queen Calafia’s queendom said to be a remote land rich in gold
Makin’ Mosaics
I’m not sure when I first became fascinated by mosaic pavings. Perhaps it was while looking at photos of the ancient Roman villa floors of the ruins of Pompeii. Or when traveling to Europe and noticing the intricate pavings in
Costa Rica Riches – Talari Mountain Lodge
This is a continuation of our trip to Costa Rica in November 2019. See Previous 2 post for earlier places we visited on the tour. After a final look at the bird and bromeliads at the Las Cruces Botanical station
Costa Rica Riches – Las Cruces Botanical Station
After several days in around San José we boarded small planes and flew to the Pacific side of Costa Rica to Golfito, near the Panama border. Upon arrival we boarded small boats and visited a private garden on a island
Costa Rican Riches – Around San José
In November of 2019, Scott and I participated in the Pacific Horticulture Tour of Costa Rica. San José Our trip started in the capital city, San José. From there we did several day long trips. On a walking tour of
Papa, can you hear me?
My father, James Ketchel Bishop, was born 100 years ago on Oct 26, 1919 in Branson, Missouri to Grace Mae Lefler Bishop and Allen Kitchel Bishop. Though my blog is about how plants have affected my life, this post doesn’t
Machu Picchu
In October 2019, the author joined a unique plant expedition to Peru, focusing on native cacti and bromeliads, alongside a visit to Machu Picchu. Inspired by Inca history, they explored the ancient site amidst fog and rain, experiencing its stunning
Peruvian Puya Pursuit
In September, a plant expedition tour in Peru focused on cacti and bromeliads, offering a unique experience beyond typical gardens. The journey included crossing the Andes, visiting cultural sites, and witnessing the rare Puya raimondii in Huascarán National Park. The
Malvern Spring Festival & Chelsea Garden Showq
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the 2020 Chelsea Garden Show has been cancelled. How tired we all are of reading those words about our favorite garden tour, events and meetings. However, as I mentioned in my October 2019 column about
Powis Castle Garden
In May, I participated in the Pacific Horticulture tour of Wales, visiting various gardens and two notable garden shows: Malvern and Chelsea. Powis Castle was a highlight, featuring stunning terrace gardens with unique plants and historic architecture. The tour showcased
Off to Keukenhof
In May of 2019, Scott and I finally decided it was time to visit the tulip fields at Keukenhof in the Netherlands – described as the largest flower garden in the world. We’ve known about the tulip display for decades
Borrego Bonanza
The spring 2019, bloom in the Anza Borrego Desert was spectacular. Who knew after the super bloom in 2017 that just 2 years later there would be an even better bloom? The desert received frequent rains beginning October through February.