Spring Collection

Hello friends,

It has not been a typical spring here on the island this year. We've had a little more rain than usual, sun showers, really, which of course, are just as great for all my potted pretties as they are for me, since I can skip a watering session or two. The above bouquet, consisting of pink daisies, white carnations, scented and pink geraniums and everlasting flowers (Helichrysum siculum) came from my garden. Isn't it sweet? 

source

I wonder, do you think Kathleen Kelly, 
whose taste I admire greatly, would agree?

Laurel in the background, and everlasting flowers in the foreground, border our garden.

Surely, she'd light up at the sight of these cheery, yellow lovelies, 

for they look like mini daisy trees, don't they? 

   Two weeks ago                                                                                       Now                        

Here's how some flowers are doing at this time, about
 two weeks after I planted them. I just happen to cut 
a bunch of daisies for various vases around the house. 

Two weeks ago                                                                                     Now                         

The yellow marigolds have really taken off! They are bright
pom poms of sunshine, even on the gloomiest days.

 

Some of you may recognize these bold, red beauties if you happen to live in a Mediterranean type climate or if you follow me on Instagram, where I posted this pic earlier in the week. Our tree is loaded with these twinkly bulbs at present. I find them to be some of the most exquisite blossoms that exist, and their fruit, which is ripe for harvest in the fall, is one of the world's super foods. Can you guess what they are?

Yes! Pomegranates!

Next to the pomegranate tree stands the loquat tree, which, as you can see, is full of ripe fruit, ready for picking. I had never seen this exotic fruit until I came to Crete. I still prefer peaches, apricots and plums to loquats, but the Cretans love them, and so does Liberty!

 

 The orange marigolds have also multiplied! They are the

 'sunset' to their yellow cousins' 'sunrise' slate of colours.

Although this is not my backyard, I wanted to show you the spectacular landscape where we collect our oregano every spring. It's on the outskirts of the mountainous village of Rogdia, which means 'pomegranate', as hundreds of trees bearing the fruit populate its space. The rocky terrain, above, is

also fortified with views to the sea and Panagia Bay. 
The city of Heraklion can be seen in the far distance.

Washed and ready to be separated and set down

 flat to dry completely, this popular Mediterranean 

herb will lend its unique aroma to many of our 

favourite dishes throughout the year. 

What's growing in your garden?

I hope you enjoyed my 'spring collection'. 

Thanks for visiting and have a wonderful weekend,

xo

Poppy

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