Planting

 

 

Saturday I planted some wildflower seeds. I know, this sounds somewhat contradictory. If they are wild, why would they require planting, right? But we are here...a species which packages and sells wildflower seeds in plastic bags.

 

I chose a butterfly mix. The flowers are supposed to be irresistible to butterflies. My urban neighborhood may prove resistible to most species of butterflies, but I am hoping some stragglers will pass through and be delighted by my labors.

 

I have found nothing quite as gratifying as turning over urban soil which has been neglected for years. Pieces of brick, a fragment of an old bathroom tile floor, assorted field stone. There was a large spring from some long-dead mechanical device. The mixture of clay, soil and sand was suitably rich when mashed around with my spade. The mulch from last summer mixed in to lighten, acidify and aerate.

 

A hand fork was the best way to make my furrows and cover them as I spread the fine seed mix. The whole piece of land is about the size of a small bedroom. It has a full southern exposure. It is also right off the sidewalk and unfenced. So, I'm trying this experimental treatment as a hedge against defecating dogs. A thick patch of weedy growth may discourage all but the most desperate hounds. If it fails, I will try something else.

 

The whole thing is covered now in black garden cloth. They may be wildflower seeds, but I thought they deserved the sophisticated handling of an urban site. I hope they appreciate this and respond accordingly. So far, the skunks are not impressed. They have tried to edge around the seams to do their ritual foraging. One adventurous skunk tried a taste of the plastic cloth. That was not repeated. I have to admit being amused at the thought of the skunk's face at it chewed on the plastic.

 

Whatever develops from my efforts will be an extra delight. I have already enjoyed getting my hands dirty and setting the whole thing up. As with all things in the process of a daily practice, the point is enjoying the activity. It now feels like Spring. Summer will bring what it will bring.