Now We're Getting Somewhere!

I called in an order for flowering dogwood and Canadian hemlock...both of which I already have planted on our two acres. In addition to those, I ordered two natives that I've never grown before...and, to my knowledge, have never seen in nature (although, it is possible I've seen them and did not know what they were): dwarf chinkapin oak (Quercus prinoides), and American sweet crabapple (Malus coronaria).

I've been looking for this particular oak--which is supposed to produce acorns even when they are young--as early as 3-5 years old...and they produce them consistently every year. They are supposed to be a wildlife favorite.

I've never been too interested in crabapple trees--I've always pictured the exotic species that are sometimes used in landscaping. After reading about this native species, I thought I'd like to grow them. Aside from the flowers and fruits, they should make good nesting sites for birds.

I found a fairly local source (a couple of hours away)...the prices are very reasonable for bare root seedlings. They are sold in units of 25 seedlings per unit...so, I will have quite a lot to plant come April!

Oh, and happy first day of spring. Today is the Vernal Equinox. It feels more like summer than spring though...with temperatures in the 70s this week.