glad to hear it is doing better,, makes ya feel kinda good dont it-- :) (it does me, even if it took being hit over the head-- lol)

Ed, Yes, peat moss is dry. I just use it as it comes from the bag, no moistening. Enough peat moss so there's at least an inch all around and between rhizomes. Lightly hand twist the plastic bag (I use grocery bags) but don't seal so there's a little bit of air exchange. Let your observations guide you: check on them every month or so, they should be firm. Expect a small bit of moisture loss, but shouldn't look shrivelled. If they do, sprinkle the peat lightly with water. My basement has a dirt floor, so may be damper than some. If you notice mold, open the bags more. Rot? trim it out, dust with sulfur if you have it, let the cut dry a couple days before returning to the peat bag.

3 feet tall, I will not be supprised to see you have figs this year. It might be only a handfull this year. Good luck and congradulations on your new addiction.

Maybe since I've gotten back on track, I should do a "Secret Santa" RR. I mean unless Tabatha would like to do one! Let me know what you think Tabatha, and we'll go from there. We could include gifts such as Christmas ornaments New Rolls of Christmas ribbon for crafts Baked goods Amaryllis bulbs Paperwhite bulbs Hyacinth bulbs for indoor forcing general gifts such as hand lotions gardening magazines dish towels/pot holders candles potpouri fresh seeds for winter sowing journals etc. I think this would be really fun! Tina