We really haven't had much of a winter here, Jeff. In fact, I noticed today that my hibiscus is coming up, and it usually does start into growth until the end of May. Things have been either way early, or they haven't done anything at all because we completely "skipped" over spring (like my double daffs didn't bloom). My Colocasia 'Ruffles' is up already. Usually my colocasias don't start into growth until mid-late May, or even early June! It has been a way-wacky year here. It would have been a great year if I had planted amorphs in the ground, since we had a drought, and they like dry feet during dormancy. So, I guess you're getting the spring that missed us, huh? Susan

Hi All- I bought my DoA from Bluestone's sale last summer. I planted in a 1 gallon container so she was keep moist at all times. My DH did all the pinching; something I haven't got the hang of yet. Don't really understand where you should pinch. She was planted last fall 2007. When we removed her from the container she had an amazing rootball. We planted her deep w/some bonemeal in the bottom of the hole. The pictures are of her very first blooms ever! I am so proud of her and I think she is a very pretty clematis. Now I need to find a vitacella to grow together w/my Henryi that is about 8 years old. He had wilt the first 3 years and this year he has just started blooming. I was thinking of VV but would love a nice blue like Ramona. How would Betty Corning look w/Henryi? I hear she is a great clematis and I love the bell-shaped flowers. I want something with color to really stand out w/Henryi. I guess I am not really sure what I want but would love some suggestions. suebot in CT

Did someone say something to make her feel not welcome? Personally, I enjoy ALL of the photos posted here. I don't think it is a contest to see who takes the best photos, but instead to share what we take photos of, and new ideas on what and how to take pictures. I always get ideas on taking pictures from other posters here, and I enjoy seeing what I see in these photos since much of it is so far away from here and I like to see other parts of the country/world. The photo above is excellent, especially the depth of field, which brings the focus on the couple IN the photo and softens the background. The lighting is also very impressive, something that doesn't come easily to me. Once, again, I don't judge pictures here as if they were in some kind of competition. I view them to enjoy what others have and see in their lives. Gmom74, you also have a nice picture there. Nice rose! Is that a hydrangea to the left of the rose?? Kt

I have to agree with the OP on much of what is said on this thread after a quick glance through posts. WHO in the H E double hockey sticks do we Americans think we are!??? CNN has some talking idiot saying King Charles needs to end Imperialism, some idiot on The View is questioning the origin of the jewels in the Queens crown!!??? Honestly the arrogance and ignorance of many is on display!!!