En Plain Air

Gaye Sekula brought a few of her artist friends to meet the gardens of the Antique Rose Emporium today.

En plein air is a French expression which means "in the open air", or painting outdoors.

It was fun to see a new group of people out enjoying the grounds.

Tucked in every nook was an artist.

It was fun for the customers, who though we were giving classes.

At the end of their session, all participants gathered around this artist and

we marveled how his greenhouse looked better than our own.


The better photo of LaVerne as promised. I will say LaVerne has become quite famous since my last posting of her photos. Some of the customers have told her they recognized her from this blog. Please forgive her sunglasses. I would say she has gone "Hollywood" on me but alas we are all suffering with our oak pollen allergies.

LaVerne is ready with her apron at all times. If you need a marker, pruner, notepad, etc. it will appear from the apron with the comment "Everything for the home and garden." LaVerne, she is a treasure.

LaVerne is in the Garden

For Terry in Seattle. Your mom showing off her poppies. If you look to the left there is a yellow blur which is her favorite yellow iris. (Sorry the color is not good with my camera today. Having a bit of Seattle weather here today with grey overcast skies.)

Buff Beauty is blooming on the back of the Sales Office. It did not seem to look this beautiful yesterday. Isn't Spring grand?

LaVerne's in the Garden

The Tea rose, ‘Mme. Antoine Rebe’ is considered single petaled. For you folk that think you need to have lots of petals... take a look at this girl. Quite spectacular I must say.

Blue is Mealy Blue Salvia (S. farinacea). A dependable bloomer is our gardens.

Mexican Mint Marigold (Tagetes lucida) is the yellow. Native to Central America is root hardy to us in South Central Texas. Drought tolerant and will thrive in poor soils. The black jelly bean (anise) scent of this fall blooming marigold reminds us of its herbal qualities.

Since French Tarragon is almost impossible to grow in our gardens (too hot, too humid, and sometimes too wet) we use Mexican Mint Marigold but in a lesser amount as the flavor is very pronounced. The leaves can be used in a tea, bouquet garni, butters or cheese spreads.

No room for a rose garden and an herb garden? Put them all in one spot. Enjoy!

Easter Egg Hunt

Ages 2 - 8. Starts at 11 am on the Saturday before Easter.

They line up early...
Little ones on this side. No help from the parents, please.

Kodak moments.

LaVerne's son-in-law, Tim, guarding the eggs...

LaVerne's daughter Maureen with Tim and daughter McKenna with her "loot".

And then by 11:15 a.m. it is all over. These kids are quick. Do not be late next year.