Ah, August! The dog days of summer typically bring exhausting heat, long spells of no rain and very high electric bills. But this year we have, so far, escaped the extremes we felt last year; at least that’s the way it seems to me. We’ve had rainfall and somewhat more moderate temperatures, and the place to verify these observations is the butterfly garden at the Riverwalk.
The Lowndes County Master Gardeners have worked very hard to provide a beautiful city patch providing nectar, food and shelter to the butterfly populations. But they have done much more: They have provided a place for education, fun, rest and reflection. Visiting the garden will surely delight, if not provide any monetary riches. It’s a wonderful place to take your children, grandchildren or just yourself. The flowers appear to have wings because of the plethora of butterflies. You might also spot a hummingbird or two, a caterpillar or three, or a predator wasp hauling her prey into her nest in the ground. I was privy to all these experiences at the garden just last week.
Now for some tips for August.
‘Til next time, I’ll be playing in the dirt. Hope to see you there.
Sharon Carrigan of Columbus shares these gardening tips on behalf of the Lowndes County Master Gardeners.
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