Spring is off to a bounding and early start here.
![](http://www.annakakalton.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_6949-1024x768.jpg)
Based on my photo rolls, everything is running 1-3 weeks earlier than usual.
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Our early big red started opening a week ago, and is now in full bloom.
![](http://www.annakakalton.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_7004-768x1024.jpg)
Last year, it was at a comparable bloom point 4/22.
I admit I’m enjoying the warmer weather, even as I worry about this summer.
Rob helped me set up a new nursery area in some excess driveway space. I’ve been busily up-potting a lot of the native trees and shrubs that we’re growing on.
![](http://www.annakakalton.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_6909-1024x768.jpg)
A lot of them will go in the ground this fall.
I have a lot of native seeds in the “wait and see” stage. They require both stratification and patience!
Fortunately, I also have garden friendlies like signet marigolds to give me instant gratification in the meantime 🙂
![](http://www.annakakalton.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_7002-1024x768.jpg)
I grew them for the first time last year, and thought them utterly adorable, so I’m doubling down this year!
![](http://www.annakakalton.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_5502-2-768x1024.jpg)
I’m growing seeds from this beauty, some compact orange signet marigolds, and some burgundy signet marigolds. I have no idea how true they’ll come from seed, but only one way to find out!