A Fresh Start

Spring is here! Tiny buds dot trees and shrubs, the first-to-emerge bulbs are showing pops of color, and birds chirp in the wee hours of the morning. For most, the arrival of this long-awaited season brings a renewed energy and fresh perspective. That’s especially true for me right now as I look out into my new (and much bigger) backyard. Having purchased a home last fall, I have no idea what perennials will pop up in the landscape, but I do know the yard has room for more—many more! I added several of the blooming beauties in “New Plants for 2022” on page 12 to my wish list, with Uptick Red coreopsis at the very top.

My covered front porch has several columns already outfitted with hooks just waiting to be filled with hanging baskets. While my husband tackles the big landscape projects, I’ll handle the curb appeal. I plan to follow the advice for creating perfect combinations in “Hanging Pretty” on page 18.

With this new yard comes new birds! A major highlight was spotting three woodpeckers at one time—downy, hairy and red-bellied. Two of my favorite spring fliers that I hope will stop by this spring are featured in this issue. Read about the rose-breasted grosbeak in “Greet Grosbeaks” on page 8 and the indigo bunting in “A Thrill of Color” on page 30. I’ll have my feeders freshly filled—i hope they find me.