Celosia Plumosa (old age)

This plant has reached its age. Normally it would reseed on its own, but only if planted on the ground. I have gathered the seeds instead.

I'm happy that I managed to keep something until the very end. The plant however is still thriving even after all the seeds gathered. Hopefully more seeds to gather soon before I discard the pot.

The Guarding Cat

This cat is our community cat. She always sleeps here in my balcony garden. She loves the plants. Whenever she's around, we don't have anymore stray cats coming over here to pee on the balcony because she would chase them away.

I hope she's not pregnant again.

Seeds from Italy

I got back from Italy roughly 2 weeks ago. And here are some seeds and bulbs I bought from there.

Iris Hollandica and Iris Germanica

Cornflower

Lunaria or Honesty

Tulips (mixed colors)

Cosmos

Geranium

Lavatera

Tomatoes

Dahlia

Moss Rose

Going to Italy

This is my last day. I will be going to Italy tomorrow morning, for two weeks. I hope my garden is okay being taken care of my neighbor. I'm worried but I really don't have any other choice.

Growing Turmeric

Turmeric is a very common spice for Asians. In my country, the locals use turmeric in almost all kinds of dishes, just like adding pepper. It doesn't just give the taste, it also gives some coloring.

However, turmeric is not necessarily used in powder form. In culinary, its leaves provide a very good aroma especially when cooked with fish or shellfish. So, what do we do if we happen to have only turmerics available, not the plant?

Here is one way to grow a turmeric plant for the leaves, but be aware that this is a long process and requires a lot of patience.

Introduction

This is my garden. 

In the picture, that is how I usually arrange my flower pots in the morning. This balcony gets sunlight for about 4 hours and shades for 7 hours or so.