Siberian irises: Of diploids and tetraploids
By Jo Josephson

Irises. The Opinionated Gardener grows three kinds: the “common” bearded irises that most refer to as German irises and the “less common” beardless Siberian and Japanese irises. She prefers the Siberian, finding the German and Japanese irises too much flower for her taste, whereas the overall appearance of the Siberian is delicate, like that of a butterfly. And the late spring garden doesn’t get much better than when the clear deep blues, purples and whites of the Siberian iris flit about on stage with the outrageous oranges of O’Keeffe’s Oriental poppy. (June 14, 2008 11:09 AM)

The Return of the Jersey Tomato: Seed Production in the Global Economy
You've probably not thought about it but those hybrid tomato seeds that you are getting ready to plant in pots of Pro Mix, more likely than not, were grown in another country, where the climate was conducive to growing disease-free seeds.

Succulents as Objects of Art
Neglect. The ability to withstand extreme neglect. It’s the defining characteristic shared by those houseplants known as “succulents.”

The Solstice, Seed Catalogues and the Smithsonian
The solstice and the seed catalogues arrived today at two above, pulling us back from the edge, once again.

Apples: Wild and Civilized
Henry David Thoreau didn’t have much use for what he called the “more civilized (cultivated) apple.” Writing in his journal in the mid 19th century, he described its taste as “tame and unforgettable.

Logging Festival’s Coming Soon: Be a Wood Chip! Float down Main Street!
By Peggy Yocom

The Rangeley Lakes Region Logging Museum invites everyone to sign up for the Little Miss and Mister Wood Chip contest and to enter a float in this July’s Logging Festival parade, part of the Logging Museum’s Logging Festival Days, July 25th and 26th. (June 23, 2008 11:13 AM)

Logging Museum Auction Promises Fun and Treasures
On Saturday, July 5th, at 10 a.m., the Rangeley Lakes Region Logging Museum will hold its annual fundraising auction at the Museum Building on Route 16, one mile east of Rangeley. Auctioneer Stephen Richard will be at the gavel once again, managing the event with care and good humor. Everyone is welcome to view the items beginning at 9 a.m. (June 23, 2008 11:14 AM)

Aquatic bug field trip planned
Western Maine Audubon is planning an aquatic bug field trip for Saturday, June 21.

There is a whole world lurking under those stream rocks, and not all of it is black fly larvae. Those of us who fish are often intent on knowing what the fish are eating, but even non anglers will be fascinated to explore the world of aquatic insects on the Carabasset River.

Our field trip will be led by entomologist Marcia Siebenmann. Marcia specializes in aquatic invertebrates. Marcia will begin by explaining some of the basics of the aquatic environment and what we can expect to see. Then we will use small nets to sample the stream to identify and learn about what we find.

People should wear wettable clothes and sneakers/shoes or bring hip boots or waders for stomping around in the water. Appropriate weather gear is in order, also (wind breaker, hat, etc). Bug repellent/spray, sun block, and drinking water are also a good idea. This is a rain or shine trip. The field trip runs from 8-12 and we will meet at the Farmington Park and Ride at 7 AM. Those who want to drive directly or those who want further information should contact Steve Bien 8975215.This will be free and open to the public. (June 16, 2008 9:37 AM)

GPS Training Set for June 17 & 19
Due to popular demand, Franklin County Soil & Water Conservation District is hosting two more Introductory GPS Training Workshop. These classes will teach people how to use a Global Positioning System, extend their GPS skills and avoid expensive mistakes. (June 10, 2008 11:02 AM)

Professional Maine Guides Association Meeting Scheduled
The Maine Professional Guides Association (MPGA) will hold its annual meeting and banquet this weekend. (April 9, 2008 10:35 AM)

December Outdoors
By Matt Irish


As a child, November held the honor of being the transition month. Now, December plays that pivotal role bringing exciting changes to the Maine woods.

It is the month when the ground freezes for the winter and the first blanket of snow holds. Most birds have made their winter journey, but the hearty chickadee and screeching blue jay hold their ground. Fattened on apples and nuts, bears slump off into their winter dwellings. The cold sets in and the small ponds button-up. A morning frost is as certain as the sun. December serves as an early warning of inclement weather yet to arrive.

Mainer’s typically deal with the harsh winters in one of two ways. Either they hole-up in their homes bundled in sweaters and blankets with a blaring woodstove, or they take winter head on and embrace what it has to offer.
(January 15, 2008 12:47 PM)