From where I sit...

Here is the view from where hubby and I built a small patio from recycled concrete chunks. I love to sit here early morning, after a run or to catch a bit of the sunset. I am one darn lucky woman.

The 4x4 pole is the foundation of our future gazebo-like structure. I say gazebo-like because I am not too fond of the standard gazebos I see around...grapevines, kiwi vines, chayote, scarlet runner bean & white black eyed suzan vine should cover the structure in less than a year from now (It is an over sized structure). But for now, my view is of nicotianas, carnations, dahlias, lemon balm and other flowers for the hummingbirds...oh yeah, that tall, almost tree-like thingy on the right is an, appropriately named, columnar basil.

After years of success and failures growing basil, I found that the Thai variety (the one with the gorgeous purple flowers) and this one are the best to grow in Central Florida year-round. Easy to maintain, have zero issues with our poor soil, and the taste is fabulous! The only difference between the two is that, for what I've read, columnar basil can only be propagated via cuttings as it rarely blooms. I've had this one in a pot for over a year now and planted it in the ground about two months ago and is happy as can be. No pests or issues of any kind. Go get ya one! (I found mine at Whole Foods Market)...if you would like cuttings provided you are in the US (I just learned it is not legal to mail plant material to other countries without proper permit) I can mail you some when it gets cooler.