Remember when we explored the hedge in the winter? Well, you’d hardly recognize it now! All those bare branches and rose trailers are in full leaf, and the hedgewalls are drooping under their own weight of fresh leaves and blossoms. Now when I venture into the hedge, I have to squat or crawl through most sections, often in near-blackness.
While I have not yet identified some of the smaller trees in the hedge, the multiflora roses (rosa multiflora) which comprise a fair portion of the hedge gave a wonderful showing in recent weeks along with the Japanese honeysuckle and grapevines. The whole world was saturated with the sweetness of flowers, a welcome visit to follow all the cherries and other flowering trees of mid-spring.
The multiflora rose was introduced to this region in the 19th century, and recommended for hedges just like these. However, over time, this species’ rapid and easy proliferation has shown its more invasive qualities, and careful management of this plant is now encouraged. Nonetheless, it makes for a beautiful, animal-friendly environment.
The birds, deer, bunnies, foxes, and other creatures have always frequented the hedge – but with the onset of spring they are out in force! I've followed deer through the hedge as they disappear into the woods. When I wander the tunnels, I am immediately surrounded by the red-winged blackbirds, whose usual songs are replaced with a near-quacking sound.
Undoubtedly the nests are near by, and I am being quarantined by the neighborhood watch program. While six to ten birds encircle me from the hedge, one takes the role of giving away my position by hovering over my head mrack-mracking all the while. (I’ve watched them do the same to a fox, and I wonder if I should take this behavior as a compliment, an insult, or merely by-the-way.)
Our image above of one of these red-winged black birds does not do them justice, but it was hard to get a clear picture as they bantered about. Intelligent birds that they are, all nests were located safely away from the tunnels, so I couldn’t spot any chicks; given their behavior, I didn’t dare try to venture off the trail.
With the roses now spent, it’s a matter of waiting for rosehips to swell and grapevines to fruit. I do not believe these will produce edible grapes, but I did see another variety around my neighbor’s garden, which appear ripe and ready for picking. Looks like I need to bake some cookies and barter a trade!
Pictured here is some of the Japanese honeysuckle blooming all around the farm. This cluster was found in the hedge, which is filled with the thick perfume of flowers and the attentive calls of protective birds.
Today I spent some time exploring the trees and hedges around the farm, and have returned with a fresh batch of images to share with you for the week! Ahead are several new trees, as well as updates on old friends.
PS – LilyB asked for the identity of a particular flowering tree shown in the second image of the Flowering Trees and Shrubs post. She asked, “I like the one with the wispy white flowers. Do you know what it's called?”
Answer: The Fringetree
This blog has moved: more Arboreality Tree Blogging available now at www.brainripples.com/category/forest/. - - - - - -
Greetings and welcome to Arboreality, home of the tree blog. Arboreality is a blog about trees, forests, and wood, and everything in between. Join me, Jade Blackwater, to enjoy some of my day-to-day arboreal encounters.
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