Stan & Joyce Orchard

Trying to figure it out since 1975.

Skunk Cabbage Arrive

Skunk Cabbage Arrive

Like the swallows to Capistrano, the skunk cabbage have poked their heads up to herald the arrival of spring in Hobart.

‘Lefty’ And Friends Are Back

‘Lefty’ And Friends Are Back

On January 15 some bulls wandered through with one unusual specimen. This evening he was back with seven of his friends. His left antler hasn’t dropped yet, it’s just very small.

Let The Shedding Begin

Let The Shedding Begin

This may be the smallest antler we’ve ever found out here in our 36+ years on The Orchard Compound. But it’s a sure sign the deer and elk are shedding their winter attire and spring is close at hand. Can’t come soon enough.

Lesson In Tractor

Lesson In Tractor

Teaching our 15-year-old grandson how to operate a tractor. Clutch, throttle, PTO, etc. Lots to learn…for both of us.

Our Multicolored Friend

Our Multicolored Friend

This little guy hangs out at our hydrant next to the deck. Sometimes green, nowadays more brown, still thriving despite some very cold weather for us.

Get Growing 2021

Get Growing 2021

We usually wait until Presidents’ Day Weekend to put seed to soil. But this year things are different. Here’s to a verdant season.

Don’t Be A Tease

Don’t Be A Tease

We love visiting local nurseries. Always looking for new ideas for The Orchard Compound. Spotted these words of wisdom at G E & B Nursery in Enumclaw. Nice folks. Be kind to your plants.

Mole Kill

Mole Kill

Should I be sad that this furry little creature has died or should I feel immense satisfaction? Forgive me. This battle has raged for many years.

Dreaming Of Spring

Dreaming Of Spring

Today’s sunny and bright weather was infectious. When we did our weekly shopping I got carried away at the seed display.

Gelatinous Goo

Gelatinous Goo

No, not the name of a punk rock band. We spotted this stuff on our midday walk here at home on a sunny day. More of the fungus among us. Always fascinating.