We went from this to this 

To our first snow fall.  

 At least 6" of snow.... 

image from Old Farmer's Almanac 

       ​It looks like a haven’t written for a few days.  You can see in the pictures that we have had a major snowstorm.  I need to ask Larry how much we got.  Yesterday afternoon he thought we had 5 to 6 inches, but it snowed till midnight.  I will let you know.  We didn’t have church today because of all the snow.  The wind came up after midnight, so the snow moved again.  Like many, Larry is cleaning up the snow.  Winter is here with the temperatures for the next 7 days below normal.  One night we will have -7F(-21C) Most days it will reach 20F(-7C).  Stay warm, stay safe. 
 
Australia family and friends have been having lots of rain.  Today, Monday Dec 1 they will still have rain, and the high will be 61F(16C) In their 10 days forecast I see 102F(39C).  So summer is going to start for them.  Stay dry, stay cool, stay safe.
 
I found this graphic, and I think it says it all.  I wonder if it is correct.  I am listening to Christmas songs, now that Thanksgiving is over with.  Most of them are on vinyl.  My mom would get one every year at the local hardware store.  So that makes them over 50 years old. Stay safe all.  Hope travel is better soon. 
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

image of underwatering houseplant from ar.inspiredpencil.com 

image of overwatering houseplant, from grow-gang.com 

Good morning, another cloudy, overcast day with rain.  Temperature is still mild today of 50F(10C) and a low of 25f(-4C).  But this is only the beginning of 10 days below normal temperatures.  Giving us a taste of winter in early December.  We will have high winds that will add to the winter like feeling.  Stay warm, stay dry, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends for Wed Nov 26 will have partly cloudy conditions and wind gusts up to 7 mph but 65% rain and a high of 68F(20C) Now we are having a big difference in our weather.  Stay dry, stay safe.

I need to follow this because this is what I have a hard time with houseplants in the house.  Watering.  I can do it fine in the greenhouse but in the house, there is always something else to do than water the plants.  I have several trays of plants I need a certain time to make sure they are done for sure.  How about you?  How are your houseplants?  It makes for having some green in our homes when the outside is getting to be more winter like. 
​
How to Water Houseplants the Right Way: Signs of Overwatering & Underwatering
Watering houseplants seems simple—until your peace lily starts sulking or your pothos looks parched. The truth is, watering is both an art and a science. Too much, and you’re basically giving your plants soggy feet. Too little, and they’ll give you the cold (and crispy) shoulder. Here’s how to strike the perfect balance and keep your leafy roommates lush, hydrated, and happy.
If you do an online search for “the number one reason why houseplants die,” you’ll see that just about every top result points to a single culprit: overwatering. If you’re blushing with recognition right about now, you’re not alone.
First, let’s talk about why houseplants need water in the first place.
Photosynthesis, the process by which plants make their food from the sun’s energy, requires both water and air to create the glucose that provides energy to the plant.  Water helps transport the nutrients and sugars produced by photosynthesis, as well as nutrients from the soil, to every part of the plant.Water evaporates through the leaves (in a process called transpiration) to help keep the plant cool. Plants are up to 95 percent water, and that water is key to strong, healthy cell structure. So, all of this may leave you thinking, since water is so important, more is better, right? Not quite.
Too much water can prevent oxygen from moving through the soil to reach the plant. If that happens, roots may begin to rot and, ironically, can no longer deliver the moisture the plant so desperately needs.
Eventually, the roots will die—and the plant along with it.
Of course, there’s also such a thing as underwatering (also called, let’s face it, forgetting to water). Without moisture, all the important processes mentioned above can’t happen. The result? The plant stops growing, the leaves turn dry and brown, the stem becomes brittle, and the plant will eventually die.
Houseplants can be especially susceptible to underwatering in the summer when they’re growing faster, there’s more light, and the surrounding temperature is higher—all of which translates into water disappearing more quickly from the soil through use and evaporation.
Signs of overwatering include droopy and/or yellowing leaves, leaves (even young ones) that fall off, mushy-feeling stems near the base of the plants, and soggy soil.
Signs of underwatering include leaves that droop (but perk up after watering), turn brown, begin to curl, and/or even get a bit crispy. You may also notice a gap between the dry soil and the inside of the pot.
Lots of people water their indoor plants every week on the same day, but while that may make it easier to remember, it’s not the best approach for your plants.
See, your houseplants don’t all use water at the same rate. Some may be thirstier than others, depending on the size of both the plant and pot, the amount of sun it gets, whether or not it’s actively growing, how hot and dry the room is, etc. That being said, it’s fine to choose one day a week as the check-in-on-your-plants day to see if they need watering!
Fortunately, the best way to ensure your houseplants get the right amount of water is the same.
Every few days, stick your finger into the soil. Generally, if the top inch of potting mix (2 inches for succulents) is dry, it’s time to water. You can also lift the pot to feel how heavy it is–if it feels oddly light, it’s time to water.
Using room-temperature water (not too cold!), water the soil evenly around the base of the plant until water begins to run out of the drainage holes in the pot—make sure you have a saucer underneath. (If there are no drainage holes, water until the soil is well moistened, then switch to a pot with holes the next time you repot in containers.)
It’s fine to use tap water, but if you live in an area with heavily chlorinated water, let it sit out uncovered overnight before using it to allow the chlorine to evaporate. Better yet, use water from your rain barrel.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my houseplants?
It depends on the plant type, pot size, and environment. Most houseplants need watering every 7–10 days, but always check the soil first. If the top inch of soil feels dry, it’s time to water. For succulents, wait until the top 2 inches are dry.
How do I know if I’m overwatering my plants?
Signs of overwatering include yellowing or droopy leaves, soggy soil, mold growth, and mushy stems. If your pot doesn’t have drainage holes, overwatering can happen easily—switch to one that does.
What does underwatering look like?
Underwatered plants have dry, curling, or crispy leaves that may droop but perk up after watering. You might also see soil pulling away from the edges of the pot.
Is tap water safe for houseplants?
Yes—most houseplants tolerate tap water just fine. However, if your water is heavily chlorinated, let it sit out overnight before watering so the chlorine can evaporate. Rainwater or filtered water is even better.
Should I mist my indoor plants?
Misting can help raise humidity, especially for tropical plants like ferns or calatheas. Just avoid misting succulents or fuzzy-leaved plants, which can develop rot.
What’s the best time of day to water houseplants?
Morning is ideal. It gives plants time to absorb moisture before the day’s warmth increases evaporation. Plus, any excess water on leaves will dry before night, helping prevent disease.
Can overwatered plants recover?
Yes—if caught early. Remove the plant from soggy soil, trim away any rotted roots, and replant in fresh, well-draining potting mix. Then, water sparingly until it bounces back.
See? It’s a pretty straightforward path to keeping your houseplants happily hydrated. Now, what about keeping your green friends nourished with food?
Taken from https://www.almanac.com/how-and-when-water-houseplants
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

image from unsplash.com 

      ​Good Monday morning.  We have clouds and fog.  The prediction is to have rain, and I think we will get some today and tonight.  It will be warm at 50F(10C) so no snow.  But it will be damp.  Stay dry, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends For Tuesday Nov 25 will be at 77F(25C) but they too are to have rain at 35%. One of the friends wrote it is almost getting humid out for them with the heat and the rain.  They have been having rain, so everything is looking green and growing.  I will post this week more pictures of the Botanic gardens and let you see what their spring is like.  Stay dry, stay safe.
 
In our Thanksgiving church message, Pastor said that Pres. Lincoln during the Civil War made this a national holiday. Somehow, I missed that in the history lessons I had.  This morning, I found this article about how it all happened thanks to a lady named Sarah.  Interesting read.
 
Sarah Josepha Hale: The Godmother of Thanksgiving Written By:  Catherine Boeckmann
Sarah Josepha Hale can be thanked for founding Thanksgiving!
This Thanksgiving, take a little time to remember Sarah Josepha Hale, the woman who helped make this National Day of Thanks possible.
Who Was Sarah Josepha Hale?
Sarah Josepha Buell was born on October 24, 1788, on a farm in Newport, New Hampshire. From a tender age, she was curious, smart, and eager to learn.
As a young girl, Sarah was taught by her mother about history and literature. Later, her brother Horatio taught her everything that he was learning as a student at Dartmouth College.
When Sarah was growing up, women were not accepted as teachers. However, this didn’t stop Sarah from founding a private school when she was 18 years old. She taught until she met David Hale. They married in 1813.
David encouraged Sarah to write short stories and articles. Many of these were published in local newspapers.
Suddenly, in 1822, David died, and Sarah Hale was left to care for their five children. To make ends meet, she first operated a women’s hat shop and later resumed teaching and writing. Soon, she published her first book of poems, including one that became the famous nursery rhyme “Mary Had a Little Lamb.” In 1827, she published her first novel.
John Blake of Boston read Hale’s novel and asked her to work for him on Ladies’ Magazine. She accepted and became the first woman editor of a magazine in the United States. Hale introduced new ideas and a new title, calling it American Ladies’ Magazine.
Within a few years, Louis Godey of Philadelphia had bought Blake’s magazine and merged it with Godey’s Lady’s Book, keeping Hale as editor.
How Did Sarah Josepha Hale Start Thanksgiving?
Throughout her time as an editor, Hale had written hundreds of letters to governors, ministers, newspaper editors, and every U.S. president with one request: that the last Thursday in November be set aside to “offer to God our tribute of joy and gratitude for the blessings of the year.”
Native American harvest festivals had taken place for centuries in North America, and there had long been colonists’ services to give thanks, but there had never been a Thanksgiving holiday.
In 1863, with the country torn by the Civil War, Hale’s campaign finally got people’s attention. That September, she put her Thanksgiving message into an editorial and wrote to President Abraham Lincoln, urging him to make Thanksgiving Day a fixed national festival.
Lincoln liked Hale’s idea. On October 3, 1863, he issued a proclamation declaring the last Thursday of November to be National Thanksgiving Day. He ordered all government offices in Washington to close on that day.
The Fourth Thursday in November
In 1939, store owners pressured President Franklin Roosevelt to move Thanksgiving Day to the third Thursday in November. They wanted more shopping days between Thanksgiving and Christmas. He did it, but millions of Americans continued to celebrate Thanksgiving Day on the last Thursday of November. In 1940, FDR realized his mistake. In December 1941, he assigned the holiday to the fourth Thursday in November.
Thanksgiving in Canada
Occasions for Thanksgiving in Canada have been observed for hundreds of years. Thanksgiving became a national holiday in 1879; its date each year was determined by proclamation. In 1957, Parliament set the second Monday in October as the fixed date “for general thanksgiving to Almighty God for the blessings with which the people of Canada have been favoured.
https://www.almanac.com/sarah-josepha-hale-godmother-thanksgiving?
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

image form miorganics.com.au

End of the day for me.  Have you ever taken one step ahead and then 6 steps back.  That was my day.  One reason is that I am late in posting this.  I got things done but seems like I was going backwards with them.  Hopefully tomorrow will go better.  I am going to blame it on the cloudy sky we have had all week.  Finally the clouds went away and the sun was out.  Now the sky is clear and blue.  Tracking a great weekend with some rain on Monday.  High Saturday and Sunday will be 50F(10C) with partly cloudy skies.  Sunday it will be clear.  Enjoy, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends for Sunday Nov 23 ,100% rain but will be warm at 71F(21C).  I saw pictures from this last weekend.  Kids were in shorts, sun shining and it looked awesome spring weather for them.  Enjoy and stay safe.

When we were visiting Australia, I noticed at the garden center this mushroom mulch.  This spring a gardener was telling me she was  using it.  This is some information about it. 
​
What Is Mushroom Compost and How To Use It
Learn the dirt on this nutrient-rich mulch—when to use it, when to skip it, and how to help your plants thrive.
Written By:  Lauren Landers
This natural mulch is becoming increasingly popular for growing ornamentals and edible crops. Below, you’ll find a basic rundown of the pros and cons of using mushroom compost, tips for sourcing and applying it, and a list of plants that you should and shouldn’t grow in mushroom compost.
What is Mushroom Compost?
Also known as spent mushroom compost (SMC) or spent mushroom substrate (SMS), mushroom compost is a byproduct left over from the edible mushroom industry. But it doesn’t contain any mushrooms!
Instead, mushroom compost is actually the leftover substrate that’s used to grow mushrooms, and it’s usually made from aged chicken or horse manure and/or composted straw, which has been heat-treated, sterilized, and amended with added limestone and sphagnum moss to help mushrooms grow better. However, once large-scale mushroom harvests are completed, all that leftover substrate can go to waste if it’s not repurposed into mushroom compost.
Spent mushroom compost is typically sold in bags or in bulk at garden centers or from soil suppliers. Dark, rich, and earthy, mushroom compost looks a lot like standard compost, and it has a similar use. However, mushroom compost differs from standard compost in a few important ways that can affect how it’s used in the garden and the types of plants you apply it to.
How is Mushroom Compost Different?
If you’ve ever used compost or aged manure in your garden, you should have no problem working with mushroom compost. Mushroom compost has many similarities to both compost and livestock manure, but it has a few differences that make it totally unique too!
Mushroom Compost vs Regular Compost
Standard compost and mushroom compost have a similar look and feel, and they can both contain manure or composted plant material, like rotted straw. These two amendments are filled with nutrients that help plants grow better, and they can improve soil structure and drainage as well. However, mushroom compost has a higher salt content and an alkaline pH, which can be more useful for balancing acidic soil but less suitable for alkaline gardens and plants that aren’t salt-tolerant.
Mushroom Compost vs. Cow Manure
Like compost, cow manure also contains nutrients that plants need, and it can be used to improve soil structure. But fresh cow manure contains a high concentration of nitrogen that can burn plants if it’s not aged or composted before application. Mushroom compost generally does not need further composting, and it can be applied to gardens as-is. But mushroom compost contains less nitrogen than cow manure, which can make it more suitable for growing fruiting or flowering plants but less efficient at boosting the growth of leafy greens.
Mushroom Compost Benefits and Drawbacks
The major difference between mushroom compost and other soil conditioners is that mushroom growers mix limestone and a few other additives into mushroom substrates to improve the growth of mushrooms. This added limestone makes mushroom compost more alkaline and calcium-rich than standard compost, which can benefit certain plants. However, mushroom compost isn’t suitable for every garden!
Typically has an alkaline pH that can balance acidic soils and reduce plant diseases like clubroot.       May make neutral or alkaline soils overly alkaline.
Easy to use, versatile, and budget-friendly if purchased in bulk. Can be difficult to source.
Can reduce weeds and improve soil drainage and water retention in sandy or heavy clay soils.   May cause drainage problems if not mixed with soil or other amendments.
Calcium content may prevent issues like blossom end rot.           Not suitable for acid-loving plants.
Why Should You Use Mushroom Compost?
Whether or not you use mushroom compost is a matter of personal choice, but it can be a smart decision for certain gardens. For starters, mushroom compost is budget-friendly when purchased in bulk. But it’s also easy to apply and can be used as weed-suppressing mulch or soil conditioner to fix a number of gardening woes!
Whether you have heavy clay or overly sandy soil, mushroom compost can help aerate dense beds and improve drainage and water retention. However, where mushroom compost really shines is in gardens with nutrient-poor and overly acidic soil. In these spaces, mushroom compost helps to balance pH issues so that plants can absorb nutrients more readily, and it enriches garden beds with organic matter.
How to Use Mushroom Compost in Your Garden
The best time to apply mushroom compost is either before planting a single plant or in spring or summer when plants do most of their growing. You can apply mushroom compost in autumn and winter, too. However, applying this product when plants aren’t actively growing can lead to some nutrient loss and make mushroom compost a little less effective.
Depending on your gardening goals, you can use mushroom compost in a few different ways. But first, you’ll want to pick out and discard any large pieces of limestone that you find in the compost to reduce some of the compost’s alkalinity. If the compost was gathered fresh from mushroom growers, you may also want to set it aside to rest or cure for a few weeks in an out-of-the-way corner of your garden. However, this isn’t necessary if you purchased bagged compost or bulk deliveries from landscaping companies.
If you’re starting a new garden, you can use mushroom compost to enrich your beds or correct soil issues by applying a 2-inch layer of compost and then working it into the top few inches of soil. If you grow plants in containers, you can also use mushroom compost to enrich potting mixes by blending about 1 part mushroom compost with 3 parts potting soil.
If you already have vegetables, fruit, or flowering plants growing in your garden, you can still apply mushroom compost either as a soil conditioner or natural mulch. Spread 2 inches of mushroom compost over your beds or around the base of your plants. You can either work the compost into the soil with a shovel or rake or leave it as-is and allow earthworms and rainfall to do the mixing for you. Just be sure to keep the mushroom compost at least 1 to 2 inches away from plant stems, as applying mulch or compost directly against plant tissue can cause rot.
Precautions and Considerations
Although mushroom compost has a number of perks, it’s not a standalone growing medium and needs to be mixed with soil or another substrate before use. Growing plants in unmixed mushroom compost can lead to poor root development, drainage issues, and other problems.
Due to its higher-than-average salt content, mushroom compost is not ideal for starting seeds or seedlings and should be used in moderation in containers. If you’re growing an organic garden, take note that mushroom compost isn’t always approved for organic gardening. However, if you ask around and do your research, you can likely track down mushroom compost from organic mushroom growers that’s safe to use in organic gardens!
Plants That Don’t Like Mushroom Compost
Mushroom compost is beneficial to many plants, including calcium-loving nightshades, as well as roses, petunias, and dahlias. It can also be particularly beneficial to brassica vegetables that may develop clubroot in overly acidic soils. That said, mushroom compost isn’t ideal for every garden, and you may want to avoid using it if you’re growing the following plants.
Highly salt-sensitive plants, like:
Some orchids
Ferns
Acid-loving plants, like:
 
Rhododendrons
Azaleas
Blueberries
Heaths and heathers
Citrus
Camellias
Some hydrangeas
Some fruiting plants, like currants, raspberries, and cranberries
 
What Plants Should I Use Mushroom Compost With?
Vegetable     Likes Mushroom Compost?        Notes
Tomatoes     ✅ Yes          Helps retain moisture and adds calcium — great for preventing blossom end rot.
Peppers         ✅ Yes          Thrive with improved drainage and nutrients from compost.
Cucumbers   ✅ Yes          Enjoys the organic matter; mix lightly into soil.
Squash (Zucchini, Pumpkin)        ✅ Yes          Benefits from the nutrients and moisture retention.
Corn   ✅ Yes          Heavy feeder — mushroom compost provides a good nutrient boost.
Lettuce & Leafy Greens    ⚠️ Lightly    Small amounts help, but too much can make soil too rich or alkaline.
Spinach         ❌ No           Prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil; mushroom compost is often too alkaline.
Carrots          ❌ No           Compost can cause forked roots; best in looser, sandier soil.
Beets  ⚠️ Caution  Can tolerate a little, but excessive compost raises soil pH too much.
Radishes        ⚠️ Caution  Use in moderation to avoid excess nitrogen (which promotes leaves, not roots).
Potatoes       ❌ No           High lime content in mushroom compost increases risk of scab.
Onions & Garlic      ⚠️ Lightly    Tolerate small amounts but prefer leaner, well-drained soil.
Beans & Peas           ⚠️ Caution  Can grow in it, but prefer less rich, neutral soil.
Broccoli, Cabbage, Kale (Brassicas)       ✅ Yes          Love the extra calcium and nutrients — great pairing!
Taken from https://www.almanac.com/what-mushroom-compost-and-how-use-it
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

Good morning…low clouds but seeing more blue sky hopefully the sun will come out.  It is warmer out high today 49F(9C) stay warm, stay safe. 
 
Australia family and friends for Friday Nov 21, 2025,  high for them will be 65F(18C) and clear with sunshine.   stay safe and ENJOY.
 
I wrote to a friend showing her what I am doing now with ordering plant plugs.  I asked her if I should share it with you.  She said yes, she finds it fascinating.  Here is what I mean when I am ordering plant plugs.  I have ordered begonias, pansies, and some vegetables as in cabbage, celery, collards and Kohlrabi. 

Today I will order celosia and Coleus plugs. Celosia I ordered last year isn’t available.  They might have a hard time getting the seeds, or the plant plugs didn’t sell well but that is up to them.  What you see is the varieties and sizes of the plug trays. From 40 to 512 plants in a plug tray. What kind to order?  What colors?  How many?
I must plan on when for them to ship the plug trays.  Minimum order is 8 plug trays. I order to have them come every week, so it gives me time to get them planted before the next order comes in.  I must think about growing time and having them ready for the spring sales.  I don’t get them all planted in one week but work on it.  I must decide what to plant these plug plants in.  small 4 packs, large 4 packs, single 4”, baskets and adding large containers to the list. 
 I must do this with each variety I get from plug trays. I order around 200 varieties so the order will take a few days.   
I sent this order to a broker, and she put it in the order.  I pay the company that the broker works for.   The grower then doesn’t have to bill each of us. The broker and the company have several growers to choose from. Does that make sense?
I can do one order a day to get my mind around it all. Just for your information.    Wish me good luck. 
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

image from freeimages.com 

      ​Good afternoon.  I am posting this after 2:00 PM. It is cloudy out, and so damp the air feels like water drops when you walk.  40F(4C) feels like 36F(2C).   We are having a cold, gray day.  Stay warm, stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends are having a warming up for their spring weather.  Now for their day Thursday Nov 20 it will be high of 61F(16C) but yesterday they had a high of 22C.  They too are having cloudy weather but warmer.  Enjoy and stay safe. 
 
Have you ever heard the adage, “red sky at night, sailor’s delight”?  Long before meteorologists reported the weather, people made forecasts based on their observations of the sky, animals, and nature. Much of the traditional weather lore is surprisingly accurate.
“Red sky at night, sailors delight. Red sky in morning, sailors take warning.”
Where the Saying Came From  Sailors and farmers relied on this weather saying to navigate ships, plant crops, and plan activities. It has been a common adage through the ages!
In the Bible, there is a passage in which Jesus says, “When it is evening, you say, ‘It will be fair weather; for the sky is red.’ And in the morning, ‘It will be stormy today, for the sky is red and threatening.’” (Matthew 16:2–3)
In his poem, “Venus and Adonis,” William Shakespeare, also wrote about the red sky: “Like a red morn that ever yet betokened, Wreck to the seaman, tempest to the field, Sorrow to the shepherds, woe unto the birds, Gusts and foul flaws to herdsmen and to herds.”
What Science Says  Do you see a red sky at night? That means the Sun is setting in the west. We see red (and not other colors) because only the longer wavelengths (red and orange) can pass through our atmosphere, which is filled with dust and pollution. When there is a high-pressure system, the air sinks even further, creating a more vibrant red.
High pressure, however, means dry, clear weather is coming. Weather moves west to east, which means the high pressure is moving east. The good news is not only that we see pretty sunsets but also enjoy dry, fair weather. Clear weather would “delight” a sailor.
Conversely, a reddish sunrise means that dry air from the west has already passed over us on its way east, clearing the way for a storm to move in. The high-pressure air has most likely already passed from the west to the east, and an area of low pressure may follow. Low pressure usually brings clouds, rain, or storms, a warning for sailors that bad weather is moving in.
Does the Saying Hold True?
Yes, this phrase makes meteorological sense.
If the evening sky is especially red, this means that there is a high-pressure system, and the sunrays must travel through a higher concentration of dust particles. This means that stable air is coming in from the west. Good weather is on its way.
If it’s a red sky in the morning, that means the high-pressure system has passed, and a low-pressure system is moving in. Rain and bad weather are on their way.
Note: While weather generally moves west to east, sometimes storms can move from south to north. In those cases, this saying wouldn’t apply!
Other Weather Sayings and Their Meanings
“The higher the clouds, the finer the weather.”
If you spot wispy, thin cirrus clouds up where airplanes fly, expect a spell of pleasant weather.
Keep an eye, however, on the smaller puffy clouds (cumulus), especially in the morning or early afternoon. If the rounded tops of these clouds, which have flat bases, grow higher than their widths, there’s a chance of a thunderstorm forming.
“Clear Moon, frost soon.”
When the night sky is clear, Earth’s surface cools rapidly as the heat from the day radiates back into the atmosphere.
There is no cloud cover to keep the heat in.
If the night is clear enough to see the Moon and the temperature drops enough, frost will form. Expect a chilly morning!-
“When clouds appear like towers, the Earth is refreshed by frequent showers.”
When you spy large, white clouds that look like cauliflower or castles in the sky, there is probably lots of dynamic weather going on inside. Innocent clouds look like billowy cotton, not towers. If the clouds start to swell and take on a gray tint, they’re probably turning into a thunderstorm. Watch out!
“Rainbow in the morning gives you fair warning.”
A rainbow in the morning indicates that a shower is in your near future. Why? The Sun is in the east when it rises. We know that weather moves from west to east. So, if you see a rainbow near sunrise in the east, that means the rain is coming your way!
“Ring around the Moon? Rain or snow real soon.”
Clouds that appear as high as the Moon are made of ice crystals. These cirrostratus clouds appear as thin sheets that stretch across the sky and indicate the approach of rain or snow.
When these cirrostratus clouds pass in front of the Moon, the ice crystals catch the light of the Moon and act as prisms,- forming a white or colorful ring around the Moon.
Thus, a ring around the Moon often indicates cirrus clouds. The warm front is advancing with an associated area of low pressure, and precipitation in the form of rain or snow may follow!
“Mackerel sky, storm is nigh.”
If you have ever seen very high, rippled clouds that look like fish scales, sailors call it a “mackerel sky” and indicate that a storm may follow.
A mackerel sky refers to high-up cirrocumulus clouds. These clouds often precede an advancing warm front that will bring winds and precipitation. See more about identifying clouds in the sky.
“A year of snow, a year of plenty.”
Snow that blankets the land has many benefits! First, it kills a lot of plant pests. Second, it delays the blossoming of fruit trees until the season of killing frosts is over. Third, it prevents thawing and freezing cycles.
Finally, have you ever heard the expression, “snow is a poor man’s fertilizer”? Snow slowly releases nitrogen, providing healthier soil for growing!
“Rain foretold, long last. Short notice, soon will pass.”
If you find yourself toting an umbrella around for days “just in case,” rain will stick around for several hours when it finally comes. The gray overcast dominating the horizon means a large area is affected. Conversely, if you get caught in a surprise shower, it’s likely to be short-lived.
Taken from https://www.almanac.com/weather-sayings-and-their-meanings
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

Can you tell what succulent this is?  Quiz today image fromruralsprouts.com 

Give a try what plant these leaves are from?  Image from artofit.org

You should know this one?  image from nurserylady.com 

​Good morning, cloudy, rainy and high on at  41F(5C)  Rain this morning, clouds this afternoon.  But it hasn’t snowed yet. Stay warm, stay dry, stay safe.
 
Australia friends and family for Wed Nov. 19  high of 72F(2C)  wind gusts up to 12MPH with cloudy skies.  Stay cool, stay safe. 
 
Answer to the images:  Yesterday I mislabeled a plant, but I think I got these.

1. Aloe vera with pups
2. Echeveria
3. Hens/chicks

 
This is what I need to be doing, and I will love it.  But first I need to find the potting table as it is a flat surface, I pile things on.  ( Ask Marianne about my flat surfaces.)  I am working in that area now.  Have fun if you want to gain more succulents.  It is easy.
How to propagate succulents  Written By:  Lauren Landers
If you’re a sucker for succulents but don’t want to keep buying new ones—or need to rescue a broken stem or fallen leaf—you’re in luck. Succulents like jade, aloe, and echeveria are some of the easiest plants to multiply at home. With just a single cutting or leaf, you can grow a brand-new plant—no special tools or green thumb required!
I learned how to propagate succulents a few years ago because I wanted to expand my collection without spending more at the garden center. But succulent propagation is useful for more than just making new plants. It’s also a great way to fix leggy or overgrown succulents and save damaged ones that might otherwise be tossed.
In this beginner’s guide, I’ll walk you through three methods for growing new succulents, providing step-by-step instructions.
Aloe vera plants, tropical green plants tolerate hot weather.
3 Easy Ways to Propagate Succulents
There are a few different ways to grow new succulents, depending on the type of plant you’re working with:
Stem Cuttings – Ideal for jade, sedum, echeveria, and elephant bush. Snip a healthy stem and root it in soil after letting it callus.
Leaf Cuttings – Perfect for echeveria, sedum, and burro’s tail. A single, intact leaf can sprout roots and a new baby plant.
Pups or Offshoots – Some succulents, like aloe vera and haworthia, naturally produce baby plants (called pups) that can be separated and repotted.
Succulent leaf propagation with roots
Each leaf can grow roots—and a brand-new succulent! Credit: Product Photo Co
Choose a Healthy Parent Plant
Whether you’re growing succulents indoors or out, it’s important to choose healthy succulent stems and leaves for propagation. It’s totally fine to propagate overgrown, leggy, or broken plants, but the cuttings or leaves you select should look plump and have a healthy color to increase your chances of success.
It’s also wise to avoid propagating plants that are flowering or have pest issues, as they may not have enough energy to produce new roots! Succulent propagation works best when the source plant is actively growing and pest-free.
Succulents You Can Propagate
Jades, echeveria, and hens and chicks can all be propagated from stem or leaf cuttings. But you can also propagate other common succulents like:
Aloes – typically propagate from pups
Sedums – root easily from both leaves and stems
Haworthia – often produces pups at the base
String of pearls
Kalanchoe
Burro’s tail
Elephant bush (Portulacaria afra)
Try a few different types if you’re new to propagating succulents—it helps to see what works best in your space and conditions.
How to Propagate Succulents
Propagation techniques vary slightly between different types of succulents, but most follow the same basic steps. Some succulent cuttings can be propagated in water, but most root best in a soilless potting media.
In general, it’s best to take cuttings from plants when they’re actively growing in spring or summer. However, you can propagate damaged or broken plants at other times of the year.
Whether you’re propagating stems, leaves, or larger sections of leggy plants, here’s a step-by-step look at how to propagate succulents—and what tools you’ll need for the job.
Tools and Materials for Succulent Propagation
Healthy succulent plant
Sharp knife or pruning shears
Rubbing alcohol (to sanitize blades)
Small pots or seed-starting trays
Succulent and cactus potting mix
Rooting hormone (optional, but can help)
Babies grow on mother plant. Hen and Chicks succulent with offsets or pups growing under the healthy mature plant.
A perfect example of “like mother, like pup!” This Hen and Chicks succulent grows baby offsets (or “chicks”) right beneath the main rosette, ready to thrive on their own. Credit: Christina Siow
Step 1: Take a Cutting
If you’re propagating a stem cutting, sterilize your knife with rubbing alcohol. Then, cut a healthy stem from the parent plant at a leaf node. Ideally, your cutting should be at least 2 inches long with a few leaves attached. If you’re propagating a broken stem, trim off the broken stem end with a smooth, clean cut.
If you’re dealing with a leggy succulent, cut the leggy top off the parent plant, leaving 1 to 2 inches of stem and some leaves attached to the base. Trim off any leggy bits from the top section of the stem you removed and return the rooted bottom of the plant to a spot that receives bright, indirect light so it can regrow.
If you’re propagating a succulent leaf, gently twist or pull the leaf from the stem, making sure the base of the leaf stays intact. Leaves that are cut off the parent plant generally won’t propagate well.
For offshoots or pups, remove the entire plant from its pot and gently separate the baby plant from the base of the mother plant, or trim it away with your knife. This is the easiest way to propagate plants like haworthia and aloes!
Succulent leaves and parts prepared for propagation
Succulent starters ready to grow! These healthy leaves and cuttings are prepped for propagation—just add patience. Credit: daphne.t
Step 2: Prep for Planting
After you’ve collected your cuttings or leaves, don’t plant them right away. Instead, place them on a clean plate or paper towel in a warm, dry, shaded spot for a few days. This allows the cut end to callus over, which helps prevent rot when the cutting is planted in soil. For leaves, you can just set them out flat. For stems, you might prop them upright in an empty pot or tray to dry.
If rooting is slow, you can place a heating mat under the tray to speed things up. Just don’t rush it—some succulent varieties take longer than others.
Tiny succulents take root! Each fallen leaf sprouts a new plant, turning this tray into a bed of baby succulents in the making. Credit: 5Foote
Step 3: “Plant” the Cutting
Once the cuttings have had a chance to callus, it’s time to plant.
Stem cuttings: Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional) and insert it about 1 inch deep into premoistened cactus and succulent potting mix.
Leaves: Fill pots or a seed-starting tray with a succulent potting mix. Lay the leaves out flat on the surface of the soil so they aren’t touching. Don’t bury them.
Pups and offshoots: You don’t need to wait for them to callus. These usually come with small roots already. Simply plant them in individual pots with a cactus and succulent potting mix—like any small plant.
Choose shallow trays or small pots with drainage holes and use a well-draining mix designed for cacti and succulents.
Crassula succulent plant rooting from a cutting
This Crassula cutting is putting down roots—even a small stem can start a whole new succulent! Credit: Aninka Bongers-Sutherland
Caring for Newly Propagated Succulents
Once you’ve “planted” stem cuttings and leaves, move them into a section of your home that receives bright, indirect light—not full sun. Mist or water them lightly when the top 1/4 inch of soil feels dry.
You can also add a heating mat beneath your pots or seedling trays if you want them to root a little faster. Just don’t cover the cuttings with a humidity dome or plastic—excess humidity can make succulent cuttings rot!
Rooting takes time. Stem cuttings often root within a few weeks. Leaf cuttings will first grow tiny “pups,” followed by roots. You’ll know a cutting has rooted when it starts growing again or resists a gentle tug.
What to Do Once Your Succulents Root
Stem cuttings: Once rooted, repot them into well-draining pots filled with succulent potting mix (if needed).
Leaf pups: Let the baby plants grow on the surface of the soil for a month or two. During this time, the pups feed off the original leaf, but you should mist them lightly if the soil feels dry. Once they develop roots, you can plant them (leaf and all) into their own pots.
Be gentle during this process. Plantlets are delicate, and they’ll establish faster with minimal disruption.
Bright, indirect sunlight
Water sparingly (only when soil dries out)
Fertilizer is not always needed. Optional: Lightly fertilize with a diluted, liquid organic fertilizer in spring.
Succulents are low-maintenance, but newly propagated plants may need a bit more babying until they’re rooted and growing.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Although most succulents are relatively easy to propagate, you may still run into a few issues when growing them.
Rot: Occurs when cuttings are kept too damp or in high humidity. Let cuttings dry thoroughly before planting and avoid overwatering.
No roots: Some cuttings take longer. Be patient, and try adding bottom heat or rooting hormone.
Shriveled leaves: If a leaf cutting shrivels up before rooting, try again with a fresher, plumper leaf and be sure to let it callus.
I find that taking more cuttings than you think you’ll need is a good idea—propagation is a numbers game.
Time to put down roots! Transplanting propagated succulents into their own pots gives these young plants room to grow.
From aloes to ZZ plants, there are so many succulents to choose from and plants to propagate. Don’t worry if your first attempt doesn’t work perfectly. Practice definitely makes perfect. If your first propagation attempts don’t produce viable plants, try again with new cuttings or leaves. Sooner than you think, you’ll have a few new succulents on your hands—and a new skillset in your pocket!
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

Houseplants moved to our house.  Hope I can keep them alive.  

​Good morning.  It was predicted to be cloudy and gloomy today.  I think that is moving in later today.  Right now, at 9:30AM it is high clouds with lots of sunshine.  That makes it feel warmer out.  Today, it will be 49F(9C).  Low tonight still going to be warm at 35F(2C)  Chance of rain later and tonight.  We could use some rain.  It isn’t that white stuff yet.  Stay warm, stay safe. 
 
Australia family and friends for Nov 18th Tuesday will have 72F(22C) with 40% of rain.  Lovely temperature and a spring rain are good.  Stay dry, stay safe. 

I have moved the houseplant little containers to the house.  I usually don’t do well with houseplants in the house.  But if it gets too cold in the greenhouse, you know what happens to them.  So far, they are doing well. I do enjoy having green plants in the house before I start plants for next spring.  I do have aloe vera, Jade, succulents and cactus still in the greenhouse.  We do heat the greenhouse so they will do fine. 

I never knew about this houseplant till I started to raise them.  Do you have one with your houseplants?  Here is how to grow them, which seems easy. 

Advice about repotting hoya “ Snip circling or girdling roots and gently loosen the root ball if it is pot-bound.”  One thing you might not know what to do. 
​
With their cascading vines, glossy leaves, and starry blooms, hoyas are the houseplants you didn’t know you needed—until now.  Written By:  Andy Wilcox
Meet the hoya—your new leafy best friend with serious star power! Known as the “wax plant” for its shiny leaves and clusters of starlike flowers, hoyas are a dream for anyone who loves lush greenery without the high-maintenance drama. Whether cascading from a hanging basket or climbing gracefully up a trellis, these tropical beauties thrive indoors with bright light and a little love. Ready to become a certified “hoya head”? Let’s dive into how to plant, grow, and care for these stunning trailing houseplants.
Hoyas are a genus of evergreen perennial plants native to tropical and subtropical areas, and over 500 species have been identified. They are mostly creeping or vining, and many species love something to climb. In nature, many are epiphytic, meaning they grow on other plants and have no attachment to the soil.
In temperate areas in North America, many species are popular houseplants with attractive leaves and beautiful, often scented flowers. The plants grow well indoors and prefer bright light. They will tolerate fairly low light levels but may not flower.
Creeping types of hoyas look lovely in a hanging basket, or allow them to spill over their pot and trail down off the shelf. Some hoyas like to climb, so plan accordingly when selecting a variety.
Hoyas have simple, oppositely arranged leaves, but with a genus composed of many members, the variation in leaf shape is huge. In fact, many people who refer to themselves as ‘hoya heads’ collect dozens or hundreds of species just for this fact: Hoyas have a never-ending selection of foliage shapes and textures.
Hoyas do flower and and the blossoms are generally shaped like five-pointed stars. Some, like the Hoya lacunosa, have fragrant flowers! The flowers are frequently borne in clusters, forming a ball or sphere. Many individual flowers are small, but some species sport blooms up to 3 inches in diameter.
With such a large genus, the cold hardiness of hoyas varies. While they are warm-weather plants, some can tolerate a bit of cold. Generally, hoyas can be grown outside in USDA Zone 9 and warmer. Check the tag on the specific plant you purchased, as some varieties are less hardy than others.
When growing hoyas as houseplants, you can plant them in the same manner as other tropical houseplants, paying special attention to drainage. Outdoors, hoyas need a well-draining spot with gentle light.
As houseplants, hoyas can be planted whenever you bring them home. Don’t feel you have to leave them in the tiny pot they came in. If you are going to plant them outside, it’s best to do so in spring to early summer, but again, they can be planted at other times with care. Like other houseplants, they are less active in winter, so wait for spring to repot them when they need a bigger home.
Hoyas can be purchased as small plants, commonly in 4-6 inch pots, online or at a garden center. Larger hoyas are also available in ready-for-display mode, at higher cost. If you purchase a very young plant, you may need to let it grow a bit before planting it outdoors.
Choose a shallow pot with excellent drainage. Although they are tropical plants, soggy growing medium can still lead to root rot. Use a growing medium designed for succulents, or mix potting soil with perlite to ensure excellent drainage.
Snip circling or girdling roots and gently loosen the root ball if it is pot-bound.
Replant your hoya at the same depth below the surface of the growing medium as before.
Press the new growing medium down lightly but firmly around the plant—don’t compact it, but you want to eliminate any air pockets.
Hoyas are known for their ease of care. As long as they have good drainage and regular watering, they’ll be pretty happy.
Hoyas don’t mind getting a bit crowded in their pot. When repotting, choose a new container that is only an inch or two larger than the old one and loosen the roots a bit.
Hoyas like the filtered sunlight found under a forest canopy. If grown outside, give them a spot with gentle morning sun and midday through afternoon shade, or place them under a canopy where they’ll receive only brief periods of sunlight. Indoors, give them a spot near a window but out of direct sunlight.
Hoyas will benefit from a monthly application of general houseplant fertilizer, following the package directions. Diluting the fertilizer in water works well. If grown outdoors in the ground, provide a balanced product two or three times during the summer.
Hoyas are easy to propagate. Follow these steps:
Select a piece of stem with two nodes.
Remove any leaves on the lower portion of the stem.
Fill a clear-walled jar or vase with water and place the cutting inside. More than one cutting can be rooted in the same container, but they may be difficult to separate later.
Submerge the node. If your tap water is heavily treated by your municipality, use bottled water.
Place the jar in a brightly lit spot out of direct sunlight.
Change the water twice per week to keep it fresh.
Your cuttings should start to root in a few weeks. Once the baby roots are about an inch or two long, transplant them to a moist potting mix. Two parts coir to one part perlite is an ideal starter mix to train them to grow out of water.
Taken from https://www.almanac.com/plant/hoya-plants
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

Spring/summer 2025, so we went from this to....

to this.... This is what I have been working on.  Finally, it is done.  

       ​Looking outside at a clear blue sky and temperatures is mild at 39F(3C) We could set some record highs of high 69(20C).  All I am going to say is Enjoy.  Stay safe.
 
Australia family and friends for Saturday Nov 15 will have a high of 75F(24C) which will be more like summer weather for them.  On Sunday it looks like rain, but they want to get as much as they can to help with the very hot Jan and Feb weather.  Stay cool, stay safe.
 
I have pictures of the blacktop this spring/summer.  Yesterday we got the blacktop emptied of pots, racks, and stuff.  That part of my greenhouse work is done.  I can’t believe that it is all done.  Thanks to grandsons, and Larry for helping with that work. Now I will work inside organizing and cleaning.  It seems like a long time I have been telling you I need to compost and clean up plants.  Larry thinks this weekend, he will have the north end all done, which will be awesome.
 
Just for your information.  Word has come out that the Farmers’ Almanac is done with publication.  I use a lot of the Old Farmer’s Almanac, and this is what the editor posted about them. They are going strong. 
The Old Farmer's Almanac, Founded in 1792
Dear Readers,
Last week, I learned that another longtime almanac has ceased operations. I wanted to let you know that The Old Farmer’s Almanac isn't shutting down. In fact, we’re thriving!.
We are 234 years strong and will endure as the oldest continuously published periodical in North America. As sure as the seasons change, we will continue to publish our annual edition—with our much-anticipated weather forecasts—in print and digital for generations to come.
 Just as with the first edition, we’re constantly in conversation with our readers and use your feedback to keep us relevant. And whether you’re a lifelong reader of The Old Farmer’s Almanac or new to our publications and online offerings, we want to thank you for being a part of our story.
 Your Friend at The Old Farmer’s Almanac,  Carol Connare  Editor, The Old Farmer's Almanac
 
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse

​ I adore an early morning walk through the gardens, especially when there’s a misty fog hovering.
These photos are featuring some of the plants in The Garden For Life where there’s a depthless water feature and seats for families to enjoy in the warmer weather.

​Friends of the Sale Botanic Gardens
Even though the Echiums, commonly known as Pride of Maderia are fading, the pollinators are still visiting. Pictured alongside the honey bee is the Yellow Admiral butterfly which is native to Australia, New Zealand, Lord Howe Island and Norfolk Island.

Good morning, and another awesome Indian Summer Day.  Temperature will be close to 60F(16C) today.  More clouds than yesterday but the slight breeze is out of the south.  It is time to work outside again.  I hopefully will get all I need to clean up and move inside today. Larry is busy moving things around for the winter and out of the way of snow.  I usually do weekly letters to shut ins and youth, but I haven’t been doing that till I get the outside work picked up.  Hopefully I can finish that today.  And get back to my weekly mailings.  I give out about 20 each week.   How are you coming?  Looks like next week it will be cooler, so the time is now.  Stay safe and enjoy. 
 
Australia family and friends are enjoying their spring weather.  Today, Nov 14 Friday will be a little warmer than us. High of 66F(18C).  Evelyn wrote that she had picked her cherries from her cherry tree.  Larry helped her develop a netting system so the birds don’t enjoy them before she can pick them.   Stay safe, and enjoy.
 
I am posting pictures from the Friends of the Sale Botanic Garden to give us some enjoyment out of spring with them.  Larry and I got to meet this volunteer as one of Evelyn’s friends, so that makes it more special.  Enjoy spring from down under. 

​Friends of the Sale Botanic Gardens  November 5 at 12:24 AM
 I adore an early morning walk through the gardens, especially when there’s a misty fog hovering.
These photos are featuring some of the plants in The Garden For Life where there’s a depthless water feature and seats for families to enjoy in the warmer weather.
​
Friends of the Sale Botanic Gardens
Even though the Echiums, commonly known as Pride of Maderia are fading, the pollinators are still visiting. Pictured alongside the honey bee is the Yellow Admiral butterfly which is native to Australia, New Zealand, Lord Howe Island and Norfolk Island.
​
Till next time this is Becky Litterer, Becky’s Greenhouse, Dougherty Iowa [email protected]  641-794-3337  cell 641-903-9365  Beckysgreenhouse.com  Facebook Becky Kerndt Litterer or Becky’s Greenhouse