Out With Prickly Pear Cactus
Working with granddaughter Megan’s suggestion, the Prickly Pear Cactus bed got dug out today . . . again. Actually we dug the cactus out several years ago and they were not about to go away. Each year there were fingerlings that popped up. This spring there were some coming up in the crack of the drive.
While Dennis checked his eyelids for cracks this early morning, Snuggles and I got the wheelbarrow out and started digging the dirt out of this bed next to the house. Dennis said I could dump the dirt in the far backyard and we would make use of it to fill in a low spot. The Prickly Pear Cactus would become his challenge.
As I dug I noticed a wasp hanging around. When I took a break I realized he was protecting a hill of dirt that I thought was an ant hill. I got out the Hot Shot flying insect spray and tried my aim on hitting him on the fly. Whether I got him or just scared him off, I don’t know. I for sure dug that entire area down quite a ways. When I came in the house to get some water, I checked on the Internet and it seems the Cicada Wasp makes tunnels in the dirt for their nests. I don’t think she had quite succeeded in making her nest but it is history now. I did read to use a solution of vinegar and water to get the best of their area. I didn’t fool around, I used the vinegar full strength. I was finished with the dig by nine this morning and came inside to put on dry clothes. The worst part of any project is starting and now that is behind me and . . . my behind appreciated the dry clothes.
With a huge amount of dirt removed, Dennis and I did a road trip to New Ulm to Runnings. We now have six bags of Miracle Grow dirt for gardens. It is complete with fertilizer. Dennis had a few want items on his list so the trip was very successful. He happened to find a bag of Circus Peanuts next to the cash register. I noticed he pinched them through the bag and must have deemed they were fresh. Yes . . . he shared a few on the way home.
When we got home, the day was called “done” due to the heat. Tomorrow is another day and there are no hard and fast plans. It all depends on the weather and if Snuggles will lend a hand again.