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ms-nesbit · 1 year

Text

Sugar and Spice

a jason todd x reader fanfic

Rating: 18+ (minors dni)

word count: 5.4k

warnings/notes: mention of trauma and abuse, Jason Todd isn't Red Hood, explicit content, smut, panic attack

summary: jason is a baker with cake, and y/n a horticulturist with a chance to sow her wild oats.

AO3

“And would you like that for here or to go?”

The streets of Gotham buzzed with citizens despite the imminent crime, visitors entering and leaving famous Zia’s, a bakery home to Gotham’s finest breads and pastry sweets. Inside the confined space displayed an array of baked goods, its floor littered with customers clutching their tong and red plastic tray.

In a rouge apron dusted with crumbs and splotches of icing and egg, Jason tended to the confectionery inventory, carrying a large metal pan holding marranitos (Mexican cookies baked in the shape of a pig) on one hand, and a smaller metal pan containing sourdough bread on his other. The dark, robust waft of molasses and ginger filled the air, catching the attention of some of Zia’s more loyal patrons.

“That fresh?!” one blurted.

Jason vaguely smiled behind him before attending to replacing the pan on its designated shelf. “Always.”

As much as Zia’s advertised its pastries, certain Gothamites - single ones with more time than they should have been allotted - spread merry news of eye candy in the shop, drawing more attention than Zia’s owner, Aurelio, expected.

One, a man named Ed, passed a whisper to y/n, who worked nearby at the Gotham Nursery as a horticulturist: “You know, y/n, if you’re ever looking for a snack for your sweet tooth, you could just stop by.”

His expression faltered, as if he was holding something back, but y/n disregarded it as she loaded his plants onto the trunk of his 4x4, and sent him on his way with a brief, “I’ll be sure. As always, thank you for coming, Eddie.”

She hadn’t given the recommendation much thought until on her lunch, when she stopped by Zia’s and stepped into the bumbling bluster of business. Then, as Jason emerged from the kitchen of the bakery with hands full of crumbly tricolor polvorones and loaves of rye bread, his bottom lip tucked in between his teeth in concentration and tee shirt sleeves rising up just enough for all to see his toned biceps, y/n understood Ed’s undertones.

“Excuse me.” a voice from behind snapped y/n’s attention, causing her to turn around to a stern, tight-lipped woman blinking at her. “Would you mind moving over so I could go in there?” she pointed to the shelves y/n blocked, her question seeming more of a kind demand rather than an inquiry.

Nodding feverishly as she stepped aside, y/n bumped into a sturdy tall figure, a string of apologies leaving her lips before her eyes met a pair of hazel, a mix of greens and grays swimming in his irises.

“I’m-I’m so, so, sorry.” y/n was captivated, distracted by the baker’s face shape as he stared down at her with an understanding grin.

“It’s okay, it happens all the time.” the man swiped loose sugar granules from his apron, prompting y/n to take her gaze away from his face and onto the mess of cinnamon sugar on the floor.

“Oh, jeez, do you need me to—”

The man waved a hand in y/n’s direction to calm her down. “Again, it happens a lot. Are you new here?” He used his free arm to catch Aurelio’s attention, who passed him a broom and dustpan to begin cleaning the faint piles of sugar.

Y/n shook her head. “Yeah, I’m not used to this kind of foot traffic.” She squatted on the ground and helped collect particles off the ground with her hands.

Brushing her pile into the maroon dustpan, he glanced at her work uniform. “I didn’t know that Gotham had a botanical garden.” He looked at y/n, his thick, pearl strands of hair falling from his hair net. Y/n felt the stare, and had to bow her head to hide the passing blush tickling her skin.

“You should stop by sometime.” Y/n shrugged when she and the man stood on their feet, disregarding the crowd staggering impatiently around them. “I could analyze your soil’s pH, or even recommend some plants depending on your living situation.”

Y/n watched the man’s adam’s apple bob before he spoke. “And what about a five-hundred square feet flat?”

“There are ways to accommodate the situation if you’re willing. It just takes the right pair of hands and mindset.” y/n gave the man a smile, to which he reciprocated, his soft skin forming ripples from it.

She swallowed the warmth she felt in her stomach, an unfamiliar sensation she whisked away as she followed the man to the checkout counter. His back turned to her, y/n was able to take in his other features: his broad shoulders, appearing almost heavy on his torso, and the merlot tee shirt lazily tucked under the waistband of his washed jeans, which were partially ripped along parts of his left knee and right ankle. Y/n blinked away her urge to follow the natural curvature of his legs up to his ass, though she would admit that her id was pleased with the crumbs of image it viewed.

“Do you think you could show me what I could do? Doc has told me that I need to, uh, spruce up my space.” The man rested his hands on the counter, marginally leaning over it to inch closer to y/n in flirtation.

Y/n couldn’t meet his hazel eyes, unwilling to be enchanted by whatever undertones he was trying to communicate; though, to her dismay, he did attract her, even with the hair net clumping his seemingly soft hair in place, and the poorly executed pun. So she obliged, just a bit. “I work today till six, if you’re able.” one of her shoulders bounced, as if she felt apathetic about his advances.

But he, unbeknownst to y/n, was stubborn. “I can manage.” he wrinkled his nose playfully at her, eyes flickering between her blank stare and her suppressed grin. “My name is Jason, by the way.”

Jason. Like the killer. “Nice to meet you. Here’s the address.” y/n slid a business card across the counter in Jason’s direction, back beginning to turn. “I’ll see you there.”

“Wait, I didn’t catch your name.” Jason called out across the store to her, unbothered by the several customers stopping to look for y/n.

With a hand to the door handle, pushing the heavy door open, y/n looked over her shoulder, said flatly, “I guess you’ll have to find out.” and left with a few strides, disappeared from Jason’s sight.

“I’m gonna find out alright.” Jason murmured, a corner of his lips turning into a grin.

—

The Gotham Nursery began winding down in visitors, employees cloaking its temperature-sensitive annuals with thick tarp as they prepared for the chilly night ahead. Y/n checked her watch, then the nursery’s entrance, a habit she built as the day passed. Was I too passive? She thought as she hauled mulch across the store lot. Did he forget about me? She mused as she jotted down plant observations in the greenhouse.

Y/n indulged the information about her encounter with Jason to her coworker, Xoe, who was more than enthused about it. Each passing hour, Xoe would cross paths with y/n, bugging her about whether or not she had seen Jason.

It wasn’t until five minutes until closing when Jason arrived, parking his sleek, rumbling motorcycle in a compact spot. A couple of the employees noticed him, and rolled their eyes in frustration, mistakenly thinking that he was a customer, not y/n’s visitor.

Y/n locked herself in the nursery’s greenhouse with her choi sum mustard leaves, using a dainty stick to lift the heavy leaves of the plant. She wrote down the subtle changes in the plant’s behavior, noting the thickness of the leaves after incorporating iron-rich soil.

“Y/n?” Xoe asked, peeking through the polycarbonate door, evoking y/n to look up from her work. “Someone named Jared is here to see you.” Xoe then gave y/n a wink, intentionally mistaking Jason’s name.

“Sure, he can come in. Thanks, Xoe.”

“No problem.” Xoe said, opening the door fully for Jason to allow entry, before throwing y/n a suggestive look and shutting the door.

Distracted by the array of plants both on the ground and overhead, Jason tread carefully through the path of the greenhouse. He raked his fingers through his hair as he stopped to observe the vine dangling from a hanging planter, avoiding touching it in fear that he would somehow kill the plant. Y/n gawped at his actions, amused by the conscientiousness of his every move in spite of his tall, muscular frame.

Jason, appearing diverted, used his peripherals to glance at y/n, who sat on a wooden chair on the other side of the greenhouse. Her attire was similar to their first encounter, except she rolled up the sleeves of her forest long-sleeved top, and wore patterned leather gardening gloves. He admired the contrast of her head to the overhead vines coming down around her, the hearty heart-shaped leaves forming a convex halo. She was breathtaking in her relaxed state, and it was clear to him that the greenhouse was a sanctuary, a treehouse she escaped to when she sought solace.

“Didn’t think you’d make it, Jason.” y/n held her notebook and pen in her hands as she spoke, still working at her scientific examination notes.

“Uh, yeah,” Jason mumbled, peering at a distant crimson flower in bloom. “I had to clean up after close. This is where you work?” He looked up at the opaque ceiling of the greenhouse, in awe of the varieties of plants with which he surrounded himself.

Y/n nodded. “Most of the time, yeah. It’s my job to basically make sure the plants are at an optimal growing point so that we could use the info to pass on to customers or vendors.”

Jason sensed the formality in her tone, humbling his ego before he returned, “And you like it?”

Y/n crossed her arms at the question, obviously peeved. “Of course. I don’t know why I would be here, or go through all the schooling, if I didn’t.”

Jason pressed his lips together, remorseful of the offense she took at his inquiry. “Sorry, I should have figured.”

“No, I…I get it all the time, honestly. People are so surprised when I tell them I like it, as if it’s some boring thing.” Y/n rambled, full of thought as she flipped through vague memories of conversations she had with others. “I’ve always loved nature, but not aesthetically, if that makes sense. It’s a science to keep these plants alive and thriving after all the damage we’ve done, and I don’t think I have to keep justifying it.” she clicked her tongue at the end of her statement, eyes looking off to the side in vexation.

Jason rubbed the back of his neck in discomfort. “I get the same comments about my baking. I mean, don’t get me wrong - it’s not nearly as lengthy as the schooling you went through - but I find happiness punching the fuck out of air bubbles in the dough.”

The joke emitted a chuckle from y/n, breaking the tension in the space that could have been otherwise excused by the high humidity. Humor was a strength of Jason’s, and he used it to his advantage in times like these when he found his foot in his mouth, or his tongue in a knot. He wanted to start over, rerun his words smoothly through his head so he could properly express himself without offending y/n again.

Instead, he offered baguettes. “I brought something we could both have in here, if we can have it.” he pointed to the backpack strap on his shoulder, and began to maneuver his backpack to his hands so he could unveil the crispy logs of cooked dough. He handed one baguette to y/n, who removed her gloves to accept the gift, before he took a bite out of one himself.

“You make these?” y/n asked, chewing on a piece. Mouth full of bread, Jason simply nodded. “I have to say, as much as I like plants, I think I would gain a lot of weight if I could bake this well.”

The compliment made Jason beam, squirreling chewed bread in his mouth causing his cheeks to round. After he swallowed, he responded, “Yeah, I get that a lot. Though I don’t think you’d look any bit different with more.” his eyes scanned y/n’s body evocatively.

Y/n’s cheeks tinted, covering her mouth respectfully as she spoke. “It’s really fresh for stale bread.” she gestured to an empty seat beside her. “You wanna sit here?”

Jason shook his head, plopping himself down on the seat before he turned his body to face her. “Oh, I made it before I left.” Jason remarked nonchalantly, taking another bite out of the bread.

Y/n stared at Jason as he ate his workmanship, giggling at him. He gave her a doe-eyed expression, confused by her mirth. “What?”

“Nothing, I’ve just never seen someone so passionate about eating bread.” Her eyes gleamed at him, smile radiant as she spoke. Jason’s chest burned when she passed him the look, mesmerized by her appearance. He grew accustomed to the constant comments about his looks from Gothamites - and the unfortunate harassment or assault that would take place by a select few - but he followed his instinct when he felt something different about y/n; whether it was the way she presented herself, or the way her eyes shaped into crescents as she smiled, he was absolutely enamored by her, and wanted to explore all that made her content so he could replicate it for her.

They sat together, knee to knee, gazing at each other. Y/n placed her bread on the table and her hands on her lap, drawing Jason’s attention away from her face. His eyes snapped up, though, unwilling to be perceived as perverted, or his intentions impure. Y/n suppressed her temptation to cave in to him, fingernails digging into the skin of her thighs as she desperately tried to keep them to herself.

But his skin was as firm as his voice, five o’clock shadow scattered across his cheeks and jawline; his skin creased as he grinned, even the slightest, a wrinkle forming along the edges of his mouth. Y/n wondered what his lips tasted like - were they as tender as they appeared? Or were his kisses all-encompassing, conveying what words couldn’t describe?

Y/n wanted to find out, but she hesitated: she didn’t want to hurt again; she didn’t want to wither at her roots like the neglected plants she studied, slumping over in her seat as she felt the remaining cells in her body seize. Had the encounter with Jason been years ago, y/n would have already been all over him, straddling his lap - she was much more daring then, naive of the darkness that could ensue.

Instead, she glued her hands to herself. Jason noticed her stare plummet from joyous to cold, her eyes glossy as she blinked away what dark thoughts laid behind them. He placed a hand over hers, thumb stroking the underside of her palm in an attempt to bring her back to the present.

“Sorry.” her voice sobered up, ignoring the display of affection Jason committed.

Shaking his head once, he responded, “Am I doing something wrong? I’ll scoot my chair back and keep my hand away if you want—”

“No, no.” y/n hastily said, unaware of what she presented with her response. “It’s not you, don’t worry.”

“Is it okay if I kiss you?”

The question caused y/n’s heart to rise, excited by the thought. She nodded and leaned forward, cupping his neck as they closed the gap between them and pressed their lips together softly, y/n’s nose filling with a mixture of the leather of his jacket and clean yeast from the bread. Jason instinctively brought his hands to y/n’s face, holding it as he sharply inhaled into the kiss. He was pleasantly surprised by the action, parting his lips as he wanted to deepen the kiss.

But y/n pulled away, and then turned her body from Jason, attempting to conceal the blush creeping up her neck.

Initially worried about crossing a boundary with y/n, Jason noticed the tint in her skin, and grinned, cupping her chin and turning her head to look at him. “You don’t need to hide from me, hun. I don’t know what you went through, but I won’t hurt you like that.” he assured y/n, tone warm and disarming. His thumb brushed her cheek, eyes distracted by her beauty.

“It’s y/n.” she informed him distractedly. “Sorry, I forgot to tell you.”

“Y/n.” he repeated, captivated by her eyes as she grinned softly at him. “I can make you a pinky promise that I won’t be a threat, but I’m not sure if a ten year-old’s logic resonates with you.”

It did. Y/n held her pinky out in between them. “I need something to ground me.”

Jason linked their pinkies, pulling them to his chest. “Y/n: I swear I won’t hurt you. Pinky promise.” y/n’s eyes searched for his other hand, which laid on his knee. No crossed fingers. Good.

“Can we go back to kissing please?” her brows furrowed, slightly embarrassed by her request. It was Jason’s turn to answer with a kiss, this time heated and impatient. His lips nibbled on hers before dragging a tongue along her bottom lip, evoking a moan from y/n. Jason’s hand held y/n’s as they deepened their kiss, mouths opening in an attempt for Jason to draw another moan from her. He used his free hand to tangle in y/n’s hair, pulling her closer than she already was.

When y/n mimicked his actions, she tugged lightly at his hair, causing him to groan and shiver. She tore her lips from Jason’s, noticing how his were already swollen despite the little contact she had with them. “You like that?” She quirked a brow.

“A little more than I should.” Jason smirked back, biting his bottom lip. He hissed when y/n tugged at his hair again, this time harder and deliberate. “Keep that up, doll, and I’ll have you bent over on this table.”

Y/n chuckled, allowing her id to take over. “Oh really? And what else would I have to do to be blessed with that opportunity?”

“I don’t think you want to know.” Jason pulled his bottom lip between his teeth, biting down hard. His eyes ran over y/n’s body slowly, taking in the view as y/n uncrossed her legs. He wondered if he should just take her here - an image of y/n in pleasure, her brows knitted and mouth agape, clouded Jason’s attention, blood rushing to his dick. It took a moment for him to notice that y/n’s hand was trembling in his hair, and when he did acknowledge it, the corrupt thoughts disappeared completely. “Are you okay?”

Y/n stopped herself, pulling her hand away from his hair and chewing on her lip. “Yeah, sorry. Dunno what got into me.” she laughed humorlessly.

“You know,” Jason started, hand rushing back to her cheek, “we could just go to my place and talk. We don’t need to do anything sexual, if you’re not up to that.”

The proposition nearly brought tears to y/n’s eyes. It was eons since someone considered her that much - she usually had to hold her ground herself. All she could release from her clogged throat was a faltered affirmation, and she rose to her feet, collecting her work and returning them to their designated area.

Extending an elbow for her to take, Jason guided them through the greenhouse and back outside, holding the door open for y/n as she strolled through. His eyes were glued to her, watching her reaction to all of the plant life around them; he was in awe of how much knowledge she had of them, informing him of pieces of trivia about random plants they passed.

When they reached his motorcycle parked in the lot, his shoulders slouched. “Sorry, I forgot to tell you that I ride.” Ride, y/n thought to herself, eyes examining the vehicle. “Do you still want me to take you, or do you want to take your car, or…”

Y/n wriggled her lips in apathy. “I take the bus, so I think this would be the more logical option.”

Without skipping a beat, Jason offered y/n his helmet, lifting a leg over the bike seat to straddle it and waiting for her to secure her helmet before seating behind him. She snaked her arms around his waist, locking her fingers together over his navel, the touch producing heat on Jason’s stomach. He looked back, waiting for a response from y/n; when she gave him a simple thumbs-up, he turned the key to the ignition and shifted into neutral, manually backing out of the parking space with his legs before taking off from the lot with a thunderous roll, the reverberation heard from miles away.

Although it was y/n’s first ride as a passenger on a motorcycle, she was tranquil, snug behind Jason with her fingers barely tracing what she assumed to be muscle lines along his abdomen; although it wasn’t Jason’s first time having a passenger on his bike, he was particularly cautious, downshifting early and even stalling his engine trying to do so.

Once they arrived at y/n’s apartment - with directions from y/n - Jason parked the bike on the street adjacent to the complex. He helped y/n off of her seat, and held her hand as she led them to her space on the second floor.

“And this is it.” y/n announced half-heartedly when she opened the door, entering into the kitchen of the grand apartment. Jason was silent as he inspected the decor, stopping occasionally at framed anatomical prints of plants. As he wandered into the living room, he spotted a wooden tube radio resting on the nightstand beside the couch. He observed its specifications, murmuring incoherently as he studied the device.

“You like it?” Y/n asked, handing Jason a can of sparkling water before she sat down on the leather couch.

Jason nodded. “I haven’t seen one of these in forever. Makes me feel kind of nostalgic, to be honest.”

Y/n tucked her legs under her knees, taking a sip from her can. “That’s why I bought it. M’not much of an audiophile, but I like the crisp sound of these. Plus, usually when guys are over, they think I’m some old lady, and eventually leave me alone.” Her final comment made her chuckle, and Jason grin.

“I guess we’re both old.” he added, winking back at her. Y/n patted the empty space beside her, offering him to sit. “Do you listen to a lot of music on here, or just the AM talk shows?”

Y/n’s smile widened. “A bit of both. If I have the free time, I prefer podcasts or audiobooks, which I can project through there, but y’know.”

“But what?” Seated next to y/n, Jason nudged her playfully.

She shrugged. “I dunno. Kinda gets busy sometimes.” her response was sad, as if she had no control over the time she spent, but Jason understood that it was relatively normal for an adult.

He dropped his grin in response, acclimating to the shift in tone. “I’m like that too. Though I don’t remember a time when I didn’t have a lot to take care of.”

Y/n’s forehead creased in worry. “What do you mean?”

“Well,” Jason breathed deeply, contemplating whether or not he should elaborate. “I didn’t really have the parents of the year growing up, and once I was adopted, I still had a bunch of responsibilities. When I think back to it, it feels like I missed out on a lot.”

Y/n nodded in agreement. “I get that. I…something happened, and I basically had to grow up quicker than some other people my age. I can’t really…” her voice trailed off, drowning in emotion. “It’s hard for me to feel normal.”

Hands beginning to tremble, y/n balled them into fists. Jason placed his hands over hers, squeezing them lightly to draw attention away from her thoughts. “Hey, I’m here. It’s okay.” he uttered, lavender softness in his voice. “Is it okay if I held you?” he asked, to which y/n nodded. Jason wrapped his long arms around her, pulling her tight to his chest. There, y/n felt guarded, safe, as if his arms were hardy tree branches that couldn’t be easily torn; she detached his heartbeat, steady but firm. Each of his features soothed her, rocked her back to the present, as he’d hoped.

He kissed her head, watering her otherwise malnourished body; Jason’s face focused on her, a tall, broad sunflower in need of nutrients facing the sun. She replenished him somehow, something neither of them could quite pinpoint, but enjoyed nonetheless.

Fingertips following the veins along Jason’s arm, y/n discerned a wanting similar to what she experienced at the greenhouse. She looked up at Jason, who was already gazing down at her, and gave him a look: please kiss me.

And for all that he could, Jason enthusiastically obliged, dipping his head to crash his lips to y/n’s. They both breathed into the kiss, hands fumbling to secure themselves in their embrace as their kiss rushed, tongues meeting briefly before disappearing again. Jason was the first to moan into the kiss this time, almost a whimper of desolate desire.

Y/n’s fingers spread, palms flat against Jason’s chest as she pushed him down onto the couch, readjusting to straddle his lap without breaking the kiss. His hands slipped underneath y/n’s top, nails grazing against her skin. He pushed the top up to her chest, breaking the kiss to allow her to pull it overhead and toss it aside.

Before returning to the kiss, Jason gawked at y/n’s chest, surprised by her bare breasts. “Holy shit.” he whined, licking his lips. He tilted forward to flick his tongue on her sensitive nub before kneading her breasts with his hands, occasionally leaning in to suck and lick her nipples. Y/n relaxed her shoulders and let out a soft moan and grind her hips against his, causing Jason to buck his up instinctively.

Their movements were restricted by their clothing though, and y/n knew that as she hopped off Jason to shimmy her pants off, panties down with it, and shook Jason’s jeans off as well before returning back to her stance on him. “Condom?” she murmured nervously.

Jason pointed to his jeans. “Here, lemme put em on.” he reached over to his pockets, pulling one out and tearing open the wrapper. Y/n watched, eyes dark with wanton, as he rolled the condom onto his thick, hard erection.

Y/n repositioned herself on his lap, lowering herself on him. She hissed at the contact, unfamiliar with the girth stretching her walls. When her hips were flush with his, y/n remained still, acclimating to the sensation; Jason, however, tremored underneath y/n, using all of his strength to restrain himself from thrusting up into y/n. He craved the noises she emitted, and anything that would drive her to ecstasy, but had to wait. His hands moved to her thighs, grasping at them and awaiting her signal for him to move.

Instead, y/n’s hips rose and fell, rocking slowly. They both moaned at the motion, unsatisfied by the gradualness of her hips. One of Jason’s hands moved to her ass, guiding her hips to angle itself perfectly.

“Oh, god.” Y/n gasped, the different angle granting Jason’s cock to brush against the base of her cervix. Jason’s grip on her thigh and ass tightened, letting out a guttural moan.

“Can I…?” Jason asked between pants, self-control wavering. Y/n nodded feverishly, barely containing herself as she steadied herself on Jason’s chest. He began thrusting up into her in the same angle, both hands gripping her hips as his pace quickened.

“Fuck, you’re so good.” Jason whimpered, eyes laser-focused on y/n. The sounds of skin-on-skin slapping, along with pants and intermittent, pornographic moans, escaped them and into the room. Jason wanted more, more, more as he continued to pistol his hips up, quickly popping a thumb into his mouth to moisten it before rubbing it on y/n’s clit in hasty yet intricate circles.

The motion evoked y/n’s orgasm, her core hot as she let out a silent scream. Her nails dug into the fabric of Jason’s shirt, sharp enough to leave marks on his bare chest, as he guided her through her high. Before she could calm down though, Jason picked up his pace, this time chasing his own high as he relentlessly thrusted up into her pussy. In moments, y/n was thrown into another orgasm, body tingling as she whined loudly into the air.

Her walls, like velvety petals, tightened around Jason’s cock, which was already begging for release. Every moan and word barely leaving her lips was as gospel to him, bringing him closer, higher, until-

“Y/n, I’m gonna come, fuck.” Jason sobbed, neck red and forehead covered in beads of sweat. His hair stuck to his head, stray strands bouncing with his thrusts as they grew sloppy, desperate, frantic for him. “Y/n, y/n,” he repeated as hell broke loose, his vision blurring as he sharply thrusted up into y/n, coming with a loud cry. His hips stuttered, grip on her hips loosening.

Y/n rode the high with him, watching as his brows furrowed, eyes fluttered shut, and swollen pink lips form into an ‘o’ shape. Each profanity that left his lips were a secret he could no longer hold, and she was so happy to indulge in them.

Minutes passed before Jason picked y/n up, laying her on the couch as he stood up. “Do you know where the bathroom is?” he asked innocently, cheeks azalea. After y/n pointed to the nearest ajar door in the hall, Jason disappeared for a moment before returning, towel in hand and condom disposed of.

He kneeled beside the couch, gingerly patting the towel on y/n’s thighs, cleaning up any residual juices that were released. The sight of her wet pussy made his cock twitch again, but he knew better than to entertain the thought, gently wiping away the wetness on the crevices along her ass and thighs. Y/n glanced down at him, heart warm as he finished cleaning up. “Is there anything I can get you, hun?” Jason smiled, eyes glistening. If her legs weren’t tired, y/n would have sat up and smooched him right there.

But she shook her head. “I think I’m okay. Thank you.”

Jason took her hand in his, holding it up to his lips before he placed a tender kiss to her knuckle. “Of course, Princess. You’re a flower, too, y’know.”

The compliment made y/n blush, skin rising with goosebumps. She hadn’t been pampered like this…ever. It was foreign, and the realization triggered a sympathetic nervous response.

Y/n sat up in worry, drawing her hand quickly from Jason. He frowned at her, apprehensive that he caused any offense. “I’m sorry - do you need some space? I can get going, if you need to.”

First waiting for a response, Jason noticed y/n’s eyes darting from side to side, spiraling into the dark trench. He scooted closer, pulling y/n’s head to his, their foreheads pressed together. “Deep breath, doll.” he cooed, “I’ve got you.”

And he did. His hands held y/n’s delicately, thumb brushing her skin as they breathed together in the apartment, his voice shining light onto her focus like a spring sunrise after a seemingly interminable winter.

The words pollinated her soul, bringing her to life in ways she hadn’t felt before. Jason’s skin was calloused, wrinkled, with scarring near the knuckle and palms, but y/n felt comforted by them. And she emerged from the dark trench, opening her eyes to find the sunflower staring back at her with a soft expression and a softer grin to welcome her.

And y/n finally felt like she found home.

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apatosaurus · 5 months

Text

Garden report 5/13/24:

The dill (pictured) and wildflowers outside the fence are starting to sprout. The dill is in that same bed with the (probable) catnip, on the opposite end.

In the center 4x8!raised bed, the bean plants are delicious to something (insects or slugs or both) and several sprouts have been nibbled to death before really getting going. There is a row of beets that I thinned. Today I put in some marigolds to try to deter pests and planted some edamame in case a different bean would be more resistant. I also bought some tomatillo plants for this bed and put them in today, and planted a few more “Mexican sour gherkin” (cucamelon) seeds. The third picture is a close up of the cucamelon plants I started indoors that survived. Three pea plants survived my attempt at a cover crop.

The front 4x8 bed inside the fence is mainly for full size cucumbers this year. One surviving seedling from indoors is hiding among the lettuce at the far side of the photo. I planted some additional seeds of the same variety around the trellis on that side. On the near end, I bought some cucumber plants at the nursery and planted a few more seeds. In the middle of that bed are a few chard plants (they didn’t all come up) and a row of beets that I thinned today.

There are radishes here and there in both 4x8 beds, but I harvested most of them to make room.

Not pictured are the strawberry patch, which is quite lush with leaves, and the little containers in the paths that I haven’t cleaned up yet. Oh, and I didn’t get pictures of the tomato plants or the sweet bell pepper plants in EarthBox containers toward the back of the garden.

If my future self is looking back to see what to expect in mid-May, it’s a slow start in some ways, but definitely getting there.

#clueless gardening #gardening #garden #garden report

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cricketnationrise · 2 years

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Fragment Friday (actually on a friday!)

So @indomitable-love tagged me last week and I was insanely busy and then @cha-melodius tagged me this week and I am less busy so here we go! The first three are from active wips, and the last two are eventually going to get worked on, so get pumped to see some of these relatively soon!

i'm tagging @weneedtotalkaboutfic @parvuls @the-lincyclopedia @clottedcreamfudge and @everwitch-magiks because i'm nosy 💜

RWRB Mummy AU:

“Face it old bean, if we don’t find someone in the next ten minutes, I’m going back to the hotel. There was an angel masquerading as a bartender and I’ll be damned if I miss my shot because you were skulking around looking for a guide to Hamunaptra.”

“Would you keep your voice down? We don’t need everyone in the nearest square kilometer to know what we’re up to.”

“Absolutely not. My voice is the perfect volume for every situation!” Pez booms, ignoring the dirty looks of the market vendors he had drowned out.

“I’m deadly serious, Percy,”

“—oooh, full name—”

“—we need to find a guide to the City of the Dead, today, or this whole expedition—”

“You’re looking for the City of the Dead? Why on earth would you want a guide to a fucking myth?”

2. OMGCP March/April snowed in prompt:

She reads the email canceling classes and makes the decision to ignore her inbox for the day, and goes back to sleep for another hour.

Well, she tries to.

“APRIL WE HAVE A SNOW DAY APRIL SNOW DAY!” March’s yells are loud enough to wake the dead, not to mention the rest of the volleyball house. Giving up on the extra sleep, April heaves herself out of bed and yanks the door open.

“Oh good you’re up!” chirps March. “Get dressed, I have a whole plan for us today.”

“It couldn’t have waited an hour?”

March just grins. “Absolutely not, I’ve been planning this since the season ended.”

3. RWRB sentient brownstone AU:

It’s a very odd sensation, having half of It’s occupants not present half the time. Sometimes it’s like part of The Brownstone is missing – original flooring pulled up during a renovation. Sometimes it’s like part of It is numb – a nursery closed up before witnessing new life.

When Alex is here, The Brownstone feels like It’s foundations have just been poured, like the bricks just got repointed, like a fresh coat of paint in every room. Henry and Alex fill It’s rooms with laughter and kisses and piano music and Mexican aromas and sex and comfortable bickering and celebrations and comfort and books and just – love.

But inevitably, Alex has to leave and It and Henry are left alone again. When Alex is gone, The Brownstone feels every one of It’s one hundred and fifty-two years pressing down. His absence feels like warped floorboards, like crumbling grout, like peeling wallpaper.

4. Tortall/Emelan Kel/Daja Tattoo AU:

As she pushed open the door, Kel was greeted by a welcome rush of cool air and soft tones from a wind chime just inside the door frame. The lobby was vastly different from what she had expected from a tattoo parlor. It had honey-colored wood floors, seating covered with cozy looking blankets, a huge tapestry of a thunderstorm behind the counter, and plants on every available surface. The counter itself was a piece of art: at least two different kinds of metal that had been painstakingly worked and twisted to look like the roots of a giant tree, and a dark walnut wood top, polish gleaming under the lights. In any other space it would dominate the room, but somehow everything seemed in harmony. Kel instantly felt at home, lingering nerves about getting a tattoo leaving her as she moved further into the space.

“Hi there! Welcome to Winding Circle Tattoos, how can I help you?” asked the blonde girl behind the counter.

“I’ve got a consult with Daja Kisubo? I’m Keladry Mindelan.”

5. OMGCP offseason 🍑 🍆 series zimbits (Explicit):

“Crisse, Bits,” Jack pants, “I think I’m dead now.”

Bitty giggles helplessly and hides his face in the crook of Jack’s neck. “That would be a shame, sweetheart, we haven’t even started on your wish list yet.”

Jack groans and Bitty can feel Jack’s dick twitch in interest, still inside him. “If I hadn’t just come, that would have done it.”

Bitty snickers and carefully lifts himself off Jack’s cock, cringing a bit at the empty feeling. He grabs a few wipes from the nightstand and starts cleaning both of them up. He knows he’s the one who brought it up, but Bitty’s definitely going to need something to do with his hands to get through this conversation.

“Lord knows you gave me that list and I sort of just pounced on you once I got to the end, but we should probably have a real conversation about it.”

“And you picked now?” Jack asks, incredulous.

“Well, I guess we can at least shower and get dressed before gettin’ into the gritty details of the highly kinky off-season sex you want to have.”

“That’s the least you can do.”

#cricket writes #fragment friday #rwrb mummy au #march/april snowed in prompt #sentient brownstone au #rwrb #omgcp #tortall #emelan #kel/daja tattoo au #jack's offseason wishlist fic #the wishlist is SPICY

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the-darkest-of-lights · 2 years

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My indoor plant nursery is doing better now that I added a grow light. :) And the new addition of a rock covered in moss. It was super cute and I had to add it to my garden. The nursery has an autumn mandrake and mandragora officinarum, a few spider plants, wondering dude, Mexican dream herb, black nightshade. #indoorplants #indoorplant #indoorplantsdecor #indoorplantsofinstagram #spiderplant #spiderplants #wonderingjew #mandrake #mandrakeroot #mandragoras #mandragoraofficinarum #mandragoraautumnalis #deadlynightshade #mexicandreamherb (at Citrus Heights, California) https://www.instagram.com/p/CoN7YJfv-8O/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#indoorplants #indoorplant #indoorplantsdecor #indoorplantsofinstagram #spiderplant #spiderplants #wonderingjew #mandrake #mandrakeroot #mandragoras #mandragoraofficinarum #mandragoraautumnalis #deadlynightshade #mexicandreamherb

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gssoftwareposts · 14 days

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Garden Protection and Pest Control How to Safeguard Your Lawn

One of the biggest hurdles homeowners face is dealing with pests that can damage or even destroy plants, lawns, and flowers. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, pest control is crucial to maintaining a healthy and thriving garden. But instead of resorting to harsh chemicals, there are various natural and practical methods to keep your outdoor space pest-free.

In this guide, we’ll cover several essential methods for protecting your garden and lawn from pests, offering solutions that are both effective and safe for your plants, pets, and family.

1. Start with Prevention: Healthy Plants Resist Pests

The first and most effective way to protect your garden from pests is to start with healthy plants. A robust and well-nourished plant is less likely to suffer from pest damage. Here’s how you can ensure the health of your garden:

Choose Disease-Resistant Plants: Some plant varieties are naturally resistant to pests and diseases. When selecting plants for your garden, look for varieties that are known for their resilience.

Proper Spacing: Overcrowding plants can create a humid environment where pests thrive. Make sure to space plants properly, allowing air to circulate freely. Rupsha Nursery

This reduces the chances of fungal infections and pest infestations.

Watering Properly: Watering your plants at the right time and with the right amount of water is essential. Overwatering can lead to waterlogged roots and attract pests like mosquitoes. Water early in the morning to allow the leaves to dry throughout the day, minimizing the risk of fungal diseases.

2. Monitor Your Garden Regularly

Regular garden monitoring is critical in detecting and dealing with pests early before they become a bigger issue. A few minutes each week spent examining your garden can save you time and effort in the long run.

Inspect Leaves and Stems: Check the undersides of leaves and along stems where pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies tend to hide. If you notice any signs of pest activity, take action immediately.

Look for Damage: Yellowing leaves, chewed edges, and wilting plants can all be signs of pest infestation. Identifying these symptoms early allows you to tackle the problem before it spreads.

Use Traps: You can place sticky traps around the garden to monitor flying insects like whiteflies and fungus gnats. These traps will help you understand what pests are present and how severe the problem is.

3. Use Natural Pest Repellents

Instead of using harsh chemicals, many gardeners opt for natural pest repellents that are safer for the environment, pets, and children. Here are some effective natural solutions:

Essential Oils: Essential oils like peppermint, rosemary, and eucalyptus are great for repelling pests such as aphids, ants, and mosquitoes. You can mix a few drops of essential oil with water and spray it on plants to keep pests at bay.

Neem Oil: Neem oil is a widely used organic insecticide. It works by interfering with the life cycle of pests, preventing them from feeding and reproducing. You can spray it directly on affected plants without harming beneficial insects like bees and ladybugs.

Garlic Spray: Garlic is a natural insect repellent. Crush a few cloves of garlic, mix it with water, and let it sit overnight. Strain the mixture and spray it around your garden to ward off pests like aphids and caterpillars.Rupsha Nursery

4. Encourage Beneficial Insects

Not all insects are harmful to your garden. Some insects can help control pest populations by feeding on them. Beneficial insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps are your allies in the fight against pests.

Ladybugs: These colourful insects are great at controlling aphids and other small pests. You can purchase ladybugs online and release them into your garden to naturally reduce pest populations.

Praying Mantises: Rupsha Nursery, Praying mantises are predatory insects that consume a wide range of pests, including beetles, crickets, and grasshoppers. Encourage them to stay in your garden by providing a habitat with tall grasses and shrubs.

Plant Flowers That Attract Beneficial Insects: Flowers like marigolds, daisies, and fennel attract beneficial insects to your garden. By incorporating these plants, you create a natural defence system against pests.

5. Use Companion Planting to Ward Off Pests

Companion planting is an ancient gardening technique that involves planting certain types of plants together to enhance growth and naturally repel pests. Some plants release chemicals or scents that deter pests, while others attract beneficial insects.

Marigolds: These bright flowers are excellent at repelling nematodes, aphids, and whiteflies. Plant marigolds around the perimeter of your garden to create a protective barrier.

Basil: Basil repels mosquitoes, flies, and aphids. Plant basil near your tomatoes and peppers to improve their flavour and protect them from pests.

Lavender: Known for its pleasant aroma, lavender is a natural mosquito and moth repellent. It also attracts beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, which help with pollination.

Chives: Chives are useful for repelling Japanese beetles and carrot flies. Plant them alongside roses or carrots for added protection.

6. Mulching for Garden Health and Pest Control

Mulching your garden not only helps conserve moisture and suppress weeds but also acts as a barrier against pests. Certain types of mulch can deter pests by creating an unfavourable environment.

Organic Mulch: Mulch made from straw, leaves, or compost provides nutrients to the soil and prevents pests like snails and slugs from reaching your plants.

Cedar Mulch: Cedar contains natural oils that repel insects like termites, ants, and cockroaches. By using cedar mulch in your garden beds, you create a pest-deterring environment.

Diatomaceous Earth: Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from fossilized aquatic organisms. When spread around your plants, it acts as a physical barrier, cutting through the exoskeletons of insects like ants, slugs, and beetles, causing them to dehydrate and die.

7. Practice Smart Watering Techniques

Watering your garden correctly can go a long way in preventing pests and diseases. Many pests thrive in overly moist environments, so it’s important to strike the right balance.

Water in the Morning: Watering early in the day allows excess moisture to evaporate before nightfall, reducing the chances of fungal infections and pest activity.

Avoid Watering the Foliage: Focus on watering the soil rather than the leaves. Wet leaves can attract pests like snails, slugs, and fungal pathogens.

Install Drip Irrigation: Drip irrigation systems deliver water directly to the root zone of plants, keeping the foliage dry and reducing the likelihood of pest problems. It also conserves water, making it an eco-friendly choice.

8. Handpick Larger Pests

Some pests, like caterpillars, beetles, and snails, can be easily removed by hand. While it may seem tedious, handpicking these pests can be an effective and immediate solution to protect your plants.

Caterpillars: Look for caterpillars on the undersides of leaves and remove them manually.

Slugs and Snails: These pests are more active at night or during damp weather. You can handpick them off plants or set up beer traps to attract and drown them.

9. Protect Your Lawn from Pests

A healthy lawn is an important part of garden maintenance. Pests like grubs, chinchbugs, and armyworms can quickly damage your lawn if not controlled.

Aerate Your Lawn: Aerating your lawn improves soil drainage and discourages pests that prefer compact, wet soil.

Use Beneficial Nematodes: These microscopic organisms are natural predators of lawn pests like grubs. You can introduce nematodes to your lawn to control pest populations.

Mow Properly: Keep your lawn mowed to the correct height to prevent pests from finding shelter in overgrown grass. Taller grass can attract insects and rodents, so regular mowing is crucial.

Conclusion

Protecting your garden and lawn from pests is an ongoing process that requires careful planning and attention. By following the methods outlined above, you can maintain a healthy, pest-free garden without resorting to harmful chemicals.

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horsfields · 4 months

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Choysia ternata sundance

Evergreen with highly perfumed white flowers

Choisya ternata 'Sundance', commonly known as Mexican orange blossom, is an evergreen shrub prized for its vibrant golden-yellow foliage and fragrant white flowers.

- **Foliage**: Bright yellow to golden-yellow leaves that retain their color throughout the year.

- **Flowers**: Clusters of small, star-shaped white flowers that bloom in spring and sometimes again in autumn. They have a pleasant citrus scent.

- **Growth**: Typically grows to a height and spread of 1.5 to 2.5 meters.

- **Care**: Prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate partial to full sun. It's relatively low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established.

- **Uses**: Ideal for borders, hedges, or as a standalone specimen plant in gardens.

'Sundance' is valued for its striking color and fragrant flowers, making it a popular choice for brightening up garden spaces.

We are open seven days a week 10am - 4pm, including bank holiday Monday.

We are here to help with any gardening questions or advice, just ask!

Looking for some ideas of what to do in the garden in May?

Click on the link to listen

https://youtu.be/xezCfWpcl40

#pothousehamlet

#gadeningtips

#gardenexperts

#springgardening

Horsfields Nursery Tel:- 01226 790441

[email protected]

Horsfields Nursery

Pot House Hamlet

Silkstone

Barnsley

South Yorkshire

S75 4JU

Beautiful plants in a beautiful place

#pothousehamlet

#gadeningtips

#gardeingingideas

#horsfieldsnursery

#horsfields

#gardeingingideas

#gardenexperts

#gardeningexperts

#howtogarden

#horsfieldsnursery

#horsfields

#gardentips

#gardenideas

#gardenhints

#gardening

#garden

#whattodointhegardennow

#gardeninghints

#gardeningknowhow

#gardenguru

#summerflowering

#gardencentre

#gardencentrenearme

#plantpots

#kexsborough

#mapplewell

#allium

Keep in the loop about our special offers & receive helpful hints and tips on gardening.

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Stay fit. Stay healthy. Keep gardening!

www.horsfieldsnursery.co.uk

#choysia #Choysia ternata #choysia sundance

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northgatefloristscom · 7 months

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Blooming Beauty: Exploring the Vibrant World of Flowers in El Paso

Nestled in the heart of the Chihuahuan Desert, El Paso boasts a rich tapestry of natural beauty, where arid landscapes are punctuated by bursts of color and fragrance courtesy of its diverse array of flowers el paso texas. From desert blooms to exotic imports, the floral scene in El Paso is as vibrant and eclectic as the city itself, offering a feast for the senses and a source of inspiration for residents and visitors alike.

Despite its desert climate, El Paso is home to a surprising variety of native and adapted flowers that thrive in the region's unique conditions. Cacti, such as the vibrant blooms of the prickly pear and the delicate blossoms of the ocotillo, dot the landscape, adding splashes of color to the sun-drenched terrain. Native wildflowers, including the iconic bluebonnets and the fiery Indian paintbrush, carpet the desert floor during the spring months, transforming the arid landscape into a kaleidoscope of hues.

In addition to its native flora, El Paso also boasts a thriving horticultural scene, with a wide selection of exotic and cultivated flower delivery el paso from around the world. Local nurseries and botanical gardens offer a treasure trove of floral delights, from fragrant roses and elegant orchids to colorful dahlias and tropical blooms. Whether adorning garden beds, bouquets, or floral arrangements, these exotic flowers add a touch of elegance and sophistication to El Paso's urban landscape.

Moreover, flowers play a central role in El Paso's cultural and social fabric, with numerous festivals, events, and traditions celebrating the beauty and symbolism of floral blooms. The annual Sun City Fair, for example, features elaborate floral displays, flower shows, and garden competitions that showcase the talents of local gardeners and horticulturalists. Day of the Dead celebrations, rooted in Mexican tradition, often feature marigolds, known as "cempasúchil," which are believed to guide the spirits of the departed back to the earthly realm with their vibrant colors and fragrant aroma.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, flowers also hold significance in various cultural and religious traditions, serving as symbols of love, remembrance, and spirituality. Weddings, graduations, and other milestone events often incorporate flowers into their decor, with each bloom carrying its own meaning and significance. From the purity of white lilies to the passion of red roses, flowers convey emotions and sentiments in ways that words cannot, making them an integral part of life's most meaningful moments in el paso flower delivery and beyond.

Furthermore, flowers play a crucial role in supporting local ecosystems and biodiversity, providing food and habitat for pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. In El Paso, efforts to protect and preserve native plant species, including wildflowers and desert-adapted blooms, contribute to the conservation of local wildlife and the restoration of natural habitats. Community gardens, native plant societies, and conservation organizations work tirelessly to promote the importance of native flora and encourage sustainable gardening practices that benefit both people and the planet.

In conclusion, flowers el paso are more than just decorative accents—they are symbols of resilience, beauty, and cultural heritage that enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike. From the rugged beauty of desert blooms to the exotic allure of imported flowers, the floral landscape of El Paso reflects the city's diverse heritage and vibrant spirit. As El Pasoans continue to cultivate their love for flowers and nurture their connection to the natural world, the city's floral scene will continue to bloom and flourish for generations to come.

Source Url:- https://sites.google.com/view/northgatefloristscom77/home

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agents-of-behemoth · 1 year

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ms-nesbit · 1 year

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Sugar and Spice

(baker!jason todd x reader) teaser

Rating: 18+ (minors dni)

word count: TBD

warnings/notes: mention of trauma and abuse, Jason Todd isn't Red Hood, explicit content, smut

summary: jason is a baker with cake, and y/n a horticulturist with a chance to sow her wild oats.

“And would you like that for here or to go?”

“That fresh?!” one blurted.

Jason vaguely smiled behind him before attending to replacing the pan on its designated shelf. “Always.”

The final product will be out by May 1st! Stay tuned for more.

#jason todd x reader #jason todd x plus size reader #readers size is ambiguous #jason todd #red hood #dcu #baker!jason todd #my post #mine #fanfiction #dceu #robin

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plantfoundry · 2 years

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Fantastic selection of outdoor Mexican metal art from @ironworks_inc has arrived! These hand-forged pieces add instant color and happy fiesta vibes to any garden! 🪅 (at Plant Foundry Nursery & Store) https://www.instagram.com/p/CqLHM0Frjyq/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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urfaveautisticlesbian · 2 years

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Should I buy like. A 54 pack of duvalin bc I used to get it as a kid from one of the workers at an ex family member’s plant nursery, and the memory of her giving it to me reminded me how, in the midst of my white family, there was still other Mexican people who cared for me. I literally thought she was a family member until I found out she was an immigrant employed by someone in my family.

#I remember they even built her a guest house on the property and I got to tour it and it was really nice. like. they took care of her and #I miss her. I hope she’s doing well and I hope she’s now a citizen here in america bc I remember she had just come to America when I eas lit #little #anyways now when I eat duvalin I think of her and how she treated me like family even tho we didn’t know each other but we had the same ethn #ethnicity

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swordsmanbonsai · 2 years

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Potted up a little Mexican Heather this spring with some local moss. I find companion plants add quite a bit along side a displayed tree. Found this heather at a local nursery.

#bonsai #penzai #penjing #bonsaipenjing #scottrodell #scottmrodell #daoistswordsman

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viniciusleal2121 · 2 years

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Incense of the day... MARIGOLD.

Marigolds are herbaceous plants, some perennial, some annual, of the Asteraceae family, the blooms made up of many tiny florets. They are native to North and South America but are popular garden plants throughout the world. Some of the more popular cultivated varieties are Mexican Marigold Tagetes erecta and French Marigold Tagetes patula.

History and Folklore

The Latin name Tagetes comes from the name Tages, an Etruscan prophet of ancient fame who taught others about divination. The common name, marigold, is from Mary's Gold, though it was originally applied to calendula.

The marigold is an important flower in certain religious ceremonies in Nepal and is used to decorate Hindu temples in India. Marigold is considered the flower of the dead in Mexico where it is used to decorate ancestral altars for Day of the Dead celebrations. After the Spanish invasion, the Aztecs viewed the marigold flower as a symbol of the Spanish invasion and the massacre of their people and destruction of their way of life.

In the language of flowers, marigold means "pain and grief" or signifies a wish to comfort one who is grieving.

Growing Marigold

Marigold is easy to grow as an annual. There are some perennial varieties that grow well in tropical areas that can also be grown as as an annual in more temperate regions. Marigold can be grown from seed or young plants can be readily purchased at just about any nursery or the gardening section of your favorite big box store. It's not picky about soil though they prefer it to be well-drained. Marigolds need a good sunny spot to thrive. Plant your marigolds in the spring as soon as the soil is warm and the danger of frost is past. If you keep your marigolds happy, they will bloom from spring right through to fall.

The scent of marigold is said to repel some insects and animals and chemicals released by their roots are said to repel nematodes. Because of this, it is considered an excellent companion plant for just about any other plant. However, it should not be used with legumes.

Marigold provides food for some species of butterflies and their larvae.

Healing with Marigold

The essential oil of Tagetes minuta or stinking Roger, usually sold as Tagetes oil can be used as an insect repellent and to prevent and help heal fungal and bacterial infections of the skin. It can be added to bath water or a vaporizer to help sooth coughs or added to a wash to help speed the healing of wounds, especially those that are weeping and slow to heal. A tea can be used for intestinal worms.

Tagetes oil is also used for aromatherapy to relieve tension and promote clear thinking and emotional control.

Tagetes lucida is used to in a tea to treat abdominal cramps, and in a bath to treat rheumatism, but it is also rumored to be strongly psychoactive and should be used with care.

Culinary Uses of Marigold

Tegates minuta is used as a culinary herb in South America where it is called huacatay. Tegates lucida is known as pericón or Texas tarragon is also used as a culinary herb and is used to make an anise-flavored tea in Mexico.

The petals of Tegates erecta flowers can be used in salads and to create a bright yellow dye.

Magical and Spiritual Use of Marigold

Mexican marigold resonates with the energy of the sun

Tagetes lucida has a psychoactive action and has been smoked ceremonially in combination with Nicotiana rustica when peyote was eaten and it may be drunk as a tea to promote visions.

All types of marigolds can be used as offerings to the dead and as decoration for ancestor altars.

Marigold Lore and Magic

Marigold must be taken only when the moon is in the Sign of the Virgin... And the gatherer, who must be out of deadly sin, must say three Pater Nosters and three Aves. It will give the wearer a vision of anyone who has robbed him.

Marigolds are a sturdy annual and quite familiar. They have been domesticated into a variety of sizes, some with tiny flowers, and others large and magnificent. Most have a golden color, but may range from bright yellow to deep, dark hues. The flowers may be gathered when in full bloom and hung upside down in a warm and dry place until the petals are completely dry.

They were said to relieve hiccups and the effects of being struck by lightning. No wonder they were considered magical plants. The marigold has healing properties and is used as a natural antifungal, antiseptic, and antibacterial treatment. Add the fresh flowers to salad greens and eat to promote good health and strengthen the immune system.

Make a tea by steeping the flowers and drink to solve love problems. Pour a quart of the tea into your bathwater on a Sunday to increase your popularity and admiration among peers. The seeds are sacred to Apollo and, when eaten, bring visions.

The marigold flower is rife with a variety of symbolism. To start, these flowers are called “the flower of the sun” and are representative of passion, warmth and creativity. To others, this flower is a symbol of comfort and contentment with simplicity. As a gift, marigolds may be a great expression of either warm or fiercely passionate love, or a simple way of saying that you feel happy and comfortable with the recipient. These flowers are sometimes given in themed gift baskets, but they are most commonly used in vibrant bouquets.

There are a number of different flowers commonly known as the Marigold, and when it comes to lore and magic, it can be confusing.

Common marigold (Tagetes) - Originally from South America, has been used as a source of essential oil for the perfume, and as a flavourant and food coloring in the food and tobacco industries. Tagetes is not to be confused with the genus Calendula, which goes by "marigold" in some areas.

Pot marigold (Calendula) - Flowers were used in ancient Greek, Roman, Middle Eastern and Indian cultures as a medicinal herb as well as a dye for fabrics, foods and cosmetics.

Mexican marigold (Tagetes erecta) - Dried leaves are ground into a powder then used as a tarragon substitute for flavoring soups, sauces etc. A pleasant anise-flavored tea, popular in Latin America, is brewed using the dried leaves and flowering tops. The petals are used as a condiment.

Tree marigold (Tithonia diversifolia) - Having a characteristic bitter taste, they were used to induce a fever to help fight poisoning, although not used for direct medicinal purposes.

Desert marigold (Baileya multiradiata) -A genus of three species in the aster family. Baileya species are used as food plants by the larvae of some Lepidoptera species (butterflies).

Corn marigold (Glebionis segetum) - In Crete and Greece, the leaves and the tender shoots of a variety called neromantilida (νερομαντηλίδα) are eaten raw in salads or browned in hot olive oil by the locals.

French marigold (Tagetes patula) -Medicinally, many cultures use infusions from dried leaves or florets.The whole plant is harvested when in flower and distilled for its essential oil

Marsh marigold (Caltha palustris) - As is the case with many members of the family Ranunculaceae, all parts of the plant are poisonous and can be irritant. Skin rashes and dermatitis have been reported from excessive handling of the plant.

Much of the traditional herbal lore and older magical information about the Marigold, is actually referring to the Pot Marigold or Calendula. What follows is what I have found that I am sure relates to the Common Marigold (tagates).

Marigolds are used as Visionary Herbes, and are part of the lore of Mexico. In that country it is sometimes said that they have their origin in the blood of the native peoples slain by the invading Spaniards. Marigolds are found in recipes for love divination, and it is also said that they give off bright sparks of light during a thunderstorm.

The species Tagetes lucida, known as "pericón," is used to prepare a sweetish, anise flavored medicinal tea in Mexico, brewed using the dried leaves and flowering tops. It is also used as a culinary herb in many warm climates. Dried leaves are ground into a powder then used as a tarragon substitute for flavoring soups, sauces etc. and offered in the nursery as "Texas tarragon" or "Mexican mint marigold."

The petals are used as a condiment. A yellow dye can be obtained from the flowers. The dried plant is burnt as an incense and to repel insects.

The marigold was regarded as the flower of the dead in pre-Hispanic Mexico, parallel to the lily in Europe, and is still widely used in the Day of the Dead celebrations to decorate ofrendas, papier mache and ceramic statues, altars, and graves of family members. This is because their scent is thought to draw back the souls of the dead.

Tagetes lucida was used by the Aztecs in their ritual incense known as Yauhtli. Aztecs used Tagete lucida both as a medicine and in rituals where they blew a powder made from the flowers on the faces of victims before the sacrifice.The plants was linked to the rain's god Tlaloc. The plant is also used by the Huichol, mixed with a potent wild tobacco (Nicotiana rustica), for its claimed psychotropic and entheogenic effects.

Tagetes minuta, native to southern South America is a tall upright marigold plant with small flowers, and is used as a culinary herb in Peru, Ecuador, and parts of Chile and Bolivia, where it is called by the Incan term huacatay. Huacatay paste is used to make the popular potato dish called ocopa. Having both "green" and "yellow/orange" notes, the taste and odor of fresh Tagetes minuta is like a mixture of sweet basil, tarragon, mint and citrus. It is also used as a medicinal tea in some areas.

The marigold is very significant in Nepalese culture where marigold garlands are used almost in every household especially during the Tihar festival. It is always sold in the markets for daily worships and rituals.

The marigold is also widely cultivated in India and Thailand, particularly the species Tagates erecta, Tagates patula, and Tagates tenuifolia. Vast quantities of marigolds are used in garlands and decoration for weddings, festivals, and religious events.

In Ukraine, Tagetes erecta, Tagetes patula, and the signet marigold, Tagetes tenuifolia are regarded as one of the national symbols, and are often mentioned in songs, poems and tales.

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