Baki is going to day camp for a week and a half, so we have an early morning walk to the bus. It is a nice time to be out, because it is quiet in the East Village in the wee hours of the morning, and the air is still relatively cool. I have always loved being out in the city before things really get moving.
Yesterday, I happened to look over as we were waiting to cross the street and I saw this healthy, happy cucurbit, growing at the foot of a tree. It was such a lovely surprise. Who planted the seed and tended it so well, I wondered.
Coming to the city from the garden, it is easy to think that I would miss being surrounded by plants, but the truth is, I still am. On another short walk with my mom, we saw loads of beautiful plants, not to mention the stately trees that line the city blocks.
This is perhaps the opposite of the plucky cucurbit, but seriously, hats off to the person who tends these guys.
And these clematis growing by the garbage reminded me of the Chinese imagery of the lotus as a symbol of purity because although it grows in the mud it rises above the water and its flowers open. (My lotus back home is probably flowering right now.)
And that was in just 15 minutes of walking. Although I miss my garden, I meet lots of great urban plants every day I am here.
Garden Correspondent 
I’m very fond of that photo with the clematis growing by the garbage bins. Lovely.
I’m glad you like it. To tell the truth, I wondered if anyone would spot the flowers, since they’re quite small. You’ve put my mind at ease!
Quite refreshing!
It is nice to know that there are gardeners everywhere.
Great scenery,I am glas you are in New York.
Please say hello to Onke from me
Yasmine in Miami,
Thank you for your comment- it’s so nice to hear from you! My mom says hi and sends her love.
I too, live in a big city and it is so nice when people take the time to make their property a little urban oasis. Granted, it isn’t easy and many would wonder, “Why bother?” Well, you need look no further than the clematis to answer that question.
Living in an urban area, it is really nice to see plants and trees around.
Whoa! That’s right up the street from my apartment!
That’s First Avenue, right?