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Shelly Patterson has been an avid gardener for over 30 years, so when she arrived on Anarchist in 2019, she found it humbling to recognize the new challenges of gardening on the mountain; and educational to learn more about the local vegetation and growing conditions.
“Bees often fly right past my gardens and head for the abundance of wildflowers growing here. I realized that I need to learn more about them and how to adapt my gardens accordingly.”
Shelly will introduce you to native edible plants (such as berries and leaves) that can be used in cooking, teas/tisanes, and share gardening tips. She hopes you will try gardening and learn from her experiences. She will write this series from her quiet mountain paradise.
Wendy Shah is gathering wonderful stories about growing, harvesting and canning the abundance of crops grown on the mountain.
Jun 29, 2026
by Shelley Patterson
Last year I wanted to write about the beautiful Indian Paintbrush that we have here on Anarchist Mountain. Somehow though, I missed the chance to photograph it before its brief season was over. This spring, however, I…
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Jun 29, 2026
by Shelley Patterson
Spring has arrived on Anarchist Mountain, bringing bursts of colour and life back to the hillsides. One of the most striking sights right now is the bright yellow Arrowleaf Balsamroot.
These sun-like flowers rise on sturdy stems…
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Jun 29, 2026
by Shelley Patterson
Spring on Anarchist Mountain doesn’t arrive all at once—it reveals itself in quiet, remarkable moments.
What I’ve learned in my short time here is that assumptions don’t hold much weight. Not about flora, not about fauna, and…
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Mar 5, 2026
by Shelley Patterson
Out walking here on Anarchist Mountain, as the snow recedes quickly but true spring growth still feels out of reach, I’ve been noticing low-lying clusters of burgundy, red, and lime-green glossy leaves exposed now on the damp…
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Feb 3, 2026
By Shelly Patterson
Living on Anarchist Mountain, we are surrounded by a diverse forest that changes with each season. One tree stands out this time of year because it appears lifeless. Scattered generously across the mountain, larch trees now look…
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