A close look in the garden reveals blooms and more

Despite the weather, plants are sprouting, buds are swelling and flowers are blooming. If you look close, there's already beauty in the garden.

I had fun in the garden looking for early plants. This is when we write down what's blooming or where we need blooms so we know for planting season.

'Pickwick' crocus is my favorite. It was released in 1939, the same year my house was built. Photos by Doug Oster

Bittercress is an edible weed. The tiny flowers are pretty.

Japanese pieris getting ready to bloom when the weather is right.

Helebores might be the queen of the spring garden. Look at the color.

Forsythia buds swell.

My pink pig watering can. See how it's a little dirty on his chinny chin chin.

Hydrangea bud, 'Nikko Blue.'

Old fashioned peonies push through the soil.