flowers and vines in Lavaux - april 2016

variations of fresh, illuminating green...
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young leaves have less thick cell walls and are not full of photosynthetic pigments, so are much brighter green than mature ones

magnolia soulangeana

already spotted blooming lilac (syringa), probably in a secluded place with plenty of warm spring sunshine made the buds burst

young, glossy leaves of parthenocissus quincefolia

next to young vibrant green, abundant spring blossoms in variations of white and pink...

happy to see roses opening up their leaves....

but with new leaves, new 'pests' are returning as well
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hopefully ladybugs wake up as well soon and have a festive meal

borage officinalis (starflower)

hardy, annual herb that pops up also outside gardens as it is self seeding

edible, put young leaves in salads or cool drinks
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supposedly has several medicinal benefits of which 'brings cheer' is probably the most interesting...

our vineyard is ready for growing - the vines have been trained along the wires

warm sunshine has triggered the vines to open their buds
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'le débourrement' in french

'bourgeon dans le coton' (re: stades phénologiques repères de la vigne)

april can bring unexpected warm days that make us feel summerly...
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but also unexpected cold days with snow, hale and magnificent skies...