After a busy but enjoyable Mother’s Day Weekend at the nursery, I decided it was time to spend some quality time in the garden, not so much doing chores, simply being able to take the time and revel in the beauty that is just outside my door.
Somehow the idea of getting down on bended knee, or flat out on one’s stomach in order to find the perfect pose doesn’t seem nearly as painful when the results are this staggering!
This past winter wasn’t kind! Inadequate snowfall, combined with repetitious freeze and thaws left many of the more tender hearted members of my garden repertoire at risk. I removed the brittle skeleton of Hydrangea quercifolia ‘Sike’s Dwarf,’ having given it more than ample time to show signs of life! I’ve been enamored of the species, but have come to the conclusion that it just isn’t meant to reside here. On a plus note, it does leave a substantial hole that requires filling, sooner rather than later! The sumptuous double flowering Sanguinaria canadensis f. ‘Multiplex’ also failed to return – a most disappointing revelation that leaves no alternative but to replace or move on to Meconopsis! I think we both know what the answer is going to be!
I love the soft powdered blue blooms of Mertensia virginica, but wish that the plant would continue to bloom all season long. Why is it that the most beguiling hues of blue are also the most fleeting in the garden?
3 comments:
Wow, Erythronium Japonicum 'Falling Stars'!
Where did you find that?
OK, ok, you've converted me. I must go out and get myself and epimedium, or two. I have never had even one. At a recent plant sale I was tempted by an Arisaema sikokianum, but resisted. I have three types of Arisaema seed I am about to plant, so I thought that would suffice. Thanks for the inspiring shots.
Outstanding photos, Barry. I must say, (I know this will come as no surprise to you) I LoVE your pink- flowered Epimedium. Just gorgeous!
I don't know if you remember this but I purchased a dwarf Thalictrum a few years ago that has foliage similar to Epimedium. It is blooming right now and although the flowers are nice they can't hold a candle to the likes of your pink Epi.
And it is a mystery why blue flowers are so dang ephemeral, isn't it?
Looks like you've got a new Japanese maple.
So sorry your lost your hydrangea. You need to win the lottery so you can have a greenhouse for all these tenderfoots. :)
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