tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40797127672520031972024-03-05T19:23:13.137-06:00Visit My GardenWhen we moved to our new house the yard was virtually empty, except for a few mature trees. I have slowly replaced the expanse of empty lawn with gardens full of my favorite plants: old garden roses, peonies, clematis, iris, geraniums, lilies, and more. I need these gardens to be reasonably low-maintenance so I'm emphasizing long-lived perennials, flowering shrubs and evergreens. I'm also growing vegetables and some fruit - all organic.spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.comBlogger96125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-77205671735413064612016-05-23T14:14:00.000-05:002016-05-23T14:14:53.200-05:00Tree Peony 'Shan Hu Tai' in 2016'Shan Hu Tai' means "Coral Terrace" or "Coral Altar" in Chinese.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJywiNeEqlriyszH8S4ePOQUImjdowpRy9QIhkVg7I_C4PIMJ7ndF5zB126_QfG38MIxQvd_DaJiXCLWJF_LanKpLZEA30o7mgG_MB0Grr0srfYc45QYB1rSWyAHLk3_noSfwW-m7JiI/s1600/shanHuTai16h.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJywiNeEqlriyszH8S4ePOQUImjdowpRy9QIhkVg7I_C4PIMJ7ndF5zB126_QfG38MIxQvd_DaJiXCLWJF_LanKpLZEA30o7mgG_MB0Grr0srfYc45QYB1rSWyAHLk3_noSfwW-m7JiI/s400/shanHuTai16h.JPG" width="311" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Shan Hu Tai'</td></tr>
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You can see where the peony got its name when you look at the stunning color of the blooms. The petals are an indescribable purplish-coral-reddish-pink, with deep purple-black blotches at their centers and silvery pink fading along the ruffled outer tips. The color is so bright it fairly screams from across the garden, yet it has an airy lightness and does not appear harsh or glary. It's actually a very hard color to photograph - these pictures don't do it justice!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4pecmSHuGK44Bkaff2OxgkWKPe61x5cKoswypKgX0u2U7dTO-aAieu8z4dlPh78J8FtCNJt-BaB5ee4crTaPOI8EauZBmCf5nZxyUjZUn2OYvsojKai6mtTNOrxRifoJxK2ACGd7XX98/s1600/shanHuTai16f.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4pecmSHuGK44Bkaff2OxgkWKPe61x5cKoswypKgX0u2U7dTO-aAieu8z4dlPh78J8FtCNJt-BaB5ee4crTaPOI8EauZBmCf5nZxyUjZUn2OYvsojKai6mtTNOrxRifoJxK2ACGd7XX98/s400/shanHuTai16f.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Shan Hu Tai' - 6 year old plant</td></tr>
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The bush tends to have a low, flattened shape, thus the "Terrace/Altar" part of the name. It generally grows to only about 3 feet tall, but 4-5 feet wide (unlike most tree peonies which tend to be taller than wide). Despite its dwarf size, the plant grows vigorously, and is a very prolific bloomer. This is the fourth year for this specimen in my garden, and I purchased a two-year old division, so overall it is only a 6-year old. Just a baby - it will get much larger than this and have many more flowers in a few years!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6EeBPZrv2lxMaaEMhs7i0X4PI2fS6so_y22LAOJ7bdblNxAClR4Xqv0h4pOAcgdx7BhCcqJ6nCdHTA72cWQQs5ml-UyfN6G3ncBYGb4WsgWKpe4J9rJPxu1v1h4j0Hc0orO0GFGvBYQw/s1600/shanHuTai15f.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6EeBPZrv2lxMaaEMhs7i0X4PI2fS6so_y22LAOJ7bdblNxAClR4Xqv0h4pOAcgdx7BhCcqJ6nCdHTA72cWQQs5ml-UyfN6G3ncBYGb4WsgWKpe4J9rJPxu1v1h4j0Hc0orO0GFGvBYQw/s400/shanHuTai15f.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Shan Hu Tai'</td></tr>
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The blooms have a delicious spicy-sweet fragrance, exotic and almost cinnamony. It is currently the earliest of my tree peonies to bloom, generally coming in a few days to a week before the other Chinese tree peonies in early May. It also holds its blooms for an unusually long time.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Shan Hu Tai' - kingfisher headdress flower form</td></tr>
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The blooms are not overly large (I'd say about 6-7 inches), but very full and double - simply packed with silky salmon petals. The shape of the flowers varies from semi- to fully double, but especially on mature bushes, many of the flowers will have the highly-prized "Kingfisher Headdress" flower form. You can see an example of this in the picture above. Inside the main flower there is an additional "tuft" of taller petals that stick up at a jaunty angle, apparently resembling a fancy Chinese hair ornament.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheBgx1LjwHwATETeKWVGOqxBzrDkC5k4Hg9SpfsxyRuvtTXaaa7mgpW1utjXdusBDsgFHJWYyrscjcNbhYRMHdrvQP4GsyIMg80xkhz8WtZmKV38VCSwhqYiDpduV6aKHLjSYIQ3HZq64/s1600/shanHuTaiFoliage16.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheBgx1LjwHwATETeKWVGOqxBzrDkC5k4Hg9SpfsxyRuvtTXaaa7mgpW1utjXdusBDsgFHJWYyrscjcNbhYRMHdrvQP4GsyIMg80xkhz8WtZmKV38VCSwhqYiDpduV6aKHLjSYIQ3HZq64/s400/shanHuTaiFoliage16.JPG" width="377" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Shan Hu Tai' - red stems and leaf outlines in spring</td></tr>
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The foliage is a good mid-green, complementing the color of the blooms perfectly. In early spring, the plant has red stems and the leaves are attractively outlined with red as well, but this color usually fades by bloom-time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVaSc8XYf_hHe_sFTNT_Mg5A6FuaQeHtX__ziNir_LoCU7UJ0GQzHd5YSp_kqMxox2mXBFQcBv3LOVuH1mOaU-w1nrvo4Ls7eNsgjkAzwx_ykzzfhha0XnZwr1i9_xvJ9rR3sXRKWOSvk/s1600/shanHuTai16b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVaSc8XYf_hHe_sFTNT_Mg5A6FuaQeHtX__ziNir_LoCU7UJ0GQzHd5YSp_kqMxox2mXBFQcBv3LOVuH1mOaU-w1nrvo4Ls7eNsgjkAzwx_ykzzfhha0XnZwr1i9_xvJ9rR3sXRKWOSvk/s400/shanHuTai16b.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Shan Hu Tai'</td></tr>
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The bush has a naturally attractive shape, and the blooms have a nice presentation, nestling just slightly into the foliage at the top of the plant.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hIUTmSsArEKBxb4_pLYlfXK5eHkC5jaNF2KKODcRdIlbh8XTtlUAwGmqprJ6a61ZCxTR2TebQ85M64S3BZzYZGpeKVTrsYPa3CMwVnHfbKgGcdg6-P6_LqpXUWjz0TQ1XoalyDoj5Tk/s1600/shanHuTai16e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hIUTmSsArEKBxb4_pLYlfXK5eHkC5jaNF2KKODcRdIlbh8XTtlUAwGmqprJ6a61ZCxTR2TebQ85M64S3BZzYZGpeKVTrsYPa3CMwVnHfbKgGcdg6-P6_LqpXUWjz0TQ1XoalyDoj5Tk/s400/shanHuTai16e.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Shan Hu Tai'</td></tr>
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It would of course be impossible for me to pick just ONE favorite tree peony, but this one would certainly be a contender!spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-89990114674820939362015-04-03T11:17:00.000-05:002015-04-03T11:17:00.124-05:00The First GlimmeringsThe earth is slowly warming up, and we have the first glimmerings of spring moving in the garden. Here are some giant purple crocuses:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHy2anNJ7lVoX_1pGq_AhvNRtwt6rhl7W0I2yqt86CyLweD2s-90LEPITK7DgYjs4aIqttBdeKp_xejGsh_lYweolsmwO9b4phdHPP_b1gsDRx7sk-Q4lh-zxxBFb-gmikfqMHZ_FRJK4/s1600/crocusVernusFlowerRecord15c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHy2anNJ7lVoX_1pGq_AhvNRtwt6rhl7W0I2yqt86CyLweD2s-90LEPITK7DgYjs4aIqttBdeKp_xejGsh_lYweolsmwO9b4phdHPP_b1gsDRx7sk-Q4lh-zxxBFb-gmikfqMHZ_FRJK4/s1600/crocusVernusFlowerRecord15c.JPG" height="338" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Crocus vernus</i> 'Flower Record'</td></tr>
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The dark purple color makes a nice contrast with the evergreen foliage of this yellow Hinoki False Cypress which is growing across the way.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEmlaOWNmMf5oe1Lh8qVVdZ4DEK-mjHy4PfZkCq4VvmtbEOdTAO4JOug_NRf7Vba-KFScL5YvbAyw0yu1HKgmDJ31Brs_PrqV6zW2yFaHcU5bLAuqFJ1At8vEbYDrUsdE2fi_wtXjIf7Q/s1600/entryBorderMarch15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEmlaOWNmMf5oe1Lh8qVVdZ4DEK-mjHy4PfZkCq4VvmtbEOdTAO4JOug_NRf7Vba-KFScL5YvbAyw0yu1HKgmDJ31Brs_PrqV6zW2yFaHcU5bLAuqFJ1At8vEbYDrUsdE2fi_wtXjIf7Q/s1600/entryBorderMarch15.JPG" height="302" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Chamaecyparis pisifera aurea nana</i>, with <i>Crocus vernus</i> 'Flower Record'</td></tr>
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This yellow Crocus is also going strong now. I love the searing color of this one - it almost burns my eyes with its brightness after the bleakness of winter.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZrMEzcb_Qnlmw_bSh682MgfpY7LloAYhmEi4aSMH4siJVwsbVQwPXLbXVuu3ABa7K5PV2QjorOmXKVLjHH8BqwPengODF3fdi_nSQ9yn-YXhSYDXraHeM7I8MpJjj6VUpvJP4jQAM2FI/s1600/crocusVernusYellowMammoth15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZrMEzcb_Qnlmw_bSh682MgfpY7LloAYhmEi4aSMH4siJVwsbVQwPXLbXVuu3ABa7K5PV2QjorOmXKVLjHH8BqwPengODF3fdi_nSQ9yn-YXhSYDXraHeM7I8MpJjj6VUpvJP4jQAM2FI/s1600/crocusVernusYellowMammoth15.JPG" height="298" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Crocus vernus</i> 'Yellow Mammoth'</td></tr>
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The snowdrops are already fading now. Most have gone to seed, and only a few flowers remain:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWpQ3E6WS0l02gD7bQtE9KdZeeT5GQbx20DGsDamC2C9MOPnxR619hEUWOBkl0oNy1PFST6TNBu6F5Zyogg5RTptqv3l7Ln41qWOhqDcqWHOuIieIlCZoa2xKB1VERrYH8IMMPK3E9gpI/s1600/galanthusBergenia15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWpQ3E6WS0l02gD7bQtE9KdZeeT5GQbx20DGsDamC2C9MOPnxR619hEUWOBkl0oNy1PFST6TNBu6F5Zyogg5RTptqv3l7Ln41qWOhqDcqWHOuIieIlCZoa2xKB1VERrYH8IMMPK3E9gpI/s1600/galanthusBergenia15.JPG" height="400" width="372" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Galanthus elwesii</i> (Giant Snowdrop) with Bergenia</td></tr>
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And possibly my favorite of the early bulbs, these gorgeous clear blue Reticulated Irises:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXQMYlgLTZCp2QaZaRkwTv7XeMuLx6lf9CcmcxlNRbP4iA6wK4zVdhW6pEtrI0Nfgd5DBK2x8kjo4hJMoqXWeYyn3vT4KciC396gfbzoLYqADQ2-40dvdSAD5jwV75zc662Pk_zDxBZ6s/s1600/irisReticulataClairette15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXQMYlgLTZCp2QaZaRkwTv7XeMuLx6lf9CcmcxlNRbP4iA6wK4zVdhW6pEtrI0Nfgd5DBK2x8kjo4hJMoqXWeYyn3vT4KciC396gfbzoLYqADQ2-40dvdSAD5jwV75zc662Pk_zDxBZ6s/s1600/irisReticulataClairette15.JPG" height="342" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Iris reticulata</i> 'Clairette'</td></tr>
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A wide view of the Peony Bed. Little patches of iris and crocus are in bloom, and as you can see the tree peonies are already starting to leaf out!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrm0I9QnSx5hngj7VKe-LX3x7P9Tjh-8WwkU675kLZUT8y2lCAJqs_qgVc0TcQt2z3Yc-qH9KD4m5AcWgIQIH2NXgyVpPkn3WXwPvRYUDp4pJxEDqe63i278SKfUaJ0M0dBV68B2pHu9s/s1600/peonyBedApril15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrm0I9QnSx5hngj7VKe-LX3x7P9Tjh-8WwkU675kLZUT8y2lCAJqs_qgVc0TcQt2z3Yc-qH9KD4m5AcWgIQIH2NXgyVpPkn3WXwPvRYUDp4pJxEDqe63i278SKfUaJ0M0dBV68B2pHu9s/s1600/peonyBedApril15.JPG" height="435" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peony bed in early April</td></tr>
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<br />spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-73936561385430880962015-03-14T14:51:00.003-05:002015-03-14T14:51:56.830-05:00Wake up, Garden!Suddenly, it is spring!<br />
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One day the garden was covered in snow and ice. And the next - little growing things are peeping here and there! Surprises around every corner. I went out the other day to spread out the last remaining snowmounds, and here is what I found:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ZWYXbbkt70ND4Zardt-aFlfVcS_QtZY1cAlYES-TsfdV7VgOX-pxOrwbLLq7sAJPul0Xt_wmOVnbgZc1LY36ZT78e-2Yfszq2PFT3iXgI3kPQl1531W2gB2zIk6fNhoK_s3g-0kjwXY/s1600/eranthisHyemalisMarch15a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ZWYXbbkt70ND4Zardt-aFlfVcS_QtZY1cAlYES-TsfdV7VgOX-pxOrwbLLq7sAJPul0Xt_wmOVnbgZc1LY36ZT78e-2Yfszq2PFT3iXgI3kPQl1531W2gB2zIk6fNhoK_s3g-0kjwXY/s1600/eranthisHyemalisMarch15a.JPG" height="255" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Eranthis hyemalis</i> emerging from the near-frozen soil</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMmZLON_afqCySx68-_rUD_ON_hHBv2kbwpeNcoYheQMSi-B5X49EGcz1I73_3EcV5POxGtLUJeJ1RJ3-ElZKjWLc9RzUv4h2m0MLVe8jgX2fRjFfwerx2cE6KaZ1eIHsQI3seADfc5Ww/s1600/galanthusElwesii15a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMmZLON_afqCySx68-_rUD_ON_hHBv2kbwpeNcoYheQMSi-B5X49EGcz1I73_3EcV5POxGtLUJeJ1RJ3-ElZKjWLc9RzUv4h2m0MLVe8jgX2fRjFfwerx2cE6KaZ1eIHsQI3seADfc5Ww/s1600/galanthusElwesii15a.JPG" height="320" width="295" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Galanthus elwesii </i>unfurling among patches of snow</td></tr>
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Meanwhile, the rose garden was still covered in snow:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsblxzUTXpcntZsyqA6dKFCoG5N4tVBUZu1B6ffw0QxvhuAMcd89-VoKQJ5fPcLU8asy6x1f_c4QDxqQylDIri6DM58L3EsPciBuyuxRpB7hduziNO0RW6gRHxPx4vfN09Ukp4JX1pVM/s1600/roseGardenMarch15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsblxzUTXpcntZsyqA6dKFCoG5N4tVBUZu1B6ffw0QxvhuAMcd89-VoKQJ5fPcLU8asy6x1f_c4QDxqQylDIri6DM58L3EsPciBuyuxRpB7hduziNO0RW6gRHxPx4vfN09Ukp4JX1pVM/s1600/roseGardenMarch15.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose garden in late winter</td></tr>
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Just a few days later, the snow is all gone, though the ground is still frozen solid in spots. The snowdrops and Aconites are in their prime, however, and the daffodils and even some tulips have already started to push through the soil in warmer spots:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-RM5A1LMr61xa2AqGgLHhnhc35LbYqmgNyZcwUYO0ITmo6rwHhBQtYC2ZSAzQcfSGjUVF3Cd6yQ2gIdP2gjpJQfQRAKwe9GsJdtzmzEpKFmsSI_RI4jAdnAbZB6e8crmoZjD4FJGGucw/s1600/eranthisHyemalisMarch15b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-RM5A1LMr61xa2AqGgLHhnhc35LbYqmgNyZcwUYO0ITmo6rwHhBQtYC2ZSAzQcfSGjUVF3Cd6yQ2gIdP2gjpJQfQRAKwe9GsJdtzmzEpKFmsSI_RI4jAdnAbZB6e8crmoZjD4FJGGucw/s1600/eranthisHyemalisMarch15b.JPG" height="400" width="341" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Eranthis hyemalis</i> in mid-March</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgTWYeT-zJQTMa_J3Xw7jd_WmjFTxKU91UHlZ-JXu77G8_MtyBqYPZD4S8jcmotz8L-XzwJxTznlPpXpBxJ4VA3mZxNJVm8CKOVwIaUaWGOf3hPdUnHg7lXV0UERSBUePcLQ0BCK7d6U8/s1600/galanthusElwesii15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgTWYeT-zJQTMa_J3Xw7jd_WmjFTxKU91UHlZ-JXu77G8_MtyBqYPZD4S8jcmotz8L-XzwJxTznlPpXpBxJ4VA3mZxNJVm8CKOVwIaUaWGOf3hPdUnHg7lXV0UERSBUePcLQ0BCK7d6U8/s1600/galanthusElwesii15.JPG" height="277" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Galanthus elwesii</i> (Giant snowdrops) in mid-March</td></tr>
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These little bulbs are tiny, few, and not likely to stop traffic. But oh how we cherish these first flowers of spring!<br />
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In a warm zone by the house, even these giant crocus have already started blooming. They really should not be the first crocuses to bloom - my little species crocuses should pop first - but these have a head start due to their warm sunny location.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOxGjOKjJzWWnldyhHVT3mHYTjnYBgxyLDQyzNuY2ZGFur71K622cGkr9rW79JeWHtMmpd0dDpATZELf9DLbFyPLvbbJI3TaAZOaoIO7WY9qqd639680Zq4aAuj_8vL4Ll6Mjor0_9bRk/s1600/crocusVernusFlowerRecord15b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOxGjOKjJzWWnldyhHVT3mHYTjnYBgxyLDQyzNuY2ZGFur71K622cGkr9rW79JeWHtMmpd0dDpATZELf9DLbFyPLvbbJI3TaAZOaoIO7WY9qqd639680Zq4aAuj_8vL4Ll6Mjor0_9bRk/s1600/crocusVernusFlowerRecord15b.JPG" height="400" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Crocus vernus</i> 'Flower Record in mid-March</td></tr>
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I've already started my spring clean-up chores - cutting back old foliage, trimming away dead wood, raking back leaf litter to expose and warm the soil. The warm fresh air reinvigorates the garden and the gardener.spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-55542962989690892802015-02-14T10:34:00.000-06:002015-02-14T10:34:04.312-06:00Rose Garden in AutumnI didn't specifically design this garden with Fall Color as the focus, but plenty crept in anyway.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ6Fj8RNGZTydkEy-0O5X66zLDDzq7LNQ1PD-8_wVffmrGIrwci_gltnnsDZusudqy64QxOfXgyoM11TOpFr6XIDBNXzy0PkZUvoBafYHjW9VNrV9TWQKM2V60l7VUActy-1w_BH3TvoM/s1600/roseGardenOct14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ6Fj8RNGZTydkEy-0O5X66zLDDzq7LNQ1PD-8_wVffmrGIrwci_gltnnsDZusudqy64QxOfXgyoM11TOpFr6XIDBNXzy0PkZUvoBafYHjW9VNrV9TWQKM2V60l7VUActy-1w_BH3TvoM/s1600/roseGardenOct14.JPG" height="444" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose Garden in Fall: <i>Cotinus coggygria</i> 'Purple Cloak', Lamb's Ears, <i>Euphorbia polychroma</i></td></tr>
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The dark purple leaves of the Smoke Bush (<i>Cotinus </i>'Velvet Cloak') gradually turn intense orange and red, and the nearby Cushion Spurge (<i>Euphorbia polychroma</i>) also colors up nicely. The Lamb's Ears are evergreen (or ever-silver) and continue to add color to the scene well past frost.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPOcvit0CGKXxkj5eUnFT3C932G7KMe-zrt1SZDKs1BfeFxDA_4R1oULc9tv-oAujhFJGMllbY0Y80adegbH04HgHYDaM1nV9p8OMNXfO8xx5cFW5hP_x_f4aHfmCgfwA9OZwVNWfmMPY/s1600/euphorbiaCotinusOct14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPOcvit0CGKXxkj5eUnFT3C932G7KMe-zrt1SZDKs1BfeFxDA_4R1oULc9tv-oAujhFJGMllbY0Y80adegbH04HgHYDaM1nV9p8OMNXfO8xx5cFW5hP_x_f4aHfmCgfwA9OZwVNWfmMPY/s1600/euphorbiaCotinusOct14.JPG" height="272" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Euphorbia polychroma</i> with Cotinus in October</td></tr>
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I love the muted peachy-coral colors of the Spurge in Fall - this is one of my favorite four-season perennials.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinU2MbDQsO1Fe8HQobx15G8ZoXZLmB-CwqmTuOGE88SIxWjkfxqTerVxGdejmbGUsT8vnfebpEah_KZqq5XqwJ-0vKxXiqDdj6xiCSgmEckAByButrOmItlKQJEHi_jvm0uoHqeujMPLw/s1600/cotinusVelvetCloakOct14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinU2MbDQsO1Fe8HQobx15G8ZoXZLmB-CwqmTuOGE88SIxWjkfxqTerVxGdejmbGUsT8vnfebpEah_KZqq5XqwJ-0vKxXiqDdj6xiCSgmEckAByButrOmItlKQJEHi_jvm0uoHqeujMPLw/s1600/cotinusVelvetCloakOct14.JPG" height="400" width="326" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Cotinus coggygria</i> 'Velvet Cloak' in October</td></tr>
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Cotinus foliage is colorful from Spring through Fall as well. I struggle to keep this fellow in bounds, as it wants to grow into a ginormous shrub/tree/monster. I cut it to the ground in spring, and still end up trimming it back several times a year. Highly worth it though for the color it provides.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGQIVWD3zSFUH22z47W45bWw35rP086XbRs16TWT5X14-hq6aMhd05_S5M5FPCFjFLE4EHRadTi6dxiXWSH5-n2CtPi71K_Jg7PNvxxFd8Q2WuPlAMZl0Qbh43xAIeSw1m6MpIAX5vAuo/s1600/sedumAnemoneOct14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGQIVWD3zSFUH22z47W45bWw35rP086XbRs16TWT5X14-hq6aMhd05_S5M5FPCFjFLE4EHRadTi6dxiXWSH5-n2CtPi71K_Jg7PNvxxFd8Q2WuPlAMZl0Qbh43xAIeSw1m6MpIAX5vAuo/s1600/sedumAnemoneOct14.JPG" height="400" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anemone 'Alice', Sedum 'Autumn Fire', and Austin Rose 'Sophy's Rose' in October</td></tr>
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There are Fall flowers here too - double-flowered pink Japanese Anemone 'Alice' is a fall-bloomer, and it tumbles through the brick red florets of Sedum 'Autumn Fire'. In the background, reddish-pink 'Sophy's Rose' has a second flush of bloom in Fall.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5NFfLBbRdrU1eFyxPzEKwUr1fhvZgn2UyATMWWCC1vCpbRKypTa0_IeZMTjzAncQRJXULilubBtbcQHGlmBaiMiTj0UhUR2xFaqvKfos9LRzZYrFMOio1lyrbVO7rpMCsZii2XCKs7UM/s1600/sedumAnemoneOct14b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5NFfLBbRdrU1eFyxPzEKwUr1fhvZgn2UyATMWWCC1vCpbRKypTa0_IeZMTjzAncQRJXULilubBtbcQHGlmBaiMiTj0UhUR2xFaqvKfos9LRzZYrFMOio1lyrbVO7rpMCsZii2XCKs7UM/s1600/sedumAnemoneOct14b.JPG" height="400" width="367" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anemone 'Alice' with Sedum 'Autumn Fire'</td></tr>
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Japanese Anemones are wonderful plants, but their tall flower stems do flop all about in an unmannerly sort of way. It looks best if with sturdy neighbors to lean on. Sedum performs this duty admirably.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8OnM9FeeuJ61_ZDsXOwAz0zH3NOJBg4MDEQ_SQfeWAXwSr88rALGR3qz0vrGofmP1xygLgsR6zhtTM1twY3aaIhOWNMfIcUmU4UjSuTe3LXHFcqCkLIXyMEG57xjxFns3PWs0r3lxgzc/s1600/sedumSept14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8OnM9FeeuJ61_ZDsXOwAz0zH3NOJBg4MDEQ_SQfeWAXwSr88rALGR3qz0vrGofmP1xygLgsR6zhtTM1twY3aaIhOWNMfIcUmU4UjSuTe3LXHFcqCkLIXyMEG57xjxFns3PWs0r3lxgzc/s1600/sedumSept14.JPG" height="400" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sedum 'Autumn Fire' in September</td></tr>
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Sedum is of course incredibly common and found even in the gardens of those who do not garden. Its popularity is quite deserved. Though not a "show-stopper" by any means, it is a stalwart four-season plant. It sits there quietly looking charmingly indestructible from spring to fall and even into winter. It is perhaps even more popular with bees than with gardeners, and we are always eager to accommodate these fuzzy little pollinators. Sedum's only potential fault is that if given too rich a soil, too much moisture, and/or too little sun, it will become floppy and open up in the center. A diet of lean soil, strong sunshine, and periodic division should prevent this problem.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjKxVlc8WJJ2vwvg-YOr-708hxccq6sVBPdAWfMQCJ7Jmty7yXB7pUImdrjV7eHOK57YVbJ1PkIuh-Lhi6w8hj05MoqknxEi8tew9cfQQPi283qz14T0dJNbb2eGDOWyttsU1iq6ZD1nQ/s1600/gauraLindheimeri13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjKxVlc8WJJ2vwvg-YOr-708hxccq6sVBPdAWfMQCJ7Jmty7yXB7pUImdrjV7eHOK57YVbJ1PkIuh-Lhi6w8hj05MoqknxEi8tew9cfQQPi283qz14T0dJNbb2eGDOWyttsU1iq6ZD1nQ/s1600/gauraLindheimeri13.JPG" height="400" width="345" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Gaura lindheimeri</i> in September, with Yew and Lamium 'Orchid Frost'</td></tr>
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Another fall-bloomer in the Rose Garden is <i>Gaura lindheimeri</i>. I wanted a bushy, airy plant for the back of this bed. I am not sure I'm entirely satisfied with the Gaura - it seems to be lacking in "oomf" so far. But it does bloom for a long period, from late summer throughout fall. The pale flowers show up nicely against the dark yew foliage.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUgS5wG1REMWeX5zU1VUQ24nxn4F5DYtCyMz3tyyGtStoxpz9AjY9JhOQ46lC80DRK03iZZ32veebxXr-WpoIxPG9R9hPaFCMm4GVwD1KeDuJDoiT8gQ_PBUEVHpCv90AIUiBuxKmZnoc/s1600/roseGardenSept14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUgS5wG1REMWeX5zU1VUQ24nxn4F5DYtCyMz3tyyGtStoxpz9AjY9JhOQ46lC80DRK03iZZ32veebxXr-WpoIxPG9R9hPaFCMm4GVwD1KeDuJDoiT8gQ_PBUEVHpCv90AIUiBuxKmZnoc/s1600/roseGardenSept14.JPG" height="468" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">September in the Rose Garden: Chrysanthemum 'Mammoth Lavender', 'Blue Point' Juniper, Euonymous fortunei 'Tricolor', Heuchera 'Sashay'</td></tr>
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This Chrysanthemum is smothered in bloom in September. It is one of my first Chrysanthemums to bloom, and appears to be hardy (survived the horrendous winter of 2013!) This cultivar has a low, compact, bushy habit (with no pinching), and very large flowers. In reviewing these photos I realize that the fall flowers in the Rose Garden are all pink... I do like the pink color against the bluish foliage of the Juniper and Euonymous here. The foliage of earlier-blooming <i>Iris sibirica</i> and <i>Iris tectorum</i> continue to look fresh and spiky in the background. The giant weedy hole in the picture is where some recently transplanted roses used to be. It is now filled by a large hosta, which will hopefully appreciate the semi-shady conditions better than the roses did.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj937P3knRqJTaUalsIGCO4J53_06iJtpmDta1P1XxVci1MGgR_UmOXc5dCAOPj6FLuHRt2N0iWFv_e6ZVUOgdCrup7kzjkYAzRRkPujCIYPAwolvgFKOSAPdzKICnztfpNm1IquO78TL0/s1600/geraniumPatriciaOct14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj937P3knRqJTaUalsIGCO4J53_06iJtpmDta1P1XxVci1MGgR_UmOXc5dCAOPj6FLuHRt2N0iWFv_e6ZVUOgdCrup7kzjkYAzRRkPujCIYPAwolvgFKOSAPdzKICnztfpNm1IquO78TL0/s1600/geraniumPatriciaOct14.JPG" height="400" width="343" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Geranium 'Patricia' in October</td></tr>
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Geranium 'Patricia' continues to produce a smattering of black-eyed magenta flowers throughout Fall as well as Summer. The foliage of this Geranium does not have appreciable Fall color. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Zvxraz1Dk8zdL5aX_OdbdIIdU2tjF4Dupvz0k9TVuWaHClPcZvS7jlKij_3-gG1HJlXlhskhQubSNFkBBlHoqxQgHn2vE9qtCEV1Bbdy9i5tzONv_xinREM2lqqAAUd77cugDytqX-s/s1600/roseGardenOct14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Zvxraz1Dk8zdL5aX_OdbdIIdU2tjF4Dupvz0k9TVuWaHClPcZvS7jlKij_3-gG1HJlXlhskhQubSNFkBBlHoqxQgHn2vE9qtCEV1Bbdy9i5tzONv_xinREM2lqqAAUd77cugDytqX-s/s1600/roseGardenOct14c.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Austin rose 'Eglantyne' in Fall</td></tr>
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The reblooming Austin roses do continue to spit out blooms well into Fall, although it is not of course their peak season. Here is tall, fragrant 'Eglantyne' lashed to an obelisk in October.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2P5hD_7nUS0BQdu_J5ivX4qqExYFAOqTy_HWyuSKKx4oW62B9rDObYOMFkrK7lzUs4YQtKuXEYRgV_GpUOi1dIg5nGDGYqqjNYYfz5s0mAdC3ngoku264b8pQKwStaZqRsR5NdpMzYDo/s1600/quinceAromatnayaOct14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2P5hD_7nUS0BQdu_J5ivX4qqExYFAOqTy_HWyuSKKx4oW62B9rDObYOMFkrK7lzUs4YQtKuXEYRgV_GpUOi1dIg5nGDGYqqjNYYfz5s0mAdC3ngoku264b8pQKwStaZqRsR5NdpMzYDo/s1600/quinceAromatnayaOct14.JPG" height="400" width="295" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quince 'Aromatnaya' - Fruit on tree in October</td></tr>
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Finally, my Quince tree is located at the back of this bed, and in 2014 it produced 4 large yellow fruits. I made them into a delicious quince candy. Even though Fall is not the focal season of the Rose Garden, tucking in fall-interest plants here and there means there is still plenty to enjoy.spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-81640254710863919142015-02-12T11:07:00.002-06:002015-02-12T11:07:28.369-06:00Rose Garden in Late SummerThe Rose Garden continues to be interesting throughout the summer, even beyond peak rose bloom.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAmEgVHkRhYKJnT_eCM2ohp057l4wmYPIHYiaJwsKQ8HonVJobt8pu8aJXHqRtC_JO9LIvFu06IgaJEAk1qSg3y7xbP_KY0C5tMo5cey-56z6FCiKP8SfYaABRHwlHbkJFKwjtwfXEEyU/s1600/roseGardenJuly14b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAmEgVHkRhYKJnT_eCM2ohp057l4wmYPIHYiaJwsKQ8HonVJobt8pu8aJXHqRtC_JO9LIvFu06IgaJEAk1qSg3y7xbP_KY0C5tMo5cey-56z6FCiKP8SfYaABRHwlHbkJFKwjtwfXEEyU/s1600/roseGardenJuly14b.JPG" height="281" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Rose Garden in July</td></tr>
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First of all, I have tried to include good foliage plants throughout the garden, to carry it through lulls in blooming. There are a purple leaved Cotinus 'Velvet Cloak', snowy white Salix 'Hakuro-Nishiki', silver Lamb's Ears, bushy green Euphorbias, Sedum, and various dwarf evergreens.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjte_2VSGPgRND6jW5LrFBgUb747ru70_poiPSerjTFH9KJXmVLBdKBAuAy_hePbx1zs-W72vCh8I2cpnkcj0fUA1N1LQc0cnGuWC2sXRnS_tqjsoXycYBktuTxfQEWt8Dc6wjGEud3QIw/s1600/roseGardenJuly14e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjte_2VSGPgRND6jW5LrFBgUb747ru70_poiPSerjTFH9KJXmVLBdKBAuAy_hePbx1zs-W72vCh8I2cpnkcj0fUA1N1LQc0cnGuWC2sXRnS_tqjsoXycYBktuTxfQEWt8Dc6wjGEud3QIw/s1600/roseGardenJuly14e.JPG" height="475" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LA hybrid Lily 'Red Alert', with Cotinus 'Velvet Cloak' and foliage of Peony 'Bartzella'</td></tr>
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But there are some mid- to late-summer bloomers in here too. These stunning red LA Lilies bloom in July. This type of lily is said to be fragrant, but I do not detect much of a scent.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF5HVv4fVqOlZKHSjftMcTb4vXkYcxH_nnnmhj6tgP7X5rec1WW-41sXUCb1UueCS1dIDmczxDxmAZwssVFONJhhgl9ieoC_D2dfoHpqdeAlxXWAjRGZsnqas8Jr9aE297ARGscjLhH90/s1600/redAlertJuly14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF5HVv4fVqOlZKHSjftMcTb4vXkYcxH_nnnmhj6tgP7X5rec1WW-41sXUCb1UueCS1dIDmczxDxmAZwssVFONJhhgl9ieoC_D2dfoHpqdeAlxXWAjRGZsnqas8Jr9aE297ARGscjLhH90/s1600/redAlertJuly14.JPG" height="315" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LA hybrid lily 'Red Alert'</td></tr>
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I grow LA Lilies not for their fragrance but for their appearance - they have much better flower power and substance than regular Asiatic Lilies, with the same or better bright color range. They seem to increase rapidly.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrUaSlxfSPdIBCA9YiGeRcG_X2jbGGQdGWD14wyyMtba33dYGnBAVKbZrK_AZO7ShVt1Lw-4AWE5RZxhv5SZJZb5AxYqSwW38Puw19ECri05tgzaSHhA1nvRW7IB6W4eUP1wJPtAZ-lh8/s1600/etoileVioletteJune14d.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrUaSlxfSPdIBCA9YiGeRcG_X2jbGGQdGWD14wyyMtba33dYGnBAVKbZrK_AZO7ShVt1Lw-4AWE5RZxhv5SZJZb5AxYqSwW38Puw19ECri05tgzaSHhA1nvRW7IB6W4eUP1wJPtAZ-lh8/s1600/etoileVioletteJune14d.JPG" height="400" width="286" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clematis 'Etoile Violette'</td></tr>
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<i>Clematis viticella</i> 'Etoile Violette' also blooms in mid-summer, from late June to July. It has very dark purple flowers indeed - almost too dark, I'm afraid - they recede a bit too much for me. A lighter background might help to show them off better.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjoP0JC1xbtv-rVQSalAWdL0rpH9SlYVfDFuP14elDv3Vhhmu1kTrYZZOrE_rsJ6Tbrg4XsiNTHnMoYcUTYqsw1qE8fvP11sRac9Ly8WP2Ph51YMVzSDLvqRSzEGxjB8bDTb4Nym-ISIw/s1600/roseGardenJuly14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjoP0JC1xbtv-rVQSalAWdL0rpH9SlYVfDFuP14elDv3Vhhmu1kTrYZZOrE_rsJ6Tbrg4XsiNTHnMoYcUTYqsw1qE8fvP11sRac9Ly8WP2Ph51YMVzSDLvqRSzEGxjB8bDTb4Nym-ISIw/s1600/roseGardenJuly14c.JPG" height="301" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose Garden in July: Clematis, Barberry, Yew, and Quince tree</td></tr>
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It is a very vigorous and free-flowering clematis, however, like all viticellas. This is only its third year - it will presumably get bigger than this with time. It climbs a trellis in the back of the Rose Garden, behind a young yew, Barberry 'Crimson Pygmy', and Quince 'Aromatnaya'.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioMfNDMeNJhyz1wQpkQb-x9g_u6G4Hjmm9LwBbp6uhl64NAHl6oYV5_p0nh4tKjkDqYpVNe4iECw5Of-yY7B1uoBX2j3WdkBWvNMlhYbE-83BW9HEjfPBQ5kj1_yb_4JiAQJWoVMrZxoE/s1600/roseGardenJuly14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioMfNDMeNJhyz1wQpkQb-x9g_u6G4Hjmm9LwBbp6uhl64NAHl6oYV5_p0nh4tKjkDqYpVNe4iECw5Of-yY7B1uoBX2j3WdkBWvNMlhYbE-83BW9HEjfPBQ5kj1_yb_4JiAQJWoVMrZxoE/s1600/roseGardenJuly14.JPG" height="400" width="336" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose Garden in July: Allium tanguticum 'Summer Beauty' and Sedum</td></tr>
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Another July bloomer is <i>Allium tanguticum</i> 'Summer Beauty'. It is an unusual Flowering Allium, having mid-summer blooms and foliage that remains healthy and attractive all season. (Most Alliums bloom in spring and deteriorate horribly immediately afterwards.) Not a show-stopper, by any means, but a valuable contributor for the Dog Days of Summer. It flowers in front of the Quince and Barberry, near Sedum 'Autumn Fire.' The roses in the picture are recently transplated Austin 'Sophy's Rose' - hopefully they will add their red blooms to the picture in future years.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib5ehXoR6FVTGiR5yLbeIYoWe0iqZot-c_zbP-vW46-u6wPTFoOvUzYheIvF-G062gDnL6_FrfKbmuVEfZvV8MSY1hJIGLpT3Qt8U3wCNeIiqzQ6_ESfAdn9sUs864l6Lx1WS7t-a6XcI/s1600/perovskiaAug14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib5ehXoR6FVTGiR5yLbeIYoWe0iqZot-c_zbP-vW46-u6wPTFoOvUzYheIvF-G062gDnL6_FrfKbmuVEfZvV8MSY1hJIGLpT3Qt8U3wCNeIiqzQ6_ESfAdn9sUs864l6Lx1WS7t-a6XcI/s1600/perovskiaAug14.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Russian sage (<i>Perovskia atripicifolia</i>) in late summer</td></tr>
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Russian sage (<i>Perovskia atripicifolia</i>) blooms in July through August. It is a large, sprawly, wispy plant whose charm I find difficult to capture in a photograph.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZ-o-qeRk4B2yaaXbCnV4M6RGI0TrFjDxktD91quN0DQPSYmJeunWFDBdRULqPA2W2JvLY1zmYU1hGRP6M_bHPY-oBXGpGwCq6yKn4ZXYU7RLKzCKLEr2SOtyJkGpcMV0X5MvhgG_KUs/s1600/prunellaGrandifloraFreelanderBlueJune14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZ-o-qeRk4B2yaaXbCnV4M6RGI0TrFjDxktD91quN0DQPSYmJeunWFDBdRULqPA2W2JvLY1zmYU1hGRP6M_bHPY-oBXGpGwCq6yKn4ZXYU7RLKzCKLEr2SOtyJkGpcMV0X5MvhgG_KUs/s1600/prunellaGrandifloraFreelanderBlueJune14.JPG" height="295" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Prunella grandiflora</i> 'Freelander Blue' and <i>Euonymous fortunei</i> 'Tricolor'</td></tr>
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At the Sage's feet are a vibrant Self-Heal (<i>Prunella grandiflora</i> 'Freelander Blue') and the variegated evergreen <i>Euonymous fortunei</i> 'Tricolor'. The Prunella is new, but so far very satisfactory. It has a low, creeping profile, and smothers itself with dark blue-purple flowers from late June through August. Hopefully it will prove hardy.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij0TPaQVbu4yKH2v_hyphenhyphenJcxodl3woAiMwUMChz_T7oN7i72ZXwHBzLEmcyLketf90E56emtGPvm76Kxecwj5jEdwzlT1TRfosh7_FlM24y871scWMFFi_QCH6hn6ssisEaUCVBQLMnPX6E/s1600/roseSalixJuly14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij0TPaQVbu4yKH2v_hyphenhyphenJcxodl3woAiMwUMChz_T7oN7i72ZXwHBzLEmcyLketf90E56emtGPvm76Kxecwj5jEdwzlT1TRfosh7_FlM24y871scWMFFi_QCH6hn6ssisEaUCVBQLMnPX6E/s1600/roseSalixJuly14.JPG" height="400" width="322" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose 'Eglantyne' and Salix 'Hakuro-Nishiki' in July</td></tr>
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Of course, some of the roses continue blooming through the summer as well, although their peak bloom is in June and September. The fragrant pink David Austin rose 'Eglantyne' throws off blooms continuously all summer long as it sprawls all over its neighbors.<br />
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Mid and Late summer are not my favorite times in the garden - I find the heat and drought oppressive, and there are no peonies in July... :-) I therefore tend not to emphasize summer bloomers in my plantings. However, I have learned that good foliage plants, plus a smattering of blooms, helps keep the garden together until my next favorite season - Fall - comes along.spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-70102294419720073482015-02-10T17:28:00.000-06:002015-02-12T09:27:08.574-06:00Rose Garden in Early SummerThe transition from spring to early summer is marked by the flowering of Giant Allium (ornamental onion). These huge purple globes fill the uncomfortable gap between early bulbs like tulips and daffodils, and summer flowering peonies and roses.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyPZH8qWllO610gBILUUQgqDImLdI-21215aZpva-lHvnoOOFHJZjY2lXuc4-YsTZAqw8BbiQnQq0sCwDVRCGyQTq3VqdwWO2DRpL1raT0Ukl1PRdBHE8qw8iewKl286C4QPCw0jg3A0k/s1600/roseGardenMay14zc.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyPZH8qWllO610gBILUUQgqDImLdI-21215aZpva-lHvnoOOFHJZjY2lXuc4-YsTZAqw8BbiQnQq0sCwDVRCGyQTq3VqdwWO2DRpL1raT0Ukl1PRdBHE8qw8iewKl286C4QPCw0jg3A0k/s1600/roseGardenMay14zc.JPG" height="425" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Giant Allium bloom in the pause between spring and summer</td></tr>
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Allium foliage begins to die even as they bloom, and is an unsightly mess - however I cannot resist their fantastical effect on the garden. It's best to tuck them away behind something bushy. I am counting on my purple-leaved Cotinus shrub to grow a bit more and play the role of concealer.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3oPf2bvOLwcD-Ws1ZeWJMkJEnPBwiD8ihXd9FFXkQmJfp0sf7yGDgLog7wE2qLV9MDuZTiV3FCerHi3GaAInJ4Le3G-jdv3en1G739Uiob15jqlEn0kgRQ60ajH5k0J8KU8Oe3htf-i0/s1600/roseGardenMay14zh.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3oPf2bvOLwcD-Ws1ZeWJMkJEnPBwiD8ihXd9FFXkQmJfp0sf7yGDgLog7wE2qLV9MDuZTiV3FCerHi3GaAInJ4Le3G-jdv3en1G739Uiob15jqlEn0kgRQ60ajH5k0J8KU8Oe3htf-i0/s1600/roseGardenMay14zh.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nepeta 'Little Trudy' begins to bloom just before the roses do</td></tr>
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Another plant that begins blooming in early summer is Catmint (<i>Nepeta</i>). Most Catmints get quite large, but this is 'Little Trudy' - a very tiny cultivar which is under a foot tall. It is relatively new in my garden and I am still evaluating its performance, but so far I am pleased with the flowers and form. The larger ones - such as 'Walker's Low' - are more floriferous, but there is no space for them here. I think 'Little Trudy' makes a nice edger.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzTimziBTFn9Rv6GVEOCoVWg6n1iNxKU58ilTH9HV_xlmi-HPjo2DOh2SMPERCyeK6kKBLXQE0U_iwZloNwQzKAOakQPBYDvgX26CGbYUAceNraz1shobfYRdbFngEWbTERo_LDwAe-F4/s1600/roseGardenJune14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzTimziBTFn9Rv6GVEOCoVWg6n1iNxKU58ilTH9HV_xlmi-HPjo2DOh2SMPERCyeK6kKBLXQE0U_iwZloNwQzKAOakQPBYDvgX26CGbYUAceNraz1shobfYRdbFngEWbTERo_LDwAe-F4/s1600/roseGardenJune14c.JPG" height="307" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cotinus 'Velvet Cloak', Lamb's Ears, and <i>Abies balsamea</i> 'Piccolo'</td></tr>
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By mid-June, the Lamb's Ears are stretching upwards, and the Cotinus is fully clothed in its beautiful leaves. I'm not particularly fond of Lamb's Ear in flower, so I often snip off the stalks (have not done that yet here).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg72iQOwQXG7CkXrVHBnPkPf2cXBydCHOm6VG6v3MRXr3ySMX1rvVWkEBRZG09gtifh_XC7G5tRwbThtiAFckYMkHvzJAD89Unl6PUYvnfAOGGw7w3ldt3SHLoHHCMPWS-gJ3Tz6-5mIng/s1600/cotinusEuphorbiaJune14b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg72iQOwQXG7CkXrVHBnPkPf2cXBydCHOm6VG6v3MRXr3ySMX1rvVWkEBRZG09gtifh_XC7G5tRwbThtiAFckYMkHvzJAD89Unl6PUYvnfAOGGw7w3ldt3SHLoHHCMPWS-gJ3Tz6-5mIng/s1600/cotinusEuphorbiaJune14b.JPG" height="261" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cushion spurge (<i>Euphorbia polychroma</i>), Cotinus, and Geranium 'Patricia'</td></tr>
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The strident yellow bracts of the Cushion Spurge (<i>Euphorbia polychroma</i>) have now faded, revealing reddish seedheads. I like this plant near the purple-leaved Cotinus - they make an attractive pair in multiple seasons. Geranium 'Patricia' blooms in June as well - this Geranium has very strong magenta flowers that are somewhat softened by the dark purple nearby.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-RAxNHdo1OXsukLuJu-ft5TpxRpgwtNjepcPOAABLCU7epGcG2GBEU1LX8idz9IOaQVup_bg-ku2thtK3wt6K2PUF86MX2RtzZotrjxNQSdOH46keGwpG6LfyN-6m766WOH4R2eD4JF0/s1600/geraniumPulsatillaEuphorbiaJune14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-RAxNHdo1OXsukLuJu-ft5TpxRpgwtNjepcPOAABLCU7epGcG2GBEU1LX8idz9IOaQVup_bg-ku2thtK3wt6K2PUF86MX2RtzZotrjxNQSdOH46keGwpG6LfyN-6m766WOH4R2eD4JF0/s1600/geraniumPulsatillaEuphorbiaJune14.JPG" height="400" width="330" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Pulsatilla vulgaris</i> seedheads, Geranium 'Patricia'</td></tr>
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The Pasque Flower (<i>Pulsatilla vulgaris</i>), which bloomed so early in Spring, in Summer is adorned with freaky-looking fuzzy seedheads. It has been seeding itself around somewhat aggressively - I'll let them flower and then decide which ones to keep. I like this Geranium for its personable black centers and neat veining, but it is one of the sprawlier Geraniums I grow. I sometimes end up shearing it back multiple times per year.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxiPGU_NdYeptJVGGZAJfo2tqbKFNxuQ5evgwnEBFb_nC1TDiurNIgbXkiuu-OO-87bzKXoN29SIlDsiFFD-2tuGQ0QmA2JBXFnJoSNxCbt2AXzq1x7-GnzyK_DsGiG6w_REN-WhSRJLk/s1600/roseGardenJune14d.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxiPGU_NdYeptJVGGZAJfo2tqbKFNxuQ5evgwnEBFb_nC1TDiurNIgbXkiuu-OO-87bzKXoN29SIlDsiFFD-2tuGQ0QmA2JBXFnJoSNxCbt2AXzq1x7-GnzyK_DsGiG6w_REN-WhSRJLk/s1600/roseGardenJune14d.JPG" height="400" width="306" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heuchera 'Pinot Gris', <i>Alchemilla mollis</i>, and Geranium 'Nimbus'</td></tr>
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At the front of the bed, Lady's Mantle (<i>Alchemilla mollis</i>) and Geranium 'Nimbus' begin flowering in mid-June. 'Nimbus' is one of my favorite Geraniums (so far!) - it has pretty blue-purple flowers, a long flowering period, attractive cut-leaf foliage, and a neat mounding/spreading habit (unlike, for example, the popular but formless 'Rozanne'). Heuchera starts flowering at this time as well - this is 'Pinot Gris', one of my favorite Heucheras for both foliage and elegant, long-lasting flowers. Most Heuchera are good for foliage OR flowers, but this one has both, in my opinion. You can see the grassy foliage of the Crocus that bloomed earlier here too - it hangs about like this for a while, then disappears suddenly almost overnight.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdH2H9Rjp03HCYznOXcK0nqpj2VHScKh8yYs-J-8_dLaONZ6z0Rq4p-g3M4C53x980T5HD0RSit-5rDpf9lfGrRMe1QjN3l-dQXskhJR8HJSmgoU7yEobhMl8e6Dz1l2F9dA9ceaLANVs/s1600/heucheraAlchemillaGeranium14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdH2H9Rjp03HCYznOXcK0nqpj2VHScKh8yYs-J-8_dLaONZ6z0Rq4p-g3M4C53x980T5HD0RSit-5rDpf9lfGrRMe1QjN3l-dQXskhJR8HJSmgoU7yEobhMl8e6Dz1l2F9dA9ceaLANVs/s1600/heucheraAlchemillaGeranium14.JPG" height="400" width="278" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heuchera 'Pinot Gris', flowering in June</td></tr>
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Here is the Heuchera again, now in full flower. It retains its pretty flowers for an extended period. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMjQZeqJdl0QVDdjOhUI1Nl_yvV588nSi5gjq9PwGPIe1RQ-UyJD6HldbRG5VpNvcvgdYtSyMQmL1UPWTbHXKviQ_pB5qSEbPxPNECEDuB53aRrlbPb11Zh3DVGCE3PZilB2VlP1_u3yA/s1600/irisAlchemillaAmsoniaJune14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMjQZeqJdl0QVDdjOhUI1Nl_yvV588nSi5gjq9PwGPIe1RQ-UyJD6HldbRG5VpNvcvgdYtSyMQmL1UPWTbHXKviQ_pB5qSEbPxPNECEDuB53aRrlbPb11Zh3DVGCE3PZilB2VlP1_u3yA/s1600/irisAlchemillaAmsoniaJune14.JPG" height="257" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Iris tectorum var. alba</i>, Amsonia 'Blue Ice', and <i>Alchemilla mollis</i></td></tr>
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More June-bloomers in this area include a white-flowered form of <i>Iris tectorum</i> (Japanese Roof Iris) and Amsonia 'Blue Ice'. They are at the front edge of the border in a fairly shady spot, but seem to be tolerating it well so far. The Amsonia grows slowly and is still quite small. I am very pleased with the Roof Iris - the large, delicate flowers are intricate and graceful. The upright spikes of foliage are a refreshing light green color, and retain their healthy good looks throughout the season. (I am not fond of Bearded Irises due to their icky post-bloom deteriorating foliage.) I have always heard that Roof Iris needs a "sheltered" spot - not quite sure what that means, but so far it seems OK along the edge of the sidewalk here.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHpDtPGNGWJn-x6gfD4JFlNOtvS3HqUpNP0qlAVkrKM4m7eRQZVpk8sb9CJWOyCY4OkYhwDdf9XJDLD8Bw-hB9DP3gxJORmBRdQsJoNNCGsWUQLOnHD_vNHzDuXOUtt7Lfh7OnqPLgztA/s1600/roseGardenJune14f.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHpDtPGNGWJn-x6gfD4JFlNOtvS3HqUpNP0qlAVkrKM4m7eRQZVpk8sb9CJWOyCY4OkYhwDdf9XJDLD8Bw-hB9DP3gxJORmBRdQsJoNNCGsWUQLOnHD_vNHzDuXOUtt7Lfh7OnqPLgztA/s1600/roseGardenJune14f.JPG" height="506" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose Garden in mid-June: <i>Rosa alba</i>, Geranium 'Patricia'</td></tr>
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Now for the roses: I named this area the "Rose Garden" because I originally planned to have about 10 different roses planted here. This ended up not working out for a variety of reasons (rabbits, disease, winterkill, too much shade...) and the area currently has only four varieties of roses. Some of the original roses had to be shovel-pruned, and some were relocated to other more hospitable areas. The large rose bush above appears to be a <i>Rosa alba</i>, possibly 'Great Maiden's Blush', although I cannot be sure. I had ordered a <i>Rosa gallica</i>, which this very clearly is not. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvAOlfgaXLX5IOt5gNRWy6slR3T_2uwere5fcTdwnN-Juv-Bic40wS6aFE2veXX0WrVYKMhiOtZtCcaCkiyyX_78rXGVw0VGUPvSyebjPtLxsSOsVutrquQ5T0VxNVEjta3qlGOy5HhQs/s1600/maidensBlush14g.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvAOlfgaXLX5IOt5gNRWy6slR3T_2uwere5fcTdwnN-Juv-Bic40wS6aFE2veXX0WrVYKMhiOtZtCcaCkiyyX_78rXGVw0VGUPvSyebjPtLxsSOsVutrquQ5T0VxNVEjta3qlGOy5HhQs/s1600/maidensBlush14g.JPG" height="278" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Rosa alba</i>, possibly 'Great Maiden's Blush'? - on first opening</td></tr>
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It definitely appears to be an alba rose. It has the characteristic alba foliage and divine fragrance. Nice fat buds and lovely button eye in the center. It is a large, shrubby plant - much different in form from my other two albas (which are tall and lanky). Ironclad disease resistant foliage, despite the somewhat shady location. Overall it has the nicest plant habit of my albas and is very well-foliated. It blooms incredibly profusely, and opens its blooms gradually, over an extended period of several weeks. The color starts out a strong pink, but quickly fades to a somewhat pale, washed out color.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsVkfDMorb389YhsW9S-7EXv935Ztwmqbo0_Ihpx1Y3uP3_mOXYgNJdAt9wH7lZfh3-hklldg6WqDwQUE2SVxRxl9ZRwNSjtqIv3-ZwEROOZSFWvmMKsh4-Oe3R9VbgELSQCIBiT_83vE/s1600/maidensBlush14d.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsVkfDMorb389YhsW9S-7EXv935Ztwmqbo0_Ihpx1Y3uP3_mOXYgNJdAt9wH7lZfh3-hklldg6WqDwQUE2SVxRxl9ZRwNSjtqIv3-ZwEROOZSFWvmMKsh4-Oe3R9VbgELSQCIBiT_83vE/s1600/maidensBlush14d.JPG" height="347" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Rosa alba</i> (possibly 'Great Maiden's Blush'?) - faded blooms </td></tr>
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The color fading is really my only complaint about this rose. That and the fact that I had envisioned a dark purple-crimson Gallica here, which would have looked so fabby with the purples, grays and mauves going on in this area... But, I just can't bring myself to move this dame, as she seems so happy here - whatever her name is. Sigh.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJF_6dt8a40COwrxlAyTKz3gwCpW4wLL4GKxHu3ragn2VZZM-6okqw_0wO727jG-WircmeUNll7vYeZOGRzCMl1Psn2EY-1U6ZK-nKmoBi5CJLbyFzRhGGWA_Q-XCTcQLVyZ3mpXLevI/s1600/eglantyneJuly14e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJF_6dt8a40COwrxlAyTKz3gwCpW4wLL4GKxHu3ragn2VZZM-6okqw_0wO727jG-WircmeUNll7vYeZOGRzCMl1Psn2EY-1U6ZK-nKmoBi5CJLbyFzRhGGWA_Q-XCTcQLVyZ3mpXLevI/s1600/eglantyneJuly14e.JPG" height="400" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Eglantyne' Rose with Salix 'Hakuro-Nishiki'</td></tr>
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The other roses remaining in this area are all David Austin English roses. Here is 'Eglantyne' - a very tall rose which apparently has at least some Alba parentage. The large flowers are a lovely shade of warm pink suffused with yellow, and the fragrance is very pleasing. This rose does get a fair amount of blackspot for me, and seems to be a favorite of the Japanese beetles, which are a major pest here. It does not ever bloom very profusely, but has a nice steady crop of flowers all summer and into fall. I've also had difficulty figuring out what to do with its lanky form. Here it is growing as a floppy bush, but by late summer it ends up sprawling all over the ground if not supported. It also becomes very defoliated at its lower limbs. I have installed a tall obelisk, and plan to try wrapping it around in twisty curves. We'll see how this works next year!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6SIVy6QxoYhyphenhyphenVotuCz4fAp36nUjiT1f3aWM_2d3h9Ldkb4TigW_4zO9sm4tbX-BFIIi6kpqCW-QcENQgMJzdGU6dNSI2fpqFTzUcXjBhhyaWXNGXkkDTo8HmrcI32L_kTVOnkQzqa9Hw/s1600/sophysRose13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6SIVy6QxoYhyphenhyphenVotuCz4fAp36nUjiT1f3aWM_2d3h9Ldkb4TigW_4zO9sm4tbX-BFIIi6kpqCW-QcENQgMJzdGU6dNSI2fpqFTzUcXjBhhyaWXNGXkkDTo8HmrcI32L_kTVOnkQzqa9Hw/s1600/sophysRose13.JPG" height="282" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">David Austin rose 'Sophy's Rose'</td></tr>
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'Sophy's Rose' is another Austin rose in the Rose Garden. I have three of these smaller shrubs clustered together. This is perhaps my favorite of the Austins so far - the color is eye-popping, the "Chinese" looking scrolled flower form is enticing, and the fragrance is light but unusual and very appealing. This rose has also been much healthier than my other Austins. The attractive, red-edged foliage always looks fresh and healthy. This one seems to bloom in one large flush in early summer, then again in fall. I did not like the original site I selected for it, so last year made the perhaps unwise decision to transplant all three bushes in mid-summer. They were in shock for quite a while, but bounced back by fall and I am looking forward to good things from them next year.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2bs4pXLwZVQK_r_zAnz3XMLIOyDHHNZAZHAiJlMZr7lDcMCYoy7wUMgyggdYdp7j1hmdxJY0FVxKRNYdeFRnBXikvk7K4Me8J_S4u-_5lrESYnvUqLkOUE7JLjbfFSaYgNf5pEUJP2og/s1600/winchesterCathedralJuly14b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2bs4pXLwZVQK_r_zAnz3XMLIOyDHHNZAZHAiJlMZr7lDcMCYoy7wUMgyggdYdp7j1hmdxJY0FVxKRNYdeFRnBXikvk7K4Me8J_S4u-_5lrESYnvUqLkOUE7JLjbfFSaYgNf5pEUJP2og/s1600/winchesterCathedralJuly14b.JPG" height="400" width="271" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Austin rose 'Winchester Cathedral', with Geranium 'Nimbus' and Allium 'Drumstick'</td></tr>
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The last rose in the Rose Garden is the white Austin rose 'Winchester Cathedral'. It is a lovely rose with fine fragrance and enticing pink buds. I have had some serious blackspot issues with it, but that is perhaps because it is sited poorly in too much shade. I plan to move it to a sunnier spot in my back Patio Garden next year, where I hope it will be happier. It's a shame because I do like its purple and chartreuse companions in this spot, but it is clearly not happy here so something must be done.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilRuDCL8rv94zeCsVaTXafDbaLfsA_E2dl494cnx0BBqadB6DrBt-BAIsaKwzOvU7t0Q6OtqpW-MkFEG7lzeagvZ4LNeE7Dsio6U9YTB4rnE4yge1WGYEcty1XSDxiyj0bcrDJhK3jJ-Y/s1600/bartzella14d.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilRuDCL8rv94zeCsVaTXafDbaLfsA_E2dl494cnx0BBqadB6DrBt-BAIsaKwzOvU7t0Q6OtqpW-MkFEG7lzeagvZ4LNeE7Dsio6U9YTB4rnE4yge1WGYEcty1XSDxiyj0bcrDJhK3jJ-Y/s1600/bartzella14d.JPG" height="400" width="325" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Intersectional Peony 'Bartzella' in the June Rose Garden</td></tr>
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Also blooming in early Summer is my 'Bartzella' Intersectional Peony. Intersectional peonies are hybrids between tree peonies and herbaceous peonies. 2014 was its first year of bloom - hopefully there will be more of these glorious fluffy yellow orbs in the future. In addition to lovely blooms, Bart has a pleasant light citrusy fragrance, excellent plant habit and flower carriage, and stellar foliage throughout the seasons.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigIRxthc_hULewvumchxaNy7WAcDLkIlOZnF3W9kWlDBoatW60xTUwwVuls0-YPUXRUkE_gv8b802B1t4GJ_1dLflSncMHVE7T1fvrTIegZvOR4w-WS9LGs8zwO-h_ChYf3Daz6KQ_E64/s1600/winchesterCathedralJuly14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigIRxthc_hULewvumchxaNy7WAcDLkIlOZnF3W9kWlDBoatW60xTUwwVuls0-YPUXRUkE_gv8b802B1t4GJ_1dLflSncMHVE7T1fvrTIegZvOR4w-WS9LGs8zwO-h_ChYf3Daz6KQ_E64/s1600/winchesterCathedralJuly14c.JPG" height="400" width="376" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Austin rose 'Winchester Cathedral', with Geranium 'Nimbus', Allium 'Drumstick', and Lady's Mantle</td></tr>
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The Rose Garden may have few roses in it, but is coming along nicely. Some areas need a major overhaul, and I will be rearranging things and filling some gaps in the coming seasons.spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-54370897895653958262015-02-08T13:55:00.001-06:002015-02-08T13:55:28.414-06:00Rose Garden in Late SpringLate Spring is a time of great excitement. Shrubs leaf out, and perennials, major bulbs, and early peonies begin blooming. I've made sure to include lots of early bloomers in the rose garden, since the roses won't make their contribution until summer.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhizA5xQ82KiIMbNL4MCLle1DXbJg0ZXutE5aNMtqBMlpUOMVh_H6Hzk4XQDfHN67Iy9xbD9G-qfjmrjyLuJaT9ZgY5oLW7APXQaFCZHhiyDidyOGKFKCt2cLg388UcA55A8ZZ-GOpmxWo/s1600/roseGardenMay14b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhizA5xQ82KiIMbNL4MCLle1DXbJg0ZXutE5aNMtqBMlpUOMVh_H6Hzk4XQDfHN67Iy9xbD9G-qfjmrjyLuJaT9ZgY5oLW7APXQaFCZHhiyDidyOGKFKCt2cLg388UcA55A8ZZ-GOpmxWo/s1600/roseGardenMay14b.JPG" height="400" width="296" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Late Spring in the Rose Garden: Daffodils, Spurge, and new leaves</td></tr>
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This is early May in the Rose Garden. The roses have tiny new leaves, and daffodil blooms are scattered about (this is yellow 'King Alfred', white and orange 'Sound', and white and yellow 'Ice Follies' across the sidewalk). My fernleaf peony hybrid 'Little Red Gem' is an attractive mound of cutleaf foliage - it will bloom soon. The cushion spurge (Euphorbia polychroma) is just beginning its display of flashy yellow bracts. The early crocus have now faded, but blue Scilla blooms on in the background.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbqRmZIOHW009iywM3QWdz2iHI7-ESO_O6q7hWGgrXwJeZeF58YFsNuvA57gAVapnpk-mR_XgLrXyYE44NrDpnus3qTd6sWY-xlrt_yC01LJvbuWq3WcWR_9MhY5dbJYJaWdHERkZAxe0/s1600/roseGardenMay14j.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbqRmZIOHW009iywM3QWdz2iHI7-ESO_O6q7hWGgrXwJeZeF58YFsNuvA57gAVapnpk-mR_XgLrXyYE44NrDpnus3qTd6sWY-xlrt_yC01LJvbuWq3WcWR_9MhY5dbJYJaWdHERkZAxe0/s1600/roseGardenMay14j.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mid-May: 'Princess Irene' Tulips, Heuchera, Daffodils, and Spruce</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A week later and early tulip 'Princess Irene' has begun to bloom. This
is one of my favorite tulips - the orange color is intensely bright,
without being blinding or irritating (unlike some oranges). The slight
purple tint on the outer petals deepens and softens the color. I think it echoes the color of Heuchera 'Pinot Gris' wonderfully. The dwarf spruce (<i>Picea abies</i> 'Little Gem') is also looking colorful at this time of year, with its bright yellow new growth. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbIa1DQaCWgQ0Q5mF9q80O7orlAKe8qCm1l-dnvLFdxWERogtC4jTVauREgsw4aMqYGCDwA9sW5YC2aj-nTrhSUarZiUcob1PpOrSNBYnu5qSw5OOSeyBVMc6OSe2tuRJuTKTPzja0gHI/s1600/roseGardenMay14h.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbIa1DQaCWgQ0Q5mF9q80O7orlAKe8qCm1l-dnvLFdxWERogtC4jTVauREgsw4aMqYGCDwA9sW5YC2aj-nTrhSUarZiUcob1PpOrSNBYnu5qSw5OOSeyBVMc6OSe2tuRJuTKTPzja0gHI/s1600/roseGardenMay14h.JPG" height="280" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Princess Irene' Tulips, Hyacinths, Lamium, and Barberry</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Another patch of 'Princess Irene' at the back corner of the Rose Garden. Here it contrasts sharply with the dark new leaves of Barberry 'Crimson Pygmy'. As you can see the White hyacinths are still going strong, and Lamium 'Orchid Frost' has begun to bloom at the foot of my young quince tree. It creeps and expands fairly rapidly, but is not hard to pull out.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT3zfFNjfcKWtvDlVyIm_JT1_B3Nh9vj5Jfjs_x1KNf90cNga0GzimD_jvZ7TVpm7HuhZ-qfKkZwytCBMTq6w3492rA_M8OkexwOz14Uc0Cifw8kqQk27Z8ArqeWOExnDEtBUyUx1BfOU/s1600/roseGardenMay14l.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT3zfFNjfcKWtvDlVyIm_JT1_B3Nh9vj5Jfjs_x1KNf90cNga0GzimD_jvZ7TVpm7HuhZ-qfKkZwytCBMTq6w3492rA_M8OkexwOz14Uc0Cifw8kqQk27Z8ArqeWOExnDEtBUyUx1BfOU/s1600/roseGardenMay14l.JPG" height="288" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mid May: 'Princess Irene' Tulips, Lamium 'Orchid Frost'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Here is the same area from a different angle, a few days later. Lamium is now in full bloom, the barberry begins to glow, and the quince has fuzzy gray new leaves. Clematis vines start their ascent of the trellis (which needs to be painted!) in the background. The small yew (which needs a trim!) also puts on a new flush of growth.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFG38Wearq9-9vYV-TawRH7TOLlTvy4TZFXfaFwVzCCLMnpUfNsO5GYeTMyTUW5KVVIrmz5xwMA0QG5vdxmTaqiPV_MDJjtRaqYCv1GgNRpISZlklHCPa5dXDWj0UYT6AW-yZd1Um556I/s1600/roseGardenMay14s.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFG38Wearq9-9vYV-TawRH7TOLlTvy4TZFXfaFwVzCCLMnpUfNsO5GYeTMyTUW5KVVIrmz5xwMA0QG5vdxmTaqiPV_MDJjtRaqYCv1GgNRpISZlklHCPa5dXDWj0UYT6AW-yZd1Um556I/s1600/roseGardenMay14s.JPG" height="321" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mid May: <i>Tulipa humilis</i> and Spurge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Meanwhile, in another corner, another early tulip has begun to bloom. This is the tiny species tulip 'Little Beauty' (<i>Tulipa humilis</i>). Unlike standard tulips, this type has unobtrusive, grass-like foliage that dies away almost imperceptibly when its time has come. The blooms are little but very cute. They are bright enough to stand up to the intensity of the Euphorbia in full glory. They also look good near my purple smoke bush (<i>Cotinus coggygria</i> 'Velvet Cloak'), which begins to leaf out now. The jewel-toned leaves of this shrub look fabulous from spring to fall. I cut it back to the ground every year to keep it small - otherwise it grows into a rather large tree. The dwarf conifer here is a fir - <i>Abies balsamea</i> 'Piccolo'. I will probably have to move this soon as it is too close to the Cotinus - hopefully I will manage to do this without killing it in the process!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjftPkokCFLmxZJou59LDLwbme1w3FA3GAsJPb_RtAT-j3dK9p3UlOnPVCxkrHCIVHWHTpv2M8t7OeGwkC2L17fOnqpFnM-khfFxEquDgmsdtGeaOAz9ceuLayqGpTmm0FthyphenhyphenRWlYCmzpY/s1600/roseGardenMay14x.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjftPkokCFLmxZJou59LDLwbme1w3FA3GAsJPb_RtAT-j3dK9p3UlOnPVCxkrHCIVHWHTpv2M8t7OeGwkC2L17fOnqpFnM-khfFxEquDgmsdtGeaOAz9ceuLayqGpTmm0FthyphenhyphenRWlYCmzpY/s1600/roseGardenMay14x.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Late May: Spurge and 'Little Red Gem' Peony</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Finally, at the end of May my 'Little Red Gem' peony blooms. This is a so-called "Rock Garden" peony, which is a hybrid of several small European species peonies. It is much smaller than the Chinese Paeonia lactiflora types, and appears to have some fernleaf in its blood, judging by the fine foliage. It is my earliest herbaceous peony to bloom.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7A8xl8Lq-NjjLUhFGPFl30OtpmPbzp-XcgGlspBslkLVPFB7WdXLuRwQyqnEQrlNw_5HM607hFwy1pXIMbeCL2l6O2GBDMzzPhWodTuYWYZNzlo6ggJDm0DuUAF_ZiWf5qvIUj2Dmu6Q/s1600/roseGardenMay14y.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7A8xl8Lq-NjjLUhFGPFl30OtpmPbzp-XcgGlspBslkLVPFB7WdXLuRwQyqnEQrlNw_5HM607hFwy1pXIMbeCL2l6O2GBDMzzPhWodTuYWYZNzlo6ggJDm0DuUAF_ZiWf5qvIUj2Dmu6Q/s1600/roseGardenMay14y.JPG" height="425" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Late May in the Rose Garden: Peony 'Little Red Gem' and 'Princess Irene' Tulips</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
'Little Red Gem' is not really red - more of a deep pink. A lovely color that stands up well to the bright tulips and spurge which bloom with it. The rose behind it is a large, exuberant <i>Rosa alba</i>. It is very hardy and one of my earliest roses to leaf out in spring. At its feet, some dwarf Catmint (<i>Nepeta </i>'Little Trudy') are just beginning to show color along the edge of the border.<br />
<br />
Next up: June, and some actual roses!<br />
<br />
<br />spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-9976720122041215532015-02-08T11:05:00.000-06:002015-02-08T11:05:25.315-06:00New Feature: Garden TourI have added a new page to my blog called "<a href="http://virtualvisitmygarden.blogspot.com/p/garden-tour.html">Garden Tour</a>." There is a map showing the layout of my gardens, and over the next few weeks I will be adding links to mini-tours of the various areas. You can enjoy a virtual stroll through the gardens season by season. Enjoy!spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-38597313246579907502015-02-08T10:34:00.002-06:002015-02-08T10:34:26.102-06:00Rose Garden in Early Spring<br />
Here in Wisconsin, the snow usually melts some time in March, revealing bare branches and expanses of drab brown leaf litter. I try to include a few evergreens throughout my garden to give the eye some relief throughout the winter.<br />
<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU284IbnE6U9nUx1_kkkV7Ulc1Q0HxkMdLGb5p5_7jeAz7yKMmLY9xA4cNEan7tsvqEryh3Cg67WsVwqAJzARZJHR3OfySlWtjbsWmoyn6przaG9V4VCJz3U-HvEtgH-MzQX3njF4u7OQ/s1600/roseGardenMarch14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU284IbnE6U9nUx1_kkkV7Ulc1Q0HxkMdLGb5p5_7jeAz7yKMmLY9xA4cNEan7tsvqEryh3Cg67WsVwqAJzARZJHR3OfySlWtjbsWmoyn6przaG9V4VCJz3U-HvEtgH-MzQX3njF4u7OQ/s1600/roseGardenMarch14.JPG" height="259" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peony Bed and Rose Garden just after snow melt </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The front of the Rose Garden is on the far side of the picture above. The roses are as yet a tangle of bare stems. Thank goodness for the 'Little Gem' Dwarf Spruce (<i>Picea abies</i>) and 'Blue Point' Juniper (<i>Juniperus chinensis</i>). In the foreground is the lovely Dwarf Pine 'Slowmound' (<i>Pinus mugo</i>). The Rose Garden also contains a 'Piccolo' Dwarf Balsam Fir (<i>Abies balsamea</i>) and a Yew at the back, not pictured here.<br />
<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj5yeonOGo6l1Ftz9NH7vq9PnUDuLq8NzkVPIrTGpEOcpzk-gAL-8rrN-2RuOzVLTTj6Hnlgjs2zBsBOJXB3V-8w_xS-3h1-EptaDtc-NrUiXV2IuCffy2ebFYi_FRnQ0LmEDbzU0ClEE/s1600/roseGardenApril14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj5yeonOGo6l1Ftz9NH7vq9PnUDuLq8NzkVPIrTGpEOcpzk-gAL-8rrN-2RuOzVLTTj6Hnlgjs2zBsBOJXB3V-8w_xS-3h1-EptaDtc-NrUiXV2IuCffy2ebFYi_FRnQ0LmEDbzU0ClEE/s1600/roseGardenApril14c.JPG" height="282" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Crocus vernus</i> 'Yellow Mammoth' bloom in very early Spring</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The first bloom in this area is <i>Crocus vernus</i> 'Yellow Mammoth'. How grateful we are for this searing shot of color at this time! Depending on the year, things may begin to pop in late March or early April.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2pzQHC9d9xiy8M23LG6iAcCq5czrTsdY3HW0bhbjBnXHjzEtYvhSLe33AzN7lgLbIgZw_7QYPNEWNdiS-an0hciB4jnxuvmMNDk2FDrrJilw8KgzakzeRLKQWlCuXpEsNUL7N1w3bwMc/s1600/roseGardenApril14j.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2pzQHC9d9xiy8M23LG6iAcCq5czrTsdY3HW0bhbjBnXHjzEtYvhSLe33AzN7lgLbIgZw_7QYPNEWNdiS-an0hciB4jnxuvmMNDk2FDrrJilw8KgzakzeRLKQWlCuXpEsNUL7N1w3bwMc/s1600/roseGardenApril14j.JPG" height="324" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early Spring in the Rose Garden: Little spring bulbs and a flush of new leaves</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
About a week later the bright blue flowers of Striped Squill 'Spring Beauty' (<i>Scilla siberica</i>) join in the show. The foliage of some early-growing perennials is starting to warm the scene as well: Heuchera have shining new leaves, and we can see signs of growth on Lady's Mantle and Hardy Geraniums. The daffodils-to-come are pushing up perky green spikes all around.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiN1jZqP0XUoifpA1K1CyHxAOcnftta0Itpo-64Gn5hU5GOIOLbL41TlIyvYVvW4NtCKWRRIycQTqNKi9aGVGYO0djJFiQKfFK2T95dbULUpzYTl0-LETAwPp3_nwBAXLdSWeKA4pGpKE/s1600/chionodoxaWedgewoodBlue14b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiN1jZqP0XUoifpA1K1CyHxAOcnftta0Itpo-64Gn5hU5GOIOLbL41TlIyvYVvW4NtCKWRRIycQTqNKi9aGVGYO0djJFiQKfFK2T95dbULUpzYTl0-LETAwPp3_nwBAXLdSWeKA4pGpKE/s1600/chionodoxaWedgewoodBlue14b.JPG" height="277" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Chionodoxa forbesii</i> 'Wedgewood Blue' with Heuchera 'Prince'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Another very early bloomer is this small patch of Glory-of-the-Snow (<i>Chionodoxa forbesii</i>) 'Wedgewood Blue'. This particular cultivar is an unusual violet blue shade. I have not seen it for sale anywhere - it was sent to me as a free packet of bulbs. If I could find it I would purchase more - the color makes a nice contrast with purple heuchera.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaZTeUd2EZDU9vakd8VXM1pSkR1HMkcpGmtCkWJG31yCKZAVp7-UKVJkcRkhq6CECNbIdzzUhLBU7fQcn6nS2605oDuQGjffkmP7fHFBNEqMPXE9QfkNsc1E-GaxWnD6nKrg05_0O9ucI/s1600/roseGardenApril14l.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaZTeUd2EZDU9vakd8VXM1pSkR1HMkcpGmtCkWJG31yCKZAVp7-UKVJkcRkhq6CECNbIdzzUhLBU7fQcn6nS2605oDuQGjffkmP7fHFBNEqMPXE9QfkNsc1E-GaxWnD6nKrg05_0O9ucI/s1600/roseGardenApril14l.JPG" height="380" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose Garden in early Spring: Pulsatilla and more early bulbs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
On the other side of the Rose Garden a drift of white hyacinth wafts its sweet scent. A purple Pasque Flower (<i>Pulsatilla vulgaris</i>) is one of the first perennials to flower, and some early daffodils ('King Alfred') are even beginning to bloom in this warm spot as well. The branches of the cotinus are still bare, but new foliage growth can be seen on sedum, lamium, and lamb's ears. Summer-blooming allium bulbs have pushed up an amazing amount of spiky growth in a short time.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHtVivOE43iF68sVP9TdeCgbvj9HIIMSM8H2wslCX_x8Q7ezVmbw1gHUmP8yNrQuzSwnV1EOjQJ78wqDgCV0WXoZ_lHkLc7cnZHptGvHluOz27AycjrPkzD09GLKL4lEPyFsobdK3u9MA/s1600/chionodoxaForbesiiPinkGiant14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHtVivOE43iF68sVP9TdeCgbvj9HIIMSM8H2wslCX_x8Q7ezVmbw1gHUmP8yNrQuzSwnV1EOjQJ78wqDgCV0WXoZ_lHkLc7cnZHptGvHluOz27AycjrPkzD09GLKL4lEPyFsobdK3u9MA/s1600/chionodoxaForbesiiPinkGiant14c.JPG" height="316" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Chionodoxa forbesii</i> 'Pink Giant' in April</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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More Glory-of-the-snow are carpeting the floor in the back corner of the Garden. This is <i>Chionodoxa forbesii</i> 'Pink Giant', a plant of delicate pink coloring that I am not able to capture easily on camera. It always ends up looking very washed out in photographs, while in reality it suffuses the area with a soft warm pink glow. The pink color looks nice with the bare red stems of the nearby barberry, with the dark green yew as a background. It also complements the minty green foliage of lamium 'Orchid Frost':<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBW_JJ5Aztz0PKMM5wdXwwbzTXbrwRrGJ-pfXYXkMYACdAWYMk7EbMgigxg3FhOP1MmbYk3bnH6z8LjsXqcSj-6vueMjiuZOmrhyCxeKLbg0r6qI1qnzvhB9S8k1469jDACQaP4Ec4TFk/s1600/chionodoxaForbesiiPinkGiant14b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBW_JJ5Aztz0PKMM5wdXwwbzTXbrwRrGJ-pfXYXkMYACdAWYMk7EbMgigxg3FhOP1MmbYk3bnH6z8LjsXqcSj-6vueMjiuZOmrhyCxeKLbg0r6qI1qnzvhB9S8k1469jDACQaP4Ec4TFk/s1600/chionodoxaForbesiiPinkGiant14b.JPG" height="320" width="250" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Chionodoxa forbesii</i> 'Pink Giant'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
As you can see, the Rose Garden has charm even in early spring, when roses are still nothing but a gleam in the gardener's eye! I love this time of year, but cannot help looking forward to May... which will bring peonies!<br />
<br />spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-34589663502064878752014-11-14T15:08:00.001-06:002014-11-14T15:08:44.425-06:00Fall HighlightsWell, the first snow has fallen and winter has officially arrived! Here is a retrospective of some of this fall's highlights...<br />
<br />
<h4>
September</h4>
Calamint and Sedum are in full bloom on my front entry walk. Nepeta, Heuchera, Hellebores, and a golden Chamaecyparis provide foliage color contrasts as well.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQaM9YEiFT3J-BbmJ4FMHi4b0VMTGdCz7naSBfmlDWTNZdbcS1WNvqHfgHECFacqgtKcSdpgcFnqUwI4_eVh9-rFq5zJmhS1xjIkzMdAatYg0yuI2clpkFH1Gb1YQnnuG0cajaj3BzYY/s1600/DSC07956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQaM9YEiFT3J-BbmJ4FMHi4b0VMTGdCz7naSBfmlDWTNZdbcS1WNvqHfgHECFacqgtKcSdpgcFnqUwI4_eVh9-rFq5zJmhS1xjIkzMdAatYg0yuI2clpkFH1Gb1YQnnuG0cajaj3BzYY/s1600/DSC07956.JPG" height="425" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calamint, Sedum, Heuchera, Chamaecyparis</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My Eglantyne rose continued to bloom well into the fall. It is a monster - I've attempted to strap it to an obelisk here, with perhaps limited success.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlFnVMYyvtnaQ6rLVzZC3F021NrgGDp-uPzB3pm3RYFsXwnFTVblMeQ4ie_WmtjHLnxkCNIRQIItYR7pViGXBZCQz4wVYUCHlobHwLxWfZI-p9tywQyM2A4dNfy3TQZe7b5-rw9mb0oq4/s1600/DSC07963.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlFnVMYyvtnaQ6rLVzZC3F021NrgGDp-uPzB3pm3RYFsXwnFTVblMeQ4ie_WmtjHLnxkCNIRQIItYR7pViGXBZCQz4wVYUCHlobHwLxWfZI-p9tywQyM2A4dNfy3TQZe7b5-rw9mb0oq4/s1600/DSC07963.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Eglantyne' Rose</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I planted some Fall crocus among the galium. Only a few came up, and the bloom was pretty but fleeting - I think they lasted only two or three days. Still, potentially worth it for the brief splash of color.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7-wVsXrp1vp0myrwA4JnXw98_tzekc3cAAS1UqC5Iz9qvWQeuCEoG_NtFBXJleaS0Bm8_z_ps5Hi8J-rQk1p1_y4CsQ6Rfs3XLx_nMa0Az1PjIQOKptdupzjg0e6NPFZy1eCOw4EbAPU/s1600/DSC07972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7-wVsXrp1vp0myrwA4JnXw98_tzekc3cAAS1UqC5Iz9qvWQeuCEoG_NtFBXJleaS0Bm8_z_ps5Hi8J-rQk1p1_y4CsQ6Rfs3XLx_nMa0Az1PjIQOKptdupzjg0e6NPFZy1eCOw4EbAPU/s1600/DSC07972.JPG" height="248" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fall crocus</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My hardy chrysanthemums all miraculously survived last year's brutal winter! Here is 'Mary Stoker', which has a lovely butter yellow color but a somewhat tall, sparse habit. It tends to flop after a rain. I suppose I need to try cutting it back in mid-summer.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjra2RgxmJ1WaUIxk6srRpV4FOLSIXeRdT3U4NyXAIlmgl7a5NPAiYOnVeFt9UKSmF-3u762-v-dIPgJqJHZSkqbH4hbnlGMODl5uVcWkIhB5pmbGqWeAWidswgGqG4dFuXC75kvHUfyS0/s1600/DSC08179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjra2RgxmJ1WaUIxk6srRpV4FOLSIXeRdT3U4NyXAIlmgl7a5NPAiYOnVeFt9UKSmF-3u762-v-dIPgJqJHZSkqbH4hbnlGMODl5uVcWkIhB5pmbGqWeAWidswgGqG4dFuXC75kvHUfyS0/s1600/DSC08179.JPG" height="317" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chrysanthemum 'Mary Stoker'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Here is Chrysanthemum 'Sheffield Yellow', which despite the name is not yellow but a lovely peachy-apricot. I have it growing right next to 'Sheffield', a pink aster which blooms several weeks later.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-UzbVMsFImjd8eFOicLWjhDSuIJKyIihGyW3M5YZvZTuIQAfDglJdysCeEAHko4gdSx6CT9Iw74eo_y_UcT0WMioYU2Dp611WjMNREHTFjC440wTJSLemF3xsYVV8_wlfb6byjOpp5is/s1600/DSC08184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-UzbVMsFImjd8eFOicLWjhDSuIJKyIihGyW3M5YZvZTuIQAfDglJdysCeEAHko4gdSx6CT9Iw74eo_y_UcT0WMioYU2Dp611WjMNREHTFjC440wTJSLemF3xsYVV8_wlfb6byjOpp5is/s1600/DSC08184.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chrysanthemum 'Sheffield Yellow'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My tibetan clematis (Clematis tangutica) blooms throughout most of the summer and well into fall as well. I actually like it in fall best, since the mix of yellow bell-shaped flowers and crazy space poofs makes such a pleasing contrast. This is a very large clematis that is easy to care for and fills out nicely every year. Highly recommended if you have the space.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYu6pTeaKhSbq9zKgVpQW7-HLRtvmgGXZ4JM2aLNNMQAdSYXNTix9jN6GSa23aohs0jB2dR_Y_uJ8xFSCi4CCakPepEB5eRk933ZlIIfP5D3E0zehxDr-SkW8Ei-O907sZGusVN376n8E/s1600/DSC08190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYu6pTeaKhSbq9zKgVpQW7-HLRtvmgGXZ4JM2aLNNMQAdSYXNTix9jN6GSa23aohs0jB2dR_Y_uJ8xFSCi4CCakPepEB5eRk933ZlIIfP5D3E0zehxDr-SkW8Ei-O907sZGusVN376n8E/s1600/DSC08190.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clematis tangutica 'Bill MacKenzie'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h4>
October</h4>
<br />
My quince tree bore fruit for the first time this year! There were only five fruits - not a grand harvest, but still very exciting. It was just enough for one batch of quince cheese (a kind of jelly-like candy). Yum!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI67pvqAxelxzgWdO6ElMyHQ-hEOFv54zNyOkR3szpF_KYLOsySAjYYsA8G6s7HHOwnLNjnrTE44fw6HN7JZAz5ooFJY2AVNgNmyJn5Ho99lx4WxcmH2M1YhFYiOBOsIVZyFgESZwCU3c/s1600/DSC08205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI67pvqAxelxzgWdO6ElMyHQ-hEOFv54zNyOkR3szpF_KYLOsySAjYYsA8G6s7HHOwnLNjnrTE44fw6HN7JZAz5ooFJY2AVNgNmyJn5Ho99lx4WxcmH2M1YhFYiOBOsIVZyFgESZwCU3c/s1600/DSC08205.JPG" height="320" width="246" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quince 'Aromatnaya'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The sedum have now faded to a brick red color. Here they are with Japanese Anemone 'Alice', which is growing in a bit now and put on a grand show this year. Anemones are slow growers but get better year after year. I like 'Alice's big double blooms.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Ff_FJy8f6NtVBywWrPoxtWPR_xOrhz99VgX9xh7sBjhoxiq2fyg0YjVfPD1O9PqE-DuGpTfmTEMD12cJK-inZpOk4JNYtgSDth86-JwhD_1bWY6CQbbCGtO3aUSobphwT6EoWvtibJY/s1600/DSC08206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Ff_FJy8f6NtVBywWrPoxtWPR_xOrhz99VgX9xh7sBjhoxiq2fyg0YjVfPD1O9PqE-DuGpTfmTEMD12cJK-inZpOk4JNYtgSDth86-JwhD_1bWY6CQbbCGtO3aUSobphwT6EoWvtibJY/s1600/DSC08206.JPG" height="400" width="367" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sedum and Anemone 'Alice'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Many plants are starting to show bright fall color. Here is bright orange and scarlet <i>Mukdenia rosii</i>, a cute little woodland plant that is unfortunately rather pricey.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj27jqL3uTTQZo1R9gJja4_XlZpUuzc-7uKBqxPgOITpxHQb5P4Bdp2tDtsuN397xuZBppx_ERwYQVm-uQR-EUDi6y4KXMWyS7Tegs5Hf-3vwN8UCIG2fn4TgW5yO0mGzfDJ0vWgtPzBN8/s1600/DSC08213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj27jqL3uTTQZo1R9gJja4_XlZpUuzc-7uKBqxPgOITpxHQb5P4Bdp2tDtsuN397xuZBppx_ERwYQVm-uQR-EUDi6y4KXMWyS7Tegs5Hf-3vwN8UCIG2fn4TgW5yO0mGzfDJ0vWgtPzBN8/s1600/DSC08213.JPG" height="400" width="341" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mukdenia rossii</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Platycodon (Balloon flower) has attractive yellow foliage in the fall. It makes a nice contrast with the deep blue of Aconitum. The Aconitum gets very tall and floppy, but I'm not sure if cutting back is effective with this plant.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXyWxF9SMjs48_22XxqqNZH8t8WwZvVEcC3KAJ89qjfY-5-D3FyYpgH0knNXAjiTOS62fFG9K5GkF4xzSstakWvw7MP8mjJQFV1GA_34Udl9yXGnw4d3vOWNcvWdu_9W0iAKEPq6FyGXs/s1600/DSC08277.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXyWxF9SMjs48_22XxqqNZH8t8WwZvVEcC3KAJ89qjfY-5-D3FyYpgH0knNXAjiTOS62fFG9K5GkF4xzSstakWvw7MP8mjJQFV1GA_34Udl9yXGnw4d3vOWNcvWdu_9W0iAKEPq6FyGXs/s1600/DSC08277.JPG" height="335" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Aconitum fischeri</i> with <i>Platycodon</i> foliage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Belamcanda is sometimes called Blackberry lily because of its beautiful fall seedheads, which do almost look like blackberries. An attractive plant in all its stages - in flower, leaf, and seed.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUbora7wKmQleUC1vqfPrmEhQtEl9D3k-ysBtpMSFcgzq9527bt6KLusXtVEtJM99gi-uLslhQktpGL1Pt3k5kBX1aHav3I164WfR8IlrUoUUiONUgMmbp37QKiYuHX-RSCTwUV9KRBeE/s1600/DSC08281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUbora7wKmQleUC1vqfPrmEhQtEl9D3k-ysBtpMSFcgzq9527bt6KLusXtVEtJM99gi-uLslhQktpGL1Pt3k5kBX1aHav3I164WfR8IlrUoUUiONUgMmbp37QKiYuHX-RSCTwUV9KRBeE/s1600/DSC08281.JPG" height="400" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Belamcanda chinensis</i> with seedpods</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Not all hostas develop fall color. Some just wither away and die one day with no apparent warning. But 'Blue Angel' always develops these lovely yellow rings that persist for weeks. A classic and one of my favorite hostas overall.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUrkWqSUPPnOsyQGRoyps0OC9GN1NsLQY398qa0aKmh0UAAuxEq4A43iYbhQGguHMNsf4zufZFGOOD1ca7gfPuRfagFog6Ye9xKI9f-kI8WUHZj5BPNmbYG3Gw0Q9irQRZdx-VQyUfV9k/s1600/DSC08285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUrkWqSUPPnOsyQGRoyps0OC9GN1NsLQY398qa0aKmh0UAAuxEq4A43iYbhQGguHMNsf4zufZFGOOD1ca7gfPuRfagFog6Ye9xKI9f-kI8WUHZj5BPNmbYG3Gw0Q9irQRZdx-VQyUfV9k/s1600/DSC08285.JPG" height="276" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hosta 'Blue Angel' displaying fall color</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Most tree peonies do not have much in the way of fall color either. But some cultivars do - it depends. This one - a classic Chinese cultivar called 'Luoyang Hong' (Red of Luoyang) always develops lovely red splotches. This year they were particularly lovely!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCrsbFePIhHox_tI0zfKq7Uwm2zKCFwbVJkUaywp7uY1B0tH2fzapWMqFGNrTbyrVI1yOyoqnHAXvWmamCVqyA_Q79n_U1WvMfRA6Ryibb4LpPb7fRR5D6PS-VxARXCxuNgTNUE5O1NR8/s1600/DSC08293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCrsbFePIhHox_tI0zfKq7Uwm2zKCFwbVJkUaywp7uY1B0tH2fzapWMqFGNrTbyrVI1yOyoqnHAXvWmamCVqyA_Q79n_U1WvMfRA6Ryibb4LpPb7fRR5D6PS-VxARXCxuNgTNUE5O1NR8/s1600/DSC08293.JPG" height="441" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Luoyang Hong' - fall color</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Of course no discussion of fall color is complete without one of these fellows - <i>Amsonia hubrichtii</i>. It truly glows in fall, and makes a lovely textural addition to the garden in other seasons.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji3EmTciHxgtf-fd8-gNWUxzUVzskT_CVIpzHvflO3J2Lw7G5ZLFuBSpFa3CNxoKMjDnbfU7UymzgpHa9nPO8PWezPFFfBPxsv693B9Ztl1nESSoiuYNvLWPc-Q36Dk1NHajTxxdauOGI/s1600/DSC08311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji3EmTciHxgtf-fd8-gNWUxzUVzskT_CVIpzHvflO3J2Lw7G5ZLFuBSpFa3CNxoKMjDnbfU7UymzgpHa9nPO8PWezPFFfBPxsv693B9Ztl1nESSoiuYNvLWPc-Q36Dk1NHajTxxdauOGI/s1600/DSC08311.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Amsonia hubrichtii </i>- fall color</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Finally, I enjoyed this red-on-red combo: Chrysanthemum 'Glowing Ember', a very large and late blooming chrysanthemum, next to the brilliant purplish-ruby foliage of Physocarpus 'Coppertina' (Ninebark).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8idtTng_tEKfTPW3sfi0tH6fcr9fXGXl9YcaFkaGxTv-8n6mmezRlSxSbVMgU_fiQQ_h6OU1-evec9-etZRvBjH2is5JPYkoHZrlmOUs9MB0QXxhXAJ7fYz9Op-Ln6l1zX_c7K8KyExU/s1600/DSC08354.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8idtTng_tEKfTPW3sfi0tH6fcr9fXGXl9YcaFkaGxTv-8n6mmezRlSxSbVMgU_fiQQ_h6OU1-evec9-etZRvBjH2is5JPYkoHZrlmOUs9MB0QXxhXAJ7fYz9Op-Ln6l1zX_c7K8KyExU/s1600/DSC08354.JPG" height="400" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chrysanthemum 'Glowing Ember' and Physocarpus 'Coppertina' in Fall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-59256873354739719842014-06-11T13:19:00.001-05:002014-06-11T13:19:38.981-05:00More PeoniesIt's still peony time here as my mid and late-season herbaceous peonies are blooming!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_iNY9UsrvI-KKULiPw1YoeqqtjA2CJKXk2LPzGhkRZhz23ram4FGuOsWX6QVOfMag4g3uywBQ2-sUbJhT9lDBAJS4NoEnPxGyCisNkLsWZOj1-ze18iZRpi8hEET6qrdwKfSivhsRYb0/s1600/peonyBedJune14d.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_iNY9UsrvI-KKULiPw1YoeqqtjA2CJKXk2LPzGhkRZhz23ram4FGuOsWX6QVOfMag4g3uywBQ2-sUbJhT9lDBAJS4NoEnPxGyCisNkLsWZOj1-ze18iZRpi8hEET6qrdwKfSivhsRYb0/s1600/peonyBedJune14d.JPG" height="465" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peony Bed in June</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This is 'Vivid Rose', a big late season double pink. I just love its intense color and flower form. The blooms are quite heavy but it has pretty strong stems, so overall not as droopy as one might expect. Fragrance is sweet and strong.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggsV4xx-2Im7nN3E0sPT_iEScG1wqhkEphW5MFdut9XxtRZrWEahoDDy6AgI03VRwsux8N7nXbLbxvHRAym_Q_562LJQx8uU2VmkJw_danRAsKZqsEFSF-qNYfWCx4ypeLGqpRsj9TYzU/s1600/vividRose14b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggsV4xx-2Im7nN3E0sPT_iEScG1wqhkEphW5MFdut9XxtRZrWEahoDDy6AgI03VRwsux8N7nXbLbxvHRAym_Q_562LJQx8uU2VmkJw_danRAsKZqsEFSF-qNYfWCx4ypeLGqpRsj9TYzU/s1600/vividRose14b.JPG" height="400" width="398" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peony 'Vivid Rose'</td></tr>
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My 'Myrtle Gentry' is a soft shell pink, also with enormous double blooms of a very soft texture. A bit more floppy than Vivid Rose, but holds up alright with support. This is their third year in my garden, so they are starting to bulk up and put on a nice show this year.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_8cLsXdbuDhEWye6OT8fmmQqkBuR8vlndwtwMooesGmvGystEi05CDNebmWN2-WLTYUeeEeoQkvtkuUqf0hRGDv3OQL_-FjgRSNg6ZI4fuQXrK_zfBDwcjO8gua1kRDOVzVFxkmVyjhc/s1600/myrtleGentry14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_8cLsXdbuDhEWye6OT8fmmQqkBuR8vlndwtwMooesGmvGystEi05CDNebmWN2-WLTYUeeEeoQkvtkuUqf0hRGDv3OQL_-FjgRSNg6ZI4fuQXrK_zfBDwcjO8gua1kRDOVzVFxkmVyjhc/s1600/myrtleGentry14.JPG" height="370" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peony 'Myrtle Gentry'</td></tr>
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I also have an unkown inherited peony, a midseason soft double pink. It has a ring of creamy petals just above the guard petals. It is growing in almost complete shade and I'm amazed that the poor thing blooms at all. Not sure if I should move it or what. It is a sweet old-fashioned flower, but not as fine as some of the newer varieties available IMHO. It is at least 20 years old or more, planted by the original owners of the house.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsGRHoIYRMtj9vkv918uPr9eEoTU7-6a4pma2hh81Xcl3wxU6tqMrqe6hcEpLtaJYHiyQdrczHc8PpXnSaH0se4_O9Awc3TpACor0oprU8_wWhdz7g8jhf2h8z3apRJzJ851hljL5rFNA/s1600/angelCheeksQ14f.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsGRHoIYRMtj9vkv918uPr9eEoTU7-6a4pma2hh81Xcl3wxU6tqMrqe6hcEpLtaJYHiyQdrczHc8PpXnSaH0se4_O9Awc3TpACor0oprU8_wWhdz7g8jhf2h8z3apRJzJ851hljL5rFNA/s1600/angelCheeksQ14f.JPG" height="400" width="346" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unknown midseason pink peony</td></tr>
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Finally, I'm very excited that my intersectional hybrid peony 'Bartzella' is blooming this year for the first time! It has three big stunning blooms, a soft yellow with reddish interior streaks. This is its second year in my garden.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7wg9wx-ynR_8Rk6Ho7n0ldiRg4oUCATbrCyxYzb68y6ailVDlhiBsdmHvDgZIo9p_-0OSrNWAlUoC9q_ecTBtucPR0GfRdGwzRA0WV9v68ecsbP2CjO9AgpzXWcJdsE52JuqbUQQkPwQ/s1600/bartzella14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7wg9wx-ynR_8Rk6Ho7n0ldiRg4oUCATbrCyxYzb68y6ailVDlhiBsdmHvDgZIo9p_-0OSrNWAlUoC9q_ecTBtucPR0GfRdGwzRA0WV9v68ecsbP2CjO9AgpzXWcJdsE52JuqbUQQkPwQ/s1600/bartzella14.JPG" height="350" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Intersectional Hybrid peony 'Bartzella'</td></tr>
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The fragrance of 'Bartzella' is often described as "lemony" in garden books. I don't detect anything remotely similar to lemon, but it does have a soft fragrance that one might describe as herbal. Pleasant and unusual, though not really floral in character at all.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvqdYVQqsPjaQc9uI_qP6YkKHR9PxiMt4Os4bjdQxeskqawRp3om7GJGSw0hcvk6VqLQgI6g6Mu1gXTsz_SR6BP3iXTukpSxuyc3J9nbxpZlr6fWMAbbP1HnglB_Wth8yuH8tiDAZ8udI/s1600/bartzella14e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvqdYVQqsPjaQc9uI_qP6YkKHR9PxiMt4Os4bjdQxeskqawRp3om7GJGSw0hcvk6VqLQgI6g6Mu1gXTsz_SR6BP3iXTukpSxuyc3J9nbxpZlr6fWMAbbP1HnglB_Wth8yuH8tiDAZ8udI/s1600/bartzella14e.JPG" height="640" width="484" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peony 'Bartzella'</td></tr>
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I thought I would like the yellow with the blue iris nearby, but it is the wrong yellow for that, so I will have to move things (the iris, not the peony!). I think it actually looks better with reds and oranges than blues. 'Bartzella' forms a very tidy rounded clump of foliage and looks great all season. In spring the foliage emerges a bronzey-olive. Fades in summer to a fine mid-green.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRqBDAarnIIUtvldoOdSJrAmsMXqU8z7nTEPOmOHD8NwrpThyphenhyphenEhQ_WG9PXVTHDsc2BpDMYvMqVf342dToMwUkzExFP06bSvm4YtQmpNzwwODriLToHS2QLV-l-D0biK-aEIsJUXB20DWo/s1600/bartzellaFoliageMay14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRqBDAarnIIUtvldoOdSJrAmsMXqU8z7nTEPOmOHD8NwrpThyphenhyphenEhQ_WG9PXVTHDsc2BpDMYvMqVf342dToMwUkzExFP06bSvm4YtQmpNzwwODriLToHS2QLV-l-D0biK-aEIsJUXB20DWo/s1600/bartzellaFoliageMay14.JPG" height="252" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peony 'Bartzella' - spring foliage, with tulips (early May)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_-OkhrfbSiKTxcmnZLRhYVLCzfBrIPwrfXPEbP0rg3LnjZN668zX88Esffer4HyliCctNJ8nlnytAaPG-YPOudJC_232mmgyHVZ01iIU-uRH8OLtns5ZvJQdPfwgUdVf8itdGdzR1T1s/s1600/bartzellaFoliageMay14+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_-OkhrfbSiKTxcmnZLRhYVLCzfBrIPwrfXPEbP0rg3LnjZN668zX88Esffer4HyliCctNJ8nlnytAaPG-YPOudJC_232mmgyHVZ01iIU-uRH8OLtns5ZvJQdPfwgUdVf8itdGdzR1T1s/s1600/bartzellaFoliageMay14+(2).JPG" height="397" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peony 'Bartzella' - clump of green foliage in late May</td></tr>
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Intersectional hybrid peonies have foliage and flowers that look like tree peonies, but die back down to the ground in winter like herbaceous peonies. They used to be quite expensive, and new introductions still carry a high price in the first few years. But 'Bartzella' and some others are more widely available now, and the price is very reasonable. Well worth growing!<br />
<br />spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-91204581645421008722014-06-05T14:18:00.000-05:002014-06-05T14:26:28.915-05:00Late Spring Perennial CombosA brief interlude from the peony avalanche... here is an assortment of pleasing combinations of perennials from throughout the garden in late May and early June.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzf5-HQtLQVpCwfj8r8us4S-_JDqF_yYhAGXawYlO-2cjnhDZPSa0-tiCZYkTxKrtMfKcha-DD_nYh6kgVLN4y0pkP02cFjWtjBly3euOMamf6v3A47U4GKE-UHCYfuSEX2PB1da3mZmA/s1600/DSC06983.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzf5-HQtLQVpCwfj8r8us4S-_JDqF_yYhAGXawYlO-2cjnhDZPSa0-tiCZYkTxKrtMfKcha-DD_nYh6kgVLN4y0pkP02cFjWtjBly3euOMamf6v3A47U4GKE-UHCYfuSEX2PB1da3mZmA/s1600/DSC06983.JPG" height="448" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cotinus 'Velvet Cloak' with <i>Euphorbia polychroma</i> and the puffy seedpods of <i>Pulsatilla vulgaris</i></td></tr>
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I love the fabulous foliage of Cotinus 'Velvet Cloak' (Ok so this is technically a shrub...) with <i>Euphorbia polychroma</i> (Cushion Spurge).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYFmy86Aq2NhVq3JX5ulvlar0y2jpO9LhLXS7hzLFRq02CLVZW15KZbYk3qoxaSGQOTxXdcIXMYdnZKUQ_JezjihPnO7SQm8MbhgYcBZT5Q0h8lGq0wBMEWcC_lEAE0_insBng9WBJxxQ/s1600/cotinusEuphorbiaJune14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYFmy86Aq2NhVq3JX5ulvlar0y2jpO9LhLXS7hzLFRq02CLVZW15KZbYk3qoxaSGQOTxXdcIXMYdnZKUQ_JezjihPnO7SQm8MbhgYcBZT5Q0h8lGq0wBMEWcC_lEAE0_insBng9WBJxxQ/s1600/cotinusEuphorbiaJune14.JPG" height="596" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cotinus 'Velvet Cloak' with <i>Euphorbia polychroma</i> (Cushion Spurge)</td></tr>
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The spurge looks splendid with anything strong enough to stand up to it - here with the strongly-colored magenta Geranium 'Patricia'. The spurge bracts are fading, while the geranium is just coming into bloom.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWzgfb9nmfeQuIGP4jTDpB_06vxFfPn0aRBHDYBT_e0t-1x9SCft13-Tzg7fnjgC3cT_hegiwr8wuSzVIXIvkfx26mBhHDc0cuvGtaig8yRywVc7SPznnVMAHSXkZHscuWjzR8bT4eT-A/s1600/euphorbiaGeraniumJune14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWzgfb9nmfeQuIGP4jTDpB_06vxFfPn0aRBHDYBT_e0t-1x9SCft13-Tzg7fnjgC3cT_hegiwr8wuSzVIXIvkfx26mBhHDc0cuvGtaig8yRywVc7SPznnVMAHSXkZHscuWjzR8bT4eT-A/s1600/euphorbiaGeraniumJune14.JPG" height="400" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Euphorbia polychroma</i> (Cushion spurge) with Geranium 'Patricia'</td></tr>
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Ice-blue <i>Amsonia hubrichtii</i> (Bluestar) with bright magenta <i>Geranium sanguineum</i> (Bloody Cranesbill) 'Shepherd's Warning'. I imagine some might object to this rather odd color combo, but I love it. The neat dome of foliage in the background is calamint. The amsonia grows slowly - this is a young plant, still quite small.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIORm3qPJ07vDjffcgoa4LL6xH3EemfP0Gzehvx7Kj64Eqo0P5LYKmFx-AlMRBgCeQOcmFWMHh5YKn-k4JUIuNMZrxAwxuR1enj0kYV3XugTdNBYGAGQ-wDRrsX9utahU8prcP4XpQ25g/s1600/amsoniaHubrichtiiJune14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIORm3qPJ07vDjffcgoa4LL6xH3EemfP0Gzehvx7Kj64Eqo0P5LYKmFx-AlMRBgCeQOcmFWMHh5YKn-k4JUIuNMZrxAwxuR1enj0kYV3XugTdNBYGAGQ-wDRrsX9utahU8prcP4XpQ25g/s1600/amsoniaHubrichtiiJune14.JPG" height="400" width="355" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Amsonia hubrichtii</i> with Geranium sanguineum 'Shepherd's Warning'</td></tr>
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Geraniums light up the garden in their subtle way in late May-June. Here is another: softest pink Geranium 'Biokovo' behind Sedum 'Autumn Fire'.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwN-h3R6fnEU0yGZj8iA2f-gQ2Uwel-h4Fh6wQ7ClgTxdgf5DDejhSz06V3stAeEGoq9LzQ1lFj4pCtHUX5Q2l1uY7AHv1DTZoQQooIx6fXaJMydKcI5VAEiJhEG0I9m-MmXF_9jMVAtQ/s1600/sedumGeraniumBiokovoJune14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwN-h3R6fnEU0yGZj8iA2f-gQ2Uwel-h4Fh6wQ7ClgTxdgf5DDejhSz06V3stAeEGoq9LzQ1lFj4pCtHUX5Q2l1uY7AHv1DTZoQQooIx6fXaJMydKcI5VAEiJhEG0I9m-MmXF_9jMVAtQ/s1600/sedumGeraniumBiokovoJune14.JPG" height="400" width="292" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sedum 'Autumn Fire' with <i>Geranium x cantabrigiense</i> 'Biokovo' in late May</td></tr>
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The intense magenta color of <i>Geranium macrorrhizum</i> 'Bevan's Variety' might not work everywhere. But I do like it in the shady spot under a lilac, behind <i>Thuja occidentalis</i> 'Hetz Midget'. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilMXiGjLPdgSB43c-Igr0ReGTJTNPfH5emu-0dFOxiNoKz4jgMYHmQnyKKNEz9Zm3up2ZKE_jviafRyzVm6Z8jJtMZmD36FsDqKuJ8LguHDWNifgua70-we3sJEXJjzrhYwM_IFQVwMvk/s1600/thujaHetzMidgetJune14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilMXiGjLPdgSB43c-Igr0ReGTJTNPfH5emu-0dFOxiNoKz4jgMYHmQnyKKNEz9Zm3up2ZKE_jviafRyzVm6Z8jJtMZmD36FsDqKuJ8LguHDWNifgua70-we3sJEXJjzrhYwM_IFQVwMvk/s1600/thujaHetzMidgetJune14.JPG" height="420" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Thuja occidentalis</i> 'Hetz Midget' with <i>Geranium macrorrhizu</i>m (Bigroot Geranium) 'Bevan's Variety'</td></tr>
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This is <i>Alchemilla mollis </i>(Lady's Mantle), with as yet unopened buds, and one of my favorite geraniums: purple flowered 'Nimbus' with fine, cutleaf foliage.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBIa9VX4v67EkqExkWtIMUr8omRc5t4K7rhy7rXXo9pLwcd7Vs5i3QFXFM1ZZDY7cNM3_khJBoVSkXX2LMdhg-p0eYMVpZNW_MNK3wN4TAf5NSHZqu_OMRDnqq9Qfik7VR_Fo_89F3eww/s1600/alchemillaGeraniumNimbusJune14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBIa9VX4v67EkqExkWtIMUr8omRc5t4K7rhy7rXXo9pLwcd7Vs5i3QFXFM1ZZDY7cNM3_khJBoVSkXX2LMdhg-p0eYMVpZNW_MNK3wN4TAf5NSHZqu_OMRDnqq9Qfik7VR_Fo_89F3eww/s1600/alchemillaGeraniumNimbusJune14.JPG" height="400" width="391" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Alchemilla mollis</i> (Lady's Mantle) with Geranium 'Nimbus'</td></tr>
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In my shade garden, little bluebells are blooming near the Ostrich Ferns. Some <i>Galium odoratum</i> are still in bloom at their feet.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh07AVFV_G-hrJq_kDyjWmTq7ygvEK-Us0Dfy8ylMuKSvw07ElBX49VlW5CDqbMLdu21rBM27Plb3iZIEYFTzOeiFGJhdO11ueoY9GaYt_lDzxdMKT5YHjA7PqKfwayVhM1GjjPXUr3EI/s1600/bluebellsFernsMay14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh07AVFV_G-hrJq_kDyjWmTq7ygvEK-Us0Dfy8ylMuKSvw07ElBX49VlW5CDqbMLdu21rBM27Plb3iZIEYFTzOeiFGJhdO11ueoY9GaYt_lDzxdMKT5YHjA7PqKfwayVhM1GjjPXUr3EI/s1600/bluebellsFernsMay14.JPG" height="400" width="322" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ostrich fern with Spanish bluebells and <i>Galium odoratum</i></td></tr>
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In this shady spot, blue <i>phlox divaricata </i>perfumes the air while tumbling through a male fern.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf0MgOsoyTMhuN4sZQfL1hzEkeGth_urGfzmRhFy8TaLHBCrkaMJIMSLUQSHAMsTxEI_7dXbX6Z5v05huDIYvKUDiti6lMVqAzQXeAKjJRUAHztIBKYjv-zcxdvP7DMW7HCaWm0JjYHy4/s1600/phloxDivaricataFernMay14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf0MgOsoyTMhuN4sZQfL1hzEkeGth_urGfzmRhFy8TaLHBCrkaMJIMSLUQSHAMsTxEI_7dXbX6Z5v05huDIYvKUDiti6lMVqAzQXeAKjJRUAHztIBKYjv-zcxdvP7DMW7HCaWm0JjYHy4/s1600/phloxDivaricataFernMay14.JPG" height="276" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Phlox divaricata</i> 'Blue Moon' with Male fern</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Another effective shade garden combo is Carex 'Banana Boat' with a brown-burgandy Heuchera, such as this 'Melting Fire'. Nearby companions are Epimedium 'Amber Queen' and Hellebore 'Ivory Prince'.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_DSM6srCtSGI7-SJtHrOAFDs7VEfcI0nSxXPozvDYoW6wNpJp8bxd2hJTdzEvLS3P4urrXsgRhd8xB-tyzxBKSngLZ11FCIbxfs6POf6jusmBVa7-Pr4fzP8_2rjeyAWA5EMi6FxdVh8/s1600/frontShadyMay14v.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_DSM6srCtSGI7-SJtHrOAFDs7VEfcI0nSxXPozvDYoW6wNpJp8bxd2hJTdzEvLS3P4urrXsgRhd8xB-tyzxBKSngLZ11FCIbxfs6POf6jusmBVa7-Pr4fzP8_2rjeyAWA5EMi6FxdVh8/s1600/frontShadyMay14v.JPG" height="449" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carex 'Banana Boat' with Heuchera 'Melting Fire'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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A blue self-seeded Aquilegia (Columbine) complements the yellow leaves of this unknown hosta cultivar.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoVqJZvR7Cc_PcOSUlrYICW2By4UfSIiGFwsqhd6HCgbUIR-sCWJgiOgj2UZtSBOADFqMFlgUXpkoD_rKQT9DfxmNjT9Ey7vB6m_M_tzcbYD29DgmX_qMftve9DCgxf9OWjz8aBZL8Iso/s1600/DSC06776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoVqJZvR7Cc_PcOSUlrYICW2By4UfSIiGFwsqhd6HCgbUIR-sCWJgiOgj2UZtSBOADFqMFlgUXpkoD_rKQT9DfxmNjT9Ey7vB6m_M_tzcbYD29DgmX_qMftve9DCgxf9OWjz8aBZL8Iso/s1600/DSC06776.JPG" height="400" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue columbine with yellow-edged hosta</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Finally, here is a peony for you after all - I love how the hybrid 'Coral Sunset' looks with the blooms of <i>Filipendula hexapetala</i> (Meadowsweet) 'Flore Plena'. The pinky-peach of the meadowsweet buds match the faded color of the peony exactly.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoLWLvjWm_pxht7Ja3PLJDoPBMUj3oqsys7Qq9by-1_vhJLG-f25qTxKWe7dbLidE_Vu2LBXjuQEgyKy4kx2_1o_sUl1L5KWpuWE8F1z82bG57vhCTF-3yGRWxftlyID3wUeyRGDDRUgY/s1600/coralSunset14i.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoLWLvjWm_pxht7Ja3PLJDoPBMUj3oqsys7Qq9by-1_vhJLG-f25qTxKWe7dbLidE_Vu2LBXjuQEgyKy4kx2_1o_sUl1L5KWpuWE8F1z82bG57vhCTF-3yGRWxftlyID3wUeyRGDDRUgY/s1600/coralSunset14i.JPG" height="640" width="521" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peony 'Coral Sunset' with <i>Filipendula hexapetala</i> (Meadowsweet) 'Flore Plena'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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This year it rained heavily just as soon as this peony began blooming, so the blooms did not last as long as usual. The tall stems of the Meadowsweet also bent over awkwardly. I'm not sure how to support this plant - but it looks lovely at any angle.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjusOkuSc1laN2s3j35AYvabl-uyPGiMyOg1SuOze-tM7WoEV8N-q2b0oTEgSadl_kujc4TMI0yXwLiFYa4apMNC_betazawzT8LAOLR-FAv3eiaXd3IdqRVlvB-vUZzZ_UsRtT67a5elc/s1600/filipendulaFlorePlenaJune14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjusOkuSc1laN2s3j35AYvabl-uyPGiMyOg1SuOze-tM7WoEV8N-q2b0oTEgSadl_kujc4TMI0yXwLiFYa4apMNC_betazawzT8LAOLR-FAv3eiaXd3IdqRVlvB-vUZzZ_UsRtT67a5elc/s1600/filipendulaFlorePlenaJune14c.JPG" height="400" width="382" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Filipendula hexapetala</i> (Meadowsweet) 'Flore Plena'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Here is the deep coral color of the peony before it faded in the rain:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFkY7FgDcT_fln4ADeAaTMlcM-oNSdEEkWrwMFg40vRtWhKwYUbrRSa532WDMKR7B_0BWZoDYtHcO7-6SKN8Sdl8v3x9bimY_bMKUXwiUuuwx4ElVNwXJzL_KRJD2fCQNxS6h7J6l3nlc/s1600/coralSunset14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFkY7FgDcT_fln4ADeAaTMlcM-oNSdEEkWrwMFg40vRtWhKwYUbrRSa532WDMKR7B_0BWZoDYtHcO7-6SKN8Sdl8v3x9bimY_bMKUXwiUuuwx4ElVNwXJzL_KRJD2fCQNxS6h7J6l3nlc/s1600/coralSunset14c.JPG" height="378" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peony 'Coral Sunset' - newly opened flower</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-14188700199996018732014-06-03T16:31:00.001-05:002014-06-03T16:31:40.946-05:00Tree Peony 'Toichi Ruby'I encountered this incredibly beautiful tree peony on a recent visit to Olbrich Botanical Gardens.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6SJ-NxZxWNRQCqZ0K_x4jV-vdOAsLOhSTdcIzxIeehOAqkKmBYOoQ7hXjmSC-mCmPTn2rj4LkMGqfceJu7sZX5AtCpnsyKFh7jzgsvEyT-qP5FJp_uqe72Kg2AQBknrVcjF4HB4A5gr4/s1600/toichiRuby14d.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6SJ-NxZxWNRQCqZ0K_x4jV-vdOAsLOhSTdcIzxIeehOAqkKmBYOoQ7hXjmSC-mCmPTn2rj4LkMGqfceJu7sZX5AtCpnsyKFh7jzgsvEyT-qP5FJp_uqe72Kg2AQBknrVcjF4HB4A5gr4/s1600/toichiRuby14d.JPG" height="400" width="376" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Toichi Ruby'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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This is a relatively recent introduction, hybridized by Toichi Domoto and Roy Klehm. The color is just fantastic, and the flower form and presentation on the bush are also excellent. (The color is coming out more pink in the pictures - in real life it appeared to be more of a delicious cherry-pop red.)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBexVSIrM4W3GG75vDQdC256WA6ojE7OrVDwdyv5DU53Irh3PztqQJ7Op4M4K5SSbix8gkthoXFWpOh4A1cLVvmbU7ulk5TR-tC_O_1wcAF0LEIzIJ-GzTC6Ff7w3mYrnexoYKqFGDB2g/s1600/toichiRuby14e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBexVSIrM4W3GG75vDQdC256WA6ojE7OrVDwdyv5DU53Irh3PztqQJ7Op4M4K5SSbix8gkthoXFWpOh4A1cLVvmbU7ulk5TR-tC_O_1wcAF0LEIzIJ-GzTC6Ff7w3mYrnexoYKqFGDB2g/s1600/toichiRuby14e.JPG" height="400" width="357" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Toichi Ruby'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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It appears to be a very profuse bloomer. I'm not sure how old these plants are, but this section of Olbrich has only been installed in the last couple years, so they can't be at full maturity yet. I took about 3000 pictures of it. :-)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-V0AHj45vvMT3uZZ60OzLoneO8jZ61BS_j7LNcKVW2zgS26smcoaeUS4ofKdwTJ7xeSIf-JDdaHC6PGx9PtRA1uRsxn0nWmQKMaNi2B3Uy2ZfhRnK7wV6lYy08jSZHeu-4QkEkE6q2SU/s1600/toichiRuby14f.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-V0AHj45vvMT3uZZ60OzLoneO8jZ61BS_j7LNcKVW2zgS26smcoaeUS4ofKdwTJ7xeSIf-JDdaHC6PGx9PtRA1uRsxn0nWmQKMaNi2B3Uy2ZfhRnK7wV6lYy08jSZHeu-4QkEkE6q2SU/s1600/toichiRuby14f.JPG" height="308" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Toichi Ruby'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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As a bonus, they had a light but very beguiling sweet fragrance, reminiscent of old garden roses. Unusual for what seems to be a (typically scentless) Japanese type of tree peony! I wonder if it has some Chinese/rockii in its blood...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg5CmmF0sjWCz9YrrsgueEU-sLtnwObGlnnuHeIyi3EDU-2tdLewNzw_aDGzrvBHq3sul_8gC2uBpQrBwQQkBlgBsA89vs35BMdP7OrJKWtE_6_svYr2AC_wWIqpB2sRpnkQA6EV0PKbs/s1600/toichiRuby14g.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg5CmmF0sjWCz9YrrsgueEU-sLtnwObGlnnuHeIyi3EDU-2tdLewNzw_aDGzrvBHq3sul_8gC2uBpQrBwQQkBlgBsA89vs35BMdP7OrJKWtE_6_svYr2AC_wWIqpB2sRpnkQA6EV0PKbs/s1600/toichiRuby14g.JPG" height="237" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Toichi Ruby'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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By far my favorite tree peony in Olbrich's collection to date - they have several others (<a href="http://virtualvisitmygarden.blogspot.com/2013/05/japanese-tree-peonies-at-olbrich.html">see my earlier post</a> about them), most in various nauseating shades of mauve. With its strong bright color, 'Toichi Ruby' would have to be placed with care in the garden - but I'd personally be willing to banish anything that clashed to another part of the yard to accommodate this diva!spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-70188746578308442832014-05-30T10:19:00.000-05:002014-05-30T10:19:16.045-05:00Tree Peonies in BloomThe tree peonies have been blooming throughout the past week! Tree peony season is my favorite time of the garden year.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXy9sztjN37x0IjzAD2u0te2w-aHLnUDI8z4pZifBqUp4Qupi-Qmw7LnjLtTnhU4CATu9Us3JP5VLxmfgGdYfbvInscFLgJknI5sccp8pwo2RABQO9r1vThOPBhmiTpjjNQ9lz5hM8JAg/s1600/peonyBedMay14r.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXy9sztjN37x0IjzAD2u0te2w-aHLnUDI8z4pZifBqUp4Qupi-Qmw7LnjLtTnhU4CATu9Us3JP5VLxmfgGdYfbvInscFLgJknI5sccp8pwo2RABQO9r1vThOPBhmiTpjjNQ9lz5hM8JAg/s1600/peonyBedMay14r.JPG" height="640" width="606" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peonies in bloom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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A bit later than usual this year, due to the cool spring I suppose. This is Luoyang Hong (Luoyang Red), a very reliable magenta tree peony.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFLNiL6tvsVAGUpHNj14vxXd0qWoL0rZM-rPogeH_gN4mUsmzF_xLKBLZX5TvJ8MBrAkILnJHiU6yIZWf9DtaxNrqaF4PGlEqr1ysQsOH4zaZmf0mkIl0fKiQ0eiVwYh3n0sU-zMdU6F0/s1600/luoyangHong14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFLNiL6tvsVAGUpHNj14vxXd0qWoL0rZM-rPogeH_gN4mUsmzF_xLKBLZX5TvJ8MBrAkILnJHiU6yIZWf9DtaxNrqaF4PGlEqr1ysQsOH4zaZmf0mkIl0fKiQ0eiVwYh3n0sU-zMdU6F0/s1600/luoyangHong14.JPG" height="281" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Luoyang Hong'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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It is only 5-6 years old this year, but is blooming quite well for a young'un. I believe it had 7 flowers this year.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyfDpxy13cmsUzcmY6g_OqKxP1RNzwoF5No5nIvT0GxAoca8X2hw9Bh1KM9EA4_bcmX_VxMenrNjnwPL4eCEaCdcjLa9r9RUTLS6YJ7WD5X1OI63Yql4srY92Vbm3mJ1GY4ih7JjvpAOk/s1600/luoyangHong14g.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyfDpxy13cmsUzcmY6g_OqKxP1RNzwoF5No5nIvT0GxAoca8X2hw9Bh1KM9EA4_bcmX_VxMenrNjnwPL4eCEaCdcjLa9r9RUTLS6YJ7WD5X1OI63Yql4srY92Vbm3mJ1GY4ih7JjvpAOk/s1600/luoyangHong14g.JPG" height="400" width="280" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Luoyang Hong'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I adore this white tree peony called Xiang Yu (Fragrant Jade). It is fragrant indeed - sweet and strong yet delicate in texture. It is the most fragrant tree peony I have ever encountered.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZufvkdGH1Iq0UVfgTRVIh8PJIvZ7lcik9RHj_TLZm4Ez_MU4vZVZR5hWVR70zDPiQAC-NgJlqIF9os-tP72fIIL7Y5d4w5olqYURinc8gh-Do7z8QHwJeZszkM_4Y2STECG_eJIXkLs/s1600/xiangYu14k.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZufvkdGH1Iq0UVfgTRVIh8PJIvZ7lcik9RHj_TLZm4Ez_MU4vZVZR5hWVR70zDPiQAC-NgJlqIF9os-tP72fIIL7Y5d4w5olqYURinc8gh-Do7z8QHwJeZszkM_4Y2STECG_eJIXkLs/s1600/xiangYu14k.JPG" height="325" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Xiang Yu'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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It is a tall, slender peony with large flowers that get tousled by the wind. It is 5-6 years old this year and had 7 blooms.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC-HrD3K9Vxi9GdwGJgqrigQDkREhTdVZQRtzj7Wfl67pkbhwMypBSoA0YvI8n80HieHx1BwCLJdG1VRDXre4vV30kNHX9S7iRhw62jYXQO3F-cb0SQQNF1xQD8L6SxReRi7G-fmYdxC0/s1600/xiangYu14l.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC-HrD3K9Vxi9GdwGJgqrigQDkREhTdVZQRtzj7Wfl67pkbhwMypBSoA0YvI8n80HieHx1BwCLJdG1VRDXre4vV30kNHX9S7iRhw62jYXQO3F-cb0SQQNF1xQD8L6SxReRi7G-fmYdxC0/s1600/xiangYu14l.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Xiang Yu'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I love its striking red carpels and filaments.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBk-Y9MdWFoa8IcqLMHeJh8re9yujDP4V2FjqwoM2mWvTmNalvfSlPByn0LQcVvI_CC6BGyxBsf4-WLzNnBMPlm-67mktDCcfPqh5FgBAy6Ga2SwDxn0_jk9T5_yzfW_aLOscAxEFZ_YA/s1600/xiangYu14g.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBk-Y9MdWFoa8IcqLMHeJh8re9yujDP4V2FjqwoM2mWvTmNalvfSlPByn0LQcVvI_CC6BGyxBsf4-WLzNnBMPlm-67mktDCcfPqh5FgBAy6Ga2SwDxn0_jk9T5_yzfW_aLOscAxEFZ_YA/s1600/xiangYu14g.JPG" height="313" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Xiang Yu'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
My so-called "black" (really dark maroon-red) tree peony blooms a bit later than the other two in this area. It usually overlaps with them but starts in later. It has not yet opened all its blooms.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVEdWEzy2ieZ9AbGW-Uil2zNoM2ehQEWu1HLkTijKo-44HC4Hu6VxQF4D_ATU6NdAKE10Z3eM3Jbx4wLF8bsiusNsJ6W1gG8WfDp8arKrI7YITaBJtIIYg6RTDTmsyKIrglQ5_EnW-5vQ/s1600/wuJinYaoHui14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVEdWEzy2ieZ9AbGW-Uil2zNoM2ehQEWu1HLkTijKo-44HC4Hu6VxQF4D_ATU6NdAKE10Z3eM3Jbx4wLF8bsiusNsJ6W1gG8WfDp8arKrI7YITaBJtIIYg6RTDTmsyKIrglQ5_EnW-5vQ/s1600/wuJinYaoHui14.JPG" height="400" width="371" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Wu Jin Yao Hui'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The petals of this one have a unique shiny luster. It is difficult to photograph because the color is so dark. "Black" tree peonies are generally slow growing. This one is about 9 years old and has 10 flowers this year. It has an intriguing, musky-sweet fragrance, very "peony" like. This variety has some flowers at the top of the plant, but some buried inside the bush.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0V8nVDFijbSqLB6t2PEoZAiDES5EXm9AtX7DEeI2xAvFq2o0OIFc_4H3epOx9lPy_V74UM21ait6nGBKpWyR6R9vJ34mIG5aFlsytRNLQF8GSauo6Sy9PI3JQnU0vje4n4FX1xJEh2nI/s1600/DSC06818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0V8nVDFijbSqLB6t2PEoZAiDES5EXm9AtX7DEeI2xAvFq2o0OIFc_4H3epOx9lPy_V74UM21ait6nGBKpWyR6R9vJ34mIG5aFlsytRNLQF8GSauo6Sy9PI3JQnU0vje4n4FX1xJEh2nI/s1600/DSC06818.JPG" height="400" width="337" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree peony 'Wu Jin Yao Hui' with Rue, Candytuft, and Lamb's Ears</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I'm very excited that my new Rockii peony bloomed this year. This is its first spring in my garden, so it's a treat to have even one bloom.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTuYcEYW9TBxfdJmsSMExNqtK1xJ_3erYsMzLr5aWehewQwa4utF4fEzEb7iIhnabuzzing2vpbXzXPQrGj3aFkFyR6kO_S4ThKXRwWBj-Xcsm9OjknBErEW_OoUVxcuJ3FfSy_uoSVEs/s1600/paeoniaRockii14b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTuYcEYW9TBxfdJmsSMExNqtK1xJ_3erYsMzLr5aWehewQwa4utF4fEzEb7iIhnabuzzing2vpbXzXPQrGj3aFkFyR6kO_S4ThKXRwWBj-Xcsm9OjknBErEW_OoUVxcuJ3FfSy_uoSVEs/s1600/paeoniaRockii14b.JPG" height="400" width="318" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Paeonia rockii</i> 'Rock's Variety'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Rockii peonies can grow quite large and have many blooms. It has a pleasant, sweet fragrance (although not nearly as strong as Xiang Yu). Aren't those purple blotches fabulous?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgmcPc_ecnjLUBZz8FYrEcTOYXtFxq2sDOWZ1LxY4R6IlULBDmDVi_cseuvOr3lUDFbHPmvJrOPZOeJcBPNErP-1LuaX1ia47QHgo_CL13ziY-CJ73RPWoTt5nO1AI9TgwpbZIBkdhhn8/s1600/paeoniaRockii14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgmcPc_ecnjLUBZz8FYrEcTOYXtFxq2sDOWZ1LxY4R6IlULBDmDVi_cseuvOr3lUDFbHPmvJrOPZOeJcBPNErP-1LuaX1ia47QHgo_CL13ziY-CJ73RPWoTt5nO1AI9TgwpbZIBkdhhn8/s1600/paeoniaRockii14c.JPG" height="400" width="313" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Paeonia rockii</i> 'Rock's Variety'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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My one small disappointment is that my fifth tree peony (a coral-pink variety called Shan Hu Tai, or Coral Terrace) has no buds this year. Bummer! This is its second spring in my garden, and the plant is probably about 4 years old, so I was hoping for a sample flower. But this is not unusual for tree peonies - some do not bloom until they are 5-6 years old. The foliage looks healthy and the plant is growing well, so we'll just have to keep our fingers crossed for next year...spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-70465462708732421822014-05-25T08:18:00.004-05:002014-05-25T08:18:56.715-05:00Chipmunk InterludeI just had to take a break from posting about plants to show you this other little garden feature: Mr. Chipmunk.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5gBk61Q5wVwznaNhWsjRTgfs9X-x2ngOW-e9JdS9R1-y8oNaMNiRk2TekHALW60ttkBREP3FO0qAT4zr84vv_J8NggiOqzgHzjYQ-m0NzpCl9LWjG2YTmh9Vr9z8KU5txebjxMOgn4Hw/s1600/chipmunk14b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5gBk61Q5wVwznaNhWsjRTgfs9X-x2ngOW-e9JdS9R1-y8oNaMNiRk2TekHALW60ttkBREP3FO0qAT4zr84vv_J8NggiOqzgHzjYQ-m0NzpCl9LWjG2YTmh9Vr9z8KU5txebjxMOgn4Hw/s1600/chipmunk14b.JPG" height="321" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chipmunk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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He lives under our house, and is very cute. He is a shy fellow who normally runs away whenever we get near, but I was able to take his picture through the glass door - he probably could not see that I was around through the reflection.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzg9asfOhmOvBTb3Tf0dMfIH_s3RGX5VOQDGiE2XBZlDtSJjx08GkAAPZD0QcIv7wuhBzFDkz2RXnqHkloU3dNaO60-SvRkomuQkw4ml8NTF0Fn0aDVY0wvmP2AIl52vcbGpVdxJXp7wY/s1600/chipmunk14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzg9asfOhmOvBTb3Tf0dMfIH_s3RGX5VOQDGiE2XBZlDtSJjx08GkAAPZD0QcIv7wuhBzFDkz2RXnqHkloU3dNaO60-SvRkomuQkw4ml8NTF0Fn0aDVY0wvmP2AIl52vcbGpVdxJXp7wY/s1600/chipmunk14.JPG" height="323" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chipmunk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
He does dig little holes here and about, and leaves behind little messes of nibbled seedpods after eating, but other than that does no harm that I can see, and besides is too adorable to banish!spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-77426802879385908462014-05-19T16:36:00.001-05:002014-05-19T16:36:24.371-05:00Woodland Wildflowers at OlbrichI took a stroll through Olbrich Botanical Gardens today and the spring-blooming woodland wildflowers were in full bloom. (It was a rather overcast day, so the lighting is a bit gloomy in these shots I'm afraid.)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Jrhx72ijWN2nJMSSFT00rEZttjPG15r3RKJtBMB2UYTqmPgUIxjifgl3wKKo5JK-JqpRfJSC-4xLWx2oadsq5IgEBrFGOJIdsl2S592tAz5zdaESDVDoIVMNNAq_H4y-JUWSoOvLBwM/s1600/mertensiaFerns14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Jrhx72ijWN2nJMSSFT00rEZttjPG15r3RKJtBMB2UYTqmPgUIxjifgl3wKKo5JK-JqpRfJSC-4xLWx2oadsq5IgEBrFGOJIdsl2S592tAz5zdaESDVDoIVMNNAq_H4y-JUWSoOvLBwM/s1600/mertensiaFerns14.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ferns with Virginia Bluebells and Canada Wild Ginger</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<i>Trillium lutea</i> - I personally like this subtly-colored trillium more than the more typical glaring white one. It is quite a sizeable plant as well. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj3WOuzVwqMxNnH4LHBDWCnoZ0QbebnRlxBo02QMDMyjqgthFgox3pePKE96XoySy1WDmKudDc2Uu0LwmLQZPSbzwZBVC6i2DBprDnBYa-tqih_actlOrq3iVlISYxr9O__HEpvjTTWxs/s1600/trillumLutea14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj3WOuzVwqMxNnH4LHBDWCnoZ0QbebnRlxBo02QMDMyjqgthFgox3pePKE96XoySy1WDmKudDc2Uu0LwmLQZPSbzwZBVC6i2DBprDnBYa-tqih_actlOrq3iVlISYxr9O__HEpvjTTWxs/s1600/trillumLutea14.JPG" height="287" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Trillium lutea</i> with ferns and wild ginger</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<i>Mertensia virginica</i> (Virginia Bluebells) here with <i>Stylophorum diphyllum</i> (Celandine Poppy), planted in great sweeps under white birch.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQlbcHrZ5wU3pfwxM-o0ByLSaQFlP5CHjLvE7R5LyaVvkAhoLCHiK2UdyETQHM5NYBWbpSs5JHsHI2wI2iwETPOTD-IiP9k04OEO-RbSDaOhJsElaxuL9be9WP9X8jHklxB2yae-jA8Tk/s1600/mertensiaCelandine14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQlbcHrZ5wU3pfwxM-o0ByLSaQFlP5CHjLvE7R5LyaVvkAhoLCHiK2UdyETQHM5NYBWbpSs5JHsHI2wI2iwETPOTD-IiP9k04OEO-RbSDaOhJsElaxuL9be9WP9X8jHklxB2yae-jA8Tk/s1600/mertensiaCelandine14.JPG" height="640" width="433" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Mertensia virginic</i>a (Virginia Bluebells) and <i>Stylophorum diphyllum</i> (Celandine Poppy)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Wildflowers look best when planted in broad swathes, and Olbrich has the space to do just that. Here is an underplanting of Celandine Poppy, tousled by the spring breeze. I do not have it in my garden, but am given to understand that it is a major spreader (by seed), although perhaps not too difficult to manage.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9Q6-XdYnL3V9R4sZtrk6UMqSsDgzX6pMkkr1A1TgIPT4hcwvkMZPzSUx2fQxAqBzAX4Q9XT7YaqH-wIEW7jXciTCnRX6z4o83HGmIvs7bP2LKD02usi7fzGaRxsfaRNW6Ev6hNP5PBs/s1600/celandine14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9Q6-XdYnL3V9R4sZtrk6UMqSsDgzX6pMkkr1A1TgIPT4hcwvkMZPzSUx2fQxAqBzAX4Q9XT7YaqH-wIEW7jXciTCnRX6z4o83HGmIvs7bP2LKD02usi7fzGaRxsfaRNW6Ev6hNP5PBs/s1600/celandine14.JPG" height="400" width="307" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Stylophorum diphyllum</i> (Celandine Poppy)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<i>Primula veris</i> (Cowslip primrose) looking cute at the foot of a tree, with a hellebore peeking over its shoulder. I like any kind of primrose, but the little wildlings are especially elegant.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipB-nsfveOUQLMNjEcfUhqyRoVnFkue0rh81u2crABokm0ydRFyH7VGtBwsjABtjwVFvYOM_j-i4LViAUABTyPckQA50SVj6H0dko-3Y0Sjg3wwHVL1WS8sy__SCZjw0isasar7vtPu_c/s1600/primulaVeris14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipB-nsfveOUQLMNjEcfUhqyRoVnFkue0rh81u2crABokm0ydRFyH7VGtBwsjABtjwVFvYOM_j-i4LViAUABTyPckQA50SVj6H0dko-3Y0Sjg3wwHVL1WS8sy__SCZjw0isasar7vtPu_c/s1600/primulaVeris14.JPG" height="400" width="315" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Primula veris</i> (Cowslip primrose)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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They had several large fields planted up with little species tulips, grape hyacinths, and daffodils, interspersed with grass. The effect was just lovely - fields of bulbs as far as the eye can see.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPLEmKSTVgKPkj25lMRCR44z7QDaI3NRCV9LKlZjZCs3tqKKlR6rw39f_PRsDAnd-6kxtpUzXdmcHZdQHDUu8Ksm8BXlsGRApFkJOitt9CGET_tsv63obp7oaI20oeg_LUe1YWcAPP8Wg/s1600/olbrichBulbFieldMay14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPLEmKSTVgKPkj25lMRCR44z7QDaI3NRCV9LKlZjZCs3tqKKlR6rw39f_PRsDAnd-6kxtpUzXdmcHZdQHDUu8Ksm8BXlsGRApFkJOitt9CGET_tsv63obp7oaI20oeg_LUe1YWcAPP8Wg/s1600/olbrichBulbFieldMay14.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Field of bulbs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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This old Downy Hawthorne (whose gnarled, twisted branches are being supported in places by wooden posts) is underplanted with what looks like "regular" green brunnera, as well as silver-leaved cultivars. A fine effect as they bloom together. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD-g56VGz5gElP0VNwIUoclDFF3ajT9skEzkUZLLBThvy_ClYapxr_FDHifh9wRqBSXfyH71EWUtT4IY2a3RlVw7WF0U3hPWl5DJjcVyzrZxz6VuQUYU0U3uZ1oD7CLVflZ7nvBXbwzsM/s1600/crataegusMollisMay14+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD-g56VGz5gElP0VNwIUoclDFF3ajT9skEzkUZLLBThvy_ClYapxr_FDHifh9wRqBSXfyH71EWUtT4IY2a3RlVw7WF0U3hPWl5DJjcVyzrZxz6VuQUYU0U3uZ1oD7CLVflZ7nvBXbwzsM/s1600/crataegusMollisMay14+(2).JPG" height="640" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Crataegus mollis</i> (Downy Hawthorne) and Brunnera</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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OK, so these are not exactly "wildflowers" but a fabulous woodland planting nonetheless: epimediums, hostas, daffodils, and astilbe under mature trees.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzzGMjEVlB_bgS2pPqOwsXORUVvhLTJE5vizKkCkW8zflfCc1XNOSXAG6A1D6TgueyN77-TJ0GCCR0Sm8HloLY_v_wxKEHlZAppSu2ti6qv78toUiNq2p7RI7dHCX9kY2-3QbCAFehdVQ/s1600/olbrichShadeGardenMay14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzzGMjEVlB_bgS2pPqOwsXORUVvhLTJE5vizKkCkW8zflfCc1XNOSXAG6A1D6TgueyN77-TJ0GCCR0Sm8HloLY_v_wxKEHlZAppSu2ti6qv78toUiNq2p7RI7dHCX9kY2-3QbCAFehdVQ/s1600/olbrichShadeGardenMay14.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Epimediums, daffodils, hostas, astilbe, allium</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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As usual, Olbrich does not disappoint!<br />
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<br />spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-54153037814447975192014-05-17T09:17:00.002-05:002014-05-17T09:17:42.984-05:00More Tulips, and Their CompanionsI realized that the correct spelling of this lovely orange tulip is 'Prinses (rather than Princess) Irene'. Whatever her name, she is so breathtaking I keep taking more pictures every day.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjayxIfzwvfV1OBrt7sU89hlq7kgz2HAmMVTW1zQOLz7gzuOsE09Qsl9ImdoAyCWMF1FPwxhU_KZtAMagtlKkt4OWMwLOM0jVzUp2RD7gKNno5smPap1wv__QDR0YasEkPFdaDpvEOjX4s/s1600/tulipPrincessIrene14l.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjayxIfzwvfV1OBrt7sU89hlq7kgz2HAmMVTW1zQOLz7gzuOsE09Qsl9ImdoAyCWMF1FPwxhU_KZtAMagtlKkt4OWMwLOM0jVzUp2RD7gKNno5smPap1wv__QDR0YasEkPFdaDpvEOjX4s/s1600/tulipPrincessIrene14l.JPG" height="400" width="376" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tulip 'Prinses Irene' (aka 'Princess Irene')</td></tr>
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The best use for tulips is to highlight nearby companions. I have Irene in two spots in my rose garden: one is in front of a barberry, where the purple streaks of the tulip really pick up the dark barberry leaves.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMMXXsCE_4pJF_L2tLu-lhLW6aLENM4nzcKsYBqN-kcWEJLEo7ULxxF1WFl4m3epBT_vopbSGON0edejRc5Ke38mVXB4uxrxWYZjZ1m7b0CfXh0sV5w3mXvEoP0da5i96EcZ46CtGdw4A/s1600/tulipPrincessIrene14n.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMMXXsCE_4pJF_L2tLu-lhLW6aLENM4nzcKsYBqN-kcWEJLEo7ULxxF1WFl4m3epBT_vopbSGON0edejRc5Ke38mVXB4uxrxWYZjZ1m7b0CfXh0sV5w3mXvEoP0da5i96EcZ46CtGdw4A/s1600/tulipPrincessIrene14n.JPG" height="400" width="321" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tulip 'Prinses Irene' with barberry</td></tr>
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The broader picture has an unruly yew and clematis in the background, with nearby purple flowering lamium under a young silvery leaved quince tree. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw68TqmJtbQnMKcPM6Vgf2Kd13ubD4bz4y9oZC6oC57VfbLTfwR3kDcjxSJ3iLrabTSG4C0fSq0L_4dp276xJ3aBE0GTq9B_pXcYH0k4lhnnjN_NCIJR4PJJ6-W6raTIbzIrkt_mGbgaI/s1600/DSC06321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw68TqmJtbQnMKcPM6Vgf2Kd13ubD4bz4y9oZC6oC57VfbLTfwR3kDcjxSJ3iLrabTSG4C0fSq0L_4dp276xJ3aBE0GTq9B_pXcYH0k4lhnnjN_NCIJR4PJJ6-W6raTIbzIrkt_mGbgaI/s1600/DSC06321.JPG" height="288" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tulip 'Prinses Irene', with barberry, yew, lamium</td></tr>
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The second spot is in a corner near heuchera 'Pinot Gris'.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUVZ2wxzRDSNnJcYCc4XR4RwRqDNay3aecZrY8aX9nNB7wleEnbbIaxt_HLbZt1B9ifmr6aVGEjYVJnZZ-aRlGpjQskmC4fBPb9PZ4UhyphenhyphenKXnW0rOmqLCKPABKJvK_mQ8-IkO81D2FWGn0/s1600/DSC06349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUVZ2wxzRDSNnJcYCc4XR4RwRqDNay3aecZrY8aX9nNB7wleEnbbIaxt_HLbZt1B9ifmr6aVGEjYVJnZZ-aRlGpjQskmC4fBPb9PZ4UhyphenhyphenKXnW0rOmqLCKPABKJvK_mQ8-IkO81D2FWGn0/s1600/DSC06349.JPG" height="340" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tulip 'Prinses Irene' with Heuchera 'Pinot Gris'</td></tr>
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I'm not sure about the color combination on this one - at first I hated it, but now it seems to be growing on me. 'Pinot Gris' is an odd but intriguing color, which I love against green - perhaps my brain is convincing me that anything flatters the Prinses at this point. Here is the combo from a different angle on a rainy day:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRh25hj8n5KtAiboYvNoMx-RkHgiR962KY5FJjCZQdi9WrQUXZm6X1Asz1npjV2os-wXa-ZlZkIQ4e8jsHMN5nWUugLZSTCeYeAd3HfNBO2Q0kmfIx1oKrq_a06We4DKaVBX1UQQqJlKU/s1600/DSC06277.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRh25hj8n5KtAiboYvNoMx-RkHgiR962KY5FJjCZQdi9WrQUXZm6X1Asz1npjV2os-wXa-ZlZkIQ4e8jsHMN5nWUugLZSTCeYeAd3HfNBO2Q0kmfIx1oKrq_a06We4DKaVBX1UQQqJlKU/s1600/DSC06277.JPG" height="263" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corner of the rose garden with tulip 'Prinses Irene', Heuchera 'Pinot Gris', Picea abies 'Little Gem'</td></tr>
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Also blooming now in the rose garden is this little species tulip, <i>tulipa humilis</i> 'Little Beauty'. It is a jewel-toned pink with lovely white and indigo blue interiors. Despite its tiny size, these bright and perky flowers make a big impact in the garden.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBdYkZynajQEt4kdLhQ6KfA_1C-mqT51usVrV5fuuCD4Lel7t154nMWY8lhrWhPjkIjEU8HdhobbD02djZ0PW5dX-VhJVjTlxaFBXSAPMpeqRvSCAFHCOeMebRWtr2yoyFc3_a1ryn2lI/s1600/tulipLittleBeauty14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBdYkZynajQEt4kdLhQ6KfA_1C-mqT51usVrV5fuuCD4Lel7t154nMWY8lhrWhPjkIjEU8HdhobbD02djZ0PW5dX-VhJVjTlxaFBXSAPMpeqRvSCAFHCOeMebRWtr2yoyFc3_a1ryn2lI/s1600/tulipLittleBeauty14c.JPG" height="335" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Tulipa humilis</i> 'Little Beauty' with Lamb's Ears</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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It is next to lamb's ears and a dwarf abies, and overlapped briefly with the tail end of some white hyacinths.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvQVwYQzQ7_pk2vZYE3H2kDXgnbDCWFaX-q-0pFznalpVpQ1gaIi_wiEFQmDe0j9dU_zgri7MGRuAaBWp16KVe7bAtqOxqMXoD3nU3nhPsCqm_5TY1iYaaOPbGyoj-zlxJDVs1flW25ko/s1600/DSC06227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvQVwYQzQ7_pk2vZYE3H2kDXgnbDCWFaX-q-0pFznalpVpQ1gaIi_wiEFQmDe0j9dU_zgri7MGRuAaBWp16KVe7bAtqOxqMXoD3nU3nhPsCqm_5TY1iYaaOPbGyoj-zlxJDVs1flW25ko/s1600/DSC06227.JPG" height="276" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Tulipa humilis</i> 'Little Beauty' with <i>Abies balsamea</i> 'Piccolo', Stachys, and white hyacinth</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I love the color contrast with a nearby euphorbia as well. Only the most stalwart of colors can stand up to that level of chartreuse - 'Little Beauty' can handle it. They are bright and striking even when closed.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge5ApHhU1giDy6RQSaSTWxiftrU09Xc3Eww8ogSWNtWdl2o2_KMPLZ_-kBf-lpYqPjRxpp3T64CWKOOO6LSEqki_AnifV9edf4aeruhlHl7VJvjTF8OIKXfGv2BDi9p8RTT4ZfMnliEpQ/s1600/tulipLittleBeauty14b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge5ApHhU1giDy6RQSaSTWxiftrU09Xc3Eww8ogSWNtWdl2o2_KMPLZ_-kBf-lpYqPjRxpp3T64CWKOOO6LSEqki_AnifV9edf4aeruhlHl7VJvjTF8OIKXfGv2BDi9p8RTT4ZfMnliEpQ/s1600/tulipLittleBeauty14b.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Tulipa humilis</i> 'Little Beauty' with <i>Euphorbia polychroma</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The nearby cotinus is also just beginning to leaf out. The red-burgandy leaves combine beautifully with the tulip. The tulips look a bit like little easter eggs sprouting from the ground.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHrsXZMQX8KfUwozmgY-ujgAowNjt5xuMYNTqJqh9A8y-5JcHTbLaFVTyZBiF4IRvqP47bh5kfpjuLxVLpT8Rn4ndL1Av5dwRKkZV4RkCwrjYa8K1BKI2eNOiTxQ7JdK6GZCNf7Dprgpc/s1600/DSC06347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHrsXZMQX8KfUwozmgY-ujgAowNjt5xuMYNTqJqh9A8y-5JcHTbLaFVTyZBiF4IRvqP47bh5kfpjuLxVLpT8Rn4ndL1Av5dwRKkZV4RkCwrjYa8K1BKI2eNOiTxQ7JdK6GZCNf7Dprgpc/s1600/DSC06347.JPG" height="400" width="322" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tulipa humilis 'Little Beauty', with nearby cotinus, euphorbia, <i>Abies balsamea</i></td></tr>
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This combination of pink and white tulips 'Christmas Marvel' and 'Schoonoord' was supposed to bloom together with pink hyacinths. Naturally, the hyacinths disappeared just as the tulips were coming in, so there was very little overlap.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSIn-AokrLmf1YjYBV7ViAz1f91yc7FMqn6gV8gsOlkBMM99PHuNALXwW3s3NQzJ-hKRIJejm4ToZncyQAk54KvEQSC1gD7-bAY0mKyA1E0qobsWGfcikpzWzgtmiRYNmDHpETf6vWopk/s1600/tulipsSchoonordChristmasMarvel14b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSIn-AokrLmf1YjYBV7ViAz1f91yc7FMqn6gV8gsOlkBMM99PHuNALXwW3s3NQzJ-hKRIJejm4ToZncyQAk54KvEQSC1gD7-bAY0mKyA1E0qobsWGfcikpzWzgtmiRYNmDHpETf6vWopk/s1600/tulipsSchoonordChristmasMarvel14b.JPG" height="400" width="313" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tulips 'Christmas Marvel' (pink) and 'Schoonord' (double white)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Still, the tulips look nice on the bright green background of my currant and gooseberry bushes. 'Schoonoord' is supposed to be a double creamy white, but it is not terribly double compared to other double tulips I have.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOCDHw4Zl5It7AL9uTdq3JdvfIWZAN_gHpnIU_AFYqkHI21vDRxY2VDSK0acIgsoHBX5bxR8-wOzYlvPwFe3Cp7kn6YVEcKmpH-fj-I9msg8UCQQXM0Lc8XDwvp0mRLtnaEao9hSuVAK8/s1600/tulipsSchoonordChristmasMarvel14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOCDHw4Zl5It7AL9uTdq3JdvfIWZAN_gHpnIU_AFYqkHI21vDRxY2VDSK0acIgsoHBX5bxR8-wOzYlvPwFe3Cp7kn6YVEcKmpH-fj-I9msg8UCQQXM0Lc8XDwvp0mRLtnaEao9hSuVAK8/s1600/tulipsSchoonordChristmasMarvel14.JPG" height="400" width="290" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tulips 'Christmas Marvel' and 'Schoonoord'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Finally, a few more shots of 'Abba' in context, because I just can't resist. This is another one I can't stop photographing.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnTnnhJCRYkDmBw9VJzzgZagv478RTtgKpXqhNMbRdEA35qZOc1GSpgStJ2ZGXglezwbFbdCWT8_aueGNoA2wSaxV-jKSkj3GuFc0USz76yUsfK5zyn9l_QBZXj9T_fpdTrTL3qa2E9I0/s1600/DSC06269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnTnnhJCRYkDmBw9VJzzgZagv478RTtgKpXqhNMbRdEA35qZOc1GSpgStJ2ZGXglezwbFbdCWT8_aueGNoA2wSaxV-jKSkj3GuFc0USz76yUsfK5zyn9l_QBZXj9T_fpdTrTL3qa2E9I0/s1600/DSC06269.JPG" height="400" width="310" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double early tulip 'Abba' with Euphorbia 'First Blush', Lamb's Ears, candytuft; in the background are tree peonies and lilies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyP7Aa1lnb9l6___wilK3cZOQoSTX7MaWG6oOHBj1KfseQSUfb5hzHEiz1yK9ibjOpYb7ADR3dUtaW-_T-xDQE7dpJt2iW7AQl5xcC2diy5oYuwwwdx0zUF8kXzVNf2Au1AyUu4IHjRgY/s1600/DSC06231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyP7Aa1lnb9l6___wilK3cZOQoSTX7MaWG6oOHBj1KfseQSUfb5hzHEiz1yK9ibjOpYb7ADR3dUtaW-_T-xDQE7dpJt2iW7AQl5xcC2diy5oYuwwwdx0zUF8kXzVNf2Au1AyUu4IHjRgY/s1600/DSC06231.JPG" height="400" width="361" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double early tulip 'Abba' with Euphorbia 'First Blush' and Lamb's Ears</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-39923207879442771432014-05-12T17:06:00.000-05:002014-05-12T17:06:05.771-05:00Perennializing TulipsDespite the fact that my garden does not bear even the slightest resemblance to the deserts of Turkey, I have actually had some fairly good luck with perennializing certain kinds of tulips.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3eWNVpKtEt-9g0EaG48AqgYtDlcUQW6bWrDQ6jZ4GWnYrK0m7RjAQue8mRsIuZG1RrxAXU3hAa8QpOhPlrfKNLwwaj0sTRvdcQ_eyHBHaT8NuSyyN708JybJmi8Ydyz1JkYX-UxqMbow/s1600/peonyBedMay14i.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3eWNVpKtEt-9g0EaG48AqgYtDlcUQW6bWrDQ6jZ4GWnYrK0m7RjAQue8mRsIuZG1RrxAXU3hAa8QpOhPlrfKNLwwaj0sTRvdcQ_eyHBHaT8NuSyyN708JybJmi8Ydyz1JkYX-UxqMbow/s1600/peonyBedMay14i.JPG" height="536" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tulip 'Abba' in the peony bed, with tree peonies, candytuft, spurge, and lamb's ears</td></tr>
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The best seem to be the doubles, for some reason. This is the third year for this early double tulip 'Abba', and it seems to get stronger and more numerous every year. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip1gi96D6wrC8npfqUpsyuRZugmO9Kvo7UOGoY_5P2wEgfFHtE63WBazRTtv5bT8YEzvDrX816eM6siyD6-qk71weFXbVcEiD09g7Xb8a0bI7BR6ZdcxdMUmCE-AUNAvIKj_56Fk5FiSU/s1600/peonyBedMay14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip1gi96D6wrC8npfqUpsyuRZugmO9Kvo7UOGoY_5P2wEgfFHtE63WBazRTtv5bT8YEzvDrX816eM6siyD6-qk71weFXbVcEiD09g7Xb8a0bI7BR6ZdcxdMUmCE-AUNAvIKj_56Fk5FiSU/s1600/peonyBedMay14.JPG" height="276" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tulip 'Abba', with mugo pine, candytuft, and lily foliage</td></tr>
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I just love the tomato red color, the shaggy-lion shape, and the splash of yellow and black in the interior.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7f1RUySDU5pTjWsQsCV5w0NxM9jCZyTs-Ncs1epzabSvb5Svc2fySZHxPrIMHJvfRRnaLNbJrK9KUK5q1G1jC2b1uLWSNvOIKd5r-5iKPRxRteMuEhf9HZy6_22mRPjFU-SC1r-pNdQ/s1600/tulipAbba14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7f1RUySDU5pTjWsQsCV5w0NxM9jCZyTs-Ncs1epzabSvb5Svc2fySZHxPrIMHJvfRRnaLNbJrK9KUK5q1G1jC2b1uLWSNvOIKd5r-5iKPRxRteMuEhf9HZy6_22mRPjFU-SC1r-pNdQ/s1600/tulipAbba14.JPG" height="400" width="305" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double early tulip 'Abba'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
This double early yellow tulip 'Monte Carlo' has also returned undiminished in its second year. This one is a solid clear yellow, with no interior markings.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZhufZxgQGjFFjE71gmpzAR_-u4NTyeXnEuUB-5Nj29koKSlNrzECREw5GwrkERpysN3NKi2VneF68AyGKf9XiR4ai4K0BG0_DKVksBaN_JjWRi1-XpjNsJjXbSdS24EZj7KdJsAQ8Je4/s1600/tulipMonteCarlo14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZhufZxgQGjFFjE71gmpzAR_-u4NTyeXnEuUB-5Nj29koKSlNrzECREw5GwrkERpysN3NKi2VneF68AyGKf9XiR4ai4K0BG0_DKVksBaN_JjWRi1-XpjNsJjXbSdS24EZj7KdJsAQ8Je4/s1600/tulipMonteCarlo14.JPG" height="400" width="287" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double early tulip 'Monte Carlo'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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It is in a sunny spot in my backyard patio bed, but it's not a spot I keep particularly dry as there are moisture-loving roses, filipendula, and siberian iris nearby. Some may find the intense ball of yellow overwhelming, but I like strong color in spring.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib-qWt1BZShPW51leYEN_-EteoMNjDNMNIN2oxOCwbSCxtRVdg32OMeJExH6u9MhVb9a0ZRbp9v4iRZetFicy0tkWCBvzyC2y1T6-rFvZCoCNFb_wqWJnR3FyllYjuGhHVPF8-Nl7hPEY/s1600/patioBedMay14j.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib-qWt1BZShPW51leYEN_-EteoMNjDNMNIN2oxOCwbSCxtRVdg32OMeJExH6u9MhVb9a0ZRbp9v4iRZetFicy0tkWCBvzyC2y1T6-rFvZCoCNFb_wqWJnR3FyllYjuGhHVPF8-Nl7hPEY/s1600/patioBedMay14j.JPG" height="371" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tulip 'Monte Carlo', with siberian iris and filipendula</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Another good returner is this fosteriana tulip aptly named 'Juan'. It has large, flamboyant red-orange blooms with yellow interiors, and fantastic purple-mottled foliage. The flowers fan out into a lovely star shape when open to the sun, and roll tightly closed on overcast days.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSaACASMxZ6LovODKBX85XLPDlNp89BjSKheF_onb72UvZlwLDx26USTeHYZFIlS8GpSFbyXkcdEdR_ndNUx8FZTLcVHYjw4K9oJ3xvY0QUvmaITnfNK_dRb5qutyLRkVH45y9-qI9Dzo/s1600/tulipJuan14b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSaACASMxZ6LovODKBX85XLPDlNp89BjSKheF_onb72UvZlwLDx26USTeHYZFIlS8GpSFbyXkcdEdR_ndNUx8FZTLcVHYjw4K9oJ3xvY0QUvmaITnfNK_dRb5qutyLRkVH45y9-qI9Dzo/s1600/tulipJuan14b.JPG" height="400" width="286" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fosteriana tulip 'Juan'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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These are actually in a part shade location at the bottom of a slope - quite possibly the worst location for a tulip - but have returned nicely. For some reason the squirrels seem to enjoy lopping off their heads periodically.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhew0D2kSPFJr2tPEKHrjj9USmefSWwnldRZSefctnHLwA7PT1ZE5vXEd36IJcaBl2mH_5m6GyyUpn7hZQhzYRlaYLBfW8HItjnbOc6sFoh0MJZImWcY6EFlcaOgIGKeTgQVvxzeeKSJrc/s1600/tulipJuan14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhew0D2kSPFJr2tPEKHrjj9USmefSWwnldRZSefctnHLwA7PT1ZE5vXEd36IJcaBl2mH_5m6GyyUpn7hZQhzYRlaYLBfW8HItjnbOc6sFoh0MJZImWcY6EFlcaOgIGKeTgQVvxzeeKSJrc/s1600/tulipJuan14.JPG" height="280" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fosteriana tulip 'Juan' with Hypericum (St. John's Wort)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I have some "plain old tulip" tulips along the front of the house, in a narrow west-facing crevice between the front walk and the building, which are in perhaps the hottest, sunniest, driest spot in my yard. They predate both me and the previous owner of the house, and have been blooming every May like clockwork for at least ten years. These are the only ones I have in truly tulip-friendly conditions.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ugjSM4YDuD5BXW9cNqaB7j47wfMegFyArJ6df6y8PqnI7d9TrQpROun0lnPJOQeyX8cYhzo-5_FWVUrIfauHAQlHCC-U1B3S9oLXf6U_Kt6l_DbgT_ojDdT6_twq3t5i_ajNEU2d-oY/s1600/tulipRed14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ugjSM4YDuD5BXW9cNqaB7j47wfMegFyArJ6df6y8PqnI7d9TrQpROun0lnPJOQeyX8cYhzo-5_FWVUrIfauHAQlHCC-U1B3S9oLXf6U_Kt6l_DbgT_ojDdT6_twq3t5i_ajNEU2d-oY/s1600/tulipRed14c.JPG" height="400" width="311" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unindentified red tulips</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
I haven't been as lucky with every tulip I've planted. The single early tulip 'Purple Prince', planted in the same spot as 'Monte Carlo', put on a disappointing show in its second year, with only a few scattered bulbs returning. It is a lovely tulip though - the mauvey-purple shade is just perfect with the spring green of fresh foliage. In my book, worth replanting periodically to keep it going. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM0vJ9Rs51nAtOAF-U_H42LKuisLlDpatU0aCVq7lZ3JLyI-hDbq0i3pMNh_kb-jfuJFQpBq8yzbbgUBYPGt7HPS41KeDYQA5WHcfwGulrV_1FPfe-Xn0BNq9M4XG4-c105UtY9N00n6g/s1600/patioBedMay14f.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM0vJ9Rs51nAtOAF-U_H42LKuisLlDpatU0aCVq7lZ3JLyI-hDbq0i3pMNh_kb-jfuJFQpBq8yzbbgUBYPGt7HPS41KeDYQA5WHcfwGulrV_1FPfe-Xn0BNq9M4XG4-c105UtY9N00n6g/s1600/patioBedMay14f.JPG" height="301" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Patio bed with tulips 'Monte Carlo' and 'Purple Prince'. Last year there were twice as many purples as yellows - most of the purples failed to return.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Tulip 'Sweetheart' returned somewhat from last year, but noticeably diminished. I planted more of these last year, thank goodness, or there would be only 1-2 total. Again, its delicate loveliness earns it a spot in my garden, even as a semi-annual.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUisUaP7yivMW3tRaIlyR9LDPWHHNAZNUme6EUxj_-AQ-YmgsV6Wi3i7xn_MqGJBFzZ9Zp60UHaA8L0bh_k-aU4NARgTFD00zNR4oVm2cEuvgwmxRjJ6TBwsOA8ykWwtlQq1waViYws30/s1600/DSC05992.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUisUaP7yivMW3tRaIlyR9LDPWHHNAZNUme6EUxj_-AQ-YmgsV6Wi3i7xn_MqGJBFzZ9Zp60UHaA8L0bh_k-aU4NARgTFD00zNR4oVm2cEuvgwmxRjJ6TBwsOA8ykWwtlQq1waViYws30/s1600/DSC05992.JPG" height="400" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tulip 'Sweetheart' with narcissus 'Katie Heath', tree peony and geraniums</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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New this year is tulip 'Princess Irene', a well-known classic. I certainly hope she returns, because she is a stunner for sure! I will do my best to keep her hot and dry. She is next to a barberry, so hopefully that should not be too hard.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWhtEkTYyWuYFxxlW1m-yrk0gKsJTzQGeeK2hk_yI_NE4z2NcOZqZZavyUvQIRn89CaTAmaZEutKLeIMwY4JHtJW7flzggxfCB_1QLC7XlLHj1DtfZyeYu45wPDAqCP-MtC7jqhsZhNp4/s1600/tulipPrincessIrene14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWhtEkTYyWuYFxxlW1m-yrk0gKsJTzQGeeK2hk_yI_NE4z2NcOZqZZavyUvQIRn89CaTAmaZEutKLeIMwY4JHtJW7flzggxfCB_1QLC7XlLHj1DtfZyeYu45wPDAqCP-MtC7jqhsZhNp4/s1600/tulipPrincessIrene14.JPG" height="400" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tulip 'Princess Irene' with purple barberry</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Have any particular kind of tulips perennialized well in your garden?spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-38171960135460621562014-05-04T17:37:00.001-05:002014-05-04T17:37:18.718-05:00Early Spring FlowersIt's early days yet in this chilly, slow spring, and spring bulbs continue to dominate the landscape.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhgQ7Jo5l-lUArJJZGeTylDdFFBqofbGOwy6m4hUiBKkd3kDCOd21GjNrSiWyWjQZNI6_nq5UjJwFUIETh9hhptg1hVcCeaJD-08R3ElRGN34334Y4EM32n8QA_ivBkFXOOFP-t5gk_M/s1600/patioBedMay14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhgQ7Jo5l-lUArJJZGeTylDdFFBqofbGOwy6m4hUiBKkd3kDCOd21GjNrSiWyWjQZNI6_nq5UjJwFUIETh9hhptg1hVcCeaJD-08R3ElRGN34334Y4EM32n8QA_ivBkFXOOFP-t5gk_M/s1600/patioBedMay14c.JPG" height="312" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Patio bed in early May: Narcissus and a few early tulips coming along</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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But a few very early blooming perennials are starting to wake up. Here is Erythronium 'Pagoda', the dog's tooth violet. This is its first year in my garden, and I am hoping it will be happy and increase over time. It's an elegant, delicate flower.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEEYbsJBB4I0wFeyIlDIpTPCqjeUFE5UdDPEoiK9kFugG3t6isRx3W3iWUvY7zvbqr9sVVQm4pO4hI6XYnV4K52VcnYs8Ic49YPWTmamF2ADssuPFJ1bcOmqnP3NQQR6d8M_BrhzikZZE/s1600/erythroniumPagoda14d.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEEYbsJBB4I0wFeyIlDIpTPCqjeUFE5UdDPEoiK9kFugG3t6isRx3W3iWUvY7zvbqr9sVVQm4pO4hI6XYnV4K52VcnYs8Ic49YPWTmamF2ADssuPFJ1bcOmqnP3NQQR6d8M_BrhzikZZE/s1600/erythroniumPagoda14d.JPG" height="358" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Erythronium </i>(Dog's Tooth Violet) 'Pagoda'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<i>Anemonella thalictroides</i> (bloodroot) is also in full bloom now. A gardener could easily miss this tiny wildflower if she steps past it too quickly, but close inspection is rewarding. The plant blooms very early and then goes dormant in early summer.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt6Iyd0Hpw7BEN0N8hLhp5-HS6kMUY2Da3Dfzid99xuBGhzM6wFmhjjfDqn_rCthhPODyExfLx_WJ-spbbEq4ArN4qnvbGK5uQAMI5QJ5fxpD4QqVizMcpuhglQ7IOxm4kraTLJc7alN0/s1600/anemonellaThalictroides14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt6Iyd0Hpw7BEN0N8hLhp5-HS6kMUY2Da3Dfzid99xuBGhzM6wFmhjjfDqn_rCthhPODyExfLx_WJ-spbbEq4ArN4qnvbGK5uQAMI5QJ5fxpD4QqVizMcpuhglQ7IOxm4kraTLJc7alN0/s1600/anemonellaThalictroides14c.JPG" height="335" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Anemonella thalictroides</i> (Bloodroot)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ug4FNh6jLgK40tfGWa96tgZeXhvW2NhAZ9ANL7Hm4qjXc-W_GA1SR_XY23_elhgLLlKetCGu4J9aSYFwoDunExw4S52l88qSgF2Ys7xmbIGKC_FE6_ZKh8pK8xMyUArmJ-ArR66joAQ/s1600/anemonellaThalictroides14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ug4FNh6jLgK40tfGWa96tgZeXhvW2NhAZ9ANL7Hm4qjXc-W_GA1SR_XY23_elhgLLlKetCGu4J9aSYFwoDunExw4S52l88qSgF2Ys7xmbIGKC_FE6_ZKh8pK8xMyUArmJ-ArR66joAQ/s1600/anemonellaThalictroides14.JPG" height="323" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Closeup of <i>Anemonella thalictroides</i> (Bloodroot)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Several hellebores, stalwarts of the early garden, are looking fine. My favorite so far is 'Ivory Prince'. It has gorgeously silver veined blue-green foliage, which complements the red stems and pink and cream flowers just perfectly.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYFX1bZ5JY5228ENmEaq8Mdi-hzk7jbcz_1ZckP0nRdaxw6Pi1eugl_JGFZkQjFv5FsMrDaA-7bhx6nVufCGz-EBy9Ukz77BOcDYqOLsUZIi-_E9zrNoDcuXF-M5wHb-nNo9HM3kIHXpQ/s1600/helleboreIvoryPrince14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYFX1bZ5JY5228ENmEaq8Mdi-hzk7jbcz_1ZckP0nRdaxw6Pi1eugl_JGFZkQjFv5FsMrDaA-7bhx6nVufCGz-EBy9Ukz77BOcDYqOLsUZIi-_E9zrNoDcuXF-M5wHb-nNo9HM3kIHXpQ/s1600/helleboreIvoryPrince14c.JPG" height="397" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Helleborus x ericsmithii</i> 'Ivory Prince'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<i>Helleborus x nigercors</i> 'Valentine Green' is just beginning to bloom. The flowers are so far more of a pale cream than green.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipjojFTEPjz3amZCsmNhsoyZ5zOfKdGFkEM7JjDCktWmsEySQa9XJnCsQBEdId4PGNWz2xJfiO1hGLo0p06fPZfBjeoqKGYalbR5cJddR6GskRyOvs6jLFxjlQBThM9xWVWBI_bRI-nb4/s1600/helleboreXNigercorsValentineGreenMay14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipjojFTEPjz3amZCsmNhsoyZ5zOfKdGFkEM7JjDCktWmsEySQa9XJnCsQBEdId4PGNWz2xJfiO1hGLo0p06fPZfBjeoqKGYalbR5cJddR6GskRyOvs6jLFxjlQBThM9xWVWBI_bRI-nb4/s1600/helleboreXNigercorsValentineGreenMay14.JPG" height="400" width="387" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Helleborus x nigercors</i> 'Valentine Green'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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This unknown double orientalis type of hellebore (might possibly be 'Sparkling Diamond', but not sure) was the earliest to begin blooming. It should continue for another few weeks at least.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPrpPfghacgUQ9GQlrfA5gsfdTcegjsfT7raD7jJEPfuzc9MsKwPSyen4OmqTmOs4INR4D7nRRXB8_2rhpUwYRCoUGdAkaQGmKZvXi4Mta0rYzdfR4-vW85zdC3G-aB8dh17Qtux5RPdk/s1600/helleboreSparklingDiamondMay14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPrpPfghacgUQ9GQlrfA5gsfdTcegjsfT7raD7jJEPfuzc9MsKwPSyen4OmqTmOs4INR4D7nRRXB8_2rhpUwYRCoUGdAkaQGmKZvXi4Mta0rYzdfR4-vW85zdC3G-aB8dh17Qtux5RPdk/s1600/helleboreSparklingDiamondMay14.JPG" height="400" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hellebore, possibly 'Sparkling Diamond'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<i>Pulsatilla vulgaris</i> (Pasque Flower) is another very early bloomer to light up the spring. This is a pale purple one.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrlnlESWIcYqdakaVMufUa1R6jaNZfHCjS_NCxJCoVBhuXvVF6-y4fi1AafEFf9SSV5flPIhvfFQaiTIXRmUOszXwfmOrcFitGI-K-IgNRL5lD15OZTYSoe3pqde4OHkhRkAWmzn7ynbE/s1600/pulsatillaVulgarisApril14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrlnlESWIcYqdakaVMufUa1R6jaNZfHCjS_NCxJCoVBhuXvVF6-y4fi1AafEFf9SSV5flPIhvfFQaiTIXRmUOszXwfmOrcFitGI-K-IgNRL5lD15OZTYSoe3pqde4OHkhRkAWmzn7ynbE/s1600/pulsatillaVulgarisApril14.JPG" height="387" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Pulsatilla vulgaris</i> (Pasque Flower)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Finally, the earliest of my shrubs to bloom is the haskap. I've seen plenty of big, fat bees buzzing around it - hopefully they are pollinizing it well!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF5_W9NEmB2kUQN2Mfj7ZaH_fUvozzdcryeRVxEIos6joK6gu1sHTl-DcrEW_h22-ObvICNkQb7CtoOXP0VsOCPOnqPyZ-sGkt4iGghyUJlUIYoWjDo3BnlQKdS1GaUS8AdOCcG9QfK7o/s1600/haskapPollinizerMay14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF5_W9NEmB2kUQN2Mfj7ZaH_fUvozzdcryeRVxEIos6joK6gu1sHTl-DcrEW_h22-ObvICNkQb7CtoOXP0VsOCPOnqPyZ-sGkt4iGghyUJlUIYoWjDo3BnlQKdS1GaUS8AdOCcG9QfK7o/s1600/haskapPollinizerMay14.JPG" height="400" width="328" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Haskap (Honeyberry)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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It's been a very slow spring - ordinarily most of these flowers would be in April rather than May. Hopefully everything else won't start blooming at once!<br />
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<br />spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-70932013980955207562014-04-28T09:35:00.000-05:002014-04-28T09:35:21.473-05:00End of April ViewsSpring is here - the fresh green foliage of perennials begins to cover the ground, and bulbs are flowering in the spaces between the leaves.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib7N1cG2biOZIWZtZE9CepHsz0qOx4bYAFuODptv8gXb4vDo-gq8o-ai68qUdG0EYgwaaRsMdHmKYhGLeNo2Dq51UinNb9B1nxe7ulSccPFo0KI5SKwQXoqKNNDWaVwO2e4r477QQqiiE/s1600/frontShadyApril14f.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib7N1cG2biOZIWZtZE9CepHsz0qOx4bYAFuODptv8gXb4vDo-gq8o-ai68qUdG0EYgwaaRsMdHmKYhGLeNo2Dq51UinNb9B1nxe7ulSccPFo0KI5SKwQXoqKNNDWaVwO2e4r477QQqiiE/s1600/frontShadyApril14f.JPG" height="400" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daffodils blooming near the bare stems of Japanese Maple 'Coonara Pygmy'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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In my shade garden right now, there are lots of bright yellow daffodils. I thought it was a bit TOO much yellow, so added this cheery pink fuchsia in a pot for a bit of contrast. Pink and yellow is not usually a color combo on my favorites list, but with the right shade of strong pink I think it can work.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRS0dY5eZgywTfa8g747GukDCz9eL9et-l-lJJW92aMYEQsWXRauPZc9xAENcZT5rr9Nh6dnzg78V61GcHiwSLaJyCS3AFJVT9dJ2LCKH3pDrudgUOlxJ19FvEQbqmmtZlxpgoJwdmZXM/s1600/frontShadyApril14g.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRS0dY5eZgywTfa8g747GukDCz9eL9et-l-lJJW92aMYEQsWXRauPZc9xAENcZT5rr9Nh6dnzg78V61GcHiwSLaJyCS3AFJVT9dJ2LCKH3pDrudgUOlxJ19FvEQbqmmtZlxpgoJwdmZXM/s1600/frontShadyApril14g.JPG" height="400" width="317" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Narcissus 'Ice Follies', 'King Alfred', 'Peeping Tom', and 'February Gold' with boxwood and fuchsia</td></tr>
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Here is a corner of my rose garden. The cotinus in this spot has not begun to leaf out yet, but the ground beneath is alive with daffodils, hyacinths, and this purple pasque flower.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_76SH-qwN6S_SeB-MQ159UUMJKeC_RP2rb56GPHwKmYPRZpwkymNMSQ4JSol9fgKXHLbjZTcgztT9_BxDKYjsyOyIl5354FGly9m81SfD6Js7Za-AhqLqVZO62oDTvtu3HwYOfqEEwI/s1600/roseGardenApril14k.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_76SH-qwN6S_SeB-MQ159UUMJKeC_RP2rb56GPHwKmYPRZpwkymNMSQ4JSol9fgKXHLbjZTcgztT9_BxDKYjsyOyIl5354FGly9m81SfD6Js7Za-AhqLqVZO62oDTvtu3HwYOfqEEwI/s1600/roseGardenApril14k.JPG" height="312" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Pulsatilla vulgaris</i> (Pasque flower) with Narcissus 'King Alfred' and Hyacinth 'Aiolos'</td></tr>
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Another view looking out from the rose garden to the sidewalk. The roses are just beginning to show signs of growth. At their feet the Dutch crocus are still blooming, joined by scilla from across the way.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJ-1Cksc_7copAS37Ces23EsGjmF0gDmx-NZmvT7OdMGWhXKNKOHN2fhyg1UTrpGgu7kQZY15IstZs2gD10SPI-KW_0YUeQboqByid9JLVkilT34LwpsirZKwZzH8ni81Ld9ZL7dolak/s1600/roseGardenApril14j.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJ-1Cksc_7copAS37Ces23EsGjmF0gDmx-NZmvT7OdMGWhXKNKOHN2fhyg1UTrpGgu7kQZY15IstZs2gD10SPI-KW_0YUeQboqByid9JLVkilT34LwpsirZKwZzH8ni81Ld9ZL7dolak/s1600/roseGardenApril14j.JPG" height="323" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Crocus vernus </i>'Yellow Mammoth' and <i>Scilla siberica</i> 'Spring Beauty' blooming in the rose garden.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I am still in the process of planting up the narrow terrace area (sidewalk strip) seen in the picture above, which is under an ash tree. So far I've added heuchera, alchemilla, geranium, and bergenia, plus scilla, chionodoxa, and daffodils. Some epimediums and hellebores will be added this spring. There are also plenty of weeds as you can see from the photo! I am quite pleased with the bright blue scilla next to the red-purple heuchera though - an unusual and striking color combo.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiXT1m0Gw4D2dT0G11_ryRsOagxPBKkzWJZUgz-TgIQHDnff4gBnqTxvRk60M4LRfEewpXVvMLxLtja0Y5cLer4ZZssIaTP7j9Jdea9uG5I0M-qlblHrvOabfZVF3PTBwL9aLnb_tyyCQ/s1600/ashTerraceApril14e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiXT1m0Gw4D2dT0G11_ryRsOagxPBKkzWJZUgz-TgIQHDnff4gBnqTxvRk60M4LRfEewpXVvMLxLtja0Y5cLer4ZZssIaTP7j9Jdea9uG5I0M-qlblHrvOabfZVF3PTBwL9aLnb_tyyCQ/s1600/ashTerraceApril14e.JPG" height="243" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scilla siberica 'Spring Beauty' with Heuchera 'Prince'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Here is my front entry border. Geraniums, sedums, catmint, calamint, tulips, and alliums are greening up. (Actually the allium foliage is already starting to turn brown!) I have the same purple heuchera in this area as well. The yellow centers of daffodil 'Ice Follies' reflect the bright foliage of the golden chamaecyparis. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBLFk-mfXlZbBwO9BTNIUwOoMIFAULW9N7bHa6MOAwWo3j3DuZbsm70MtIBqXpt8Aln4iWCt-LNPZaDjfmAj5g5v8qVIFBGKpgJ7_gP6gU4kLdIdCJllFGzb7KDnL0YlDruRSjbcwnOpA/s1600/entryBorderApril14f.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBLFk-mfXlZbBwO9BTNIUwOoMIFAULW9N7bHa6MOAwWo3j3DuZbsm70MtIBqXpt8Aln4iWCt-LNPZaDjfmAj5g5v8qVIFBGKpgJ7_gP6gU4kLdIdCJllFGzb7KDnL0YlDruRSjbcwnOpA/s1600/entryBorderApril14f.JPG" height="260" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Narcissus 'Ice Follies' with Heuchera 'Prince' and <i>Chamaecyparis pisifera aurea nana</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The "orchard" area under my fruit trees is also bright with early daffodils now. The new foliage of their companion <i>tanacetum vulgare</i> 'Isla Gold' really glows when it emerges. You can see the patch of garlic growing tall in the background. It's amazing how early garlic begins to grow!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGEdbKhQQnbLXvmz9xFcmt8eAp8-p3aHYNJSo0GKHwiaiD14HrvQlPv_i-EmDHBGcEFa9CyjUMTL0QsOJ4zf3SzPiP2B3rUJ2psSqHVeJ1PW-LQkFrR5dWDRTmHFVKm5t62Ye16d4iH-8/s1600/orchardApril14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGEdbKhQQnbLXvmz9xFcmt8eAp8-p3aHYNJSo0GKHwiaiD14HrvQlPv_i-EmDHBGcEFa9CyjUMTL0QsOJ4zf3SzPiP2B3rUJ2psSqHVeJ1PW-LQkFrR5dWDRTmHFVKm5t62Ye16d4iH-8/s1600/orchardApril14c.JPG" height="376" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Narcissus 'Rijnveld's Early Sensation' and 'Ice Follies' with <i>Tanacetum vulgare</i> 'Isla Gold'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Now we are in for a stretch of chilly, rainy weather. The garden may take a breather before surging ahead into its next phase of growth.<br />
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<br />spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-35062268835221829382014-04-20T15:16:00.000-05:002014-04-20T15:16:15.954-05:00Second Wave of BulbsA second wave of bulbs is washing over my garden as spring really starts to get in gear.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOLY4DkdEANCKYnvDYVG2nwyjWDiVvKE-e1WwNTkGa5TKtNGfK597ltJDmt0au2Bvefk_xx92zY0gyeR44GAv7kJ_fPhOBA0EJdpIaMLifYjbQn4ohE2H93VmJiZk_J0YKqyqoD8Os-XI/s1600/peonyBedApril14j.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOLY4DkdEANCKYnvDYVG2nwyjWDiVvKE-e1WwNTkGa5TKtNGfK597ltJDmt0au2Bvefk_xx92zY0gyeR44GAv7kJ_fPhOBA0EJdpIaMLifYjbQn4ohE2H93VmJiZk_J0YKqyqoD8Os-XI/s1600/peonyBedApril14j.JPG" height="341" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early spring bulbs (crocus, chionodoxa, narcissus, scilla)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<i>Crocus vernus</i> 'Yellow Mammoth' is blooming in my rose garden. The roses are a mess as I haven't given them their spring pruning yet, but it might be a bit early as they haven't shown signs of growth yet.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX_9ZRO8iQjyqenYF02UnHkVid21SZLpdgkTs8f9TnmQHeuOgbRiFdO1HdNOCjYcUQ5vK0yP5wzHE13nfV2ZKnqZG4TV8Mn2pa8zyB86r7Sdnt9dbdARu0EU8EDP7mw9jdbNrUAOIIOWI/s1600/roseGardenApril14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX_9ZRO8iQjyqenYF02UnHkVid21SZLpdgkTs8f9TnmQHeuOgbRiFdO1HdNOCjYcUQ5vK0yP5wzHE13nfV2ZKnqZG4TV8Mn2pa8zyB86r7Sdnt9dbdARu0EU8EDP7mw9jdbNrUAOIIOWI/s1600/roseGardenApril14c.JPG" height="282" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Crocus vernus</i> 'Yellow Mammoth'</td></tr>
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I've sprinkled the gorgeous dark blue <i>Scilla siberica</i> 'Spring Beauty' throughout my beds. Hopefully they will eventually spread to make a thick carpet of blue in spring.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiURmP227UKfpWMdNbkhbMszA-nf1oZmzz1cdUS-h_kNZv3RTMb-FtQyNc9gXtY4zArBGZExgE0_0633mcf6OHPtNykMyYEb11UdamPiwBUvva-dCmNPgzE2t9WoOxNY0J_fH5i30lgo8/s1600/scillaSiberica14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiURmP227UKfpWMdNbkhbMszA-nf1oZmzz1cdUS-h_kNZv3RTMb-FtQyNc9gXtY4zArBGZExgE0_0633mcf6OHPtNykMyYEb11UdamPiwBUvva-dCmNPgzE2t9WoOxNY0J_fH5i30lgo8/s1600/scillaSiberica14.JPG" height="400" width="286" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Scilla siberica</i> 'Spring Beauty'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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A somewhat rare glory of the snow, <i>chionodoxa gigantea alba</i>, has begun opening in this shady corner. I'm enjoying the simple purity of its all-white flowers.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmZdzx2g6PTJt2gDdTep81W78jK1KPFh2nNJoa5VC23Jh4zWTuOMaXxMU3Kr6KpRyTtniycISra9u29kaO21LekFpQ7gyb-iyBgPcGW3yr-0ttSYq0WKjcHaAL_i8hGZ11LuJ32J6FjrQ/s1600/chionodoxaGiganteaAlba14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmZdzx2g6PTJt2gDdTep81W78jK1KPFh2nNJoa5VC23Jh4zWTuOMaXxMU3Kr6KpRyTtniycISra9u29kaO21LekFpQ7gyb-iyBgPcGW3yr-0ttSYq0WKjcHaAL_i8hGZ11LuJ32J6FjrQ/s1600/chionodoxaGiganteaAlba14c.JPG" height="400" width="345" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Chionodoxa gigantea alba</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The more well-known <i>Chionodoxa forbesii</i> 'Pink Giant' is still going strong. It has begun to naturalize among the still-bare barberry stems. The pink does not really harmonize with the strong yellows, purples, and blues in my garden right now, but it's tucked somewhat inconspicuously into a corner so it doesn't bother me TOO much.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF5iZEmvjQ_kyijoNwdjEKRyJLrHlszcrcsGxK-ysBeIzw_vMvvhe2XPmGJ48sluYZMP3li-pypk1jgB_AiVnk77FXnmKd9iHuve4yVqSWKEXTwBivvgkvGwuanFlhFbOYiCbugd14H1U/s1600/chionodoxaPinkGiant14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF5iZEmvjQ_kyijoNwdjEKRyJLrHlszcrcsGxK-ysBeIzw_vMvvhe2XPmGJ48sluYZMP3li-pypk1jgB_AiVnk77FXnmKd9iHuve4yVqSWKEXTwBivvgkvGwuanFlhFbOYiCbugd14H1U/s1600/chionodoxaPinkGiant14c.JPG" height="332" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Chionodoxa forbesii</i> 'Pink Giant' with barberry</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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As are the <i>Puschkinia</i>. These are wonderfully long flowering for a "little" bulb. Here they are next to the soft fuzzy new leaves of Geranium wlassovianum.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4wM7TmmbATgvUXbXjsdjzgItAzkSFFoiXZyI-hy-UGtoXKYRdjX1fhQc_lWukEWP2IdDuUOZOsNlCESgB4dWIleWjy6_IFiJWM3jW76gKtbXeKTnmnrz8XzifRJY3RxyKrDyNbL1_2iU/s1600/puschkiniaAlba14e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4wM7TmmbATgvUXbXjsdjzgItAzkSFFoiXZyI-hy-UGtoXKYRdjX1fhQc_lWukEWP2IdDuUOZOsNlCESgB4dWIleWjy6_IFiJWM3jW76gKtbXeKTnmnrz8XzifRJY3RxyKrDyNbL1_2iU/s1600/puschkiniaAlba14e.JPG" height="307" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Puschkinia libanotica alba</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The very early daffodil variety 'Rijnveld's Early Sensation' is now at its peak. This is a very "ordinary" looking daffodil, but its extremely early bloom time makes it special.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3DHibHyV7q4amKDZXk8xwFEaOp_VCE8XmmQoQBn2mv0JxOLXUgBkzi5IHywc40y04FMZOoFI4cs6mmW0vcP1f_kMmFirnq_MyyO2z8y_rS7s7HSMO6NlGzImKJxhOnwJQ4MXEL1NhseY/s1600/narcissusRijnvelds14e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3DHibHyV7q4amKDZXk8xwFEaOp_VCE8XmmQoQBn2mv0JxOLXUgBkzi5IHywc40y04FMZOoFI4cs6mmW0vcP1f_kMmFirnq_MyyO2z8y_rS7s7HSMO6NlGzImKJxhOnwJQ4MXEL1NhseY/s1600/narcissusRijnvelds14e.JPG" height="320" width="280" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Narcissus 'Rijnveld's Early Sensation'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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It is growing in my "orchard" under the fruit trees, behind the patio area.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJjkLJB8pLd_9QZBaLbRdBi1Hks5d_L-Ii6zsGh0UYl1aVmEdw4fczt1nfahlPXukdWkHtemwXGS82Ik4CxTAEknGjDhbR17POelWNVB4yd99jaBFlCy7U-RZXJOO9Mcw_WGP3Ruj4DAw/s1600/patioBedOrchardApril14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJjkLJB8pLd_9QZBaLbRdBi1Hks5d_L-Ii6zsGh0UYl1aVmEdw4fczt1nfahlPXukdWkHtemwXGS82Ik4CxTAEknGjDhbR17POelWNVB4yd99jaBFlCy7U-RZXJOO9Mcw_WGP3Ruj4DAw/s1600/patioBedOrchardApril14.JPG" height="395" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blooming in backgroud: Narcissus 'Rijnveld's Early Sensation'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Teensy 'Tete-a-tete', another ultra early daffodil variety, has started popping too. It's a cutie!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpmPRKkv3EewG8vM3U-RaURcfbQXQlw0hqvkyLZyXKurVUDNqJdawPRBklktMhvBSWOX-fEfsTt1JAkuln2aYeo-PRmuoyDJ0nSgu1YRkC8eRI6ir9KDTUpZtu33K6Zdko5LssgZAWnE/s1600/narcissusTeteATete14b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpmPRKkv3EewG8vM3U-RaURcfbQXQlw0hqvkyLZyXKurVUDNqJdawPRBklktMhvBSWOX-fEfsTt1JAkuln2aYeo-PRmuoyDJ0nSgu1YRkC8eRI6ir9KDTUpZtu33K6Zdko5LssgZAWnE/s1600/narcissusTeteATete14b.JPG" height="320" width="229" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miniature narcissus 'Tete-a-Tete'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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A few bulbs of 'Ice Follies' have also begun blooming. This patch of bulbs is blooming earlier than the others, because they're in a warm spot right by the house. The rest of my "early" daffodils are still waiting in the wings, but should start opening over the next week or so.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvJKqKBYmcTo3YiMJl1HYSmVsVKaIBg61l5psqDZKAtpC2LbLDQYcCx8kdFsrjpm6gifmrZt-ea78y9oCn7I-PIb3tumvoTL_3oEL8ZvKaZ-DYWb738ZsWTqIerEx1Rq4aAB8gp8KQI4c/s1600/narcissusIceFollies14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvJKqKBYmcTo3YiMJl1HYSmVsVKaIBg61l5psqDZKAtpC2LbLDQYcCx8kdFsrjpm6gifmrZt-ea78y9oCn7I-PIb3tumvoTL_3oEL8ZvKaZ-DYWb738ZsWTqIerEx1Rq4aAB8gp8KQI4c/s1600/narcissusIceFollies14c.JPG" height="307" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Narcissus 'Ice Follies'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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This mystery hellebore, which may or may not be 'Sparkling Diamond', is also joining in the show.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Aa59h2NXlxWs35E-L-IIVfFVdpa7oIw6hVanV6iLhFX1jzNQKkRjcmccZRZ7rutcaKxZ6eh9JYxr6vGrg6XD40h4-bwnOEXY41O1VTq4lbRn2kRbljBQE8ci0Q3Ivh1tw3pP2xLhlwc/s1600/helleboreSparklingDiamond14d.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Aa59h2NXlxWs35E-L-IIVfFVdpa7oIw6hVanV6iLhFX1jzNQKkRjcmccZRZ7rutcaKxZ6eh9JYxr6vGrg6XD40h4-bwnOEXY41O1VTq4lbRn2kRbljBQE8ci0Q3Ivh1tw3pP2xLhlwc/s1600/helleboreSparklingDiamond14d.JPG" height="400" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Helleborus orientalis</i>, possibly 'Sparkling Diamond'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Some perennials are finally starting to wake up as well. It's so exciting to go outside every day and hunt for new things - a new leaf here, a shoot pushing through the ground there. Hurray for spring!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqgNzsIqfugPeIyn-rlZrVx5AneLFnY-d2wQU_yqVBmy31ENBN9h6WBx_JBNfgRrf6RgBNHobCWinO7xZfJDktzQbFH1svxRXpBOK7IY8GMZqn5GflbJC5dRDGldkjSSHcXhafHSEn5dE/s1600/geraniumWlassovianumEmerging14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqgNzsIqfugPeIyn-rlZrVx5AneLFnY-d2wQU_yqVBmy31ENBN9h6WBx_JBNfgRrf6RgBNHobCWinO7xZfJDktzQbFH1svxRXpBOK7IY8GMZqn5GflbJC5dRDGldkjSSHcXhafHSEn5dE/s1600/geraniumWlassovianumEmerging14.JPG" height="285" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emerging foliage of <i>Geranium wlassovianum</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-46418340573476832942014-04-12T17:44:00.000-05:002014-04-12T17:44:13.271-05:00Early Splash of ColorSpring has finally arrived, and my eyes revel in the sudden bursts of color that appear overnight.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNwZMWEL_woIHR5t9GrqVay9K4ZFgyRTiwYcwiaPETBcGe5EOe6_ZRL089jTYkdXQITXG3UdktuPKfJwW4zcwu-sChDxYMTWAGbaM0rLl1hfjYRvgPNumPZSH4snABkgwrxtbXAulY7eQ/s1600/peonyBedApril14h.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNwZMWEL_woIHR5t9GrqVay9K4ZFgyRTiwYcwiaPETBcGe5EOe6_ZRL089jTYkdXQITXG3UdktuPKfJwW4zcwu-sChDxYMTWAGbaM0rLl1hfjYRvgPNumPZSH4snABkgwrxtbXAulY7eQ/s1600/peonyBedApril14h.JPG" height="400" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Puschkinia libanotica alba</i> and <i>Iris reticulata</i> with bergenia foliage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Winter aconites (<i>eranthis hyemalis</i>) are the first to bloom. They will pop out of the earth as soon as even a small patch of snow is melted, while it seems that the ground must still be frozen. You have to know where to look for them to find them, but it's exhiliarating at that time of the year to see anything growing outside. In 2014 they bloomed on March 18, and by early April are already fading.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh58jj8hVbfwMwLGPPTEcAWX4E-I4U6pHXyHjGOKZirSqPO0X7w36plUI-uNYuMTrOVHAzDcPipT6TiOKCiXclNDvU_JSGRWjYYlChZ3351TBCw7UHtTz9zxVKXg0mLoWroeOm_UL-KnP8/s1600/eranthisHyemalisMarch14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh58jj8hVbfwMwLGPPTEcAWX4E-I4U6pHXyHjGOKZirSqPO0X7w36plUI-uNYuMTrOVHAzDcPipT6TiOKCiXclNDvU_JSGRWjYYlChZ3351TBCw7UHtTz9zxVKXg0mLoWroeOm_UL-KnP8/s1600/eranthisHyemalisMarch14.JPG" height="264" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Eranthis hyemalis </i>(Winter aconite)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Snowdrops follow soon in their footseps. These simple, elegant bulbs are much appreciated by humans and pollinators in this time of flower scarcity.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JB4UrXzPw5zi3xfehOsf8Bsu_TWuzwQTvE1w4hyphenhyphenK5uBSVp0QT2DXeyzBGXbe8WgzRpIvD7pSSSsFTHXJvpw0yIqJF55_kdcwUKA5ThbNcQayEXyR6IChGpSh9rY1O5piffraieD6-b8/s1600/galanthusElwesiiApril14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JB4UrXzPw5zi3xfehOsf8Bsu_TWuzwQTvE1w4hyphenhyphenK5uBSVp0QT2DXeyzBGXbe8WgzRpIvD7pSSSsFTHXJvpw0yIqJF55_kdcwUKA5ThbNcQayEXyR6IChGpSh9rY1O5piffraieD6-b8/s1600/galanthusElwesiiApril14.JPG" height="322" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Galanthus elwesii </i>(giant snowdrop) in March</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Next in the race are the species crocus, such as <i>crocus tommasinianus</i> (tommies). These little fellows are spread with surprising vigor - this is the second year of this planting and they have at least tripled in number. The warm rosey-purple really catches the soft spring light.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKd0X0XlFQqAbNlbg4hEvfvRMclMf_5ZET8lpEoFyTrNZtEX-dK3ti1RG6kkkiPe_6B5iT2Z9uXkNh_ulqGYcNHvAyNale7HmcZo8-pG0LRhyphenhyphenTHwxRO2sDn1MEQdK2fAVoesXLOzlcU4o/s1600/crocusTommasinianusRubyGiant14d.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKd0X0XlFQqAbNlbg4hEvfvRMclMf_5ZET8lpEoFyTrNZtEX-dK3ti1RG6kkkiPe_6B5iT2Z9uXkNh_ulqGYcNHvAyNale7HmcZo8-pG0LRhyphenhyphenTHwxRO2sDn1MEQdK2fAVoesXLOzlcU4o/s1600/crocusTommasinianusRubyGiant14d.JPG" height="270" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Crocus tommasinianus</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Tiny delicate rock garden iris, like this<i> iris reticulata</i>, are not far behind the crocus. I love the blue color and elegant shape of the blooms. They also have a fantastic sweet fragrance! It doesn't carry and you will have to get right down on the ground and stick your face in them to smell it - an rewarding activity at this time of year.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijT-fEsbAkpjT_GWSxPb29vQKZXH0OoAVXgjj4ENCSi3AouRUPMe0h-Im-sGVA69jw6TW-vaD5toh-OJR3sVBTwOjB5vGIGrfq-C2ebWLCqnq_ioyHcqQTMmlTFMk6TgtFJkM-_HVX-Zc/s1600/irisReticulataClairette14c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijT-fEsbAkpjT_GWSxPb29vQKZXH0OoAVXgjj4ENCSi3AouRUPMe0h-Im-sGVA69jw6TW-vaD5toh-OJR3sVBTwOjB5vGIGrfq-C2ebWLCqnq_ioyHcqQTMmlTFMk6TgtFJkM-_HVX-Zc/s1600/irisReticulataClairette14c.JPG" height="320" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Iris reticulata</i> 'Clairette'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Large dutch crocus bloom a bit later than the small species types. They come in intense colors like deep purple and bright yellow.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB1RCValpwX20nbibqePCUO21yUydGZ_IsMtRFuc0nlRadDPga7WrCfNiWSZQsV3Wry9-nZMmq1Fp2YMD7qmzNp-CCaU24kkch8JKKTMmO-jWPZnel8pyz9EAq9yaeEVqy4lh5k2fdQSg/s1600/crocusVernusFlowerRecord14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB1RCValpwX20nbibqePCUO21yUydGZ_IsMtRFuc0nlRadDPga7WrCfNiWSZQsV3Wry9-nZMmq1Fp2YMD7qmzNp-CCaU24kkch8JKKTMmO-jWPZnel8pyz9EAq9yaeEVqy4lh5k2fdQSg/s1600/crocusVernusFlowerRecord14.JPG" height="320" width="257" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Crocus vernus</i> (Dutch crocus) 'Flower Record'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Puschkinia (Striped squill) are also beginning to bloom at this time. I have two types: the classic pale china blue <i>Puschkinia libanotica</i>, and the pure white form <i>Puschkinia libanotica alba</i>. The ruffly, feminine flowers make a fine contribution to the early spring garden, and they grow and increase easily.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4XPkgnVAfUymYgPo4uLSArA44LWEGd8keHtQSdmqADJPlLuGDhOKon9EVNB9ugXvr7KRkaCS7wNBzYmb31a-DvKLN_yeYFYzs-DEifCZgJO7DKUmIWm8eHlx1_V1qUP55wxzCcr87rWo/s1600/puschkiniaLibanotica14b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4XPkgnVAfUymYgPo4uLSArA44LWEGd8keHtQSdmqADJPlLuGDhOKon9EVNB9ugXvr7KRkaCS7wNBzYmb31a-DvKLN_yeYFYzs-DEifCZgJO7DKUmIWm8eHlx1_V1qUP55wxzCcr87rWo/s1600/puschkiniaLibanotica14b.JPG" height="400" width="366" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Puschkinia libanotica</i> with the teensy dwarf evergreen <i>Tsuga diversifolia</i> 'Loowit'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrmmFhsD8CFr0NsR3IUGFMvyoXNPaIDQQ6SMT9IVDuXXNnJ2iV47Mx5d2x-35y-WTMxXpGKqtcNU5a3e36G8r-LGxsQtJ66NCzShHJK_QF-qd2kpMNlO3I8xUw5FFUyvs-B9Qyd5FHEi0/s1600/puschkiniaAlba14b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrmmFhsD8CFr0NsR3IUGFMvyoXNPaIDQQ6SMT9IVDuXXNnJ2iV47Mx5d2x-35y-WTMxXpGKqtcNU5a3e36G8r-LGxsQtJ66NCzShHJK_QF-qd2kpMNlO3I8xUw5FFUyvs-B9Qyd5FHEi0/s1600/puschkiniaAlba14b.JPG" height="277" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Puschkinia libanotica alba</i> with bergenia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Chionodoxa (Glory of the Snow) has also started in. I have the pink-flowered form planted among some lamium underneath my quince tree.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvFDK7ArTs6I9LcNVSnpFNBQDpqmFcFE8QebTEtfz_5joiq0dE-s-FBFiC6ky-kuBmAF-z6TxoUGrOre4hDMr8uNwZZsZAHiXl2vZ-3NwC2JW5-9gHpVRtQtek6bWBnNEooVPoecsCr-s/s1600/chionodoxaForbesiiPinkGiant14b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvFDK7ArTs6I9LcNVSnpFNBQDpqmFcFE8QebTEtfz_5joiq0dE-s-FBFiC6ky-kuBmAF-z6TxoUGrOre4hDMr8uNwZZsZAHiXl2vZ-3NwC2JW5-9gHpVRtQtek6bWBnNEooVPoecsCr-s/s1600/chionodoxaForbesiiPinkGiant14b.JPG" height="400" width="312" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Chionodoxa forbesii</i> 'Pink Giant'</td></tr>
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Finally, I have a daffodil blooming already! It's an ultra early variety called "Rijnveld's Early Sensation", and it is certainly sensationally early. It is short of stature, but the blooms are large and cheery. I have lots of other daffodils coming up, but this is by far the quickest to bloom.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq_cmQFJVyDRH4zNzpEo50gQioQ7bIPGksvJEzWygUdB2gVDEexAbYmhhk7M_coQuoywuZysf8fUC4e1uQRbE9PCs1bBIl2tDZCwl8wCJ6l7_f01AGtCNDFmWZmTDpaHykCUN0qVYiR9M/s1600/narcissusRijnvelds14b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq_cmQFJVyDRH4zNzpEo50gQioQ7bIPGksvJEzWygUdB2gVDEexAbYmhhk7M_coQuoywuZysf8fUC4e1uQRbE9PCs1bBIl2tDZCwl8wCJ6l7_f01AGtCNDFmWZmTDpaHykCUN0qVYiR9M/s1600/narcissusRijnvelds14b.JPG" height="320" width="248" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Narcissus 'Rijnveld's Early Sensation'</td></tr>
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Here is a view of my peony bed, which later will be filled to bursting with glorious tree peonies, lilies, and iris. Now it looks almost bare with nothing but a few scattered bulbs. Still, this first flash of color may be my favorite time of year, for the color is so precious now, and the earth is full of promise. Can you see the red new growth on the peonies?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU88AkSP5xnDlfBCAdRfm6iXN8YncOeDckISHrr2j5whc8XkL7Xi2FkbzpSzGo-lEzw-b7Mvj0DDExbYMwz9RUYHSddzY1IT_uQh7XdhVkmAy7WtFN7xnbj3aMJ5OFduV4lbnKWiXjo24/s1600/peonyBedApril14g.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU88AkSP5xnDlfBCAdRfm6iXN8YncOeDckISHrr2j5whc8XkL7Xi2FkbzpSzGo-lEzw-b7Mvj0DDExbYMwz9RUYHSddzY1IT_uQh7XdhVkmAy7WtFN7xnbj3aMJ5OFduV4lbnKWiXjo24/s1600/peonyBedApril14g.JPG" height="392" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peony bed in early April</td></tr>
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<br />spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-77664641168884303272014-03-23T15:00:00.000-05:002014-03-23T15:00:12.899-05:00Chrysanthemum ChorusIn an effort to add more flower power to my fall garden, I added several new hardy chrysanthemum varieties last year.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgASGGKH-KDg03ZcrRuntTkL8rmz2ulGqy9Zclp9LluBpdTz7YZYmEgnX7iZ2vJtv99EZMwFNx6Wr6XzPW42QKRIw43s-WgfdDa73g3ozd3EUaXE34RqTFfdfcAOQMCKRWLd5sIXQQ3yF4/s1600/chrysanthemumGlowingEmber13d.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgASGGKH-KDg03ZcrRuntTkL8rmz2ulGqy9Zclp9LluBpdTz7YZYmEgnX7iZ2vJtv99EZMwFNx6Wr6XzPW42QKRIw43s-WgfdDa73g3ozd3EUaXE34RqTFfdfcAOQMCKRWLd5sIXQQ3yF4/s1600/chrysanthemumGlowingEmber13d.JPG" height="400" width="333" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chrysanthemum 'Glowing Ember'</td></tr>
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These are all (*supposedly*) true perennial chrysanthemum types that really are winter hardy and will return for many years. Of course we have to take any claims about chrysanthemums with a grain (or bucket) of salt, so we'll see.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-68PFNMy21wUStS-iS5-qJ-mjeDcvov94SqNtC6rtt6TlpvPY1XZRorFPW_f4MIhLhJiWBmsIwd1Aj-pF-4xs1rvMwD65kQJyyXJj7THwxoCweUpx0jrysFGZeWenk099FvXjxFBzPjU/s1600/chrysanthemumSheffieldOct13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-68PFNMy21wUStS-iS5-qJ-mjeDcvov94SqNtC6rtt6TlpvPY1XZRorFPW_f4MIhLhJiWBmsIwd1Aj-pF-4xs1rvMwD65kQJyyXJj7THwxoCweUpx0jrysFGZeWenk099FvXjxFBzPjU/s1600/chrysanthemumSheffieldOct13.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chrysanthemum 'Sheffield'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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In this, their first year of bloom, all were small and sparse, but they flowered nicely and did liven up the fall.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfzZvbg9MgzLo1toPMvUYneOG9rexK0kzic3ECrN2oqd1VS_e73TQMH892KP6BvxpQ_eI43CNw5OsHILKyyXjIkfoYgNjyXlOtuJl_sIduVjimUsx1ZDH-UGC7geVI3nXJfKZH47WdmTA/s1600/chrysanthemumGlowingEmber13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfzZvbg9MgzLo1toPMvUYneOG9rexK0kzic3ECrN2oqd1VS_e73TQMH892KP6BvxpQ_eI43CNw5OsHILKyyXjIkfoYgNjyXlOtuJl_sIduVjimUsx1ZDH-UGC7geVI3nXJfKZH47WdmTA/s1600/chrysanthemumGlowingEmber13.JPG" height="400" width="312" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chrysanthemum 'Glowing Ember' with foliage of Ninebark 'Coppertina' behind</td></tr>
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Of course, I could also add some fall asters. I do love the flowers - especially the blues! But I have a zero tolerance policy for yucky mildewy foliage, and am also not thrilled with the idea of digging and dividing those suckers every other year. Hopefully the hardy chrysanths will fill the gap.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2vjmdoqItdaPQ7aqcaUf5rDG-jEV_HAUT3SgIV4Dt32dsFGi1XZClnqUGw_lTNFymDgkHOosXAlloJCwUowNY7egyoPkHrNPFMnamsA3VhFrPQ5BtlEcZnq7hvLBxY9UNSwu76Ozp4cU/s1600/chrysanthemumMammothLavender13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2vjmdoqItdaPQ7aqcaUf5rDG-jEV_HAUT3SgIV4Dt32dsFGi1XZClnqUGw_lTNFymDgkHOosXAlloJCwUowNY7egyoPkHrNPFMnamsA3VhFrPQ5BtlEcZnq7hvLBxY9UNSwu76Ozp4cU/s1600/chrysanthemumMammothLavender13.JPG" height="335" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chrysanthemum 'Mammoth Lavender'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I was mightily impressed by <u><b>'Mammoth Lavender'</b></u>, which, despite not being the 'Mammoth Coral' that I had actually ordered, had REALLY huge flowers and bloomed profusely for what seemed like forever, from early September to late October! It was truly a stunner in the garden. Now watch this be the one that doesn't pull through the winter...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrQ5Yh_Er-pW27iLQydbwRNKpNOPUURp3TmTCPtARqObOblAFzy0tOrAaaP-onDq-24k2WIgFffPS8DVLfG3DNWh4Jys6kHWSz5fcuGQ-cqwuG05RGYlztY71nJVmBooQibX6mr-LeJAE/s1600/chrysanthemumMaryStokerSept13c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrQ5Yh_Er-pW27iLQydbwRNKpNOPUURp3TmTCPtARqObOblAFzy0tOrAaaP-onDq-24k2WIgFffPS8DVLfG3DNWh4Jys6kHWSz5fcuGQ-cqwuG05RGYlztY71nJVmBooQibX6mr-LeJAE/s1600/chrysanthemumMaryStokerSept13c.JPG" height="400" width="330" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chrysanthemum 'Mary Stoker'. Foliage of tree peony, <i>iris cristata</i>, and <i>geranium wlassovianum</i> behind.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I planted<u><b> 'Mary Stoker' </b></u>here next to the <i>geranium wlassovianum</i>, because I thought its butter yellow blooms would look ravishing next to the blue/purple geranium. Naturally, the geranium was all bloomed out by the time Mary got going in late September. HOWEVER, the yellow flowers with red geranium foliage actually ended up being a more pleasing color combo than the one I had planned.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNS-uvfBzV1v9bxbL__cZt9tqlYcS9mpBTYgxlViTm42bJYxhxPcJ0-0VPm742NxguJVuZxe7jBs5dGWOI7tNInaSkeD2g5B8GLhEA2bDSvPv7lhecLPc6i0VGqBUWwLXONb0tK6ePEhI/s1600/chrysanthemumSheffieldOct13b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNS-uvfBzV1v9bxbL__cZt9tqlYcS9mpBTYgxlViTm42bJYxhxPcJ0-0VPm742NxguJVuZxe7jBs5dGWOI7tNInaSkeD2g5B8GLhEA2bDSvPv7lhecLPc6i0VGqBUWwLXONb0tK6ePEhI/s1600/chrysanthemumSheffieldOct13b.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chrysanthemum 'Sheffield'</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZcGhx56_I6icRnh89-7w6Z-vfR6xe4-ZdWJMKaiXJE6ncjbAqhjePjzGRo8Gv5dSc2TfZGvu0BeAjehyphenhyphen3kjgyGIIpgzHIMhwtO7L1SmNHXbpXugD7I9-EKGgsu1PWIj494BdlEacIakM/s1600/chrysanthemumSheffieldYellowOct13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZcGhx56_I6icRnh89-7w6Z-vfR6xe4-ZdWJMKaiXJE6ncjbAqhjePjzGRo8Gv5dSc2TfZGvu0BeAjehyphenhyphen3kjgyGIIpgzHIMhwtO7L1SmNHXbpXugD7I9-EKGgsu1PWIj494BdlEacIakM/s1600/chrysanthemumSheffieldYellowOct13.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chrysanthemum 'Sheffield Yellow'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The coral-pink <u><b>'Sheffield'</b></u> was planted two seasons ago, but since I thought it hadn't returned last year, I "replaced" it with its cousin <u><b>'Sheffield Yellow'</b></u> (which is really more of a peach) in the same spot. It turned out both plants were alive and kicking, and ended up growing all tiggledy-piggledy on top of one another. I'm going to have to move one (if I can separate them!) - ack, how to decide. Both bloomed from late September into October last year.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPwvYxzscbz5APXGurh9fU50cJMAi64nzWe1h3Rl9_pxgcIZtvj7rMWs-XTbza_aqX8-MSFnkSCaBcYkHBPVjc-P9OGDxEMepq6ckmTm2V6DQ88iiedR6Ssm-xyYRoUnbxk15qi9WJam0/s1600/chrysanthemumGlowingEmber13c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPwvYxzscbz5APXGurh9fU50cJMAi64nzWe1h3Rl9_pxgcIZtvj7rMWs-XTbza_aqX8-MSFnkSCaBcYkHBPVjc-P9OGDxEMepq6ckmTm2V6DQ88iiedR6Ssm-xyYRoUnbxk15qi9WJam0/s1600/chrysanthemumGlowingEmber13c.JPG" height="328" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chrysanthemum 'Glowing Ember' and Ninebark 'Coppertina'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Finally, last to bloom for me (in mid-November last year - although it was a warm, late Autumn) was <u><b>'Glowing Ember'</b></u>. It had very lovely dark buds of an unusual deep coral red color, followed by oddly shaped rusty peach blooms. I liked it with the deep red-burgundy of the nearby ninebark. If both of these fill out in the future, the effect should be lovely.spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-19197568803944275812014-03-18T13:37:00.000-05:002014-03-18T13:37:10.893-05:00Clematis StatusIt's late March and there is still plenty of snow on the ground which is taking its SWEET time to melt. I'm suffering from a bad case of spring fever, and no way to scratch the garden itch yet. I'll try to tide myself over here with some catch-up posts from last season.<br />
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I've been slowly adding to my clematis collection, and very pleased with how the plants are progressing so far. Two of my two-year olds shot up tall and bloomed profusely last year:<br />
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<u><b>Etoile Violette</b></u> - this is a VERY dark purple. Perhaps too dark - the color recedes too much for my taste in the garden, especially against the brown fence :-( However, it is a healthy viticella type and a robust grower.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1oIRZxIgIT0R5_DMt88O-XwNjVl6s7OZCi7VSIGPEdPJXjsmSCL3EfX-YiFXQ7TshTlIVNHXg4Rp35cAtVy5-JhSDIkgY0Vcod4uUf9TwXFMeVNU8rCDob7Wm86dqs8EOvS6iiA47uRk/s1600/clematisEtoileViolette13f.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1oIRZxIgIT0R5_DMt88O-XwNjVl6s7OZCi7VSIGPEdPJXjsmSCL3EfX-YiFXQ7TshTlIVNHXg4Rp35cAtVy5-JhSDIkgY0Vcod4uUf9TwXFMeVNU8rCDob7Wm86dqs8EOvS6iiA47uRk/s1600/clematisEtoileViolette13f.JPG" height="400" width="335" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clematis 'Etoile Violette'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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In its second year in my garden it grew to the top of the privacy fence and began swirling around the corner a bit. My hope is to eventually train it laterally in a big swathe heading in both directions at the top. (And maybe I should paint the fence a lighter color to make the flower color stand out more??)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipbertFqS7F0puR1HZ4E-Dec7pBh3Kl38eBMJMuS7EES9IkLbDogl5NDsIvM4pDGNXp7jfFtrr63WSBgC79qeMuDlMHnH4dOTQa57LKi3zML7hJeHsunshbu8UPVtLmRIFJwNKtOjqQy8/s1600/clematisEtoileViolette13e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipbertFqS7F0puR1HZ4E-Dec7pBh3Kl38eBMJMuS7EES9IkLbDogl5NDsIvM4pDGNXp7jfFtrr63WSBgC79qeMuDlMHnH4dOTQa57LKi3zML7hJeHsunshbu8UPVtLmRIFJwNKtOjqQy8/s1600/clematisEtoileViolette13e.JPG" height="400" width="272" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clematis 'Etoile Violette'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<u><b>Mrs. Robert Brydon</b></u> is an herbaceous, non-climbing type of clematis with unusual large leaves. This past year it grew quite big - not so much tall as wide and bushy - but I managed to harness it to this trellis and lash it to the railing of my deck. I must have gone through several balls of twine to keep this baby in place.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR2NKNNpzOm5049Y6RRlP46uAjSVV3iAwJK_nU2rU_-vymhkHl6XuTs62OTdrRwdM8jCFZY7rzKYr0_okyEuHiq6uS9e8jeSZTvUim3r4paiUngbpfLvf32zgC5P466oKtdhlpnKYCJXs/s1600/patioRaisedBedJune13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR2NKNNpzOm5049Y6RRlP46uAjSVV3iAwJK_nU2rU_-vymhkHl6XuTs62OTdrRwdM8jCFZY7rzKYr0_okyEuHiq6uS9e8jeSZTvUim3r4paiUngbpfLvf32zgC5P466oKtdhlpnKYCJXs/s1600/patioRaisedBedJune13.JPG" height="271" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chunky leaves of clematis 'Mrs. Robert Brydon' beginning to climb the trellis in June</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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By late August it was absolutely covered in small, starry blue flowers and buzzing with bees. I really liked the effect, although it was a bit of work to keep tying the stems up higher and higher. This plant definitely would prefer to sprawl downwards. But in the end we could see the grand floral display from both the upper and lower levels of the deck, so it does work well in this spot for us.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Npl7H6Q4Zs7Pix5DSi7o2gsXr90eAhsOcZC7F1gcwAcHrhs922koFliXxIxhf7MX204YaQKtZinn4VhaIwl5AMtIBuMiHvrhqFnrXEXAaGBYE1m-4TLyauAGBVc96sHmS_eh-ildrgA/s1600/clematisMrsRobertBrydonAug13b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Npl7H6Q4Zs7Pix5DSi7o2gsXr90eAhsOcZC7F1gcwAcHrhs922koFliXxIxhf7MX204YaQKtZinn4VhaIwl5AMtIBuMiHvrhqFnrXEXAaGBYE1m-4TLyauAGBVc96sHmS_eh-ildrgA/s1600/clematisMrsRobertBrydonAug13b.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clematis 'Mrs. Robert Brydon'. You can see the twine in this picture!</td></tr>
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<br />
My other viticella hybrid, <u><b>Blekitny Aniol</b></u>, increased somewhat in size this past year (its second year in my garden as well), but still seems tentative about its new home.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAdVhTu6XmTGxFq2_yfgVayHHM2FIKcxaE-8KbImbn0-QtoL88reUHYL2SBar5ScQsXYGExFetvmM2Jc3gY-RyhxIx6rm5XYMl8tP1Pys6pMfY_-AMVkSqgWHT38jgGuthYeHFU_hNccc/s1600/sideFenceJuly13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAdVhTu6XmTGxFq2_yfgVayHHM2FIKcxaE-8KbImbn0-QtoL88reUHYL2SBar5ScQsXYGExFetvmM2Jc3gY-RyhxIx6rm5XYMl8tP1Pys6pMfY_-AMVkSqgWHT38jgGuthYeHFU_hNccc/s1600/sideFenceJuly13.JPG" height="358" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clematis 'Blekitny Aniol', with lilies and a sea of rhubarb at its feet</td></tr>
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Part of the problem may be that the squirrels have taken to using its trellis as a ladder, and sometimes accidentally break stems in their vigorous scrambling. Still, I do like the soft lavender color of the flowers and am hoping this year will see a burst of energy from this one. This one and Etoile Violette both bloom at the end of June into early July in my garden.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhatWuzY5eLkJ42CUfyMxDBS_1wAXbmWAeqB1Q6Ih_VBrDGriCGLJ6v7zYGmMyFUvTWJfwqvOH8vnO6y-QgRcAu8nE4TNR6lgxjzy3BFrVuN_P01ucXtNOz07rm4iGAXTr0srN-AkYbgBA/s1600/clematisBlekitnyAniol13d.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhatWuzY5eLkJ42CUfyMxDBS_1wAXbmWAeqB1Q6Ih_VBrDGriCGLJ6v7zYGmMyFUvTWJfwqvOH8vnO6y-QgRcAu8nE4TNR6lgxjzy3BFrVuN_P01ucXtNOz07rm4iGAXTr0srN-AkYbgBA/s1600/clematisBlekitnyAniol13d.JPG" height="400" width="291" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clematis 'Blekitny Aniol' (Blue Angel)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
The surprise clematis hit of the season was the <i>clematis tangutica </i><u><b>'Bill MacKenzie'</b></u>. Since it was newly planted in the spring, I did not expect it to do much or to really bloom at all. This clematis knocked my out of the park by growing up to the top of the privacy fence and then continuing along in an attractive horizontal sweep.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-lrtO3WWAEiKmrHM8_GYbcgRexgsoHuDLaPjKHu6bDD7tylISS7_wj5D9vqQ3i9PO_wdItmzIL3RVyJZYiy0Z5qX7CNX0cYK8ASLt3sdC4n_tY4odMgLqYVK6lJUamKHy0h7fyLZEw-w/s1600/clematisBillMacKenzie13b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-lrtO3WWAEiKmrHM8_GYbcgRexgsoHuDLaPjKHu6bDD7tylISS7_wj5D9vqQ3i9PO_wdItmzIL3RVyJZYiy0Z5qX7CNX0cYK8ASLt3sdC4n_tY4odMgLqYVK6lJUamKHy0h7fyLZEw-w/s1600/clematisBillMacKenzie13b.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Clematis tangutica</i> 'Bill MacKenzie'</td></tr>
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It was absolutely covered in small, cheery yellow lanterns from September until October, gradually followed by fabulous, Dr. Seuss-like poofballs (seedheads). The foliage has an narrow, ferny elegance which nicely complements the blooms.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6kYn7IkvMB1-GrBI40yK2_AjltNENcsDH4vIDsGHY9GPtf484WLx5pCu16Q70xDiIAb_AXBDErl2AsQpEe81vYS7MMDWoM7oOKr4c1XYws73JPhCX4dGBIQVNEKDXWWJboev0Zq6q26w/s1600/clematisBillMacKenzie13d.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6kYn7IkvMB1-GrBI40yK2_AjltNENcsDH4vIDsGHY9GPtf484WLx5pCu16Q70xDiIAb_AXBDErl2AsQpEe81vYS7MMDWoM7oOKr4c1XYws73JPhCX4dGBIQVNEKDXWWJboev0Zq6q26w/s1600/clematisBillMacKenzie13d.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Clematis tangutica </i>'Bill MacKenzie'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The seedheads persisted through the winter and made a great contribution to the winter landscape. This plant supposedly gets very large - up to 20 feet or so. I am hoping it will eventually wind its way horizontally along the top of my fence. The birds seems to really enjoy this clematis - the seeds must be tasty snacks.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCKDnh41Xv72O6hei4TtZ6ikueG1BxB3lMFY2nPAzzNL4zG-gbKlhKikOEMd-WmmMWkJy1wEVlP8Akg9APsRNSu-MKABFw33cmHW8PxhAE-h7zFemMOvYh9pv0SCMjLpLatSgNa_-hPL8/s1600/clematisBillMacKenzie13f.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCKDnh41Xv72O6hei4TtZ6ikueG1BxB3lMFY2nPAzzNL4zG-gbKlhKikOEMd-WmmMWkJy1wEVlP8Akg9APsRNSu-MKABFw33cmHW8PxhAE-h7zFemMOvYh9pv0SCMjLpLatSgNa_-hPL8/s1600/clematisBillMacKenzie13f.JPG" height="400" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Clematis tangutica</i> 'Bill MacKenzie' - seedpods in winter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
My other newly-planted clematis, <u><b>Cardinal Wyszynski</b></u>, did not bloom in its first year (not surprisingly). I have plans to add more clematis near some of my larger roses and other shrubs, once I've given them a bit more of a head start. There are so many varieties to choose from, it's going to be hard!spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4079712767252003197.post-44180732057198393942014-01-09T12:39:00.000-06:002014-01-09T12:39:00.398-06:00BIG HostaI like BIG hosta and I cannot lie... (Sorry, couldn't resist.)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjflC8KhregudMSMc-D2kD9zps2kmuFlvsxZcUdrfOik1_3LGle7OyQnHTa6V-baXGZE5N9LqDH0pItZ8fZ3nNcFFi2oH76t_tOhVEtX76F-t1TPv2ZbgS_cBAU5nRvHSV4WzlV2jj5PAI/s1600/hostaBlueAngel+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjflC8KhregudMSMc-D2kD9zps2kmuFlvsxZcUdrfOik1_3LGle7OyQnHTa6V-baXGZE5N9LqDH0pItZ8fZ3nNcFFi2oH76t_tOhVEtX76F-t1TPv2ZbgS_cBAU5nRvHSV4WzlV2jj5PAI/s320/hostaBlueAngel+(2).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hosta 'Blue Angel'</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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I actually used to despise hostas, and swore I would have the only hosta-free garden in America. <br />
My issues were probably due to the fact that they are so commonly grown around here, and are often used alone, in big boring groups of nothing-but-hosta. Or planted in ding-dong looking ring-around-the-rosies around every tree trunk in the otherwise empty yard. Which I still think looks terrible and boring.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUOtUfvEiXBAkHIYgJb1mgAzHdHNY4WGPohPKYorphtAZO69YnYHyi2sV7EcXdTLS4HhgBsMxJsjdfWI2t9J6lcxHJLCMxJ8ybk7DFLUuW_ffQUkq7IlmrMVZB40eVH9NYkCg5WebFU38/s1600/hostaPaulsGlory13b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUOtUfvEiXBAkHIYgJb1mgAzHdHNY4WGPohPKYorphtAZO69YnYHyi2sV7EcXdTLS4HhgBsMxJsjdfWI2t9J6lcxHJLCMxJ8ybk7DFLUuW_ffQUkq7IlmrMVZB40eVH9NYkCg5WebFU38/s320/hostaPaulsGlory13b.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hosta 'Paul's Glory'</td></tr>
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But I have now come to appreciate these plants, especially the REALLY REALLY big ones. The bigger the better. They make such a good texture contrast in the shade garden, where everything else tends to be ditty-bitty and makes my head hurt.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYLuOUH_ro134G-0Dt083g15-hb1-j5z_I24wKWB-_VFvmeUeRDnyyWkXcyI3X0xycx1PfWUIt1uUwcIGyoCuZlVTaubW3ybQK7D6DNu9QtLJga2bBeMd7DOUdmCxO5JOJjrxb10TZsxE/s1600/hostaStainedGlass13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYLuOUH_ro134G-0Dt083g15-hb1-j5z_I24wKWB-_VFvmeUeRDnyyWkXcyI3X0xycx1PfWUIt1uUwcIGyoCuZlVTaubW3ybQK7D6DNu9QtLJga2bBeMd7DOUdmCxO5JOJjrxb10TZsxE/s320/hostaStainedGlass13.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hosta 'Stained Glass'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEJQ0E50Xz-SkwIKzADDp7qicQnxjwBjzGWrqKZrwegqA-qYZwlKnzzDHPSBbbV5prFqVfAsjv2AxUyHtRchdYUhhgrHSgfp6yL8cJ-tcKjj6j3BPCo2mQwMB7HR42iNBTbHtgsXUU7V0/s1600/hostaKingMichael13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEJQ0E50Xz-SkwIKzADDp7qicQnxjwBjzGWrqKZrwegqA-qYZwlKnzzDHPSBbbV5prFqVfAsjv2AxUyHtRchdYUhhgrHSgfp6yL8cJ-tcKjj6j3BPCo2mQwMB7HR42iNBTbHtgsXUU7V0/s320/hostaKingMichael13.JPG" width="311" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hosta 'King Michael'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I have added some large hosta varieties to my garden, and keep adding more each year. It will take them a while to mature and look fabulous. But eventually they will. The pictures in this entry are from my hosta-research forays to public gardens.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSFcrOq2rV2Jhpti7ahdrM1W0YHlLnonPnG_m7xb0Cug5egmkp7OV1FsvTP9-784zqeNfz2N84libuHNWlBjuNgN7-4UYDjIN1B5QdIi4hVVY2M11TzjWHs04XuE-tdljqdnxBRSz-ka0/s1600/hostaAbiquaDrinkingGourd13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSFcrOq2rV2Jhpti7ahdrM1W0YHlLnonPnG_m7xb0Cug5egmkp7OV1FsvTP9-784zqeNfz2N84libuHNWlBjuNgN7-4UYDjIN1B5QdIi4hVVY2M11TzjWHs04XuE-tdljqdnxBRSz-ka0/s320/hostaAbiquaDrinkingGourd13.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hosta 'Abiqua Drinking Gourd'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq-2deS6RqlViz99aU-waktiT-l7pCcc-iBTQVbRMhpEt0aSWjKhHuTg1doz3Ie_FSIxXkJzYSEPXNpGO_8KQ_aRQ_zmALWtnSJemsv9TQvgO_Wp9j0UYmCyozugVU8rUvowdYOo-4pNU/s1600/hostaDianaRemembered13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq-2deS6RqlViz99aU-waktiT-l7pCcc-iBTQVbRMhpEt0aSWjKhHuTg1doz3Ie_FSIxXkJzYSEPXNpGO_8KQ_aRQ_zmALWtnSJemsv9TQvgO_Wp9j0UYmCyozugVU8rUvowdYOo-4pNU/s320/hostaDianaRemembered13.JPG" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hosta 'Diana Remembered'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Since I gravitate towards the tough-textured ones, slugs have not been a big issue. Possibly because all the slugs of the neighborhood are in my vegetable garden eating my beets. Sluggo works, if I can remember to keep sprinkling it around.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3G-0xBO96559cjhID3NHXRdzvoqb3ZRBPa6a-_l5E8IGX79Xo7Wfyf_w61lxv4cVSSsR9h_Pn3GrCsqjHuXQfaSvfZUBtYazo6Kw11CslOpZ9UZSewAZADEldVjIgfBrCqXx64_a9tQ0/s1600/hostaParadigmJapMaple.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="343" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3G-0xBO96559cjhID3NHXRdzvoqb3ZRBPa6a-_l5E8IGX79Xo7Wfyf_w61lxv4cVSSsR9h_Pn3GrCsqjHuXQfaSvfZUBtYazo6Kw11CslOpZ9UZSewAZADEldVjIgfBrCqXx64_a9tQ0/s400/hostaParadigmJapMaple.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hosta 'Paradigm' with Japanese Maple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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What are your favorite large hosta varieties? In my garden I currently have Andrew, Blue Angel, Brother Stefan, Captain Kirk, Devil's Advocate, Dream Queen, Great Expectations and Sleeping Beauty. I might have space for a few more really good ones...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY7gQgkwdvEv9GUkZaq6UFvq8FcpAqn4EIp5SgQEdepRbAOeDChm8yy11IFm6_MFeQ_gXRXolp3_hIpCgS3jAf-q_lGuy-t_-TytTcbdeJCYA6akji7B5UREXXBkKYvU5oklUKdnm7liQ/s1600/hostaTrueBlue13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY7gQgkwdvEv9GUkZaq6UFvq8FcpAqn4EIp5SgQEdepRbAOeDChm8yy11IFm6_MFeQ_gXRXolp3_hIpCgS3jAf-q_lGuy-t_-TytTcbdeJCYA6akji7B5UREXXBkKYvU5oklUKdnm7liQ/s320/hostaTrueBlue13.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hosta 'True Blue'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />spurgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02576503805188297240noreply@blogger.com7