Cut Peonies From The Garden

One must always appreciate life’s little gifts.

Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day - May 2012

It’s Garden Blogger’s Bloom Day and this month’s theme is Visions in White. Here’s what’s blooming in my garden right now.

Moonlight Chinese Hydrangea Vine

Weston’s Pink and Sweet Swamp Azalea

Oakleaf Hydrangea

The panicles are just beginning to bloom.

Catalpa Tree

Difficult to photograph, but you get the idea.

A closer view of the blooms among the giant leaves.

Even the lichen covered bench is beatiful with blossoms scattered about.

Garden Bloggers’ Bloom Day is a Meme created by Carol at May Dreams Gardens. Gardeners post images of what’s blooming in their garden on the 15th day of every month. To see what’s blooming all over the world today, visit Carol’s blog.

Shade Gardening with Hostas

It recently occurred to me that the thing that got me into ornamental gardening is the thing I rarely talk about on my blog– Hostas. A few years ago, I was perusing a White Flower Farm catalog when I came across a photo that ignited something in me. That image led me to create my very first self-expressed garden.

I set out to recreate that Hosta garden using the same collection of plants pictured in that photo. Since then, I have branched out on my own, trying new plants here and there, but the original plants have more or less become the bones of my Hosta garden. Here are a few of my Hostas today.

Hosta ‘Liberty’

 

Hosta ‘Blue Angel’

Hosta ‘Pineapple Upsidedown Cake’

Hosta ‘Risky Business’

Hosta ‘Stained Glass’

Hosta ‘Lancifolia’ 

As you can see, I don’t get all crazy and collect rare plants– I’m not that kind of gardener. In fact, many of my plants are ordinary specimens that can be found anywhere. And every now and then, a friend will point me in a new direction and I’ll try something different at their request, but I can honestly say that I don’t derive any pleasure from boasting about my rare-hard-to-find-aren’t-you-jealous-of-me plants.

Why garden with Hostas?

Generations of gardening enthusiasts have turned to Hostas as the “backbone” of their garden and landscape designs. Here’s why: Hostas tolerate shade. Hostas are low maintenance. Hostas have a three-season presence. Hostas blend beautifully with other perennials, annuals, trees, and shrubs. Space limitations need not discourage you from gardening with Hostas as many are suitable for growing in containers as well.

I hope to share more Hosta growing tips through the season. Until then, happy shade gardening!

Planting en masse

My partner and I often joke as we shop for plants, ‘oh, we like that, but do you have 25 of them…’ Garden center employees think we’re kidding or give us a strange look and move on to the next customer. Truth is, most retail outlets don’t often carry that many of a kind unless the plants are tiny. We’re really not joking though– big properties call for big plantings.

To accommodate the large expanses, we practice planting en masse. That simply means we try to plant masses of the same plant to create a bold statement- one that stands up to the house and property. It’s a hard thing to get used to because it means we often have to wait awhile until we can acquire large quantities of like plants. It’s getting easier though. Gardening does teach patience!

Recently, I created a mass planting of Heuchera ‘Plum Pudding’ in a shade bed. It’s the same bed that I removed all the horrible clay soil from last year (See Conquering Clay Soil). I planted very few things last year to allow the new soil to rest and settle over winter. We had purchased 8 Plum Puddings last year and planted them as a test. They came back beautifully and now it was time to fill in the space bordered by Hosta ‘Blue Angel’ and Liriope muscari ‘Variegata.’ 

The Heuchera color and form contrasts with the variegated Liriope. The ‘plum’ color is echoed in other plants within the same bed.

The first step involved placement of the 33 new plants. In summer, the Liriope plants will touch each other and spill over to hide the black edging.

I encountered many earthworms as I dug the holes. That’s a great sign! The soil is healthy and loamy. I needed only a hand trowel to create the holes.

By fall, the Heuchera plants should mature and begin to make their statement. And by next spring, that statement will hopefully have an exclamation point. You get a sense of the desired effect when you look at the few Heuchera which were planted last year (far right).

Planting en masse has many benefits in garden design. It need not be limited to large gardens only. It can have a calming and unifying effect on any garden. It seerves to connect and ease the transition from one area to another. Try to avoid the ‘one of everything’ approach, which can fatigue the eye. Last, masses can visually enlarge even the smallest of gardens. The repetition of form, texture, and color encourages the eye to never stop in one spot, but slowly flow through, creating the illusion of a bigger space.

To close, here are a few examples of how mass plantings work and enhance garden spaces.

Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day - April 2012

Welcome to a soggy version of Garden Bloggers’ Bloom Day. There has been a tinge of frost over the past couple of nights, but the spring rains have arrived and the garden is awakening. I’m always in a bit of a panic when this day arrives because I typically plant more plants for foliage than I do for blossoms. I’ve managed to find a few things in bloom though. I’ve even stretched the rules a bit with my last photo…

The very first Peony blossom of the season has just opened. Wish I could tell you which one it is, but the Peony bed is a hodge podge of inherited plants mixed with new plants. The latter were recklessly planted with no record keeping.

Over the hosta garden, Crataegus viridis ‘Winter King’ or Winter King Hawthorn is in full bloom. This tree provides dappled sunlight for the shade plants beneath. The Hostas are emerging nicely and seem extra robust this year.

Dicentra spectabilis or Bleeding Hearts are always a welcomed site. There were ten or so plants on the property when we moved in six years ago. They are a bit scattered and need to be moved together to create one mass.

I’ve captured the last blossoms on Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Toro’ or Highbush Blueberry. This shrub is new at Sutherland and we don’t expect much fruit this year, but will be thrilled with any yield. Also looking forward to the leave’s fiery colors in autumn.

Although the foliage on Acer palmatum Kiyohime doesn’t qualify as a bloom, I had to include it because of its striking color. After living with this Japanese Maple three seasons, I can honestly say I prefer spring’s new growth to the fall foliage.

Garden Bloggers’ Bloom Day is a Meme created by May Dreams Gardens. Gardeners post images of what’s blooming in their garden on the 15th day of every month. All are welcome to participate.

Lawn Mowing Tips

The American Lawn. A source of pride or just plain hassle? Regardless of your viewpoint, lawn mowing is once again in full swing. If you’re a DIYer, here are a few tips that will keep your lawn looking great all season long.

For a more in depth look at the hows and whys, see my post from last April: Lawn Mowing Guidelines. Feel free to pass along to friends, family, and neighbors. Happy mowing!

Sensational Shrubs

What is a sensational shrub? I believe it’s a shrub that features striking characteristics multiple times a year, or as my friend Lee May puts it, “they multi-task.” Whether it’s flowers, fragrance, foliage, or winter interest, a sensational shrub will provide your garden with interesting qualities throughout the year. Fothergilla x gardenii ‘Blue Shadow’ fits perfectly into this category.

Spring is on the fast-track over much of the country and with it blooms abound. It’s been quite entertaining and worrisome at the same time. Still plenty of time for hard frosts and freezing temps. One of spring’s early bloomers is Fothergilla. This shrub typically blooms in early spring (April to early May) but has been blooming for me since mid March. I love the small pom pom blooms composed of tiny bottlebrush spikes. The white flowers are echoed in the many dogwoods currently in bloom. They feel light and fresh. To me, they symbolize a start to a new beginning.

As new leaves emerge, they appear powder blue– an effect caused by the silver-grey felt which covers them. The foliage will become leathery and broad as it transforms to a striking blue to blue-green throughout the growing season, changing to brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow in autumn. You might even see some purple in the final act.

Fothergilla ‘Blue Shadow’ is a compact slow-grower. It will grow 4-6’ tall and as wide for the first 10 years. So far, there are no known serious insect or disease problems. Try Fothergilla and put a little white in your life this spring. I’m looking forward to following its progress all year. 

FOTHERGILLA x gardenii ‘Blue Shadow’

Common Name: fothergilla

Type: Deciduous shrub

Family: Hamamelidaceae

Zone: 5 to 8

Height: 4 to 6 feet

Spread: 4 to 6 feet

Bloom Time: April to May

Bloom Color: White/Ivory

Sun: Full sun to part shade

Life, Love and Loss. A Tribute to Bob Stewart

Bob Stewart (1952-2011) and his wife Brigitta

photo by Georg Uebelhart

I was saddened to learn of Bob Stewart’s passing on December 16^th, 2011. Bob had been on my mind all fall as I had called the nursery to inquire about a certain Epimedium that I had purchased earlier that spring. I’m pretty sure it was Brigitta, his surviving wife, who answered the phone. When I asked my question, there was a slight pause followed by a thoughtful answer. I could sense that the conversation could have gone on for several more minutes, but then I heard the voice politely say, “I’m afraid I can’t talk too long today, I’m here with the doctor.” With that, the conversation came to an end. Rattled, I found my partner immediately to tell him how the conversation transpired. I knew Bob had been battling cancer, and learning of the doctor’s housecall left me unsettled.

Funny thing is, I barely knew Bob. Only met him once. Truth be told, I didn’t even know I was talking to Bob until after our conversation. As our group was leaving, some friends inquired about our purchases and we told them about the Epimedium. We described the person that helped us and their eyebrows raised as they exclaimed, “That was the owner!”

We had been warned before we were allowed to exit the bus by our tour guide. “Do not move any plants or containers. If you have a question, find someone and bring him or her to the plant, not vice versa. And, do not remove ANY plant tags whatsoever!” It was not lost on me. This place was incredible and it was very apparent that many of these plants were rare. Perennials, woodland wildflowers, unusual ferns, rare alpines, dwarf conifers and unusual trees and shrubs. As we walked through the never-ending plant houses, I was struck by the enormity of this operation. Cool stuff everywhere. Tiny, large, and everything in between. It was otherworldly and that illustration was compounded by its off-beaten-path location and the day’s wicked hot humidity. It was jungle-like, and somehow felt like a scene from Jurassic Park.

Above: Garden images from Arrowhead Alpines website

When I visit nursery operations, I tend to lurk in the background. I’m torn between racing to see the inventory, or, the inner workings of the nursery itself– behind-the-scenes if you will. I tore away from the group (my natural tendency), inching towards off-limits proximity. Accompanied by my partner, this is where I encountered Bob. As he approached, I asked him about the Epimediums among us. I think he delighted in the fact that I had singled out a plant that was, by novice standards, pretty unassuming. We made a selection and without asking, he offered to provide us with flats from the back. That simple gesture left such an impression on me. The flats were out of site of the public shopping area, and although unspoken, he knew what we were trying to accomplish. Flats would be better than pots. Off he went, disappearing into one of the many hoop houses. As he left us, he grumbled, “go to the front and someone will meet you there with the flats.” We did as instructed. As we found our way to the checkout building, we passed many roped-off doorways posted with signs that read Closed and Do Not Enter. Each opening a view into what seemed like a mad-scientist’s laboratory. I couldn’t help but snap a couple of photos. Respectfully, I adhered to the sign’s demands and shot from the doorways.

Prior to boarding the buses, I grabbed a plant list (2008), a habit I’ve formed in recent years. Catalogs are the thesis’ of plantsmen and must be preserved for future reference. The catalog, which is printed on newsprint, contains no photos except for the front and back cover. It is 104 pages of small type. A typical page could list up to 50 different plant names, and descriptions with prices. It’s like a dictionary– page after page of bold face names followed by weighty text. Understandably, there will be no more print catalog published by Arrowhead Alpine. The catalog, which has been described as “epic” was the undertaking of Bob Stewart. I cherish the copy I have, and as I study it more intently, I notice that the images on the covers are of blossoms– Epimedium blossoms.

Do you believe in fate? How is it that our lives would one day cross paths and we would share a bit of dialog about a plant– one of my all time favorite plants? And what does one make of the fact that Bob would assist me in the selection of my very first Epimedium? Bob Stewart, with a zoology degree from Michigan State and a minor in chemistry, became fascinated and passionate about plants while working in a tissue culture lab. He began Arrowhead Alpines near Fowlerville, MI with his wife Brigitta in 1991. Arrowhead was named for the abundance of arrowheads found among the 80-acre property. From the 30+ buildings and hoop houses dedicated to plants, propagation, and research, fine specimens shipped all over the country. Bob surely had more plant knowledge in his little finger than I’ll ever hope to have in my brain. As fate would have it, my own garden grows a bit of his life’s work and passion. I have thought of him often since our chance meeting. Epimedium x perralchicum ‘Frohnleiten’ has emerged from its winter rest. And with it, the memories of Bob Stewart and my visit to Arrowhead Alpines in 2011. Here’s to Bob, passion, and the pursuit.

Heart-shaped leaves on Epimedium x perralchicum ‘Frohnleiten’

I wish continued success to Brigitta as she goes forward with the beloved on-site and mail-order nursery that many have come to know.

To Be Inspired is Great, to Inspire is Incredible

 

Inspiration is a mysterious thing that I will not attempt to explain. I do however, consider it a gift to be inspired. To feel a tingle in the inner psyche, a divine spark, an inexplicable urge to act, to be driven by a strange desire– inspiration is powerful stuff. Imagine my joy when fellow blogger Kevin, author of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Man blog, nominated me for the Very Inspiring Blogger Award. I was overjoyed and touched. When I began blogging, my goals were simple: to teach people gardening practices, share plant information and share my experiences and inspirations as a self-expressed gardener. I can think of no better compliment than to be told that I am responsible in some way for someone’s inspiration.

If you’re not familiar with Nitty Gritty Dirt man, Kevin’s gardening blog is a unique compilation of humor, realism, and healthy doses of pop culture references all intertwined to create a unique style of gardening storytelling. I visit his blog often to catch up on his latest ‘incredibly true misadventures of a home gardener’. I urge you to pay him a visit. I guarantee you’ll smile.

The Very Inspiring Blogger Award comes with a few requirements upon acceptance. One is to pay it forward by nominating 7 other blogs. Second, to reveal seven random facts about myself, and last but not least, thank my nominator and link to their blog.

My 7 nominations: (in random order)

1. Hamptons Gardens – Written by Jeff in East Hampton, NY. This blog is thoughtful, personal and well written. I love how observant Jeff is. He has a very good eye for plant combinations and design as evident in photographs of his own gardens.
2. Skippy’s Vegetable Garden - Kathy, accompanied by her Portuguese water dog named Skippy, authors this great blog about gardening edibles. This is where I turn to for veggie-garden inspiration. From tips to techniques, the photos always convey the story. A terrific urban garden blog.
3. No End to Gardens – A tumble blog dedicated to wonderful garden photos submitted by people all over the world. Go here to get visual inspiration and be prepared to be amazed. Why aren’t there more blogs like this??
4. American Gardening, with a love for the English Garden – Thomas Mickey’s blog is dedicated to telling the story of how nineteenth century American seed and nursery catalogs sold the English garden style to America. This blog will teach you a quick history lesson in every post, and includes research for his upcoming book Seduction of the English Garden. Go visit his blog right now.
5. The Perennial Plate – a site dedicated to adventurous and sustainable eating. The video episodes are the main reason I visit the site, but the duo’s blogs, authored by Daniel and Mirra, are a good read too. Go here to see real food and the people behind it. Awesome video production. You might just be inspired to incorporate video into your blog. I know I am.
6. Growing with Plants – Matt is what I call an intense gardener. He has a sizeable greenhouse that kept me salivating for more exotics all winter long. Gardening is in his blood and he just goes for it. I’ve learned an awful lot about plants from this informative blog. 
7. The Intercontinental Gardener – I have a fascination with the Northwest and Liisa Wihman’s blog is my window into that world. Her blog is lovely and worldly. A seasoned gardener, she’s gardened in five countries on three continents. Stunning photography and eloquent prose. I love this blog. 

7 random facts about me…

• I love and collect American Impressionism painting.

• Some of my favorite movies include: Six Degrees of Separation, Man on Wire, The Shawshank Redemption and Dancer in the Dark.

• I co-founded a graphic design firm with my best friend in 1991. We were on the fast track and achieved a lifetime of accomplishments within the first 5 years with International acclaim.

• English was not my first language. I spoke Spanish up until the first day of kindergarten. Consequently, I don’t remember much of that school year. 

• I don’t have kids, but I have two very special children in my life. Kids can change your perspective even if they’re not yours.

• An occasional Mani Pedi is a must for me. Completely underrated by men. Oh, and a good haircut doesn’t hurt either. ; )

• I live deliberately and look for the beauty lurking in the mundane details of everyday things.

So, there you have it. Seven completely random facts about me. And thank you Kevin. I’m honored by your nomination.

Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day - March 2012

On beautiful warm and sunny mid March morning, this is what is blooming in my garden.

Hellebore White Spotted Lady

Star Magnolia Tree - bud and blossoms

Hellebore Ivory Prince

Garden Bloggers’ Bloom Day is a Meme created by May Dreams Gardens. Gardeners post images of what’s blooming in their garden on the 15th day of every month. All are welcome to participate.