Day 225: Since moving into this house 25 years ago, I've gardened in varying degrees. At first, it seemed that the battle against the weeds would never end. The flower beds were overgrown with grass when I took possession of the property, and with the help of a friend, we excavated them to a depth of 18", sifting out weeds and rocks, replacing anything which looked like it might turn into a desirable plant. It took three or four years of diligent weeding to bring any semblance of order to the chaos, and during that time, I planted mostly annuals so I could pull up anything green which sprouted the following spring. Later, I began to add a few perennials to the ones we'd unearthed, and now I've abandoned annuals almost entirely. The garden is at last manageable with a minimum of care.
This year, however, good weather came early, and I went a bit berserk when the grubbing-in-the-dirt mood came over me. I laid new beds, planted shrubs and trees, shifted perennials to better locations and added new ones to fill in the gaps. Finally, I can honestly say that I am enjoying gardening rather than looking upon the activity as something more or less demanded of any homeowner. Now I am seeing the real rewards!
From left to right, top to bottom:
This variety of Osteospermum carries the enchanting name "Spoonflower." Can you see why?
An old-fashioned favourite, this yellow Columbine was one we salvaged.
The Wisteria was one of the first things I planted. It has borne more flowers this year than any time past.
Lily-of-the-Valley was a must-have because as a child, I enjoyed it at my grandmother's home.
Sarracenia "Carolina Yellow Jacket" is my newest carnivore. It stands in a dish of water to keep its feet wet.
The pink Columbines came with the house. Not my favourite color, I am phasing them out gradually.
No comments:
Post a Comment