BobsGarden.com

WATER FEATURES 2009 SEATTLE GARDEN SHOW

2009-03-25T20:37:00.000-07:00

In a continued post on the 2009 Seattle Garden Show this post
is focused on outdoor water features. I've grouped them in
types to show just a few of the many styles of water
features there are. After seeing these beautiful
displays it really makes me want to
incorporate one into the garden.

This one was my favourite. I loved the contemporary form and

the infinity edge feel. It's a pond less style so it's easy to maintain.
Love the repetition of shapes of tiles and water feature.
And the lighting inside --- amazing!

Another pond less style but with basalt spires. This style
has been around for a while but still is a great look. For those that
are not familiar with basalt spire water features
the spires are drilled in the center to allow the
water to cascade out.

I really like this reflecting pond. It's unique shape creates
a wonderful focal area.

Another reflecting pond with a Southeast Asian influence. The repeated pots in
the center were a nice touch and anchor this display.

This rill style was beautifully executed. The capped top
also adds additional seating.

The lighting from below on the cube form of the contemporary
water feature was very effective. Water came from the center of
the square and cascaded over all four edges.

This water feature incorporated natural and industrial elements.
The water was cascading out of galvanized flashing
which contrasted nicely with all the mosses,
boulders, logs, and foliage.

And finally, a natural design water fall and pond
as if you came upon it on a mountain hike.

As you can see there were many styles and something for everyone.
I hope it inspires you to find a place in you garden for one.

BOTANICAL WORDS:
trichocaulon - meaning with a hairy stem
plants with this word - Hypericum trichocaulon

SEATTLE GARDEN SHOW 2009

2009-03-21T20:37:00.000-07:00

In Mid-February Seattle had it's 21st Garden Show. This show is the 2nd largest in the country and is always eagerly anticipated by any one into gardening in the area. For me it really
kicks off the garden season. I've featured just a few pictures to show some garden trends and share some thoughts. Unfortunately the photos are not as crisp and focused as I would have liked ( I have a new camera and I'm still trying to figure it out). But I'm sure you'll see some very creative ideas that you can apply to you garden.

Multi-layered hard scapes in different colours

Outdoor living spaces with dual tasking (benches store wood and provide seating)
mixing contemporary elements with rustic/natural textures and finishes.

All foliage landscapes relying on textures, form, and shades of foliage.

Natural elements for form and function. These granite steps are 6 feet and larger!

Ground covers used in new ways. Pave' design used with these ground covers
creating garden wall.

Like above but here the ground covers were used to create an art piece in the patio.

A living Collage!

The continued use of outdoor garden rooms, the above created out of stone. Again the using natural material to function. There were lots of rock benches and seats creating small intimate areas designed into the garden.

I just thought this was very cool. It's the end of a tree (your seeing the roots) used as an accent piece as well as screen.

This display reminded me of how important it is to create peaceful areas that we gardeners can retreat to. The scale on this garden was wonderful. It really gave the illusion of depth in a very narrow garden.

The next post well show some of the incredible water features featured at the show.

BOTANICAL WORDS:
rugosus or rugulosus - meaning wrinkled
plants with this word - Rosa rugosa

HAPPY ST. PATRICKS DAY

2009-03-15T19:46:00.000-07:00

Wanted to share an Oxalis for St. Patty's Day. The above is Redwood Sorrel (Oxalis oregana) which is native to the Pacific Northwest. This plant is a shade lover and actually folds it's leaves down in direct sun. They quickly reopen once the shade returns. Native American Indians enjoyed the leaves of this sorrel. Oxalis organa can be located growing at the base of large trees like Firs, Redwoods, and Hemlocks preferring a soil of moist rich humus. Forming large clumps and spreads moderately this plant is hardy.
With the financial distress through out the glode these days maybe finding a four leaf clover or the luck of the Irish is just what the need to lighten up the mood.

Happy St. Patricks Day!

SEED STARTING

2009-03-13T20:23:00.001-07:00

Well it's that time of year that the seed starting gets kicked off. I'm ambitious this year with
starting many more types of seeds than usually. All get started inside with a seed starting technique that I have done for years. I can share on that in a later post. The above are some sweet pea starts, which I'm acclimating to outside conditions. Below is a list of what I'll be sprouting this Spring. I'll let you know on how they are doing.

Sweet Pea 'North Shore'
Sweet Pea 'Cupani's Original'
Sweet Pea 'April in Paris'
Ipomopsis (Hummingbird Mix)
Silene 'Jack Flash'
Gomphrena 'Fireworks'
Viola 'Amber Kiss'
Zinnia (Border Beauty Hybrid Mix)
Zinnia (Cut and Come Again Mix)
Zinnia (Giant Cactus Flower Mix)
Tithonia 'Sundance'
Pumpkin 'Rouge Vif d'Etampes'
Sweet Basil
Sweet Basil 'Red Rubin'
Thunbergia Alata 'Superstar Orange'
Mina lobata
Sunflowers (Mixed Hybrid Collection)
Limnathes douglasii
Nolana (Sun Belle Mix)
California Poppy (Fruit Crush)
Marigold (Zenith Mix F1 Hybrid)
Torenia (Happy Faces Hybrid Mix)

This well keep me busy for a while. I'll share pictures of how they are doing or when they are blooming in future posts.

BOTANICAL WORDS:
douglasii - named after David Douglas
plants with this word - Limanthes douglasii (Poached Egg flower)

MOTHER NATURE SURPRISES

2009-03-10T20:21:00.000-07:00

Boston Ivy (Pathenocissus tricuspidata)

Golden Full Moon Maple (Acer shirasawanum 'Aureum')

Gardening is not an exact science and there are often countless mysteries in how Mother Nature works. The photos shown are to prove this point. Both pictures were shot last Spring. But as you can see their are some interesting colour differences in the leaves.
All the foliage on the maple is from side by side branches (same plant). And the Ivy (growing on a wall near my home) is all receiving the same amount of light, water, temperature, all the same conditions. So why the differences in colour? I don't have the answer.
All plants with in a month had returned to their traditional Spring colour. In any case it was beautiful to see, a little bit of Autumn colour in Spring, and a gentle reminder of Mother Nature many surprises.

BOTANICAL WORDS:
aureum - meaning gold or golden
plants with this word - Acer shirasawanum 'Aureum'

POTTED HYACINTHS

2009-03-08T15:25:00.000-07:00

In a continued series on potted bulbs I wanted to elaborate on Hyacinths. I generally grow several pots of Hyacinths a year strictly for their fragrance. Nothing is more welcoming than a pot in full bloom located by the front door were guests enter. Plus, I get to enjoy the flowers fragrance every time I go by too. Hyacinths (Hyacinthus orientalis), along with tulips, are often grown as annual because they regularly don't match the vigour they have in their first year. So, at my garden after they finish blooming the bulbs are discarded into the compost pile making room for summer colour in those same pots.
The above pictured hybrids are H. orientalis 'City of Haarlem' (yellow) and H. orientalis 'Gipsy Queen' (peach). I really don't have any recommended favorites when it comes to Hyacinths generally choosing what every is available at the local garden center.

BOTANICAL WORDS:
amarissimus - meaning very bitter
plants with this word - Salvia amarissimus

AEGOPODIUM

2009-03-08T10:21:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year exploring what new hybrids that are available and seeing new plant introductions. It can be very tempting seeing so much garden candy. I use to be more impulsive when purchasing plants. But now with garden experience I'm much more calculated in what plants make it into the cart. One thing that has helped is blogs by fellow gardeners that inform me of their experiences when investigating plants that I'm not familiar with. On that note I thought to share a plant you might want to stay away from.
Aegopodium podograria 'variegatum' (Bishops Weed) is a beautiful hardy ground cover with multi tonal variegated leaves that prefers partial shade locations in moist rich soil. In a 4 inch or 1 gallon pot it can look harmless until you releases it into your garden. Once established it is very aggressive spreading by underground runners as well as copious reseeding. Reseeding can be deterred by mowing of flowers which does flush out fresh new foliage. However, this plant loves to spread. It can be contained by metal or cement barriers dug into the ground. It is a very attractive ground cover and if you have a large area that has difficulty growing anything you may want to consider it. If not there are many other ground covers that are far less invasive allowing you more time to enjoy your garden instead of working in it.

BOTANICAL WORDS:
spathulifolius - meaning with spoon-shaped leaves
plants with this word - Sedum spathulifolius

POTTED TULIPS

2009-03-03T18:30:00.001-08:00

I toured the garden today anxiously seeing what's sprouting. I was happy to see this years tulips are going strong, already standing about 3 inches high. It's always amazing how quickly they grow, knowing that in 6 to 7 weeks they will be in full bloom. Generally I grow my tulips in containers primarily because of a constant vole problem I have. In additional its great having them portable to move them closer while in colour. The above picture is of last years tulips. I traditionally plant in solid varieties (for more impact) and roughly 150 to 200 hundred every year. Some feel that its a waste of money but to me it's not a big expense for the joy I get out of them. Plus I often give out extra pots to brighten up friends and neighbors doorsteps.
The two pictured are Tulipa fosteriana 'Juan' (orange and yellow tulip) and Tulipa greggii 'Red Riding Hood' (red tulip). I'm a big fan of hybrids like these because they tend to be early bloomers and they have beautifully mottled foliage so they look interesting even before they bloom.
In Spring container gardening it's really hard to top the overall
impact of a large pot of tulips.

BOTANICAL WORDS:
malacoides - soft, supple
plant with this word - Primula malacoides

GETTING THE GOOD DIRT

2009-03-01T13:35:00.000-08:00

Successful gardening is comprised of many things. Appropriate sunlight, adequate watering,
well producing hybrids or cultivars, and last but certainly not lest good soil. This is especially true for container gardening. The above pictures prove a valueable point. Both pots have the same plants grown in similar locations (just feet from each other). But the container on the left
had soil that had been used for several years (I had not replaced the soil). While the pot on the right had new potting soil. Both containers received the same amount of water and fertilizer.
As you can see there is a tremendous difference between the two. Lesson learned - I'll invest in new potting soil every year to get healthier vigorous plants.
I have always preached this at nurseries that I have worked at, I guess now I'll take my own advise :)

BOTANICAL WORDS:
patraea - meaning growing among rocks
plants with this word - Quercus patraea

VIOLA SORBET BLUE HAVEN

2009-02-28T12:16:00.000-08:00

Well it's getting to that time of year where seeds that have been
ordered are arriving and I get ambitious in getting the garden going.
Last Fall I started some seeds for Fall/Spring colour. Above are some shots of some of them. Pictured are Viola 'Blue Haven' from the Viola Sorbet series. I was amazed at there vigour, and how quickly they started blooming, showing flowers at only 1 1/2 inches tall. This hybrid grows to about 8 to 10 inches wide and generally to about 6 inches high. Performing best in full sun, this Viola responds favorable to often fertilizing (every 2 to 3 weeks) during the growth season. It well reseed but if you going to have volunteers popping up in the garden I can think of many that would be worse. I started several flats, gave out a few, and have heard wonderful comments on how well this viola is doing. I'd have to say if your looking for a very easy care annual this that give you months of colour and delivers old fashion charm then this Viola is for you.

BOTANICAL WORDS:
validus - meaning strong, robust
plants with this word - Lobelia validus

LICHENS, MOSS, AND FUNGUS

2009-02-26T20:01:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share some photos of what many of the branches are covered with around this time of year. I don't know what types of lichens, moss, or fungus these are. I do know that they do not harm the plants they grow on. The bottom pictures is of soil with some type fungus or moss. By mid Summer they usually dissapear or shrivil down to where they are not noticable. To me they are really cool. Almost like a organic collage. Certainly something interesting to look at before all the buds start to swell and leave start to unfurl.

BOTANICAL WORDS:
digitatus - hand sharped; with fingers
plants with this word - Carex digitatus

CROCUS

2009-02-24T10:22:00.001-08:00

Another reminder that Spring is on the way is when the Crocus start blooming. There are many species of Crocus but the types that are generally sold at your local nursery or garden centre are Crocus vernus. Crocus vernus (Dutch Crocus) come in many colours and combinations and slowly mutiply if given the opportunity.
One of the cleaverest ways I've seen them used is acturally planted in lawns (in cold climate areas). The flowers bloom before the first mowing and the blade like leaves blend in perfectly with any rye, blue, or fescue grass lawns. This look works best when the bulbs are planted spordically and in a unplanned way. When the Crocus flower the lawn will look like a short meadow in bloom.
Crocus are native to the Mediterranean area and are in the Iridaceae family (Iris family).

BOTANICAL WORDS:
pogonanthus - with bearded flowers
plants with this word - Geranium pogonanthus

SNOWDROPS

2009-02-23T16:59:00.001-08:00

Starting again. Its been a long time since I have posted on a regular basis. Sometimes life pulls you in other directions or one doesn't feel the motivation. I have continued to keep up with the photography and now feel its time to return and share some current and not so distant past shots.
Often I find the writing potion of posting to be the most difficult because I'm not very good at it. So you'll find my posts to more brief.
I hope you all enjoy, and if you do have question on any of the plants please
feel free to ask.

Even though Spring officially has not started, it always feels like it has when I see the Snowdrops (Galanthus) blooming. Here are some of the first bulbs to blooms. A native to Asia Minor and Europe the amaryllis family member prefer cold winter locations.
They are often confused with leucojums. Generally you can tell the difference by the different lengths in the petals and sepals of the Snowdrops (Galanthus). Were leucojums typically have sepals and petals of the same length.

In either case I find them delightful and a wonderful messenger that Spring is near.

BOTANICAL WORDS:
lineatus - meaning with lines, in a straight line
plants with this word - Convolvulus lineatus

ROSES, ROSES, ROSES

2008-08-17T20:46:00.000-07:00

Growing roses for years it never seems to amaze me on how beautiful they are.
The fragrance, the colours, the different sizes and forms. There really is something for everyone.

Here are some fun facts about Roses.

The oldest living rose is said to be over 1000 years old and is on the wall of
Hildeshiem Catherdral in Germany

The Worlds Largest Tree Rose is located in Tombstone, Arizona (USA). It's canopy spread across more than 8,000 square feet and has a trunk diameter of approximately 12 feet.

When in bloom it's calculated to have over a million flowers.

Roses belong obviously to the rose family. But did you know that many fruits and nuts we eat also belong to that same family.
Almonds, Apples, Pears, Peaches, Nectarines, Apricots, Berries, and Plums to name a few.

Currently there are over 16,000 varieties of roses available in commerce.

The worlds largest Rose garden is located in Cavriglia, Italy.
It has over 7,500 different varieties of roses.

The rose hip contain more vitamin C than just about any other vegetable or fruit.

Although Roses do take a little extra time and care, to me they are worth it.
I hope you have a place in your garden for some.

What does this mean?
ramulosus --- twiggy
Plants with this name, Olearia ramulosa

BRACHYCOME

2008-08-05T14:08:00.000-07:00

This year I decided to start more of my annuals. It was not only because it is very cost effective but also because I truly enjoy starting something from seed and seeing it through to maturity.
I figured I'd give a try at a few new plants that I haven't started from seed in the past. It's always good to try something new and for the nominal cost of a few dollars for a seed packet, I thought I really had nothing to lose. One of the new plants I tried was Brachycome.

Brachycome is a plant that I purchased before and used in mixed hanging baskets. I wanted to try it as border edging. This plants common name is Swan River Daisy and is native to Australia. A member of the Asteraceae family it covers itself with a myriad of 1 inch (2.5cm) daisy like flowers and blooms profusely until the first frost. It is not a tall grower topping out at 9 to 12 inches (23-30cm). It requires very little care other than full sun and occasional water.
The hybrid I grew was "Purple Splendor". I would recommend it, with only one small reservation. It had inconsistent colour ranging from periwinkle to orchid purple (you can see by the two photos above). I didn't mind the different colours but do know some gardeners when planting in large drift preferring one colour.

What does this mean?
eburneus --- ivory white
Plants with this name: Eryngium eburneus

DELIGHTFUL DAZZLING DAHLIAS

2008-08-04T20:49:00.000-07:00

Earlier this year I removed all my dahlias, gave them away, and replaced them with new dwarf varieties. The old types that I had were beautiful but required staking and some extra work. I'm, at times, a lazy gardener and got tired of the maintenance. So the new dahlia bed is fill dwarf hybrids that top out at a max of 36 inches and come in a rainbow of colours. The flowers are all standard sizes, many with long enough stems for cutting, but they require no staking. It's wonderful! In the raised bed with the dahlias I've also planted cactus flowing Zinnias to round out the display. Once the the bed fills out I'll share a picture.

What does this mean?
laevis --- soft
plants with this term; Aster laevis, Escallonia laevis

vis

RETURNING

2008-08-04T20:28:00.000-07:00

It's been way to long since my last post. My new job keeps me very busy in the Spring and early Summer, and now that business is starting to slow down I can return to blogging and share the goings on in the garden.

Since I have a lot of photos saved up over the last six month, my posts will feature plants currently of interest or in bloom in the garden, as well as some that have long since finished from their peak.

In addition, at the end of every post I plan on adding a fact on botanical names or nomenclature. I find this sort of thing interesting and educational. I hope you do too!

I look forward to posting again and as always feel free to comment or ask questions.

Happy Gardening, BOB

All HALE THE KALE

2008-03-10T19:47:00.001-07:00

The Cabbage photo is one I took in mid January. Last fall I shared a picture of the cabbage seedlings that I started, and now I wanted to show what they look like at maturity.
Ornamental kale and Cabbage are planted here in early fall and continue to grow throughout the Winter. They don't seem to be bothered by the cold and now that we are in March they are starting to bolt because the temperatures are warming. All come from the same parentage as regular cabbage and kale, as well, as Brussels sprouts, broccoli, kohlrabi, and cauliflower. Through selection in different areas of the world the same plant evolved into many forms.
The kale and cabbage I choose were shorter cultivars only getting about 14'' high. I like planting them with winter pansies for colour in the colder months. Usually they go in the ground in October around the same time I plant the fall bulbs.

A BEAUTY THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

2008-01-31T09:21:00.000-08:00

With Winter still going strong and work being very busy, I haven't gotten as much of an opportunity to do the daily stroll to see whats growing. Other than some of the perennials and bulbs sprouting their still is not much going on. During these times I take great joy in noticing some of the old stand-byes in the garden that always seem to putz along without any extra care.
One of these plants is the Cotoneaster dammeri that I have several grouping of throughout the front gardens. I planted these roughly 3 years ago as a under study to the foundation plantings and they have worked very well.

Cotoneater is a member of the Rose family and when studying the flowers closely you can see it family resemblance (each flower looks like a miniature old rose).
C. dammeri is native to China and has been hybridized creating several sizes and berry colours. I have C. dammeri 'Coral beauty'. It's a variety that grows 12" to 18' high and about 6' wide. When the plant is young it's important to pinch it to promote fullness, then allow it to spread on the ground or cascade over walls and rocks. C. dammeri is hardy to zone 5 and requires little water once established. Spring flowers produce red to vermilion berries that form through out Summer and last till late Winter. Cotoneasters do best with minimal care and actually seem to look their best when left unattended once established.

Coral Beauty is an appropriate name for this plant because it really is a beauty throughout the whole year.

SPROUTS

2008-01-28T13:43:00.000-08:00

It's been a month since my last post. It's funny how life works out when you think you might have a little extra time on your hands and suddenly you end up with less. The last month has been very busy, but also good. I am very excited about this year. Lots of new opportunities and events, and many new things I'm learning at my new job.

That being said I thought I'd share something else that delights me, signs of Spring. Right now it's snowing and in my area we are expected to have snow or rain for the next few days. I feel very fortunate that soon the snows will stop and Spring will begin to make her appearance. Usually in my area Winter finishes up the end of February to the beginning of March.
The above shots were taken a few weeks ago. I'm always glad to see the new growth on the perennials, the bulbs push through the ground and the buds start to swell on many of the deciduous shrub.

For those interested, the top and bottom pictures are of Sedums, the middle photo is of Alliums sprouting.

JACK FROST NIPPING AT YOUR NOSE

2007-12-26T10:16:00.000-08:00

Vinca minor 'compacta'

Fallen leaves of Acer palmatum 'Sango Kaku' (Coral Bark Maple)

Viburnum davidii

We were delighted to have a white Christmas here in the Northwest. It snowed for a few hours yesterday just enough to cover the ground and make it pretty. From what I hear it's one in twenty years that it snows on Christmas in my area. We don't get snow to often but one thing we do get a lot of is frosts, especially from Nov. 1st to March 15th. Usually they happen between rainstorms. I'll have to say I do like them. There is something very beautiful to me about having everything sugar coated. I do have to be cognisant about putting out annuals to early, but generally I'm very good about being patient and waiting. The textural photos above are a few examples from the other day. The center pictures is of some fall leaves. Some may ask why I haven't raked them up. Well, as long as they are not on the lawn or covering evergreen perennials and shrubs I let Mama Nature do her thing and use it as a mulch. In addition to protecting any deciduous plants it helps keep the weeds down.

WINTER SOLTICE

2007-12-21T16:41:00.000-08:00

Tonight Winter officially starts and for many it translates to cold weather and snow. Here in the Seattle Sound area we are blessed to have a milder Winter than most. I am always thankful for that, and when I forget, all I have to do is turn on the television and watch the evening news when broadcasting what the weather is like in other parts of the world. Attached is a picture from my garden during a recent snow fall. We only get a few a year and generally they are always under 6 inches and melt in a few days. With the picture is a wonderful poem about Winter from one of my favourite writers.

Enjoy and Happy Winter.

For those that hate Winter remember that the days are getting longer now and before you know it Spring green well be surrounding you in your garden :)

We give thanks for the blessing of Winter:
Season to cherish the heart.
To make warmth and quiet for the heart.
To make soups and broths for the heart.
To cook for the heart and read for the heart.
To curl up softly and nestle with the heart.
To sleep deeply at one with the heart.
To dream with the heart.
To spend time with the heart.
A long, long time of peace with the heart.
We give thanks for the blessings of Winter:
Season to cherish the heart.
- Michael Leunig

BARK

2007-12-10T20:53:00.001-08:00

Well, all the leaves are brown and the sky is gray, to quote a song. Life has been busy with all the holidays, visiting family and a exciting new job. The garden is sitting silent in its winter slumber and there is a lot of barren dirt showing where perennials and annuals once flourished.
During this time of year in scanning the local foliage and fauna I find my eyes gravitating to the bark on trees. Often they go unnoticed because they are covered with summer foliage or we focus on their amazing canopies of these beautiful plants instead of their incredible trunks. Winter is a perfect time to enjoy the wrapping of some of our favourite trees, and with the background of snow or the gray of a cloudy December sky it only enhances their viewing. I have selected several photos to illustrate the wonderful texture and colour of a few trees in the neighborhood.
It is always a gentle reminder that even in a flowerless garden, or one filled with many deciduous plants, that there is always something interesting to study and enjoy.

CALENDER IN THE WORKS

2007-11-24T10:49:00.000-08:00

It's seems that when one looks forward to life slowing down a bit that it actually gets busier. That is definitely the case for me. This weekend I will try to finish the end of season clean up in the garden and the 2008 edition of the BOBSGARDEN.COM calendar. That being said, I thought that it would be nice to share the pictures of last years calendar. The photos were selected to coincide with their bloom time or the celebration of a holiday during that month (i.e. red in February for Valentines Day, green in March for St. Patty's day, etc). All pictures are of the garden during different times of the year.

COVER

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

JULY

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

Even though putting together the calendar is a lot of work, it is something I do really enjoy. And for friends and family it is something that is look forward to, certainly making all the effort worth while.

IN THEIR PRIME

2007-11-12T15:59:00.000-08:00

In a final installment of the series "When Autumn leaves Fall" I've selected several photographs of trees in the neighborhood. These shots were taken 2 weeks ago at the peek of their colour. Since then, they have succumb to our Northwest rain and wind storms. Now, after serving their purpose, they litter the ground, fill gutters and storm drains, and hopefully compost piles returning to the dirt to nurture the trees they came from.
I feel very lucky to have captured them in their prime and truly enjoy sharing them with you.
All the best of Autumn to you all, Bob

A PLACE TO REFLECT

2007-11-06T17:44:00.000-08:00

The final days of our Indian Summer were this last weekend, so I figured I'd take a stroll in the Yao Japanese Garden located in the Bellevue Botanical Garden and enjoy the end of Autumn. I have always been a big fan of Japanese gardens. It always seems that when I frequent them, that they completely ground me. Most Japanese gardens are not filled with riots of blooming colour, but with carefully placed plant material and layer upon layer of foliage colour and texture. Maybe that's what touches me is all the greenery, but in any case, they are tranquil and special, and I really enjoy them.

I find that Japanese gardens are incredible all year long. In Winter, the beautiful structure of the deciduous trees and shrubs are shown and accented with evergreens and bamboos. In Spring, all the rhody's and azaleas are in bloom in mounds of colourful displays. In Summer, the Maples and other trees are fully leafed out sheltering drifts of ferns and other complements. And in Fall, the trees have changed the coats in a serene Autumnal display and mosses carpets the ground in emerald splendor.
The Yao Japanese Gardens and others like it always bring me back to reflect, to contemplate, to dream. They create a beautiful place where the natural process of life seems to slow down. Certainly something more of we all can use in our hurried busy lives.

STARS IN AUTUMN

2007-11-01T16:33:00.000-07:00

In the craziness of Spring and Summer our thoughts when visiting the local nurseries are focused on the beautiful colour. We walk in, being greeted with drifts of bountiful floral displays, rows of new starts promising immediate flowers in weeks and impulse treasures waiting for purchase. It's hard not to be mesmerized by all the perennials and annuals in full bloom ready to be added to our gardens for instant gratification. I love going to nurseries at this time of year and relish in all the excitement, really enjoying all the sights and sounds. In all this hustle and bustle though, it easy to forget about what's going to be of interest when all the flowers are gone. What's going to add that little something special towards the Autumn months. Sure there are some fall bloomers like Japanese Anemones, reblooming Bearded Iris, Phygelius, and others. But what is going to add that punch to our often tired retiring borders?

This is where Autumn shrubs come in to play. Few of us would even consider a Euonymus alatus (Burning bush) in Spring unless we saw what it colours up to in Fall. And what about Fothergillia? It's a attractive shrubs that has pretty little honey scented flowers. A very nice plant, but when Fall comes around. Wow! The leaves come on fire. This list of the Autumn treasures can go on and on.

I often feel that Fall shrubs come in more colour combination then trees. I look around in my own yard and that of the neighborhood and see so much variety. Maybe it's because the shrubs are more at eye level. But in any case, you can really find a leaf colour in every shade of an Autumn sunset.

The colour variations can be incredible. Even on one plant. Take the Rose Glow Barberry pictures above. At it's peak in natures transformation it has leaves in lemon yellows and pumpkin oranges, peaches and apricots, melons and apples reds. Nature deliciously paints in the most amazing colours.

So next time you are at your local nurseries or garden centers in Spring and Summer, after you have selected some annuals and perennials. Remember that some of those basic, plain Jane, green foliage shrubs, looking rather drab and ordinary, often turn into brilliant stars in Autumn.

THE BEST DESIGNER I KNOW

2007-10-26T14:26:00.000-07:00

With Fall in full glory I often keep my perspective looking out or up enjoying all the colour on the trees and shrubs. But the other day while looking down I discover a nice surprise right before my feet. The above photo is of fallen leaves on my deck. The leaves randomly found their way to this outdoor living space and created a beautiful collage of texture and form. The leaves belong to several large potted maples that are on the deck and natures placement was perfect. In studying it I really felt this would make a great photo for hanging or maybe a pattern for a textile like wallpaper or fabric.
The leaves belong to Acer shirasawanum 'Aureum ' ( the brown leaves), Acerpalmatum 'Sango Kaku' (the yellow leaves), and Acer palmatum 'unknown hybridus' ( the red leaves).

This picture really made me think and realize how nature influences so many things we surround ourselves with. From furniture to textiles, paint colours to interiors, the list is endless.

Nature is the best designer I know.

WHEN AUTUMN LEAVES START TO FALL

2007-10-23T18:27:00.000-07:00

The next few posts will feature the beautiful fall colour in the area. In the Northwest (especially in the Sound area) we don't have the Autumn colour like that of the Northeast. But we do get some beautiful Fall foliage, and it's generously accented with our abundant evergreens and conifers.

For many, Fall is a time trepidation. Some people hate to see the lengthening shadows of Autumn, knowing that the sun is slowly retreating to the South, bathing gardeners below the equator with longer days. Others know that Winters grip will soon be upon us. We all can recall recent cold Winters were the garden lies dormant, and we wait anxiously for the Springs warming sunshine. For me, I love Fall. I love sweaters and warm layers of clothing. I love the crisp chilly air and my nose being cold. I love sitting by a fire with loved ones drinking coffee ( the main liquid refreshment of this Seattle area) or cocoa and sharing the days goings on. I love to be able to make pot roasts, soups, stews and other meals that warm the body and heart. I love to bake and enjoy sweet goodies and not worry about heating up the house with the oven. I love flannel and corduroy and leather jackets and all fall clothing. I love all the new plant catalogs that are arriving daily, seeing whats new in plants and seeds. I love Fall bulbs, and know for me they can be a real addiction. I love Autumn leaves on the road and with a gentle breeze watch them dance across the it. And I especially love Fall leaves. It is truly amazing to see a leaf start out green and transform into a myriad of the most incredible colours.

Autumn is a wonderful time of year. Lets all enjoy the beauty of the season and savor all it has to offer.

The above photos are of some of the views from my backyard. Through out the year, and especially in Autumn, the clouds condense and squeeze against the mountains to the East while to the West it is clear. Giving me many evening where rays of the setting sun high light the Cottonwoods, Alders, and Conifers.

PAIRINGS TOO

2007-10-16T17:59:00.000-07:00

In a second installment of "pairings" I wanted to focus more on foliage combinations. Flowers are an integral part of a garden but I really do love foliage combinations because they look good for the greater part of the year.
Unfortunately it is getting late in the season and much of the garden is starting to head towards it's Winter slumber. I don't have many shots and these were actually taken several weeks ago, but their are still some that I thought were of value.
I apologize about the length between posts. I have been busy with company and with tucking the garden in for the season. Here's wishing you all the best of Autumn.

Helictotrichon sempervirens, Iris foetidissima varigata, and Sedum spectabile 'Brilliant'

Spirea japonica 'Magic Carpet' and Berberis thunbergii 'Rose Glow'

Stachys byzantina and Lamium galeaobdolon 'Hermann's Pride'

HARDY CYCLAMEN

2007-10-08T18:22:00.000-07:00

Autumn has arrived in Northwest with the typical cool rain and wind. Between storms we Northwest gardeners work feverously to clean up what we can. There is cutting down the perennials, weeding, putting down mulch, all the the traditional chores of seasonal climate gardening.
While working today I spotted the Hardy Cyclamens in bloom. I've had these for a number of years and they always delight me when I see them in colour. They are nestled beside several of the hydrangeas in the yard, actually somewhat hidden unless one was looking, and are very sweet and delicate in colour and form. Furnished with a soft fragrance somewhat reminiscent of old fashion violets, they bloom in late Fall till early Winter. There are many species, several that bloom other times of the year, but mine I believe is Cyclamen hederifolium a late season bloomer.
The blossoms make their appearance first followed by beautiful foliage. The leaves are uniquely marbled with silver and different shades of green and they alone make this bulb worthy of a place in any garden. Being one of the most reliable Hardy Cyclamen, it has been even known to show great vigor and reseed.
C. hederifolium is considered one of the most cold tolerant of Cyclamens easily handling temperatures to Zone 3 (-40c).

Like Crocus in Spring or the Hardy Cyclamen in Fall it is often these small charming bulbs that enamour us so when the weathers chilly.

CALIBRACHOA

2007-10-04T14:47:00.000-07:00

As many of the Summer annuals begin to decline and Springs colour is long gone its nice to count on a few garden troopers who energetically bloom until the first frost. One plant I count on is a newer plant to gardens these days --- Calibrachoa (Million Bells). Gaining popularity in the last 5 years and not really showing up at the nurseries until the mid 90's, Calibrachoa is fast becoming a trend plant.

It comes in a myriad of colours and has the look of a diminutive petunia. In fact many botanist don't see enough difference in it to give it it's own separate genus. Because of it's small stature it has become the darling of mixed hanging baskets as well as window boxes and has the added benefit of the long blooming period, crescendoing in Autumn.
Calibrachoa is not only for container gardening. It works well in between other fall bloomers like Asters, Mums, Ornamental Cabbage and Kale, and Autumnal foliage in the mixed borders. Personally I prefer it where it can cascade out of urn or hanging basket. This way you can really see how it got it's common name 'Million Bells'. Even garden designers have taken note of this plant. Using it in Autumn colours and incorporating it with branches, fall foliage, pumpkins, gourds in large urns making a festive and spectacular presentation greeting guests at the front door. You can see that it really has many uses.

Calibrachoe is self cleaning, meaning you don't have to dead head, likes full sun and responds well to bi-monthy applications of a mild all purpose fertilizer. It is actually considered a perennial in very warm climates but is generally grown as an annual in most gardens.

I have created a new look for BOBSGARDEN.COM. In addition to having larger print to make it easier to read I have acquired some new software for my photography. I'm resizing them to where they will boot up quicker for you all. I hope you enjoy the new changes, BOB

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2007-09-30T18:38:00.001-07:00

IN MY GARDEN (IMG)

2007-09-30T17:11:00.000-07:00

There have been several recent posts about things gardeners do not want in their gardens (NIMG). I have gotten enjoyment out of these posts and decided to post to a same topic but with a twist.

I have never been a big fan of yard art. Not that I feel it's a horrible thing, it's just that I have always been a big lover of plant material and the yard art is very secondary to me. Now don't get me wrong thinking that it shouldn't be in someones yard, I feel in the right place and with a sentimental value it a wonderful thing.
On that note, I have always felt a connection to the natural world and all yard accessorizes I have in my garden have some kind of connection of nature or about nature.

(IMG) I like incorporating occasion pieces of wood that I have found on hikes or on travels. Most have interesting shapes and features and remind me of the location they were found or the person I was with.

(IMG) I love bugs and critters and have often heard that crickets and dragonflies are good luck. So I have a cricket nestled in a pot of saxafragia and a dragonfly bell that gently rings in the breeze.

(IMG) I have a leaf motif going through my entire house. So when I find something a little different and unique for the garden with a leaf on it I find a place for it. Plus in Lower Issaquah Height (the mountain ridge I live on) there is often a wonderful breeze. The chimes are a joy to work by and beautifully add to the sounds of the many birds in the area.

(IMG) I don't have any lighting in my garden currently, so in continuing with the leaf motif, I have glass leaf luminaries lighting the garden during evening get-togethers or for quite meditative moments of solace.

(IMG) And finally I have two decorative stepping stones in my garden. One of course made with the imprints of maple and oak leaves. The other, pictures above, has the sentiment that I often remind myself of, "Sow with patience, Reap a full harvest". Wonderful words to live by... don't you think?

CAPE FUSHIA

2007-09-25T18:39:00.000-07:00

Phygelius 'Moonraker'

Phygelius 'Pink Sensation'

Phygelius 'Devil's Tears'

A while back I posted a picture of Cape Fuchsia (Phygelius) and had several positive comments about this wonderful perennial so I figured I'd feature it.

This hardy perennial is native to South Africa where it does not die down in their mild winters. In my area ( I'm located at the bottom of it's hardiness range at Zone 8a --- roughly 15f/-9c) it dies almost to the ground before re surging in Spring. All thou it has Fuchsia in it's common name and has a fuchsia look, it's actually in the Scrophulariaceae family being closely related to penstemon. In the past few years it has been hybridized to create many new exciting colours.
It has been growing in popularity the past decade because it blooms for months and has very few pests. In my area it starts blooming in June and goes strong till the first hard frost, the end of October for me. Phygelius grows to 3 to 4 feet (1.2 meters) and spreads by underground runners and prostrate branches to the same width. It is easily divided if it get out of hand.
I like to pair it with daisy-like flowers creating a very easy casual look. Finally the reddish and darker pink varieties are highly attractive to hummingbirds.

SIMPLE THINGS

2007-09-21T16:58:00.001-07:00

Wondering through the garden today seeing what's blooming, what's going dormant, and how many weeds I'll be pulling this weekend, I came across several pots of dwarf dahlias I planted months ago. Unfortunately I've had these dahlias off to the side of the garden not really giving them much attention. We all have them, those plants placed in the yard that are a little neglected and often not the focus compared to the more showcased areas. We occasionally throw some water and fertilizer their way and kind of forget them.
So here is this little flower standing so proud and tall in it's 8" plastic pot. In the afternoon sun it's rich red petals seemed to glow really grabbing my attention. And though this diminutive flower is only about an inch across, it was the brightest star of the garden today. I admired it for the longest time, the more I studied it the more I discovered. It was the most perfect flower.
It reminded me that sometimes in our hurried lives, we're often looking for the biggest or the best, the showiest or the latest, and we need those gentle reminders to remind us that "it is often the simple things in life that are the sweetest". Isn't is amazing what a small dahlia can do!

SIGNS OF AUTUMN

2007-09-16T18:36:00.000-07:00

With a gentle fall rain and cooler temperatures, I can really see
signs of Autumn in the air.

Clusters of Fall colour I place around the house.

Spiders busy making webs.

Many of the annuals and perennial setting seed.

Some of the Fall bulbs for next Springs colour

Flats of Pansies, Ornamental Cabbage and Kale sprouted
soon to go out in the garden

The fall Asters starting to bloom.

The garden starting to be filled with berries.

The Maples showing their Autumn colour.

HELENIUM AUTUMNALE

2007-09-12T16:52:00.000-07:00

Native to Eastern North America Helenium is a valuable "end of the season" bloomer, starting to flower in August and continuing until October. It's name translates to Autumn Sun which is an appropriate name for the much underused perennial.

There are many species of Helenium but Helenium autumnale is by far the most used and best species of this plant group. Through hybridization Heleniums have been crossed to create flowers in many colours. From yellows to golds, rusts to siennas, even burgundies and mixed combination in between, Heleniums come in a beautiful fall colour assortment. There are tall hybrids perfect for back of the border locations and dwarf cultivars that are ideal for up close viewing.

Heleniums require full sun, great drainage and occasional water in Summer. They practically need no fertilizing and grow wonderfully with one application of a general all purpose fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season. Make sure to mark your plants. When they come up in Spring they really look like weeds, it's easy to confuse them and pull the wrong plant.

Their common name is Sneezeweed, it comes from years ago when the dried nearly mature flowers were ground and made into a powder, then snorted for the treatment of colds and headaches. Thank goodness for modern medicine!

Heleniums are a great addition to your Autumn garden and pair beautifully with Rudbeckias, Sedums, Ornamental grasses, Caryopteris, Purple Asters, and Shrub Roses filled orange rose hips.

CRAWLING ON THE GROUND, I SEE-DUM

2007-09-11T19:04:00.000-07:00

Sedum rupesta 'Angelina'

Sedum spathulifolium 'Cape Blanco'

Sedum acre

Sedum reflexum 'Blue Spruce'

With all the talk about global warming and conserving our natural resources I thought it was timely to share on some plants that require minimal amount of care, water, and fertilizing, yet really preforms well. In the Seattle area we are very conscience of our water and though we get over 50" of rain annual we are a very water wise community. Our raining season start in October and ends in April/May but from several months we see very little measurable rain. Even if we get an occasional Summer storm it's not enough to really deeply water any plant.

Sedum idon't-recallus

Sedum 'Bertram Anderson' in bud

Sedum 'Bertram Anderson' full flower

Sedums are a wonderful plant group that are members of the Crassulaceae Family. The family largely consists of succulents or succulent type plants. Being native to many parts of the world you really get a tremendous variety of shapes and sizes. This post well dwell on ground cover types and next week I'll share on upright growers. As mentioned before Sedums require little care and only need a minimal amount of attention. Generally full sun and great drainage is a must. They grow much better in soil that is not overly enriched.
There is practically nothing that bothers them. And usually any difficulties come from cultural situations, like to much overhead sprinkler watering (which can make them rot). Sometimes they can be a little aggressive but they are easy to pull up (they have all surface roots and don't spread by invasive underground runners). All the Sedums from my yard are very hardy to Zone 2 (-20c).

Sedum spurium 'Dragons Blood' and 'Tricolour'

Sedum seiboldii 'October Daphne'

Sedums are perfect for that area that doesn't get much water or next to a walk way in the full hot sun that's difficult to water. Even tucked in a sunny rock garden is perfect for these little gems. I hope you'll make a place for these trend plants that are not only easy care but also easy on our natural resources.

OXALIS

2007-09-08T17:19:00.000-07:00

Today I was working diligently in the yard trying to catch up on the weeds. It seems that they continually out pace me. It was just a few weeks ago that I had cleaned up some of the beds and now the weeds are all back. While pulling countless clover I recalled how ironic it was that earlier in the season I had purchased some ornamental types and planted them.

A little background information on Clovers. There are two plants that go by clover. First, there is Oxalis, which is a member of the Oxalidaceae family. Then, there is Trifolium, which is in the Fabaceae family. Trifolium is a legume so it can take nitrogen from the air and fix it in the soil through bacteria action on their roots, Oxalis can not. Both Oxalis and Trifolium often go by the common name Clover. Both have species that can be invasive and become a weed. Both have foliage that look very similar, it's the flower that makes it easy to distinguish the two apart. It all can be very confusing, but it's times like these that the botanical names are helpful.

The two ornamental Oxalis that I have pictured are Oxalis siliguosa 'Sunset Velvet' (top picture) and Oxalis regnellii atropupurea (bottom photo on the right). What a mouthful! Rated hardy to zone 8 (which is what I am) both have attractive uniquely coloured foliage. I paired them with Heuchera 'Peach Flambe' creating a tonal combination that I really like. O. regnellii is sometimes sold as a purple shamrock. Oxalis prefers moist soil in a shady or dappled light location. They really don't have any pests to speak of, and any difficulties usually come from cultural conditions. I'm hoping these will fill in nicely in a year or two, because these 2 cultivars are not know to be invasive let alone aggressive.
Here is an interesting link that shows O. regnellii growing. I hope you'll enjoy it.

ZINNIAS

2007-09-03T17:33:00.000-07:00

I have often been called upon to teach the garden classes at the Nursery that I currently work at. These are 2 hours presentations on many topics from bulbs to curb appeal, lawns to container gardening. From time to time I have the opportunity to teach second graders about plants. The classes are always brief to accommodate their short attention spans and although my schedule is sometimes limited, I always look forward to these classes.
I love kids (I don't have any that I know of) and I love the wonderment they have of all things that grow. Often, I would use Zinnias as an example to speak on plant life. At the end of the class we would plant Zinnia seeds in 4''pots and the kids get to take them. I choose Zinnias because they germinate so fast and in no time at all they would be blooming. The kids get so excited to take them home. It was as if I'd given them something so amazing. It's truly beautiful how, a little pot of seeds, something so simple, brings such joy.

To this day I still enjoy growing Zinnias. They are practically fail safe. And like a kid, I still check the Zinnias I sow everyday to see which ones have germinated. Now at the beginning of September I go out daily to see what colours are in bloom. I marvel at these simple yet stately flowers that attract bees and butterflies and come in some many wonderful colours. And like a second grader, I still smile and feel joy when I see them grow.
I guess a 4" pot of Zinnias is pretty amazing!

Zinnias are a member of the Asteraceae Family and are named after the German Botanist Dr. Johann Zinn. He was the first to describe this Americas native. Through hybridization Zinnias come in many shapes and sizes. From inches tall to 5 footers and just about every colour other than true blue. Zinnias like full sun and great drainage. Deadheading every so often will keep them blooming as well as monthly applications of a general all purpose fertilizer. Full sun and great air circulations also is something they like and helps prevent any fungus amungus.

PAIRINGS

2007-08-29T15:40:00.000-07:00

A selection of different plant pairings in my garden that I wanted to share. I love putting these types of combos together. It does not always turn out well, but when it does, it's great.

Delphinium 'Blue Fountains' and Rudbeckia 'Goldstrum'

Nepeta x faassenii 'Select Blue' and Stachys byzantina

Dwarf Dahlias and Fall Asters

Fall Asters and Phegelius 'Moonraker'

Oriental Lillies 'LaReve' and Lychnis coronaria

Delphinium 'Pacific Giant' and Crocosmia 'Lucifer'

Heuchera 'Citronella' and New Guinea Impatiens

The pairings are selected on colour and texture, height and size, form and growing conditions.

ANNIVERSARY

2007-08-26T17:22:00.001-07:00

At looking at the calender I realized that it is my blog anniversary. One year old today. So in reflecting on the past year as one often does on birthdays and anniversaries, I believe I have learned a lot. I'm a better photographer ( thank God for the 'easy to use' 'point and shot' digital cameras these days). I'm a better speller (spell check is my best friend). The parallels of the growth of the garden and my life are similar. The garden has changed and grown like I have. There are new additions to the yard, I have made many new friends this year. Some plants have gone, I had a relationship end, a loved one moved on. The garden has weathered many storms like I have. And still we both grow. Branches have broken but we still continue to reach up, and we still grow forward new branches. Life's daily drama is played out in the garden. The drama of existence has it way, but we still both grow. So on this anniversary day I remember the growth of the year. I look forward to new beginnings, I'll celebrate old and new friends. As demonstrated in my garden, I'll enjoy the natural process of life. And as always, I will continue to count my blessing :)

HARDY FUCHSIA

2007-08-25T19:17:00.000-07:00

Here is a new member to Bobs Garden, the Hardy Fuchsia. This hybrid is called 'Pat's Dream'. The tags reads its a cultivar that has escaped from the hanging basket, and taken its rightful place in the mixed border. The tag also mentions that it's hardy to zero to ten degrees (-17c to -12c) as well as it grows to 3 feet by 3 feet (roughly a meter by a meter). Having always been a fuchsia fan, I'll be anxious to see how it preforms. So far its bloomed for three months and is really flourishing in the shady location its planted in. I have met several gardeners in the area that have had great luck with Hardy Fuchsias, so I'll keep you posted on how well it does.

TIGRIDIA

2007-08-21T17:26:00.000-07:00

I have been growing Tigridia pavonia (Mexican Shell Flower) off and on for years. It's a bulb that is native to Mexico and I really enjoy the very different almost orchid like look it has. Far from the Orchid family, Trigridia is a member of the Iris family and is closely related to the Gladiola. The foliage resembles that of a Gladiola but more delicate, and the flowers grow on a thin stalk with generally 3 to 5 flowers opening individually. Each 5 to 6 inch flower only lasts one day but the blooming period for this plant lasts for about 4 weeks.
I grow mine in pots because they are only hardy to 20 degrees. Instead of digging them in Fall before dormancy I simply let the pots dry out and store them in my garage or protected area until the weather warms in Spring. This is a great trick with many none cold hardy bulbs like Ixia, Freesia, and Sparaxis. Plus all these bulbs like to be dry during dormancy.
Tigridia prefers full sun and ample water. It can get spider mites which I take care of with systemic pesticide and fertilizer combo. I don't mind using something so strong because it stays in the pot. I do this on other potted plants that might be susceptible to thrips, aphids, spider mites, etc. Basically it prevents any chewing, chomping, or sucking insects.

Tigridia is a wonderful bulb that should find a place in any garden.

EVERYTHING YOU WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT SUNFLOWERS

2007-08-17T19:55:00.000-07:00

Besides sharing some pictures of my Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) I wanted to share some fun facts about them. I hope you well Enjoy.

The name Sunflower originates from the Greek word 'helios' meaning Sun and 'anthos' meaning Flower.
The large petals around the edge of the Sunflower are ray flowers which do not produce a seed. Sunflower heads consist of 1000 to 2000 individual flowers
joined together by a receptacle base.

Native to North America, Sunflowers have been grown as a food crop for
1000's of years by the Indians.

Sunflowers in bud stage exhibit heliotropism. Which means they follow the sun.

Sunflowers are in the Asteraceae family. Which is the second largest plant family
with 20,000 members.

Sunflowers when mature yield up to 40% of their weight in oil.

Sunflower stems were used to fill life jackets before the advent of modern materials.

Floating rafts of Sunflowers are being used to clean up water contaminated as a result of the 1986 accident Chernobyl Nuclear Plant. The roots of sunflowers remove up to 95% of the radioactivity in the water by pulling contaminants out of the water.

MEXICAN SUNFLOWER

2007-08-15T20:31:00.000-07:00

Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia roundifolia) is about the orangest flower I grow. I can't even think of another flower that has such a strong saturated orange colour. Every year I grow this annual from seed to add some late summer into fall flowers in the garden. They bloom until the first frost, require infrequent watering, butterflies and hummingbirds enjoy them, and make a wonderful cut flower. This hybrid is 'Goldfinger' and it has the boldest colour of all the hybrids available today.

AGASTACHE

2007-08-13T19:39:00.000-07:00

In the past I posted about Agastaches but wanted to share some of this years photos. The top is Agastache foeniculum (Anise Hyssop), it's a wonderful easy care perennial requiring full sun, great drainage and has foliage that smells like licorice. The bottom picture is of Agastache mexicana 'Acupulco Orange'. Like A. foeniculum it prefers full sun and wonderful drainage but it's leaves smell lemony. In addition, both are drought tolerant when established and are deer resistant. Butterflies, Bees, Hummingbirds are attracted to their colourful flowers, and both start blooming in mid-summer and go till the first frost. Dead heading is not necessary, but occasionally removing spent spikes keeps Agastache looking its best. A. foeniculum is the hardier of two tolerating temperatures down to -20 degrees while 'Acupulco Orange' is hardy down to zero.

I really enjoy both of these plants. Not only for their beauty but also for their fragrant foliage for which I love. When I'm near these plants I always take a leaf or two, crush it, and enjoy the aroma. And when guests are touring the garden I always tear a few leaves and share. It's a nice surprise. Wonderful smelling foliage is always a bonus, it really adds an additional element.

BRUNNERA MACROPHYLLA 'LOOKING GLASS'

2007-08-11T19:13:00.000-07:00

Shady areas of the garden are often filled with an assortment of foliage plants like ferns, hostas, camellias, or even a wonderful collections of woodland plants. Unfortunately this leaves these areas filled only with different shades of green. Now don't get me wrong, I love green. But under a tree canopy or on the north side of the house all green can make for a very dark landscape. There is the occasion blooms of azaleas and rhodys, camellias and hydrangeas, but when those plant are not in colour what going to add that pop.
One solution is the featured plant Brunnera. Growing comfortable with all the traditional shade favourites Bunnera macrophylla 'Looking Glass' shines brightly even in the dullest or darkest landscape. Growing about 18' inches high and wide this plant enjoys the same conditions as most shade loving plants. It's very hardy and is not bothered by many pests. The
occasion slug well try to take a chomp on them but they don't seem to care for them. It's probably because of the course hair that covers this plants leaves.
Even in the early morning or at dust, this plant glows brightly. The foliage has a silvery white sheen that seems to reflect light. An added feature is the blue forget-me-not flowers in Spring which are very charming. Brunnera is in the Boraginaceae Family (the forget-me-not family) and is native to woodland areas of Eastern Europe.

SMALL, MEDIUM, LARGE

2007-08-07T20:41:00.000-07:00

Small---Creeping Zinnia (Sanvitalia procumbens) is a low growing Mexican native that's easily started from seed. This plants grows about a foot across and a few inches high. I sprouted them because I like the flowers, which look like little sunflowers, and as a understudy for some of the shrubs and perennials in the garden. The tiny flowers are roughly the size of a large blueberry. Very sweet!

Medium---Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldstrum' is a staple of the sun perennial border. It's easy care, blooms for weeks, has few pests, and is really a tough plant. It can take a lot of abuse and keeps on going. The only challenge I have with it is that it does to well. Every 3 years I have to aggressively divide it, because it's so vigorous.

Large---Sunflowers (Helianthus Hybridus Idon'tknowus) are one of my favourite summer annuals. Easy to start, easy to grow, wonderful cut flowers, many colours, birds love them as well as we humans. They provide beauty, food, and cooking oil.
Whats not to love!

HYDRANGEAS AT THEIR PEAK

2007-08-05T15:03:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful day yesterday, one of those chamber of commerce days, where the temperature was perfect with a slight breeze in the air. The gardens is all a buzz and a flutter with bees and birds, and the ornamental grass are tall and sway hypnotically in the wind. An occasional puffy cloud would meander over adding a little shade while I was toiling away in the garden. Many of springs glorious bloomers have long faded and have been cut down or have declined making room for summers bountiful colour. Sitting on my deck enjoying this magical moment I realized how mesmerized I was on the intense colour the Hydrangeas have become.
From the whitiest whites to pinks and lavenders. All shades of blue from sky to electric to royal. And lets not forget the purples, which to me are so vivid they almost look painted. This area produces some of the nicest hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla for those who are interested) I have ever seen. Depending on the hybrid, I have seen these plant from a diminutive 2 footers to mammoths of 8 feet. The maritime climate really bring out the best in these plants. Plus as an added feature if there wasn't already enough, the flowers are great for cutting once they have hardened off. These plants really are a joy to have in the garden.
Soon fall will be here and these intense colours will change. So for now I will remember what a beautiful day yesterday was and the Hydrangeas at their peak.

Many thanks to my neighbor for letting me take a couple of photos of her hydrangeas.
The top 2 pictures are hers. They are really beautiful.

COMBINATIONS 3

2007-08-03T17:19:00.001-07:00

I wanted to revisit these pictures that I posted about last year and share some thoughts. These are photos of my front yard and they perfectly display some design techniques that learned in college many years ago. I've shared several times of the importance of mixing contrasting textures and colours in the garden beds. As you can see, needle like foliage is paired with succulent leaves, grasses paired with larger leafed plants. One plant contrast next to another.
In the foliage colours, gray-greens next to dark greens, burgundy next to pine green next to bronze. Switching it up helps define each plants space and individual characteristic.
Even growth forms are varied. Upright plants next to mounding, spiky next to arching. Mixing all these components helps make each plant stand out. All the plants are located in grouping or drifts. As I have often said in the past while teaching design "there is strength in numbers". Planting in groups well helps solidify a yard and gives it weight and structure.

I hope some of these ideas while inspire and would love to hear what has worked well for you in your garden.

EVENING

2007-08-02T16:17:00.000-07:00

Here's a photo of a sunflower in the garden catching the last rays of sunshine.
In the near future I'll share more sunflower shots.
All the best, BOB

MORE ON HEUCHERAS

2007-07-31T19:01:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share some more photos and thoughts on Heucheras. The above picture is a newer hybrid called 'Citronella'. It's similar to the hybrid 'Lime Rickey' (which has been around for a few years) but I find that the leaves are larger and a paler chartreuse, more of a lemon-lime sorbet colour. Citronella as well as Lime Rickey are shade Heucheras not tolerating any hot afternoon sun. They work very well in a location under a open canopy. Planted in amongst dark green foliage and strong contrasting saturated coloured flowers shows off their unique shade.

Rosewood, Cinnabar, and Peach best describe the tones in my current favourite Huechera 'Peach Flambe'.
It can take more sun than 'Citronella' and performs best in a morning sun / afternoon shade location. Both Huecheras should be hardy with adequate mulching and I find cleaning up and replanting every so many year keeps Heucheras vigorous. 'Peach Flambe' is an unusual colour and has to be located carefully. It works well with other shade plants that have a gray tone ( like Hostas), and any peach or apricot coloured flower. Even red-violet, plum and burgundy coloured foliage and flowers complement this plant. With all the different Heucharas in the garden, I find they are not bothered by any disease or pests (even slugs and snails). As with many plants of their stature occasion light fertilization of any basic organic fertilizer or fish emulsion works great. In winter 'Peach flambe' foliage turns to plum, adding an extra quality to this plant.
Sound pretty delicious to me!

VERBENA BONARIENSIS

2007-07-29T14:00:00.000-07:00

For years I have had Verbena bonariensis growing in the garden. I've kept it around because it has a see thru quality to it that I really like, and it meshes in beautifully in the mixed borders. I'm right on the cusp of how hardy it is, so some of them don't winter over. But fortunately it self seeds readily so I'm never really without any. Every year it volunteers in different places which I like. It's always a little surprise. Any that pop up in unwanted areas are easily removed. The colour is close to liatris ( although looking paler in this picture) so it really adds small punches of colour where ever it blooms. Butterflies and Hummingbirds love it, so just on that alone I would keep it in the garden. After the seedlings reach 6 inches high they require very little water. This Verbena has a sparse stick like appearance which is why it works so well with other tall perennials, blending in with them, not detracting from them.

BUSY AS A BEE

2007-07-26T19:04:00.001-07:00

I have been busy as bee, Bumble bee that is, and this evening saw this little guy keeping busy enjoying the great weather we are having. The flower he is on is a Zinnia I started from seed called "Purple Prince". It's more of dark pink than purple, of course the seed packets never really get the correct colour on the picture. It's amazing what a little photo enhancement will do to sell a few extra seeds. But still, love starting plants from seed. It's a lot of fun and very economical. When I was thirteen I use to start Cinerarias from seed and bring them up to a finished 6" pot and sell them to local florist shops in the area I grew up in. I guess I've had the garden bug in my blood for a long time. There is something so special about seeing something start from seed and watching it grow.
To this day I still have the same excitement, and I know it's something I won't out grow :)

ECHINOPS

2007-07-24T18:14:00.001-07:00

I'm often asked if I have a favourite flower. I usually respond that I really enjoy all plants, from Geraniums to Orchids (of which I use to grow commercially for 12 years). But, in giving it some thought I realized that I do have some I prefer more than others. Echinops (Globe Thistle-- Echinops exaltatus) has to be near the top of the "preferred" list. It has some wonderful qualities that get it there. First, I love the look of it. It's like blue golf balls on a stick or a cactus on a stem. Second, it's an easy care full sun perennial that can go undivided for years. Third, it's really not bothered by diseases, bugs and is super hardy.
It's so different looking. Who would of thought that this thistle relative that is in the Asteraceae family would look so foreign rather than looking like a daisy. It's just a real cool plant.

Would love to hear about some of your "preferred" plant.

FULL BEDS

2007-07-23T17:12:00.000-07:00

This time of year the garden beds are brimming with foliage and flower. Besides looking full and lush an additional benefits is that little light reaches the soil surface. What's the benefit of this? It means their are fewer weeds in these areas. Why? Because the greater majority of garden weeds need direct sunlight to germinate.
So don't be afraid of really filling in those mixed borders and foundation planting. It not only looks great, but you might have a few less weeds :)

PHLOX

2007-07-22T12:04:00.000-07:00

I have always enjoyed my Summer Phlox (Phlox paniculata). It's continues to be a mainstay in the mixed borders, going strong in the hottest time of year (for us in the Pacific Northwest). I love the spicy fragrance that seem to intensify in the warm July evenings. The hybrids that I've selected are mildew resistant, which can be a problem in our moist climate and are real butterfly magnets.
The only challenge in growing them is that the base joints are weak and can break easily in a down poor or strong wind. As with my peonies, I have support cages for them but always seem to forget to put them out in spring. At least the cages make decorative wall hanging in the garage :/

COMBINATIONS 2

2007-07-16T19:05:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share this combination because of its contrast in leaf colours and foliage forms. Though there is a white Hydrangea in the photo, this combination looks interesting and fresh even when nothing is in bloom. The plants are Brunnera macrophylla 'Looking Glass', Japanese Painted Fern (Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum', Hebes (the plant with the small gray leaves in the back ground, unfortunately I don't recall the type), Cimicifuga japonica, assorted Heucheras, and white Hydrangeas. In the dead of Winter when many of these perennials are dormant this bed is filled with Wanda Primroses (which are dormant now), adding much needed colour in February and March.

ASTILBES

2007-07-15T14:08:00.000-07:00

Some pictures of the Astilbes in bloom. I don't recall the hybrids, because I've had them for a few years and no longer have the tags. Each year they bloom from the end of June till the beginning of August depending on their location. Some are grown mostly in sun and need a lot of water, while others are planted in shade and are less thirsty. The Astilbes that are in sun are little shorter then their counterparts grown in shade and the leaves tend to crisp in our hottest month, which is August. Those grown in the brightest locations are cut back after blooming, flushing out new foliage which looks great until dormancy in Winter.

THURSDAY EVENING

2007-07-12T16:24:00.000-07:00

As with trying to straighten a mop of unruly hair or taming a wild tiger, the garden surges forward in summer splendor.

CEANOTHUS

2007-07-10T16:41:00.000-07:00

In the back part of some of my beds I was looking for a large shrub that had beautiful year round foliage and the added benefit of flowers. Since many of the borders have an organized chaos going on with in them, many with combinations and groupings featuring each plants individual qualities, it's was important to have a back drop that adds a lovely green canvas to showcase the plants before them. Ceanothus was a natural pick. Dark forest green pleated leaves that are evergreen and rich cerulean blue flowers that the bees love. A West Coast native it is hardy in my area and once established requires little Summer water. This full sun plant is a fast grower, obtaining a height of 5 feet from one gallon can in just 3 years. There are many varieties of Ceanothus, from ground covers to large shrubs, dark green foliage to bright green and even variegated forms. The only true draw back about this plant, other that it can become a monster of a plant( so give it some space), is that it's short lived, lasting only 10 years. Unfortunately the picture doesn't really capture how blue these plants can be and other hybrids are in colours from white to cobalt.

ASTRANTIA

2007-07-03T16:33:00.000-07:00

A wonderful little perennial that really performs and won't over take the garden is Astrantia (Masterwort). The common name is not very pretty or descriptive but when in bloom I get more comments on this plant. It's a member of the Apiaceae family, which is the same family carrots, dill, parsnips, and celery share. When looking at the foliage you can see the resemblance to celery leaves. It blooms in shades of white, pink, rose to burgundy, obviously depending on hybrid. Very cold hardy it grows rather slowly. Mine started in 4' pots and after four years had only gotten 18" across. The above pictured is Astrantia major 'Ruby Wedding' which I grow in a mostly sunning location. Flowers stay on for a long time and unlike many of its relatives ( fennel, carrots) it doesn't reseed. Being very versatile it works beautifully with woodland looking plants like Hostas and Heucheras. Or for that English country garden look it blends nicely with Echinaceas, Larkspurs, Delphiniums, and Cosmos.

ANOTHER HARDY GERANIUM

2007-06-29T20:07:00.001-07:00

Another unidentified hardy Geranium in the garden. This one is not a heavy bloomer but what it lacks in flowers it makes up in attractive foliage. If any one recognizes this hybrid please let me know.

JAPANESE FOREST GRASS

2007-06-28T19:10:00.000-07:00

Scattered on my deck is a mixed collection of several different types of plants, all in pots of burgundy in assorted shapes and sizes. Each holds individual plants selected for the foliage or flower, form or texture. I have one filled with Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa macra 'all gold'). It is truly an amazing little grass staying in a nice compact clump ( very very slowly spreading), has striking golden green foliage, and moves gracefully with the softess breeze. It performs great in ground or pots and has few pests. Autunm bring shades of bronze, copper, and gold to its leaves. I recently purchased the better known hybrid 'Aureola' which has green and yellow longitudinal strips. Next year when its been in the ground for a while I'll post about it. Either of these grasses are real keepers and you just can't beat them for a partial shade garden.

LAMBS EAR

2007-06-27T19:00:00.000-07:00

Soft and supple, fuzzy and furry, velvety and flocked, many words come to mind when one sees and feels Lambs Ear (Stachys byzantina). This little herbaceous perennials is often an easy care favourite in many gardens. The hybrid I have is a dwarf variety that tops out at 1o" when in bloom and is always a real joy in the mixed borders.

NECAROSCORDUM

2007-06-26T19:39:00.000-07:00

As promised here is another Allium relative 'Necaroscordum siculum'. With no common name it's really is a mouthful to say and sounds more like a part of the male anatomy than a flower. As with all Alliums it's a Lily Family member. This bulb is one to be planted in with other perennials and shrubs, because it only produce three or four spindly leaves which are not attractive. The flowers are about a 36'' high and are welcomed by bubble bees. This photo was taken at the end of April and as you can see these plants can have a very elegant look to them. Necaroscordum blooms for roughly 5 weeks and then seeds. An added bonus is seed stalks are unique and can be used in dried arrangements.

PHYGELIUS

2007-06-24T18:40:00.000-07:00

The Phygelius are starting to bloom and the hummingbirds are going crazy over it. I'm a little dogged tonight, so I'll post about it and the different hybrids
I have of it in the future.
All the best, Bob

NEPETA

2007-06-23T11:22:00.001-07:00

Nepeta is a real work horse in my garden, blooming months during the Summer and Fall with practically no care. I have it nestled amongst many of my perennials and shrubs filling in with its soft fragrant gray green foliage and beautiful lavender blue flowers. The Nepeta I grow is Catmint (Nepeta x faassenii) which is sterile and is not to be confused with Catnip (Nepeta cataria) which send cats into a crazed frenzy and can reseed. Catmint is easy to maintain in full sun and if it gets a little leggy can be sheered to the ground. This also keeps it compact and encourages re blooming. As with many members of the mint family (Lamiaceae) it has square stems and opposite leaf formation.

COMBINATIONS -- FOLIAGE COLOUR AND FORM

2007-06-22T19:45:00.000-07:00

Throughout this Summer I'll share combinations that I like in my garden. Combinations can really make or break a landscape. It's important to me because I see many gardens with great plants but unfortunately they are placed next to something that distracts from their beauty rather than enhancing it. I hope the "combinations" posts well inspire :)

VIBURNUM PLICATUM

2007-06-19T16:06:00.000-07:00

Certainly one of the most beautiful shrubs in gardens today is this Viburnum. Blooming for roughly 2 months this Viburnum adds colour as well as structure to any garden. Japanese Snowball (Viburnum plicatum) has strong horizontal branch development and is ideal for the back part of a mixed beds, as a informal hedge, or mixed in with other medium sized foundation plantings. Traditional Japanese Snowball (Viburnum plicatum) is sterile, and often confused with its sub-specie Doublefile Viburnum (V. p. tomentosum), which has lace-cap flowers and produces berries. Both are wonderful shrubs. If possible purchase dwarf varieties because these plants can get big. I have mine located next to bright lime green Hostas and chartreuse coloured plants to play off this Viburnums dark green leaves. So even when not in bloom this area of the garden has some pizazz. Depending on where you live this shrub can have bland to amazing red Autumn foliage.

KALMIAS

2007-06-18T18:31:00.001-07:00

Kalmias are in the Ericaceae Family and are related to Rhododendrons. In the trio, traditionally Azaleas bloom first, then Rhodys, followed by the Kalmias. All take similar care, needing moist acidic soil that is full of organic material, moist air, and light fertilization when first showing growth in Spring and immediately after blooming. I have mine located in partial sun, trying to shelter them from the hottest afternoon heat. Giving them good light ensures higher bloom count. One wonderful attribute about Kalmias is that the buds set weeks before they bloom and are very ornamental. Each flower bud looks like a little turban hat. Very Cool! Kalmias come in many colour combinations and newer hybirds are being introduced each year. A head node to P.J., who grows these for the nursery I buy for. Thanks P.J.

CHIVES AT SUNSET

2007-06-17T15:30:00.000-07:00

I've always loved the culinary as well as ornament value of Chives ( Allium schoenoprasum). Often chopped over potatoes, or bundled and placed on top of steaks and roasts, sometimes tying together bunches of asparagus, or even the lovely flowers adorning your favourite salads, chives uses are abundant. Many gardener keep them in tight rows along side other perennial herbs. Others incorporate them in their ornamental plantings adding texture and colour. In either case, they are a wonderful addition to any garden and a delicious accent to many recipes.

PIKE PLACE MARKET

2007-06-17T15:20:00.000-07:00

I took a trip down to Pike Place Market yesterday and captured a few shots of the market. I figured you all would enjoy.

HEUCHERA 'PEACH MELBA'

2007-06-14T18:11:00.000-07:00

Huechera 'Peach Melba' is a delicious combination of watermelon, peach, and apricot tones keeping its foliage through out the year( in my area). It's a wonderful complement to Hostas, Astilbes, Coleus, Ferns and other partial shade plants. Preferring moist well drained soil and light fertilization through out the growing season keeps it looking its best. In early spring I give mine a clean up removing any spent leaves from Winter. This Huechera is grown for its foliage so many gardeners cut off flower stalks as they develop to show case their leaves. I really love this plant as well as all Huecheras and well feature others I have in my garden in the future.

HARDY GERANIUMS

2007-06-13T16:52:00.001-07:00

Here's an unidentified Hardy Geranium I got from a small start given to me by a friend. Obviously I don't recall its name, but as you can see it a real bloomer. Plus as an added bonus the Autumn foliage is spectacular in shades for reds, oranges, and golds.

GOLDEN FULLMOON MAPLE

2007-06-13T16:21:00.000-07:00

Radiant and luminescent are perfect adjectives for this Maple. Its name is Acer shirasawanum 'Aureum' (certainly a mouthful), which is a large shrub/small tree Maple that has beautiful yellow chartreuse foliage, and maintains it vibrancy all summer long. I keep mine in a very large pot on the deck and give it partial shade, along with some protection from strong winds. Other than occasional watering, it really requires little care. One day I'll have to get it into the garden, maybe locating it next to some dark forest green yews and small to intermediate sized conifers. That would be a great combination for contrast in colour and texture.

DELPHINIUMS

2007-06-11T16:31:00.000-07:00

Well, June has arrived and it's the time of the year that the Delphiniums are in full glory. The type that I grow are the 'Pacific Giant' series and stand about five feet. I've had mine only three years and I find that the real trick with them is they need tremendous amounts of organic material in the soil. Plus, they can't dry out in summer! So I have them located with some Longiflorum lilies and other plants that appreciates well drained moist soil. This year, each clump has about 12 to 15 spikes, which gives quite a show. And are in several shades of blue, from pale to cobalt, and parrot to midnight. Definitely a head turner in the garden. I just started from seed some Pacific Giant 'Summer Skies' which is a medium blue hybrid. They only have their first few leaves, but can't wait to see them in bloom ( about 2 years from now). Well as I often say " Sow with patients, reap a full harvest "

PEONIES

2007-06-10T19:16:00.000-07:00

The peonies are in full bloom now and with Junes persistent misty weather the blossoms tend to get weighted down with all the dew. As you can see I'm not always the best when it comes to staking them up. I still have the peony cages folded up in the garage.
Still, lovely to see them in bloom.

SHADES OF BLUE LAVENDER

2007-06-10T10:12:00.000-07:00

Hardy Geraniums and Nepeta blooming in shade of Blue Lavender.

CHAEROPHYLLUM HIRSUTUM 'ROSEUM'

2007-06-09T13:29:00.000-07:00

I first spotted this plant on a tour of Herronswood Nursery several years back. I love the umbel shaped flowers, and the clear rose-pink colour was an attractive choice for one of my mixed borders. So I purchased 2 liners of this perennial and looked forward to getting it into the ground. The staff at Herronswood spoke highly of this plant and I haven't been disappointed. It blooms in Mid-Spring along with the late Euphorbias (of which it's a great complement) and is very low maintenance. Requiring full sun and good drainage are a most and it well produce weeks of colour. The flowers hover above the leaves giving this perennial a lite airy look. And the fern like foliage has an apple fragrance when cut and looks very pleasing even when not in bloom. For the first time mine are ready to divide after 4 years which shows that this plant is easy to keep in its place. Six weeks after it finishes blooming I cut it to the ground and it flushes new growth which looks great to the end of Fall.

DO YAH SEE-DUM

2007-06-08T18:06:00.000-07:00

Sedum spathulifolium 'Cape Blanco' in bloom. One of my favourite sedums.

'MAGIC CARPET' SPIREA

2007-06-06T16:38:00.000-07:00

The Summer blooming Spireas are starting to bloom in the garden and I wanted to feature Spirea japonica 'Magic Carpet'. This plant is a real gem with interest many months of the year. First in late Winter/early Spring it leafs out in golds and red tones (bottom photo). Them the foliage turns to lime green and the new growth turns rose pink (middle photo). Finally it blooms with pink flowers and the foliage turns a chartreuse (top photo). As with most Spireas this hybrid requires full sun and usually is not bothered by any pests. Another quality of this Spirea is its size, generally topping out at about 30 inches and spreading slightly wider. Yearly light pruning keeps in top form. Its a great plant to place in mixed borders or amongst other foundation shrubs to add interest.

HIKING

2007-06-05T18:38:00.000-07:00

To change things up a little and provide some contrast to my blog I'll post occasional shots of some of the hikes I go on. I'll try to incorporate pictures with plant material to keep with the theme of the blog. I hope you all well enjoy.

These shots were taken last Saturday on a hike in Central Washington on the east side of the Cascade Mountains. There were amazing rock formations on the sides of the canyon and lots of wildlife. Unfortunately we got there towards the end of peek wildflower season, but still seeing wild penstemon, geraniums, rice flower, alliums, and many asteraceae family members. Usually I hike in Western Washington which is much greenery, but this was a really nice change. I'll definitely go back, but earlier in Spring, so I can see more wildflowers in their prime.

LUPINES

2007-06-04T17:46:00.001-07:00

The lupines are blooming in the garden now and its always a joy and surprise to see what colours I end up with. Originally I planted blue and pink Lupines about 5 years ago. I let them reseed and pull what volunteers show up in any unwanted areas. Each year, since they cross pollinate the colours seem to change. This years there seem to be many white ones, but in years past I've had yellows, purples, even some corals. The first plants where 'Gallery Mix' Lupines which are shorter (18 to 24 inches) than the Russell Lupines and often bloom the first year. They are not a long lived perennial usually only lasting 2 or 3 years. Keep in full sun with constantly moist well drained soil, and as with many Lupines, watch for aphids and powdery mildew.

DAVID AUSTINS

2007-06-03T19:01:00.001-07:00

Here are some shots of some of my David Austin Roses in bloom. The cabbage rose form I really like and they have the best fragrance.

BUSY BEE

2007-05-31T20:46:00.001-07:00

A busy bee enjoying some Pink Chintz Thyme. It was a cold day when this was taken. On sunnier days I've witnessed up to 10 bees per square foot. Pretty cool!

BERBERIS THUNBERGII 'AUREA'

2007-05-30T16:29:00.000-07:00

This Berberis parents are native to Asia and Japan and has been cultivated because of its yellow-chartreuse coloured foliage. A great plant for full sun I choose to grow mine with some light afternoon shade to keep the foliage from burning. It complements well with its larger leafed neighboring plants of Huecheras, dark green and lime stripped Hostas, black Mondo Grass, pale pink Bergenia, and dwarf hot pink Rhodys. In some parts of the country Barbarries have become invasive but this hybrid doesn't really set any seed and my clump of 3 plants has only reached two feet high and four feet across. Not bad for almost 5 years in the ground. It's a wonderful plant that really requires no special care. Certainly a keeper.

ALLIUM GIGANTEUM 'GLOBEMASTER'

2007-05-29T15:58:00.000-07:00

Of all my Alliums this is the showiest. Allium giganteum 'Globemaster' is a hybrid of giganteum and has all the wonderful attributes of it parents but in a smaller package, only topping out at 30 inches. The parents usually are up to 6 feet and are sometimes difficult combine in the garden. 'Globemaster' easily nestles in amongst other late Spring bloomers. The foliage always looks tired by the time they bloom so place behind shorter perennials and shrubs to cover up. Mine are ready to divide this Fall, so I know I'll make some fellow gardeners really happy. They make a great cut flower and are bee magnets (something we gardeners should be cognoscente about). They are a great combined with Lupins, Peonies, Oriental Poppies, and Bearded Irises which all bloom at the same time.

RHODYS

2007-05-28T20:33:00.001-07:00

Took a stroll after work this afternoon to see what was blooming in the neighborhood. It seemed that all the late season rhodys were putting on a show. Rhodys are very common landscape plants in this area. Some gardeners will not use them because they are too common. I really like them. Always have. I remember when living in Central California having two in my garden and just babying them to get just a few flower clusters on each shrub. Fortunately the Seattle area is ideal for many types. So now I can enjoy them with much less work.

IRIS PALLIDA VARIGATA

2007-05-25T20:04:00.000-07:00

I only have two types of Bearded Irises in the garden right now. My favourite is Iris pallida variegata. The main reason I grow it is for the foliage which creates strong vertical lines in the mixed borders. The flowers are an additional bonus. I grow it with a little afternoon shade so the leaves look fresh through September (if grown with all day full sun the leaves crisp in summer). Its so easy to grow every gardener should make a small spot for them. Months long of a visual pop with very little effort. Differently a keeper.

AKEBIA

2007-05-24T18:05:00.001-07:00

I first planted my Akebias (Akebia quinata) about 4 years ago to cover some unattractive chain link fence in my front garden. Its covered the the 40' fence (just 2 plants) almost completely now and is a wonderful backdrop for some of the mixed borders in front of it. The best attribute about this vine besides its beautiful foliage is its fragrant flowers, which fills the entire front yard for weeks in April and early May. The aroma is that of a cross of vanilla and jasmine but its not over powering. The white flowering hybrid is 'shirobana', the mauve is a unnamed cultivar. Its one of my favourite vines, and even though it can be aggressive its easy to control with occasional pruning. I understand in some areas of the U.S. that its considered to be a weed but in my area it's not.

LAST SATURDAY EVENING

2007-05-21T18:24:00.001-07:00

Here are 2 photos of last Saturday evening. The top picture is of my Coral bark Maple (Acer palmatum 'Sango Kako'). And lower picture is of a rainbow that evening. In lower Issaquah Heights we get a lot of rainbows. The lighting Saturday night was especial great for photography, so I did what I could to capture some good shots.

STACHYURUS

2007-05-20T17:16:00.000-07:00

A Stachyurus in bloom at one of the local botanical gardens. It has amazingly graceful branch structure with strong vertical lines created by this plants spring hanging blossoms. I really love this plant, but unfortunately I don't have any room for it in my garden. Maybe you do in yours :)

PERSPECTIVE

2007-05-19T11:11:00.001-07:00

A unique perspective of Ramapo Rhody's through Magic Carpet Spireas and Rose Glow Barberries.

MELLOW YELLOW

2007-05-18T18:28:00.000-07:00

One of my favourite Spireas in the garden is Spirea thunbergii 'Mellow Yellow'. This photo was taken in mid-march. The flowers are produced along the entire length of the branch and are followed by bright yellow green leaves. I keep them in a location of morning sun and afternoon shade because the foliage can burn in summer. Yearly light pruning after blooming keeps at its best shape.

FORM

2007-05-17T19:20:00.000-07:00

A shot taken about a six weeks ago of the beautiful leafless form of a Laceleaf Maple at Bellevue botanical Garden in their Japanese Garden. Now all the Laceleafs (Acer palmatum 'Dissectum') are leafed out.

FORSYTHIA

2007-04-26T18:23:00.000-07:00

Here's a shot of the Forsythia that bloomed in the yard a little over a month ago. I have it located with drifts of daffodils and P.J.M. Rhody's giving a great mid-march show. Once it finishes blooming it leafs out and blends in to the back of the border letting the late Spring and Summer shrubs and perennials show off.

BERGENIA

2007-04-24T15:45:00.000-07:00

Begenia is wonderful very hardy perennial that I planted in some of my shadier locations in the garden. It has a sculptural quality and contrast nicely with many of the finer textured shrubs that are planted next to it. Spring brings bright pink flowers ( there are also white and rose-red hybrids available) surrounded with large, almost leaf lettuce like, foliage that turns red-burgundy in fall. Occasional dividing is needed in early spring to keep it at its best and you have to have the snail/slug bait handy because they will munch on this plant ( as you can see in the picture).
Native to mountains of China and the Himalayas it is remarkably hardy for such a tropical looking plant. Bergenias are no to picky about soil as long as it drains well and preforms best with a light fertilization twice in spring.