Garden Friday

 

 

 

Happy Garden Friday!

It's been  a gorgeous week here in the Piedmont,

although we are creeping closer to summertime weather patterns.

 

 

 The front porch bed is about to explode with 

Black-Eyed Susans!

They surround the bird bath and we look forward

to all the color in the space.

This will be one of the perennials that gets divided

after blooming is complete.

There are plenty of spots on the property 

that could use this cheery pop of vibrance.

 

 

The salvia are happier than I've seen them in a long time.

This brilliant blue butterfly magnet has been blooming for months

and shows no signs of slowing down.

The plants I use in all of my flower beds not only attract pollinators,

but are drought tolerant once established as well.

 

blue salvia

 

It was so thrilling to see the Shasta daisies come to life.

I don't remember this plant being as prolific

as it has been so far this spring.

These make great cutting flowers for the house.

 

 

The white yarrow is another perennial that is doing better in its second year.

There are constantly bees covering the petals,

and I know the butterflies also find it enticing.

 

white yarrow

 

 

The butterfly bed is filling out with things that are coming back,

as well as with a few seeds that were sown directly.

I'm thinking if I find myself a good plant sale somewhere,

I might need to bring a few home to fill in the bare spots.

After all, if we don't cover Mother Nature,

she will find a way to do it for us,

and that means W-E-E-D-S.

 

The dwarf Joe Pye Weed is growing each week,

despite our lack of rain.

Some of these plants are absolutely amazing

in how much neglect they can take.

Once this starts blooming, the butterflies will be all over it.

 

The lavender is getting ready to bloom,

and with that comes the lovely fragrance like nothing else.

I've taken to rubbing it on my mattress when I change my sheets

to create the sweetest of dreams.

A friend had given me some spider wort,

which I tucked in under a grouping of trees.

(Click on picture to increase the size.)

This is one of those plants that keeps making new starts,

so you will always have some to share.

(The flags help Big K know that these are not weeds when he is mowing!)

 

The apple tree is once again putting out fruit,

although we don't partake of it.

It is left for the birds, deer, rabbits and squirrels to enjoy.

I'm considering using it for homemade apple cider vinegar,

should we get enough fruit.

 

Can I just tell you how much I love this Dutch clover?

It is the best ground cover.

It's easy to grow, low maintenance, and the pollinators love it.

So do the rabbits and chooks,

so it's a win-win-win!

Here's an article extolling the benefits of using it in your lawn,

(or in place of your lawn, should you be so moved.)

 I find these sweet little saplings all over the property.

They offer hope for the future,

and it is so delightful to watch them mature.

I hope your weekend is filled with wonder

and an appreciation for all that you have in your life.