FLOWERS, FLOWERS, FLOWERS!

As the weather warms, the flowers are really beginning to bloom!    Perennials are growing each day--you can almost see them grow!  The TALL BEARDED IRIS, LUPINE, ORIENTAL POPPIES, COLUMBINE, some herbaceous PEONIES, and DUTCH IRIS are all in bloom right now--I've almost got all the beds cleaned up from the early spring blooms; the hyacinths, tulips and daffodils, and the leaves from all the alliums in the yard.  I transplanted my last (I hope) couple of additions or changes.  I try not to plant any later than June 15 (except gladiola corms) so each plant  has a strong root system before the hot summer days.  I also look for plants that are long-lived, reliable, and look their best with minimal care.  As you plan your beds, don't be afraid to experiment.  If it doesn't work, you can move plants around; the plant may love a different place in your yard and thrive, where it wasn't before.   This process will make you a better gardener. Walk through your garden often to observe your plants and look for potential problems.  See if the soil is dry, look under leaves and on stem tips for pests.  Stake or ring plants early; it's difficult to do this when the plants are too big. 

These shots were taken yesterday in the yard.  The iris will be in full bloom in a couple of days, with about 3/4 of them out right now.  The poppies are just starting, as well the lupine, and a couple of the herbaceous peonies as well as the columbine, allium, and the Dutch iris.  This is definitely one of my favorite seasons! Happy Gardening!