A Closer Look at Winter Damage
But first, take a look at this gorgeous rainbow that we had on Friday! The five-day stretch of warm temperatures last week really jump-started the garden. Now that plants are putting out new growth, it is easier to see what kind of damage the winter left. Back in mid-January, we experienced five straight days of below-freezing temperatures. This caused much damage in Portland and areas where frigid winds were a factor. Here, we were fortunate to not get the wind and the cold temperatures were dampened by a blanket of snow. That said, it was a tough time for the garden and there are noticeable casualties but no outright deaths that I have seen. The bottlebrush ( Callistemon 'Woodlander's Red') did not like the cold at all. It was planted six years ago, in the north-facing garden no less, and I've not experienced die-back on it until now. A local expert said to cut it all the way back so that is what I did. If it doesn't make it, I won't be too distraught. It is
How lovely, Philip ... an enchanting entry ... and how lucky you are to be working outside. Today was a tease here ~ 58. We haven't seen 'balmy' weather like this since autumn ...
ReplyDeleteWasn't that arbor once covered with roses? Are you going to plant a new climbing rose, clematis or honey-sockle 'Serotina' it drenches the evenings in the gardens with a wonderfull perfume. Good job so far! Over here in Denmark it is really getting winter and I would freeze my butt of outside.
ReplyDeletePhillip, The after looks fabulous...My Mr I says the same kinds of things when I want to improve the garden's bones. gail
ReplyDeleteWhat a difference a little paint and a lot of sweat equity make! Looks great. I'll be curious to see the new fence if you get it. There is something to be said for not having to paint.
ReplyDeleteDoesn't it feel good to get a project accomplished that actually shows off your efforts. The arbor looks great now.
ReplyDeleteWe put some of that plastic fencing in last year. It is easy to work with and looks so neat and tidy all the time.
Isn't it amazing how a little paint can make something look almost new again!
ReplyDeletelove it!
ReplyDeletecameron
I often like the patina of old, weathered things in the garden. But then again there's a lot to be said for a new, spiffy coat of paint. It looks as good as new!
ReplyDeleteNice paint job! After maintaining a white picket fence at our last house, I'm now more into easy care natural cedar. Lazy, I know.
ReplyDeleteLooks really nice, Phillip. The gate adds a lot to the front entrance. I'm a huge fan of gates and traditional fencing in gardens.
ReplyDeleteMarnie
Nice job! The arbor looks wonderful re-painted. I like the lights too.
ReplyDeleteHi Phillip, your gate looks fabulous. Well done. Our neighbors have that vinyl coated fence and it is quite nice. It shows dirt and would need to be scrubbed on occasion. They have not done that and it is no longer white but green with algae? It might depend on how many feet are needed, they have five lots and are elderly. It still looks nice though.
ReplyDeleteFrances
Looks awesome, Phillip! It looks new! Great job!
ReplyDeleteThat's a nice difference! I suspect I'm going to have to stain my deck again, as soon as the snow is gone (let's call it May!!)
ReplyDeleteWOW! What a big job--but totally worth it!
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