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
This has been a perfect spring for hydrangeas. Yours look beautiful. That blue just shines in the shade. I can't wait to see how long the blooms last too. I hope Mother Nature cooperates and doesn't send a drought.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful! Mine have been nice this year too. Very dry srping, but as long as I keep my hydrangea watered, it looks awesome' LOTS of flowers, more than ever before :)
ReplyDeleteNot only are your hydrangeas beautiful, so is your garden. Love the dry stream bed.
ReplyDeleteI don't often visit here and, by chance, I think the first time I came across your blog, you were talking about hydrangeas.
ReplyDeleteI'm not a hydrangea fan but these look lovely. Shows how important context is.
Lucy
Everyone this year has been exclaiming how great the hydrangeas are which makes me wish I had added more sooner to the garden. I've been afraid of deer and rabbits in the best hydrangea areas. Your garden and the hydrangeas look great!
ReplyDeleteGood morning, Phillip. Your hydrangeas look lovely in the woodland setting. Those huge white blooms really make a statement.
ReplyDeleteMarnie
They are indeed very beautiful this year!
ReplyDeleteJust exquisite! The combinations of the hydrangeas with the garden ornaments couldn't be better!
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