The Garden Awakens
Anise 'Woodland Red' ( Illicium floridanum ) A few weeks ago, I thought spring would never arrive, but now the change is astonishing. The nights are still cold (40s and sometimes even 30s) so planting tender annuals and vegetables is unwise although I have already succumbed, but covering and uncovering things gets old quickly. Someone made a wise comment last week and I must agree with them - "Don't plant anything tender until after May 1". Several plants are blooming like never before. One is the Anise shrub (above and below). I don't know if the recent tree pruning, which is allowing more sun into the woodland path, is affecting it or perhaps it is just age, but I've never seen so many blooms. Michael refers to this as "the stinky fish shrub" and I have to admit to smell of the flowers is quite unpleasant. It is so beautiful that I can overlook that. The old pink dogwood tree, which was already here, shades our woodland path and it too is prett
Somehow I missed this, I know how I haven't been able to read the paper the last several days. He had a spectacular garden, and you're right it's hard to grow them that large here. I tried bring some of the larger varieties back from Auburn with me on my trips home. I think 2 are still living at the old house. I hope his garden is handed down to a garden lover. Too many beautiful gardens are turned into yards. Mary
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear about your friend Phillip. He obviously has a green thumb. What a sight his garden must be during the blooming season.
ReplyDeleteThis is spectacular and I always feel bad when I hear about the end of a marvelous gardening career. Also, it was nice to see photos of your garden on the Fine Gardening site... Larry
ReplyDeleteMary, I do hope that someone can take care of the garden. It would be terrible if it went to ruin.
ReplyDeleteThanks Lisa and Larry!
How sad he is gone, but it is rather inspiring that he started plants from small cuttings when he was older. Shows such a great attitude.
ReplyDeleteJan
Always Growing
Too bad he is gone. I'm really sorry to hear that Phillip. The garden is really lovely and fully bloomed!
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear of Mr. Perry's passing. He led our Master Gardener group through his beautiful garden several years ago, and it was such a treat learning from such a fascinating man. I will pass on this news to our group, as many will remember him.
ReplyDeleteThats a beautiful place with so many azaleas. Sorry to hear of the loss of this fine gardener.
ReplyDeleteLovely photo and lovely tribute.
ReplyDeleteHe sounds really inspiring. I do hope the garden continues - it's gorgeous.
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