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Stepping Into May

Rhododendron 'Klondyke' and Geranium maculatum May is already here and the garden suddenly explodes with growth. We spent the weekend watering (already?) because there hasn't been significant rainfall in a while. We don't have a sprinkler system so it is all manpower, dragging hoses and sprinklers. It takes two days - one for the back and one for the front - to water everything. It is possible to get it all in one day if we start really early. The rhododendrons are beginning now - 'Mandarin Lights' 'Jean Marie De Montague' 'Percy Wiseman' - beautiful but suffers from lacebug. I'm considering replacing it or maybe I will try and treat it. A favorite right now is the Chilean Potato Vine ( Solanum crispum 'Glasnevin'). This plant is hardier than you might imagine. Some sources list it as a "9", others an "8".  It is going on its third year in our garden, having been moved once. It is sheltered somewhat by a fence but ...
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Star Magnolia



It is a sunny but cold and windy day. I just stepped outside to take a photo of the Star Magnolia (Magnolia stellata), one of my favorite ornamental trees. It is in full bloom right now but that probably will not be the case after this weekend when temperatures are predicted to plunge into the low 20s. The tree will then look like it is covered with wet tissue paper.

It is difficult to get a full shot of this tree. There are power lines and neighbor's houses in the background and the absence of leaves make photography difficult. It is beautiful to look at in person but photos usually disappoint. 

I would like to grow this tree in a sheltered location, such as a courtyard or next to a south-facing wall or patio. Keep location in mind if you plan to plant a Star Magnolia.

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy
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  1. LarryFebruary 27, 2013 at 3:40 PM

    Wow Philip... I wasn't prepared to think magnolias would be in bloom already... even in the south! i've been poring over a list of magnolias for the past couple days... I've got it pared down to thirteen would you believe?! This is tough... wishing I had more space. Maybe it's time to remove more trees to make space for improved varieties... a hard decision. Larry

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  2. outlawgardenerFebruary 27, 2013 at 6:01 PM

    Star Magnolias are gorgeous in bud and stunning in flower. The rest of the year... Beautiful picture Phillip!

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  3. GailFebruary 27, 2013 at 7:41 PM

    Phillip, I love this shot, you've captured the beauty of Star Magnolia!
    Mine will like wise be wiped out, too. Such is the fate of this too early bloomer! gail

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  4. Lisa at GreenbowFebruary 27, 2013 at 7:54 PM

    This is a great shot. You are lucky to have any blooms at this time. You can savor them. I noticed that your garden got a nod in Pam's book. Great!

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  5. HolleyGardenMarch 1, 2013 at 6:55 AM

    Pretty! And I bet it smells wonderful, too! I don't usually see this type of magnolia here - its petals look quite delicate.

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  6. gardenenvyMarch 3, 2013 at 9:30 PM

    Gorgeous bloom and photo! Jeannine

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