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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

Wolf Eyes Japanese Dogwood


Cornus kousa "Wolf Eyes" is a dramatic small tree that really lights up dark areas of the garden. This is one of my favorite plants and I know that is one that I will miss the most when we leave this garden. It is about 10 years old (I'm guessing) and is a slow grower. It is about 8 feet tall and about 6 feet wide. It does sulk in dry weather and appreciates a good deep watering during the dry spells. I've never been overly fond of where I placed it but couldn't find a better spot when I purchased it. Of course my motto is "Buy now, find a spot for it later." It seems to be quite happy where it is though.



Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Comments

  1. One of my favorite trees and your is the best I've seen! It lights up your garden. I hope to move mine to my new garden this winter. Mine is about 7 years old--fingers crosses. Maybe you could pack yours up too and take it with you? Cuttings at least? It's probably easier just to buy a new one. I

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  2. I have 2. One is getting a little more sun than it likes and it really got bit last summer. I have another one called First Lady that just shines in the garden, a green/yellow leave.

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  3. What a beautiful tree. Don't think I've ever seen one.

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  4. What a handsome tree. I have always wanted a wolf.

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  5. Hi Phillip, Sure wish I had room for one ... I've loved them from afar. Yours looks so perfect where you have it and it just lights up the spot. Beautiful.

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  6. Its beautiful Phillip! Since I have actually seen this tree in your garden makes it even more beautiful. Also like the firecracker vine..such bright colors.

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  7. I just posted a link to this page on my Facebook page, "Serenity in the Garden blog" https://www.facebook.com/serenityinthegarden

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