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Ten July Favorites

Chaste Tree ( Vitex ) One of the highlights of the year is when the Chaste Tree blooms. It pains me that I don't know the name of it, but I suspect it is 'Shoal Creek' . I failed to record it, and I also do not remember where it came from. We sell a newer variety at Yard N' Garden called 'Flip Side ', which has stunning leaves of olive-green with a purple reverse.  A friend has the pale pink variety, but I don't think it is as pretty as the blue-colored flowers. This little tree is constantly covered with bees.  Catalpa bignoinoides   'Aurea' A large limb died over the winter, leaving a gaping hole. However, it is looking better after Michael raised some of the remaining limbs. It has bloomed profusely this year. Like the vitex, our best view of it is from the windows, where you get an elevated view. Heliopsis helianthoides 'Fire Twister' This perennial is doing much better after I moved it to a better location. I saw it last week in an ope...
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Signs of Life


The garden seems to be coming alive again after a cold winter. The daffodils have been spectacular and the hellebores are looking great as well. I began growing hellebores a few years ago - very late in the game. I think the expense of them was probably what kept me from buying them in the past. They are really wonderful plants and so welcome this time of year. There is a good article in the latest Alabama Gardener by Troy Marden, who gardens in Tennessee, on varieties that do well for him. I have made a note of those!


Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy
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  1. LesMarch 13, 2014 at 4:20 PM

    My hellebores are late this year, but just this week they decided that it was time to finally show their faces.

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  2. Lisa at GreenbowMarch 13, 2014 at 4:55 PM

    Your garden is so far ahead of here this year. I have my first crocus up today. It looks stunted. I am thrilled to see it anyway. My hellebores might bloom in the next couple of days if it stays warm. I am hopeful.

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  3. Lisa at GreenbowMarch 13, 2014 at 4:57 PM

    P.S. Take some of those nodding heads indoors and float them in a bowl of water. A nice way to enjoy the blooms up close and personal. :)

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  4. _emily_roseMarch 14, 2014 at 5:36 AM

    My mom started growing hellebores about 20 years ago, and they have been divided and shared with so many people. Mine are descendents of hers. This is the first winter I ever remember trimming back last years growth, and they are blooming their little hearts out right now!

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  5. Edith KentMarch 14, 2014 at 8:44 AM

    Beautiful photos. I have solid white and the pink like yours. Guess they have cross pollinated. ..This year I have a variegated one. So easy to grow and make tons of seedlings. Mine are a month later blooming too.

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  6. EveMarch 15, 2014 at 4:36 AM

    Ah! Love these! Let's hope when spring comes it is long lived and perfect in every way!

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  7. debsgardenMarch 15, 2014 at 8:19 PM

    I love hellebores! Mine have cross-pollinated to produce an amazing variety. I love to examine individual blooms. They each have their own characteristics.

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  8. SwimrayMarch 21, 2014 at 5:23 PM

    I am not a big fan of hellebores, but at this time of year, (and with the help of your photos) that may be changing in the future.
    Ray

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