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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
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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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