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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

April Beauties

Azalea "Coral Bells"

A florist azalea that I received when my father died 14 years ago.

Unknown azalea

Chinese Snowball (Viburnum macrocephalum)

Deutzia gracilis

Epimedium rubrum

Solomon's Seal, Jacob's Ladder, Epimedium

Leatherleaf Viburnum
(Viburnum rhytidophyllum)

Persicaria microcephala Red Dragon

Spanish Bluebells (Hyacinthoides)

Bridal Wreath Spiraea (Spiraea prunifolia)


White Chinese Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis 'Alba')

White Chinese Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis 'Alba')



Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Comments

  1. When Azaleas and the flowers that accompany bloom, the most humble abode becomes fairyland and well-tended gardens like your own are at their most spectacular. White Wisteria on a rustic arbor is a crowning touch.

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  2. Beautiful views of my favorite season! After touring your garden, I obtained my own bit of Persicaria 'Purple Dragon.' It is growing well, and I love it! Epimedium took a while to get established, but now it is spreading well in the woodland garden and has become a favorite.

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    Replies
    1. Epimedium does take time to get established but when it does, it is lovely. One of the best ground covers for dry shade too.

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  3. It is so exciting to see your garden abloom. I know in a couple of weeks we too will have some of the same blooms. Love your azaleas. I haven't had luck with them in my garden. I planted what is supposed to be a native last year. It might have made it through the winter. It is barely showing a bit of life on the tips. Here is hope...

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    1. I don't have too many azaleas. I now have 2 natives, was just given one by a friend. They do really well for us, I don't know why I have not planted more.

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  4. It is beautiful Phillip! Love spring.

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  5. What an enchanted garden...

    It may be a little subtle, but I think the Epimediums are my favorites of this batch of photos...

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  6. Hello, beautiful photos and wonderful plants :) Regards Monika

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  7. Spring, you are such a beauty. No wonder we all love you so!

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  8. A collection of lovely plants ! Spring has definitely sprung! Your garden looks fantastic! can't believe your Wisteria is out already, wish mine would get a move on!

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  9. Lovely Phillip. Just lovely. Happy Spring.~~Dee

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