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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

Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden (Portland, Oregon)










































Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Comments

  1. Azaleas do make spectacles of themselves in early spring. That first photo is a painting waiting to happen. A beautiful place.

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  2. Gosh, why haven't I ever been there?

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  3. Gorgeous doesn't begin to describe! Portland has some marvelous gardens. Its gentle damp climate is perfect for rhododendrons. Though I have been to Portland several times, I have not seen this particular garden. Definitely will put it on my list!

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  4. Stunning! I hope you continue to fall in love with the pacific northwest as the wonders of the year unfold!

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  5. Absolutely gorgeous, Phillip! Thank you so much for sharing.

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  6. Looks lovely - such intense colors!

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  7. Those photos were practically making me drool! That first one especially, is a knockout!

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  8. You should offer/sell theses photos to the garden as post cards. Nice work!

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