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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

Some rhododendrons

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The Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm also had a nice little garden tucked off to one side. There were some beautiful rhododendrons. Just spectacular!

 rhododendron2 Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

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Comments

  1. Stunning! I guess they don't need to be tucked under the trees like they do at LaRue's!

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  2. Oh my, these are just glorious. I just love rhodies. Unfortunately I have never been able to grow them. I can't figure out why. When I drive through town this time of year I see them blooming their heads off here and there. These photos make me want to try again.

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  3. Hi Phillip, these rhododendron are spectacular, indeed! I just love them!
    Your post reminds me of our visit at Stourhead an amazing garden in England, where I saw the most mature and stunning rhododendrons in my life. I am sure you would have enjoyed a visit there as well.
    Anyhow, back to the rhodies in the nursery. How could you restrain yourself from buying them all?
    Warm regards,
    Christina

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  4. Yowza! Those rhododendrons are incredible! Now you need some at your new place, am I right?

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