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
Wow! Great photos making memories to keep, it may never snow like that for the next ten years! I like how the snow piled up on top of things especially on the tree in pix #4 leaving the bottom side clean and bare and the furry burr-y cloak on the statue.
ReplyDeleteTen years? Nope, every couple of years.
DeletePoor little Van!! Hope it warms up quickly!!!
ReplyDeleteHe's back! :)
DeleteI don't know how close to your house you have your hummingbird feeder hung, but if there's an electrical outlet near by, I've heard that if you wrap the feeder in LED Christmas lights that might supply enough heat to keep the syrup from freezing. Or a lot of people just bring it in at night and put it out again in the morning.
ReplyDeleteThat is a good idea and worth trying.. Our feeders are just out on the patio. I am going to start bringing them in for now.
ReplyDeleteYour garden looks pretty with a heavy dusting of snow. Van is a lucky bird having his own chef. :)
ReplyDeleteHoly Moly! Snow brightens up the whole outdoors--nice in grey (almost) winter. That last photo of the statue wearing a snow turban is a fun one.
ReplyDeleteNice pics, Phillip!
ReplyDeleteI particularly the last one with the statue wearing its stone 'hat' :)
Glad you are enjoying the transformation wrought by the snow.
ReplyDeleteOnly cold here. News reports said UNA cheerleaders stuck on icy interstate on way to Kansas City. Hoping we avoid the icy mix this go-round. You guys stay safe!
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