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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

Rainy Sunday


A second rainy Sunday in a row but I am not complaining. 64 degrees was the high today. I moved here for this kind of weather. 

I don't necessary enjoy working in a wet garden though and did not get much accomplished today. I planted some things yesterday afternoon after work and forgot to get some autumn crocus in the ground. So I planted those between taking photos.

The autumn crocus that was already here are blooming. I am not sure exactly what they are - colchicum maybe?



I added some of these -



Taking a look around the wet garden -

I am getting ready to work on the center steps between the terraces. Those are the reason for the random stones. The railroad-tie steps are too steep so I am going to add some pavers and hope that will work.


Around front between the front borders. The grass, which has been unwatered, is just now returning to green. There are many bare spots. I plan to redo this pathway next year. 

I've never really been a big fan of hibiscus but this 'Midnight Marvel' is growing on me. In Alabama, they were always eat up with holes from insects feasting on them. So far, that hasn't been a problem here. 

Rose 'Golden Celebration'


Persicaria 'Blackfield'

Callicarpa 'Profusion' (Beautyberry)

Begonia grandis 'Heron's Pirouette'
Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Comments

  1. The pink crocus has popped out in my garden too, but now that you mentioned it, there is no sign of crocus sativa yet; I harvest the saffron if I get to it before the rain destroy the blooms. Hibiscus 'Midnight Marvel' is very nice! I love that amazing dark foliage.

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    Replies
    1. I may try to harvest the saffron. That sounds like fun!

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  2. I hear ya about the hibiscus being eaten alive. Mine looks shredded. Maybe the bugs don't recognize the dark leaves?? My crazy fall crocus don't bloom. The green comes up during the spring but not a bloom the past few years. Maybe I need to move them. I miss them. Your garden looks so lush. I hope the stones help with the steps.

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  3. Oh, my, amazing how much you have done. It is beautiful!

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