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Hidcote - pt. 1

I'm just now getting around to organizing the photos from my trip to England back in May. As I've said a million times, this was the trip of a lifetime, and I had an incredible time. This was a 3-week trip organized by the HPSO (Hardy Plant Society of Oregon) during which we visited 35 different locations. Most all of these were gardens but there were also a few castles and villages thrown in, as well as the icing on the trip - the Chelsea Flower Show. This tour focused on the southeast region of England, notably the Cotswolds and Cornwall. I've watched so many programs and read so many books about England and the gardens there that I was afraid it would tarnish the image I had built up in my head. I'm pleased to say that it not disappoint. The trek from London to Bath by train was not the best first impression. However, as we gained distance from the city, the rolling green countryside gave me glimpses of things to come. After arriving in Bath and finding my hotel, I m...
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Pruning the St. John's Wort


The St. John's Wort (Hypericum 'Pumpkin') was one of my favorite shrubs last summer, a real stunner in early July. I'm hoping for a repeat this year and pruned it a few days ago. I had planned to take it back about halfway but after watching some videos, I found that most people cut it completely back to the ground. Which is what I did.

Before -


 

 And after -

Another good reason for pruning it is to be able to see Rhododendron 'PJM'. It looks puny here but since this was taken, the blooms have opened more and it is looking better. Maybe it felt crowded.

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

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Comments

  1. chavlinessMarch 29, 2021 at 7:48 AM

    You are a brave soul. A second "after" photo in early July is a must.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Kris PetersonMarch 29, 2021 at 2:22 PM

    Wow. St John's Wort never grew like that in my garden. I hope you get another fabulous summer display.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Lisa at GreenbowMarch 30, 2021 at 2:22 AM

    Gosh I wonder if my St John's Wort will get this big?? I doubt it but glad to know you can cut it down if need be.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Hoover BooApril 1, 2021 at 8:50 AM

    It's a beauty. Great it can take a total refresh. Yes, a July photo will be a must.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Dorothy BordersApril 3, 2021 at 9:43 AM

    That St. John's wort was a beauty in bloom. I've tried growing it before but never that successfully. Obviously, it is happy in your garden.

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  6. Karin / Southern MeadowsApril 7, 2021 at 5:05 PM

    I have never prunned my St. John's wort. Maybe I need to try it on one of mine and see how it performs. Mine SJW have gotten rust in the past and then they slowly decline.

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