Driest April on record in Portland

 


Sad but true - the previous record was 1956 with only 0.53 inches of rain recorded for the month of April. I'm not sure what the final tally was for this month but it did not surpass that amount. In fact, it wasn't even close. I find it discouraging and scary but typical for my luck. I move to a region to enjoy a cooler and wetter climate and it starts to change. I know it is all beyond my control so I see no reason to fret over it.

The garden actually looks great but of course we water religiously. I try not to think about what this year's water bills will like or the danger of wildfires. For now, I can only enjoy the moment.

Some highlights from the garden right now -

Peony 'Shima Nishiki'


 

Pinus contorta 'Spaan's Dwarf'

 

Norway Spruce (Picea abies 'Pusch'

 

Lithodora

 

Veronica 'Georgia Blue'

 

Bleeding Heart 'Gold Heart' (Dicentra)

 

Cape Lily (Schizostylis)

Podophyllum 'Spotty Dotty'


Weeping Redbud 'Ruby Falls'


Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

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Comments

Karin / Southern Meadows said…
April was particularly dry in Georgia as well. Most of the plants are doing well in the garden but we have had to supplement water the orchard (very thankful for our newly drilled well). We also had a late frost, after our typical April 15th last frost date so it has done a number on some of the plants. We just roll with it. Your garden is looking really lovely!
May 2, 2021 at 5:45 AM
Lisa at Greenbow said…
I understand your concern about the dry weather. It is scary. Your watering regime looks to be taking care of every plant.
May 2, 2021 at 8:04 AM
Kris Peterson said…
Your garden is magnificent, Phillip. I share your concern with the dry conditions. It's even worse here but that's cold comfort I know.
May 2, 2021 at 4:16 PM
chavliness said…
What happened to "April showers bring May flowers"... It was a rather dry in Seattle the better part of April, although it rained toward the end of the month. The potted plants got help from the hose, but not much else. I love the new growth and cones on the Norway Spruce!
May 3, 2021 at 6:46 AM
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