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
That's an ingenious solution and well worth it to help that beautiful shrub shine. Deutzia is another plant I love but it's so far outside my zone it's not something I'd even try to grow.
ReplyDeleteThanks Kris!
DeleteYou are absolutely right ! This is one gorgeous plant albeit tree ? .. I would have thought the same things as you did .. in the family of deutzia so why not a small shrub? However what a beauty to "out grow" your expectations ! Great ideas for staking too.
ReplyDeleteThat first photo is a stunner Phillip.
Thanks!
DeleteYou remember correctly - the one at Joy Creek was MASSIVE! And, as I recall, also had to be supported. I believe they had it growing over an arch, entering the Terrace Garden. I'm sorry I missed your open garden. I bet anyone who didn't didn't miss the Deutzia much. You have so many other wonderful plants to admire!
ReplyDeleteThanks Anna - I could not remember exactly where it was or what it was growing on.
DeleteI understand this shrub can be pruned hard every year. Do you prune it?
ReplyDeleteYes but not hard. I plan to do so after bloom for sure. I have it in a limited space spot anyway so it will need it.
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