Growing New Zealand Hibiscus
When I see the word hibiscus I think of big, beautiful blooms. When I hear the words New Zealand I remember scenic flax covered coasts. But when I think of New Zealand hibiscus I feel troubled. I should have known when this hibiscus germinated so readily and grew so easily that there would be trouble. Trouble when it grew so fast and sparsely and discouraging … Continue reading Growing New Zealand Hibiscus
Poppy Love
I was thrilled when on the lovely day of May 3rd the first bud of my Himalayan Blue Poppy began to open. I purchased two plants last year at the Rhododendron Species Garden in Federal Way, hoping against hope that I could grow them in my yard. I knew that Meconopsis could be a difficult plant to grow and without a lot of options … Continue reading Poppy Love
Doves and Discs
Some plants need the slant of the morning sun to be appreciated, others possess an intoxicating fragrance. The Dove Tree, or Davidia involucrata, is at its best when the wind rushes through the leaves, lifting the white bracts so they twist and turn and dance. They flutter. It’s like watching music. The rhythm sweeps through the branches, breathing life and creating patterns. It seems … Continue reading Doves and Discs
Mount Fuji Flowering Cherry–A Tree for the Moment
The double pure white blossoms of the Mount Fuji flowering cherry opened last month and I knew that was my favorite tree. It called to me on my walks and I kept getting drawn to it. My dog tried to get me over where the grass smelled like several shades of pee, but I couldn’t take my eyes off of this tree. Petals so white, … Continue reading Mount Fuji Flowering Cherry–A Tree for the Moment
2016 Northwest Flower and Garden Show
Entering the show there is excitement in the air. Air which is filled with light and fragrance and color. Soft colors, bright colors, spring colors and joyful colors. Leaving a cool and windy Seattle and walking into the show is like suddenly being in the southern hemisphere where seasons are turned around and it’s spring or summer. And then walking onto the main floor there … Continue reading 2016 Northwest Flower and Garden Show
Rainyleaf 