April update

A few dozen Tete-a-tete daffodils remain in bloom. These were autumn planted after construction of the sunroom was completed, probably in December, which accounts for flowering that is weeks late. I’m happy to have planted hellebores, daffodils, snowdrops, winter aconites (Eranthis), and spring starflowers (Ipheion) immediately rather than waiting another year. Certainly, taking time to evaluate the newly cleared space makes the most sense. But, I must plunge ahead. Usually, this works for the best.

With perennials beginning their spring growth, I’m satisfied that the renovated area of garden will fill in sufficiently. Of course, I’m sure there will be additions.

By some minor miracle, there is only one minor conflict between bulbs and perennials planted weeks apart. One hosta must be moved further from a transplanted rohdea, with a closeby clump of snowdrops just right. Every flower through the winter months is appreciated, and particularly ones viewed every day from indoors. There are days when it’s a bit chilly to enjoy wandering about outdoors.

Some Ostrich ferns have been edited, with more to come.

Today, as the bulbs and hellebores fade, transplanted hostas, ferns, and perennials are leaping into growth. Soon, several Japanese maples will fill this space, a notable improvement over the chaotic mishmash it replaced.

While Japanese maples are not recognized for their flowers, several are quite ornamental. The fernleaf maple is a favorite for its flowers and autumn foliage color.
Seriyu Japanese maple

While the daffodils are clearly seen from the sunroom, regular strolls through the garden are necessary to witness the many delights that are revealed each spring day. There are flowers, more each day, but emerging leaves often catch my eye. Chirping birds and buzzing bees add to my delight.

The redbuds are in varying states of bud and bloom. Several that are more shaded will flower a week later
The native dogwoods are on their typical schedule to reach peak bloom the second week of April. This will be several days later in this cold natured garden than ones just up the hill.
White flowers of the serviceberry (Amelanchier) are filling the view from the sunroom occupied by ‘Merrill’ magnolia until a few days ago.
The emerging leaf of one of the Oakleaf hydrangeas. Ones in more shade have barely broken bud.
Flowers of ‘Jane’ magnolia suffered minor freeze damage, but many buds did not open until milder weather returned.

2 Comments Add yours

  1. M. Wilson says:

    i learned at a Master Gardener symposium that if you look at the flower of a redbud, it looks like a hummingbird! Now that’s all I see. I think it’s an added bonus to a pretty tree.

    1. Dave says:

      I hadn’t heard that, but I see it. The flowers are exceptional, but with the varied foliage colors, I can’t wait to see them in leaf.

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