Predictably, the flowering stalk of the tall Pineapple lily (Eucomis pallidiflora ssp. pole-evansii) is now lying prostrate (below) as it nears its peak bloom. The soil in the area is not overly damp and it is in direct sun for several hours, but I suspect that both soil moisture and limited exposure contribute to the…

Too many times, I’ve cursed as massive storms split as they travel over the Appalachian Mountains. Heavy rains pass just to the north and south of the garden, occasionally with a teasing drop or two falling to add to the frustration. Be patient, I mutter between foul grumbles. Surely, the next storm will come our…

Two Bottlebrush buckeyes (Aesculus parviflora, below) in a damp area of the lower rear garden flower a week later than an older and larger buckeye that I presume to be equally shaded in the side garden. Both areas nestle against the forest, and even as more evening sunlight enters the side garden since the tall…

With flowers of Joe Pye Weeds (Eutrochium spp., below) showing color just before fully opening, I watch neighboring blooms to monitor who goes where. While the majority of bees are attracted to the wide spreading clump of Blunt Mountain mint (Pycnanthemum muticum, below), a number also dine on nearby Vitex and Clethra. Butterflies, mostly swallowtails,…