Dirt Therapy | Pacific Northwest Gardening, Garden Tours & Travel

Late Summer Pots

2026-08-27T19:18:06.475-07:00

By this time in the season, containers become a burden, and I regret having so many. Actually I cut back a little this year and don't have as many as last year, but it is a nuisance to have to water every day.

I'm not that good at combining plants in containers, so I normally use only one plant in a pot. Boring I know, but I drive myself nuts when I try to do combinations.

Of course, I bring home more plants and the only place to put them is in a pot. I stumbled across this red cuphea a few weeks ago. It is named 'Cubano Cristo'.

This year, I've really noticed how great begonias are for continuous color -

This begonia was purchased as a last-minute attempt for some extra color for our open garden back in May. Yellow is usually not my first choice, but Michael liked it. It has been a blooming machine all summer.

Another one that has had stellar performance is 'Waterfall ' Encanto White Blush'.

A favorite is 'Canary Wings'. This one overwintered.

I've used the 'Dragonwing' Begonia on the front stoop for years now and it has become a tradition. This year's plant has not been as robust as previous tenants.

We probably have more fuchsias in pots than any other plant. I have been moving many of them to the ground and I've stopped trying to overwinter in the garage. I find that newer ones take off faster and bloom faster. The exception is finding one you really love and not being able to find it the following year...

Fortunately, 'Dollar Princess' is very easy to find. It is one of the best (I think).

'Dancing Flame' appears more pink than orange (if that was the intent), but love it for the wealth of blooms.

'Royal Mosaic' wins the award for largest bloom. It is about the size of a golf ball! This was an impulse buy at Fred Meyer.

My friend Linda has shared many great fuchsias with me over the years. Both Michael and I are crazy about this one - 'Snow Fairy'. An expert on fuchsias was here a few days ago, and he told me this one is hardy. I will be searching for a place to plant it this fall.

Another winner from Linda is 'DebRon's Mangolita'. It is right up there with 'Dancing Flame' for profuse blooming.

Plectranthus 'Guacamole' is a favorite that I've replaced year after year. Last year, the nursery didn't get it. Fortunately, a friend had one and gave us a cutting. We brought it inside for the winter and treated it as a houseplant. It lives!

Another favorite that we've learned will overwinter inside is Dorotheanthus 'Mezoo Trailing Red' (Red Apple). The tiny blooms are just beginning, but it is the foliage that is a stand-out.

Another plant I adore and buy every year is Oxalis. I like 'Plum Crazy' but can't always find it. I believe this one is 'Molten Lava'.

Another houseplant that perks up big time when it is brought outside for the summer is the Airplane or Spider Plant. Michael doesn't understand my fondness for it, but, what can I say - I love it.

For years, I've wanted a skinny plant to go between the garage doors. This year I finally did something. I found a pot that worked and decided to dig up Miscanthus 'Gold Bar', which was doing nothing in the ground, and it is doing much better in the pot. I'm not sure how long it will be happy since the pot is quite narrow, but right now it works.

Canna 'Panache' is larger than it has ever been. I'm sure the reason is because I placed it in front where it gets sun for most of the day. I grew this in the ground but kept moving it around. Cannas, bananas, etc. - plants with this find of foliage I have difficulties placing with other plants.

This is a variegated Portuguese Laurel (Prunus lusitanica 'Variegata') that I got at Cistus Nursery. I'm not sure how long it will reside here. Can one grow a laurel in a pot? Time will tell.

Geranium 'Vancouver Centennial'. I've had this one for years and overwinter it in the garage.

I saw this impatiens at the nursery and liked it. I envisioned it filling up this pot and really making a statement. Wrong! It has been a puny grower, but the blooms are good.

Since our garden is rapidly becoming a shade garden, I am putting more sun-loving plants, such as panicle hydrangeas and roses, in pot (more to water!) This is Hydrangea 'Little Quickfire' and it is stunning at times. Right now, it looks a bit tired.

Another panicle hydrangea, a new one, is touted as having the reddest fall color. It is called 'Fire Light'. I'm looking forward to seeing how the blooms change.

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Hoveton Hall Estate (Norfolk, England)

2026-08-24T16:42:32.386-07:00

Hoveton Hall Gardens, Norfolk

Hoveton Hall Gardens in Norfolk offer a smaller, more intimate experience than nearby Houghton Hall, with a distinctly personal feel shaped by generations of owners. From the iconic Spider Wall Garden and its 1936 wrought‑iron gate to the peaceful Kitchen Garden and woodland walk, the feel here is more informal.

I don’t recall seeing the main Regency‑style house (1809–12). The gardens sit away from it, and we parked along a dirt road beside a large field. Even after checking a map, I’m still not sure how I missed the house—but we were here for the gardens anyway.

Hoveton Hall has been in the Buxton family since 1946. Noted landscape designer Humphrey Repton proposed plans for the layout, approaches and water features. Later, owner Christabell Burroughs transformed the grounds, creating the beloved Spider Wall Garden. The wrought‑iron spider gate, designed in 1936 by Randolph Burroughs, is one of the estate’s most photographed features.

The Spider Wall Garden

Here I am with tour organizer Bruce Wakefield (middle) and his partner Jerry (far left).

Inside the gate, the large walled garden has planting beds enclosed by low clipped boxwood hedges, in the design of a web. The gardener's cottage (seen in the above photo) faces the garden.

In the center of the Spider Garden is a spider web pebble mosaic, designed by Alan Gray of East Ruston Old Vicarage Gardens (a future post on that garden is coming up later).

The Walled Kitchen Garden

Right next door to the Spider Garden, an archway leads to another walled garden, The Kitchen Garden.

Ashmanhaugh Wood & Kidney Lake

Leaving the Spider Garden and the Kitchen Garden, we come to a much shadier area with a woodland walk ("Ashmanhaugh Wood"), bordered by hydrangeas. This leads to a man-made lake called "Kidney Lake".

This area is filled with mature rhododendron, weeping willow, grasses, and massive gunnera.

Hoveton Hall was definitely not on the grand scale as Houghton Hall, but its charm lies in its intimacy. If you are in the Norfolk area, I would highly recommend it.

(Visited June 26, 2026)

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Houghton Hall & Gardens (Norfolk, England)

2026-08-20T15:18:05.350-07:00

The sunken fountain garden at Houghton Hall

Back to the English garden tour! This is Houghton Hall and Gardens, which our group visited on July 25. It was another hot day, and this was the last garden on our itinerary.

On the way there, we were told that our time would be tight because the estate closed at 5 p.m. There would only be enough time for either the house tour or the garden, so we had to choose our preference.

Since it was so hot, I decided to take the house tour. Shortly afterward, however, our tour leader, Bruce, texted another member of the group and said that the garden was wonderful and not to miss it. When she passed that along to me, I immediately headed for the gardens!

The House at Houghton Hall

Houghton Hall was built by Sir Robert Walpole, the first Earl of Orford. He inherited the family home and decided to rebuild it on a much grander scale. The new house was designed in the Palladian style by Colen Campbell and James Gibbs, with interiors decorated by William Kent.

Walpole was one of the richest men in England and spared no expense. He wanted Houghton Hall to be a showplace for his elaborate hunting parties.

After his death in 1745, the house passed to his son. However, the elder Walpole had left significant debts—£40,000—and the estate went into decline. It passed through a succession of three more Earls, the last being Horace Walpole, author of The Castle of Otranto, which is considered the first Gothic novel. I've been meaning to read it for a long time.

Upon Horace Walpole's death in 1797, the estate passed to his sister Mary. The house was rented out for two decades before becoming the residence of George Cholmondeley, a descendant of the Walpoles. His wealthy wife, Sybil (Sassoon), was instrumental in restoring Houghton Hall to its former glory.

Compared with the relatively restrained exterior of the house, the interior is remarkably elaborate. A series of state rooms are lavishly decorated with rich colors and ornate details.

We entered the Stone Hall, a room filled with white marble and plasterwork, along with elaborate ornaments, carvings, and statuary.

Again, I was transfixed by the ceiling medallions above the chandeliers.

The Saloon's walls are covered in rich red fabric with gilded accent decorations around the ceiling and doors.

The White Drawing Room features a set of carved and gilded chairs, covered with silk and velvet coverings.

The Green Velvet Bedchamber features a fifteen-foot-tall bed adorned in green velvet. This was a guest bedroom, and tradition dictated that newlywed family members spend their first night here.

The Embroidered Bed Chamber is described as the most sumptuous room in the house—if that's possible! The 17th-century bed is decorated with embroidered curtains featuring Oriental and chinoiserie patterns.

The Cabinet Room is decorated with blue, hand-painted Chinese wallpaper and carved, gilded Rococo mirrors.

The Walled Garden at Houghton Hall

The five-acre walled garden at Houghton Hall is completely flat and divided into rectangular rooms separated by hedges. The garden was originally a kitchen garden.

In 1991, the owner, Lord Cholmondeley, his gardener Paul Underwood, and garden designers Julian and Isabel Bannerman redesigned the garden as a memorial to Cholmondeley's grandmother, Lady Sybil—the woman responsible for restoring Houghton Hall from ruin in the 1920s.

The rose garden and perennial borders are among the highlights, with long borders creating strong views through the garden.

The Bannermans designed this rustic temple that features antlers from the white deer that roam the estate.

One of the most interesting features was an artwork called "Waterflame" by Danish artist Jeppe Hein. Yes, that is a mixture of fire and water. I don't know why I didn't think to make a video.

"Waterflame" by Jeppe Hein

An impressive begonia in the Conservatory.

This is a fruit cage, which houses mostly berries, also designed by the Bannermans. It is surrounded by a sea of poppies.

The Mediterranean Garden.

Our tour guide, Emma, is standing in front of a pile of stones. I'm not sure whether this was an art exhibit or the remnants of one!

Houghton Hall was a wonderful way to end our day of garden touring. I'm very glad Bruce encouraged us to visit the gardens after I had originally decided to spend my limited time inside the house. The house was fascinating, but the gardens were definitely worth seeing.

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Grindelia integrifolia (Puget Sound Gumweed)

2026-08-14T19:27:37.993-07:00

Grindelia integrifolia (Puget Sound Gumweed): A Pacific Northwest Native

For about a month now, I've had blooms on this interesting plant that I stumbled upon at Yard N' Garden Land last year. I planted it in July, mainly out of curiosity, but also because I try to add native plants to the garden whenever possible.

The plant is Grindelia integrifolia, commonly known as "Puget Sound Gumweed" or "Willamette Valley Gumweed." It is native to the Pacific Northwest, including British Columbia, Washington and Oregon.

The name "gumweed" comes from the sticky, gumlike resin that coats the flower buds. The resin isn't noticeable unless you touch it. It is a perennial and is sometimes referred to as an herb. Native American tribes in the Pacific Northwest used the resin to treat ailments including coughs, asthma, and skin rashes from poison ivy.

Aside from the flowers, the plant isn't particularly interesting-looking. It has tall stalks, reaching about 4 feet in my garden, and the foliage reminds me of an aster. It is a member of the sunflower family (Asteraceae). The flowers are relatively small and dainty in appearance.

This plant is actually classified as a wetland plant, although it will grow well in non-wet areas. I have it situated in one of the drier locations in the garden, but I do water it at least once a week.

The genus is named after Russian botanist David Hieronymus Grindel (1776–1836).

This is a nice late-summer perennial that provides pollen and nectar for butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects.

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Sandringham House & Gardens - A Visit to the Royal Family’s Norfolk Retreat

2026-08-11T21:25:25.315-07:00

Sandringham House and Gardens, in Norfolk, is one of the best-known royal residences in England. The privately owned country retreat has been associated with the British royal family since 1862 and is traditionally where the family gathers for Christmas. Sandringham, along with Balmoral in Scotland, is a privately owned royal residence rather than a Crown Estate property.

Unlike many of England's enormous country houses, Sandringham feels surprisingly intimate and comfortable. After touring the house and exploring the gardens, I could understand why generations of the Royal Family have been so fond of this place.

Sandringham House

The Jacobean-style house at Sandringham has been called "the most comfortable house in England". It has been in the royal family since 1862, when it was purchased as a country retreat for Edward VII and his future wife Alexandra of Denmark. Edward's son, George V, called Sandringham his favorite place on Earth, and decades later, George VI (father of Queen Elizabeth) made similar sentiments.

The main living area (The Great Saloon) was filled with books, DVDs, framed photographs, paintings, musical instruments, and jigsaw puzzles laid out on a large table, fireplaces, plush sofas and chairs. A large-screen TV sat on a table, in plain sight, not hidden away in an armoire. Neighboring drawing rooms were filled with display cases holding various collections of ornaments, and a piano sat in a circular nook, surrounded by windows overlooking the gardens.

The Gardens at Sandringham

The 60-acre gardens that surround the house were partly designed by Geoffrey Jellicoe. Other additions were added over the years by Queen Elizabeth, when she employed Eric Savill to remodel and update some of the garden areas. In 2023, Charles replaced the huge lawn in front of the house with a magnificent "environmentally friendly" topiary garden.

A long road leads to the main house, and along the way, newly planted trees were everywhere. The heat wave was still going on, and this was a common sight -

Down the path from the main house is an ornamental lake and rockworks, created by James Pulham in the 1880s. He also designed a summerhouse for Queen Alexandra in 1912. It is called "The Nest". This photo was taken from inside the summerhouse, looking out to the lake -

St. Mary Magdalene Church

The St. Mary Magdalene Church is a medieval church used by the Royal family when in residence at Sandringham. The building dates back to the sixteenth century, and was restored in 1855. The stained glass window was designed by Charles Eamer Kempe. The silver altar was presented to Queen Alexandra by American department-store magnate Rodman Wanamaker as a memorial tribute to Edward VII.

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

The Chaotic August Garden

2026-08-04T17:52:40.323-07:00

It is that time of year when the garden seems to take a frantic leap with new growth and an unrestrained protest. This year doesn't seem to be as bad as others, as I have more time now to devote to the garden. The weather has been tolerable with just a few extreme heat days so far. However, August is not off to a good start, with a major wildfire in eastern Washington and the next three days nearing 100 degrees.

A few days ago, we had the perfect day - semi to mostly cloudy, temperatures in the low 70s and not a whiff of humidity. It was heavenly. I took a lot of photos that day, but many of these were taken back in July.

The above scene, showing our front walk, looks rather tame. If you pan the camera to the left, however, it is a bit more busy -

By this time in the season, watering is a drudge, but if you have pots, it is a must. I reduced our containers this year slightly, but it still takes me about an hour and a half to water every morning. Even some of the pots are bursting this time of year, especially when planted with things like salvia. What was i thinking? -

On the other hand, I kind of like it -

A pot that I've had a few years and it is one of my favorites. The huechera is 'Red Lightning', one of the few huecheras I have success with. The cape fuchsia (Phygelius) is 'Colorburst Yellow'. It was a gift and it has performed admirably. It is almost in constant bloom. Both of these are Terra Nova plants.

The terraces in the back garden have the most wild, untamed feeling. I keep thinking about redoing them with lower-growing plants so that you can actually see the walls. This photo is an elevated view. I'm actually looking down on it -

High summer is the time for lilies. Most of mine are now in pots. I have always taken lilies as sun-loving plants but on recent garden tours, I noticed many that were growing and blooming in quite a lot of shade. Live and learn!

I love Tiger Lilies and planted these last fall.

I should not be surprised by lilies in the shade because this 'Stargazer' lily has bloomed for years in almost complete light shade.

Most of the clematis are taking a break but there are a few exceptions. The winner for most blooms this year is 'Josephine'. It got off to a late start (it wasn't blooming when we had our open garden and I was miffed about it), but it has made up for lost time. It hasn't stopped blooming!

Last fall, I moved 'Comtesse de Bouchaud' to the front garden, where it would have more room and more sun. It has made its way up over the panel arch I created and is mingling with Deodar 'Feelin' Blue'. The first blooms have appeared -

Most of the roses are also on hiatus, but 'Lady of Shallot' has already rebloomed -

'Robin Hood' also keeps producing -

I am thrilled with the oleander (Nerium oleander 'Hardy White'). It was planted last June. It is right next to the south wall of the house for extra protection -

One of my favorite small trees, maybe my #1 pick, is the 'Golden Spirit' smoke tree. It always looks great -

Other plants that look good now -

Echinacea 'White Swan'

Hydrangea 'Little Quickfire' and Phormium 'Rainbow Queen'

Lydia Broom, Caryopteris, Gaura 'Beeliza Dark Pink', Barberry 'Rose Glow'

Fuchsia 'Little Giant'

Veronicacastrum 'Queen of Diamonds'

This time of year, I like the shadier areas best of all -

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Barnsdale Gardens (Rutland, England)

2026-08-02T16:20:34.225-07:00

A collection of 38 small gardens, each one unique and covering a specific theme, Barnsdale Gardens was the creation of Geoff Hamilton, the host of "Gardener's World" from 1979 until his death in 1996. I am a big fan of "Gardener's World" and watch it every week, although I didn't watch when Hamilton hosted it.

It is my understanding that the gardens here were actually used in the filming of the show.

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Garden Tour - 5 Southwest Portland Gardens

2026-07-21T18:14:26.132-07:00

This past Saturday, some friends and I made a day of one of my favorite activities - looking at other people's gardens. The tour featured five gardens in the southwest Portland area and was sponsored by the Hardy Plant Society of Oregon.

Our first stop was the only garden that I've seen before - Stephen Morgan & Marilyn Laufenberg's colorful garden that overlooks Stephen's Creek Natural Area, which is a steep ravine. I've been to their garden at least two times in the past. I absolutely love it, and I'm always astounded at what they have accomplished. Just looking at the terrain, it is obvious that this was no easy feat.

The garden wraps around the back of their home and is a series of steps and narrow pathways, brimming with all kinds of plants (many tropical) and touches of whimsey.

My laugh of the day came when I saw this sign posted at the entry to the garden -

They said that the rabbits had been terrible this year. You would not notice it by looking around - I certainly didn't.

One thing I love about this garden is that there are numerous places to sit and enjoy the views. The largest sitting area is this beautiful deck that gives a bird-eye view of the garden -

Then there are smaller, cozier places to relax -

There are lovely vignettes at every turn -

And whimsey -

Looking up from the lowest pathway -

The street-side of the house is shaded and the front entry is fantastic -

There were lots of lilies, even in the shadier spots in front -

On to the second garden, which belongs to Vivian and David Solomon. In the front is a small vegetable garden, surrounded by a deer fence that was the talk of everyone. It was beautiful and I totally forgot to get a photo or make a note of the fence designer's name that was on a plaque.

The front garden was once shaded but an ice storm in 2024 took out several trees and it became a sun garden -

The back is shadier, with massive firs towering overhead. A slope leads down to a cottage garden -

My friend Linda admiring the cape fuchsia (Phygelius) and wondering if this is one plant! -

Something you don't see that often in gardens here - a hammock! -

But, no time for relaxation as we are on to the third garden - Dian Kinzey-Morby and Jack Morby's garden, which was also wonderfully shaded by mature trees.

This garden won me over right away because there were Ghirardelli chocolates and lemonade. And an interesting water feature to admire while eating chocolate -

Described on the brochure as "a bird and plant paradise", the garden has perennials, ferns and a variety of trees and shrubs. There is an observation deck at the back that overlooks the garden.

I was eager to see Barry & Karen Gates' new garden in Beaverton. I visited their last garden in Camas a few years ago. They sold that rural, five-acre property (they had lived there for over 30 years), and downsized to a house to be nearer family. And downsize they did! The new garden is 7,000 square feet!

In the short time since they moved in, they had a professional hardscape installed to improve drainage. Planting beds run along the perimeter of the garden. They brought four U-Haul truck loads of plants from their last garden.

One of those areas is the "desert garden", an elevated berm filled with loose soil and gravel. The area in the foreground is planted with sedum and other low-growing plants that like sun and low-water. Bees were buzzing all over this area.

There are a large number of pots and bonsai -

The light here is part-sun to full sun. Along the shadier fence row are conifers, hostas, rhododendron and fuchsias -

And, last but not least, this little guy. He doesn't belong to them but visits daily and follows Barry around the garden. They said he is a good guy and he doesn't bother birds -

The last garden of the day is the garden of Gene Rozenboom and Randy Patton. It is called "De Tuin Bij Montmore". This garden was a treat because we got a guided tour from Gene! He walked us around and pointed out the most interesting and unusual plants, and there were many.

Closest to the house is a large collection of conifers, including some miniature varieties. There was a very cute 'Whipcord' arborvitae that I apparently didn't get a photo of. -

They recently purchased the adjoining property - more space to garden! It is here that they installed the "Dutch Wave" garden, inspired by Piet Oudolf. Unfortunately, the sun and time of day were not conducive for good photos -

The tall plant with the fuzzy white balls is Eryngium yuccifolium, with the
dreadful common name of "Rattlesnake Master".

It was a very nice day, with temperatures in the 70s, not any of that crazy 100F stuff that we are having today (as I'm writing this, the temperature is exactly 100).

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Norwich Cathedral

2026-07-20T15:48:26.497-07:00

Norwich Cathedral, just across the street from our hotel, is an impressive feat of architecture. It dates back to 1096, when it was founded by the first Bishop of Norwich, Herbert de Losinga.

The Spire measures 315 feet and is the second tallest in England (Salisbury is the tallest). The current spire is the third (the first was blown down in a storm and the second destroyed in a fire), having been completed in 1485. The spire is home to many peregrine falcons.

The Cloister is the largest in the country.

The monument honors Bishop John Pelham (1857-1893).

The McLean Windows, in the Trinity, were designed by abstract expressionist artist John McLean and installed in 2014. They cast a colorful glow through the hallways.

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Norwich, England

2026-07-19T17:29:34.870-07:00

We stayed three nights in Norwich and I loved this quaint, charming town. It is reputed to be the most authentic medieval town in the UK.

Our hotel was the Maid's Head. It is the oldest hotel in England and dates back 800 years. Right across the street from us is Norwich Cathedral. I have a lot of photos of it alone and will post them later.

We had several opportunities to walk around and explore the town. The cobbled streets, architecture, waterways, bridges, it was all beautiful and fascinating.

This wall was typical, with bricks, rocks and a variety of materials incorporated.

Our course, the front gardens were of particular interest!

There was a big shopping district with stores and great places to eat. This was located in the shadow of Norwich Castle that was on the hill opposite.

Norwich Castle

The view from Norwich Castle

I finally got a chance to visit Waterstone's book store.

(Visited June 25, 26, 27, 2026)

Three Rushton Gardens: Cottesbrook Hall, Kelmarsh Hall, Broughton Grange

2026-07-12T22:32:52.163-07:00

Cottesbrook Hall

We saw a lot of sheep on this trip, especially at our first stop of the day, Cottesbrook Farm. After passing through the gate, a gravel road wound through a pasture and across a creek. A large flock of sheep was relaxing in the shade of some mature trees. A few were standing right on the road, so we had to stop and wait for them to wander out of the way.

Cottesbrook Hall is the home of the Macdonald family, known for their Black Label whisky. The house is believed to have been the inspiration for Jane Austen's Mansfield Park.

This was my favorite garden of the day. It was filled with beautiful garden rooms, gorgeous brickwork, and tranquil water features. There were delightful little vignettes around every corner!

Kelmarsh Hall

From their website: Kelmarsh Hall is a Grade I-listed country house built in 1732, surrounded by Grade II*- listed gardens, set in the heart of a traditional agricultural estate. They are now in the care of an independent charitable trust, The Kelmarsh Trust, charged with maintaining it in perpetuity for the benefit of the nation.

The main part of the garden was a large walled garden filled with perennials, herbs and vegetables. It was another hot day. There was no shade in the walled garden, so it was very uncomfortable. Other areas of the garden did have shade to escape to.

Broughton Grange

The final stop of the day was Broughton Grange. Dating back to 1620, the estate was owned by the Morrell family for 200 years. It was purchased by the present owners in 1992. In 2001, Tom Stuart-Smith, transformed a 6-acre field into a terraced garden. Punctuated by tall, slender trimmed yews, large swaths of perennials and grasses fill the area, along with a rill and a large pool of water.

Farther out, there is a large fountain garden surrounded by a billion orange poppies. Descending down the slope is a lush woodland garden (probably my favorite part of the this garden). There is also a stumpery, a rose garden and a knot garden.

(Visited June 24, 2026)

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Blenheim Palace

2026-07-09T12:16:33.478-07:00

Blenheim Place is one of the largest houses in England. It was built between 1705 and 1722. Queen Anne donated the property and partially funded the house to the 1st Duke of Marlborough, John Churchill, as a reward for his military achievements against France in the War of the Spanish Succession. It has been described as the English answer to Versailles.

These photos were taken from the back of the house.

The building of the house was a dramatic undertaking with volatile arguments between John Churchill's wife Sarah (by all accounts, a formidable character) and the architect John Vanbrugh. In the 2018 film "The Favourite", Sarah is portrayed by Rachel Weisz (Olivia Colman plays Queen Anne). I saw the film and liked it very much but I need to revisit it. To my knowledge, the film doesn't have anything to do with the events of Blenheim Palace.

One of the most striking features are the six eyes that adorn the ceiling of the entryway. They were added by the second wife of the 9th Duke of Marlborough, Gladys Deacon. The blue eyes are a replica of her eyes (no one knows about the brown eyes). It is an unexpected jolt to look up and see them.

The house is also famous as the birthplace of Winston Churchill. He was born in this "plain" room, right off the hallway from the elaborate rooms between it -

The more elaborate interiors -

I'm always intrigued by the ceilings -

The tour of the house was fascinating and worth the visit. Before the tour, however, the gardens and exterior had been a disappointment. And part of that was due to the extreme heat, with very little shade. Upon arriving, it was a long walk from the parking lot to the entrance. After going through the entry gate, a huge courtyard led to a view of endless scaffolding and a sea of chairs being set up for an upcoming concert (Katy Perry, Alanis Morisette, Michael Buble).

Despite the grand architecture, this entry court was very unappealing with no shade or greenery to be seen (maybe potted plants were moved away for the construction).

If you plan to explore the grounds, be prepared for a lot of walking. The formal gardens surrounding the house are impressive, but you cannot walk among them. Venturing out into the Capability Brown landscape was a hot and thankless experience. I heard that the walled garden was the thing to see and after endless walking in the hot sun, I was rewarded with this -

A newly renovated "Secret Garden" on the way back to the house was nicer and a refreshing respite from the heat, but still not worth the walk -

This was a puzzling scene - a big bed of cannas surrounded by starts of what looked like privet. It finally occurred to me that this is probably going to be sheared and shaped into a topiary-like design -

The house tour was definately worth the visit. I'm sure the gardens would have been more fun had it been a cloudy day.

(Visited June 23, 2026)

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Waterperry Gardens (Oxfordshire)

2026-07-07T16:18:25.588-07:00

Waterperry Gardens

As you probably guessed, my plan to "blog as I go" failed. The fault lies with Blogger or Google, as I could not upload my photos to Blogger on my phone without getting an error message. I tried but eventually gave up. I did post faithfully to Instagram and Facebook, so if you follow me there, you have seen these photos already.

I made it home safely late last week. I had a great time and saw several gardens that I only dreamed I would ever see.

On day 2, we departed Windsor and headed north. Here we are leaving the Christopher Wren Hotel and heading for Oxfordshire. The first half of the tour was very hot with record temperatures. Our bus was nice and cold though.

Enroute to our next hotel, our first stop was Waterperry Gardens in Oxfordshire. I had never heard of it before. It was started as a horticultural school for women in 1932 (very unusual at the time) by Beatrix Havergal and her partner Avice Sanders.

Beatrix Havergal (photographed by Cecil Beaton)

What started out as mostly a vegetable demonstration garden grew into a vast garden with a 200 ft perennial border, a lily pool, test garden for perennials and much more. There is a nursery on site and a gift shop. I bought my first souvenir- a steel Burgon & Ball steel sharpening tool.

The 200 ft. perennial border (at the top of the post and below) runs alongside a brick wall. The perennials were massive and at their peak.

The expansive garden is laid out as a series of rooms, some walled in and some separated by large areas of grass. Many rooms, like the rose garden (below) were enclosed in meticulously clipped hedges.

The Canal -

The Formal Garden / Silent Space

The Alpine Garden -

The River Thame runs along one side of the garden. A woodland trail meanders beside

it -

An interesting museum contains hundreds of ancient tools -

The Nursery -

Beatrix Havergal (second from right) and a group of her students

(Visited June 23, 2026)

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Savill Garden - a second visit

2026-06-22T20:18:04.241-07:00

This was a repeat for me. The Savill Garden was on the tour last year. Of course, it is later in the year, so different things to see. Uncomfortably warm. The best thing were the hydrangeas and the stunning alstroemeria that you can see in the top photo. The rose garden was mostly spent which makes me wonder about Sissinghurst next week.

This was the most impressive Persicaria ‘Planter’s Palette’ I’ve seen. We grow it in our garden but it has never flourished. I’m sure it needs more sun.

‘Flame Thrower’ redbud is called ‘Eternal Flame’ here in the UK.

(Visited June 22, 2026)

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Windsor Castle

2026-06-22T20:10:22.722-07:00

After breakfast, the group walked up to Windsor Castle. Very crowded with people and souvenir shops. Unfortunately reminded me of Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This was the line of people at the castle. The line moved fast though.

Most of my photos are exterior as indoor photography is not allowed. That did not deter people however. I took a few of Queen Mary’s dollhouse because it was in a dark room and very incredible.

The Queen Mary’s dollhouse stood at least 6 feet tall and had four sides.

The most incredible though was the chapel (outside view below). It was unbelievably beautiful- the architecture, ceiling, crypts, stained glass windows, arches, just stunning.

(Visited June 22, 2026)

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Eton College

2026-06-22T12:57:18.497-07:00

This morning after breakfast, John Barker and I walked around town, before our tour of Windsor Castle. We walked down to Eaton College where we saw amazing architecture. There were students all over the place, but apparently classes are over and this was the last day.

(June 22, 2026)

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Windsor England

2026-06-21T14:56:45.309-07:00

I’m back in England again, this time for a garden tour of southeast England. I’m trying something different this time. Instead of waiting until I get back home and taking forever to get everything posted, I’m going to try it on my phone. Since I failed miserably at keeping a written journal on my last trip, this will be a true and original use of a blog - an online diary.

Unfortunately, there are limitations, the main one being that my text will probably be lacking.

My 11 hour flight landed today (Sunday morning) around 9:30 am. Right off the bat, I discovered that there is not a train from London to Windsor. That left me with either the option of a taxi or bus. I am still an amateur at all this (Lois Moss, where are you!). Despite the expense, I took the easiest option- a taxi. The 20 mile ride cost me 60 pounds!

Arrived at the hotel too early to check in, but they did hold my luggage. It was hot and I was overdressed to walk around too much. I spent a lot of time reading on a shaded bench in a charming little garden in front of the hotel. The hotel is the Christopher Wren. He has great historical interest, but there isn’t time to research.

After finally getting checked in around 2pm, the day improved. After taking a much needed nap, I went to the welcome dinner. I had cauliflower soup, lemon chicken and brownie. After dinner, I took a walk and took photos.

Tomorrow, Windsor Castle (which is right next door to the hotel) and Saville Garden.

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Lychnis 'Orange Gnome'

2026-06-16T22:29:34.094-07:00

In an earlier post, I was praising Lychnis 'Petite Jenny'. Well, here is another one that I'm loving at the moment. It is named 'Orange Gnome' and the flowers are much larger.

I've actually tried to grow this before, in the ground, but wasn't successful. It is performing spectacularly in a pot. I have it planted with a canna and a celosia. The other two plants are not doing much yet, but 'Orange Gnome' has been blooming for weeks now, and I just deadheaded some of it today. The flowers are a vivid, neon orange, and the foliage is an attractive bronze color.

This is a sun-loving plant. I have it in a spot with mostly sun, although it gets morning shade. The pot gets watered daily and occasional fertilizing with bloom booster and sometimes fish emulsion.

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Volunteering at Rogerson Clematis Garden

2026-06-15T17:32:06.085-07:00

I've been doing some volunteer work at the Rogerson Clematis Garden and, aside from the torturous drive, I've been enjoying it. Not only is it a beautiful place to spend time, but I'm also learning more about growing these lovely plants.

If you love clematis and have never visited the nursery, you're in for a treat. They have the largest collection of clematis in the United States. There is a plant trial garden, a beautiful display garden, and a sales area where you can purchase plants (their availability list is posted on their website).

A few weeks ago, I visited the garden and nursery with some friends and came home with two plants: Clematis 'Princess Kate' and 'Fond Memories'. I was especially excited to find 'Fond Memories'. I've wanted it ever since seeing it featured in Linda Beutler's book (Linda is the curator of the garden).

'Fond Memories'

In most photos, 'Fond Memories' appears predominantly white with just a hint of lavender along the edges. So I was surprised to discover that mine is mostly lavender. I'm certainly not complaining, though—I think it's gorgeous.

I haven't planted either clematis yet. I'm still deciding where they should go, and we're currently in the middle of a heat wave (96 degrees today). I also wanted to wait until they bloomed because they're best cut back when planted.

After that first shopping trip, I placed another order for a clematis. You can order online and pick up your plants at the nursery. Since I would have to make the long drive to collect it, I thought, why not volunteer and help with some weeding while I'm there? So that's exactly what I did, and I've since returned for a second volunteer session.

I've already learned a few things. For one, I had no idea you could buy horticultural grit at Wilco (although I think it's sold under a different name). This fine gravel is used to top-dress potted plants and is also incorporated into the soil when planting.

My first assignment was to plant four large "Montana' variety clematis, assisted by Peggy, who gave me tips and explained how they planted. My second discovery - a "Root Slayer shovel" - where have I been? This is the bed where the clematis were planted - along the side fence of the sales terrace. The clematis should cover the fence completely. The tall plants in front are non-climbing bush-type clematis.

These required quite a large hole, but the soil was very easy to dig, especially with the root slayer shovel. Compost and fertilizer are added to the hole. Mission accomplished -

Next up was some weeding, pruning a viburnum and more planting. On my most recent visit, I did more weeding and helped set up tables and chairs for an event they were having.

I did get a few photos of the display garden. Most of these were taken on my shopping visit a few weeks ago. The nursery is located at Luscher Farm in Lake Oswego. The display gardens surround the old farmhouse which you can see in the background -

Clematis mandshurica

The white flowered clematis is Clematis mandshurica. I was not familiar with it. It resembles the Sweet Autumn Clematis (Clematis terniflora) that blooms in late summer.

Of course, like working at Yard N' Garden Land, one drawback to all this is being enticed by plants.

I meant to ask someone about the identity of the plant on the right. Maybe rhododendron? Most of the plants in the garden are well-labeled, but I could not get close to this one.

'Petit Faucon'

'Warszawska Nike'

A volunteer Verbascum

Such great fun and a wonderful group of people to work with. I hope to do more in a few weeks.

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Campanula 'Birch Hybrid'

2026-06-13T13:33:29.340-07:00

I've finally discovered a groundcover that thrives in a challenging spot! I originally planted Campanula 'Birch Hybrid' along the edge of the north-facing border in my front garden, where it receives mostly shade from a large Skimmia and other plants behind it. Despite the limited sunlight, this resilient plant flourished, spreading cheerfully and adorning itself with beautiful lavender-blue blooms in late May. The blooming display lasts for quite some time.

Delighted by its performance, I decided to relocate some of it to another tricky area, specifically a tight spot right by the driveway entrance. This space is constricted on one side by a large boulder and bordered on the other by the concrete driveway. I’ve tried various plants here—pansies, lantana, thyme—and they all struggled. Yet, this Campanula has proven to be the best performer.

The "Birch" in its name comes from a renowned hybridizing nursery in England. It is a cross between the Dalmatian Bellflower (Campanula portenschlagiana) and the Serbian Bellflower (Campanula posharskyana), both of which originate from the Balkans, particularly Croatia. These plants thrive in rocky soil and are excellent candidates for rock gardens.

Now, I'm experimenting with it in a third location. When I first transplant it, the plant often appears unhappy and tends to wilt. You might think there’s no hope for it, but patience pays off. It may take a few weeks, but in my experience, the plant will revive and flourish.

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Dwarf Spirea (Spiraea Morrisonicola)

2026-06-09T09:34:51.596-07:00

I don't remember what prompted me to purchase this plant at Dancing Oaks Nursery a few years ago. I may have fallen for the nursery's description (I'm really good at that!), or perhaps it was simply because it was such a cutie patootie sitting there on the display table. I seem to recall buying it on impulse after I had already arrived at the nursery. Whatever the reason, I brought it home, read a little about its preferred growing conditions, planted it, and then largely forgot about it.

I didn't completely forget about it, however, because I planted it right at the beginning of the gravel pathway leading into the back garden. It's one of the first plants you see after stepping through the back gate. It turned out to be an excellent location because it has done very well there. It is a slow grower, remaining compact and small. As advertised, it would make an excellent plant for a rock garden.

The botanical name for this interesting little plant is Spiraea morrisonicola. It is also known as "Morrison's Spirea" and "Mount Morrison Meadowsweet", named after the mountain range in Taiwan from which it originates. There, it thrives in cool, moist conditions and rocky soils.

Astilbe 'Amber Moon'

2026-06-04T22:07:53.481-07:00

My favorite plant in the shade garden right now is Astilbe 'Amber Moon'. Once the rhododendrons have finished flowering and before the hydrangeas are blooming, the woodland border is a sea of green. This modest little plant suddenly stands out like a beacon. Its bright chartreuse foliage catches my eye every time, and is always surprising. I have to stop and think a minute to remember what it is.

'Amber Moon' is a form of Chinese astilbe (Astilbe chinensis) and looks quite different from the more familiar astilbes found in gardens. It forms a neat, compact mound that reaches only about 18 inches in height, making it an excellent choice for the front of a shaded border. Although it is reported to produce flowers later in the season, mine has yet to bloom.

As striking as the spring foliage is, the plant becomes even more interesting as the season progresses. The vivid chartreuse leaves gradually develop warm coppery tones, creating a dramatic display that lasts well into the growing season.

In my garden, it grows in a predominantly shady location with a little early morning sun and dappled light for the rest of the day. The soil remains consistently moist, providing the woodland conditions that this plant seems to appreciate.

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Joanne & Larry Turner's Garden (Kelso, Washington)

2026-06-01T18:22:50.490-07:00

Last week, I drove up to Kelso to visit Joanne and Larry Turner, who had cut some trees and had limbs for me to use in my twig fence. They have a great property, way out in the country. Fresh, crisp air and no traffic noise, just bird song. It is really beautiful.

The garden was at its peak, a tad behind our garden closer to the city. The dogwoods were magnificent. Joanne grew many of them from seed. The one in the above photo is 'Venus'. I'm not sure about the one below.

The Turners have a lot of rhododendrons and they were spectacular. Joanne told me the names of all of these and of course, I don't remember the names now.

I love to see rhododendrons that have been shaped into trees. They have a nice one -

I was impressed with their Mountain Laurel (Kalmia). In our garden, they are so slow growing, but perhaps we just have dwarf varieties. That occurred to me when I saw these, which were around 7 feet tall.

And, finally, Joanne has a lot of perennials and many unusual groundcovers. She shared some with me - Zebra Squill (Cooper's False Scilla, Ledebouria cooperi), Rhodoxis in two colors, a pale pink and a deep fuchsia, and Gentian, which I will be attempting for the third time.

Beautiful iris -

And this flower, which was new to me. It is Dichelostemma ida-maia (according to my plant ID app) -

I was happy to get the twigs, but so glad I was there at the peak bloom time in their garden. Thanks Joanne and Larry!

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Take Time to Smell the Roses

2026-05-30T21:05:27.895-07:00

'Julia Child'

The roses look great right now, but then again, I think they always do when they are having that first flush, and the leaves are usually unblemished. They are definely the highlight of the garden at the moment.

'Eden' and 'Phyllis Bide'

'Robin Hood' and 'Alchymist'

'Veilchenblau'

'Westerland'

'Buff Beauty'

'Champagne Wishes'

'Chinatown'

'Dublin Bay'

'The Impressionist'

'Lady of Shallot'

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Open Garden this weekend

2026-05-19T20:52:20.856-07:00

Our garden will be open this weekend on Saturday and Sunday, May 23-24, 10am-4pm (both days). (If you are a member of the Hardy Plant Society, there is a mini-tour on Sunday with three other gardens in our area. Check their website for details. You do not have to be a member to visit our garden on either day)

The roses are looking nice, but the annuals and pots are having a slow start. So there may be some holes, but at least there will be cookies!

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy