- The Bunnies' Buffet

Stumble Back In ... Can It Have Been THAT Long ?!!

2015-09-26T19:39:00.002-05:00

It seems like it was just a while ago that I posted an update ? Apparently not!

Casual gardening is still a passion and I have become a rabid Instagram user over the last few years. Posting garden pictures is "instant" gratification (go figure) and the photo eTools are so user-friendly. Then there is Pinterest - 55 boards and 15,400 pins later, I am hopelessly addicted to imagery (made even easier with a smart phone app that is incredibly accessible).

But today, I impulsively looked back to the online tool that started it all... Google Blogger, and the Bunnies Buffet. Looking back at the evolution of my gardens - from 'scratch' to now, there have been big gains. It was a cool and rainy start to Spring and Summer 2015. As a result, most plants are very robust and mature. Like, the gardens finally "grew up" this season!

Front Garden - Summer of 2015
'Dark Towers' Penstemon & Dark Purple Smoke Bush

Front Garden - the Early Years
What a difference a few years make ?!

Front Garden - Back in the Beginning
(Another blank canvas...)

Patience is a lesson learned as a gardener. Paying attention to the 'little tag' attached to plants makes all the difference. Slow growers, fast growers - plant sizes - best growing conditions. Sun, shade, plant life cycles... and sometimes, if it doesn't grow - it might not be a plant for you?!

The new "West Wing" Garden (Summer 2015)
Tall Shasta Daisies, Tiger Lilies, Monarda, Center Glow Ninebark, 'Sunset Mexican' Gaillardia, Autumn Joy Sedum

There really isn't a 'before' picture - because it would have just been the Ninebark. Now it's a wild riot of blooms and color. Can't wait for it to continue to fill in...

Window view of the backyard gardens - 2015 (
[Cottage Garden - SW corner & Sun Garden - along the house]
(In 2009 - this was a blank canvas)

Yes - it was this blank.
[Future Sun Garden view]

[Future Cottage Garden - SW corner]

In 6 years there have been triumphs and lessons learned. Plants that thrived (Stella D 'Ora, Golden Vicary Privet, Hosta, Karl Forester grass, to name a few) and plants that just wouldn't grow for me for more than a year or so (Pink Guara, Moonbeam Coreopsis, Rhododendron and Lavender). Friends shared plants (Phlox, Iris and Giant Shasta Daisies). Other plants naturalized when I least expected it (Hollyhock & Monarda).

...And Voila' - blank becomes abundant
[Sun Garden]
(Believe me, it's 'Mother Nature' - all Mother Nature)

Now there is time to enjoy the fruits of labor...

The "Cottage Garden" in full bloom this Summer (2015)

Looking back at all the pictures over time, it's a bit of a surprise at how much has changed...

Spring! For Real ... (finally)

2013-03-31T19:57:00.000-05:00

I cannot believe it's been 3 months since I last posted?! To be honest, Mother Nature has been harsh in the Midwest - with a long lingering Winter in February & March. Gardening has typically been the last thing on my mind (other than some rabid "Pinterest" action). I follow many of you on your Facebook garden pages, along with the local Arboretum and garden nurseries, so that is a treat.

That didn't mean I didn't do periodic 'walk-arounds' in the gardens this Winter. There were a few sad moments. Bunnies have been busy, wreaking havoc again. (You would think I learn?!) They chewed through the 'bunny fence' protecting the Golden Privet and the Japanese Willow, then nipped all the branches off the former and stripped the bark off the latter. They added "insult to injury", by leaving 'organic evidence' of their frequent visits (besides foot prints in the snow).

Here is a quick collage of the my winter wanderings (double click to enlarge the photo):

Late Winter Beauty & Bunny 'Anarchy'

As you may see from the photos, the bunnies decided to help me out this year, by "pruning" the "Wine & Roses" Weigela and the variegated Red Twig Dogwood to about a third of their height. Fortunately the Double Pink Knockout Rose is protected by a metal wire fencing - safe from razor-sharp bunny incisors.

Though we are still running 10-20 degrees below normal, today was a breezy but tolerable 57F. I spent a few hours cutting back the prairie grasses and 'dusty bones' of dead plant stalks from the Pink Guara, Monarda and Daylilies. Underneath all the debris were the little lime green nibs of "Banana Creme" Shasta Daisies (Yay! "Year 2" victory), Crimson Asiatic Lilies, various Daylilies, Hollyhock, Monarda, Rudbeckia and Pink Guara.

Now, I am finally feeling the 'garden vibe' I was desperately looking for. Last year at this time, we had freakishly warm March weather - with temperatures in the low 80's. Farmers were in the fields by April 10th (unheard of, normally). This year I hear we are trailing about 2 weeks behind 'normal'. As I ward off the Spring chill wrapped in a blanket, I'll head off and catch up with my 'garden blog friends' to see how your gardens grow.

Namaste!
Shyrlene

© Photos and content are created by the Bunnies Buffet (unless otherwise noted)

Happy Holidays & Promising New Year

2012-12-28T22:13:00.000-06:00

My 'snowy' pal and I would like to wish you all a Happy Holiday Season, with hope of a Promising New Year in 2013.

"Frosty" here is actually the latest creative solution some work associates and I fabricated this 2012 Holiday Season.

For the past three years, our campus has had a friendly competition to take a traditional 6' artificial Christmas tree and design something festive. Our tree is always 'out of the ordinary' - to say the least, but we might have a slight advantage? We are the Facilities Management group -- the "nuts and bolts" folks that keep the campus running smoothly. You put a couple of building engineers, carpenters, designers, DYI-ers, and property managers in a room with some blank paper - it's going to get interesting.

We did an "Upside-down" tree in "Year 1" and an "Angel Gets it Wings" tree in "Year 2". There are expectations and anticipation on what 'Real Estate' is going to do next. Then - layer "sustainability" and "reuse/recycle/re-purpose" on top of that (because that's just 'how we roll') ... and you get "'Frosty' the Sustainable Snowman"! (95% of the materials on and behind 'Frosty' are reused or repurposed - like the shipping skids that became the fence)

Now don't get me wrong, we have R&D 'rocket scientist' types on campus that give Rube Goldberg a run for his money! The competition amps up each year. Who can only know what next holiday will bring...

But in the meantime, all the best in 2013... here's hoping for more ---

More peace .. more kindness .. more sanity

and especially more lush gardens

Pacem in MMXIII

© Content and photos by The Bunnies Buffet (unless noted)

Meandering through October ...

2012-10-27T17:00:00.001-05:00

Seeing these large gaps in my posts, I wonder what IS happening with time. It doesn't seem like I step away for that long - but the dates don't lie. I've passively watched the season change, primarily from the window - when the weather went from 90 degrees to a cloudy/windy 60 almost over night.

It's not that I haven't taken pictures or been in the garden (just a little) ... so maybe, rather than a lot of bantering, I'll just share a photo montage of Autumn photos taken as I've been out and about. There have been field trips ...

Autumn wouldn't be seasonal without a trip to a Pumpkin Farm

Classic Midwest Farm ... Red Barn & Windmill

Wicked Witch, on vigil ... I'm not messing with her !!

The rustle of leaves, the Autumn color palette and the crisp air ... ah!

The gardens at home have been quietly settling down for the season. On the other hand, the bunnies have not been so quiet. It's not a surprise, but it still pisses me off. My brand new Twilight False Indigo (Baptisia) made it through the whole summer. Now it's been stripped of all it's leaves, so now it's behind a shield of wire fence... They also started stripping the bark off of the Japanese Willow, so it looks like the whole Cottage Garden will be under lock n key through next Spring.

Last minute planting, bunny 'carnage, hot air balloons and the final blooms of the season

Even this late in the season, there are still surprise splashes of color in the garden. These little gems made my heart sing...

Late afternoon sun ...

Pink Guara - always throwing out some late blooms
(I just LOVE this plant!! Early out of the ground and the last one to leave the garden 'party'.)

EXCITEMENT: Hyacinth Bean Vine seeds - (annuals here)
(Can't wait to plant these next Spring!)

Hyacinth Bean Vine - in it's glory down in KY
(Thanks for sharing the seed pods, JC!)

And finally, the sweetest little showboat in the garden...

Provence French Lavender (Lavandula x intermedea 'Provence')
(I only wish I had purchased many, many more this year.)

Whew, now that this post is done, I can go visit my garden blog friends! I hope all is well with you...

Pacim, Amici

© Content and Photos by The Bunnies Buffet (unless noted)

Smart Technology ... and gardening ?!?

2012-09-10T23:51:00.000-05:00

There was a time ... not that long ago, that I would have laughed out loud if someone asked me if I had a 'smart phone'.

"Ooooh look at this! That cell phone technology - I think it will catch on?!"
(photo courtesy of the creative minds at Microsoft)

"Puleeezzzzzz!!! I have a perfectly good phone that 'makes phone calls' (whoa, what a concept - talking on a phone), can send text messages (to communicate with people under 30) and take pictures (Ah! Now we are talking...). What could I possibly do with a 'smart' phone, that I can't already do?" WELL! - 'how far the mighty have fallen'. I caved ... and went to 'the dark side' early this year. Yep, I "have an app for that".

My 'grab n go' "field camera"

It started innocently. The camera in the iPhone 4S is phenomenal - 8 megapixel, and the thing is attached to my "hip" anyway. So if I saw a cool plant or inspirational garden design, I could discretely whip it out (Careful now! Don't get any ideas - this post is "PG") and take a picture. No harm done!

Wild Flowers in the Florida sand dunes - 2012

But then I got hooked on the instant access to the fancier features of smart technology. Internet access, Facebook, Pinterest ... it's all so seductive and pulls you in. BUT - lo and behold, all of a sudden it came in handy when I least expected it - at a garden walk ?!! I was an invited guest for a local garden club's "twilight garden walk". As we strolled around the gardens, we came upon a lovely variegated grass - but no one could remember the name of it. It was on the tip of my tongue, but it just wouldn't come to me. Then ... DUH! I have a SMART phone!!

"... and a choir of angels sang..."
(Another clever image from the creative minds of Microsoft)

So out in the middle of a prairie, I "Googled-images" variegated grasses. Within 30 seconds I had the plant photo, Latin name and the 'Wikipedia' description of everything you wanted to know, but were afraid to ask! ...And these garden club members were astonished... (she says with a 'humble brag')

So, I've embraced this smart technology - with verve! Nothing could replace my Canon DSLR, but - in a pinch - it's a winner. In the meantime, here are a few shots of the Summer drought carnage around the Bunnies Buffet... with that sweet little smart phone:

Victims of the Summer drought & storms:
Provence French Lavender, Liatris spicata and 'New Wave' Asiatic Lily

So, now that it's cooled down a bit, maybe I can plant those perennials hidden in their pots, in part shade all Summer? I will embrace Autumn with open arms!

Pacim, Amici...

Time, Sacrifices... and "Field Trips" (Part 1)

2012-07-17T00:31:00.000-05:00

Honest, I have not given up gardening, garden blogging or lost interest in catching up with Blog friends! Right now, there simply does not seem to be enough time in the week (much less the day).

Minutes, Hours and Days - fly by in 'seconds'
(Image: from the creative minds at Microsoft Clip Art)

If you have small children and think time flies by fast, just wait until they are young adults. Time isn't measured by school holidays - it's measured in annual milestones, or even 'life' milestones. This is a big year in our home for milestones. (If you see me posting a lot after August, you'll know it's gotten really quiet around the 'old hacienda'.)

I've been on many "field trips" recently and am grateful for my new(ish) smart phone. It takes AWESOME pictures, which immediately can be emailed, posted or forwarded ... wherever and whenever. I won't even get started on it's 'WiFi' compatibility -- yes, I'm a technology geek.

University of Illinois - Urbana Champaign: the Alma Mater

This came in handy when I had the chance to visit my Alma Mater, the University of Illinois - Urbana Champaign. It is renowned for it's agricultural studies (among many others), and now more than ever - it's known for it's environmental education & sustainable applications. The University has a whole "sustainable" program. Here is a quick link if you are interested: http://sustainability.illinois.edu/ (Another reason to be a very proud 'alum'.) As I walked up on this building (see photo below) - street side, it just had something special ... later on, from another side of the building - I saw the "money shot" view. Here is the link to it's features: http://sustainability.illinois.edu/greenbuilding.html

As I came up on the building from the street, I just "knew" it was something special...

A shot from my iPhone ... this building doesn't have a bad angle.

Even the 'shape' of landscaping around the campus has changed. Dorms are being updated. Faculty is challenging their students to design new and improved (AND native) landscapes around campus. One more link: http://sustainability.illinois.edu/landscapes.html Illinois is not called the "Prairie" state for nothing.

The local community within the twin cities of Champaign and Urbana are caught up in the sustainability initiative as well. Though I didn't take a picture of it -- Champaign's public transportation is comprised of a fleet of hybrid buses. Even local businesses and churches have redesigned their surrounding landscaping, as seen in the attached photo:

A little 'fashion forward' coloring - along with drought-tolerant planting.

I had aspired to include photos from 2 other recent 'field trips' in this post - but I am a chatty blogger! I've run out of time !!! How apropos for this post ...

Garden close-up - with a little "mood" lighting

Pacim, amici ...

© All content and photos by Shyrlene Foster @ The Bunnies Buffet (unless noted)

I'm Still Here ... Pinky Swear

2012-06-27T23:22:00.001-05:00

I am still out here in the Blogosphere - really! Well ... honestly, I've only been doing a periodic 'touch down' (like a plane, not like football) from time to time. It appears that "real life" has taken precedence, but gardening still prevails in spite of it all, and even with the drought.

Perennial Hollyhock - new in the "Cottage Garden" in 2011

"Karl Forester" Feather Reed Grass - basking in afternoon sunshine

"Banana Cream" Shasta Daisies - new this year!
(Nestled in a sweep of Moonbeam Coreopsis)

There have been more impulse buys. some planting, lots of garden watering and easily letting the grass go dormant.

THIS was a good day of shopping !!!

New in the "Front Garden": Liatris spicata and Provence French Lavender
(sharing the spotlight with the 'New Wave' Asiatic Lily and Reed Grass)

"Sun Garden" filling in with Weigela, Moonbeam Coreopsis, Paprika Yarrow,
Stella D' Oro Daylilies and a Pink Guara (Center Glow Ninebark in the background)

I hope your gardens grow well - even with the challenges of this growing season.

Namaste, my friends...

© All content by "The Bunnies Buffet" (unless noted)

Rainy Days and Sundays ...

2012-05-06T16:31:00.002-05:00

I had grand aspirations for today...

April was a month of cold, windy, cloudy weekend weather; there was not much garden "maintenance" accomplished. Now there is a pressing need for composting and weeding. With recent rains and soft ground, pulling weeds should go smoothly. Well, it would have ... with a forecast of partly sunny, 70 and only a 20% chance of rain today.

Then ... the thunder rolled ...

(From the creative minds at Microsoft Clip Art)

Outdoor plans were cancelled when it became evident this was really going to be our weather for the day. I love thunderstorms, the smell of impending rain and damp earth. The rains, with extra Nitrogen from lightning, have transformed all the vegetation outside to a saturated emerald green.

Besides garden maintenance, I had hoped to get some plants in the ground. After waiting to get past the 'last frost/freeze' date (almost) for Zone 5A - I have had some impulse buys. I bought a new Hosta (Albo-Marginata Plantain Lily), to fill in a gap in the front garden. Last weekend, with the intent of window shopping, I found a "Banana Cream" Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum superbum) with my name on it. (Checking that off the 2012 Wishlist).

"Banana Cream" Shasta Daisy (Leacanthemum superbum)

This past Friday, the local Boy Scouts were having their annual plant sale. I was able to pick up two more Anemones (sylvestris), a "Turkish Delight" Sedum (ussuriense) and a perennial Pink Pampas Grass (Cortaderia selloana) that could grow up to 8-10 ft tall! Yesterday, when picking up some compost to plant, I found "Golden Globe" Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Globosa Aurea'). My intent is to pair them with the "Royal Purple" Smoke Bush in the front. I think the chartreuse-tipped evergreen will contrast beautifully with the dark plumb leaves of the Smoke Bush.

"Golden Globe" Arborvitae - soaking up the rain today
(see the Royal Purple Smoke Bush in the top left corner - a match made in Heaven?!)

Pampas Grass, Anemone and Sedum - waiting for a new garden home

Between rain bursts, I did make a quick trip around the gardens. Here are a few quick shots...

Sweet Autumn Clematis
(Amazing how delicate leaf tendrils hook a 'death grip' on the trellis; sculptured elegance/steel resolve)

Walk around the garden - 5/6/12
(White Asiatic Lily, Hollyhock, "Fire & Ice" Hosta, Weigela & Cheddar Pinks,
Sedum, Pink Double Knockout Rose bud, Candy Tuft, 'Shade Garden')

And last but not least, the pair of "Wine & Roses" Weigela I planted last year are heavy with blooms. They are absolutely stunning and I highly recommend it if you like burgundy as a plant color-option in your garden.

"Wine & Roses" Weigela - a new fave in 2011

I also wanted to mention that I have had the good fortune to have two fellow bloggers nominate me for "Versatile Blogger". Julia at Polka Dot Galoshes and Petro at The Seaman Mom have wonderful blogs you should check out. My next post will feature the "Versatile Blogger" meme. I look forward to putting it together!

Until then, pacem, amicis ...

© All content and photography by Shyrlene Foster @ the Bunnies Buffet (unless noted)

The Enchanted Garden

2012-04-15T17:32:00.000-05:00

I read on a wise person's blog recently, to make sure you bring a camera with you when you are driving around. Even in your daily travels, you never know what you will find along the way. Thanks to the technology of cell phones these days - it's even easier than ever. ...and may I say, it was sage wisdom.

Friday I was making a pilgrimage out West and took a favorite scenic route to make the drive more interesting. Along the way I came upon, what I now call, "The Enchanted Garden". Here is a comprehensive view from the road:

The "Enchanted Garden" - view one

The property is sprawling, and I have seen it from time to time - with interesting yard art over the years. But this year was different. Obviously the garden designer is an avid purple lover, and to some it could be a bit overwhelming. On the other hand, the 'green/blank space' gives your eye (and mind) enough relief - that I find this all so visually pleasing.

As you see, a lot of 'green' space with vignettes of interest deep in the property

I would have to suspect that the designer is also the owner of the home? The landscaping and yard art is so personal, that this certainly is not a traditional textbook design. While it might be personal, there has been quite an investment - both time and financially. The driveway is edged in re-purposed cobblestone pavers, which is such a nod to the history of Chicago.

What a GRAND entrance, don't you think?

If you click on the photos in this post, the images will enlarge. This will give you a chance to see some of the other visual treasures deeper in the property. There is a large totem between the trees close to the home. Seating areas with bird houses (some are big enough to be 'towers'), gazing balls, antiques and native plants and grasses keep your eye traveling near and far.

Zoom in (double click on the photo)! Note some details closer to the home

Every corner of this property was planned and planted, including the right side of the entrance which butted up to the next door neighbor's drive. No detail was overlooked. I can't wait to see what blooms later in the season.

I felt a bit guilty and awkward as I took the 5 minutes to photograph this magical place. It seemed voyeuristic and a tad invasive to be standing on the edge of the road, 'ogling' someone's work. I wish I knew more of the garden designer that created this enchanted place. I'll "Google" it - and see if there is local info on it, see if there is a local garden club that is doing a 'garden walk'. Who knows - I may even get bold enough to stop by on a Saturday afternoon? Anyone who paints their front door purple can't be too scary, right?!

So - if you haven't thought of it before, bring that point n' shoot pocket camera with you. Take advantage of that "smart" technology. Take the road less traveled, "It makes all the difference."

Pacem, amicis...

© All content and photography by Shyrlene Foster at The Bunnies Buffet (unless noted otherwise)

Up Close and Personal: Views of Spring

2012-04-08T00:57:00.002-05:00

The excitement of unseasonable temperatures is over - as is the warm weather. It might have been "Summer in March", but now -- it is definitely "Spring in April". It's windy and "brisk", but that's Ok. Plants continue to emerge from the ground in spite of cooler temps and dandelions are still thriving.

Blooms are budding on the variegated Jacob's Ladder
(a new addition in 2011)

Spring is a great time to get an 'up close and personal' view of the garden(s). With plants just at 'ankle' height, at least in Zone 5, you have to really get down to a grass roots level - usually on your knees or in a 'downward facing dog' position to see plant detail. It's worth it - contorting into yoga positions to see the more intimate details of your plants.

Happily, new additions from 2011 are breaking ground in 2012. Here are a few 'discoveries' in my travels around the yard:

Amsonia Hubrichitii - Blue Star: barely out of the ground
(Another new addition in 2011)

"May Breeze" Phlox - up and as iridescent as I remember

"Wine and Roses" Wegiela
(It cohabitates in the "Sun Garden" with Pink Guara, Moonbean Coreopsis and Cheddar Pinks"

I have taken a ton of pictures, mostly for historical purposes. Encouraged by some really talented blog photographers, Garden Walk Garden Talk and The Whimsical Gardener, I continue to play with my DSLR to see how well I can showcase what I see... and keep it interesting.

Here are a few of the 'long timers':

Royal Purple Smoke Bush
(It's growing habit is facinating: reminds me of a tall cactus)

A sunset view of "Crimson Pixie' Lillium Hybrid

PJM Rhododenron
(Back in action from a dicey Autumn and a pounding the last snowfall)

'Sargent' Crabapple (Malus sargentii)

I hope your gardens are doing well. It's compost, a dandelion 'slayer' and a spade to enlarge my gardens, for me. Wouldn't it be nice to notch out a few more hours in each day?

Looking forward to catching up on your blogs ...
Namaste my friends !!

© All content & photography by Shyrlene Foster at The Bunnies Buffet (unless noted)

Summer Before Spring? (The difference a "day" makes!)

2012-03-18T23:26:00.001-05:00

Ok, it hasn't been 'a day' - more like 10 days. I had to post as soon as possible, because the 'snow' pictures from my last entry are "so 5 minutes ago" & sending the wrong impression. The average temperature this time of year is ~ 50F. We have had an exceptionally mild winter, so when we had snow (finally, and not much) - we all acted like petulant children.

I was a big cry baby!
(thanks to the imagery of Microsoft Clipart)

Now - it is AMAZING outside - crazy warm, in the upper 70's/low 80's. In the course of two weeks, it's gone from 32F to 80F. This is the Midwest, so the weather will change again. But in the meantime, I took my 'garden dreaming' outside to reality this weekend - to wander and work in the gardens. Sandhill Cranes migrated north this week: (click on any photo to enlarge it)

Those teeny-tiny dots really are Sandhill Cranes
(by the time I got my camera they were far away and much higher up)

Lots of plants in my garden were up out of the ground.

Variegated Ribbon Grass
(in 'Shade Garden")

My precious "PJM Rhododendron"
(looking optimistically healthy)

"Center Glow" Ninebark

Perennial Hollyhock
(just barely piercing the ground)

The brand new "May Breeze" Phlox, co-located with "Black Scallop" Ajuga
(The Phlox has an almost irridecent white-purple bloom)

Dappled Willow with a Vicary Golden Privet back drop

Budding Crabapple Tree

Then, I couldn't resist... I just had to start the garden "expansions". The "Cottage Garden" was too small 5 minutes after we finished it (that 'we' includes the generous labor contributions my husband provided). Due to heavy shading just adjacent to the Redtwig Dogwood, the grass has been dying off. A edger and 10 minutes later, I started creating a new shade garden area. More to come on that in future posts.

And so "The Expansion" begins ...
(Shade expansion in foreground; the "Cottage Garden" is in the background -excavations in progress)

It's been a euphoric week, and though I know there will be repercussions to the mild Winter and early warm weather - I'm enjoying it while we have it!

Have a fabulous week !!

© All content & photography by Shyrlene Foster at The Bunnies Buffet (unless noted)

What a Long Space Trip It's Been...

2012-03-08T21:48:00.000-06:00

My intentions are good, really. There are things I plan to post about. I take photos. Then the gull-wing doors come down on the DeLorean ... the 'flux-capacitor' whines out ... and I'm transported through time to a month ahead -- again. I know I'm dating myself with Grateful Dead phrasing and references to +25 year old movies, but I am feeling a bit "Twilight Zone-ish"!

Don't get me wrong; I've still been going nuts over gardening the last 4 weeks. Pinterest is feeding the frenzy, filling the brain with instant images of 'garden righteousness'. Maybe it's this goofy weather? We got walloped with snow a mere 2 weeks ago -- and then my heart stopped beating when I looked out my window and saw ....

PJM Rhododendron - laid out flat by heavy snows

This is my ongoing 'cage match' with Mother Nature -- I keep insisting I must have an Azalea or Rhododendron in my gardens. Mother Nature puts me in a headlock, and says "Nope, I don't think so Blondie!" This is Azalea/Rhodie plant #3 in my gardening "career", with hope - this is 'the charm'? Good ole "PJM" does have some chutzpah, though! After a snow melt a few days later, at least the branches were standing upright again. So there may be hope.

Plant #1, many moons ago ("Very Cherry" Azalea)

Plant #3 - 'the early days' of innocence
(Don't ask for #2 - apparently there is no photographic evidence there was one?)

PJM - the 'Gravy Years'

Ok, enough cry-baby whining. Here's a little 'window walk-about' after the snows 2 weeks ago. It really was pretty:

Vicary Golden Privet & 'Hakura Nishiki' Dappled Willow - under lock n key

The neighbor's "Little Miss Kim" Lilac, under thick snow cover.
(Hey, I look at this as part of my "extended" garden - beyond the border!)

An open invitation to rest and stay awhile - even if it's just a bit nippy.

And last but not least, the silent "Snow Sentry", waiting for Spring.

That was 2 weeks ago. The last two days it was in the mid-60's, but it was hard to tell with the 45 mph winds?! (Really, no joke.) I hear rumor that Day Lilies are up - but I'll have to take a walk this weekend to see what IS up? Next week will be a Spring teaser, with warmer temps. and less wind. But it is time to just sit on my hands (to stop the nervous twitch) and remember that the 'planting season' starts after Mother's Day.

Ode to Spring - 2012

Come on Spring!
©

OK, When Does It Become An Obsession?

2012-02-11T23:24:00.002-06:00

It started a couple of weeks ago, with the lull after the Holidays. I looked out the back windows at the snow covered gardens. It had beauty in it's simplicity - but the garden 'backdrop' of suburbia (egg crate backyards) kind of bugged me.

Like all the "Bunny" protection?!

Now I realize, this is the home and area we chose. It has been a wonderful place to be, and with the addition/renovation we did 4 years ago - we will be enjoying the upgrades for years to come. Maybe I have "garden envy" - of those that have mature and robust gardens?

Rolling fields behind a plethora of blooms ... deep sigh!
(thanks to the creative minds at Microsoft)

I read many garden blogs, and salivate when I see woodland gardens in Alabama, crafted landscaping in Wisconsin, organic farms in California, the majestic views in Colorado, hear sage advice in Maine or Ohio, see breath-taking photos in Belgium or New York, along with big things in Texas (yes, everything is big and beautiful in Texas). Then I travel around the globe to exotic, far-away places like Australia, Africa, Canada or Ireland and really get wistful.

(But then, I digress... because I could go on forever! P.S. Check out the many blogs I follow; there are so many gifted folks on the Blogosphere!))

So, between garden blogs, garden magazines and Pinterest - I have been losing my mind on 'next steps' in the garden in 2012. I've 'surfed', re-researched, down-loaded, tabbed pages, printed-out and finally, cut & pasted garden inspired ideas. Ultimately it took me back to my garden journal. I journaled for the last few days (why is spell-check telling me I can't use the word "journaled" - past tense of "journaling"). So, this is what 'a whole lot a crazy' looks like:

Bunnies' Buffet - 'Garden Central' 2012

Yes, that is a pair of scissors and scotch tape sitting next to my garden journal (deux). Yep, Post-its, too. I downloaded pictures of my "2012 Wishlist" plants for reference. A copy went in my "Garden" folder under "My Documents" on the computer - and another copy was printed out for the journal. (I'm a "visual" learner.) I also printed out photo copies of 2011 garden successes as well. Here are are few other shots, so the mystery of my mind & how it works might be revealed:

I L-O-V-E "Google Images" for quick reference photos
(personal use only, of course - not for reuse)

'Bunnies Buffet' Historical Reference - see it, read it, be one with it.

It's not just "cut & paste" here at 'Garden Central'.
There's sketching too ... ("Front Garden" concept sketches).

It does appear there may be a risk to all this printing, cutting and taping. The brand new (not so expensive) garden journal is already showing stress points. It will probably never close completely again:

"Composition Books" just don't hold up like they used to ?!?

So, I may not be the most sophisticated gardener, or garden blogger - but I sure get an adrenaline rush doing all of this. The more I look out the windows, the more I know the gardens will grow to encircle the front and back. I better check out the village ordinances on residential landscaping & start pricing bulk-purchase compost. More than ever, I aspire to sit in our backyard with a sense of serenity and sanctuary, thanks to the landscaping that surrounds me.

My question is ... is this type of activity, with it's current laser-beam focus on 2012 gardening, considered "healthy behavior" or has it become an obsession? It is "colorful" to say the least (I'm the girl that loved the "big" Crayola Box with the sharpener in the back!).

Never met one I didn't like ...
(Microsoft Clipart)

Pacem in paradiso...

© All content & photography by Shyrlene Foster at The Bunnies Buffet (unless noted)

Weekend Bliss in January - Planning for Spring!

2012-01-29T18:26:00.000-06:00

I 'skipped school' on Friday - needing to recharge my 'batteries' from the 30 day post-holiday work marathon.

Having fun... (woohoo!)
(from the creative minds at Microsoft Clip art!)

After finally getting my Garden Blogosphere 'mojo' back, I had been thinking about 2012 gardening. I pulled out my large stack of past issues of gardening magazines, especially Fine Gardening and Garden Gate. ... What was I missing? What was going to get me to 'the next level' of garden nirvana? What makes me want to be a 'grown up' gardener? ... BIGGER gardens and MORE plants!! ...

Autumn 2011 - The 'Cottage' Garden

Now, don't get me wrong. I love the progress I've made so far, but it feels 'slow'. Looking through a photo montage of 2011, the Spring photos in particular looked "rough" - to say the least. Bushes were small, dandelions were prolific and perennials were few and far between. As I looked month-over-month, there was hope. I had checked off quite a few 'wish list' plants off the list:

Amsonia Hubrichtii (Blue Star)

"May Breeze" Phlox divaricata

"New Wave" Lillium

"Petite Snow" Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii "Monite")

There was a little bit of a prevailing "white" bloom theme going on, but the trim of the house is white - and I like how the color reverberates around the gardens. Then again, there was the Bugbane ('Actaea Ramosa "Brunette"), the Bee Balm ("Marshall's Delight" Monarda) and the "Arabian Nights" Dahlia. Things weren't totally monotonous.

"Arabian Nights" Dahlia
(Bulbs are snugged up in the dry garage - waiting for 2012)

Perhaps, in the cold of January, my "eyes could be bigger than my garden 'might'" - but I really want more garden, more sanctuary and more visual privacy. My biggest recommendation to anyone that is starting from scratch -- you can never plant bushes and trees soon enough! (and they cannot grow fast enough) There is also no such thing as 'too many' plants - always, always, always buy a minimum of (3) of the same plants - more, if you can (in odd numbers of course, if you are going to co-locate them).

One of this year's projects - expand the front garden
(Sketches are in 'development'...)

First priority is to 'fill' the many large voids in the existing gardens with more perennials. As I surf your garden blogs, I admire the variety and the 'bounty' within your gardens. That is what I aspire to - mature, bountiful gardens with texture and variety. So - back to the drawing board, my handy-dandy garden journal (II) and visiting my garden blog friends.

(One happy note, looking back over previous years of photos - early March is when things start popping out of the ground. And THAT is not so far away!)

Pacem in paradiso...

© All content & photography by Shyrlene Foster at The Bunnies Buffet (unless noted)

Structure in a Midwest Winter Garden...

2012-01-16T21:43:00.001-06:00

Once again, I've slid off the grid. Holidays & such. One thing I did do that was 'garden-y', was to look out the windows at my dormant landscape - a lot. Sometimes it made me wistful, other times it made me peaceful. During our first "real" measurable snow fall recently (in January, which is unprecedented in the Midwest) , I also noticed the stark 'structure' within the gardens.

Pink Guara (dormant - January 2012)

With garden edges obscured and stone walkways covered, dormant plant structure became the visual interest. Organic sculptures - only not in a museum. I would have never before imagined it, but the views just struck me. Maybe because there is more 'vacant' space in the gardens since they are relatively new - but I wished for more to look at. (Note to self: need more plants - Spring 2012)

'Wine and Roses' Weigela - in the Winter Sunset 2012

Though there wasn't the vibrancy of the 'growing' months, this Winter 'garden' had quiet poise. There was a 'Zen' ambiance I could have looked at all afternoon. Believe me, it's a short trip around these gardens - plunked in the middle of suburbia. But I have seen amazing landscaping in small places, and that gives me motivation!

Sunset on the 'Shade Garden' - the rustle of the winter grass is riveting

So, while it was refreshing to reconnect with the 'winter shade' of gardening - I'm "ok" to have a few more fallow months before I get back into "garden mojo". (I am anxious to see last year's new perennials come up in 2012. Now I just have to add more - 'sweeps' of Anemones and Candy Tuft, a new 'Natives' garden in front, visual 'green' screening...) Until Spring 2012, I'm going to live vicariously through my garden blog friends. Slowly but surely, I am getting around for blog visits - and looking forward to see what you have been up to!

Namaste

Happy Holidays...

2011-12-31T16:21:00.000-06:00

Just a quick hop on the Blogosphere to wish all of you a peaceful & bountiful New Year!

All the best,
Shyrlene
©

Carpe Diem! ("Skip School" and enjoy...)

2011-11-05T19:20:00.000-05:00

Previously, before gardening (BG?), I never thought much about the Autumn season - other than the changing of the leaves. I certainly didn't get "up close and personal" or think of November as a month with a lot to look at. THAT is a lot of lifetime to be missing the views I captured yesterday, on a simply gorgeous Autumn day.

Sugar Maple in sunshine
- one of the last trees to shed leaves for the Winter

It actually started when I was out running errands, and stopped for a 'to go' coffee. As I pulled up to the store front, I immediately noticed the Autumn-themed landscaping in the sidewalk garden:

Note to self: add Dusty Miller (Centurea cineraria) to gardens next year

Even though the Garden Mums were starting to fade (it is November in the Midwest after all!), this garden looked so robust. As the bright colors of summer start to pale, the russet colors autumn are a warm & welcoming segue to the change of seasons. Once my errands were done, I took a 'San Antonio Stroll' around my gardens... it was an eye-opener.

November Images in the Garden at the Bunnies Buffet

Stole a quick photo of the neighbors' Burning Bush

The garden glider blanketed in late Autumn leaves...
(... and playing with the color saturation in Photo Studio)

Hollyhock - robust in November

The last of the Pink Guara

Sugar Maple with an Azure Sky backdrop

The last Double Pink Knockout Rose bloom...

The colors just blew me away. The fact that so many plants were still hanging in there was fantastic. And we will take all the sunny, 60-degree days we can get! There is still garden maintenance to be done, and yard art to be put away (while the ground isn't frozen) - so I am due for a 'power day' cleaning up. In the meantime, I will enjoy the last fading images of the 2011 garden season.

Sweet Potato Vine - paling in the sun

Weigela - with burnishing leaves in November

Sugar Maple in sunshine and shadows

I've missed being on the Blogosphere. Our 'shared' home PC has been dedicated to school use recently, but I'm getting a foothold back on the family 'schedule'. Looking forward to catching up on your blogs!! Happy gardening...

Passive / Aggressive Gardener?

2011-10-22T14:50:00.001-05:00

Weekends have become so precious. The Monday through Friday routine on Life's "Habitrail" feels faster and longer, but then that could just be me?

What a GREAT photo - on the technology "habitrail"
(from the creative minds at Microsoft clip art)

I look out the window today, on a cool crisp Autumn Saturday, and it makes me smile. The Arabian Nights Dahlia continues to bloom insanely, though the stems look more like abstract art? Winds and storms blow the plants to & fro, and then new growth points straight to the sun... (The stems are also very brittle, so 'note to self: plan a better support system next year'.)

That 'baby' Shepard's Hook doesn't stand a chance
(trying to hold the dahlia up)!

Now, my question is ... why is it one minute I want to conquer the world (in my gardens), then in the next minute I look disinterestedly out the window, denying the season clean-up work that needs to be done? Is that 'passive-aggressive'? Is that 'burnout' from work? ..or do I just need a few days off to recharge my batteries? (Never mind, I think I just answered my own question.)

In the meantime, I have been appreciating the Autumn foliage! My "$3" Garden Mums from Lowe's have come back for the 3rd season. Their snowy-white blooms look amazing with the Royal Purple Smoke Bush as a back drop. They also 'glow' in the night against the dark Autumn night.

Awesome contrast:
Royal Purple Smoke Bush back drop to the Snowy White Garden Mums

Up close and personal: talk about the best 'bang for your buck'

Other Autumn 'pleasers', included a recent trip to pumpkin farm, Sonny Acres. The entrance garden was fascinating:

Call me "Guppy" - I had to stop and check this out

Coolest plant in the garden!

And while the last of the season's blooms are out, some plants are throwing up a new growth, while others are done for the year - even without the 1st frost:

A snapshot in time ... 10/07/2011

As I toured around the gardens recently, I found a renegade Maple shoot changing colors (it was so cute I couldn't pull it). The Center Glow Ninebark is fully recovered from last year's powdery mildew, and 'dressing' colors for Autumn. The Cottage Garden is strategically placed near a Sunburst Locus tree, that showered all it's yellow leaves last weekend - they should mulch in the yard nicely. The early Spring riser, Crimson Pixie Asiatic Lily went dormant early. The new stone path in the Cottage Garden looks charming bathed in leaves, while the Dark Red Hollyhock/Malva continues to push a few new shoots. And finally, the last dinner-plate Rose Mallow bloom faced the setting sun, one last time...

I hope you aren't as conflicted as I have been about gardening. I look forward to visiting your gardens this weekend!

Peace in the Garden! ...

My Friends Continue to Inspire Me...

2011-09-28T00:37:00.001-05:00

Gardening is a facet of my life I never envisioned when I was younger; it was in my DNA but I was in D-nial! Now I'm up to my elbows in compost and mulch, and what is even more fun than being in the garden - is taking a stroll in a friend's garden. Today I would like to feature the treasures in my friend Lydia's gardens.

A little Autumn dressing

From the curb to the back corner garden, you are welcomed, both inside and out. This post will end up mostly being a photo montage, because sometimes "a picture really is worth a million words". Enjoy the virtual tour...

There are always seasonal updates...

I didn't fully appreciate the detail in Lydia's gardens until I bribed her into letting me take my camera on a 'walk-about' this Fall. Nothing says 'up close and personal' like a wide-angle zoom lens. I won't deny I am envious of her yard art collection, and if any of it 'happens' to disappear - I will flatly deny I was ever there.

Is this not a treasure trove ?? (That Sunflower has my name on it!)

Here are a few strategic views, before I get into the down-n-dirty detail. You have to see the "Big Picture" to appreciate the visual invitation to stay for a visit.

Autumn Color

Close up - on a Wistful Dreamer

A Little Corner of the World...

Serenity in a Crazy World

And unlike me, Lydia has a guard over her plants - with a sharp eye and a keen sense of smell. This big boy is always on the look out for the bunny brigade. There is always the 'ying and yang' of who has the upper edge - but I've heard his bark. It'll get your attention!

He looks like royalty assessing the kingdom

Continuing the tour... I may have to steal some of her Grasses too.

The Garden Angel that keeps peace n harmony in the backyard.

Now, the 'money shots'! I'm not really happy until I can get a macro shot of a bloom or two...

'Someone' (who will remain nameless) challenged me to get right up on this shot...
(double-click to zoom in to see why)

Check out this "Pollen-ator"

Note to self: put on 'Wishlist 2012'

Sweet Autumn Clematis

There was so much blooming and so many beautiful flowers around the yard. I took advantage of Picasa to make a collage of some of the tender views I was privy to. The nuances can be missed if you don't walk right up for a closer look (even - in my case - that you have to contort your body to get there).

Bold or subtle - they are not to be missed

And if there weren't enough blooms outside, why not make a statement inside as well! The photo below was the center piece on her dining room table. (She would have noticed if they 'disappeared'...) Lydia was more than generous to let me invade her home, gardens and play with the 'garden sentry'. I figure if I play it right, I might invite myself back in the Spring / Early Summer - when a whole different set of plants are in bloom!

"BAM!"

So, where have your toured lately? As the chill of Autumn is in the air - it might be time for a trip to the Arboretum... Hum!

I'm in Trouble! (Rhododendron trouble...)

2011-09-18T13:18:00.000-05:00

If there is sage advice I could give to new gardeners, never get too cocky about your garden skills! Just when I thought I had quite the 'garden mojo' going, my PJM Rhododendron has given me a reality check. Here is a shot I took yesterday, before my always-generous husband offered to water my gardens:

Quick snap shot - 09/17/11
(PJM Rhododendron)

Now first of all, for those of you not familiar with this cultivar of Rhododendron, this is an 'evergreen' of sorts. It never sheds its leaves. They turn a gorgeous shade of dark bronze during the winter months. I may be panicking for nothing -- but these yellowing leaves have me clutching my heart! As you can tell by the curled green leaves, it IS in need of water (they filled out happily after getting a thorough soaking later).

Can anyone with Azalea/'Rhodie' experience and expertise tell me if I've screwed up - with woeful neglect, unknowingly? As a quick synopsis of historical care so far: I purchased it April of last year - deliriously happy when bloomed riotously this Spring, it is planted in a protected (from North & West winter winds) corner by my 3-season room, I mulched it with a 2-3" layer of pine mulch (as is suggested), and watered it faithfully when there were dry spells.

My dear Rhodie - in happier days

You may think I am making a mountain out of a mole hill, but you see, there is unhappy history here. Illinois is probably not the most hospitable area for Azaleas & Rhododendrons (I envy NJ - where they grow like weeds), but 3 times I have tried to find/create a little corner of the world for this 'favorite'. I was hoping "3rd time was a charm".

Another place - another Azalea: that eventually met an untimely 'end'
(It was planted in that garden - not left in a pot)

I did a little research, and have learned that Azaleas/Rhododendrons have shallow roots - and often new plants with tight root balls require slow soaking to get established. If there are any other suggestions or recommendations you have - I would greatly appreciate your wisdom!

Big thanks Garden Blog experts! ...

Turn the Page ...

2011-09-06T20:27:00.002-05:00

The sun is setting notably earlier these days. I'm enraptured by the way blooms look in the early evening.

I have a better appreciation for Rudibeckia this year
(They have fleshed out in sweeps of late-season color)

I don't remember Labor Day weekend feeling so much like 'the pivot point for a seasonal change', but for some reason this year, it did. It could have to do with the fact that it was 96 degrees and humid Friday (09/02/11) and 67 degrees and breezy on Monday (09/05/11)??! I'm in a quarterback 'fall back' position on gardening right now. Taking a step back, walking around - looking at what has done well, what is getting established and what is struggling. And, timing is everything...

Camping out in my 3-Season room Labor Day weekend 2011

After 7 years of 'garden' journal-ling, my "Quad-rule Mead Composition Book" is full --- to the brim, if you look at it on the left. It's jammed with notes, sketches, plant tags, post-its - you name it (there were 'lean' years where not much was written). This weekend, I had to break down an buy a new one. I splurged! Instead of spending $0.99 on the traditional black variety, I bought a glossy-finished, cosmic-colored composition book for $2.00, though I did have to sacrifice the "quad-rule" for 'wide-rule'.

A peek at the "Sun Garden" through the window
(Pink Guara is bursting everywhere - LOVE this for a cottage-style garden)

So I've 'turned the page' - quite a few actually - in my new 'Garden Journal II'. I'm making notes for "Wishlist 2012". On the top of this list - more 'orange' perennials, to mix in with purple and pink - big, random splashes of color. Just because. More gardens in 'full sun'. Exploit the west side of the house - where there is +5 hours of sun. 'Blow out' the Cottage Garden to include larger patches of 'sunny' space. (Jim, at Jim & Pat's Gardening Adventure, suggested making the garden bigger from the start.)

"Sweet Autumn Clematis" in bloom recently

It's time to get 'the nerve' (like Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of Oz), and cut in more garden in the front yard - where it's sunny most of the day. I was thinking of making an island of just Illinois natives? Just a thought...

It's not the most crisp photo I've taken,
but I just love the slender grace of the Pink Guara bloom

In the new journal, I made a list of the plants I added to the gardens this year in 2011. It didn't seem like a bunch, until I looked back in review. I checked off a bunch of 'wishlist' plants: perennial Hollyhock (Alcea Mars Magic), Bluestar (Amsonia Hubruchtii), 'Morning Light' Maiden Grass, variegated Jacob's Ladder, Bugbane (Actaea ramosa "Brunette"), "Petite Snow" Butterfly Bush, Asiatic Lily (Lillium "New Wave"), Candytuft ('Snowflake') and Japanese Anemone (Anemone sylvestris). Spring / Summer 2012 will be an interesting 'growth' season - I'm anxious already!

Bounty from a farmers' market at a recent event
(My friend's keen sense of style & me with a camera...)

Next season, I have to make a note to appreciate local gardeners more. A friend of mine explores local farmers' markets frequently. Nothing says beauty like fresh cut flowers, but my gardens are small and I'm a bit selfish - wanting to see perennial blooms in the garden as long as possible. Farmers market, ho!

So now - it's on to Garden Mums, ~~Petunias~~ Pansies (Thanks for the correction, Lizz: Garden Mensa) and cleaning up the gardens for next Spring.

Mums & Petunias
(Orange & purple - bold n daring from one of my garden mensas!)

Hope your gardens are all the delight you imagine.. and more, as we turn the page to a new season.

Light 'Play' and Gentle Breezes

2011-08-14T11:42:00.001-05:00

I'm feeling 'garden-y' ((?) probably couldn't find that in Wikipedia) and Zen this morning. The heat & humidity broke today, so all the windows are open and there is an amazing breeze blowing through the house. Paging through a new issue of Garden Gate, as I sat in my 3-Season room I noticed the 'light play' on the plants in the "Shade Garden" from the morning sun.

Garden Blogger, Cat - The Whimsical Gardener has a keen eye for the art of the garden, through her photography. I look at my garden in a whole different way now - as a photo op and perhaps some personal artwork in my home. My favorite plant progress shots are taken at sunset (as a self-described NON-morning person, 'sunrise' shots will be few and far between). The other evening the Cottage Garden was bathed in sunset. Here are a few shots I was able to capture:

Sunset on the Sweet Autumn Clematis
(by my 'Budding Photographer)

'Morning Light' Maiden Grass and Perennial Hollyhock
(at Sunset)

Yellow Daylily Bloom in Sunset shadows

Arabian Nights Dahlia bloom
(Must plant more Dahlias next year!)

I'm entranced by the beauty of this garden in sunset!

So now that my 'anchor' gardens are in place and I have a sense of closure on what's done so far - I'm back in the garden plant books and pouring through garden magazines for the next phase of planning and planting. Many of you provided a great recommendations for my 'wishlist' in 2012 and there are a few plants I fell in love with (like Lavender) as I perused my favorite garden 'haunts'.

Borrowed from the creative talent at Microsoft Clipart

I have also had a chance to surf the Blogosphere a bit and catch up with many of your blogs. Summer has been 'spotty' for getting online, so I am incredibly behind. In my 'virtual' travels, I try to leave you a comment - so you know I've been by. It still blows me away how much talent is shared in this format. Recently Tufa Girl and Toni -Signature Gardens were doing separate whorl-wind driving tours (the real kind) and introduced me (and their readers) to Karen at Quarry Garden Stained Glass. Many of you may already know about this talent, but if you are new to the blog as I was - stop by! "Wow" doesn't even cover it.

Time to wrap up. It's a busy day in our house-hold as we pack up one of the "chitlins" (my kids) for another year at college. (Geez, I must have fallen into that 'space-time contium' again? Somehow school is starting up, which means Summer as quickly coming to an end...)

Since my post was all about gentle breezes and "light play", here is a little 'non-garden' shot to finish out this post:

Sunset at the Pier - Gulf Shores, FL

Sunshine wishes...

Thieves, Summer Storms and Sunshine

2011-08-07T21:28:00.000-05:00

Garden design at the 'Bunnies Buffet' has always included the thought process, "what does the garden look like from inside the house?" I like to think of the landscaping as a 'canvas' through the windows. Seasonal weather often keeps us inside - so the view looking out should make me smile?

Garden views from the window...

A few weeks ago I was looking out from the family room and notice a big 'gap' in the Cottage garden where there should be none. About a month ago I planted a full seed package of russet colored Sunflowers all along the back of the garden. My hopes were a "wall of Sunflowers" as a back drop! They had been flourishing - growing like crazy!! The last time I really saw them, they were at least 15 inches tall. Now - GONE. No crumbs, no footprints, no nothing - like they were never even planted?!! (I have my suspicions; there are some very satisfied looking bunnies cruising around the backyard - but they aren't talking.)

Crime scene: no plants, no remants, no incriminating foot prints ...
only the yard art that indicated the plant site

While the 'disappearing' sunflowers was a mystery, the leaning Arabian Nights Dahlias were not.

Leaning Dahlias ... from a wild thunderstorm

In spite of 'plant thieves' and storms, there has been major progress in the Cottage garden removing weeds and adding stepping stones. Here are a few shots of what's going on...

The "Bones" of the Cottage Garden

New this year:
Monarda ("Marshall's Delight"), Hollyhock and Maiden Grass

Arabian Nights Dahlia - raindrops in sunshine...

Hibiscus ("Fireball")

Hosta Fortunei

Hibiscus "Fireball" in bloom

Rudibeckia

Time to start investigating other late Summer bloomers. There seems to be a prevailing "red" & "yellow" trend at the Bunnies Buffet right now. Maybe "Sunset" Echinacea next year, for variety? Any thoughts or recommendations for Zone 5?

I wish you a break in the heat and a gentle summer rain for those that have suffered through the +30-day "Heat Domes" (who had even heard of such a thing before this year?)!

Weeds and All...

2011-07-21T22:55:00.000-05:00

Once again I've stepped out of the 2011 'Space - Time Continuum' - low & behold, it's July 21st. Like many areas of the US, it is hot (really, really hot) and dry outside, and I find it so interesting to see what is growing in this oppressive weather. I took another 'Tour De France" around the backyard to see what's going on...

"Arabian Nights" Dahlia - with a "Lemon Yellow" Daylily back drop...

Back in the 'Cottage Garden' there is actually some blooming going on! A new annual (started from seed I might add...) - "Arabian Nights" Dahlias are large and in charge. The (3) plants are about 3 feet tall and very sturdy, while the blooms are a bit diminutive & would fit in the palm of your hand. The perennial Lemon Yellow Daylily is hardy and looks amazing next to that dark scarlet red - a happy location accident.

"Sun Garden" in Sunset
(Pink Guara, "Wine & Roses" Weigela, Sedum, Moonbeam Coreopsis and Paprika Yarrow)

I am willing to show the 'not so pretty' side of gardening, as I let weeds remain co-located with my perennials. It is just too incredibly hot to pull weeds - and what the heck, they stay dark green in 'sauna hot' temps. So if you look close (or double-click on the picture above), you'll see 'weeds among us' in the gardens - but I'm just not going to get OCD about it. It's just ... too... hot!

Sedum Angelina, Pink Double-Knockout Rose, Sweet Autumn Clematis
Moonbeam Coreopsis, Fireball Hibiscus, Pink Guara and Rudibeckia

Many of the plants are putting on a 'pretty face' right now. One of my garden buddies 'gifted' me the Sedum Angelina last year. I put it in a terracotta pot this season - placed on a stand (aka upside down cube-shaped pot) for height and visual interest. Apparently it's quite happy, as it resembles a 'Chia Pet' now?! The Pink Knockout Rose is still recovering from 'bunny decimation' - and is happily blooming.

The Sweet Autumn Clematis continues its climb up the trellis - about 3 & 1/2 feet up. The Hibiscus is a riot of blooms. Those dinner plate-sized flowers are going to explode - like the plant itself, that has quadrupled in size this year (growing from a 1 stemmed plant to 4). I am going to have to add Pink Guara down in my 'Cottage Garden'. It has such awesome movement to it in the breeze - it just says 'cottage'. It is so much more hardy then the "Sweet Dreams" Coreopsis rosea - which currently looks so anemic I feel bad for it.

Variegated Ribbon Grass

As Greggo so aptly noted on a past post - I really like my "halo fade" effect for photos. In this case, it blurs the dandelions, so you can appreciate the Variegated Ribbon Grass and my little Sun chime. I really like this garden vignette - and the stepping stones and fence keep the Ribbon Grass corralled in a small area.

Stay cool! (I'll never complain about my shade trees ever again.)

I Slid Off the "Grid"...

2011-07-02T15:34:00.032-05:00

I'm quite sure I stepped into the 'Twilight Zone" or a "Space-Time Continuum"? How it got from June 11th to July 2nd in the blink of an eye is beyond me - but the fact remains, it is officially July.

The rain has backed off a bit, but the weeds continue to thrive. (Is there any climate they don't thrive??) I haven't taken 'full garden' pictures - because there hasn't been a time where there aren't weeds in one corner or another! (It's embarrassing to claim to be a 'gardener', while a big chunk of the landscape is riddled with the 'weed de jour'.) I was even temporarily disheartened by all the weeding I've been doing - only to look out the next week to ... more weeds. Then I found out you can burn 350 extra calories and hour - just weeding - and I was cool with the workout.

...In Training... for "Weed Slaying"!...
(Thanks to the imagery of Microsoft ClipArt)

In spite of it all, I do have some wonderful rewards - both blooms and more planted perennials:

Monarda didyma "Marshall's Delight" (Bee Balm)
3 perennial plants introduced to the 'Cottage Garden' this year

Hosta Fortunei flower bloom - either Albomarginata or Francee?

The Sunny Faces of Moonbeam Coreopsis
(there is no such thing as too many)

I love my 'Crimson Pixie' Asiatic Lily so much, when I found
this "New Wave" Asiatic Lily yesterday - it was a 'must have'.

Here's a quick "Nickel Tour" around the garden - via the latest photo collage:

Believe it or not - the Monarda didyma was taken in natural sunlight...

Perennials - established or new - are coming along well. It's interesting to see how 'leggy' new perennials are in their 1st year of growth in the garden - tall and lanky. I've been ghosting around a few of my favorite nurseries lately - both Platt Hill Nursery and The Growing Place - judiciously selecting 'wishlist' plants. I found the Amsonia (Blue Star) at Platt Hill - and was thrilled to see an established plant in their sample gardens. It's an amazing plant - highly recommended to anyone in it's favorite 'grow' zones. I treated myself to a Butterfly Bush too...

Blooming underway on the new Butterfly Bush

The "Morning Light" Maiden Grass is starting to stretch for the sun. I can't wait to see it at full height, especially knowing it's an Illinois native plant (now showcased in many nurseries). Platt Hill also treated me to the variegated Jacob's Ladder I've been looking for. Just yesterday I took a spontaneous run to The Growing Place (a 'must visit' nursery in north-eastern IL). I was delighted to find a true perennial Hollyhock - Alcea Mars ("Magic") Red for the 'Cottage Garden'. It is said to grow up to 6' tall - on sturdy stalks with silky dark red flowers mid-Summer. I love the leaf structure alone - much less the flowers to come.

Alcea Mars ("Magic") Red Hollyhock

Even the "Fireball" Hibiscus (Rose Mallow) is robust. The leaf structure on this one is so cool (I'm such a geek).

Rose Mallow ("Fireball" Hibiscus)

Sweet Autumn Clematis
(After weeks of rain ...finally planted and happily growing up a new trellis)

So, I'm back 'on the grid' again and looking forward to catching up on the Blogosphere. Happy Blooming...