The big machines and work boots are through with their tromping and their bravado. The piles of seedling-smashing construction materials have disappeared - as each piece was gradually incorporated into the building of our home. And the drone of the mitre saws, compressors and sawzalls have fallen silent.
Now, it's my turn. A blank slate. A chance to take a crack at a small garden in this much-abused (and ignored) space. And an opportunity to inject a little femininity and estrogen into the landscape.
Favorite front-yard garden spaces have always been those with designs based in shrubs and small trees - to compliment the larger, more established trees and a smattering of perennials and bulbs.
My wish list is comprised of mostly native plants - trees, shrubs and woody vines that will offer color and interest throughout all of the seasons. And a few old-fashioned favorites because, well, gardens (for me) are also about nostalgia. Click on each highlighted plant for photos and details.
Shrubs and Trees
Fringe Tree (incredible fragrance in the spring)
Now, it's my turn. A blank slate. A chance to take a crack at a small garden in this much-abused (and ignored) space. And an opportunity to inject a little femininity and estrogen into the landscape.
Favorite front-yard garden spaces have always been those with designs based in shrubs and small trees - to compliment the larger, more established trees and a smattering of perennials and bulbs.My wish list is comprised of mostly native plants - trees, shrubs and woody vines that will offer color and interest throughout all of the seasons. And a few old-fashioned favorites because, well, gardens (for me) are also about nostalgia. Click on each highlighted plant for photos and details.
Shrubs and Trees
Fringe Tree (incredible fragrance in the spring)
Sweet Pepperbush (incredible fragrance in the summer)
Witchhazel (winter interest)
Piedmont Azalea (a much more delicate version of the typical azaleas)
Roses (but not the fussy varieties)
Quince
Glossy Abelia
Quince
Glossy Abelia
Peonies
Vines
If we get three of these plants in the ground this fall, I'll be thrilled. Okay, two. One?! Meh. I know better - it may not happen until next spring. Or the following fall.
But I'll always have the delicious anticipation associated with blank slates. New beginnings. And big plans.
But I'll always have the delicious anticipation associated with blank slates. New beginnings. And big plans.
6 comments:
Ah, what is more delightful to anticipate than planting a "blank slate"? Your plant list looks great. I love fringe tree and wish it grew more readily here.
I hope you will get 2 or 3 things in the ground this fall so we can see how it's taking shape.
Your house is great. It's like a New England farmhouse with a modern twist.
Don't forget native bulbs!
Here are some that I especially like:
Nodding Onion
Yellow Star Grass
Wild hyacinth, Camassia Scilloides
Blue Eyed Grass
Iris Cristata
Iris Verna
Dutchmans' Breeches
Trout Lily
Spring Beauty
Also remember to put that Carolina Jessamine in a sheltered location, or burlap it. It is technically only hardy to 7b.
I cannot wait to see what you do?
Your house is adorable. I love the red and white.
Hmm. Yes. So that was supposed to be an exclamation point there. NOT a question mark.
(Giggle) A question mark is totally appropriate - as the possibility of this happening is the biggest question mark of all!
I do hope to get a few things in the ground *soon*. Truly excited about cooler weather, nursery visits, progress!
Will certainly keep you all updated . . .
Post a Comment