It has rained heavily for 48 hours on and off which is good as the garden has had a good soaking and the water butts are full or even overflowing. However, it does mean there has been no gardening for me today. In fact all I managed outside was to water the greenhouse, which seems somewhat mad, when the rain is bashing on the glass, and to take a few photos as I like the softness rain brings to plants.
I am really pleased with the driveway border at the moment. Any one who has read this blog for some time will know my struggle to engage with the front garden and how I really tried to put some effort into it last year. My efforts are now paying off which is very satisfying and encouraging. The bright orange Tulip Ballerina have gone over and have been cut back. They are now followed by Alliums and Nectaroscordum which are actually holding their heads up this year, presumably due to the wet winter we have had. I am also enjoying the white potentilla which has come into its own after about 3 years of sulking.
Iris Bumblebee Deelite
I really like this Iris. It is a smaller flower than many of the other bearded irises, less blowsy and I think this helps it stand up to the weather. I think the veining on the falls is quite special possibly more butterfly like than bee like.
Buddleja salviifolia
Talking of butterflies the new buddleja has started to flower and the scent is quite intoxicating despite there only being two flowers at the moment. I am sure when it has had a chance to establish it will be stunning. I have planted it behind the new bench with the idea that you will be able to enjoy the scent whilst sitting in the garden. No sign of any butterflies yet but hopefully they will be attracted to it soon.
An unknown Aquilegia which must be self-sown as I never buy Aquilegias given they are so easy to grow from seed. I am sure this is a new appearance this year. It is quite tall and I like the way the flower head drops. It is also a simple flower very different from the normal complex Aquilegia flowers. I might collect the seeds on the off chance that they come true although with the number I have in the garden it is unlikely.
Arisaema speciosum
The Arisaema speciosum are flowering better than ever before and I was feeling rather pleased that I had relocated them to the old bog garden thinking the moisture was helping. However I heard recently that although they like humus rich soil they also like good drainage and not having their feet in the wet – opps. I may have to rethink.
Finally a Libertia, variety unknown, which is flowering its socks off in the front garden in the shelter of the laurel hedge.
Hopefully the weather will be drier tomorrow so I can get on and play.
