Spring in the Gardens; A True Juggling Act!

The cherries (Prunus) are in full bloom. The blooms above are a cluster on the purple leaf birdcherry (Prunus padus 'Colorata') located in the Scottish garden . The Schubert cherries (Prunus virginiana 'Schubert') are arching downwards with their fragrant white flower clusters. Unfortunately, plums and cherries have many problems and don't seem real long-lived in the garden. I'm certainly enjoying them right now regardless.

I'm embarassed to say that I didn't even set foot in the gardens proper today. I was at the Horticulture Center making handouts and signs for our upcoming plant sale (May 17). Jenny and Terry worked out in the gardens with Kay, Shirley and Dr. Gredler. It was a productive day and I just held down the fort. It' s interesting how many unexpected things happen during the day (hence the "juggling" reference in the title of this posting). Today there were many people stopping by for various reasons, new plants to tag, UPS delivery, phone calls, etc. That "roll with the punches" phrase is very applicable at the gardens; particularly on a Friday.

Keeping consistent with my promotion of foliage, this picture above of Rodger's flower (Rodgersia podophylla 'Rotlaub') in the shade garden (despite the sunny shot). The bronzy foliage emerges early and unfolds in to this tropical looking perennial (30"+ tall); however, it's totally hardy. There are many Rodgersias for the garden and they all will send out large creamy plumes in late spring/early summer reminiscent of a giant astilbe. I love Rodgersia for part shade as a textural plant. This is a good one for real bronze foliage. Variegated sweet iris (Iris pallida 'Albo-variegata') below. The blue blooms will come out in June and create even more interest.