Glorious Gloriosa Daisies

We had some light snow overnight but not much accumulation to deal with this morning. Despite the windchill around 0 degrees F today, it was sunny and the roads were in pretty good condition. As I go through my seed catalogs, I always am sure to order many varieties of gloriosa daisies (Rudbeckia hirta) and some of the hybrids as they offer brilliant color (see 'Toto Rustic' above) in the full sun garden and are relatively low maintenance. On occasion, I've seen these offered as perennials which will ultimately be a disappointment for gardeners in year two after purchase. We've grown tens of thousands of these over the years and in 2009, had a collection of over 60 varieties growing side by side. I've never seen these come back as perennials although on occasion, we see seedlings emerging. Grow them as an annual (purchase as seed or plants) and you wont regret their impact out in the full sun garden. Since the late 1950s, there have been many developments in varieties that offer interesting patterns, color shades and increasingly more maroon (see 'Cherry Brandy' at the bottom). Heights will range from 12" or so well up to 36" for the tallest of varieties. Thriving in full sun, gloriosa daisies (native to North America) will grow in a wide range of well-drained soils but don't appreciate heavy clay. They are wonderful for attracting butterflies and when planted en masse, can provide long-lasting, significant color. This blog just features a few of the many offerings that are out there.

I did some shoveling today and then shifted for more inside preparations (behind the desk) for next year. The Holiday Lights Show (HLS) is up and ready for the public opening this Friday, December 13th (4:30 pm - 9 pm). See www.rotarybotanicalgardens.org for more event dates and information. Dr. Gredler and Patrea were in for more painting and Pat M. stopped by this morning. Maury, Glenn and John J. came in for a meeting regarding our Spring Tree Sale which will be offered in conjunction with our Spring Plant Sale (May 9, 10, 11). More details to follow on those events. Maury also ran some errands and we saw Karen M., Joanne A., Bill O. and many others.