Drizzly But Productive

We thought we'd only have a morning drizzle but that drizzle continued throughout much of the day and really wasn't unwelcome (although consistent!) While this precipitation spared us most watering duties, it allowed us to accomplish much outside in our rain coats. Above is the vivid foliage of the tricolor European beech (Fagus sylvatica 'Roseo-Marginata') which is simply beautiful this time of year. The pink variegation remains throughout the season but fades to a light pink with the summer heat. Our grounds crew kept busy and we did see some visitors out in the gardens including participants of our very popular Story & Stroll program. Terry worked on repotting water lilies (Nymphaea sp.) and later, he and Big John installed them out in the koi pond (see further below) and in other water features. This was no small feat and the boys had their exercise. Big John also went mobile and picked up plants, hauled out cannas for planting and had some other smaller tasks..as did Terry. Pat hauled, staged and organized plants in our yard, did some pruning, shrub planting and other duties. Cindy did some indoor work this morning and shifted outside for some container planting in the French formal garden. Cheryl spent time tidying an area that certainly benefitted from her attention. She also did some indoor work and helped unload our incoming plants. I actually did some planting today, hauled out plants and caught up on various tasks as well. Below are some additional shots from today.

'Black Sprite' perennial bachelor's button (Centaurea montana)

Above are our Adirondack chairs in the North point garden (damp but colorful!). Come see the 25 unique Adirondack chairs that were "interpreted" by area artists and are located around the gardens!

We did see some volunteers today. Above is Stan doing some pruning this afternoon. Dr. Gredler came in for some mowing and Maury ran some errands for us. Patrea continued printing out plant labels for the Thomas Jefferson Collection which are looking beautiful. Marv B. and Jumbo Jim had some projects this morning and Dr. Yahr stopped by for a visit. Janice worked with Dawn, Jordan and Victoria who were here to help as our Chestnut House volunteers. We also saw Dick H. and some others today. More plant photos further below from today!