Alpines in Troughs...

Container plantings, especially troughs (molded containers made of peat, sand and cement, see photo) are another way of deterring the deerly beloved. The alpines, are the plants that grow above the timber line and have adapted to the cold, harsh conditions. Like the trees in higher elevations they too are small. Many Nurseries and Garden Centers now sell potted alpines, in many varieties. They resemble tiny jewels in the trough containers. Perhaps because of their size the deer don't notice them. My rock garden is adorned with alpines too. A favorite is Corydalis lutea which puts forth a yellow bloom in May and continues to bloom until the first frost in October. Another favorite Lewisia cotyedon (see photo) is named after Lewis of Lewis and Clark fame. Lewisia is a jewel that does well in the trough, in a gritty soil mixture of coarse sand, chick grit, and perlite. The North American Rocks Garden Society offers seeds to its members and the website is invaluable for learning about rock gardens and trough planting.

She's Back...

The Philadelphia Flower Show was magnificent!!! As we walked through the doors and a riot of color, fragrant, sound, and sights assaulted the senses, our tired, weary worn, winter tired bodies were instantly renewed. We wanted to sing, shout and photograph every delightful flower, vignette, and scene within the show. This years' theme was Italy and every major city was represented in floral majesty. Rome with its marvelous columns, fountains, and statues. Milan, the fashion center, was a floral vogue of dresses, shoes, purses, and hats made of flowers or plant materials.
Viewing vignettes of villages, a plethora of horticulture and multitude of Nursery and Garden vendors within the acres and acres of the Philly Flower show, we sun deprived Northerners, rejuvenated and renewed our gardener souls. Now I am downloading and manipulating the more than a 1000 photos into a CD, for friends.
Tomorrow, information about some of the plants and gardening ideas learned at the show.