The Clutches of Spring

    Summer is here, but many of us are still locked in the clutches of spring.  Why?  Because the remnants of the swell garden party that was the spring growing season are still with us.  Think of all the flashy “guests” at that party—roses, clematis, peonies and iris of all sorts.  They thrilled us all, … Read more

Dwarf Iris

Long ago I heard an old recording of Marlene Dietrich, early twentieth century German chanteuse and style icon, singing one of her signature ballads.  The words go, “Falling in love again, in love again. Falling in love again, can’t help it.” I know the feeling.  On my recent vacation a dwarf bearded iris caught my … Read more

Garden Gifts

A good friend who is selling his property just gave me a large peony root from his garden.  The peony, which was billed as a white, single-flowered variety, bloomed last year, producing semi-double blossoms.  I dug a shallow, wide hole for the newcomer, as peonies resent being planted too deep.  Adding in a good helping … Read more