We are about to have a freeze tonight. The low in the morning will be 28 degrees F according to the forecast. We have had a lot of rain yesterday (2 inches). The temps are forecast to be in the upper 70’s next week and probably the next 10 days. I am feeling the need to seriously think about some hardy plants.
I did plant some sweet peas last week and I hope they survive the night temps. My onion transplants are standing straight and I am optimistic about them.
More and more green is beginning to appear but not a lot of blooms yet other than the daffodils. Next week should be one for more blooms.
First, here is an amaryllis well out of the ground. I cannot say what cultivar it may be since these are generally those we had for the holidays which I plant in the ground each spring.
Second, here is the colorful bark of a crape myrtle ‘Natchez’. It blooms white in the middle of spring but the winter bark color is the winner for me.
Third, this a noticeable frond of a Southern Shield Fern. These are well established now after 3 seasons and I expect a generous clump of them this year. They are deciduous but they do tolerate a fair amount of sun which is wonderful during the hot days of summer.
Fourth, this is Iris virginica. It just emerged last week and I am grateful. It will be a few weeks before it blooms. The common name is Blueflag Iris.
Fifth and final for today is an oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia. It is a hardy native perennial with the noticeable red bark in the winter. Those are my best for today.
Join Jim for Six on Saturday tomorrow here. Gardeners from around the world will be joining to update us on the latest in their gardens.
Until then, happy gardening!!
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