Donald's Organic Texas Garden

01/22/12

2012-01-22T16:52:00.000-06:00

Nanocactus scopa

This fun little cactus appears to be covered in little cat whiskers. The first thing that grabbed my attention, about it was its pure white color. I've nicknamed it 'Snow Kitty.'

01/21/12

2012-01-21T15:47:00.002-06:00

New Year's in Austin and the Hill Country of Texas

I spent New Year's Eve in Austin. The fireworks downtown were amazing! Even more exciting was a quaint little hidden lake in the Hill Country. I love seeing what nature does without the hand of man. Just as their is a different and more profound beauty in an aged person than in a youthful one, the same holds true with the plants growing and dying on our soil. The gnarled roots and broken bark of the trees help record their history. You can almost visualize the rains, snowstorms, and violent winds that brought them to this place. Even after death, their decay becomes more and more beautiful. It would probably do all of us good to remember that aging is far from ugly. Nature, if our eyes are open, gives us endless lessons to be learned.

01/18/12

2012-01-18T19:55:00.000-06:00

Echinocereus pectinatus rubispinus

This Echinocereus is new to my collection of cacti and succulents. Pretty spectacular! It will produce a beautiful hot pink flower but it really doesn't need to, for me to be blown away by its beauty. This baby begs to be looked at up close and so far the little spider like spines haven't bitten.

12/25/11

2011-12-25T00:00:00.000-06:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS to one and all!

I'm having Christmas at a very good friend's this year. I made a bouquet, to take, from flowers I bought at the super market. For some reason, it needed more Chriszazz, so I wandered outside to see if I had anything in the garden I could add. I found Artemesia Limelight, Golden Variegated Salvia, and Abelia Kaleidoscope. These plants added just enough sparkle to make me happy. This is proof that a garden in winter can still be a cutting garden. In Texas, that is!

11/23/11

2011-11-23T22:44:00.004-06:00

Colorado National Monument

My brother (photo above) and I spent the day at Colorado National Monument. I'm not going to try to describe it! It is awe inspiring.

11/21/11

2011-11-21T22:21:00.003-06:00

I took these images today in the yard of my

brother and sister-in-law. It is truly fall here in Colorado, unlike Central Texas, where the weather has confused all the trees and plants. I love the architecture of these trees against the sky.

11/17/11

2011-11-17T14:32:00.001-06:00

Euphorbia ' '

I started growing this Euphorbia last year. It's more than doubled in size. I can't remember which species it is so for now I'll call it Euphoriba 'growsandgrowsandgrowseinsis.'

11/16/11

2011-11-16T13:54:00.000-06:00

Inland Sea Oats

I usually clip the seed heads of my Inland Sea Oats when they are still green. This year I've let them go to seed. I'm enjoying seeing the pretty tan color on them. I'll pay for it, however, next spring when new little blades of grass will be popping up everywhere. Guess I'll be on all fours plucking them out one by one! One of those 'keeps me outta trouble' things!

11/15/11

2011-11-15T16:21:00.000-06:00

Zinnia elegans 'Benary's Giant Lime' and 'Super Yoga Rose'

Another Zinnia bouquet!

I may sew only these two Zinnias next year. I particularly like the combination. Naw --- I love the other colors too much!

I gave these to my great friend Candy.

I ordered the seeds from Select Seeds. Their seeds never fail!

11/14/11

2011-11-14T15:39:00.001-06:00

Zinnia elegans

I readthat Zinnia was given the flower of the year for 2011 by the National Garden Bureau, and decided to grow some. Little did I know that it would turn out to be the hottest anddriest summer on record for Texas, so of course, I had very little blooms orbuds. I religiously watered beyond my comfort level determined to keep themalive so that I would have flowers in the fall. I'm not sure if the price I hadto pay both financially and environmentally was worth it, but I sure amenjoying their autumn blooms.

11/13/11

2011-11-13T00:20:00.001-06:00

I let this bed grow like a wildflower meadow. All the annuals in it come back from seed every year. I let them grow where they may. The purple flowers are Gomprhena globosa. The spots of red here and there are two different plants, Emilia javanica in the background in the top left corner and Saliva coccinea in the foreground. The bush on the far left foreground is a miniature pomegranate.

11/12/11

2011-11-12T00:34:00.001-06:00

One by one the potted succulents are moving in for the winter. Before they go in, I like to clean them up a little. These are some of the small pots that have just been groomed.

11/11/11

2011-11-11T13:28:00.001-06:00

Purple Fountain Grass and Pink Muhly Grass

If you grow grasses, you know that after a few years they tend to hollow out in the center. When this happens, the correct thing to do is divide. I also saw an article that said to use a drill in the soil and new grass will grow. I tried that with my Pink Muhly Grass Muhlengergia capillaris and it didn't work. I was too lazy to divide it this year so instead, I planted a Purple Fountain Grass Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum' in the hole. Sometimes you just have to break the rules!

11/9/11

2011-11-09T09:33:00.000-06:00

Fall Bouquet from the garden

11/8/11

2011-11-08T12:07:00.001-06:00

Sweet Pea Rose

I love this little rose. She goes to mauve when the cooler weather arrives. No wonder, since she is a seedling of the rose named Lavender Pink Parfait.

11/7/11

2011-11-07T16:23:00.000-06:00

The third incarnation of the TRAVELING LOUNGER! Who knows what color and where it will be next year!

Photos of the first incarnation and the second.

11/4/11

2011-11-04T21:16:00.000-05:00

Salvia greggii Teresa and Pink Preference

11/2/11

2011-11-02T14:40:00.000-05:00

Lindheimer's muhly

07/23/11

2011-07-23T21:24:00.000-05:00

Birthday Bouquet

My good friend Debbie surprised me with this beautiful Rose bouquet, this past Thursday, for my birthday. It's beautiful, don't you think?

Thank-you Debbie!

07/08/11

2011-07-08T12:54:00.000-05:00

Cape Plumbago (Plumbago auriculata) and Old Fashioned Petunia (Petunia hybrida)

When the weather hits 106 in Texas as it is supposed to today, everyone runs for cover indoors. Me, I'll be out in the heat watering. If I get too hot, I can always run over to my potted Cape Plumbago. Looking at the icy blue blooms is like taking a drink of cool, cool water. It most definitely won't take the place of H20, but it'll do, until I can get some. An old fashioned climbing petunia grows in a pot beside the Plumbago. It's fiery hot purple blooms just make the cool blue look even cooler.

07/07/11

2011-07-07T11:31:00.000-05:00

Flame Acanthus (Anisacanthus quadrifidus var. wrightii Pumpkin and Red)

This is a plant native to Texas. The flowers are either light orange (Pumpkin) or deep red-orange (Red.) I started mine from some seeds someone gave me. Each year I have more because they re-seed with abandon. It's pretty clear why they have been given the common name Flame Acanthus. 'Don't call the Fire Department - it's just my Anisacanthus!'

07/06/11

2011-07-06T11:04:00.000-05:00

Texas Sage (Leucophyllum frutescens) etc.

With only 10 percent chance of rain in the forecast, all my neighbors thought I was mental when I said 'it's going to rain.' They all thought I was gifted when it did. How did I know? My Texas Sages were in full bloom. When Leucophyllum frutescens is in bloom, you may recall as I showed from an earlier post, you can almost be sure, here in Texas, it will rain.

07/5/11 TUESDAY ENSEMBLE

2011-07-05T14:08:00.000-05:00

Cosmos sulphureus, Liatris spicata Kobold, Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) Sacramento

This trio laughs at the heat of summer!

06/29/11

2011-06-29T09:51:00.001-05:00

Adenium obesum, Echeveria Frilly, and Abelia Kaleidoscope

I have a Desert Rose (Adenium obesum) in a pot with a bunch of succulents. It happens to bloom each year when the foliage of the succulent Echeveria, from sitting in the sun all day, has pink edges . A nearby green and chartreuse Abelia, in another pot, contrasts nicely with the hot pink and white flowers.

06/21/11

2011-06-21T16:29:00.000-05:00

Happy first day of Summer!

I've been very busy lately, but will be posting soon!

Just wanted to wish everyone a great day on this first day of Summer in the year 2011!

05/29/11

2011-05-29T15:39:00.001-05:00

Daylily 'Crimson Pirate'

If you're looking for a Daylily that isn't shy, this is the Daylily for you. Pirates are all the rage right now, thanks to Hollywood. When 'Crimson Pirate' is in bloom he's the main character in my garden. How could you ignore him! To put it in Pirate talk: Ahoy, me Hearties! Avast ye - tis Dayliler will blow yer down!

05/28/11

2011-05-28T22:20:00.000-05:00

Daylily 'Joan Senior'

This is one of those Daylilies that takes your breath away. At night, she glows in my backyard garden! She also has a delicious scent.

5/26/11 DALLAS OPEN DAYS pt.V

2011-05-26T23:55:00.005-05:00

And here we are are at the last garden of the tour. The eclectic mix in this garden made for a fun way to end the day. OPEN DAYS described it this way:

Blue Lotus Gardens offers landscape concepts and unique plant material. The garden offers a rare approach to drought tolerant gardening which includes a rain water catchment system. The front garden is consumed with large five-foot specimen agaves and various sizes of cactus and yuccas. The garden emanates a great west Texas feel. The front landscape also includes a disappearing fountain that attracts many Texas native wild birds. As you approach the back garden the atmosphere becomes eclectic with vintage and modern touches. Nestled within is a quaint iron bed and a long modern hedge of the Holy Fire lotus flowers. The garden also includes honey bee hives and stucco turtle sanctuary.

And so this concludes the photographs for the 2011 OPEN DAYS in Dallas. I hope I was able to capture some of the magnificence.

I can't wait for the Fort Worth OPEN DAYS coming in October!

05/25/11 DALLAS OPEN DAYS pt.IV

2011-05-25T22:19:00.000-05:00

Our fourth excursion led us to this graceful garden. OPEN DAYS described it this way

An unused backyard pool was filled in and replaced by a koi pond with multiple rills and streams. An intimate fireplace patio and tumbling waterways along changes in elevation create separate rooms with hidden walkways awaiting discovery. Beautiful gates add substance and mystery to the lushly planted entries. Successive waves of perennials enliven the seasons and feed the bees who live in two hives near the rear fence

Tomorrow brings us to our final destination. You don't want to miss this fun and eclectic garden!

05/25/11 DALLAS OPEN DAYS pt. III

2011-05-25T22:02:00.000-05:00

The third garden on our tour was a visual treat for sure. The OPEN DAYS brochure said this about the garden:

Hidden away in the middle of the city, this garden feels like it is almost anywhere but Dallas. After completing an addition to the original 1926 Tudor-style cottage, the passionate gardeners were able to purchase the lot next door. Landscape architect Susi Thompson worked closely with them to expand the garden and add two decorative and very useful buildings, the carriage house, which contains a garage, storage, and a work space; and the garden pavilion, a conservatory which houses their gardening library, a small kitchen, and a space for entertaining. The styles of the English-inspired garden and of the garden architecture, in particular the Arts-and-Crafts-style pavilion, are intended to complement each other as a unified whole. The three separate structures ensconce the garden into an intimate enclosure. The framework of the garden is very formal, with strong axial relationships between the architectural elements and a series of distinct garden rooms. However, exuberant planting softens the lines and adds texture, color, and interest at every turn, for this is a plant-lover’s garden. The hard scape elements are a rich mix of brick, cast stone, and natural stone both roughly squared and intricately cut to create formal medallions. In less than one third of an acre, you will find a sunken lawn, a pergola garden, an Italianate folly, outdoor fireplace, dining terrace, a perennial border, and four water features. Although the garden is English in style, Texas native and adapted plants play a large role in this small landscape. The owners do all the planting and organic maintenance themselves.

05/24/11 DALLAS OPEN DAYS pt. II

2011-05-24T18:37:00.006-05:00

This is the second garden we saw on our tour. Here is how the OPEN DAYS brochure described this charming garden:

This garden, owned by a horticulturist and garden contractor, features a variety of plants. The organized chaos of the plantings is anchored by the structure of boxwood hedges. The front garden has both shade and sun areas and is planted to accommodate these different exposures while trying to maintain balance. The backyard is designed for outdoor living. The back garden appears much larger through the implementation of the “garden rooms” concept. There are rooms for entertaining and outdoor dining, relaxing, quiet areas to read or sit by the fountain, enjoy time by the fire, grow vegetables, and even a space for a flock of backyard chickens.

Hope you enjoyed these photos at least half as much as I enjoyed touring the garden.

Tomorrow I'll post the third garden on our tour. A wonderful garden by landscape architect Susi Thompson surrounding a Tudor style cottage.

05/23/11 DALLAS OPEN DAYS pt. I

2011-05-23T22:16:00.005-05:00

Over the next few days, I will be posting photos from the 2011 Garden Conservancy's Open Days, Dallas Tour that happened this past Saturday, May the 21st. I was lucky enough to be able to view all five of the spectacular gardens. They ranged from elegant to funky. This first one definitely falls under the 'elegant' category. Here is how the Open Days brochure described this breath taking garden:

Carved into the north-facing incline in the historic Kessler Park area of Dallas, this 1920s terraced garden was clearly the original vision of a family who loved gardens and outdoor entertaining. In that spirit, it has been an eleven-year restorative, work-in-progress, hands-on, learn-as-you-go process for the current owners. The owners have worked to faithfully add elements such as walls, ponds and fountains that might have been evident eighty-five years earlier, and worked hard to restore stone terraces, staircases, and pathways that lead visitors to room after room of outdoor living. The plant palette is focused on materials that contribute to the design aesthetic, but is sensitive to the sometimes brutal summers of the north Texas locale. A literal mile of clipped hedges of Texas-tough dwarf yaupon provide the structure expected within a garden of this vernacular, and the plants within are allowed to “do their own thing.” Numerous variety of salvia, Texas Earth Kind® roses, cold-tolerant olives, and palms live in concert with the one non-Texas weather-friendly feature—the hydrangea. A small collection gathered from numerous trips to places where they thrive, the owners have tucked them into areas where the micro-climate helps them survive and planted them en masse. The early spring show can stop traffic and often does.

My WONDERFUL friends Casey and Trevor who took the tour with me.

I learned from one of the volunteers that the two guys who own this garden do most of the work themselves. I'm impressed!!!

Tomorrow I'll be posting photos from a small but wonderful garden owned by a horticulturist and garden contractor. Stay Tuned!

05/19/11

2011-05-19T23:47:00.000-05:00

Mexican Oregano (Lippia graveolens)

Mexican Oregano is one of my favorite Texas native plants. It blooms non-stop throughout the season. Mine is growing in a bed with orange Coneflowers and a miniature Crepe Myrtle. Not only is the plant a beauty but it has a pleasant scent as well.

05/15/11 MAY DREAM GARDENS 'BLOOM DAY'

2011-05-15T02:28:00.000-05:00

CLICK PHOTOS TO ENLARGE

Here's what is blooming in my front yard garden. Photos were taken 5/14/11.

Click here to see more MAY DREAM GARDENS

05/11/11

2011-05-11T21:23:00.000-05:00

Scabiosa and Poppy seed heads on mini chandelier

Is it art? I don't know! If I decide that it is, I'll let you know!

I chose to be a little creative with how I hung my Scabiosa seed heads out to dry. I attached them to a mini chandelier that I have. To top it off, I added the Poppy heads to the top. It's a little strange, but I kind of like it. It won't last forever so maybe I'll call it performance art.

You'll have to turn your head to the side to watch this, because I gave up trying to change the view to portrait! Oh and btw - ignore the bright colors of the cabinets. Those are about to painted!

5/10/11 TUESDAY ENSEMBLE

2011-05-10T11:06:00.002-05:00

Salvia farinacea Henry Duelberg, Cosmos sulphureus, Hesperaloe parviflora Red Yucca, and Leucophyllum frutescens Texas Sage.

4/27/11

2011-04-27T10:26:00.001-05:00

Potted plants

I finally finished my brick patio. The most exciting part was being able to arrange my potted plants here and there. This photo shows part of my collection. I've gotten a little crazy, so I have pockets like this throughout the garden. I'm hoping not to cover my patio completely!

04/26/11 TUESDAY ENSEMBLE

2011-04-26T10:31:00.000-05:00

Cinco de Mayo Rose, Larkspur, and Yarrow

I'm resurrecting my Tuesday Ensemble posts. As with the others, I will not be adding much more than the names of three or more plants included. Hope you enjoy!

04/25/11

2011-04-25T16:19:00.000-05:00

Iris germanica 'Gypsy Romance'

The Iris are still performing. This one opened up today. The name 'Gypsy Romance' conjures up images of deep and lush hues. Her colors go from deep violets that move into deep purples and then into dark blues and finally into golden yellows. I'm guessing this progression is how she got her name!

04/22/11

2011-04-22T10:01:00.000-05:00

The Fairy Rose and Clematis

I planted this Clematis with my climbing The Fairy Rose hopeing it would bloom along with the roses. What I didn't realize is that the blooms on this Clematis are early and the blooms on The Fairy are late. This is a rare moment when the two are blooming together. The Fairy has just begun to bloom and there is only this one bloom on the clematis, as all the others have turned into puffs of seeds. I may end up moving her to my Peggy Martin rose which has a similar bloom to The Fairy but blooms at the same time. By the way, I can't remember which Clematis this is.

04/21/11

2011-04-21T10:13:00.001-05:00

Iris germanica 'Midnight Oil'

I've just begun to be fascinated with 'black' flowers. In most cases the flowers are not black but dark enough to make you think they are.

Iris 'Midnight Oil' is a deep deep shade that at first sight appears black. The buds, look to me, to really be black. The open flowers however reveal a glorious mix of deep shades of purples and maroons. Midnight never looked so good!

04/20/11

2011-04-20T14:26:00.001-05:00

Graham Thomas Rose

I own only one English Rose, so far and his name is Graham Thomas. I can only describe his blooms as elegant and refined. A true gentleman!

04/19/11

2011-04-19T21:39:00.000-05:00

Maggie Rose

Peggy Martin Rose

Cinco de Mayo Rose

Winnipeg Parks Rose

Maggie Rose

I love pink and red roses. These roses fall somewhere between hot pink and red.

04/15/11 May Dream Gardens 'Bloom Day'

2011-04-15T09:55:00.001-05:00

Poppy somniferum

Poppy somniferum

Clematis 'Warsaw Nike'

Yarrow 'Summer Berries'

Yarrow 'Paprika'

Yarrow and Roses

Scabiosa 'Butterfly Blue'

Nasturtium 'Princess of Inda'

Salvia 'Victoria'

Each month over at May Dreams Gardens they host a 'Bloom Day' on the 15th of each month. This is my first posting. I hope to do this each month.

Go to Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day - April 2011 to see all the wonderful blogs!

04/14/11

2011-04-14T13:00:00.001-05:00

Iris germanica 'Well Endowed'

This is one of my new Iris. It stands inches above the rest. I wonder how many inches!

btw- I did not make up the name!

04/11/11

2011-04-11T12:04:00.000-05:00

Iris germanica 'Stellar Lights'

This is one galactic beauty!

04/11/11

2011-04-11T09:21:00.000-05:00

Iris germanica 'Drama Queen'

Every garden needs a little drama!

04/08/11

2011-04-08T11:00:00.001-05:00

Rose 'Pink Home Run'

I love single roses. They have the charm of Daisies with the complexity of Roses. When I saw that the Rose 'Home Run' had a mutant sister, I knew I had to add her to my garden. The original 'Home Run' is a fine Rose indeed. It blooms non stop and the color is an intense red that can't be photographed. 'Pink Home Run' has almost the same punch but with a lighter touch. I'm proud to have these siblings in my family of roses.

04/07/11

2011-04-07T16:45:00.002-05:00

Heuchera 'Pistache'

Coral Bells (Heuchera) 'Pistache' glows like neon in the garden. I have two that sit in the 'Love and Marriage' sector of my backyard. I usually plant in odd numbers but decided to enhance that area with a union of two. They are small in size but huge in impact. You can see them glowing from way across the garden. In the fall, they turn russet and orange. They are quite the pair!

04/06/11

2011-04-06T22:54:00.001-05:00

Iris germanica 'Clown Around'

I got several new Iris last year. This is the first one to bloom. Someone got it right when they named her 'Clown Around.' The colors remind me of the circus. This Iris isn't the 'greatest show on earth' but it's close!

04/05/11

2011-04-05T12:53:00.000-05:00

Crepe Myrtle 'Sacramento'

I was almost, if not more, thrilled to see the new spring foliage of my miniature Crepe Myrtle 'Sacramento' as I was to see the spring flowers. I had started to think that it hadn't survived our record making late winter freeze. When if finally started to show signs of life, I was exceedingly happy! The foliage in the spring is quite beautiful with rusts and chartreuse colorings. When it starts to bloom however, watch out! It blooms non-stop through out the season. As the fall approaches, it turns beautiful russet colors. Through the winter you can see the pleasing architecture of the branches. It has something to offer all four seasons.

04/01/11

2011-04-01T10:48:00.000-05:00

Iris germanica

The first Iris was sold at a hardware store as 'Color Tart.' It doesn't seem to match what I see around with the same name, so I am assuming it was labeled incorrectly. Whatever it is, I love it! I named The second Iris 'Debbie's Gift,' after the friend who gave it to me. I love its subtle yellow markings.

03/31/11

2011-03-31T11:18:00.001-05:00

Arugula (Eruca sativa)

My Arugula has decided to bolt. I'm not surprised, since our spring has mostly been like an early summer. I grow Arugula to eat, not as an ornamental. These delicate little flowers are making me re-think its purpose!

03/30/11

2011-03-30T10:02:00.000-05:00

Bougainvillea 'Orange King'

I just added a new Bougainvillea to what I call my 'Boogie Collection.' I have found that of all the tropicals I overwinter, Bougainvillea is the most reliable. In fact, much of the winter they are blooming in the house. When I saw this 'Boogie' I couldn't pass him up. I think every garden needs a King and an orange one - even better!

03/28/11

2011-03-29T16:34:00.000-05:00

Iris germanica 'Prissy Miss'

I bought the rhizome for 'Prissy Miss' at the hardware store nine or ten years ago. She has been my best performing Iris. She multiplies rapidly so I'm able to pass her around to friends almost every year. She is also the iris that gets the most comments from people. She has just started to bloom so her display is about to begin. Step right up to see the show. And friends, let me tell you, there ain't nothing prissy about this miss!

3/23/11

2011-03-23T19:44:00.000-05:00

Clematis 'Warsaw Nike' and Ajuga reptans

The first bloom of my Clematis 'Warsaw Nike' was just too beautiful not to bring indoors. I decided before I took her in to snap a photo of her near the Ajuga that grows at her feet. The blue flowers of the Ajuga help show off the richness of Warsaw Nike's color. I love that both plants bloom at the same time each year.

3/21/11

2011-03-21T18:33:00.000-05:00

Bulbine frutescens

This beauty is a new addition to my potted plant collection. I love the intricate little blooms that look like shooting stars. I also like the succulent grass like foliage. It isn't hardy in my 7b/8a zone so I'll be taking it in for protection in the winter. I think it will be worth the effort.

03/20/11 First Day of Spring

2011-03-20T18:45:00.000-05:00

unknown Rose

We can finally say 'spring is here!' I can also say 'my garden has it's first rose of 2011.' This rose grows on a small climbing bush. The canes reach about 6' long. It's what I call the neighborhood rose. It's been passed along from neighbor to neighbor and can be seen at several of the houses around my street. I'm not sure if I've had a rose on this bush this soon or not, but it's a treat having it on this first day of spring!

3/19/11

2011-03-19T12:12:00.002-05:00

Awww -the simple elegance of a pure white Iris!

03/18/11

2011-03-18T23:45:00.000-05:00

Citrus aurantifolia (Key Lime) and Photinia

I'm looking forward to a bumper crop of Key Limes this year. My little tree is covered with blooms! The red foliage in the background is from a Fraser Photinia.

3/17/11 St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T17:34:00.000-05:00

Oxalis (Shamrock Plant)

As the 'luck o' the Irish' would have it, my Shamrock Plant has a few little flowers on it. In not too many days it will be covered. This little clump has been returning for me for several years. It surrounds my little container water pond. I send these photos with an old Irish blessing.

May the road rise up to meet you.

May the wind always be at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face,

and rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

03/14/11

2011-03-14T00:10:00.002-05:00

Golden Groundsel (Senecio aureus) and Pelargonium

I just potted up some bright red Pelargonium. I've placed them near the Golden Groundsel that is beginning to bloom. I like the red and yellow combination because it's a little surprising for spring.

Some of you may remember the dumpster lounge chair in the background. Last year it was painted chartreuse, but now it is bright red for the 2011 season. In Feng Shui the back eastern area of a space is the 'Wealth and Prosperity' sector. I've placed the lounger in this location. Purple is often used as an enhancement in the 'Wealth and Prosperity' sector so my garden shed is painted a royal purple. Along with the shed I have purple wandering Jew that acts as a ground cover over most of the area. Along with ornamental grasses and lots of other perennials the space is 'rich' in its diversity. I've always liked red and purple together, so I decided this space would be the new home for my dumpster find for this year.

3/1/11

2011-03-01T19:24:00.000-06:00

Sedum telephium

What happens when summer kisses spring? That's what is about to happen with my Sedum telephium.

It started blooming as it always does in the late part of summer. As autumn approached, the pink flowers turned into russet seed heads. The beautiful reddish hue remained in the fall and through the ice and snow of winter. Now, as spring approaches, fresh new foliage is beginning to emerge. The proud stems standing about a foot above the new growth seem to be saying 'look how far we've come.' The auburn heads contrast so beautifully with the green leaves, that I plan on leaving them until the first day of spring when I will scatter them into the earth, but not a day sooner! I want the seeds and stems to enjoy the first sunlight of spring intact.

02/18/11

2011-02-18T23:12:00.003-06:00

Crocus vernus

The first bloom of the year! Spring is almost here!

1/30/11

2011-01-30T14:23:00.003-06:00

Opuntia sublata montrose 'Christmas Tree'

Some call this Opuntia 'Christmas Tree.' So again it looks like I can't seem to leave Christmas behind, even though it's two days to February! The little red phylloclades on the tips of this cactus look like little red ornaments, don't they? Montrose is the smaller and may I say cuter version of the larger Opuntia sublata.

1/29/11

2011-01-29T13:27:00.003-06:00

Photo Fused Glass

Christmas 2010 already seems like years ago, but I keep forgetting to post this message. My Sister-in-Law made me this amazing Christmas present. It's an actual image of my house and garden. Isn't it the coolest! To see her 'stuff'' go to Palisade Stained Glass Art.

1/14/11

2011-01-14T11:02:00.003-06:00

Kalanchoe tomentosa (Panda Plant)

This is the 'vanilla' version of Kalanchoe t. 'Chocolate Soldier.' If I were choosing ice cream, I'd go with vanilla every time. If I had to choose between the plants, I would have a much more difficult time. For now, I like them equally.

1/12/11

2011-01-12T10:59:00.008-06:00

Kalanchoe tomentosa 'Chocolate Soldier'

We are finally having a winter! It's been in the teens. I've decided, while my plants and I are hibernating in the warmth of the house, to take the opportunity to get up close with my potted succulents and tropicals by photographing them.

The first to have this honor is this beauty. I dare anyone who sees it not to touch its fuzzy leaves. I love that it has a brownish tint. I'm not a chocolate fanatic but this plant may change that!

p.s. The table in the photograph is one of my 'mosaic decoupage' creations.

12/25/10

2010-12-25T14:30:00.003-06:00

Merry Christmas from my home to yours.

11/15/10

2010-11-15T11:24:00.003-06:00

You may have noticed that I've taken a break. I'm ready to get back out there and photograph my garden before we get a freeze, any day now.

The hardest part is, it's too dark in the morning when I head to work and by the time I get home it's already dark again.

I'll try though --- and who knows maybe I'll become an expert at night photography!

Keep your fingers crossed!

10/21/10

2010-10-21T09:39:00.003-05:00

Sweet Potato Emarald Lace

You may remember my chaise lounge from earlier posts here and here. At the moment it is covered in chartreuse like the color it is painted. Stay tune for its next incarnation.

10/19/10 TUESDAY ENSEMBLE

2010-10-19T08:44:00.002-05:00

Vinca Cora Pink and Cora Burgundy, Swamp Sunflower, Texas Asters, and Arnold the Flying Metal Pig.

10/18/10

2010-10-18T13:49:00.002-05:00

Yucca filamentosa 'Color Guard' and Rose 'Sweet Pea'

Another plant from my garden decided to make friends with a potted plant nearby. I noticed my 'Sweet Pea' Rose getting frisky with my Yucca 'Color Guard. I hope they didn't noticed me taking pictures.

10/16/10

2010-10-16T17:35:00.005-05:00

Swamp Sunflower Update

My Swamp Sunflowers are really taking off now. A while back I posted a picture of when they were just beginning. Now that they are in full bloom the scent is even more DIVINE!

10/13/10

2010-10-13T09:48:00.002-05:00

Celosia and American Beautyberry

I planted a couple of different varieties of Celosia seeds a few years back. Since then, they re-seed all over the garden. I let them grow wherever they pop up. They have morphed, through the years, and each plant seems to have different characteristics. This one popped up in front of my American Beautyberry. It's grown to about four and half feet tall. The color combination of the purple berries behind the reddish purple Celosia spikes is quite pleasing to view.

10/12/10 TUESDAY ENSEMBLE

2010-10-12T10:45:00.006-05:00

Hot and Sweet Ensemble

Gomphrena haageana Strawberry Fields, Profusion Zinnia Apricot, Ornamental Peppers Sangria and Calico.

10/11/10

2010-10-11T19:43:00.002-05:00

Zinnia elegans

I sewed red Zinnia elegans seeds in July. This is the first bloom. There are three other about to open up as well. I like starting them late because powdery mildew seems not to bother them as much in the fall. Instead of a multitude of colors I decided to go with just one bright red. It's a shocking red - the best kind!

10/05/10 TUESDAY ENSEMBLE

2010-10-05T13:08:00.004-05:00

Scarlet Sage (Salvia coccinea) / Setcreasea pallida 'Purple Heart' / Setcreasea (unknown variety) / Garlic Chives (Allium tuberosum)

I'm going to try something new. On Tuesdays I will be posting pictures of ensembles. Other than the plant names there will be no text. I'm terrible about doing anything routine, but I'm going to give it a shot. Let's start it off with this quartet.

10/04/10

2010-10-04T10:17:00.002-05:00

California Aloe and Garlic Chives

The cool thing about putting potted plants in amongst the flowering garden beds is that sometimes unexpected combinations appear. I liked seeing the pristine white blooms of the Garlic Chives flopping over into my silvery blue Aloe California. I wish I could say I planned it, but I can't, I only discovered it.

10/01/10

2010-10-01T15:45:00.004-05:00

Salvia coccinea 'Coral Nymph'

Yippee it's October! The weather is beautiful outside!!! In Texas, the autumn is spring part II! To celebrate I'm showing off my 'Coral Nymph.' The color reminds me of spring and fall. Mix a handful of easter egg pink with a tablespoon of autumn orange and what do you get? Coral!

09/30/10

2010-09-30T19:32:00.002-05:00

Cinnamon Cactus (Opuntia microdasys var. rufida)

I saw this Opuntia in the window and I just had to have him! Actually, I decided he was too expensive so I left without him. I couldn't get him out of my head so I returned the next day just to look at him. To my horror, he was gone! I asked about him and nobody knew anything about him. It finally dawned on a sales person that he might be in the half price pile in the back. I walked back to check and there he was. They had thrown him on the ground like last night's dinner. I felt so sorry for him I decided it was my lot in life to come to his rescue. I picked him up paid for him and took him home. Little did I know that he must have been happier laying on the ground in a heap because he stuck his little needles in me from head to toe. Those pretty little cinnamon colored polka dots were weapons in disguise! After I soaked in a hot tub to remove those little instruments of pain, all was forgiven andI'm happy I adopted him. He seems to be adjusting to his new home fine, and he's even made best friends with a near by Salvia. They not only enjoy each other's company but they compliment each other well, don't you think?

09/29/10

2010-09-29T18:19:00.003-05:00

Swamp Sunflower 'Santa Fe'

It's that time of year again! The Swamp Sunflowers are just beginning to bloom. They aren't at their 'Kodak Moment' yet, but I couldn't resist getting an early picture. The scent is already amazing! I got this variety at High Country Gardens a few years ago. They have multiplied like rabbits!

09/28/10

2010-09-28T16:01:00.003-05:00

Black Fountain Grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Moundry') surrounded by Salvia coccinea and Castro Bean Plant (Ricinus communis)

I have devoted an area in my backyard to ornamental grasses. This one grew from seeds I scattered. It has grown to a significant sized clump considering it is one of the smaller grasses. I love the purple tone in the blackish plumes. I see it popping up everywhere in my pseudo-meadow. It is such a beautiful grass that I'll most likely let a few of them stay.

09/26/10

2010-09-26T15:26:00.004-05:00

Salvia farinacea 'Henry Duelberg'

This year I finally decided to toss the Cannas that were at my front door path. I replaced them with a native Salvia 'Henry Duelberg.' I have not regretted the change one bit! The Cannas required constant care. The spraying, the watering - oy - no more! In contrast, The Salvia has had absolutely no care and has been in bloom since mid April. I did save a couple of Cannas and put them in pots. As usually however they look ratty and sad. I may let them die in their pots. I guess I do have my limits when it comes to plant selections. That at least is nice to know!

09/22/10

2010-09-22T09:20:00.003-05:00

Euphorbia cotnifolia

A couple of nights ago I looked out my back window and saw a plant glowing that at first I didn't recognize. I realized it was my Euphorbia c. with back lighting. I quickly ran and got my camera. Some plants are even more beautiful when the sun shines behind them. I now know Euphorbia c. is one of them.

09/14/10

2010-09-14T10:08:00.002-05:00

Senecio scaposus and Euphorbia anoplia

It's interesting that so many succulents look like sea creatures. I came across Euphorbia anoplia (Zipper Plant) and thought it looked like an octupus. When some Senecio scaposus (Silver Coral)

caught my attention I knew the two had to go together in the same pot. I surrounded the Euphorbia with the Senecio in a pot that reminded me of the ocean. What I ended up with was a strange looking sea creature. I kind of like it.

I owe this spurt of creativity to Debra Lee Baldwin who wrote a fantastic book titled Succulent Container Gardens. I decided to throw my own mix together after reading her book. I have a feeling I'm hooked!

09/10/10

2010-09-10T20:03:00.003-05:00

Potted succulents

I've begun to add potted succulents to my flower beds. If I had it my way I'd plant them in the ground. I live in Zone 8 however and most of them would perish. People ask me why I wish I lived in my birth state of California - this is one major reason! The grass is always greener...

9/07/10

2010-09-07T09:36:00.003-05:00

Oxblood Lily

Last fall I transplanted all of my Oxblood lilies into one bed. Before that they were scattered here and there. I decided they would look great in my circular bed of variegated Liriope. The show is not quite as spectacular as I had hoped. They are popping up sporadically rather than en masse. I have hope for future displays though since the lilies multiply rather quickly. One year in September I will look out my kitchen window and see a circle of bright bright red and green.

09/01/10

2010-09-01T15:30:00.003-05:00

Re-seeding 'Balcony' Petunia

I grew this heirloom petunia last year. It almost made it through the summer. I was hoping it would re-seed. I gave up thinking it had until this one popped up in the middle of spring. It has been going strong all these months. It soared through August and this is what it looked like last night. I do believe this one will make into the fall. It is a climbing petunia and it's almost 4 feet high on the arbor I have it growing up. It grows beside a bright bougainvillea. Balcony Petunia is a real winner!

08/29/10

2010-08-29T16:59:00.002-05:00

Birthday Pot

This past July my twin brother and I had one of the 'big' birthdays. The kind where you look down at your written age and shake your head in disbelief! To mark the occasion my brother surprised me with this beautiful pot. When he told me he made it I was even more impressed.

The heat in Texas this August has been pounding down on us like the fury of satan. I noticed that the plants showing no sign of pain were my potted succulents and cacti. As my pot sat empty I decided I wanted to pot something in it that would add to my healthy assortment. What better plant to plant than a cactus! I found this 'Ming Thing' (Cereus forbessi monstrose) on sale and knew it would be perfect. I was glad to be able to add my brother's gift to my blossoming collection of potted beauties!

08/18/10

2010-08-18T08:47:00.003-05:00

This blog is not dead!

Sorry it has been awhile since I've posted anything. It is August and HOT! These days all I am doing is keeping things from dying. There have been very few 'Kodak moments!' Look for new posts soon, as the weather gets cooler. Can October get here fast enough?!?

7/12/10

2010-07-12T15:42:00.003-05:00

Datura

Datura, like me, is nocturnal. Last night the blooms on my Datura started opening. The scent that was in the air was overwhelming. The blooms only have this scent at night. In the morning don't try to sniff it or you will be more than disappointed. It's on the verge of peeeyyyyeeeew. Much like me in the morning!

0710/10

2010-07-10T15:10:00.005-05:00

BOG SAGE in the garden

This summer we have had our share of rain. There is at least one plant in my garden that isn't complaining. Salvia uliginosa (Bog Sage) is one of the salvias that actually does well with extra water. It is also the truest sky blue I've seen in a sage. It grows up to about 5 feet tall and flops around in the garden adding joy everywhere. It does multiply, so if you don't want too much of it, spread the joy to others!

07/06/10

2010-07-06T16:09:00.002-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY FRIDA KAHLO!

My brother's family gave me this Frida Kahlo doll for Christmas last year. Today I sprinkled flowers from the garden at her feet to honor her birthday.

06/25/10

2010-06-25T09:02:00.003-05:00

Desert Rose (Adenium obesum)

This is one of my favorite tropicals. It isn't hardy in my zone, so I bring it inside during the winter. I can see it out my kitchen window every morning. -A good way to start the day!

06/18/10

2010-06-18T16:12:00.003-05:00

Rudbeckia 'Cappucino' and Euphorbia cotinifolia

The Rudbeckia 'Cappucino' that I grew from seed last year made it through the winter. I was shocked to see that, in the pots, the foliage never died back, even though our winter was an unusually harsh one. I like how it looks against the Euphorbia which is also another potted plant from last year. It was protected indoors through the winter.

06/15/10

2010-06-15T11:37:00.005-05:00

University of Texas, Arlington

I saw these temporary installations, in one of the courtyards, at U.T.A. Pretty interesting!

06/12/10

2010-06-12T17:28:00.003-05:00

Veronica 'Blue Charm'

I love the cool icy blue of Veronica 'Blue Charm.' Just what you need for an early hot summer! It grows with the 'Perle d'Or' Rose, the 'Knock Out' rose, and 'Jacob Kline' Monarda.

06/07/10

2010-06-07T13:59:00.003-05:00

Brazilian Verbena

I was inspired by some photos in a Martha Stewart magazine of some Brazilian Verbena growing in amidst some Mexican Feather Grass. The golden grass contrasted with the purple verbena in a most beautiful way. I decided to try the same thing but with Pink Muhly Grass. Right now it looks a bit weedy for my taste but I'm hoping that in the Fall when the grass is covered in pink that the Verbena will still be around. I'm crossing my fingers!

06/04/10

2010-06-04T15:36:00.003-05:00

Coneflowers and Daylilies

My orange Daylilies (Crimson Pirate and Orange Crush) started blooming alongside my orange Coneflowers. I'm in orange heaven! Next comes two purple Gayfeathers about to bloom with them. Anticipation!