Every year for decades I have enjoyed my plantings of Phlox. Thousands of blossoms everywhere. They drop seed and in two years, dozens more pop into bloom. It is dazzling, heartwarming and a sight to be seen. They hold up very well during the rainy days of April. But ever so often, the combined rain and wind is just too much for the tiny stems to withstand- They get knocked over and seldom are able to stand again. It hurts.
Mid April is usually the peak of bloom, but this year it was earlier. Always a new one blooms from seeds dropped a previous season. Different colors evolve and bloom size can vary. They transplant easily and seem to enjoy being moved around by me. Sometimes there are just too many in one spot or I want to put another type plant there to change or alter the color scheme. Phlox always oblige.
Usually after the ‘phlox’ show, the garden is less interesting. But I decided to change that. This spring I am putting in more than a hundred foxglove plants. (Digitalis) and about the same amount of hybrid columbines. Most folks insist that digitalis are perennial, but I don’t think so. They usually bloom, produce hundreds of seeds and the mother plant dies. The seeds will most likely bloom the following summer.
Foxgloves you buy now in bloom at garden centers will only carry their beautiful blooms for a couple of weeks and then you are stuck with the seed pods. Self raised plants bloom later and last much longer. Plus the fact you don’t get the pleasure of watching the plant grow and develop.
I learned long ago that there is much more to gardening than brilliant blooms. It is the best therapy one can get. Even if your knees are not so willing anymore, have a go at it. You’ll be glad you did.
N,A.
N.A. Booko- I dig the earth . . .
Date: Wed, 15 Apr 2020 16:08:13 -0400
From: “N.A. Booko”
Subject: The Trail of fallen blossoms . .