Monthly Archives: February 2011

To Prune or Not To Prune

Julia Childs rose blooms next to fall's hipsJulia Childs rose blooms next to fall’s hips, and some  rusty leaves, which I cropped out of this photo.  She hasn’t been pruned in three seasons,  so I better get busy.   As soon as it  quits raining tomorrow, I think.  She has such a lovely scent, and grows tall so you can see her at the back of the bed over the other roses,  bachelors buttons, etc.  Last year she was invaded by Brandywine,   but this year I will be stricter with Brandywine.   Actually, Brandywine was so delicious, I might build him his own 10 foot tower.

An Early Volunteer

An Early Volunteer, the first Flanders Poppy arrives in FebruaryAn Early Volunteer, the first Flanders Poppy arrives in February!

I haven’t seeded any this year,  and the garden is full of them, so we will see what happens.  I think they will all  pop well before May.  Of course if they are to thrive, I will have to weed  the bed…..

Anemones

Anemones up in Fountain Valley, California garden of artist Cathy Hatfield

The anemones have been blooming for a few weeks now,  up early as good Anemones are!  They made cheerful Valentines bouquets, mixed with chineria.    Alas, today I found two seperate sackfuls that I haven’t planted.  So we will have late season anemones too.