A Few of My Favorite Things

Even though the weather was a tad drier yesterday, this summer heat has me feeling a bit sad about the gardens. There hasn’t been a ton of energy to go and battle the inevitable weeds and upkeep in the perennial borders. So why not hum to Julie Andrews, “When I'm feeling sad, I simply remember my favorite things, and then I don't feel so bad.” So from the top: here are a few of my favorite things that are blooming right now in my garden. Visit the previous posts for some images and info.

* Hydrangea ‘Unique’ http://blog.bilowzassociates.com/2009/07/height-of-hydrangea-season.html This is peak hydrangea season. There are many new developments and varieties in this genus so go beyond the lace caps.
* Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’ http://blog.bilowzassociates.com/2009/07/dividing-up-candy-bar.html This is one of my favorite summer perennials because it has a red-hot color and its texture and height make any border sing.
* Rudbeckia hirta (Black-eyed Susan) and Echinacea purpurea, (Cone flower). These plants are great for hot, dry conditions; perfect choices for cut flower arrangements.
* The genus Hemerocallis: Daylilies and Daylilies and Daylilies
http://blog.bilowzassociates.com/2010/06/if-only-for-one-day.html
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=182365&id=325316334444&ref=mf
These are my more recent posts on Daylilies but check out Annie’s archives for great haunts to purchase your colors and forms. Now is the time to get your Daylilies.
* Who can forget the pig weed? It is supposedly good for a spinach substitute. So before it goes to seed, give it a go. I haven’t ventured there yet but if some things fail in the veggie garden, I just may go to my test kitchen and whip up a batch of sautéed pig weed.

If the heat has you down, look around and see what colors and textures make you chipper. When the weather moderates, it’s time to start dividing and spreading your favorite things around the garden. Or better yet, take a trip to the local nursery for some new mid-summer splash. Don’t forget to post your favorite things in your garden. I would love to hear what makes you sing.

Have to scoot. I’m due to perform on the hilltop in five.
Image from the Internet