The Arrival of Spring

It got off to a slow start here in early April, but the last couple of weeks have generally been very nice. Other than one almost hot Sunday, it's usually the perfect warm sunny days, cool nights and the occassional rain.

One group of Hellebores right outside my front door was in fine shape around the vernal equinox, but were then laid flat by the snow and cold rain in early April. A couple weeks later...















Another newer Hellebore in my garden this spring is Helleborus Ivory Prince, a clonal selection from crossing H. niger 'Potter's Wheel' and H. × ericsmithii. In any case, it has performed very well through the past two winters, and has produced an abundance of pink-flushed, creamy-white flowers this spring.















One more for Hellebores: the subtly beautiful H. cyclophyllus, considered by many to be the best of the green-flowered species. In addition, the decidious foliage emerges with a silky silvery sheen.












Spring-flowering bulbs are an excellent choice to herald the arrival of spring. They can be easily forgotten however at other times of year, particulary in the autumn, when they are available for planting. My favourites include the Crocus and Daffodils. Tulips are nice, but typically appropriate for a more formal setting. I prefer a more natural look.












Finally, the beautiful native (E. North America, from Nova Scotia west to Nebraska, south to Arkansas and N. Florida) Canadian Bloodroot or Sanguinaria canadensis. I love the way this plant emerges like little old-fashioned, rolled cigars to slowly unfurl a leaf and a then a simple white flower. The double form (S. canadensis 'Multiplex'), shown second below, is much sought-after but perhaps not as graceful.















Here's to the sights and sounds of spring, working in the garden on a Sunday morning, and a little dirt under your nails.

Until next week,

MPD