Spring is here

Warm temps the past two weeks have set the early bulbs in full on bloom mode. Snowdrops, crocus and iris reticulata are so charming with their lovely little flowers poking up above the dead foliage of last season's perennials. Hellebores are looking wonderful as well.

Here are a couple of photos of the reticulatas blooming right now. First up is Katherine Hodgkin. The best description I've seen is: "... a tinge of sea-green suffused with powder blue and fabulous intricate markings." The camera refuses to capture the etheral color tones of this iris when seen in person. it is not at all muddy or dull, but glows with almost opalescent tints.




This last is Cantab. An old variety from the early 20th century. Sky blue flowers are always reliable. Very hardy here in western WA. These have been in this pot for probably five years. Nothing else will grow in it so it is fairly ignored all summer, which the reticulatas like very much.

We've been very active in the garden this spring, since the weather has been so nice. Lots of progress on the property. I hope to post more pics soon of all the new additions.