Burst of Early June Blooms

We left to visit relatives for a few days and came back to a burst of blooms on several plants. None were blooming when I left.

Knockout Roses (with Columbine) and Nearly Wild Roses

 Peonies

Goatsbeard

Poppies

Ninebark

Mock Orange (I don't know why the leaves near the flowers always get brown edges)

Rhododendron

Last of my Irises

Coral Bells

Gas Plant (it is pinker than this pic makes it seem)

Summer Allium (the foliage is not from them)

Orchid and Irises

About 2 to 2 ½ years ago, I was given a gift of an orchid plant. It was in bloom at the time. It continued to bloom for about 6 months. I have never tried orchids and was impressed with the long bloom time. But, when it got to the point where the last full bloom fell off and there was one somewhat shriveled bud on the flower stalk, I cut the stalk off (two of them, actually). I repotted the plant in a larger container (being careful to use “orchid potting mix”) and waited. And waited. And waited about a year. Then, finally, last winter, a flower stalk started. And, now, in May, it has blossomed beautifully. At this moment, it has not one, not four, but NINE open blossoms!

And outside, the irises are looking beautiful!

Things are Looking Blue

This time of year, my garden takes on a decided “blue” tone. I realized this a number of years ago. I think it is a bit funny because I do not seek out blue flowers. Part of it is lavender (which I realize is not “blue”), but the overall effect is “blue”. I’ve got some blue salvia (May Nights) just starting. I’ve got assorted blue iris, blue columbine, and blue/lavender wood hyacinth. Also, the (lavender) dwarf lilacs add to the picture.

Variegated Iris

Columbine - I let it wander where it wants to. Some years, I get a lot; sometimes not quite as much. It is easy enough to pull out when it is finished flowering if I think it is in the way. Right now, these are spread through my front beds.

 Wood Hyacinth

 Different iris (I think of these as "Delft", but I do not know their true name).

Petunia (love the speckled effect, although I would prefer it was magenta)

 And, the dwarf lilacs