It's July 15 and we've had quite the streak of dry sunny weather on the Westcoast so far this year. The sun has been magnification for all the sun loving perennials and annuals. The trick is to make sure the plants have a constant drink of water. This proves a challenge when the majority of the garden beds do not have irrigation and watering restrictions are in place. Fortunately, hand watering reduces excess water waste but it truly is a full time job at this course. Priority watering is definitely awarded to the hanging baskets - gravity is not in their favor for retaining moisture. Secondly, container plants require more frequent watering than plants in a garden bed - so they jump the queue. Ultimately, the smaller the volume of soil, the more watering is required. But, the added labour of consistent watering has definitely paid off this year. I would say the plants have taken on Amazonian characteristics - large and lush.
Here is some pictures of the plants in the new garden bed at #9.
The sea of Calamogrostis 'Karl Foerster' grasses have grown taller then me (excellent place to hide by the way). They look so effortless when they sway in the breeze. A large mass planting of Lavender (Lavandula x intermedia) has attracted numerous pollinators...and members asking for cuttings to add fragrance to their homes. There is also a selection of prairie perennials, which were really fun to pair together, like painting with flowers. Ultimately, I think I achieved my goal of creating an accessible, relaxed, and inviting space.
