Happy New Year!

The last day of the calendar year has arrived. On this day we reflect on the twelve months that have just passed and look forward to the 365 days ahead. Those of us who love gardens and gardening begin to think about excursions and acquisitions we yearn to make during the new year. 

My garden travel plans? I hope to return to Taiwan and spend more time visiting gardens there.

And in my own garden, my goal is to tame more of the "jungle" by adding more ferns to an area overrun by English ivy. 

I wish for each of you a blessed 2015. What are your garden-related goals and dreams?

Rose of Sharon

This rose of Sharon languished until I moved it into full sun

Hibiscus syriacus, better known as rose of Sharon, is a hardy deciduous shrub native to Asia. 

A few years ago I bought a small rose of Sharon and planted it where I wanted it - outside the laundry room. That first year it graced me with a few flowers. The next year there might have been two or three blossoms; the following year probably none. It didn't seem to grow any taller or wider. If anything, I think it shrank. 

In spring of 2013, I moved it to a spot with full sun. It flourished in its new location, shooting up a few feet in height and bursting into flower. This summer it bloomed early and profusely and continues to do so. 

While visiting public gardens, I've been introduced to other members of the hibiscus family, to other varieties I'd grow if I had sufficient room. 

A double white Rose of Sharon growing in Greensboro's Arboretum

This pink grows near the entrance to the Mount Pleasant Land Conservancy's Marsh View Trail