Remembering 9/11/01. . .
I've started a new perennial bed. I've never done this before, start to finish. It will be a 30' x 5' island in the middle of the back yard. I've been following Andre Viette's recommendations as outlined in his books and on his website www.inthegardenradio.com (check out "Preparing the Bed" in the tips & advice section.)
Hubby sprayed the grass with a turf killer. We've worked on removing the sod slowly - it is a serious workout in the heat and humidity. I hope to get the last bit of sod up, edge with bricks, and loosen/till the soil this weekend (going to call Ms. Utility today!). I've got the recommended amendments already (Plant Tone, gypsum, greensand, Osmocote.) This weekend I hope to get some topsoil and compost in the trailer. The edging bricks are leftovers from Hubby's parents. They had some walkways installed -- lucky me! Thanks Grandmom, PopPop and G.G.
Hubby will have to help, because it's beefy manly work (wink, wink). Besides I love to see (not smell) him working hard with his work boots and shorts - it's fabulous. Hauling the bricks, the topsoil (for 8-10" deep) and the compost . . . I'd rather have someone else do that. Then, there's the mixing too. Everywhere you read the gardening guru's tell you, "Make sure the soil is healthy. It's by far the most important aspect of gardening." I agree. Get it right the first time.
It's the planting I love . . . the creativity and imagination realized. Such satisfaction and enjoyment in the end product . . . my pastors will see a sermon there!
Almost all the plants in this new bed will be transplants and divisions from elsewhere in the yard. I will buy more of the same plants to fill in where there's an empty spot. I don't forsee any other plants needing to be added. The bed will be greens, purples and light pinks. . . so imagine a dogwood and a pink crape myrtle as bookends. Caryopteris, miscanthus, and russian sage for height and winter interest. Also peonies, tall and creeping sedums, heucheras, catmint, mazus, veronica, stachys, echinops, and phlox.
Can't wait for next spring . . . Inspired to get your hands dirty? I am.
2 Responses to “A New Garden Bed”
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September 22nd, 2008 at 8:35 pm
Hi,
Just wanted to send you a quick note to let you know I checked out your blog, and was impressed with the interesting content. As an amateur webmaster, I can appreciate the time and effort you have taken with the site.
Thanks
Mike Butler
Bloomin Designs Nursery
558 Auburn Rd
Auburn, GA 30011
http://www.bloomindesigns.com
September 22nd, 2008 at 9:20 pm
Thanks Mike for the “interesting” compliment. My husband, Matt, has to take all credit for design and maintanence - he created the site as a surprise for me! . . . I take the blame for the content. Good Luck to you. Jean(Green Thumb Momma)