in the past two years... and forces beyond my control were in control of those changes. Two years ago concrete construction made it necessary to dig up and pot about 40% of the plants. They lived through the summer in those pots until I could finally replant them in the fall.
Last year a hellacious hail storm damaged all large-leafed perennials.
But this spring, at least so far, has produced a garden that just gets better with every passing day.
The Dwarf Oakleaf Hydrangea has almost achieved its mature size and is loaded with pyramidal panicles of white flowers in summer. It has quietly achieved the status of cornerstone of the old shade tree bed.
For the next 2-3 years the Bottlebrush Buckeye will be a suitable companion for the Hydrangea. Since it will eventually grow quite large it will eventually be moved to a site where it can more easily spread out. It looks as though it will put on a terrific floral display this summer.
The Hosta... Brother Stefan... was the Hosta of the Year in 2017. So far this year it has put up an imposing foliage display with more on the way.
About a month ago I bought 9 four inch pots of 'Sentimental Blue' Balloon Flowers and located them in the northwest corner of the shade tree bed. Looking at the photo, I realized 4 of them already need to be moved to areas with more sun. Added to two Lantanas that need the same thing, I now have 6 new plants needing new homes. Plants needing a transplant number 11. The two additional plants are both Heucheras.