More Garden Secrets

Recently, the North winds have introduced natural cool air into my garden landscape, fading the summer glory that provided inspiration for my series of hidden treasures. The energy level in my studio has also perked up and creative work is in full swing once more. I have finished the garden series, which began in August. Here are four of the secrets:

In the spring, my garden is breathtaking with many old-fashion bearded irises. Those are the variety that is wonderfully fragrant and have been in my garden for decades. I have two types, the royal purple ones and the intense yellow ones. I’m sure each variety has an official botanical name, but are lost in time and by my ignorance. I only know these irises each spring are sensational. Purple Majesty, 6"x 6"

Another old favorite in many gardens is the day lily. Mine have been transplanted from another garden, which makes it a welcomed newcomer.

Old Favorite, 6" x 6"

My community is blessed annually by the migration of beautiful Monarch butterflies. On the way north, black and orange flutters among my flowers in the spring and returns again in the fall on the way back to Mexico. Did you know that a group of butterflies is called a Congregation? Butterfly Kiss, 6" x 6"

Some gardeners do not appreciate the presence of snails slipping around their garden. In the cool of a spring morning, I will find these interesting critters. Those existing in my garden are very small. When I lived in the Pacific Northwest, the snails were enormous and people on the Olympic peninsula would collect them to sell to chefs. Escargot, anyone? Slow Pace, 6"x6"