schirmere's Journal

When we moved in, our frontyard contained Boxwoods and Indians according to our home builder. Well my wife did not like the boxwoods because they only have berries, no flowers. The indians flowered, but were nothing special. Once we removed these originals, I planted gardenias and hydrangeas. The hydrangeas said full to part sun and the location receives morning sun through about 1pm. Apparently in our region, they hydrangea needs mostly shade because they all died rather quickly. Then a newspaper in our area had an article on crinums describing the old fashioned plant and how hardy they were. I thought they were pretty and sounded like they might work. I purchased 5 Ellen Bosanquet. They grew and did not flower much the next year, but this year there are many blooms and plenty of new pups coming up as well. I am very pleased. Many people comment how they like them because they are unique and most other homes do not have them. One person described them as coming home to Grandma’s house, so I think that is a compliment:)

The gregg’s mistflower has really enjoyed its location. I planted three small clumps about 6 in. in height. Now they are about 2-3 ft high and 2 ft wide clumps after 3 months of the Texas spring and summer. They have bloomed twice, currently in their second blooming and I enjoy the light blue coloring it gives to the front yard.

I purchased Gregg’s Mistflower at one of the area’s spring plant sales due to it being native to our climate, unique flower, and being attractive to butterflies.

A neighbor of ours divided her pink sedum and gave it to us. I further divided and have about 7 of them in the front.

The peace rose is very beautiful with all its flowers. The problem I have is with black spot. It is puzzling since the temps are in the 100’s and I live in a relatively windy area close to a lake. Anyways it requires constant supervision, but its really the only plant I have that does and I think its worth it.