Early Summer Garden

Looking east

The garden peaks in color and texture every year around the 1st of July. From a rather barren start in early spring to a lush, overflowing spectacle of perennials and grasses, it is truly a labor of love.

Mixed Rudbeckia

Monarda ( bee balm) and Baby"s Breath

Speaking of labor, people are often surprised when I tell them that maintaining the garden is not as labor intensive as it looks. Sure, there are peak periods of activity in early spring and later fall, mostly involving clean-up and cutting back. But from May to September, most of the work involves light trimming, pruning and of course, cutting the flowers to be displayed in vases.

Summer Phlox

Purple coneflower

There are a number of Midwestern/native prairie plants on the garden, paying homage to the region we live in. Coneflowers, goldenrod, phlox and other wildflowers reminding  us that we are in Nebraska.

There are a variety of Asiatic, Oriental and day lilies scattered throughout the landscape.

Yarrow

Yarrow, especially this tall varsity is a pungent and colorful plant. These make a great cutting specimen to adorn a vase of mixed perennials.

"Zowie" Zinnia

This variety of zinnia is called "Zowie" and I start these guys inside from seeds. Just a fun later winter project to coax spring on its way.

Monarda (Bee Balm)

Lupine

Last, but not least, a bevy of coneflowers.