July 27, 2009
Beautiful Blooms!

All summer long, we all wait for our plants to grow and bloom. One of my favorites is the 'Endless Summer' hydrangeas. If you're not familiar with them, run out and see us soon. They are gorgeous and provide continuous blooms throughout the summer starting around July. Last week, I finally had a few blooms open up on mine, and I haven't stopped looking at it since!

Many of you have probably heard me talk about my mom's hydrangea. Five years ago, I landscaped her backyard and planted one near her deck on the northside of her house. It has done amazing in those years with large, blue blossoms. I know she doesn't do much for changing the pH of the soil, so someday hers will probably be more pink. No matter what the color, they will be showstoppers in the garden. Now reaching four feet tall and wide, it provides her with numerous blossoms, 24 to those who are counting their blossoms! And the blossoms last for several weeks on the plant and in a vase. I've witnessed it where the water becomes blue in the vase, which is an added interest for me. The best location for them I have found to be on the east or north side of a building or house. 'Endless Summer' do best in morning sun and seem to be unhappy when the sun in baking on them in the afternoon sun. Three of mine are on the north side of the garage and flanked by 'Frances Williams' hosta, 'Stella de Oro' daylilies and numerous impatiens along the border. Everything is looking great there, and I'm happy to report there are no weeds! It is a great example of how mulch retards weed growth. Now if only I could say the vegetable garden is weed free! Maybe tomorrow...

Let me know if you have any questions or comments on your garden.
I can be reached at wajasper@sargentsgardens.com

Happy Gardening!
Wendy Jasper
MNLA Certified Professional

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