Winter snuck in overnight. Or maybe we weren’t paying attention. We both had what we thought was the flu and lots of outside chores were put on hold. Turns out, we tested positive for covid.
At least, the predicted freezing sleet and icy roads did not happen.
One moment tropical Hibiscus was blooming and the next, everything had to be rushed into the greenhouse. So bundled up in a drizzling rain, we hustled to gather up what needed winter protection.
After we added soil to the pots and cleaned out some debris, African Bulbine did really well this year. A South African native, it loves heat but is only cold hardy down to 20 degrees.
The roses have been a special treat this fall, blooming like crazy. Princess Alexandra of Kent, a David Austin rose, has the sweetest aroma of any of my roses. Plus, the form of the roses are spectacular.
Maggie Rose, which Dr. William Welch of A&M found in Louisiana, reblooms so often, it’s difficult to keep it deadheaded.
My all time favorite mum is Country Girl Mum. With a totally different look from the more common Purple Aster, it lifts my heart every time I see it.
With its pink white large petals, it looks like a daisy in the fall. It seems to originated in Texas, possibly as a seeding from another mum. It’s definitely one for a home landscape.
“A mean thought is just a sin that happens on the inside.” Lisa Wingate, Never Say Never