the garden this morning

 The siberian irises, huge leaved hostas(forgot the name) and clematis are up. The beech trees are now fully leaved out so we are at full privacy and shade.

 Akebia vine and clematis share this arbor with myrtle shading their feet. Andy looking toward the new yellow Butteflies magnolia planted in the lawn.

Baptisia and the later blooming white allium.

 Sarah Bernhardt peonies are always reliable next to the side yard patio. The peonies in the big border in the back yard are very slow in coming this year, we covered them in rich compost last fall and they seem to be somewhat smothered but have finally popped through.

Hoping for babies again this year. At least the goldfish all made it through the winter. We have about 40 of them. Amazed they can stay alive in there in  such cold water under the ice!

 Honeysuckle vine not blooming yet, Japanese maple looking gorgeous.

The Edulis Superba peonies in the front gardens.

Water lilies in bloom with flag irises and lots of frogs perched on the rocks on the edge of the pond right now keeping the fish company.

Variegated hostas are not fully up yet. They seem smothered by the compost we placed last fall but are finally opening. Their pattern pops against the shade of the maples and beeches.

Dutchman's pipe vine loves the shade and is starting to fill in. Brunnera covers the ground. Andy, my garden companion, surveying the woods, on the lookout for deer.

stylish serendipity photos