Friday, August 21, 2009

The garden's end-of-summer blooms....

A while back I showed you photos of our purple butterfly bush... At that time, our white one hadn't yet bloomed (more than likely because it didn't get as much sun as the purple one)....


...but, as you can see, it has now started blooming...


It has beautiful little white blossoms with tiny yellow centers....


There were no butterflies when I went out to photograph it, but this busy little bee said he'd happily pose for photos...


The salvia has made a second comeback, although not nearly as profound as the first time it bloomed. But it still gives that little burst of color around the base of the birdhouse....

And the scarlet runner bean (whose flowers are very attractive to hummingbirds) are winding their way up the pole with reckless abandon.

The tall garden phlox are now in bloom, although once again, I am hampered by a lack of sun here in the backyard.


The alternative would be to cut down some of our trees, which I am absolutely not willing to do, so we will just settle for a mostly shade/partial sun backyard...

I finally got one photo that showed the true colors of the phlox - they are breathtaking!


My red monarda, which bloomed first, is on the way out....


....and now the pale lilac monarda are taking center stage.


For the first year after being planted, I'm pleased with how the flowers are doing. Not being a natural at gardening, it is definitely a hit or miss process for me so I'm sure I'll be tweaking and moving things around for years to come!


But not today... It's too bloody MUGGY out and Sammy and I would rather just relax and enjoy the garden, just as it is... After all, there are only a few weeks left before the crisper, cooler fall air makes its arrival!!
Wishing you all a relaxing end to your summers!!
COMMENT UPDATE: Lyn, Sammy was taking a siesta on the deck railing, but he looked up when he saw me at the slider with the camera. When the weather is this hot and muggy, all our Sammy's lay as flat as pancakes on railings or tree branches and their little hind legs look like frog legs!
COMMENT UPDATE #2: Hi Betty! I got my birdhouse in the summer of 2008 from The Christmas Tree Shop, a chain of stores here in the Northeast. I did not see any this summer, however... If you do a search on-line, there are lots of great birdhouses available so I bet you'll be able to find just what you're looking for!
Donna

12 comments:

Sometimes It's Good said...

Your flowers are so pretty. I just love Sammy...what a cute guy he is.
Hugs, Susan

Lyn said...

What is Sammy doing?
I love your garden flowers, thank you for sharing them.
Love
Lyn
xxx

Claudia said...

So pretty, Donna! I love the lilac monarda - I'll have to look for some for next year's garden. The phlox is such a wonderful color and I love the scarlet runner bean. You're giving me some ideas for next year! Oh, that Sammy! He is such a cutie. Have a great weekend!

Cottage Rose said...

Hi Donna; My you have a beautiful flower garden. Such lovely flowers, and the squirrel is just adorable.....lol have a great weekend,

Hugs;
Alaura

Brenda Pruitt said...

What cute little critters on your railings! Your flowers are so beautiful. I envy you the color in your garden. The weather just pounced my flowers before they ever got to a good start this year.
Brenda

Shabby Chick said...

Those are such gorgeous photos, your plants are SOOOO pretty!

Thanks v much for your lovely comments on my blog, I'm always glad to give some inspiration :)

Mel xxx

Debi said...

Donna dear,
what a beautiful bunch of flowers!! And Sammy... he must be a great pet!! :D Loved your post.
Have a wonderfully blessed day dear.
Debi xo
http://whatscookninjunk@blogspot.com/

Cami @ Creating Myself said...

I love your shady backyard garden...it's probably as comfortable as it is beautiful!

Bargain Decorating with Laurie said...

Your blog is appropriately named. Your garden is enchanting. laurie

Mary Ellen said...

These are beautiful pictures Donna, you have a lovely garden. And that squirrel is a HOOT.

You certainly have a green thumb.
You must love being in your garden all the time.

Mary Ellen

Nezzy (Cow Patty Surprise) said...

What a beautiful bloomin bunch of beautiful blooms! I hate to see the season and the flowers fade away. I have a squirrel here in the Ozarks named Rocky. No, he can't fly but I bet he and Sammy would have a nutty time together. Ya'll have a wonderful day!!!

Tanya said...

Donna, your garden looks just beautiful. Love the lavender Monarda.