A journal could be filled with a list of plants that have come and gone in our now 22-year-old garden — plants that had no business ever being brought up onto this wooded hill and planted. Sun lovers and those that don't like wet feet never stood a chance. I didn’t know then what I know now.
While a couple of beds enjoy a bit of bright, warm sunshine throughout the day, they only barely qualify as receiving “part sun." It took years for me to learn that “part shade” best describes most of our beds. Little light and underground springs sent countless rhododendrons and hollies packing. More than a few pricey conifers, too — specimen plants, as they say. And did I mention perennials? Hundreds. Gone. Most of what I know about gardening I learned by trial and error, and I don't recommend it. It's time consuming and expensive.
My planting successes increased over time — yay! — due in part to finding a few reliable workhorses. I can always count on viburnums, and eight varieties currently call our garden "home.” The highly anticipated, fantastically fragrant bloom of my favorite, carlesii, is just around the corner. I take such pleasure in watching the flowers form, knowing each day brings us closer to the joy of inhaling their sweet, powerful-and-I-mean powerful perfume — a treasured annual treat!
Beautiful focus and dof - your narrative reminded me of my grandfather...he was the gardener of the family - many varieties, but roses were his specialty.
