Most of the nearly 800 begonias planted in the garden this week get watered by the inground sprinklers. The irrigation system does a fine job. But when this afternoon's temperature reached 88 degrees, I felt the fragile little flowers needed an extra drink; so I made my way around, hose in hand.
It was when I turned that my two clumps of Lady's Mantle caught my eye, and I wondered what changed this year to cause them to triple in size — maybe even quadruple! They've struggled for years. Whatever the reason, I'm delighted. Eager to admire the fun way water droplets rest silvery on their velvety leaves, I pointed the hose in their direction and gave them a light sprinkle. I think a few stems plunked into a water-filled bottle is in order. Or maybe a single stem showcasing those dainty yellow-green flowers for my bedside table? My mind reels with the possibilities!
