This hot, dry weather has kept me from plant shopping mid-summer as I usually do, but I finally went out to the Flower Factory last week to get some drought-tolerant plants for the Traffic Island. I put in four sedums, a Hummingbird mint (Agastache) and some Alliums that were being shaded out elsewhere in the garden. A little rain and a follow-up hit with the hose and everything seems to be settling in nicely.
Also picked up a Geranium dalmaticum with tiny leaves that was too cute to resist and two ferns: Parsley and Holly. Both of those ferns have done fairly well for me elsewhere in the garden given this difficult summer.
While at the Flower Factory I had a nice chat with owner Nancy Nedvick who told me they opened in 1988, another record drought year. Given the terrible gardening conditions we've been having, the Flower Factory looked fabulous with beautiful displays as lush and lovely as always — well worth the trip!
Gosh you can grow holly fern?? I just love it and I can't find a place in my garden that it likes. Hmmmmm All of these plants look healthy.
Posted by: Lisa at Greenbow | Monday, August 13, 2012 at 11:28 AM
We made many a trip to the Flower Factory when I was growing up. It really is well worth the trip!
Posted by: mamaraby | Monday, August 13, 2012 at 12:09 PM
Lisa — Planted a holly fern last year that has come back but slow to increase etc. due to the weather. Thought Id try another in a spot with better conditions.
Jenny — I love the FF. Such an amazing selection plus huge display gardens. And everyone who works there knows their plants!
Posted by: Linda Brazill | Monday, August 13, 2012 at 12:18 PM