I didn’t know anything about Japanese irises when I moved into my house 28 years ago. Now, they are part of the family.
Their delicate purple flowers belie a hardy soul. They were the perfect plant for a budding gardener with more garden and house on her hands than she could handle!
One of my favorite garden tasks is dividing perennials. It reminds me of a buy one, get one free sale. I start with one plant and wind up with 2, or more, for free!
There are other reasons for dividing perennials. Some need to be rejuvenated while others have grown too large for their garden niche.
I love native plants. I love to grow them. I love to read about them. I love to preserve them and the wildlife they nourish.
I first learned about native plants and their importance when I studied to become a Master Gardener. The more I learned, the more I wanted to grow and promote them. One book that had a strong influence on me was Designing Gardens with Flora of the American East by Carolyn Summers.
But I have a confession to make, my plants aren’t all native. Continue reading Confessions of a “Native” Gardener