Spring Fever

With all the snow falling, I'm definitely craving fresh blooms.  Thank goodness for spring gardening catalogs.  Flipping through these catalogs gives me a fresh perspective on my garden.  Thankfully, I planted a great deal of perennials last year that hopefully survived the hot summer and cold winter, which means I shouldn't have to buy too much.  Given the spring arrival of Miss Petite Diva, I might be overly crazy thinking I'll have any time to look at my garden, let alone dig in it...but here I am dreaming and planning any way.  

Last year, I dove right into mulching and really didn't have a clue what I was getting myself into. It's a serious workout, so thanks dirt for the nice toned physique.  I was definitely planning on getting a partial truck load this year, but given the little Diva, I've opted to splurge!  The fabulous folks over at Lakeview Lawn Care are going to weed (woohoo) and mulch all my beds come early March.  While I'll miss the work out, I'll love looking at the quick result a team of landscapers can do!

So what else is in store for my beds this spring?

Astilbe-I've been wanting to add these plants to my garden for awhile and am thinking that might compliment my back hosta bed quite nicely. 

Gaillardia-A little flowery show for the front walk.

Herbs-My big spring project is to create an herb garden right outside my kitchen door and window.  I dorked out the other day and even made a sketch!  I picked up some fabulous lemon balm last year (the early inspiration) and plan to add basil, chives, lavender, and oregano.  More info on this project to come.

Window Boxes:  Last year, I added some cascading ivy to the 2 corners of each window box.  I left space in between for annuals (pansies at the moment).  I've picked a zinnia to grace them this spring/summer.  I hope they love their new home!

As always, I'll keep you posted as we thaw, the work begins and as Manning tries to thwart my plans!