Gardening Diva: Summer 2011 Updates

Before:  We inherited a backyard full of beds and weeds!

My gardening obsession started when we moved into Casa Diva, a little over 2 years ago.  It really took me by surprise.  I never thought I would care to dig into the sometimes tough ground and make room for pretty blooms.  I didn’t see myself spending hours killing weeds and churning compost, but here I am.   Mrs. Greenthumb I’m not, but I’m definitely learning.  

After:  It's still a work in progress with more sod and bushes to come, but a vast improvement. 

I’ve been rewarded the past 2 springs with returning favorites

We have lots of shade, which means plenty of space for hostas! This hosta type (Hosta Olive Bailey Langdon) is my absolute favorite as it grows large with it's beautiful leaves!

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Patriot Hosta is all over my yard and can really fill out.  Believe it or not, some of my hostas were confined to a window box before we moved them to their new home!

My favorite garden bed!  I've worked hard on the hosta and vinca border. It's really lush and beautiful right now. 

and tempting the fates with new ones.   

Astilbe:  I've 4 of these shade lovers for background interest in the hosta bed. 

Viburnum:  I've planted this shrub in a bed next to my backdoor. I'm going to call it the godmother bed as she was the reason for all the plantings! 

Another godmother bed plant: Caladium

Salvia: I've planted 2 different types of Salvia in the yard.  Hopefully, I can keep it alive!

I’m learning so much about what plants work where and readjusting when Mother Nature has a new plan for my yard.  This year I’m also working on a color scheme for the yard instead of willy-nilly picking out plants that I read about or just fall in love with the moment I see them.  Back in 2009, I wouldn’t have given any thought to garden symmetry, but here I am with a hot pink and purple garden oasis…or at least an oasis in the making.   

The beverage cart is decked out with purple verbena and hot pink geraniums! 

The ivy is a constant in my window boxes throughout the year.  I love how it cascades over to create more interest.  This season I've placed verbena in between for the color pop! 

I picked up some pillows to spruce up the patio table.  These pillows were made by the fabulous Paula and Erika at Etsy!  Be sure to check them out.

 I'm off to enjoy the patio until my next post!

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