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Iris – Ancestral Reminders in the Garden

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Iris found on family land in South Carolina reminds me to acknowledge my ancestors.

Iris are something I look forward to returning in my garden. Observing the spear-like foliage emerge from a non-descript rhizome, gives me hope. At some point a stem emerges, evolving into a beautiful bloom. The Iris, carefully planted in my garden are quite sacred, at least to me.

Found at our family homestead in South Carolina, this particular Iris was not in bloom. I remember noticing a stand of spear like foliage, right at the edge of the woods line. With Great Aunt Lucy deceased, there were not many relatives alive nearby. In my mind, this plant needed to come home with me.

I knew I wanted some type of plant material as a memory. A plant to remind me of this humble house at the side of the road and a plant that thrived with minimal maintenance. There were two blue hydrangeas that flanked the front porch. At the time, I did not know how to prune them to a size that would allow me to fly at least one of them back to Maryland. I looked around to see what else was manageable to dig and transport. This clump of spear like foliage whispered, “please take me with you…”

Not sure if one clump would be enough, I gathered a large clump which had three clusters of foliage. Gently, I wrapped it in damp newspaper, placed it in a plastic bag, and tucked it in my suitcase. One thing I didn’t want to do was leave it behind or lose it. For safe keeping, I wrapped the bag in soiled clothing, which served as a cushion.

As I flew home, I wondered if it would live. More importantly, I wondered what color it would bloom. My parents had purple Iris in the garden. It didn’t take much urging for my Mom to share a story or two about the significance of the purple Iris. A purple Iris was in her corsage for prom. My Dad gently placed it on her wrist. The color purple reminded this loving couple of their romance which started at Cardoza High School. Purple and white are the colors for Cardoza High School.

Placing this plant in the proper space was important. I did not want this bloom to go unnoticed in my garden. Making certain the basic needs for this Iris to thrive and multiply was key. The soil could not be too rich or too damp, This plant would need 6 – 8 hours of sun in a well draining spot. It was also important to provide ample air circulation for this rhizome.

I placed it at the front of my garden. Each time spring, I wanted to acknowledge my South Carolinian roots. It is because of them, I am here and thriving. I did not know what color this plant would bloom. This was a part of the intrigue in uprooting and transplanting this plant found on family soil.

Much to my surprise, the Iris bloomed the following spring. It was white with a yellow center. I love researching plants and how to grow them. Did this rhizome have a name, I wondered? There were references to a white Iris found planted in gardens and cemeteries throughout the South. Many called this Iris a Cemetery Iris. This plant symbolized faith, hope, sympathy, or passionate feelings. There are some who believe the white Iris is signifies a fresh start.

If you believe in Greek mythology, Iris was a Goddess who bridged the gap between Gods and humans. Many believe, due to the diversity of colors when in bloom, this perennial ties heaven and earth together.

At the Oakland Cemetery in Atlanta, I found many gravesites with white Iris flanking the headstones.

It makes sense that an alternative name for this plant is the Cemetery Iris. I was recently in Atlanta and visited the Historic Oakland Cemetery with my friend, Abra Lee. As we walked through the many headstones of common people and even a few celebrities, I noticed this Iris was a common fixture, especially in the African American section. I wondered if the sentiment of embarking in a new journey in heaven was part of the reason for inclusion amidst gravesites?

Some sayings we might never find out if they are fact or fiction. One thing I know for sure, this Iris will always be a part of my garden family. I will pass it down to the next generation …even if it is not purple.

Do you have plants that have been handed down or that have a familial story?

I will lovingly select and prepare a rhizome for my nephew James. As a new homeowner, he is embarking upon his first garden journey. He will need a purple Iris to share the story of his grandparents love affair. I believe James will also need a white Iris to acknowledge his aunt’s romance with her garden. What a terrific way to symbolize a new journey in his life, as a husband and soon to be father.

Perhaps I will find this Iris for my nephew…

Teri, Cottage in the Court

Unexpected Game-changers for A Changing Climate

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Unexpected game-changers for a changing climate are appreciated when conditions are warmer than anticipated.

(photo courtesy of First Editions /Bailey Nursery)

Unexpected game-changers were exactly what we needed this summer. We experienced a season that was consistently hot and dry. With an ever-changing climate, selecting plants for the garden was a greater challenge than anticipated.

This year, many gardeners carefully read plant tags, and chose plant combinations bred to thrive, all while wiping sweat from their brows and hoping for the best. How many plants would thrive on minimal care, infrequent watering, and weeks of rising temperatures? Some gardeners found it difficult to figure out when it was cool enough to venture outside to maintain and water their existing garden…or if it was worth it.

Cavano’s Perennials in Kingsville, Maryland had a nursery Open House earlier this Spring. David Culp was there to offer tips on plants that were a part of the Brandywine Cottage Collection. Trust is an essential part of supporting a collection of plants that do well under the watchful eye of an esteemed Horticulturalist. I consider David a friend whose plant experience I trust. He shared which plants I should try from his collection. When I departed, my car was filled with Cavano’s perennials and even a few annuals. I was one happy gardener who knew which plant would go in specific areas.

One shrub from First Editions and two plants from the Brandywine Cottage Collection brought me joy each time I entered my garden. Despite the heat, I wanted to see what would thrive. Plants that endure the heat and humidity commonly found in the DMV are plants we should share.

VITEX QUEEN BEE

Unexpected long-season blooms are just one reason to consider growing Queen Bee in your garden.

I have been a fan of Vitex or the Chaste Tree for quite some time. The blue blooms and its ability to host a bee party leave a smattering of drunken bees throughout the bush. Vitex Queen Bee is an appropriate name for this beautiful, easy to grow shrub.

I can honestly say I am fascinated with the foliage AND the bloom. This year, I am thankful for the intermittent water that Mother Nature shared in August. The drought tolerance of this beautiful shrub is amazing! Queen Bee doesn’t let too much time go by without pushing out the cleanest leaves and stunning blue blooms. Generally, Queen Bee will top out at 6 feet but can get wider. I plan on minimizing her girth by trying to use the branches in floral displays – even if they last just one day. Floating the foliage in a bowl or bird bath can also make quite a statement, especially when adding assorted colorful blooms.

Queen Bee Vitex is a shrub that is not shy about taking up space and thrives without much attention. In a sunny spot, this shrub provides effortless beauty, brilliant blue blooms, and a bee party.

My dilemma is how many Vitex can one have? I think three is a great number…I can hear the musical buzzing now. Stay tuned as I introduce a few perennials that brought me joy even in the heat of summer.

Teri, Cottage in the Court

Fireflies- Dancing Beneficial’s of the Garden

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Fireflies are the beneficial disco dancers of the evening garden.

Fireflies are the beneficial disco dancers of the night. Sometimes, it’s the simple things that bring me joy. We hear so much about the decline of beneficial insects- including the fireflies or, as we called them – lightning bugs. As children, we danced around them at night and dodged them as they lit up in flight.

Growing up in Washington, DC, summer nights, outside our childhood home were always filled with activities and laughter. We ran around with found containers attempting to catch the fireflies dancing in the nighttime sky. My brother, Jimmy, would catch one in between his hands. I just knew it would burn his palms, and I would ask, “Jimmy, does it hurt when the light touches your hand?”

He quietly answered no, then told me to hold out my hand. Always encouraging me to face my fears, Jimmy had me cup my hands, as he had done. Reaching up, he captured a firefly and gently placed this dancer of the night into my palms. I felt it flutter, light up to a subtle glow, and smiled. I had done something I never imagined I would do. Something as simple as holding a firefly was monumental to me. After a brief moment, we released our lightning bugs and continued our game.

As I walked Precious one evening, I noticed hundreds of fireflies waiting for me to perform. It was as if I were a guest at Nature’s Disco Party I’m so glad my neighbors continue to mow a little high, edge, and blow the sidewalks. Every once in a while, new neighbors will enlist the services of a lawn care company. Many people do not know or even remember sitting outside at night. Breathing in the night air, and witnessing Nature’s Disco Party is a testament to simpler times. The fireflies, dancing to their beat, were shining brightly, reminding me of simpler times and their significance to the cycle of nature.

Fireflies are good for our gardens. This beneficial beetle loves snails, grubs, and worms. Providing a moist area, woodland setting, or a place under tall tree canopies, encourages fireflies to gravitate to this area. Provide a slightly unkempt area for procreation. By creating a naturalistic setting, these nighttime dancers will be quite happy. If you have a pine tree, most likely you will see Fireflies in abundance. Pine trees are the perfect trees for fireflies looking for a new home.

Many Native plants we have in our gardens will attract Fireflies. Solidago, Asters, Coreopsis, Rudbeckia, and other native species of plants are sure to bring the nighttime party to your garden. If you want to attract more fireflies into your garden – consider planting a few tall grasses along the perimeter of your lawn, mowing your lawn a little higher, and trying to avoid or minimize the use of pesticides. Consider adding a water feature in your garden to attract beneficial insects.

Many homeowners, and community associations, find it hard to live with anything less than a perfectly manicured garden. Consider creating a micro-hotel for a few beneficial insects. Stack a few large limbs, medium-sized branches, or even old firewood at the rear of the garden. Add some pine needles or mulch to create the perfect habitat for this much-loved living nightlight of nature. Remember to do what you can to invite fireflies to thrive in your yard and consider it home.

The perfect time to see fireflies is at dusk. Did you know if you turn off your security light, and go outside into the garden, a dance party of fireflies will begin if the conditions are right? Just remember, they don’t hurt but help our environment. The memories of seeing the fireflies hover near the water’s edge at the Isaac Walton League near my childhood home, brings a smile to my face. Waiting for dusk and the dance party in my garden, Teri, Cottage in the Court (NOT AI Generated – Generated from my heart…)

Grounding – Rituals of the Garden

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Grounding is a ritual which calms the spirit allowing one to be present in the moment.

Grounding is an act of connecting with the earth for many people who garden. This is a ritual I have practiced for years. I was introduced to the act of grounding, while living in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Much needed peace and healing , was discovered in my garden, with a bit of advice from Miss Maude. My world was changing, and I needed sage advice. An older gardener I knew, Miss Maude, befriended me at a Central Rappahannock Master Gardener event. A fast friendship developed and she shared a secret with me.

One day Miss Maude could sense my unsettled spirit. Holding my hands, she offered words of wisdom andadvice. “Teri, I want you to try something. When you feel unbalanced, unsure, or sad, go into your garden. Take off your shoes, allowing your feet to have direct contact with the soil. Stand still, empty your mind, and be open to receiving positive thoughts. Notice the feeling of the earth beneath your feet. Allow yourself to be present in the moment. Do this in the morning, to see how you feel.” Little did I know, the art of grounding would change my life.

Honestly, I assumed Miss Maude was having a moment. I am certain that most people have a seasoned person in their life who offers a bit of advice. Sometimes this advice might seem a little cutting edge or unrealistic. We often use the advice as a tool to say – ok…old wives tale. I am not sure why Miss Maude’s words seemed different on this particular day.

Contemplation Corner was what I called an area in my Virginia garden where I had privacy and found peace. Every morning after putting my daughters on the bus, I wandered to this sacred space and began my grounding ritual. I stood under the large overhanging oak tree and took my shoes off. My non-judgmental audience consisted of the emerging Hosta, Begonias, and Epimedium, quietly watching this act of being in the moment. The release of inner doubt and anxiety disappeared. Miss Maude had prescribed a dose of wisdom from the ancestors.

She explained this was a common ritual amongst farmers and gardeners back in the days of her youth. The Elders would use this practice to stay connected with the land, to pray for a successful garden, and to calm their inner spirit. It is a way of being present with the earth. Grounding helps with self-awareness and a balanced approach to life – with many ups and downs.

My experience with grounding has been life-altering. Now I live and garden in Maryland. It was important for me to create a space specifically for a grounding ritual in my garden. Choosing a spot near my beloved Camellias, seemed to be the perfect place for this intentional ritual. In the summer, I often find a quiet, off the beaten path beach. Strolling on the sand allows me to feel the coolness between my toes and under the soles of my feet. In the winter, I merely place my hands on the earth. This ritual helps me weather any storm that blows my way. There is always somewhere to subject my hands on bare earth or to touch a grassy spot. Embracing the art of grounding, allows me to receive the day with an open mind. Accepting the newness of each moment is a gift.

Is grounding a common ritual in your garden? I encourage every Gardener to create a sacred space, in a quiet area of the garden, bare the soles of your feet (or your hands), and be present in the moment. If you aren’t a gardener, consider the art of grounding. It just might becme a ritual in your life.

Perhaps a moment of grounding by each of us can un-tilt this tilted world.

Miss Maude is one who I miss dearly. Sitting in her garden, soaking up the wisdom she imparted with every visit. I cherish the gift she unknowingly shared at a vvery imprtant time oin my life. The powerful gift of grounding continues to be a part of my life.

Grounding with intention, as I anticipate our next season.

Teri, Cottage in the Court

Grateful for the Garden

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Grateful for the garden is an understatement as I consider the gift the garden shares. Visiting Northview allowed me a few moments to reflect.

Being grateful is an emotion that is often overlooked. As gardeners, we are elated when that particular bud opens into bloom. Satisfaction is found when we eat that first homegrown tomato from the garden. The sweet heat from a Shishito pepper surprises our tastebuds and reminds us that the next one could be hotter or not. No matter the circumstance, being grateful should be a part of our daily existence.

I recently read a book, Harper Counts Her Blessings. This book made me reflect on how we can move throughout our day without reflecting on exactly what we are thankful for. This is a great book for parents and grandparents to have on hand when offering up a simple lesson about being grateful.

Jenny Rose Carey is a fellow garden writer. I was introduced to her first book, Glorious Shade, at a Garden Writers event a few years ago. We share a love of a few things like the color pink, as well as shade gardens. After reading this book, I knew a visit was imminent. We discussed a visit and then the period of unexpected pausing hit. When GardenComm International‘s Region 2 announced an in-person meeting, Northview was a featured garden, I knew this garden was calling me.

THANKFUL FOR THE HISTORY

For the past 25 years, Jenny and Gus have reimagined Northview into not just their home, but a popular place for garden aficionados around the world to visit. Thanks to Wilmer Atkinson for keeping such good records to document the journey of Northview. Mr. Atkinson was the founder and editor of the Farm Journal. When he acquired the land, it was just over 150 acres. There are trees on the property that provide glorious shade and date back to the days when Mr. Atkinson planted and beautified the grounds.

As with many perennials, over time the land Mr. Atkinson called home was parceled off and sold. Today, Northview is just under five acres and includes a divinely beautiful carriage house. As I sat in the carriage house, I imagined how thankful Jenny Rose Carey must be. The carriage house is well-lit, surrounded by walls of great garden books, a fireplace, and a kitchenette…all in the midst of the garden. I am grateful to have enjoyed a few moments in the room where Jenny writes.

A GRATEFUL GATHERING

Northview is not just another beautiful garden. It is a working garden, a teaching garden, as well a the perfect environment for experimentation. Using minimal watering techniques, and using the right plant in the right places, Jenny has curated whimsical places throughout the garden to pause.

Pausing to see what plants Jenny has included embracing the local wildlife and seasonal plantings which fall victim to the same wildlife as they need nutrition. These living examples are all a part of the lesson plan found at Northview. Armed with a delightful Head Gardener, Hanna von Schlegell, and Joe Giampa, a local artist and carpenter, Jenny has all the help