Welcome to Cottage in the Court

#allthingsbeautiful

Iris – Ancestral Reminders in the Garden

By

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

Betty and Her Church Hat -Reflections Found in My Garden

By

Betty Corning clematis reminds me of Big Betty at church.

Betty Corning Clematis reminds me of Big Betty and the hats she wore to church. Big Betty was a lady who stood tall and sat in the front pews at Church, even with her bold Church hats on. I admired Betty due to her big hats, which always matched her outfits. Growing up, it was always exciting to see what color combination Betty would wear and what the hat would look like. They often had a statement flower strategically placed to make anyone notice. Other times, the flowers dangled off to one side or were in artfully arranged clusters. The hats always made Big Betty stand out amongst the parishioners.

There were a few displays using hats at the 2025 Philadelphia Flower Show. I found them quite interesting. It reminded me of the hats the women at Church donned on Sundays. Perhaps I should have been paying attention to the sermon. The colorful hats visible through the pews captured my heart. I found joy in watching the ladies stroll into the church service, knowing they were in their Sunday best with a hat to match.

Some of the hats I saw at the show reminded me of Sunday at church. Many of the ladies only wore understated hats. These hats hugged their heads and were worn in different ways. The traditional way to wear a hat was to sit it on their heads like a crown. Some ladies would tilt them to one side to be a little fancy.

Usually around Mother’s Day, the hats became bigger. At the yearly Convocation, all of the women wore hats and attire that were tasteful and runway-ready. I imagined that perhaps a secret seminar on Church Hat 101 had been held in advance. The brims became larger, had feathers, or were carefully curated hats that coordinated with their outfit of choice. Even today, many wonder what came first, the hat or the outfit?

This hat was an instant reminder of Big Betty at Church. In my imagination, Big Betty would come around the corner at any moment for her hat. She would pause in front of the vestibule window. Catching her reflection, adjusting the hat a smidgeon, Big Betty would royally stroll down the aisle for the perfect seat. I would gaze in awe at this regal woman in the perfect outfit with a tastefully coordinated hat to finish her look for the day.

Over the winter, I looked at endless catalogs to decide on a clematis. Clematis ‘Betty Corning’ caught my eye. The shape of the bloom reminded me of a Church ladies hat. Betty had some of the qualities I wanted to include in my garden. This medium climber has a sweet, fresh fragrance, which is always great in the garden. The small 2-inch flowers begin to bloom mid-summer and continue to bloom abundantly into early fall. The flowers hold their heads down as the vine reaches towards the sky, clutching the arbor along the way. I chuckle as I recall raising a finger and holding my head down, excusing myself from the Church service to go to the restroom. Sometimes, I would tiptoe out to meet my Grandpa to walk to get a block of ice.

Our gardens often capture memories of people, places, and sometimes even trends from the past. The downturned clematis bloom reminded me of Betty, a stately woman, and the glamorous hats she wore. Memories like this are dotted throughout my garden, allowing me to smile each time I walk through.

Do you have blooms in your garden that remind you to reflect and smile?

I patiently await the right time to plant Betty in the perfect spot, where her sweet scent will be carried on the breezes that flow through my garden.

Teri, Cottage in the Court

NOT AI-GENERATED

Garden Tourism is a Great Elixir

By

Garden tourism is the elixir we need when the world moves too fast. Autumn at Lewis Ginter was quite a treat.

Garden tourism is often experienced during the warmer months. Did you know that some of the most unique times in the garden happen when the garden is resting? It has been a bumpy start to a new year in many ways. Many people have logged on, tuned in, and are continually caught up in the erratic news cycle, we are missing out on healthier choices.

Going outside to see the garden or nature evolve is a life-changing experience. Watching buds swell, foliage burst from the ground, or experiencing how the light hits the garden can be memorable. These gifts from the garden might seem boring to some, however, allow me to elaborate.

On a recent walk at the United States Botanic Garden, I welcomed the distraction of the mid-winter garden. It was one of the first days I noticed the winter sky was lighter at 5:00 pm, meaning a new season was waiting in the wings. As I walked – no phone, no earbuds – around the garden, I could feel the energy of nature surrounding me. Even with the extremely low temperatures, I paused to see what was emerging from the earth. The evergreens popped throughout the landscape. A few shrubs showed exciting winter colors adding a range of colorful interest to an otherwise somber garden. There was also the opportunity to see how the weather affected plant material with the unexpected frigid temperatures. If I had been on my phone or in front of a TV, this experience would not have happened.

The Christmas Lights at Longwood Gardens was quite the treat and brought together a diverse group of garden aficionados.

Garden Tourism is a great way to learn about plants, plant combinations, and other noteworthy garden ideas. Even while traveling, it is a great way to see something different and, most likely, inspirational. I recently hosted a small group experience at Longwood Gardens to see the Christmas lights. It was an opportunity to escape, if only for a few hours.

One of my neighbors who loves decorating for Christmas was impressed with the decorations. It was the perfect opportunity for her to see a different way to include nature in her holiday decor. As she lingered at the back of the group, I noticed the glimmer in her eyes as she closely inspected each design. I noticed an occasional smile as she took mental notes on recreating some of the ideas. To see her reaction melted my heart. Knowing my neighbor, I know she will use some of the ideas in her home and garden this Christmas.

While I stalk the United States Botanic Garden, other gardens offer a different type of escape. A few that are seasonally noteworthy are – Enid A. Haupt Garden, Katherine Dulin Folger Rose Garden, and The United States Arboretum. Each of these gardens offers a different experience and a lesson – if you observe. Perhaps notice when the roses are pruned, what bulbs are emerging, and figure out what is so fragrant at this time of the year. The Mary Livingston Ripley Garden, Dumbarton Oaks, and Tudor Place are beautiful places to watch the seasons evolve.

I consider Hillwood Estate Museum and Garden, a ladies’ garden. Each area reimagines how Marjorie Merriweather Post might have wanted if she was entertaining or enjoying her garden today. The friendship garden is one of my favorite places to pause, sit and breathe. This garden continually evolves with a gorgeous cutting garden and expanded programming drawing in gardeners, historians, or those seeking an opportunity to have a light lunch in a beautiful garden. It is one of my regular gardens to enjoy in any season.

Maryland also offers great garden tourism experiences such as Brookside Gardens, Glenstone, McCrillis Gardens, Cylburn Arboretum, Rawlings Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and the Mount Washington Arboretum. I adore the intimacy found at the Rawlings Conservatory, as well as the convenience of Brookside. Glenstone offers a unique experience if you appreciate art in the garden and offers a terrific example of sustainable garden practices.

A terrific way to enjoy garden tourism in Virginia is to visit Greenspring Gardens, Lewis Ginter Gardens, or even Meadowlark Botanical Gardens. If you leave early, make time to enjoy downtown Richmond. The different areas offer great food, impactful art, historical displays, and great shopping. Exploring Richmond is a great idea for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

I encourage anyone reading this to put down the phone, turn off the TV, and create your unique garden tourism experience. Going outside in a garden elevates the spirit, provides a healthy distraction, and offers inspiration on what you can try in your green space.

Now to figure out which garden I will explore this weekend. I sense something beautiful is blooming in a garden near me.

Teri, Cottage in the Court

Houseplants – Celebrating the Great Green Indoors

By

Houseplants bring us joy and deserve a day of their own.

Since 2012, many houseplant aficionados have had a reason to celebrate National Houseplant Appreciation Day. Consider this an official holiday for those who appreciate indoor plants. The Gardener’s Network recognized the popularity of houseplants and the joy they provide to plant lovers everywhere. January 10th is certainly a day that arrives when we need it most.

Some houseplants are good for many different skill levels. Longwood Gardens is a great place to explore the world of houseplants.

Some people lack confidence in selecting the right plant for their lifestyle. Busy, non-stop days require plants that need minimal care. Every houseplant has basic needs from proper lighting, temperature, proper type of soil, fertilizer, and water. Proper Researching the essential needs of any plant is crucial for plant parent success. It is also important to identify why you want to have plans in your home.

Are you seeking plants to decorate your home, add a focal point, or clean the air? Would selecting an exotic plant fill a void or provide something to talk to, love, and care for? Do you need only one (unheard of) or would a diverse cluster of plants with varied textures, heights, or leaves add artistic flair to your home? Consider these questions when inviting a houseplant to live with you.

From colorful blooms to leaf shapes and textures, houseplants bring us much joy!

I asked Samantha Speight, REWILD Marketing Manager/Cabin John, why we should appreciate houseplants. “Houseplants connect us not only to nature but to our community. They serve as a reminder that with patience comes beautiful growth.” This rings true and is quite a wise statement. Patience is essential when one desires healthy houseplants.

Why should people consider celebrating National Houseplant Appreciation Day at REWILD? “We have a diverse selection of houseplants for all skill levels,” Samantha stated confidently, “We also offer workshops, a variety of plant services, and a team that is passionate, and knowledgeable about houseplants.”

Houseplant aficionados can find plants anywhere …even in Paris. This plant shop whispered to me as I headed to Notre Dame…and I listened.

A good houseplant shop has items for good plant parenting such as soil, tools, fertilizers, and more. Cultivating a relationship with a knowledgeable staff is also important. It helps when you have a resource to answer questions such as, “Why are my Monstera leaves turning brown?” or “How do I water my Bromeliad?”

Remember the seventies? Many plants that were as popular as disco, are even more popular today. How many people had at least one Snakeplant, Peace Lily, or Pothos? My grandmother cherished these plants. She could tell you where they came from, what relative they represented, or if it was from a dish garden. These plants required repotting when they outgrew their confined spaces. Family members passed these down from generation to generation. Over time, the stories of these plants and their journey changed.

I have two 8-foot tall Dracenea that my Dad grew in the living room in my childhood home. Placed in front of the picture window, these plants provided a living privacy screen. My mom made sure they were healthy and tuned regularly for even growth. My Dad and I found joy when we took cuttings for propagation in the spring. Perhaps I will consider celebrating National Houseplant Appreciation Day by cleaning off the leaves and watering them deeply. At the right time, when they are actively growing, I will take cuttings and make more plants.

Orchids are long bloomers in draft-free spaces. With proper care, they can rebloom.

Consider adding a Peace Lilly, Spider plant, or Snake plant to purify the air in your home. Aloe vera plants are also great to have on hand for cuts or burns in the kitchen. They are also architecturally beautiful. Easy to care for, these are easy for beginning plant lovers to grow. Many believe the Jade plant attracts abundance and wealth. The Jade plant was always the perfect housewarming plant. Great for sharing, a cutting makes a great gift. This plant helps in promoting good air quality. There are many new cultivars of these plants, each offering leaf variegation and growth habits uniquely different than what we are familiar with.

This plant shop in Paris was a delight to enter. Smelling the freshly watered soil was perfect on a cold winter’s day.

Some people like blooms on their houseplants. I enjoy bodacious leaves. Monsteras have a special place in my heart and home. I love how my Monstera has taken over a corner of my living room. I recently cut it back from the top as it touched the ceiling. Placing it in a glass vase, I was curious to see what would happen. On a recent Sunday, I noticed roots emerging from the fresh-cut stem. I grinned from ear to ear. Sometimes the risks we take can bring us such joy.

When I wondered what plant made Samantha happy? “Alocasia Jacklyn is one of my favorite plants.” Samantha exclaimed, “The whole plant is a statement from leaf shape to texture. I also love the corm growth habits.” Something tells me this might be a plant I need for my collection.

One perfect way to celebrate National Houseplant Appreciation Day would be a visit to a caring, reputable houseplant shop such as REWILD. Samantha assured me “We are always ready to help find the perfect plant and pot combination.”

I think I will visit REWILD to look at their plants and accessories. Perhaps I can find something to enhance my plant story…like another Monstera.

Wiping down the leaves of Dad’s Dracena and considering where I will make cuts to propagate and share.

Teri, Cottage in the Court

Kindness Grows In A Community

By

Kindness is often overlooked as we move through life. We expect life to happily happen. We know there will be good times and bad. Life can be tricky. We are rarely ready for the unexpected. It takes a loving family and the community’s kindness to help with the healing process.

February 28, 2010, is a day that I will always remember. My niece, Alexis Diana Speight lost her life to childhood cancer. At Thanksgiving dinner in 2009, Lexi complained of a tummy ache. The cancer moved at warp speed to take her from all who loved her. Children’s National Medical Center became home to Lexi’s intimate little family. Petr and Cyndi were by Lexi’s side through it all. Lexi could not have had better, attentive parents We continue to support my little brother and his young family emotionally.. After Lexi transitioned, the kindness of others grew a community.

Laps for Lexi (a 501 (c)(3) was born. This charitable organization’s goal was to raise money to support research for childhood cancer and a scholarship at the Sandy Springs Friends School. The kindness and generosity of a loving community pulled together to raise enough money to celebrate achieving a goal honoring Lexi. The Sandy Springs Friends School was Lexi’s school. For 13 years, Laps for Lexi was a good reason for many in the community to come together for a day of remembrance.

On November 1, at Children’s National Hospital, we celebrated the installation of the Lexi Speight Chair of Pediatric Oncology. Dr. AeRang Kim, M.D., Ph.D. is now the first recipient of The Lexi Speight Chair in Pediatric Oncology. The opportunity for a new way to treat solid cancerous tumors is now under the purview of Dr. Kim. After meeting Dr. Kim, I knew the research would take on cancer headfirst. On November 1, as we honored Lexi, childhood cancer has a new warrior. Dr. Kim is working to find a way to give other parents hope and more children the opportunity to beat this awful disease.

Not willing to give up, my sister-in-love Cyndi, my youngest brother Petr, and my niece Samantha became activists against cancer. With the love and support of an entire community, an effort of love to help other children with cancer became bigger than life. It is the best way to honor Lexi’s name. Lexi’s transition has forever changed our family. Friendships have been solidified, and the effort to honor Lexi has bolstered support from local businesses and more.

That mission was to show how Kindness grows in a community. Kindness goes a long way and the minimal effort it takes should not go unnoticed. Simply practicing kindness is easy. Did you know we recently observed National Kindness Day? It was the perfect day to commit to being better people in our communities and to strangers along the way.

At a time when we need kindness to be part of our daily random acts, consider looking around and making an effort to promote kindness in your community. Many people might be going through a crisis and not share it. Some might carry a heavy burden for many reasons that might not be obvious. Did you know a simple smile could be the seed to start a positive interaction?

Sowing seeds of kindness can show you care. A smile, a note, or a nod, might just be the acknowledgment needed at the right time. Give it a try. I carry seeds of kindness everywhere I go. I urge you to do the same.

Are you sowing seeds of kindness in your community?

Teri, Cottage in the Court