Late Summer Blooms

Oh how I love to see beautiful blooms in my garden!

After a few good rain days and temperatures staying below 100, my garden is seeing a bit of a resurgence this August!

For those of you in cooler climates it might be hard to believe that temperatures in the 90 degree Fahrenheit range wouldn’t promote wilted plants.  All I can say is that if you live in Texas, you  have to find the toughest plants that can withstand the heat! 

Growing up in Minnesota, I was used to seeing a lot of lush greenery in the summer.  Big, full trees, and vibrant cottage gardens.  My grandma was an avid gardener of both flowers and vegetables and she always had beautiful and tasty things growing outside her doorstep.  And, my mom is a fantastic container gardener.  She is a whiz at creating beautiful potted arrangements.

I have experienced a lot of trial and error since I attempted gardening here in Texas.  I have killed more plants than I care to admit. And, as a result, I have come to learn what is and what is not a “drought tolerant” plant, what is a spring vs. a summer plant (things I grew in the summer up north are spring plants here), and what can and what cannot tolerate full sun here in zone 7a.  The nursery tag or plant books written by authors in other climates will not keep you from killing a plant or two!

So, I am particularly pleased that at the end of this August I have more living plants than dead ones!  And, things may not be as green as they are up in the northern states, but I’ll celebrate my victory nonetheless.  For me, there are few things in life more joyful than looking at a beautiful flower in full bloom. 

Yes, keeping up a garden is a lot of work and, I must confess, that I do slack off and don’t tend it as much as I should.  But, when I look out my window to see the beauty of nature in all it’s glory, I feel peace, joy and gratitude for life.  And, I am glad for all the hours spent on my knees digging in the dirt.  These blooms are all the thanks I need.