I was finally able to get out in the gardens today for a comprehensive tour. The fact that it was sunny and in the mid 50 degrees F was certainly a factor. I saw some early color like the winter aconites (Eranthis hyemalis) seen both above and below. Snowdrops (Galanthus sp.) seen further below were also blooming in abundance. Unfortunately, deer poop could also be found in abundance. The Holiday Light Show (HLS) has almost disappeared from the gardens after the work done today although just a couple larger cords and some odds and ends remain for retrieval over the next week or two. Big John and Larry have been working on this project for over 10 weeks!
We had a nice turnout of volunteers as well. Ron R. and Peg were out helping tidy and clean up in the gardens. Kathy P. did a nice job sweeping the gazebo garden patio and helped tidy up the woodland walk garden. Terry helped John with HLS tasks. Gary B. and Dr. Gredler painted while Dave, Vern, Ron Y. and Marv B. worked on building some Adirondack chairs that will be for sale shortly from our Cottage Garden Gallery. Dick H. and Maury worked on a project and Gary spent significant time on preparing new labels for the garden including interpretation for the new Heirloom Garden and many plant labels. Jim and the RECAPPERS did a nice job continuing our tidying efforts this afternoon. We also saw Rollie, Polly, Maryam, Joe B. and many others today.
Terry, Ron R., Larry H. and Big John (left to right) lowering a “Tower of Power” (HLS element)
snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis) seen above
double snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis ‘Flore Pleno’) seen above
the colorful coralbark willow (Salix alba subsp. vitellina ‘Britzensis’)
the mosses are greening up nicely (above and below)
‘Gold Coin’ Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris)
‘Hillside Winter Gold’ white pine (Pinus strobus)
‘Carsten’s Wintergold’ mugo pine (Pinus mugo)