Erika Shank of Amagansett, New York, sent these images of her garden as it awakens for the spring:

I garden in close proximity to the ocean, which keeps the temperatures much cooler this time of the year. On top of it, we experienced a very cold March and April. The last snowstorm was on April 2. It felt like winter was never going to leave. However, even though much later than a year ago . . . bulbs, plants, foliage started to emerge better than ever. The natural cycle of growing is not to be stopped, ready to shine! Our patience has been rewarded by exuberant blooms like Prunus subhirtella, which has never flowered like this before!

So I am thrilled to witness the start of a new season. A feast for the eye and refreshment for the soul! Can’t wait to see how the peonies will perform this year.

Front garden with white masses of star magnolia (Magnolia stellata, Zones 5–9) in bloom in the background.

Magnolia stellata close up. The numerous narrow petals give this plant the common name of star magnolia.

Front walk with dark hellebore (Helleborus orientalis, Zones 4–8) flowers and contrasting light-colored daffodils.

Narcissus ‘Salome’ is one of the pink daffodils, which can be inconsistent in color. The best pink tones (as seen here!) develop when they have a little light shade and cool temperatures. Another benefit of this long delayed, cool spring.

Emerging foliage of Ligularia dentata ‘Brit Marie Crawford’ (purple-leaved ligularia, Zones 4–8).

Prunus subhirtella (Higan cherry, Zones 4–8) puts on a show. This plant apparently loved the cold spring, as it is blooming like never before. Is there anything more cheerful than bright pink flowers against a rich blue sky?

Wood anemones (Anemone blanda, Zones 4–8) blooming in shades of blue and white.

Primula kisoana (Zones 5–10) is an easy-to-grow primrose for shade.

Primula kisoana seeding itself among the hellebores.

Primula elatior (oxlip primrose, Zones 5–8) is one of the wild ancestors of the colorful hybrid primroses. The flowers may be smaller than those of its more common decedents, but it has its own grace and is much more vigorous and reliably perennial in most climates.

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