Today we’re taking another trip back in time to gardens at their summer peak. This time it’s with Linda Skyler, who sent in these photos of her Bainbridge Island garden in Washington State. She says that they had a lovely warm summer, but a dry one. Despite the dry weather, her gardens look pretty amazing, something she credits to her thick mulch, which conserves moisture and solves a lot of weed problems.
An imposing clump of Ligularia ‘The Rocket’ (Zones 4–8). This perennial—with its huge, beautifully toothed leaves—sends up these huge spikes of yellow flowers than can reach 5 feet. Growing best in cool, lightly shaded conditions, this is a high drama plant!
An enormous potted hosta (possibly the variety ‘Sum and Substance’, Zones 3–8) catches the sun and looks like it is glowing. Bright, yellow-green plants like these are a great way to brighten up a dark, shady spot.
A brilliant orange Asiatic lily (Lilium hybrid, Asiatic group, Zones 4–9) glowing against a backdrop of rich greens. The tall foliage in the background is honey bush (Melianthus major, Zones 8–12).
It is amazing how much color you can get from just hostas, here showing blue-green leaves contrasting starkly with yellow and white variegated selections. Ferns provide an added level of textural contrast.
Nothing says summer like hydrangeas! Here a huge bigleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla, Zones 6–9) is just loaded down with flowers.
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Comments
So relaxing to see these combinations of foliage and flowers together. It's just so lush & mature and no empty spaces...and all your plants have grown together to make a beautiful tapestry, and mingle well with the existing trees. I really like this garden...Nice work.
that glowing (possible) 'Sum and Substance' is glorious - and a perfect illustration of the myriad ways in which hostas shine.
Looking at your lovely Summer garden really lifted a grey, gloomy day! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks so much- taking a break from cooking, and enjoying your beautiful photos. Happy Thanksgiving!
How lovely!
Wow, I love your gardens! Thanks for sharing.
Linda, your garden and talent continue to amaze me! Is there anything you cannot grow? Wish we were neighbors.
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