My garden Spring 2011

My Garden

Since returning to customer service at ILT Vignocchi a year ago, I have been short on time to "piddle around" (technical term) in my yard. On the other hand, I'm getting loads of ideas for my yard from working with my customers!! Right now I'm focused on annual flower selection.

For those of you who order flowers from a wholesale grower know...pansies, impatiens and geraniums are the tip of the iceberg in terms of selection. Additionally, those annual flowers have almost become dirty words to customers who are constantly looking for something more unique.

After having designed my customers annuals for 2011 I am now left with trying to select varieties for my home containers, which is proving to be quite the challenge. I've stumbled across too many varieties that have become fast favorites. Although I have more containers than I should, I have only so much room. Plus I don't want it to look like the flower fairy threw up in them. I'm a fan of less is more.

So of the more, these are some of my favorites that will make an appearance at my house:

Cordyline Exotica: I'm not a tropical girl...that sounded funny. What I mean is they aren't my favorite. But this one is mezmorizing with streaks of white an shades of pink celebrating its thick leaves. Perfect for a spot that's as hot as an oven.

Echeveria Peacockii: A blue / grey succulent that although barely grows in a season, add amazing texture and a little whimsy.

Pink Dragonwing Begonia: I know it's not new, but it's spectacular and I cannot live without its constant color on arching branches that thrives in any exposure!!

Gomphrena Fireworks or Gnome Purple: Cool little purple balls that float above neat foliage. People will ask you, what is that.

Euphorbia: Why go with typical potato vine when you can have this pillow like plant dusted with tiny white flowers draping down your container.

I could go on and on and probably on a little further, but those are my picks for now.

A tip for you when once you select and plant your flowers. Don't forget to water!!! No flower will do well and reach its potential without a little drink, at least every other day. And remember, the hotter and windier it gets. The more they will require.