Oriental Lilies
One year ago, I began planning the labyrinth in earnest. And now, while predominantly green, vestiges of color have shown up all summer. From the Oriental Lilies and the white daisies from Carol, to the lovely soft yellows of the Kramer Flower Farm Lilies, to the variegated Solomon Seal from Mary W and the tough native Solomon Seal from Hands in Harmony, to the large leafed hostas from Wendee and Les, to the asters from Joanne Stoddard colors and textures assert themselves.
Black-eyed Susan, Sun dial, labeling stakes, Honkin'Rock
Successes include finding homes for Honkin’ Rock, Sparkly Rock, Welcome Rock and amultitude of smaller rocks like the Quarry rock Rich brought home and the collection of rocks from the Pattersons. Some rocks are still in transition and occasionally someone picks one up and lays it down somewhere else in the labyrinth. Another success is consistently labeling the plants with solid sticks that Rich cuts up for me. Now, to catch up on my map of the labyrinth! I have plenty of pictures that show the seasons and how I have done certain projects. The domestic grasses dominate, but I have kept them down some. Plus, when they are taller, they hide the emerging forbs – not bad strategy as it is harder for the woodchuck to find them. The deer are more cautious about the labyrinth for two reasons. One is the stinky egg spray I routinely apply.
The energy from the Magnolia tree fills me up and inspires me when I am out of sorts. an irony is that we have wondered how magnolias, which are southern species, do so well this far north. Well, “made in China” says it all. What are grown in Iowa are a hybrid developed in China! Grrr. Ah, well, It’s energy is fabulous.
Energy from the Magnolia Tree, the stepables in the entry way.
The bird bath reminds me to keep the water element fresh. To recycle the dehumidifier water, I apply to the more tender Scottish Moss in the entry and it is working! Some on death’s door have revived. So, even in the slower summer time planting I have accomplished a lot. As autumn comes I will seek more plants and add to the diversity of the seedlings in the surrounding area – full of prairie grasses and forbs. We will gather again in fall and scatter with sand to weigh them down.
1080 Labyrinth 