It's been a tough week. Someone I love landed in the hospital quite unexpectedly. Things are looking up now and I'm grateful for that.
When I'm worried and feel unable to do anything to put things right, I find myself pulled into the garden. Not that I'm able to exercise a lot of control there either, much as I might try. Nature makes the rules and we have to work with them. But, despite the fact that much of what happens in the garden is outside my control, being there focuses my attention and forces me to adapt to the circumstances facing me. This week, with temperatures jumping into the 90s and the humidity plummeting to 1% according to my little garden weather station, the emphasis was on getting plants the water they need to cope with those conditions.
The slope at the back of our property doesn't have an automated irrigation system. All watering is done by hand. Although I've used drought tolerant plants there, most have been in the ground no more than a year so the area needs help when temperatures climb and our Santa Ana winds blow. That area got attention first. Even at 9AM, the area was already sun scalded and dry.
 |
| View from the top section of the slope looking down |
 |
| Centranthus ruber, Oenothera speciosa, and Euphorbia 'Dean's Hybrid' surround a fig tree |
 |
| View from the bottom of the slope looking back up |
Half of my "dry garden" at the top of the slope also has no irrigation system so that was the next priority.
 |
| Top of the stairway heading back into the dry garden |
 |
| Guava tree surrounded by more Centranthus ruber, more Oenothera speciosa, and Phormiums |
 |
| View of the pathway that leads through the dry garden down to the stairway that bisects the slope |
I managed a few hours in the garden just watering and dead-heading flowers. Yet that small amount of time helped to center me. An old sign I've had for some 20+ years carries a reminder of the important role the garden plays in my life.
Thank you for this post. I have had a rough two weeks as my brother-in-law has been diagnosed with metastasized cancer and is now home with hospice care. His large family has been visiting, which is a good thing. I was able to weed my sister's long strawberry patch yesterday before the rain came. It's so helpful to connect with all that earth energy. Your garden is so beautiful. I will be picking up some ideas from you, I can tell. Best wishes and prayers to you and your loved one.
ReplyDeleteBarbara H.
Thank you for your good wishes, Barbara. As in many things, dealing with a serious illness is 1 step forward and 2 steps back but we're hopeful. I'm sorry to hear of your brother-in-law's condition but I'm sure he and your sister appreciate and support you and his family are providing. I offer my own best wishes at this difficult time.
DeleteI take refuge in my garden, too. I find I can cry or laugh there without judgement or explanation. Your garden is looking very pretty. I am surprised about the 1% humidity. Harsh conditions to have to work with, and (for me at least) hand watering is never as effective as it seems.
ReplyDeleteIt's too bad tears don't work as effective irrigation, isn't it?
DeleteYes, the garden is most definitely a refuge. Even non gardeners seem to relax when they sit on my patio in the height of summer.
ReplyDeleteFor hot and dry, you've managed to coax alot of color out of that landscape. We're in a drought situation here which is extremely unusual for this time of year. I don't have any sort of irrigation here and have been spending way more time than I'd like hand watering new plantings and transplants. Tomorrow I may break out the sprinklers. Mother Nature, it seems can toss some mean curve balls.
We've had 40% of our "normal" rainfall this year(if there really is any such thing as normal rainfall anymore). The wildfires we're already experiencing are virtually unheard of this early in the year. Combined with the extended winter conditions areas like yours received, Mother Nature is getting downright scary.
DeleteYour garden is really lovely and yes it has that feel that draws you into it. I think the definition of a gardener is someone who can be found in this natural setting on the best of days and yes on the worst of days. It gives you that feeling that a hug does. Your garden is wonderful, your photos are amazing.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the kind words, Charlie.
DeleteLike your garden and jealous of your little sign!! I always escape to my garden when times are tough its soothing! Keep up the good work....Like your blog!!
ReplyDeleteLooking at how beautiful your garden is, I can easily understand why it's your refuge. Seeing everything in bloom is testament to your dedication to it. Thank you for sharing, Kris. Best regards to you and your loved ones. I hope things keep going in a positive direction for everyone.
ReplyDelete