Landscaping: Okay, What am I missing? The garden part?

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Author	Comment
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 1, 2007 12:01 AM	Okay, I really need some honest opinions about my 'garden'. My husband says it's not landscaped, but rather just a collection of plants that aren't connected. All rose tinted glasses aside, is he right? Have I missed the boat? What do you think it needs? Keep in mind, it's on a slope, my nosy neigbors sees everything, the ground is back breaking clay and I need a veggie place to grow some veggies. I have recenlty begun to fill in the squares that are closest to the road to try and shiled my inner veggie section. But what am I missing? raised beds, taller plants? Help. The ground that is clay and has no nutrients is just a task initself to be toiling with and this area bakes in the sun. Thanks. rebecca30 This year pic#1 (looking down hill towards the neighbors): (my husband has that darn blue pool and no intentions of moving it, till the legs break off on it's own,lol) View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 1, 2007 12:02 AM	Pic #2 last year: (yard had more rain) View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 1, 2007 12:05 AM	Pic #3: (this year) all of this is the half acre part. View Larger
ecrane3 Dublin, CA (Zone 9a) June 1, 2007 1:13 AM	Honestly, if hubby won't get rid of the blue pool I think he can shut up about how your garden looks! I think the better question is whether you're happy with the yard/garden the way it is, or if you're looking for some change. I think from a design perspective you could definitely do more than what's there now, but I'm not sensing from your first post that you're really eager/excited to take on that challenge. Unless you're selling your house soon, really the only person you have to please is yourself.
WeeNel Ayrshire Scotland (United Kingdom) June 1, 2007 10:02 PM	Well said Ecrane, I'd pos dump the hubby in the pool Ha, Ha, Ha, but seriously, is there stagnent water in the pool, if so, get rid, you will end up with Mosquito's and their eggs swarming all over hubby while he ponders his ideas for landscaping. Wish I could see where the neighbours are as that might help a bit, if your not to keen on gadening on a larger scale, perhaps you could build some form of trellises not all in a line, but broken up with windows cut into them so you can admire what you have looking through, but the nosey neighbours cant see into you, perhaps grow a couple of climbing plants on them to take away the bareness of the structures, then as you look at the garden, you will find other ideas how to block out the people who are wondering how long that pool is goimg to sit there, or a garden house where you can get away from the house and eat outdoors or read/drink, there are lots of things you can do, IF, you have the will power and notion to do it, so dont give up, go to the book store and look at some books on landscape ideas for beginners, that will set him off into a whole new world that shows how to constuct a propper garden pool where you can watch some wildlife, that will take your mind off the neighbours noseyness, good luck, WeeNel.
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 1, 2007 10:49 PM	Well unfortunately my husband is a totaly fish person, so that pool is a breeder tank for fish and shrimp, so we actually never have a mosquito issue. But I do express my distaste for the blue kiddie pool for all the world to see. I can't change him unfortunately. :( As for the yard, I am currently concentrating on the front beds I have. which are about 3-4 of them. We are entertaining the idea of possible selling the house in 3-4 years, but with no deifinites. I know the pool will definitly gotta go for that event. I guess I want to know is this a turn off for resell appeal? Here's so close ups of my main garden bed in the middle of that yard and othe pics towards the front. View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 1, 2007 11:03 PM	front View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 1, 2007 11:06 PM	front towards the street, this was really bad later year with bald spots, so this year I pine strawed it down as a mulch since it bakes, planted new transplant which will fill in the next 2 years. My lawn died ages ago unfortunately, trying to reduce my mowing time since it takes 3 hours to move down about 1/2 acre on my acre lot. View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 1, 2007 11:07 PM	middle garden yard View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 1, 2007 11:10 PM	worked on installing the lattice work for privacy this year in the back of the house with shade loving plants. Just alot of yard and only starte inthe past 3 years to try and do something with it. lol View Larger
ecrane3 Dublin, CA (Zone 9a) June 1, 2007 11:51 PM	If you're thinking of selling in a few years, you're definitely doing the right thing by focusing on the front of the house, if you get good curb appeal and the inside of the house looks nice, people will have already fallen in love with it before they get to the back yard so it may not matter if it doesn't look as nice. In terms of curb appeal/selling, I think the biggest thing that's going to hurt you is the vast expanse of dead grass. I wouldn't do anything about it now if the mowing's a pain or it's just going to die again, but before you go to sell I would definitely spend the money to have sod put down on ideally the whole yard, but at least on the front part or anything that you can see from the street. Besides the grass, the one thing I think you could do which would make a big difference is I've noticed in several of your pictures you have these little square beds clustered together in the middle of the yard--instead of having little separate squares, I would take out the grass in between the squares and join them all together into one bigger bed. You've got a big yard, and having the little teeny squares with fairly small plants stuck in the middle just doesn't seem like the right scale to me. Once you connect all the squares, you may want to enlarge the whole bed too so that the size of the bed overall is in scale with your yard. I would also give the edges some curves, square shapes can go OK with formal type gardens, but the plantings that you have don't look at all formal so I really think a curved bed is the way to go. The best way to lay out the bed is take a long piece of rope or some garden hose and use it to play around with the outline, this way you can see how big you ought to go, as well as make sure you curve it so you're happy with the shape before you start digging. If you're only going to view the bed from one direction, then I would plant some small trees or tall shrubs in the back, then work your way down in size as you come forward with some smaller shrubs and then annuals/perennials, but if it's more of an island that you'll sometimes look at from each side then the tall stuff would go in the middle and work your way shorter as you work toward the outside. For the smaller shrubs and the annuals/perennials I would recommend always planting multiples of the same type of plant, this will create a more unified look than doing one of each thing. Odd numbers are best--3,5,7 of each, etc. If you don't want to plant a whole big bed all at once, get a few of the larger things in there so they can start growing and filling in, then follow up in future years with more plants. Put a nice layer of mulch down over the whole thing and it'll look nice even if it's not all filled up with plants. For your veggies, my suggestion would be to build yourself a raised bed somewhere up near the house, maybe right outside the back door so you can go grab yourself fresh things as you're cooking. Veggies will produce better for you if you can give them some nice rich soil to grow in, and personally I think it would be easier to give them that if you build a raised bed, then buy a bunch of nice dirt and fill it up with that. You can get some landscape timbers and build the sides of the raised bed with them (square is OK here), should be pretty cheap and easy. Or a lot of the garden supply companies sell kits to make raised beds, you'll spend a little more but don't need as much construction skills. Here are some examples from Gardeners Supply which I know is a good company [HYPERLINK@www.gardeners.com] Hope some of this is helpful!
dale_a_gardener Tampa, FL (Zone 10a) June 2, 2007 6:02 AM	You could use some ferns as a groundcover under the pines. View Larger
dale_a_gardener Tampa, FL (Zone 10a) June 2, 2007 6:06 AM	A few beds of wildflowers, in sunny places, might add a little color. View Larger
dale_a_gardener Tampa, FL (Zone 10a) June 2, 2007 6:08 AM	Vines on post and lintel would help create garden rooms and help define the space. View Larger
dale_a_gardener Tampa, FL (Zone 10a) June 2, 2007 6:10 AM	Beds of shrubby plants are easy to care for, if you can use a lot of mulch between the plants. View Larger
dale_a_gardener Tampa, FL (Zone 10a) June 2, 2007 6:12 AM	small beds of annuals near your patio or along the front walk can be a nice touch. View Larger
dale_a_gardener Tampa, FL (Zone 10a) June 2, 2007 6:15 AM	There are other plants that are not grass that can be walked on and mowed. View Larger
dale_a_gardener Tampa, FL (Zone 10a) June 2, 2007 6:18 AM	A crowd of planters near the entry is plesant. View Larger
dale_a_gardener Tampa, FL (Zone 10a) June 2, 2007 6:19 AM	A crowd of planters near the entry is,,,, View Larger
dale_a_gardener Tampa, FL (Zone 10a) June 2, 2007 6:21 AM	Perennial grounds covers in curving beds creates a nice place. View Larger
dale_a_gardener Tampa, FL (Zone 10a) June 2, 2007 6:23 AM	Plants that flower View Larger
dale_a_gardener Tampa, FL (Zone 10a) June 2, 2007 6:24 AM	Simple groundcovers w/accent plants View Larger
bellieg Virginia Beach, VA June 2, 2007 6:25 AM	It takes years, $$,and a lot of time and energy to establish a garden. if ground is clay(??? ) you might want to buy good dirt. I would buy all pernnials and some annuals and keep adding every year. Lattice with clematis will give you privacy from neighbors and i also have lattice around my veggie garden. It is always nice to discuss where to plant some varieties with your DH or a close friend who likes to garden. Here is a tour of my establshed gardens. I have to warn you that it might be overwhelming to some but it is my HAVEN. I call it Belles Have. Enjoy!!! If youwant to saee my hosta collection it is posted in Hosta forum under the Thread how to arrange hosta collection.Bellie first picture is our netted pond View Larger
bellieg Virginia Beach, VA June 2, 2007 6:27 AM	Rose garden. I used to have 80 roses but my DH built a preformed # 2 pond so he got rid of it. View Larger
dale_a_gardener Tampa, FL (Zone 10a) June 2, 2007 6:27 AM	Plants with interesting foliage, like this sumac add a point of interest. View Larger
bellieg Virginia Beach, VA June 2, 2007 6:28 AM	one of the bonsais I made. View Larger
dale_a_gardener Tampa, FL (Zone 10a) June 2, 2007 6:28 AM	Different colored leaves> View Larger
bellieg Virginia Beach, VA June 2, 2007 6:29 AM	the new hostas this year View Larger
dale_a_gardener Tampa, FL (Zone 10a) June 2, 2007 6:30 AM	Simple design and time will make a great garden. View Larger
bellieg Virginia Beach, VA June 2, 2007 6:30 AM	part of 400 hosta collection View Larger
dale_a_gardener Tampa, FL (Zone 10a) June 2, 2007 6:31 AM	Flowering trees. View Larger
bellieg Virginia Beach, VA June 2, 2007 6:32 AM	back of the house View Larger
bellieg Virginia Beach, VA June 2, 2007 6:33 AM	kiwi plants 2nd year View Larger
dale_a_gardener Tampa, FL (Zone 10a) June 2, 2007 6:33 AM	Keep it simple. View Larger
bellieg Virginia Beach, VA June 2, 2007 6:34 AM	one side of sunroom View Larger
bellieg Virginia Beach, VA June 2, 2007 6:36 AM	Bed that is packed with perinnials View Larger
bellieg Virginia Beach, VA June 2, 2007 6:37 AM	House entrance again bonsais and potted perinnials View Larger
bellieg Virginia Beach, VA June 2, 2007 6:41 AM	one side of the yard and that is all for now I have more but I do not want to bore you. It took a lot of years to do this and I do hire help 'cause I can not do it all. My DH and children as well as friends gives me plants for accassions. My apologies to those who got bored but his is my pride and joy as well as investment. It takes me out of the mall!!!Happy gardening!!! Bellie View Larger
nanny_56 Putnam County, IN (Zone 5b) June 2, 2007 9:33 AM	I sense you are really not that into it. My first suggestion would be to amend your soil where you want to plant. Consider the purchase of preplanned gardens. You don't neccesarlily need to order from catalogs. Find a design you like by looking online. Make a list of the plants to purchase locally. Including subsitutions appropriate for you area. If you do this now, in 3-4 years when your ready to sell, you will have nice mature plants growing. You will need to repair the lawn for the most "curb appeal". The turth is, some people do not enjoy the "trying to put it together" part of gardening or have a hard time doing it! I have learned to keep it simple. Otherwise I go astray and it doesn't work for me!! I use combinations of daylilies, echinaceas, nepetas, salvias, and asiatic and oriental lilies. Hostas and heucheras in shade areas. Good luck!! Oh, and if DH can't lose the pool, try to screen it it some way at least. Tell him that just doesn't add to the landscape either!! lol
WeeNel Ayrshire Scotland (United Kingdom) June 3, 2007 12:43 AM	Hi Rebeca, I cant add any further ideas to everything you have got already, however, Id sit DH in front of the computer and show him all these wonderfull gardens that everyone has posted, THEN, ask him if he wants a Landscaped garden or an open public park like he has now, it is a shame that the grass died as it really does make a huge space look lush and far neater to make beds into, also as a background, it shows up all the coloured plants, even evergreens as they are different in shades and textures, however, if you cant change your husband then maybe looseing money on the house sale because of the garden will awaken his ideas up a bit, who knows, and as they say, behind every good man, there lies a better woman, so please dont be dispondent about it all, you are only one half of the place, just do a little at a time, once you get to know what looks good, for a little time, effort and money, you will soon turn it into a lovely place and not want to move. Three hours to cut a lawn is no joke while Mobby Dick Plays with his fish, do you use an electric shaver or a ride on mower, this is back breaking work on your own, and in summer, needs done weekly, if you dont have a ride on mower, I would invest in one, then if you do sell, ask the new purchasers if they want to buy it from you, then you will recoup some of that outlay, could you perhaps get a young student into help you, even just once a week to do the heavy work like digging out your new flower beds and you could get on with the planting up stuff, you have a good heart and are obviously ready to get going with your project, so go for it and enjoy it, who knows, maybe even husband will want to come out and join you once you get started, I hope so, you deserve it, good luck, hope all your plans work out for you. WeeNel.
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 4, 2007 11:33 PM	Well, thank you all so very much for the great tips and ideas. My husband and I discussed all of your suggestions and have decided to move forward with the raised bed idea and make it more curvy. It will take a while but I will chip at it one section at a time. I've got alot of work ahead. Alot of dividing plants and trades to do to fill it in over time. The big problem we have with the lawn is severe drought and water restrictions, hence my dead lawn. I will try to get some seeding of the grass this year, nervous about that as I garden like crazy but never did grass seeding. Thanks to all. Once I get it started and have progress I will definitely post as the updates roll in. Thanks again. rebecca This message was edited Jun 4, 2007 11:35 PM
WeeNel Ayrshire Scotland (United Kingdom) June 5, 2007 12:09 AM	Good Luck Rebeca, your doing the right thing, go slow and sure, as they say, Rome was never built in a day, as for your grass seeding, you will have to prepare the soil for that as the seed wont grow on a hard packed surface, but the best time to do it is in the autumn or early spring as the earth just starts to warm up and before the scorch heat of the sun, but water, water, water, as much as pos, every evening is best as the earth has a longer time to soak it all up and not evaporate so quickly, I know you guy's in USA like to water in the morning, but in your heat, you want it cooler with less evaporation and time to soak in before the heat of the sun comes around. good girl, I'm proud of you for researching and really thinking about it all, you will achieve your aim I am sure, look forward to your pic's as things progress, Happy gardening to you both. WeeNel.
ecrane3 Dublin, CA (Zone 9a) June 5, 2007 12:20 AM	WeeNel, I hate to contradict you because you always have such good advice, but in a humid climate it is really not a good idea to water in the evening, then the plants stay wet for a long time and it creates a great breeding ground for fungus. The best thing to do is water very early in the morning, that way the water has some time to soak in before it gets hot, but the leaves will still dry off quickly and you won't get fungus. Evening watering is fine in a dry climate (I do it all the time because we have no humidity in the summer), but North Carolina has a ton of humidity so morning watering is going to be better.
WeeNel Ayrshire Scotland (United Kingdom) June 7, 2007 9:46 PM	Thanks ecarane, we also have humid conditions at time, though not prolonged as you have mentioned, watering the plants, AND, in the morning is a total waste of good water as far as we are conserned, the whole point of watering, is to water the roots of the plants, so you aim the water onto the soil, not ONTO the plant, the roots is where the water is needed, puting water on the actual foliage especially in the morning, is a waste, knowing that within an hour or so, the sun will be causing evaporation/humidity and in some cases, intense heat, this also causes problems like leaf scorch as the water droplets on the greenery acts like a magnifying glass and causes discolouration and scorching, which wounds the foliage and allows fungus, mould, insects ect to infect the plant also, so as I have tried to say on several occasions, you find a way to siut your own needs, and ease of care, your point about morning water is great, IF you have such an abundance of water to waste on the foliage, not everyone useing this site has that luxury, so people will addapt to a method which suit and as I am sure you already know, there are many alternatives, you just have to try and test them, if they dont work, you try something else, evening watering has been used sinse gardening began, we are being asked to conserve water instead of chucking it about like a man with no arms where it is not required, the foliage is not the main requirement for water, just the roots, so no comments will be taken as a contradiction I trust, just another oppinion, thats the joy of gardening. happy gardening. WeeNel.
ecrane3 Dublin, CA (Zone 9a) June 7, 2007 10:23 PM	Personally I don't know anybody who gets water on the leaves on purpose and I'm a little offended at the implication that I or anyone else here is being wasteful with water. Over here there are quite a lot of people who don't have another method of watering besides hand watering with the hose or watering from overhead with sprinklers, and even though you're aiming for the soil, those methods by their nature are going to get some water on the leaves. If you have a drip irrigation system then you don't have that problem, but many people don't have those and if you're stuck with overhead watering and you live in a humid climate, then you need to be careful about evening watering. I've seen many people end up with fungal problems because they did this and I'm only trying to save someone else from having that same trouble. No need to attack me for that.
WeeNel Ayrshire Scotland (United Kingdom) June 8, 2007 12:44 AM	ecrane, really sorry if you felt I was attacking you in any way, quite the opp, I was doing as you are now, giving an oppinion. Because your sugestion on your reply to myself was implying that in North Carolina watering in the evening could cause fungus due to a LOT of water remaining on the plants for a long time, that gave the impresion that some people were actually watering on top of the plants instead of under them and onto the roots, where I stated that the roots were the important place to aim the water, AND, less wastefull. While you dont appear to know anyone who gets water on there plant leaves on purpose, saddly, I know very many people who do, because they are, like this forum sugests, just starting gardening, and are of the belief that, it is the foliage that requires a lot of water. So the moral of my reply was, IF you take care to keep water off your foliage, then you should not have too many concerns about the plants having water on them for long periods of time, such as over night. However, a little water on the plant leaves will not cause a fungus problem, even in a humid climate, If, it is not habitually done over a long period of time. Yes I am more than aware that different people have to adopt lots of methods while watering, such as carrying water, use of hosepipes and even sprinklers, that is irrelevant, it is where the water goes that was my point, and the cause of some problems people may have while trying to learn the care of plants, which a lot of the questioners are. I never at any time implied you or anyone else intentionaly wasted water, I stated that by watering the foliage of the plants was a waist of water, and is, IF, done habitualy and over a long period of time, I say also, waist of valuable time. I certainly did not attack you in any way, I was giving my best known oppinion and the methods that we mostly apply here due to water conservation. It comes across from your latest tone, that you form the belief that you have the monopoly on gardening methods, where someone who has a differing oppinion, is attacking you, that is quite sad, as I was under the impresion that this was a forum where lots of ideas, methods/sugestions and oppinions, were offered without such silly pettiness, it seems that was something I must have formed as a nicety but not really a necessity, therefore I have no wish to keep this subject matter going back and forward, it belittles what I understood people would gain from this forum, I therefore close the page on this one. happy gardening. WeeNel.
ecrane3 Dublin, CA (Zone 9a) June 8, 2007 9:27 AM	I'm glad to know you didn't mean it that way but it certainly came across as jumping all over me about wasting water (which by the way I personally don't do--I have no lawn and a mostly xeriscape garden). If you reread your message, perhaps you'll understand why I took it the way I did and maybe try to be more careful on how you word things next time. I'm very open to opinions that differ from mine, but not when they imply that I or anyone else here is some sort of entitled jerk who runs around purposely wasting water. I'm not going to continue this either, let's get back to the real discussion
PrairieGirlZ5 Thornton, IL June 19, 2007 11:57 PM	rebecca ~ Seeing your pics took me right back to my childhood, I spent a few years in NC as a child. I miss the pines. When you posted the front of the house, in your fifth photo, I could see deeper, curving beds hugging the house, starting at the left of the walk, beneath the porch railing. I see you have started there already. I would extend the beds as much as you can, planting shrubs as background for the perennials. One of my favorite shrubs is Myrica pensylvanica, or Bayberry. I could offer lots more suggestions if you're interested. Anyways, figure 5 feet or so deep for the shrubs, and another 3 or 4 feet minimum for any perennials, and you can see that your beds are a little too skimpy. Ask DH to rototill the soil at least 8 inches deep, adding lots of organic matter, like composted manure and shredded leaves. You can rent or buy a tiller, but I would think you would want to buy one since you are also planning a small vegetable garden, and hey really are essential. You will really be surprised at what the presence a few shrubs has on your garden, it will look like something right away. As previously mentioned, start with three of the same kind of plant, planted in a zigzag line in a curvy, wider bed. No matter where you start, remember, it's supposed to be fun! So have fun, just do it! :-)
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 20, 2007 1:08 AM	Hi PrairieGirlZ5- from NC huh? cool. I only just depise the ground, since it's clay and all. Hard to work with. Well I do agree I know I need shrubs in the front beds. So here is what i did to the very front section. I bought some Skimmia, 3 of them, they are in the back ground. and I bought 2 gardinia's, the are in the foreground, and they put some milkweed toward's the front to try and fill in. Not sure if I like the Skimmia, since they are slow growing. I know I can't keep both because the gardenia will get to be 5' around in time. I am leaning towards just putting in gardenians as my foundation. What do you think? I have 3 more Skimmia waiting for me to decide their fate in pots still from the store. rebecca30 View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 20, 2007 1:09 AM	pic#2- both pics are the latest since my first round of pics. thanks. lol of course my milk weeds block the view of my small gardenians. sighs just trying to get this right and fill it in. lol. Note: I have decided to move forward with a raised bed out of wood. for my 3 rows of squares, starting with the 1st bare row. Just have to get the time to do it and $ for materials. :)) This message was edited Jun 20, 2007 1:12 AM This message was edited Jun 20, 2007 1:14 AM View Larger
ecrane3 Dublin, CA (Zone 9a) June 20, 2007 9:42 AM	Have you grown gardenias before? I know they can tend to be a bit temperamental sometimes, so if this is your first time growing them you might want to keep the Skimmias around just in case you have bad luck with the gardenias. But if you've grown gardenias before and know they'll like the conditions in that bed then by all means put more in!
PrairieGirlZ5 Thornton, IL June 20, 2007 10:36 AM	Rebecca~I am not from NC, but a piece of my heart is. Since the soil there is so hard, maybe you could get a truckload of manure from a nearby farm? And turn that into the soil. Now we don't have skimmia or gardenias here (but I had gardenias in my wedding bouquet), so I looked up how to grow them. I'll post the links I read. I was a little dismayed to see skimmia referred to as a "wonderful winter shade plant." Is it really that shady in front of your place? Since you can use them in containers, maybe they would look nice potted up in some urns on either side of the steps? I got a couple of really nice frost-resistant ones from K-Mart. In any case, they look like they will stay small. I have three Shamrock inkberries (similar leaf), and they are excellent for fillers, but they are also small and slow-growing. We planted them kind of close in a cluster at the corner of the house and I like them better like that than spread out along the front like I had them. The only picture I have is them spread out, and they look puny. The gardenias will fill in nicely, of course I am partial to them, but they're a little faster and bushier. I was concerned when I read they are not the easiest thing to grow, and they require shade too and regular maintenance. It says they don't like their roots distrubed, so maybe not the best plants to put flowers in front of. There is a wonderful gardener here, Horseshoe, who grows these. I think he would be a great one to ask for help, he's down your way as well. I'm not saying NOT to grow these two, just that you might have more success with easier plants. Ones that don't need great soil, lots of fertilizer, and pruning to look nice. [HYPERLINK@www.humeseeds.com] [HYPERLINK@hgic.clemson.edu]
ecrane3 Dublin, CA (Zone 9a) June 20, 2007 3:55 PM	I don't know if the gardenias need shade in NC--out here in CA where we have no humidity they'll get fried in about 5 minutes if you keep them in full sun on a hot day, but there was a bunch of discussion of gardenia sun exposure on the Fragrant Gardening forum and it seemed that people who lived in the hot humid parts of the country like NC had no trouble growing them in full sun. I still think they're somewhat tricky and temperamental though, so if this is the first time growing them I'd have a backup plan in case they don't behave themselves.
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 20, 2007 10:28 PM	I have had experience with gardenians before. Here's a pic of my very first one I planted like 5 years ago. I planted in right infront of my side bedroom window because of the wonderful perfume waifing into the room during the summer. It sites in a sunny spot wtih some afternoon shade. I think my front had good growing conditions for it and I have the patience for them. View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 20, 2007 10:31 PM	August Beauty to be exact, of course from Home Depot. Love these things. I am leaning towards the gardenians overall to help me out in the end. Thanks for everyone's input. View Larger
PrairieGirlZ5 Thornton, IL June 20, 2007 10:55 PM	Okay rebecca (car door slamming) that's it! I'm coming down there to get a whiff of those gardenias, you had to mention the perfume wafting in and then top it off with a post of that beauty! Guess you won't be needing help with those after all, LOL. I think you're well on your way to having a great garden, it is just such a lot of work, esp at first. Please continue to post so we can see all the changes as you make them.
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 20, 2007 10:59 PM	hahahahahahahha. almost fell out of my chair. thought you were angry at first for thinking you were FROM nc. hehehe sorry about that earlier. I read too fast at times. Well, now I just gotta find some more gardeninas at HD and dig out my ditch daylilies that are occupying potential gardenia real estate. lol. Taking takers for ditch daylillies. See the plant trade forum. Thanks. And yep I will post with updates for sure. Hey if you do ever come down here, come with plants for a super trade. lol winks This message was edited Jun 20, 2007 11:00 PM
PrairieGirlZ5 Thornton, IL June 21, 2007 11:30 AM	No worries, I couldn't even tell, hahaha. I'm giving away some daylilies too, they were left here by the previous owner and they are just the weirdest shade of creamsicle. My brother needs them, LOL. I have another kind that I just love. And I planted a couple more! They are just so easy in clay, you can always put those somewhere, in a color you choose. The only other thing I have to give my bro is asters. These are from my first attempt at really gardening (about 2-3 years ago), and they are so dang happy here! Why is it that the plant you really DON'T like all that much, keeps going strong, and the ones you REALLY like, disappear. Cosmic joke, I'm sure there is someone somewhere having a good laugh.
WeeNel Ayrshire Scotland (United Kingdom) June 21, 2007 9:30 PM	Hi rebecca, great your doing your garden, so happy for you, just take your time, as you go into it more, you will soon learn what likes your soil type and weather, it aint science, just practice and patience, go along to your local librery and get out a few books that give easy to follow ideas and plant names, what kind of conditions they like etc, most will have pictures as well, this gives you further ideas of planting schemes/beds etc, so you gain in confidece also as you have a better understanding of the plants needs etc, your doing great, so well done, we might be watching you in Homes and Gardens soon, then we'll be asking, was that the same lady that had no ideas, Ha, Ha, Ha, go out and enjoy, it is also good for you, and it is said to keep you fit, well I had a back opperation, so forget that last comment. Good Luck. WeeNel.
heatherfeather June 24, 2007 6:32 PM	Great work Rebecca! It looks to me like you have done a great job! Congrats! I also share the ugh of clay ground as I myself live in NC. We have just bought a home with a blank slate, so I really have no ideas as what to do, however you have given me inspiration to go out there and get it done! If you have any suggestions to share with me that would be great... Again congrats on the great job! Heather
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 24, 2007 9:19 PM	Thanks Heaterfeather. My one suggestion is, raised beds!!! If you can start with that first that probably would be easiest on your time and back. I am just now trying to get a raised bed in...:)) If you have any questions about what works and what doesn't work, just feel free to DMail me. :)
heatherfeather June 25, 2007 10:46 PM	Thanks Rebecca! There are already some raised beds in the home we just moved into. However there is not a thing in them. I have just been looking for ideas to plant inside of those. There is one that gets full sun all day, however I have a brown thumb and not sure what to plant as I am nervous to plan something that is in this oven all day!
WeeNel Ayrshire Scotland (United Kingdom) July 1, 2007 11:23 PM	Hi heatherfeather, like is said on many occasions on this site, go along to your librery and dig out some gardening books for beginers, these will tell you about all the different soil types and how to manage them, they will also give you pictures of plants and you will be surprised at how many nice plants you know and like, some book stores have a gardening department and if you manage to get a spare hour, sit down with a cup of coffee and look through the books before you buy as these books ar not exactly cheep, you want the one that is right for you, a good book is worhth it's weight in gold and full of information, gardening should be fun, not something to worry you, so give it a go, there are always really helpful people on this site that will offer you help and support, before you know it you will be confident and able to try new things out in your garden, just take your time and consentrate on one area at a time, dont try do all the garden in the one year or you will be exhausted and want to give up, go outside and do it, you will get so much pleasure from it especially knowing it was all your own work, good luck, WeeNel.
Len123 Adrian, MO (Zone 6a) July 5, 2007 3:05 AM	what it honestly looks like to me in the backyard is cottage-style plants being arranged very formally. like one would expect to see privet or a formal hedge around the geometric shapes. you said you did that because of your veggies. but the front fits comfortably in with the cottage or informal type plants you like. perhaps round the edges a little on the squares? i don't think it's wrong, maybe it's how everyone has been trained by the gardening magazines. or maybe just add a statue or fountain in the middle of the squares? of course it maybe that corn is growing in one of the squares. it really is nice and tidy perfect and clutter-free. i don't think i've ever seen corn growing in such prominence.
missingrosie Hillsborough, NC July 5, 2007 9:14 PM	Rebecca I live in NC. I feel your pain about the hard clay. It is a horror. What I did that helped: I went to the landfill and bought compost (one scoop filled my pickup truck bed) ($25 dollars). Then I got some soil (you can get at landfill but I just got a few bags because the area was small) and just a little peat moss --tilled it all in. The clay being what it is and the ground being what it is - I just did one planting area at a time. You could start with that area in front of your porch railing - outline a curvy broad deep area... and fill it in with the soil amendments and till it in. I guess you could do it in a raised bed (still would need to till it to mix it but not deeply into the ground). However, you might want a tree or something large to anchor it --so you have to at least go deep in spots for the tree and any bushes. You could pull it out far enough to block the view of the blue fish nursery. If you don't want the tree to anchor and you need a vertical for height and scale - ask hubby to post hole dig a spot for you and place a bottle tree there. It is tall, bright, and sparkly and colorful. It is a nice touch and very southern. To work this land can be overwhelming - but not if you do it at a slow pace and a bed at a time. My favorite book is Landscape Plants of the Southeast. I am working on a bottle tree now - here is a photo. It is still empty but you get the idea and all it cost is a few stakes (I did raid a few restaurant dumpsters) (with permission). I used a tree that needed to come down so it was already in the ground but adding your own pole is really easy - just a hole and some quick setting concrete. I know you will eventually have your property exactly the way you want it and then you won't want to sell! Good Luck! View Larger
missingrosie Hillsborough, NC July 5, 2007 9:20 PM	I forgot I wanted to show you some sunflowers that take a lot of sun/dry ground. Deer don't eat. And, will give vertical interest. View Larger
missingrosie Hillsborough, NC July 5, 2007 9:23 PM	A distance shot of the sunflowers. View Larger
missingrosie Hillsborough, NC July 5, 2007 10:03 PM	Rebecca I thought you might get a kick out of this photo.. look at what is in the back of the photo - you are not the only one contending with big blue things. View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) July 5, 2007 10:44 PM	oh THAT BLUE THING is hilarious. hehe. at least I am not the only one. Thanks for sharing guys. :) i got a whole bunch of plants from secret trade swaps recently that I know have to figure out what I want to do with it. so fun!!
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) July 9, 2007 11:07 PM	Update: Okay, so I have now begun the construction of my raised bed out of landscape timbers due to the wonderful clay soil we have here. More pics to come as I get it together. Thanks. Pic#1- cleared out weeds View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) July 9, 2007 11:09 PM	pic#2 - just closer a bit View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) September 3, 2007 8:34 PM	Hey All, Update...the raised bed is finished!! Yippie. I have got to get some pics of it.. but finally after a busy vacation season, drought, heat, and etc etc, it was finally finished being constructed. I am currently putting in all the wonderful bags of dirt, manure and peat moss. I hope to have the soil mixed and ready for planting by the end of this week. I got some plants ready to move in and even bought tulips for spring. I everyone has had a good summer and is getting ready for any fall plantings and preparations in the garden. Pics to come soon. rebecca30
sarahn Milton, NH (Zone 5a) September 4, 2007 9:35 PM	I can't add much, and if it's been suggested, I read too fast. Could you get your husband to go with a landscaped pond to keep his shrimp in? You know, black liner, rocks, water & marginal plants, etc. This would be the water feature that would appeal to potential buyers and to you and your family while you're still there.
WeeNel Ayrshire Scotland (United Kingdom) September 4, 2007 9:59 PM	Well Rebeca, have you been a busy gardener or what, you have done a tremendous job, hope you like the garden now you have done all that work, the fun begins now, when you get it planted up, I would suggest you do that in the cooler months though or you will loose a lot of plants in the intense heat and they are just so hard to care for when newly planted, it is so hard to wait that long, but will pay off in the long run, considering it was June you started looking for ideas, you should be so proud of yourself and hope your hubby is too, have you thought that maybe now you have the gardening bug, you just might not want to leave it in the care of someone else if you move, anyway, big GOLD star to you and many congratulations for the fantastic job you are doing, bet the neighbours will be green with envy. Good luck and continued success, you sure deserve it. WeeNel.
missingrosie Hillsborough, NC September 4, 2007 11:05 PM	Hi Rebecca Hooray for you getting so much done. I got rid of my big blue thing --but I got a pouty skinny pinkish thing with a moustache in its place. Did you say you do or do not have deer? If you do, watch those old tulips. I have had wonderful luck with Daphne - even with the horror stories ..of course once I planted it, I did not move it nor did I plant anything near enough to disturb its roots. I keep it dry just like it likes (not hard to do lately) and it does beautifully. From a skinny little thing last July (I planted it in JULY!!) it is fairly tall - maybe 3 feet and bushy. Lovely fragrant flowers. If you like, I will give you a list of what has worked or not in a mostly sunny garden with regards to the deer/rabbits. If you don't have to worry about those critters good for you!
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) September 5, 2007 6:42 PM	yep, I have deer that come from time to time. I finally convined my husband to get rid of the darn blue pool! because we recently had a shed built, so the blue thing can be stored dry elsewhere, finallyyyyyyyyyy. I bought plants but I know it's too hot. I am itching to get the plants in now. but don't want to lose any. I will keep an eye on the temps. For now, I will just ensure the new plants are kept in a cooler shaded area in the back of the house and well watered, waiting for their new home. *hopefully I will get my hubby digital camera and take some pics of the bed this weekend. It's a blank slate just wainting for new occupants. hehe.
WeeNel Ayrshire Scotland (United Kingdom) September 9, 2007 6:08 PM	Hi Rebeca, WeeNel back again, just read your last reply and as much as I am celebrating with you at the removal of the blue pool, why dont you use it as a container for your pots while you wait the right planting time, I use my grand kids OLD paddle pool to plunge my pots into to give them a good drink, I put the pots in, then add about an inch of water to the pool and let the plants soak up the water for a good drink, it sure is a lot easier than watering each individual pot, also there is less likelihood of fungus or damping off the foliage if the plants can draw water up rather than trying to draw water down in small pots, little soil and intense heat, hope this works for you, keep the plants in a shaded area till you can get them planted in the lovely beds you are preparing for them. WeeNel.
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) September 17, 2007 8:15 PM	Heah All, Still have the blue pool, but hubby promised me it will be gone shortly. crossing fingers . So ignore the blue and see how the bed turned out. What do you think? I know its a new bed, can't wait to see it in 1 year. :0) View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) September 17, 2007 8:17 PM	pic #2 Next to come up are the squared hiding behind the bed. Thos will be filled in with grass seed. Currently now they have sweet potatoe in them. hehe View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) September 17, 2007 8:19 PM	1st 4 foot section close up View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) September 17, 2007 8:20 PM	2nd 4 foot section View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) September 17, 2007 8:22 PM	gotta fix the grainess on the camera- 3rd 4 foot section View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) September 17, 2007 8:22 PM	just a few more View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) September 17, 2007 8:24 PM	lady Jane irises View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) September 17, 2007 8:25 PM	yep View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) September 17, 2007 8:26 PM	my sweet potatoes to be removed next month to plant grass in those patches. View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) September 17, 2007 8:38 PM	I planted alot of named irises (thanks Mitt!), creeping speedwell, salvias,3 False Blue Indigo towards the back, lots and lots of seeds I sowed for next year (Rudbeckias, milkweed), a couple of creeping plants towards the front (creeping jenny, sedum tricolor), Aachabee daylillies, in the centere a 3-4foot pink beebalm (can't wait till it fills in), blackberry lillies, Crinum - 'Ellen Bosanquet', Mardi Gras helenium, variated striped Japense ires, white irises against the blue Fals Indigos, mini zebra grass, yarrows, 4-o-clocks, and oh yeah, red and orange tulips to go in next month among my and some Crater Lake Blue comeing in soon. Alot of blues themes, since the back portion where the blue bird house is has lots of oranges and yellows. Thank you all for the many tips and advice. Now I am working on my front area of the house. After all areas have been weeded, plants moved, I will finally finish it all off with the wonderful eye popping red cedar I see all over town, including this new bed will get a top coat of it. Can't wait. :o)) The front: left is almost done, gotta work on the right in a few days. :0) and then give it the red carpet (cedar) treatment. This message was edited Sep 17, 2007 8:41 PM View Larger
nanny_56 Putnam County, IN (Zone 5b) September 30, 2007 11:39 AM	What a difference since you started this thread!! Great job!! I know it has been lots of hard work, and it shows.
WeeNel Ayrshire Scotland (United Kingdom) November 4, 2007 4:13 PM	Hi Rebeca, boy have earned that gold star, you have done a tremendous amount of work, you ideas and design have paid off and hope that very soon you can relax a bit more in your new garden, gardens are meant to be enjoyed, a place to chill out and a place to sit in the evening with a cup off coffee or gin and tonic just to take stock of everything you have achieved. you have never mentioned what your husband thinks of this oasis and all the work his dear wife has managed to do, your landscape looks completely different and the approach from the side walk will be a real stunner for all to see. I am so proud of you when I think at the start, you did not know a dandelion from a Daisey. well more or less, now you are so full of confidence, know all your plants and know exactly what you want to grow beside them, if your front yard ends up half as good as what you have already done, I dont think you will want to move as you first mentioned as a reason for doing the garden. Well done, I hope lots of other new gardeners take loads of encouragement form you. very best wishes. WeeNel.
velveteena Seattle, WA November 5, 2007 11:26 PM	Boy, Rebecca! Did you anticipate such a HUGE response?? I'll just add, do NOT take your pine trees for granted. They are majestic. The front of your home looks quite charming. My thought was to build raised beds all around the blue pool, or at least surround it with some sort of cover of vegetation. If you haven't already, get yourself a pick-ax, Girl, and attack that clay. Try to avoid puncturing the pool, though. It would be great to hire some helpers for a few hours to really poke some holes in your yard. Glad you're having fun.
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) November 8, 2007 12:15 AM	Hey all, Thanks. By the way, I have a wonderful bit of news. I finally convinced my husband to REMOVE THE BLUE POOL, AND POOF IT'S GONE NOW. Yippie!! Now I just gotta plant some grass seed in the spring where some bare spots are now. I will take more pics come spring. By the way, I plants some Four-O-Clocks I recieved from a gracious trader in California,and boy the are still blooming with buds about to open shortly. I couldn't believe it as this is already Nov 8, 2007 and flower buds coming! Anyhow, stay tuned till the spring :))) Thanks WeeNel and velveteena. rebecca30
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) November 8, 2007 10:14 AM	Here's a few pics of the 4-O-Clocks still blooming in November. View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) November 8, 2007 10:15 AM	pic2 View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) November 8, 2007 10:17 AM	pic3 bed now View Larger
WeeNel Ayrshire Scotland (United Kingdom) November 8, 2007 6:46 PM	Cant wait till spring, this is going to be such an exciting year for you and so much hard work, so now, your reward is, send away for all those NEW catalogues for seeds, plants and any other type of ideas you will want to find out about, once these arrive, you sit back, plan all your gardening wish lists and sip a lovely hot drink while you stroll about the beautiful garden you have created, and be proud of it, it is a wonderful transformation from spring time, very best wishes and thank you for all your updates they have surely inspired a lot of site visitors, that's what gardening is all about. WeeNel.
velveteena Seattle, WA April 10, 2008 11:04 PM	Rebecca, are you still out there? Give us a look at the Spring of '08 edition of your garden.
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 11, 2008 9:35 PM	LOl heah all, yes I am still here. I was actually thinking about taking some updated pics this weekend after I just finished mowing the lawn. I will give a update shortly, promise. The garden looks great. I have a slew of tulips in bloom pics as well. Just let me romp in the garden this weekend with my camera. :O))) rebecca30
Tallulah_B Calgary, AB (Zone 3b) April 14, 2008 3:47 PM	Hoooo boy !!! I'm new to this forum, and DG. Came here because I'm wanting to create MY backyard. Rebecca! - You are such an inspiration! I'm a little jealous that you have an Indigo Bush. I used to have one in Winnipeg, MB, but of course left it behind when I sold the house. And it's hard to find one out here, in Calgary..... siiiiiiiiigh. The true Indigo, I mean. Very very dark flowers. I was thinking about doing raised beds, too. But as it's a tiny back yard, I wouldn't be able to do that, plus the seating I want to build........ As soon as my hubby removes his ladders, I'll take some pics of my own yard, so I can document the differences lol Good going, girl! You sound like my kinda gal - hardworking, and never-say-never!!!
missingrosie Hillsborough, NC April 14, 2008 6:59 PM	Tallulah41 build the raised bed into your seating - into the sides and along the back! It will look great.
Tallulah_B Calgary, AB (Zone 3b) April 15, 2008 8:01 PM	Missingrosie - I plan to build a plant bench - building a bench between 2 planters (as the legs). Are you reading my mind? Susan
missingrosie Hillsborough, NC April 15, 2008 8:42 PM	Susan: you ask: are you reading my mind? No, but when you are desperate for green growing things.... you put on the ole thinking cap --and my cap just happened to go on at the same time! Suggestion: If you plan a deck that is low to the ground consider leaving an open space in it and sinking a preformed small plastic pool or container to get a small bog garden going. If your decking is high..just do it on the top and frame it in with stacked stone or other material. If that doesn't suit --you can consider a large ceramic pot for a small water garden feature. Even with a limited physical space you can do a great deal. Be sure to post photos - there are a lot of "great minds" on these forums and everyone is so darn nice and are willing not only to help but to actually research for you. You can't find a better group of folks. Posting a photo really helps to get everyone thinking.
Tallulah_B Calgary, AB (Zone 3b) April 15, 2008 8:59 PM	Rosie - I have a large deck (18x19ft), and a tiny back yard (not in sight of the deck - it's around the corner from our house, and the deck is along the side...) AND we can't have a water feature - it's part of the agreement with the Mobile Home park we live in (suppose it's because of the mosquito problems?!?! We hardly have ANY mosquitos in Calgary!). Can't have fire pits, either. Too many older trees (40 yrs old, some of them, like our pine tree & the cottonwood next door!) sweeping the ground, etc. BUT, I will do something - you betcha! I was thinking about doing raised beds in the back, so we'll see how much room I use for that lol Right now I have a wide set of deck stairs my hubby attached to a large shed, and it's where I stagger potted plants, etc. Looks good when they're in bloom & leaf. Faces east, so gets good sun without burning. Will keep you posted & will take pics when I can. Susan
missingrosie Hillsborough, NC April 15, 2008 9:25 PM	Susan, to me - a water feature --as in 'no water feature allowed' means a fountain or pool or something along those lines. Although if the water is moving ..mosquitos shouldn't be an issue ---maybe the folks just need some information/education about that and they may reverse their decision. If you have a small gravel bog on top of the deck - or a small mud bog in a prefab container of sorts --that shouldn't fall under 'water feature.' If you were interested in this, you should inquire about those neighborhood guidelines. Even if it isn't your cup of tea -- opening the inquiry may help another neighbor obtain the bog garden of their dreams!
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 8:52 PM	okay here's my updated garden, red died mulch and all: View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 8:53 PM	. View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 8:55 PM	.. View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 8:55 PM	... View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 8:57 PM	^.^ View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 8:59 PM	Hmmm Hmmm humming View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 9:00 PM	jhjhkjhkj View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 9:02 PM	do da do da humming while posting pics lol View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 9:02 PM	kjkjk View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 9:03 PM	>> this pics are of wonderful fragent irises from a very kind DGer who gave a a whole box load of these beuties... I am forever grateful for his kindness.. This message was edited Apr 17, 2008 9:05 PM View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 9:06 PM	> View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 9:08 PM	Just a few left.. hehe Knockout rose about to burst forth View Larger
missingrosie Hillsborough, NC April 17, 2008 9:08 PM	Rebecca Everything looks so nice! Are the photos this year? Remember when you felt so overwhelmed about starting it? (smile) FYI : for your mulch needs the landfill has a cubic yard of glass mulch (2000 pounds!) for 20 dollars! And the red mulch (again per cubic yard --not sure about weight) for 24 dollars. They deliver free within ten miles and then charge for beyond. I know you live farther than ten miles --but you can also go to purchase it if you have a vehicle or trailer to cart it.
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 9:08 PM	and one did... lol View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 9:10 PM	Pics are from this week.. got the mulch from a local mulch farm down the road in which the delivered a whole truck load of the stuff. :o)
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 9:12 PM	and the back, just a little more grown. this will be ready more towards the summer blooms. View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 9:14 PM	Oh yeah and here are my front tulips that bloomed last month, these are the earlier variety.. bought a Wally World.. View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 9:15 PM	Okay.. now I am ready for Summer Blooms. :O) sighs It was alot of work, but oh so worth it..... So... what do you all think? rebecca30
Zanymuse Scotia, CA (Zone 9b) April 17, 2008 9:47 PM	I just started at the beginning of this thread and read all the way through it. I am amazed at the difference you have made in a year. It is coming together and looking wonderful!
Tallulah_B Calgary, AB (Zone 3b) April 17, 2008 9:49 PM	B - E - A -uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu - tiful!!!!!! You sure have put in a lot of work and it shows. Wish it were that warm here lol I have a load of projects I want to do, and most of them involve me, a load of lumber, fastners, some imagination and a lot of advice hahahaha I can't wait to get started on my "Secret Garden" at the back 40! (all 120 sq ft of it! LOL) Gonna have to post the "before" pics, then we'll see what I can do for an "after" shot hahahaha
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 9:51 PM	thanks...:O) Yep, 1 year makes a difference. Even as I looked back at this thread at the pics, I noticed the difference is the size of all the plants and trees.. lol I just love gardening.... rebecca30
ecrane3 Dublin, CA (Zone 9a) April 17, 2008 10:12 PM	So is the infamous blue pool gone, or did you just not take a picture from that angle? The yard is looking great, it really is amazing what a difference a year can make!
missingrosie Hillsborough, NC April 17, 2008 10:20 PM	Ha Ha - I was wondering about the blue pool too! I figured Rebecca had pond flowers growing in it and was saving it for last.
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) April 17, 2008 10:21 PM	Yep, I gave my hubby an declaration, the blue pond is gone or else... so, we truly removed it last fall. It's deep in the woods somwhere, not even being used. out of site. Thanks goodness!! And thanks. Yep 1 yr does make a difference. r30
WeeNel Ayrshire Scotland (United Kingdom) May 22, 2008 8:18 PM	Oh my Gosh Rebeca, you sure have had the gardening bug right up to the very last moment of the season, how wonderful your place looks now compared to the very first pic you posted last year, before and after aint the right words, it should be " A year in the life of Rebeca" your garden looks as if you have gardened all your life, it is truly fab, the best bits for me are the rip roaring colour combinations you have used, my style to a tee, none of those wishy washy boring dull colour schemes eh, just a landscape of beauty in every shade imaginable, and how it all works so well. I truly am so proud of all you have achieved, it is a credit to your determination, a credit to your hard work, but most importantly, a master piece to your own imagination and care, you should be given an award for adding such beauty to your neighbourhood and I am sure everyone who passes by must smile as they take in the whole new area you have created for yourself, AND all of us on the site. well done and have a wonderful 2nd gardening year, you will now be so proud to show everyone your little patch of heaven and so you should be. congratulations Rebeca. take good care. WeeNel.
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) May 24, 2008 8:28 AM	takes so kindly WeeNeel. I really appreciate the encouragement. Now I am waiting for June blooms. Always something blooming in my garden now. :O))))) Have a great weekend. rebecca30
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 4, 2008 10:51 PM	Here's what's blooming in June so far. Waiting on my pink Bee Balm bush to bloom. Can't wait, it's the tall center piece in the raised bed.... View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 4, 2008 10:52 PM	do da View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 4, 2008 10:53 PM	di do View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 4, 2008 10:54 PM	do da do da Aabachee Daylilly my favorite of all View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 4, 2008 10:55 PM	camptown races sing that song al da do da day... This message was edited Jun 4, 2008 10:55 PM View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 4, 2008 10:56 PM	Red hot poker View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 4, 2008 10:57 PM	Yarrow "Paprika" View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 4, 2008 10:58 PM	My Knockout rose View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 4, 2008 11:00 PM	blue Bird house - she has 4 babies this year.. they have all gone now. Heirloom tomatoes +cages This message was edited Jun 4, 2008 11:01 PM View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 4, 2008 11:03 PM	Ms. Blue Bird's nest. Room vacant now. lol View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 4, 2008 11:04 PM	Verbena "Homestead Purple' View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 4, 2008 11:05 PM	Zebra grass blades View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 4, 2008 11:07 PM	what else what else.. ah yes Tickseed "Sunfire". New to me this year. Purchased at box store. They give nice color punches here and there. This message was edited Jun 4, 2008 11:08 PM View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 4, 2008 11:09 PM	Something peachy View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 4, 2008 11:12 PM	Hehe Now I have worked on my moms garden to... View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 4, 2008 11:14 PM	kjkjkj View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 4, 2008 11:16 PM	I can't wait for her garden to mature in 3 years. There are Easter Purple Cone flowers, purple Siberian irises I grew from seed for her. etc etc. Right now it's a nursery but can't wait... View Larger
rebecca30 Fuquay Varina, NC (Zone 7b) June 21, 2008 9:43 PM	bee balm 'Clarie Grace' finally bloomed in June 08