Spiderwort, Miniature Rose, White Japanese Iris - June 2009

Standard Bearded Iris 

They do well in Zones 3 - 10 and they love the sun.

This perennial does well in border beds and requires very little 

attention from the gardener. They come in every color except red. 

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Spiderwort is yet another plant that traveled the highways with me in the journey from Massachusetts to Western New York.

This sturdy and non invasive perennial  has three-petaled flowers on two foot stems rising from clumps of long, narrow leaves. Each flower lasts only one day but they open in succession for continuous late spring or early summer bloom.

Zones 4 - 9. 

Spiderwort (Tradescantia)

Miniature Rose

Miniatures are true roses that have been bred to stay small and compact in size. Extremely cold hardy, northern gardeners will adore these roses  for their ability to withstand even the harshest winters down to USDA hardiness zones 3 or 4. 

Use miniature roses in perennial borders, in pots or patio containers, along walkways or adjacent to decks. Plant miniature roses in front of larger roses or tall perennials to hide bare canes and branches with a blooming carpet of color. For a dramatic impact in your garden, plant miniature roses in mass plantings of five or more roses of the same variety. Miniature roses also make wonderful gifts that will offer years of enjoyment in the garden.

My miniature rose is set right by the front entrance to the house where I can see it when I leave and return, thus bringing much enjoyment to all who enter my home. This rose is resilient and grows to only 2 1/2 feet in height. 

It blooms from May until early December. 

Yes, even when the snow is on the ground

White Japanese Iris alongside White Canterbury Bells

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June chores

One of the ongoing chores is to remove the faded flowers,

thus encouraging new flowers on the stems.

Train and prune vines as needed - this is the time

to get them started on the trellis.

Keep the garden free of weeds.

photos by peacesojourner