Thoughtful musings on various topics by interesting people at Blithewold
Think Pink (and Purple)
I had a recent small obsession with pink. You may notice it in the Rose Garden – particularly with the dahlias. I chose pale pink, hot pink and a few with lavender tones to balance … Read more.
Inspiration, Perspiration, Reflection
Nostalgia swirls in the September air like leaves on a breeze. Maybe it’s the back-to-school vibes that are forever in my heart or maybe it’s the cooler air and darkening days – whatever the cause, I … Read more.
September Sage
If you have been an avid reader of this blog, you may recall that September is my favorite month in the gardens. The weather still has a hint of summer, but with (slightly) cooler temperatures; … Read more.
Unstoppable Summer Blooms
It’s been yet another hot week here in Rhode Island! I tend to prefer the heat to the cold but this is really testing my limits. Luckily, the flowers don’t seem to mind (although they … Read more.
The Bug Days of Summer
I often think of August as vacation month. The traffic on the roads slows down, friends and family spend time at the beach, and school-age children relish the end of their free days. In the … Read more.
Color Theory Part II – North Garden
Last week I wrote about color theory and our color choices for the Rose Garden. Today I want to highlight the more formal North Garden, which is looking prettier every day! There is a long … Read more.
Color Theory
One of the very first things we decide each year is the color scheme for the gardens. We debate and plan and finally develop a concept that will work for the growing year. Color is … Read more.
Summer Heat
Phew! It’s been a hot couple of weeks. The plants and the people have been doing their best to stay comfortable in the humidity. Often the heat spells the end to some of our favorite … Read more.
Sweet Pea Splendor
June is when our gardening dreams begin to come true. The Cutting Garden is currently full of sweet peas (Lathyrus) blooming on bamboo arches. This all began with Gail’s vision this past winter. I recall … Read more.
Coming Attractions
May is often a time for celebrations. From weddings to graduations to Memorial Day parties, May can feel like a whirlwind. In the gardens, May begins to settle down by mid-month. Tulips kick off the … Read more.