New in my Cottage Garden

June 9, 2021. With the abundance of sunshine in the PNW this year I have been spending a lot more time in the garden. Usually, we slosh our way through April and much of May, but this year has been unusually dry and warm allowing for lots more time to plant flowers. Things are filling out and there are some new items as well. Last year’s the garden season was a flop for many, but it was 2020 so no surprise there. This year things are looking much better on the gardening scene. Since we live in the mountains, we are about a month behind everyone else in seasons, so we are just now starting to enjoy foxgloves. Today I wanted to share an update on the beautiful flowers that are new in my cottage garden.

The base of my cottage garden is herbs which I have been nurturing along for a few years, so they are now solidly established. The thyme has now grown to small bush size and the periwinkle catmint hedge row is established. The oregano is self-spreading as well as the chives which I divided to create a chive row. However, with all these green herbs we needed some pops of color. Given our cooler and shorter climate many of the perennials have been experimental. Some were successful and some weren’t. The snapdragons are a new addition this year and so far, they are flourishing. These are such lovely shades of pink! And they are gorgeous for cut bouquets. They also attract beautiful butterflies.

Pinks are also another new perennial this year. I remember those growing up and that sweet, clove scent they have. Pinks are perfect as an edible flower to decorate drinks and desserts. They also look sweet in any cottage garden.

Jupiter’s Beard came to my attention years ago when I saw how much the hummingbirds loved it, so I put some in which are growing nicely. I haven’t seen the hummingbirds yet although they did like the ranculus. Patience is important though when it comes to establishing a bird, bee, and butterfly garden. Build it and they will come.

Foxglove loves our woodsy area, however; they do bloom later then other areas, but we will have them a bit as they are long-lasting and prolific. My favorite are the peach colored ones. These are classic for a cottage garden.

I hope you enjoyed seeing the what’s new in the cottage garden right now. Have a beautiful day!