Happy 4th of July!

Did you know there is a Rhododendron maximum named Independence? It was discovered and propagated right here in Massachusetts. It flowers late June into early July during the 4 of July, hence the name. You can find out more about it at the Syringa Plus nursery website (where the gentleman involved in propagating this plant can be visited still today!)
http://www.syringaplus.com/independence.htm

Did you know our Statue of Liberty will receive guests at her crown today for the first time since 911. This is a very good day!

I will look for more flags flying at peoples home fronts as I walk and drive today. And there will hopefully be those welcoming patio and entry containers all planted up with red, white and blue blossoming annuals accented with tiny american flags in the center or on each side of the container.

Ah, yes, its the 4th of July! And even with all the rain we've had here in New England these last 2 months, the garden still offers its own fireworks display. Astilbes are standing full and proud like our American soldiers and Stella d'oro's offer their lovely blooms and skirted foliage like the bride waiting for her soldier to return home from his duty at war. The Spireas are now in full bloom without a hint that they've been barraged with heavy rains for several weeks, like our soldiers ships and planes assisting them in battle.

Not that war is something I prefer to talk about, but we are fighting a war, whether I'd choose we do so or not, I do support our troops who are sacrificing so much. I hope you will remember them today and salute our flag in their honor.

You can view our Statue of Liberty via web cam at this link, visit and say hello to lady liberty.
http://www.earthcam.com/usa/newyork/statueofliberty/

Its Independence Day and the sun is shining and I can hear the birds singing again.
The BBQ grill stands waiting for activity later in the day and the patio cushions are drying and the tiki torches are citronella filled, the lawn is ready for games and the cooler ready for some picnic cheer! So get out your blanket and basket and enjoy the Independence this day is all about. Remember our troops everyday but especially today, they are not at the beach having a picnic with loved ones, they are dreaming and hoping that next year they will spend their 4th of July as you have the opportunity to spend yours today.

As you can see, gardening and horticulture is about oh so much more than the dirt and green of it all, its also about things of the spirit, heart and mind. Oh yes we can always talk about plants, but there is alot more to it than that. There is a connection, a network, we use with the language and life of plants, an amazing energy that flows to and from all who listen and watch. Today I give thanks for the opportunity our country offers to all, and I give thanks to those who commit to our military services to keep us safe and strong. So again I say stop and smell the roses, there will always be the 'to do' lists in life, but just remember to keep the ones like these on the list too!

Happy 4th of July America!