A few weeks ago my neighbour Tom called to ask whether I could help to identify two large shrubs located across a narrow pathway outside the green chain link fence that encloses the main part of his garden. The planting was made long ago. He’d forgotten the plant names, but described them as being covered in white bloom
That day, I dropped by to look at the imposing shrubs and to try for photos — a challenge, because the property includes a very steep ravine. The shrubs grow near the beginning of a challenging descent, into which I edged my feet gingerly to facilitate a photo that would capture the magnificent dimensions of the flower-filled shrubs.
One of the four- to five-metre shrubs bore fluffy double flowers; the other shrub’s flowers were single. The double-flowered one looked like Deutzia, but I was puzzled by the size. The blooms had little scent except perhaps for a tiny hint of honey.
I’d taken along a plant encyclopedia to scurry through, and was reminded that Deutzia scabra and its double-flowered form ‘Flore Pleno’ can grow tall. They bloom from early to midsummer. Tom agreed on the identification.
I’d not seen these plants grown to such a size, but there are online accounts from gardeners in our climate of the Flore Pleno one growing to majestic size.
In full bloom, the shrubs have created an impressive display at the edge of a woodland, with tall forest trees as background.
Sharing. I’m grateful to have occasional help in caring for this large, labour-intensive garden of mine. It is a pleasure to share with helpers whatever garden bounty is on hand. Most recently, I’ve had strawberries and fragrant roses to give away. Often there is lettuce, zucchini, tomatoes or beans.
I’ve especially appreciated help with strawberry picking this year. I thought I’d reduced the size of the strawberry plot enough to make caring for it and the harvesting entirely manageable, but I see now that, post-harvest, I need to reduce its length and narrow the width down to just 120 cm across. This will make it easy to reach into the centre from both sides and generally make the plot’s care less time consuming.
Email alert. The internet/email service I’ve used for many years recently went out of business. Please note the new address below. This address came into effect on Monday, June 24.
To anyone who sent an email to my previous address between Tuesday, June 18, and June 24, please re-send it. You will not have received a “failed delivery” notice.
GARDEN EVENTS
Plant sales. The Friends of Government House Gardens Society are hosting sales of well-rooted perennials on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Plant Nursery, across from the Tea Room at Government House, 1401 Rockland Ave. in Victoria.
Rose care. Dinter Nursery, 2205 Phipps Rd. in Duncan, is presenting “Thorny Beauties: Rose Care and More” on Saturday, July 20, 10 to 11 a.m. The nursery’s rose expert will present a seminar that will include classes of roses with their characteristics and uses, pruning, pests and diseases. Cost is $10 + GST. Registration in advance is required as space is limited. Payment can be given by credit card over the phone at time of registration, or in person at the nursery. 250-748-2023. .
Tea Time for children. The Horticulture Centre of the Pacific, 505 Quayle Rd., offers numerous programs aimed at connecting children and youth to plants and the natural world. “Tea Time” on Thursday, July 18, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., will introduce children to plants used for tea. They will learn about harvesting and brewing herbal blends for a tea tasting experience. Cost is $35. To register call 250-479-6162.
Walk and talks. Russell Nursery, 1370 Wain Rd. in North Saanich, is resuming its popular “Walk & Talks” sessions — brief (20 to 30 minutes), informal but informative talks that take place outdoors, around the nursery. On Saturday, July 20, join Laurel to preview autumn planting in “Fall Trees 2024: A Sneak Preview”. On Saturday, July 27, join Kat to learn about the best perennials and shrubs to ensure continuous garden colour from late summer into fall. Attendance is free and drop-in. No registration is required. Meet under the willow tree at 10 a.m. sharp.
