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Empress Josephine’s exotic plants
In 1802, Pierre-Joseph Redoute was commissioned by the Empress Josephine, wife of Napoleon, to paint watercolors of the exotic plants in her garden. Redoute’s spring flower images, such as “Tiger Lily,” have been reproduced in the Discovery Editions Spring Garden Collection. Each re-creation in the Discovery Editions Spring Garden collection is printed on archival paper the same size as the watercolor original, using archival inks, starting at prices of $750 for unframed prints. For more information, visit DiscoveryEditions.com/Spring Garden.
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In praise of perennials
“For many gardeners perennials are simply a means of adding color,” says Michael King, the author of “Perennial Garden Design” (Timberpress, $34.95). But for King, perennials are spectacular inspiration that communicate a person’s passion. In his book, King discusses design and the role of perennials. He also provides some thematic plantings. Numerous color photos not only are beautiful, but allow a reader to see how different plants combine in the garden.
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Cowslip time
The Common Cowslip (Primula veris) is one of the easiest primroses to grow. Its cheerful yellow flowers in April and May are ideal in partly shaded gardens and tolerate the lean soils of our region. The flowers are about 6 inches high and the plant is up to 10 inches in diameter. A beautiful double yellow form is called “Katy McSparin.” Her highly fragrant blossoms look great with grape hyacinths (Muscari sp.) and Siberian Forget-Me-Nots (Brunnera macrophylla).
– Kelly Grummons, Timberline Gardens
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Turn that compost
Spring is a great time to turn the compost pile. The weight of material may cause compaction and deplete oxygen, and without oxygen a foul odor may develop from the action of anaerobic microorganisms. Frequently turning the compost pile helps aerobic microorganisms successfully decompose materials without the odor. Water also is essential. Avoid saturating the pile with water, but do try to maintain a uniform dampness. The compost should have an earthy smell as it decomposes.
– Carl Wilson, Colorado State University Cooperative Extension Horticulturist in Denver
