The side yard

It’s finally here! The month when nature in central North Carolina covers itself in glory. Dogwoods, fruit trees, azaleas, tulips, and iris bloom in a riot of colors. Daytime temperatures are generally comfortable enough to make working in the garden not just feasible, but a joy.

Our last frost date around here is April 15^th, so there are still a few days before it’s time to plant the annuals and summer bulbs, but there’s plenty to do to get ready. Beds have to be cleaned out, turned over, and amendments added. Old vegetation needs to be cleaned away and there are always things that need to be trimmed back or transplanted.

As I do that, I admire the plants already in bloom and dream of what it’s going to look like in a month or two. The roses are leafing out nicely in preparation for their May explosion. Hydrangeas, daisies, gazanias, and other perennials show new stalks.

I need to do as much as I can now. By the beginning of June it will be getting hot, sometimes too hot to work outside other than in the early morning.

For now, though, it’s glorious and I’m ready to go.