Garden Debris

In the Garden By Catherine Dougherty The Damage in the Garden Now that the days are spring-like, one has the opportunity to truly assess the long-term damage to trees and shrubs from the subzero temperatures and ice, which was unlike we had ever seen before... it dealt fatal blows to many of our old friends. One of the earliest joys in the garden are the sweet scent of the currant bushes. The tiny yellow flowers with their scarlet center waft their scent through the air to let the gardener know spring is arriving. Unfortunately, the hideous cold killed them leaving dry mustard colored parchment in their steed. The leaves were not affected so we shall look for blooms next year. Both the Boxwood and Privet were hit badly as well. Usually some leaves turn brown, but many remain intact, unfazed by winter. This year every leaf died and we must cross our fingers and hope (which springs eternal) they will leaf out from the main stalks. Many of our venerable Caddo Maples, Burr Oaks, Elm and Locust were broken badly by the October ice storm and the ensuing sixty MPH winds with snow and ice in late February sent many crashing.... cleaning the garden takes on new meaning this year and promises to be quite a chore. However there I always a consolation prize in the garden and the early perennial Jonquils have been a sweet surprise blooming spectacularly this year... plus it is almost time to plant pots!