Gardening and Gardens

The last few days have been perfect September weather - cool mornings and evenings, warm days and low humidity. The sunlight hits the garden differently this time of year - warmer, softer and somewhat more peaceful.  Here's what's blooming in my Long Island, NY garden this month: Although the Rudbeckias (Black-eyed Susans) are starting to fade, their seed heads are a wonderful treat for the birds. In a few more days, the mums will be in full bloom, prolonging the show in this garden. The panicle hydrangea is still in full bloom. I just love the fullness of this shrub, the delicacy of the flowers and its long season.  The Crape Myrtle finished flowering weeks ago, but the seed heads will remain and are quite attractive.  The Knockout Rose shrub is still blooming, with new buds appearing every day. It's a lovely compliment to the light green and pink of the neighboring Sedum. Deep in the shade of my shade garden, these Toad Lilies are ...

I came across this unique garden in an office building. It is glass enclosed but open at the top and filled with containers holding trees and seasonal plants - which can be changed easily with the seasons. For the fall display, this inside-out garden showcased grasses, mums, kale, autumnal hued croton and pumpkins. There were a few benches placed in front of the glass so visitors could sit and have a quiet, beautiful place to rest. So great!

I came across this beautiful fall container at the local garden center the other day. I love the mixture of colors and textures! The Purple Majesty Millet grass is surrounded by the warm colored leaves of croton, pink lantana, silver dusty miller and pansies (among others). Not the usual fall container combination one would usually see but I think they all compliment one another!