never underestimate

the power of a cold resilient annual!  My neighbor made a case in point for this statement when she brought me a sprig of Stocks from her flower bed last Friday.  They had weathered the 19 degree overnight temperatures and recent snowfall with flying colors. 

I have to confess, I have had mixed success with this supposedly half-hardy annual (here-to-for to be referred to as a hardy annual ~ no half about it!).  I've started numerous double varieties from seed with only marginal results.  I've bought them for containers in spring only to have them wilt and fizzle under the scorching rays of a hot summer day.

However, anything that will prolong summer while providing color in the fall garden, despite the elements, deserves another look/chance ~ don't you think? 

My neighbor has them planted where they receive afternoon shade which is quite possibly the key to their summer survival?  I've always adored their spicy fragrance but now, knowing how tough they are, I plan to make another concerted effort with them next spring!

Completely off topic, I thought I would share my latest reading material ~ not that I theoretically have the luxury of reading right now (with the holidays so quickly approaching) ~ but some finds are too good to pass up!

I'll let you know how it is.  Another book on my reading list is "Winter Bloom" by Tara Heavey.  Funny how the garden remains constant even when it comes to other pastimes!!  Anyone else have a winter book list (since there seems to be no time for reading during the summer gardening season)?

Comments

[Kala]

Gorgeous color and bokeh in the images of stocks. I love their fragrance but had NO idea they were so hardy.

[Jan]

Here in the Gulf South, we plant stock in the fall not spring, and it blooms all winter, surviving our short freezes.

Jan
Always Growing

[Janet]

I love the fragrance of Stock. Tried it once in Virginia, can't even remember why it didn't do well....will blame the voles. :-)

[Sweetbay]

Those stock look heavenly. I don't think they'd grow here except during a warm winter -- in summer they'd melt like ice cream!