Today a little update on the re-designed back garden. Remember the tuteur that was placed in the new oval bed? (it originally had a pointed top) I recently replaced the "point" with a birdhouse:
You'll have to tell me what you think ~ I like it better but perhaps everyone does not? I think it's my weakness for garden ornamentation that makes it more appealing?? It's practical too ~ with the birdhouse on top it's like getting two for the price of one ~ a birdhouse & a tuteur!! Here's a slightly longer look:
Mostly included because of the robin in the center of the photo (the gray/black blob) and the first year male Bullocks oriole on top of the arbor. The summer garden is never without either so they absolutely deserve a place on this blog.
Both the grape jelly feeder (conspicuous by its copper top in the previous photo) and the sugar water feeder above are used almost continuously. It keeps me busy ensuring they never run empty but I don't mind the extra effort. It's worth it , most especially to have the orioles in such abundance.
Swiveling to the right, a shot of the red/yellow container:
The contents include one each of Lysimachia congestiflora 'Outback Sunset,' Fuchsia 'Autumnale,' Geranium 'Mrs. Pollock' and 4 tomato red petunias. I'm really liking the combination because of how it brightens the partly shaded area where it's placed.
Out front, Filipendula rubra 'venusta' is in full bloom.
I was out at sunset the other evening trying to capture the tall, airy blooms when I accidentally captured this:
The gold circles were a result of the setting sun thru the oak leaf openings. Isn't it dramatic?
I raised up slightly which switched the circles to a position above the Filipendula blooms:
Still pretty fantastic, wouldn't you agree? and most completely a fortuitous stroke of luck.
I've been staying busy pruning. I feel like that's all I've done for several weeks now. Over the weekend tho, I vowed to be done (at least for now.) It's time to relax a little and enjoy all the efforts that have been put into the new design. Think I can do it????
Agreed. I'm lovin' the bokeh in that last pic! Pretty sweet!
Posted by: AngryRedhead | July 11, 2011 at 06:50 PM
Relax in the garden? Do any of us really relax? Maybe for a split second before we see a)a weed, b)a new bloom c)new growth d)a branch that needs pruned out...or any other distraction!
I like the birdhouse on the Tuteur. Think it is pretty cute up there. Those orieles are sure cute, don't know them.
Posted by: Janet, The Queen of Seaford | July 11, 2011 at 06:51 PM
Love the birdhouse - you always come up with the best ideas. As usual, your photos are gorgeous! Have you seen hummingbirds yet? I tried putting out grape jelly but all I attracted was wasps!
Posted by: Dana | July 11, 2011 at 07:26 PM
Ah, the Queen-of-the-Prairie is gorgeous! Especially with the golden light dancing above it. I envy you your Orioles. Usually we have an Orchard Oriole here but he didn't show this year.
I like the birdhouse atop the tuteur, and think it fits perfectly in your garden.
Posted by: sweetbay | July 12, 2011 at 09:19 PM
No, I don't think you can do it, I know I can't. :-)
Love the birdhouse on the tuteur, very nice look and looks absolutely appropriate in your garden.
We put an oriole feeder out this year for the first time. No takers yet but we won't give up.
Love the pics of the Filipendula.
Posted by: Victoria | July 13, 2011 at 08:57 AM
Gorgeous pictures of that beautiful and airy bloom. I love the birdhouse on top! It's a bit of whimsy that's a little unexpected. But, as you say, also very practical! Smart!
Posted by: Holley | July 13, 2011 at 02:37 PM
Great images ... love the birdhouse and your red/yellow container!
Posted by: joey | July 14, 2011 at 07:21 AM
I love this post! The birdhouse is a HUGE HIT! Your container is outstanding and I love the Filipendula photos. You're so right. We need to enjoy our efforts now.
Posted by: Grace | July 14, 2011 at 12:07 PM
Hi Kathleen, I like the way you have displayed the birdhouse. Very whimsical! The shots of the Filipendula with the golden circles of sunlight are beautiful. This is a plant I am familiar with, but do not have in my garden. Gosh, it is nice! We are heading into the hottest, most humid part of summer. It is a good time to rest and stop and smell the roses.
Posted by: Jennifer | July 14, 2011 at 09:20 PM
Those last two shots of the Filipendula are gorgeous - the light from the setting sun just enhances the beauty of this plant.
Posted by: Kala | July 15, 2011 at 01:56 AM
Oh, Kathleen! Your hard work pays off - it looks like Better Homes and Gardens (meant in absolutely the best way) over there!!! I really do like the birdhouse on your tuteur. But, I'm a sucker for birdhouses (and birds), too. :-)
My little Filipendula is hiding in the garden... must give it a spot of its own... Being the Queen, of course! (And I always think of you when I see her!!)
Posted by: Shady Gardener | July 15, 2011 at 07:13 AM
Clever woman! I love the birdhouse as a topper for your tuteur (sp?)! :)
Posted by: Racquel | July 20, 2011 at 05:01 AM