Peony Season

You thought lilacs smelled divine?  There are certain varieties of peonies in bloom here now that seem to perfume the whole farm!  Another brief, glorious, seasonal event as my collection of peony bushes bursts into bloom--a bit later than usual due to the cold spring, but welcomed in the landscape and wonderful to cut for bold, fragrant bouquets to bring indoors.

I love this form--and also have it in deep ruby and bi-color pink, but white has little fragrance.

This variety seems to have the most fragrance (and the most ants!)

 

I remember when we first moved to this farm when I was quite young, and as was typical of many farm houses, a large bed here, devoted to peonies, was memorable.  At some point, it disappeared from the landscape.  When I moved back to take care of my dad in 2003, I brought numerous plants from Iowa, including a few that are heirloom varieties.  If the big storms currently moving through our area this evening haven't destroyed the look of some of the bigger, brighter bushes, I hope I can photograph and post a few more views soon.

Anyone else enjoying peonies this month?  Thanks for dropping by!

'Tis the Season

'Tis the season for truly heady fragrances!  I wish there was a way to capture them for a blog so I could come back to visit in the dead of winter, but I guess a few photos will have to suffice.

The WillOaks Campground is a small part of an old midwestern farm, so naturally, a few lilacs, crabapples and other blooming trees have wandered into the more wild and "natural" landscaping of the actual park.

This lilac bush is closest to my camper.

So, in spite of the small spaces that life in a camper has to offer, I've currently made room for 2 nice big bouquets just so I can breathe the incredible perfumes....amazing!

Have a wonderful weekend (& don't forget to smell the flowers!)