The blueberries (top photo above) are getting ready to bloom. Its a little warmer this year than is typical at this time. Perhaps I will get better pollination. Usually they bloom before the bees are out and about much. Many years I see a lone bumble bee that visits on a daily basis.
The periwinkle (bottom photo above) I planted as a ground cover on the side where the white currants live. This was the first time they have bloomed.
After much searching I found a source for a Scarlet Curls Willow last year. As they get larger the wood turns a beautiful scarlet color during the dormant season. That coupled with the curly branches makes for a really pretty tree especially in the winter. Forest Farm was where I picked this one up via their website. This baby has been in a 1 gallon pot since then and went into the yard today. Since I had to trim the roots that were growing out of the bottom of the pot (lots of them) I cut back the top to balance things out. The cuttings went into a cup of water on the heated bench. I know its better to root them before they send out leaves but I have had success with rooting Weeping and Curly Willow cuttings later than this so I am keeping my fingers crossed.
Kerry? Thank you SO much for the Scarlet Curls Willow! I look forward to having these in my yard for years to come.
Billy, enjoy.