I always feel as if I am two months too late compared to other gardeners in the U.S. But finally, the long-awaited arrival of spring in Minnesota fills the air with excitement! After enduring the cold winter months, the sight of blossoming flowers, warmer temperatures, and longer days brings a sense of renewal and joy to everyone in the state.
I am a summer girl, and from the moment the cooler fall temperatures arrive, I am looking forward to spring and the vibrant colors bursting forth after the winter's dormancy, the delicate petals unfurling from a long slumber, all signaling the start of a season filled with growth and vitality.
This year spring has been exceptional. So much that it is reminiscent of spring in North Carolian, where I lived before moving to Minnesota. We actually had a fairly warm winter and spring compared to other years. Because of this the tulips this year are exceptional, if I say so myself. Not only are the tulip choices I made in the fall unique, but they are tall and bigger than other years. I am especially obsessed with the Silver Parrot tulips— they are simply spectacular, with its vibrant hot pink tones contrasting beautifully against the whitish exterior. I also grew a hybrid Darwin mix that is just beautiful.
Silver Fox parrot tulip
Silver Fox parrot tulip
Some of the roses are starting to bloom early too, and these yellow roses are bringing sunshine and joy with their radiant blooms. The Sunny Knock Out Rose shrub is bursting with happiness blooming in our front yard. I never really liked yellow roses until last year, but their cheerful blooms and sweet fragrance are guaranteed to brighten the day.
Another beauty gracing our garden are Bleeding Hearts! These delicate darlings bring a touch of whimsy and romance to any garden landscape, with their dainty heart-shaped blooms dangling like love letters from graceful arching stems.
Now let’s turn out attention to trees and shrubs because, while I love flowers, I do love beautiful foliage. Nothing signals the beginning of spring in our garden like the booming of the Arrowwood Viburnum with its clusters of creamy white flowers perfuming the air, and it beautiful leaves providing visual interest.
Two years ago, we added young Old Glory Maple, and we are hoping it is going to grow to be big on personality and charm. Last year was a rough year for this tree with the drought we had, but it looks like it is making a comeback. With its vibrant red foliage that rivals even the most spectacular fireworks display, the Old Glory Maple is sure to become the star of this landscape once it grows fully grown, adding splash of color to your outdoor space.
Get ready to paint your garden in the rosy hues of romance with the Pink Peony, the reigning queen of floral elegance! With its voluptuous petals unfurling like delicate layers of silk, this captivating bloom embodies the timeless allure of femininity and grace. Until it blossoms, I take great pleasure in admiring its foliage.
Another favorite is the Itōh Peony— such a rockstar! With its extravagant blooms that seem straight out of a fairy tale, this hybrid beauty blends the best of herbaceous and tree peonies into one mesmerizing package. And just like the pink peony, until it blossoms, I take great pleasure in its foliage.
That's all for now, my friends! Until next month, Adios!
Here are other amazing link-ups I enjoy—
Mondays - Hearth & Soul Community, You Are The Star
Tuesdays- Nature Notes
Wednesdays- Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop
Thursdays- Full Plate Thursday, Thursday Favorite Things
Fridays- Farmhouse Fridays, Five Minute Friday
Create, Bake, Grow & Gather Party
Saturdays & Sundays- Saturday Sparks Link Party, Happiness is Homemade
Monthly— Garden Bloggers Bloom Day