On a global scale, we all know that the plant world is vital to the survival of our planet.
On a micro and very personal level though, I should begin by saying why plants matter to me. I’m unashamedly a sentimental fool when it comes to gardening and well, everything else really if I’m completely honest.
Those who really know me are fully aware that reminiscing about the past and the things that have made me happy and sad, is an important part of what makes me the person that I am.
Plants for me have definitely been solid markers in my life.
Have you planted things purely because they remind you of a person or a garden that you loved?
I always incorporate plants and trees into my garden designs that matter to my clients.
During the design process, I ask them about plants that have special meaning to them, from childhood and adult life, and do my best to include plants that will over time, remind them of some place or someone important to them.
Sometimes, it might be the number of trees I plant in a grouping, if a family has say three children, I will plant three trees, for one family I planted the fourth tree, for the child that they sadly lost. I think that this is a thoughtful touch, that I know my clients really appreciate long after the garden is installed.
The plants that I select do matter.
This week, I am admiring the massive new growth that is taking place on a standard rose that I planted in a huge terracotta container at the entrance to our home, two years ago.
I purchased two standard Floribunda roses called ‘Playgirl’. This rose was bred in the USA by Ralph Moore in 1986. He was one of the world’s most famous rose breeders and is responsible for breeding more than 500 roses.
This rose was recommended to me by Perth rose guru and international rose judge Mr. Bob Melville.
I selected one for myself, and one to celebrate the 50th Birthday of my sister-in-law, Danielle.
I chose this gift for her because this rose, like her, is joyous, it is open and full of exuberant color and bears a delicate yet unmistakable fragrance. This rose blooms continuously through spring and summer and even into autumn and just like Danielle, is bright, bubbly, and vivacious, it is unmissable in the garden, just like her at family gatherings and get-togethers with our friends.
Your eyes are definitely drawn to this one. You absolutely know when she’s at the party.
Each flower emerges from slender buds to reveal 5-7 wavy, deep pink petals with yellow stamens when fully opened.
We also planted a hedge of them at our local church.
Sadly, just 4 weeks ago my dear sister-in-law, my sweet and funny friend at just 52, passed away. It has rocked our family and our friendship group. In these past few weeks, we have been to visit my husband’s brother and I have quietly admired Danielle’s ‘Playgirl’ in the large pot that she planted it into. I know she always admired it when it bloomed. She always pruned her roses much earlier than me and so hers is already in full bloom, mine is lagging behind slightly but is budding up.
So, when you select plants for your garden, why not take some extra time and choose plants not only for how they will practically survive and flourish in your garden but also for what they mean to you?
Do they evoke special memories for you? Plants really do matter, and your private garden is the place where you can plant the treasures that have meaning for you.
‘Playgirl’ will forever be the special connection that I have with Danielle, in my garden.
