AT THE GARDEN CENTER

We are looking for a few pieces of garden furniture to put on the deck. Although we were actually in the market for a few flowers, these caught my eye. Good marketing on the garden center's part, they were right there before the flowers. My dear other half sat down in one and said these are going to be very hard to get out of. I could not deny he had a point but I hopefully said, "Nice thick cushions?" No, I don't think so. Onwards, but first...

this was a very cute water fountain between those bright yellow chairs.  In my mind's eye I could see the fountain of water shooting up and happy little birds enjoying themselves but no and again, onwards. A close-up of those pretty pots behind the chairs. I like those very much but right now we are concentrating on filling the pots we have and looking for flowers. Nice to see though.

These photos were more of the Talavera pieces I didn't share the other day.

In the middle of the next collage are the birds I shared but more of a close up. I saw a description this time identifying the larger one as Mother Dodo Bird. The smaller one was supposed to be its offspring presumably. 

This type of pottery is appearing everywhere. I have seen it in several catalogs that are delivered in the mail.

Aren't these white flowers pretty? The name on the label was Andromeda Scar O'hara Mar., 3G 15 - 18", but the following is from my 'Picture This' plant app.

They are called Japanese pieris, also known as Japanese andromeda, Lily of the valley bush, Andromeda japonica, Fetterbush, Mountain fire and Dwarf lily-of-the-valley shrub. Its botanical name is Pieris japonica. This is an evergreen shrub that produces chains of small flowers. So pretty to look at but I am always surprised at the toxicity of various flowers and plants. This one can cause seizures and temporary blindness if consumed by animals or people! An interesting story about its name is that the genus name Pieris, derives from Piera in Greek. According to Greek mythology, which is a subject I have always been interested in, Piera is the home of the Muses. This is enough to demonstrate how beautiful the plant is. Its foliage changes colors throughout the seasons and dangling clusters of colorful flower buds appear in late summer or fall. This plant originates from Japan which is why it is called Japanese pieris.

These were very interesting also. I don't remember seeing anything like these before. I am in the shade area. Most of the plants I'm buying will be shade plants. Epimedium 'Amber Queen' - Fairy Wings according to the sign below.

Next are Green and gold, also known as Golden Star, Golden Knee, Allen bush and Superstar. Botanical name Chrysogonum virginianum, a low growing perennial. We bought two and want to add one each to the larger planters we purchased last year. Commonly found in woodland areas of eastern North America. It makes a great ground cover in shady areas, and prefers partial to full shade. It blooms in spring and summer.

This is a beautiful little house to raise butterflies...

and last photo for today is a tulip planter filled with Penny Peach Jump Ups. A delightful color combination.

I will have more photos to share another time.