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IRIS

I love iris, but I only have three varieties in my garden, the most impressive being the white one above, which has huge flower buds right the way up the stalk. I separated rhizomes from the original clumps I inherited last year and made lots of new plants, although I shall have to be patient, I only had the pleasure of one flower spike this year, but I hope for more next.

The purple variety above came gratis from my great aunt many years ago, who had it flowering in her front south facing garden. I have moved it around several times, but have now found a home I, and the plant is happy with. It has a pleasant aroma.

Finally I acquired this yellow flag iris from my dad. It likes moist and boggy conditions. I have no pond, but I have found a suitable spot where the rain regularly runs into. It does get quite congested and needs dividing every now and again to encourage more flower spikes.

I would like more iris around the garden and if I had allotment space I would grow many different varieties, mainly tall bearded ones. My maternal nan was named Iris so they always remind me of her.

SPARROWHAWK ...

I've seen many a sparrowhawk playing at being remarkably agile in my garden over the years, but not until today had I had the opportunity to view one at such close range. Such a fascinating bird, it had decided to perch on my back fence for at least five minutes, spending the time carefully observing its surroundings. Suddenly it took me by surprise by flying off at a sharp angle low into a lilac tree. I could hear the other birds being taken by surprise too, and whether it got its catch I do not know? That was the last I saw of it.

9 comments:

Sal said...: I think they are lovely flowers. I only have the yellow one in my garden;-); 9 June 2008 at 17:24
Threadspider said...: All iris are beautiful and I think it is a lovely idea to make space on an allotment for some.; 9 June 2008 at 21:51
Glo said...: I think Iris is the Greek Word for Rainbow ~ so you already have a lovely spectrum of colours :) Lovely connection with your Nan named Iris :); 10 June 2008 at 09:22
kate smudges said...: I love the mauve iris. That is such a beautiful colour. Well, I love all iris.; 10 June 2008 at 14:41
Anonymous said...: These are charming, Louise. My agapanthus (the white and light blue ones) are in need of dividing, too.; 10 June 2008 at 21:11
Rhondi said...: Hi Louise
The irises are beautiful especially the white one. I love them too but they last for such a short time don't they.
Rhondi; 10 June 2008 at 23:03
Suzie Sews At DOTTY RED said...: I love the way you say...I only have three...three...its three more than me, why have I not got them, they are stunning...Beautiful pictures.; 10 June 2008 at 23:18
Christy said...: I love how your garden is growing. It's always a joy visiting your patch.; 12 June 2008 at 08:42
Lavinia said...: Your irises are lovely. There is a yard in my neighborhood with many yellow iris and they look so beautiful amassed like that...; 12 June 2008 at 18:40