Aiken is Busting Out All Over!

Forsythia is a little late this year, making it all the more appreciated.  Give it plenty of room and let it go.

Evergreen Clematis tumbles over a fence like a frilly waterfall.

This delicate quince is a perfect reminder of spring.

Floating Hellebores

Hellebores, or Lenten Roses, are a shy group.  They tend to keep their heads down, for protection, I suppose, but whatever the reason, it's hard to get a good look at the flower unless you lie down on the ground.  Try cutting a few on a short stem and float them in a crystal bowl, as you would camellias.

I have Been Inspired

Aiken has been a tree city for years.  If Woodlanders' Nursery's Bob McCartney has his way, many of those trees will be named and blessed in a unique citywide Arboretum, encompassing hundreds of species of trees in a six mile radius from downtown - trees in parkways, Hopeland Gardens, Hitchcock Woods, and private gardens.

After weeks of cold dreary weather, at last we have - more cold, dreary weather. But the Saucer Magnolias and the Star Magnolias and the Flowering Cherries just couldn't stand it any longer and have burst into pink, delicious bloom. Daffodils are everywhere. Springtime, you wouldn't come to us, so we're coming to you!