Meems over at Hoe and Shovel has been doing a wonderful series for the last ten days on Florida gardening called "Twelve Days of Christmas in a Florida Garden". I thought I would join in on the festivities for day 10 and show the Angels Trumpet and Jamaican Croton blooming in my garden right now. I love the contrast of these two plants together. I look out of my dining room window to see these beauties and they bring a smile to my face and comfort to my heart. If you get a chance, follow the link to Meems blog and check out her amazing garden.
Happy Holidays to all!

In winter, the idea that we don't see everything is appealing. Although, personally I am much more a fan of springtime!

4. Will you share a picture of your garden with us?

Sure! My garden is on a south facing hill. I used to get loads of sun but, the pine tree at the bottom of the hill is getting larger - It's been shading more and more of my garden every year. Everything changes doesn't it --
These photos were taken in early summer from our 2nd floor deck.






5. Will you share a picture or pictures of your favorite plant?

It's so difficult to pick just one special plant but, my Golden Willow tree (pictured below) -- the one I cut back every spring, is definitely a favorite.



I use these branches, along with my Concord Grapevine and Red Twig Dogwood to weave the twig ball sculptures I display in my garden. The cutting of the branches is called "Pollarding" and it allows this wonderful golden color in the new growth each year.

6. Do you have any photos of your art in the garden to share?

Here is "Tumblewood" , one of my twig sculptures. I make them in all sizes from 1" to this large one measuring 36" across. I'm thrilled to find a use for my trimmings and I'm thinking of experimenting with other shapes in the spring.





7. Do you have a favorite public garden to recommend?

Longwood Gardens, near Philadelphia, is a favorite of mine! They have a wonderful gift shop too.

http://www.longwoodgardens.org/

I was sitting in my garden the other day and noticed that I have probably gone a little overboard on the hibiscus plants in my garden. I decided a few years ago that I just loved having them in the garden because they seem to bloom year round down here in Florida. Hibiscus are the perfect flower to go with my favorite quote by R.W.Emerson, "The earth laughs in flowers". What flower do you have the most of in your garden? I'd love to hear what your most favorite and abundant bloomer is. Happy gardening!