The main garden bed has also recently undergone a significant transformation, and it’s been an interesting process—full of both successes and setbacks. Several plants were relocated to better spots, but not all of them have handled the move well. While a few are showing signs of stress, I remain hopeful that by next spring, they’ll settle in and thrive in their new locations.
Plants Under Watch: The Variegated Maple and Black Elder
Two plants, in particular, are on my radar: the variegated Maple and Black Elder. Both struggled in their previous positions, staying stunted and showing little vitality. Their new homes are in areas with better light and conditions, so I’m curious to see if the move will give them a fresh start. Time will tell if this relocation brings them back to life, but I’m keeping my fingers crossed.
Astilbe’s Relocation and New Additions
I also had to address the unhappy Astilbes. Despite being in the garden for over a year, they had barely grown. They’ve now been moved to new spots that I hope will suit them better. On a brighter note, I’m absolutely delighted with a new addition to the bed—a lilac Thalictrum 'Hewitt’s Double.' Its soft lilac colour looks stunning against the dark foliage of the red Cotinus (Purple Smokebush), creating a striking contrast that I’m really pleased with. Further down the garden, I have a pale yellow Thalictrum Glaucum, though it’s not doing as well. I might need to move it next year if it doesn’t improve, but I’ll give it a little more time to settle.
Success Stories: Fuchsia and Ornamental Grasses
One of the highlights has been the dwarf Fuchsia 'Red Chilli.' It’s thriving and looks gorgeous paired with the lace cap Hydrangea, bringing a vibrant pop of colour to the bed. As part of my plan to create visual cohesion throughout the garden, I’ve also introduced some ornamental grasses to the main bed. Two Purple Baron Pennisetum should add interesting colour and texture, along with a selection of Carex.
Not all grasses have been welcome though. When I started the garden I was given some Phalaris arundinacea (Gardeners Garters), I did not do my due diligence, and of course it ran rampant and I have had a heck of a job trying to remove it, I expect much like the Elymus rhizomes I will be pulling bits out for years to come.
Keeping Things in Check: Mint, Geraniums, and Asters
Among the flourishing plants is a cutting of garden mint that my mum gifted me. It’s more than tripled in size and will definitely need careful monitoring before it takes over the bed! The Geraniums and Asters are also on my watch list, as they have a habit of going from “beautifully natural” to “wild and untidy” in no time, they are still beautiful though.
With all these plants to care for and some yet to settle in, there’s no shortage of work to keep me busy in the garden. But that’s part of the joy—nurturing, experimenting, and watching things grow, even if it takes a bit of trial and error along the way.
