6 Comments
User's avatar
Jennifer Morrow's avatar

Very nice pic capturing the bees!

I'm very happy that finally, on the third attempt to grow it over the years, I have a blooming lemon bee balm.

Expand full comment
Sunny M's avatar

Thank you! The bee balm sounds wonderful--third time sometimes is the charm in gardening, isn't it?!!

Expand full comment
Beth@PlantPostings's avatar

Stunning photos. I will go back after commenting to view them again. :) I was especially taken with the Opuntia and the Rose blooms. Yum. Your Irises are beautiful, too.

Expand full comment
Sunny M's avatar

Thanks so much, Beth! I love the translucence of the opuntia blooms. Apparently the bees loved the blooms too--though for different reasons. That pollen must be tasty!

Expand full comment
Kris P's avatar

The catclaw is an interesting plant, Amy. Your 'Black Wings' Iris is downright gorgeous. My own bearded Iris are unreliable. I've had a few blooms but I'm hoping for more before they throw in the towel for the season. I hope all is well with you and your sister.

Expand full comment
Sunny M's avatar

I really like the catclaw. Though it comes by its name honestly, it is a wonderful pollinator plant.

Irises are proving a good choice here, and I've been selecting some of the old, early California varieties (though Black Wings is not one of those) with the idea they might be especially well-adapted to my warmer, drier climate. So far I'm happy with the results... Experiments are ongoing!

Sarah and I are doing fairly well; The last several years have involved a big struggle to control/live with my chronic migraine situation. At least I'm well enough now to take a camera out into the garden occasionally, so hopefully I'll begin posting more often. I've really missed the garden blogging circle, especially IaVoM!

Expand full comment