Peonies – May 2024 – Gardening Zone 8a

Within these last couple of weeks of May, my peonies have exploded in hues of pink and divine aroma! Peonies are once-blooming perennials, which seems like a juxtaposition. The luscious, fragrant blooms last a few weeks while the foliage remains a vibrant, shiny green until late fall when they need to be cut down so the plant will rebloom the following year. In my gardening zone of 8a here in Maryland, peonies bloom typically in May.

What can we learn from the peony? Our talents and giftings take time and maintenance to cultivate; moreover, they aren’t necessarily meant to be showcased all year long but rather in an appointed season.

🌹It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year 🌹

Mazel Tov…Congratulations! You made it to Spring!

This season, take the time to enjoy the magnificent blooming trees in shades of pink, white, and purple. Allow the warmth of the illuminating strands of yellow on the forsythia bushes to brighten your smile. Behold the dainty daffodils, hyacinths, and tulips resurrected another year. Admire the unfurling of a rose bushes’ foliage and uneven patches of grass eager to be trimmed. The birds sing happily and so should we for Spring, the most wonderful time of the year, is here!

Snow-Laden Roses

{photo credit: Rick Oros on Pinterest}

{photo credit: Rick Oros on Pinterest}

After the 2016 Blizzard buried my rose bushes in 28 inches of pure white snow recently, my spirits lifted upon seeing glimpses of green Earth once more. It took nearly three weeks to even see that much!

Today, another snow storm, albeit far less intense, glazed my roses yet again. Despite the evidence of freshly snow-laden roses, I find myself counting down the days till Spring…just 40 days to go!  It may be cold outside, nevertheless, my heart is warmed knowing Spring is right around the corner.