If only we could get some rain, this month would be great. Without it, gardens that I used to never water are thirstier than I ever remember seeing them. It's dry out here in St Charles. The river is down. My favorite lake, Nelson Lake, is looking quite shallow as I can see fish swimming from my view on the observation deck. The season started so early this year, and the drought and heat seem to be following. I won't claim to know how low the water table is, but I would imagine it's below where it should be for mid June. A lot of the roses peaked out at the end of May, but one group seems to be flourishing. That is the Flower Carpet®. Having been bred for the Australian heat, these plants have proven worthy of their drought tolerant status.
Flower Carpet® AmberFlower Carpet® Pink Supreme
This is the improved version of the older Flower Carpet® Pink. When I first saw this plant, I thought it was nearly the same. Then I saw it perform. While the old Pink was a great plant, this one is better. The foliage stays super clean all season long while the older pink can sometimes look a little poor. Flowering seems to be stronger as well. I would like to see this with Achillea 'Moonshine' for contrast in color and flower shape. The two could have a drought tolerant friendship.
Flower Carpet® Scarlet
I've liked this plant for some time. When I look around the landscape, and especially when I first started doing the landscape here, it is planted frequently. I first planted it with Solidago 'Fireworks', and created a combination that Ray Kroc would be thrilled with. The combination of mustard and ketchup colors was fascinating to me. Now, I think I would look for something like Calamintha nepeta ssp nepeta, to offset the orange-red color of this plant.
Staying short and sweet this week. Let's start doing a rain dance everyone. We need it desperately in these parts. Until next time, have a great day and Happy Rose Month!
