Monday, February 8, 2010

"All the Goodliness thereof is as the Flower of the Field..."


       Pulmonaria ~ Mrs. Moon ~ pink bud opens and matures to purplish color

So many wonderful verses referring to Creation and the beauty of it abound in the pages of Scripture. The handiwork of God, creation is called. Isaiah 40:6 notes a flower of the field being good, particularly in contrast to a field of grasses. As one walks through a grassy field, you may look down to notice a bright spot, low along the pathway. That little splash of color may cause a moment of quiet reflection. There is something so small and yet so vibrant. Truly it is a thing of beauty. Isn't that just like our God? He will deliver a sparkle in our own path, a bit of His creation to lift us up. That is just how God seems to work. At a time of discouragement, He will give a glimmer of good Hope. At a time of hurt or pain, He will provide a bit of consolation. At a moment of anxiety, He will grant peace. Just at that instant where a cheery bloom is nestled along the common grasses by the way, our Lord feeds our soul by sharing His beauty. "For thou, Lord, has made me glad through thy work" Psalm 92:4.

The Pulmonaria starts grow best if planted in a partially shady area, like under trees or bushes or near a fence. They like sunshine in the spring so they can open to full bloom and appreciate morning light. They do not like hot afternoon heat as they are likely to wilt.  These plants do not grow too well in hot, humid climates; they may suffer from powdery mildew under these conditions. Pulmonaria are lovely shade to semi-shade plants with extra cute early spring flowers with the two toned rosettes.  You absolutely must have spotted greenery in and among your garden flowers -- this will do it.
 

Spring Crocus

Spring Crocus