Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day & Foliage Follow-Up August: Late Summer Garden Views & News!

Welcome!

Welcome to my Long Island zone 7b late summer garden! The beginning of August brought steamy temperatures in the mid to upper 80's accompanied by lots of humidity and pop up thunderstorms, making the temperatures feel even higher. Then the passing by of Tropical Storm Debby brought 4 inches of rain within a few days to the island. After the storm, the days of mid-August bring blue skies and temperatures in the lower 80’s, evenings in the 60's and 70's, and the garden continues with its next round of blooms. Join me for a tour to see what's new! 

Let's Visit for a While!

Now, if you have been here before, the welcoming committee is back again to greet you, and if you are new here...welcome!  It is customary to join them with a hot or cold beverage of your choice and stay and visit for a while. Once you've had some time to relax, we begin the tour!

Platycodon 'Komachi' (Balloon Flower)

The first stop is at the border of the patio where Platycodon 'Komachi' Balloon Flower resides. It is the only variety that remains closed as a "balloon" and is very rare and hard to come by. I have had this one for as long as I can remember, have not seen it sold anywhere since, and am thinking of collecting and cultivating the seeds, but hear it is very difficult. If anyone has grown this cultivar from seed, I could use your advice!

Calluna 'Firefly' (Heather)

New to the garden this summer is Calluna 'Firefly'. What drew my attention to this perennial was its unusual color, and as you know, I am a huge fan of foliage! The deep mauve blooms are just an added bonus! I am looking forward to how the evergreen foliage changes throughout the seasons.

Rhode Island Red Japanese Maple

Planted last summer, the Rhode Island Red Japanese Maple is getting some new growth and is accompanied by Salvia 'Blue By You', with Knock Out Roses in the backdrop.

Back Island Bed

Along the back island bed is Heuchera (Coral Bells) 'Caramel' (left), Ajuga Burgundy Glow (right), and Sedum 'Brilliant', which will bloom a little later in the summer.

Back Island Bed

In the rear of he same bed is Dwarf Butterfly Bush 'Pugster Blue', a hybrid cultivated to be semi-sterile and non-invasive here in the northeast. It stays more compact, growing to just 2-3 feet tall by wide, yet produces a profusion of fully-sized fragrant flowers. 

Allium 'Millenium'

Here is Allium 'Millenium', a later blooming ornamental onion that brings some color and interest to the late summer garden. After seeing it growing in other's gardens, it was a must have! Hardy in USDA zones 4-8, blooms last from mid to late summer. 

Hydrangea 'Limelight Prime'

Moving along to the northwestern side of the back island bed is Hydrangea 'Limelight Prime' from Proven Winners with its amazing white blooms in late summer that take on a pink hue as the flowers mature. Variegated Weigela 'My Monet', Coral Bells 'Palace Purple' and evergreen Hinoki Cypress Compacta join in.

Viburnum 'Summer Snowflake'

Along the back garden bed, Viburnum 'Summer Snowflake' is pushing out another round of blooms for late summer...

Rudbeckia 'Little Goldstar' (Dwarf Black Eyed Susan) 

and Dwarf Black Eyed Susan 'Little Goldstar' is blooming beneath Kousa Dogwood 'Greensleves' in the northern section of the property. Hosta 'Partiot' and 'Minuteman' border along the front of the bed.

Rudbeckia 'Little Goldstar' 

Here are the Dwarf Black-Eyed Susan up close. The nice thing about this plant is that is does not spread, but rather stays as a compact clump.

Pool Border

Along the pool border is a grouping of Holly 'Sky Pencil' and Heuchera 'Caramel'... 

Crape Myrtle 'Sioux'

and Crape Myrtle 'Sioux' is in bloom! Every summer I await the amazing deep pink blooms on this variety.

Knock Out Rose 'Radrazz'

The roses are dealing with the humidity this summer as best as they can. Good old reliable Knock Out Rose 'Radrazz' continues to push out blooms and never disappoints.

Groundcover Sedum Collection

Last year with the pool planting renovation, I added this collection of groundcover Sedum in a tight spot between the rock wall and the pool border. It is filling in nicely and produced yellow blooms back in July.

Front Island Bed Late Summer

Did I mention we have had some humidity and pop up thunderstorms? Well, the Hosta are loving it! They are blooming now and will be joined by the light pink blooms of Sedum 'Pure Joy' within a week or so.

Front Island Bed Late Summer

Here is another view. 

Dipladenia Planter

Last, but not least, the Dipladenia in a container on the back patio is doing beautifully! I get to enjoy it everyday as I sit under the overhang with a cup of tea! 

IN OTHER NEWS: Did you know that I post a monthly Substack newsletter called Northeastern Gardening News? Subscribe here for free to receive monthly updates all to do with gardening! Also, our gardens made it to the Garden Photo of the Day here at Fine Gardening Magazine. Lastly, I was invited to Season 8, Episode 21 of The Gardening with Joey & Holly radio show, as we spoke about gardening in shade! It has certainly been a fun and exciting month in the horticultural world!

Thank you for Visiting!

I hope you enjoyed your visit to my August garden and got to check out my newsletter. I so appreciate you being here, look forward to your comments and enjoy seeing what you have growing in your garden. Special thanks go out to our hostess Carol at May Dreams Gardens, who makes it possible to see blooms on the 15th of every month with her meme Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day. Also, special thanks to Pam Penick at Digging who had hosted Foliage Follow-Up, a meme I will continue to honor. I am also linking with some other wonderful hosts and hostesses at Floral Friday Fotos, Nature Notes at Rambling Woods, Image-in-ing weekly photo share every Tuesday, Weekly Photo Link-Up at My Corner of the World on Wednesdays and Garden Affair at Jaipur Garden. See you next month and do check out my books in the meantime! They make great gifts too! As always...Happy Gardening!

My Author Page

Sharing a Lifetime of Gardening with My Books!  (Garden Design, Planning, Maintenance Tips and more!)

A Guide to Northeastern Gardening: Journeys of a Garden Designer Zones 3-9

Landscape Design Combinations  

Dream, Garden, Grow!-Musings of a Lifetime Gardener

Gardening by Month: A Monthly Guide to Planning the Northeastern & Mid-Atlantic Garden

Shade Gardening for the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic

Author: Lee @A Guide to Northeastern Gardening, © Copyright 2010-2024. All rights reserved. 

This Month in the Garden: Lavender by the Bay: A Blooming Legacy in East Marion, Long Island

Lavender by the Bay, Long Island

Welcome to This Month in the Garden! Nestled in the scenic landscapes of East Marion, Long Island, Lavender on the Bay has become a cherished landmark, drawing visitors from near and far to experience the tranquility and beauty of its purple fields. The history of Lavender on the Bay is a story of vision, passion, and a commitment to sustainable farming practices.

Entrance to the Lavender Farm

Lavender by the Bay, established in 2002, is now the home of over 800,000 lavender plants on the original 17 acre property in East Marion, with an additional 30 acres purchased in Calverton in 2018. Serge Rozenbaum, who was born in France spent his childhood on a farm, then moved to Israel as a young adult where he met his wife Susan. In 1979, Serge, Susan and their two sons moved to Susan's hometown of New York City, and purchased land for a summer getaway in Southhold, New York. It was where Serge designed a lavender dominant landscape to remind him of his childhood days in France, while bringing the charm of  French lavender farms to the shores of Long Island.

A welcoming place for a Photo Shoot!

Over the years the lavender grew profusely with just the perfect conditions of the North Fork's salty air and the lavender fields continue to grow with several hardy species, including Lavandula angustifolia and Lavandula x intermedia, known for their resilience and aromatic qualities. As an elementary school art teacher, Susan started crafting sachets and bouquets from leftover flowers, while Serge took on bee keeping as a side hobby. The demand for lavender and eventually lavender honey grew to the point that the couple needed more land. They found the perfect location in East Marion, Long Island and established Lavender by the Bay.

Sit and Enjoy the View

Word of the farm’s enchanting fields quickly spread, and Lavender on the Bay became a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The Rozenbaum's expanded their operations, planting additional acres of lavender and incorporating other complementary plants such as rosemary and sage. The farm also began producing a variety of lavender-based products, from essential oils and soaps to culinary delights and decorative items.

Live Life in Full Bloom!

Beyond its commercial success, Lavender on the Bay has played a significant role in the community. The Rozenbaum family has been dedicated to educating the public about the benefits and uses of lavender. They host workshops and tours, teaching visitors about lavender cultivation, harvesting techniques, and the plant’s many uses. The farm also collaborates with local schools and organizations, providing hands-on learning experiences for students and promoting environmental stewardship.

Lavender Fields Forever

Sustainability has been a cornerstone of Lavender on the Bay’s operations. The Rozenbaums have implemented eco-friendly practices, including organic farming methods and water conservation techniques. They have also explored innovative uses of lavender, such as natural pest control solutions and soil enhancement methods. These efforts have earned the farm recognition for its commitment to preserving the local ecosystem while maintaining high-quality production standards.

Welcome to the Store!

Lavender on the Bay has had a profound impact on the cultural and economic landscape of East Marion and the greater Long Island area. The farm has become a symbol of local pride, attracting visitors and boosting tourism. It has also created job opportunities and supported local businesses through partnerships and collaborations. Each year a portion of the field entry fee is donated to various groups, spreading the love of lavender throughout the community.

For a Love of Lavender

As Lavender on the Bay continues to flourish, the Rozenbaum family remains dedicated to their original vision of creating a serene, beautiful space for people to connect with nature. They are exploring new varieties of lavender and expanding their product line, always with an eye toward sustainability and quality. With each passing year, the farm’s legacy grows, rooted in a deep love for lavender and a commitment to enriching the lives of all who visit.

More Lavender! 

While exploring the farm, you will experience two types of lavender, English with a sweeter fragrance and vibrant purple flower and French with a stronger fragrance, slightly duller coloration, and taller bloom. Typically, English Lavender will bloom from mid-late June, while some varieties of English Lavender will bloom at the end of the summer into early fall. French lavender blooms in the beginning of July, peaks for about two weeks then extends into the end of July. Both types have their fragrance and attributes.

Lavender and Yarrow Dried Flowers 

Lavender on the Bay is more than just a farm; it is a living testament to the power of passion and vision. From its humble beginnings to its status as a beloved local landmark, the farm embodies the spirit of Long Island—resilient, innovative, and deeply connected to the land. As it continues to bloom, Lavender on the Bay will undoubtedly remain a cherished part of East Marion’s history and a beacon of natural beauty for generations to come.

You are where you need to be...Just Breathe!

I hope you enjoyed This Month in the Garden. Be sure to stop by on the 1st. and 15th. of each month as I continue to share gardening tips, information and horticultural adventures! 

 Plan your Garden with my Books! 

A Guide to Northeastern Gardening 

Landscape Design Combinations

Dream, Garden, Grow!-Musings of a Lifetime Gardener 

Gardening by Month: A Monthly Guide to Planning the Northeastern & Mid-Atlantic Garden

Shade Gardening for the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic

"As Always...Happy Gardening!" 

Author: Lee @A Guide to Northeastern Gardening, © Copyright 2010-2024. All rights reserved. 

Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day & Foliage Follow-Up July: Let the Blooms Continue!

Welcome!

Welcome to my Long Island zone 7b garden. It’s mid-summer and Hydrangea and Coneflower are the stars for this month! With a rather mild past winter, a cool spring and temperatures rising into the mid to upper 80’s for July with plenty of rain so far, the blooms are more robust than ever. Now with a sudden burst of higher temperatures and humidity, some of the blooms are even earlier than usual. Join me for a tour! 

Hello Hydrangea ‘Nikko Blue’!

The two previous winters before the 2024 season brought temperatures in the teens to single digits to the northeast for several nights in a row, virtually destroying any buds that the hydrangea had formed. Fellow gardeners were experiencing the same hardship, a lack of blooms and the old fashioned hydrangea, especially 'Nikko Blue', were hit the hardest since they bloom on the previous years growth. This is the year of the hydrangea we have been waiting for, as the conditions were perfect and the blooms are magnificent! 

Hydrangea ‘Tokyo Delight’

Here along with ‘Nikko Blue’ Hydrangea is Hydrangea ‘Tokyo Delight’ with its delicate lace cap blooms in shades of pink, while and blue. The foliage of evergreen Juniper ‘Gold Lace’ adds some contrast  against the blooms of hydrangea and within the next few days to a couple of weeks, the Crape Myrtle and Dwarf Butterfly Bush in the same planting bed will display their blooms. Stay tuned!

Echinacea ’Cheyenne Spirit’ (Coneflower)

The other pride and joy in the garden this year is Echinacea ‘Cheyenne Spirit’ in the pool border. This hybrid with its blooms of multiple colors on the same plant is more robust than ever! 

Echinacea Pow Wow ‘Wild Berry’’

Another variety of Coneflower is Echinacea Pow Wow ‘Wild Berry’ growing in the patio border and accompanied by columnar Japanese Maple 'Twombly's Red Sentinel’, Juniper ‘Blue Star’, Spirea ‘Candy Corn’, Lamb’s Ear and Hemerocallis (Daylily) 'Parden Me'.

Pool Border

In another view along the pool border is  Astilbe 'Sprite' with its delicate light pink blooms that appear later in summer, along with groundcover Stonecrop (Sedum 'Angelina') and another view of Echinacea 'Cheyenne Spirit'.

Echinacea Pow Wow 'Wild Berry'

I just cannot get enough of these Echinacea blooms, so here's another close up view!

Calluna 'Firefly' (Heather)

This Calluna 'Firefly' is a new addition of Heather that I added to the back walkway area this summer. It is one of the most colorful Heathers I have encountered with pretty magenta blooms, which are just starting to appear now in mid-summer. This plant is evergreen with changing colorful foliage that deepens to bronze in winter and grows to just 18-20 inches tall by wide. 

 Hydrangea Let's Dance 'Loveable'

Here is Hydrangea Let's Dance 'Loveable' (hardy in USDA zones 5-9) from Proven Winners and yes...it is loveable! I have been growing this re-blooming beauty in a planter for two years now on my patio and it has thrived throughout the winter months and produces beautiful deep pink blooms that persist throughout summer.

Daylily 'Pardon Me'

While Hydrangea and Coneflower are having a banner year, daylilies are holding their own too. Here is Daylily 'Pardon Me' with its colorful blooms.

Southern Pool Border

In the southern pool border, Allium 'Millenium' is starting its blooms along with evergreens Golden Japanese Yew and Rhododendron, spring/early summer blooming Spirea 'Goldmound' and Astilbe 'Visions' and Nepeta 'Walkers Low'.

Another View!

In this view is Variegated Boxwood and a closer look at the Nepeta 'Walkers Low', which has been blooming all summer.

Back Island Bed: Hydrangea 'Limelight Prime'

Another hydrangea is starting its bloom. It is Hydrangea 'Limelight Prime', which produces greenish white blooms that mature to white then fade to pink. It is accompanied by evergreens Hinoki Cypress 'Compacta' (left), Dwarf Mugo Pine (right) and 'Palace Purple' Coral Bells.

Salvia 'Blue by You'

Here is Salvia 'Blue by You'! It is a new cultivar of sage which has just hit the nurseries within the last couple of years. I find it starts its blooms earlier in the season, blooms longer and is more robust.

Ornamental Onion 'Millennium'

Circling back around to the pool border, here is Allium 'Millenium' close up with its rosy-purple blooms. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and prefers sun to part sun...

Lilium 'Stargazer'

and check this out! My 'Stargazer' Lilies are blooming two weeks earlier than usual!

Dipladenia

This Dipladenia was a gift and I get to enjoy it everyday on my patio. I have always loved these plants! Helpful Tip:  Mandevilla and Dipadenia look very similar and are hard to distinguish apart when small. Mandevilla is more of a climbing plant and will need a trellis to grown on while Dipladenia has a more compact, clumping habit.

Fig Tree!

Here is a fun story. My husband bought this fig tree online and when it arrived it was a tiny little cutting about four inches tall. After three months and two pot upgrades, look at it now! 

Herb and Tomato Planter

This herb/vegetable planter is also new this year and has proven to be a good purchase. The basil, parsley and tomatoes are growing like crazy and producing great crops! Spearmint and Chives join the mix in their separate containers.

Heuchera (Coral Bells) for the Patio

Last, but not least, I am trying something new. I have a client who grows Heuchera (Coral Bells) in wooden planters and they have overwintered for years. I just did the same with these Heuchera 'Palace Purple' to add some color and interest to the patio area. I am hoping to have the same success.

Thanks for Visiting!

I hope you enjoyed your visit to my July garden. I so appreciate you being here, look forward to your comments and look forward to seeing what you have growing in your garden. Special thanks go out to our hostess Carol at May Dreams Gardens, who makes it possible to see blooms on the 15th of every month with her meme Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day. Also, special thanks to Pam Penick at Digging who had hosted Foliage Follow-Up, a meme I will continue to honor. I am also linking with some other wonderful hosts and hostesses at Floral Friday Fotos, Nature Notes at Rambling Woods, Image-in-ing weekly photo share every Tuesday, Weekly Photo Link-Up at My Corner of the World on Wednesdays and Garden Affair at Jaipur Garden. See you next month and do check out my books in the meantime! As always...Happy Gardening!

My Author Page

Purchase My books! 

A Guide to Northeastern Gardening: Journeys of a Garden Designer Zones 3-9

Landscape Design Combinations  

Dream, Garden, Grow!-Musings of a Lifetime Gardener

Gardening by Month: A Monthly Guide to Planning the Northeastern & Mid-Atlantic Garden

Shade Gardening for the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic

Author: Lee @A Guide to Northeastern Gardening, © Copyright 2010-2024. All rights reserved.