"The special charm of a Southern spring is its earliness; it is as long drawn out as it is sweet."

Elizabeth Lawrence, A Southern Garden

What a winter it was in Elizabeth Lawrence’s garden! ( I say with great optimism.) Temperatures were generally colder for much longer than I remember in recent years. Although the extended winter chill set blooms back anywhere from two weeks to a month, with the recent prolonged spring warmth, flowers are popping out absolutely everywhere! One can only hope this year's gorgeous Southern spring is long drawn out.

One of the latest discoveries in the garden: an entire stone landing that was hidden under 3-4" of pathway gravel. It is amazing how time changes a garden. Mostly, we think of change in terms of plant material, not in hardscape. Once I uncovered and relaid the landing, it made perfect sense to be there. Yet more testimony to the success of Elizabeth's keen design skill.

Each time I find something new (to me), I get a deeper sense of the meaning of this garden. It's as if Elizabeth is with me, understanding the wonder and delight that this garden brings.

Here are a few pictures of the lovely floral display in Elizabeth Lawrence’s garden over the past few weeks.