February is the busiest time of year for me. I start planting our
spring crops during the whole month of February while fighting availabilities,
cold weather and even the occasional plants showing up two weeks early. But,
even though this entire month I feel like I am running around like a chicken
with its head cut off, it is completely worth it. Because I get to do the best
part of my job every day. I get to walk through all of my houses
and check on my baby perennials. I look for everything from cold damage to
fungus spores forming on the new leaves. Sometimes I even sing to them in
French. The plants might not want to me do that but they don't really have a
choice. Below are some pictures of some perennials that were potted last
week.

This
first picture is of Sedum Sunsparkler Dazzleberry. It will turn into a deep
purple when it gets warmer outside. It is a great plant to have as a statement
piece in a garden because the interesting foliage color and the breathtaking
color of its blooms.

Then I have a tried and true favorite for our customers. This is Salvia May Night that is blooming right now. I really enjoy watching this plant growing because it starts so small and then turns into this little monster that completely fills its pot and has 3-5 blooms on each plant in a matter of weeks. It is like seeing a kindergartener turn into a high schooler in a few weeks.

Last but not least, I have our Lavandula Munstead. Lavandula is always something that I enjoy growing because the foliage smells lovely and the flowers give a wonderful calming feeling during the growing season. Whenever I go to check on this little guy, it reminds me of the natural remedies that the flowers and scent from this plant have to offer.
By Jessi Faircloth, Assistant Grower, Loma Vista Nursery