Ryan's Pink

Gotta tell you about a neat plant that isn't part of the container plans but it had such a "wow" factor that it needed to be mentioned.  Chrysanthemum x morifolium 'Ryan's Pink'....take a look.....

Is that not one happy looking flower....

At this time of the year when we see mountains of mums at all the local nurseries, box stores and even grocery stores, this one stands proud.  It may not be as easy to find as the ordinary white, yellow or red mums, but please look for it and put it in your garden.  In the back of the border though as it does get tall -- up to 3 feet when it is happy.  Although you can keep it in check by pruning it several times during spring and early summer.  Leave it alone by July 4 and it will give you mountains of big blooms in the fall.  And guess who else will be happy with your choice....butterflies.  As their season ends and they are looking for food this will be one happy landing spot. 

My good friend, Chris Stewart -- owner, along with her husband Chuck, of the wholesale nursery Tapestry here in Madison -- is a butterfly's best friend.  She grows, and shares, anything they want to eat and host on.  She is the one who has shared this great plant with me.  They sell to most of the local retails stores here and in Atlanta so call around and see who has this gem. 

 

 

And....after the butterflies have dined on this, you can cut a bouquet for your dinner table when you are ready to dine.   It is a great passalong plant too....grow a batch and share it.