Last year I planted white iris on either side of the chemin d’eau, that runs the length of our garden in front of the farmhouse. This was not the first time I had tried my luck with these beauties but for many reasons they were never successful. It seemed odd to me that a flower, so typical of this region, would not grow in the heart of my Provence. The problem and one I am sure gardeners are very familiar with, was that of drainage and water logged soil… we are very fortunate to have an abundance of water on our property… but not when it comes to growing iris.
Not to be defeated… at great effort, we dug the trenches, improved the drainage and planted the bulbs. This year, they have flowered prolifically in front of the house… and I think have added a beautiful perspective to the lawn. At the same time last year, I planted iris either side of our driveway… we dug the trenches, planted the bulbs and did everything but kiss the earth… maybe that was my mistake… those white headed lovelies decided that this year that would not be making an appearance… That’s nature for you… you never know what she is thinking… xv
