What a phenomenal day!!! I think we've walked four dozen miles -- at least it feels like it!
We visited two huge gardens in Charleston, SC - Magnolia and Middleton Plantations, then went downtown Charleston to photograph and study the plantings there. TONS upon TONS of hidden gardens, and the most glorious and creatively planted window and sidewalk boxes. All of our photo cards are FULL, so I'm anxious to download them all (4 cameras worth!!! LOL) when we get back to the office today.
But our own gardens, especially as we (my coworkers and I) discussed the differences in plantings, design, style ...are similiar in many ways. We've used many of the same plants -- like the red knock-out rose that is in full glory in front of the Arboretum Mobile Unit and the red Japanese maple, and the viburnums. I think we (as above) had planted more bulbs -- at least ours are still evident in the flowerless leaves and Charleson's azalea and peak bloom season for spring plantings was at least 2-3 weeks ago ...
It's been a full, informative, and dazzling trip -- so much beauty!!!!!!
When we got back to the motel last night, our feet were so swollen, hot and sore -- but the night was still magically balmy, and we sat by the pool and discussed our findings. I sketched a bit but I haven't had a moment to paint ... later this week, I hope.
Meanwhile, it's another long drive back to work and NC ....
