July flowers recap

July always feels like a long month - and this year was no different.

I spent most of it waiting and waiting for most of my ‘main season’ stars to finally bloom.

This was the first year that I didn’t see my first full zinnia crop until well into the second half of the month.

But then again, my dahlias were early, so I’d say it balanced itself out.

Perhaps I shouldn’t complain because in addition to the dahlias being early, so were the coveted lisianthus!

Okay, technically they didn’t pop until the very last day — and not enough to include in bouquets — but still!

But the big standout favorite from July was definitely Black Eyed Susan.

It’s formally known as rudbeckia. But my Midwest accent reads that as RUDE-becky-ah. So naturally it’s known to me as Mean Becky.

I’ve grown mean Becky’s the last couple years, but for some dumb reason, I’ve grown them as annuals.

They’re a hardy perennial here — with large blooms atop sturdy stems. And as a farmer in her 40s, the less planting I have to do every year the better!

I planted a whole row of them in February and they were unfazed by constant weather swings. From sunny 60s in the day to crisp 30s at night, they thrived!

I did not expect them to give me such a massive crop this first year, but Go Mean Becky Go!

Two other standouts this year were Sweet William (dianthus) and phlox.

I grew phlox for the first time in 2020 and loved it so much, I planted over a 100 more of these amazing perennials that fall.

But this was the first year they were really tall enough to use for bouquets.

I have one plant outside the garden gate that is just for me — just look how many stems are on it! It is so bushy and smells amazing.

I’m glad I kept this one for me to admire, but I’m also glad to have them to cut on.

They last a long time in the vase, and it appears they’re going to give me a second flush!

The other stand out favorite and new-to-me flower this month was Sweet William (dianthus).

Sweet Will is similar to phlox in that it’s a tall umbell of flower clusters that are highly fragrant.

It’s also long lasting. And while I’ve not always been a huge fan of pink, there’s something to be said for the depth of color.

And last but not least — market bouquets were as plentiful and generous as market customers!

Growing this kind of beauty is one thing - but sharing it is next level.

This really is the best work of my life.

I cannot wait to see what’s in store for August!