Container Inspirations August 24, 2009
Here are several photos of contianer plantings that I found very inspirational while I was strolling through Longwood’s “Idea Garden”. Ideas, indeed! Also there was a kitty curled up on some chairs, taking a nap. I can’t resist a cute garden cat!
Pretty Perennials August 6, 2009
I’m once again a gun for hire, shooting lots of photos for the Curatorial Office at Longwood. Here’s a tapestry of the work I’ve been doing in the perennial beds, logging the blooms of late summer.
April Showers & Some Flowers April 17, 2009
Ah, the sound of shoes squishing through soggy spring soil….
A deluge of rain here in April – almost three inches in 14 days – is making enjoying springtime in the garden a bit challenging. However, after a very dry March – only a quarter of an inch of rain all month – we need the moisture. On one of the few dry days this week, I slipped out into Longwood to take photos of the magnolias, flowering quince, cherries, and tulips. Gorgeous, no?
Quick Pics February 9, 2009
Here are a few additions to the general collection of Longwood pictures on the blog. We had a lovely snow last week that powdered the topiaries like doughnuts.
The giant orchid mobile has been installed over the Patio of Oranges. It was designed by local artist Henry Loustau and is created of stainless steel. With the addition of plants it weighs nearly 1500 pounds. Seven crescent shaped vessels on the mobile hold 70 white Phalaenopsis. I found it absolutely mesmerizing, which I am sure was the intent.
Orchids, Oh My! January 29, 2009
Longwood is in the midst of its annual orchid extravaganza. I took a few minutes out from my hectic class schedule to run into the conservatory and take photos. I hope to get back in with my tripod and marco lens at some point so I can get detailed close-ups that better illustrate how much diversity and out-right wildness is exhibited in this display. For now, enjoy these colorful snapshots in the midst of your cold winter day. And if you’re in the area, I’d say this event is definitely worth a visit!
Floral Design Class January 14, 2009
Nancy’s Biedermeier Design for Class
Tuesday afternoons are my ticket to heaven for the next 12 weeks. I have to pinch myself when I walk into the classroom always stuffed to the gills with buckets and buckets of myriad flowers in dozens of shades and textures. It really is an honor to be under the tutelage of Nancy Gingrich Shenk, a very accomplished and respected floral designer here at Longwood and around the world. Her design skills are inspiring, especially the speed with which she creates an arrangement.
During our time together in the classroom, she is extending to us her knowledge of colors, historical designs, wedding pieces, contemporary trends, and hand bunches. I greatly appreciate Nancy’s commitment to teaching us about sustainable design techniques, namely steering clear of using floral foam whenever possible. To that end, we are learning to design in sand, chicken wire, and simply in a clear vase with a network of stems for support. Thanks to this class, my floral design portfolio is quickly growing and increasing in quality!
Nancy’s Designs and Our Copies
Ice Skating in D.C. December 19, 2008
Here’s a glimpse at what horticulture students do when they want to have fun…go ice skating in D.C. and visit the USBG. Enjoy the precious looks on everyone’s faces!
~
Christmas at Longwood December 7, 2008
Christmas at Longwood Gardens is in full swing. Here’s a slide show of some of the countless pictures I’ve taken. I’ve certainly honed my night photography skills in an attempt to capture the magic.
