Rock Climbing in the Hamptons

Miscanthus sinensis rooted (permanently I fear) among capstones of this wall

Last summer, I discovered a new planting bed in my Hamptons garden.  Surprisingly, it was not one of my own making.  Within the crevices of an aging fieldstone retaining wall, offspring of perennials that I did plant elsewhere had started a new colony of there own.  Ferns, astilbes, and even Japanese grasses were adding vertical accents to the mossy facade.

If I had tried to plant these there myself, I know they would have refused.  But these young pioneers must be declaring that if left to their own devices they can and will survive.

I applaud their efforts and would like to parade a picture of these self-reliant kids around the garden this spring as a wake-up call to my many spoiled perennials that have become "delicate little flowers".  Observe these rock climbers that don't require the annual fertilizing compost.  Look how they don't suffer without water-retentive layers of mulch.  Commend their success without daily drip irrigation.  So straighten up pampered perennials.  No more excuses for bad performances.

Here's a shout-out to my wall huggers.  Rock on!

Astilbes and ferns just hanging out