President Grevy (the lilac) is putting on a real show for the first time

President Grevy (Common Lilac Syringa vulgaris) has been a resident at Rosehaven Cottage for 10 years now. But like many common lilac breeds, Mr. President doesn't necessarily do well in our mild winters and would prefer the stress of a very cold and frosty winter in order to set buds for a spectacular springtime show. Think New Hampshire and that's what it wants. It's why the lilac is the state flower of New Hampshire.

I finally found mild-winter breeds of lilacs that love residing here, but never had the heart to give President Grevy an eviction notice despite its rather pathetic existence (it should be close to 10-14 feet tall by now).

I continued to cultivate around it and a few years ago eventually planted roses on its southwest side--a Tahitian Sunset and a Hot Cocoa. The Tahitian Sunset must have gotten settled in quite nicely because it took off last year and towered over the rest of the plants in that corner of the garden despite minimal irrigation. Because my health began to decline in August, the roses were allowed to grow and grow. The Tahitian Sunset was thrilled. And, apparently, so was President Grevy. It liked the cool shade afforded by its towering neighbor, I guess... so much so that Mr. President is putting on quite a springtime show for us.