Greetings from Earthen,

 

Summer in Central Oregon is here, along with one of our favorites, the stunning Douglas Spirea! With its vibrant pink clusters, this native shrub is not just eye candy but a bonus for pollinators.

 

Not everything is as hardy and forgiving as the Douglas Spirea, though. Central Oregon’s dry summer can be tough on plants. We suggest deep watering early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation. You might want to add a layer of mulch to retain soil moisture and keep roots cool. Regular weeding will also help reduce competition for nutrients and water, promoting healthier plants.

 

The Full Buck Moon, named for the time when male deer begin to grow their antlers, is on July 21. It will provide a perfect backdrop for evening garden strolls. Those strolls may be even more pleasant if you remember to eliminate any standing water around your home. Regularly check and empty items like birdbaths, plant saucers, and gutters to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.

 

At the same time, you might consider creating a Pollinator Watering Hole. Place a shallow dish filled with stones and fresh water in your garden. Wash and refill it regularly to provide a safe drinking spot for bees, butterflies, and birds.

 

We don't recommend feeding sugar water or using hummingbird feeders, though. Incorrect sugar ratios, improper storage, and lack of sanitation can cause severe harm or death to hummingbirds. Instead of feeders, we suggest planting native flowers that attract hummingbirds. In Central Oregon, consider Red Columbine, Penstemon, and Scarlet Gilia. These flowers provide natural food sources and are much safer for the birds.

 

July Botanical Spotlight: Douglas Spirea | Spiraea douglasii   

 

Douglas Spirea, also called Hardhack, is a native deciduous shrub. It's unique clusters of small, pink flowers form elongated, cone-shaped panicles that create a lush, cascading effect late spring through summer. It thrives in wetter areas, making it perfect alongside streams. Plant it in a sunny spot, and it will reward you with minimal fuss and maximum bloom.

 

- Plant in full sun to partial shade. Douglas Spirea thrives with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.

- Prefers moist, well-drained soil. It adapts well to a variety of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.

- Water regularly during the first year to establish a strong root system. Once established, it can tolerate occasional drought but benefits from regular watering.

- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage growth. Remove dead or weak branches to improve air circulation.

- Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

- Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support robust growth and blooms.

 

Wishing you an abundance of minimal fuss and maximum bloom.

 

Stay Grounded,

Mike