I have recently been thinking about what role light plays in my garden. Within the last year at two different botanical gardens I was struck by what an impact a leaf can make when illuminated by sunlight. Up till now I have been crowding my plants together and considering light conditions only to the extent of the individual plants needs. This impact of illumination might be another important reason why I need to aim to control my spring impulse to over plant a garden. When I think of my New England garden and the topic of illumination of plants I find myself limited to the play between variegated/gray leafed plants and full sun. The one plant that comes to mind the most in my garden is Caryopteris divaricata 'Snow Fairy' it really strikes a nerve with me and I often have said is garish and too busy, but it lights up the landscape like a bare 100 watt bulb. I wonder if there is a plant in your garden that you have been awe struck by the suns reflection? What lights your fire? kt
Fan Palm @ Mckee Botanical Garden, Vero Beach, Fla
