A Story from Lori
Good morning!
Mrs F.D.R., who wishes to be called ‘Eleanor’, has eluded me for nearly ten years. Two different growers had some trouble coughing up a sustainable root. “Crop failure” (aka died in the field), general non-cooperation (she wants to be named in her own right. I don’t blame her). So I finally planted her in a really nice spot (cept for the cracked dryer vent, must see to that. Really homely) and she seemed so happy, lush foliage, no buds. Not a bud. Disappointed, I soldiered on. Last year lots of buds, so happy (see the roller coaster ride here?) she’s going to do it, finally, you can do it Eleanor, you’re so beautiful and I’ve waited so long and….. All the buds died. All of them. Bud blast. Breaks a Peony lover’s heart (shrivel like tiny reddish peas). So this year is the year but you can see how I’ve learned to keep my enthusiasm in check. Some of the leaf edges turned brownish, which made me a bit cautious but the buds looked good and I’ve watched them like a hawk and last night they showed signs of the fullness of unfurling and this morning, in my robe still, I found this beauty (and about 10 more). I am smitten and besotted. Some things are just worth waiting for. Just in time for tomorrow’s heavy rains
