Do you ever use the expression, “No, no Nanette!”?  This post title is my take on that famous show.  I have never seen it played on stage but I love the whole concept, that stylish era, and who couldn’t love a play once called, “The happiest show in town”?

Usually this week past in June, I am happily on Nantucket, but this year I was asked to judge Horticulture at the Newport Flower Show.  Nantucket is a very happy place and always has been for my family, but this year – all the happy was in Newport!

Newport R.I.

In the play, there are hints of scandal, misunderstandings and in the end, a wonderful resolution.  At Newport, the horticulture judges come in to judge all the magnificent and wonderful specimens that represent SO much hard work and creativity, BEFORE the opening of the show.  Scandal and intrigue escaped my attention, but I did enjoy the construction and staging of a blissful and beautiful flower show!  And when the curtain went down on the show, I think you could safely say that Newport’s flower show week-end was the happiest place in town!

If you read my last post, you were introduced to Rosa ‘Polaris’.  I was in New Canaan CT last week and made a visit to the most enchanting garden I have ever been privileged to weed and water with my Garden Club pals.

Waveny Walled Garden
New Canaan CT

Enter at the gate, and follow the Rosa ‘Knock Out Red’.  When I planned with three other talented gardeners to rejuvenate this garden over 10 years ago, my choice for the border was this red rose.  At the time, it was fairly new on the market.  Now you see it everywhere.  I still love the choice as it is dependable, ever blooming and does not require all the BAD chemicals that some roses demand. And finally,  I was able to get a photograph of the one and only…..Polaris.

Rosa ‘Polaris’

Is she the most beautiful rugosa?    This blossom would have made a lovely entry at the Newport Flower Show…maybe just remove a few damaged petals….the Horticulture Judge would never know….

Happy Summer!