The sun has been shining for almost 3 weeks here in the Puget Sound area. This is very rare for May and the result-beautiful gardens. We often get a lot of spring rain which shortens the life of Rhododendron and Lilac blooms. And after our coldest winter in 70 years I think both the human and plant residents in the area are all experiencing a type of ecstasy I would describe as bumble bees intoxicated by pollen.
I still have not set out all my Tomato starts though they are very lush and growing happily in 1 gallon pots in the greenhouse. 
And am still working to find spots in the garden to place all the wonderful varieties of squash and cucumbers I started this year. I have been harvesting lettuce for a few weeks now and will probably donate some to the local food bank as well as share some with friends and neighbors. My peas are finally starting to flower so it won't be long till the delicious sweet pods can be harvested.
Pictured here the garden and greenhouse a few days ago.
All 6 of my rain barrels are empty already so I am actually hoping for a bit of rain soon. Though this week the forecast is for more sun and will be nearly 80 today. I enjoy using the water harvested off the roof to hand water the pots in the greenhouse and the starts that are set out in the garden.
I am waiting with anticipation for my Mock Orange's to bloom. The blossoms are swelling and soon they will burst open with a scent so sweet that it knocks me over. Old fashioned Mock Orange/Philadelphus coranarius is not a very attractive plant, kind of tall and leggy and much too large for most city gardens. I prefer to use the gold leaved variety Philadelphus coranareus 'Aurea' pictured here.
Gold foliage plants really brighten up the garden though this plant does tend to lose its vibrancy later in the summer. Mock Orange is also a fairly drought tolerant plant once established so is a good choice for Puget Sound gardens especially if you like fragrant plants.
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