This past weekend I went to Bloedel Reserve on a whim. I was going to Bainbridge Island for a garden design and figured I’d stop for a visit. The day was completely scheduled out with things to do, so I allotted 2 hours for the visit. While there, I found myself wishing I had all day to reflect, contemplate, and watch the changing light.
I’m so happy that I can move my feet. So that when I want to touch raindrops or sun, I can just move out from underneath whatever is blocking me.
The light, this day, was amazing. It waned slowly from buttery yellow to grey and back again. I found myself holding my breath waiting for the glow of sun through clouds to come back as if the sun demanded silence in order to return. The breeze was also surprising. It wasn’t strong but it was steady and made me wonder how it could sneak through this wooded area and still be so consistent or what the wood was protecting me from on the outside.
Oemleria cerasiformis: Indian Plum
Is that sunshine behind me?
I love elevated boardwalks through forest. It allows you to look around more without worrying about stepping on a banana slug.
This willow positively glowed. The fact that it came out in a photo glowing is just that much more amazing since subtleties in light are so difficult to capture (for me anyways) with a camera.
After about a mile of walking through woods and meadow, I walked out of the forest to get this glimpse of the French château inspired home. Hopefully the lawnmowers have an easier time getting here.
Paulownia tomentosa: Empress tree- one of my faves
This Empress tree has such a wonderful structure. I recommend it if you have a lot of room- or a château lying around that needs that extra something.
Corkscrew hazelnut!!!
Corylus avellana 'contorta': Corkscrew Hazel (I think)
Those catkins look good enough to eat!
I love this arrangement made with clippings from the reserve.
Acer griseum: Paperbark maple
Hellebores surrounded banks and were planted high enough that I could enjoy the blooms. Thank you Bloedels for thinking of that.
Violet and Chartreuse- so lovely.
Somehow I don’t think this vista is an accident. We are approaching the Japanese garden.
I love the mounding and massing of earth and plants here. I love the depth and movement.
Moss Garden
Rhododendrons taking off. Like pretty UFOs.
This reflection pond is iconic and one of the spaces that drew me to visit this space. Unfortunately, by the time I came to this, I was running through to get to my appointment. Serenity and reflection will have to be postponed. 2 hours are just not enough time here. I would say 3.5 would’ve been perfect. Visit sometime. The reserve is now open to the public on consistent and reliable days and times.
