Shades of Green - Backyard Pictures
The Grass Isn't the Only Thing Greener
Growing up in the U.S. Midwest, the arrival of Spring meant new growth with lots of green buds and plantings. Now living in Hawaii for over three decades, I am fortunate to see greenery all year round. Our seasonal changes are very slight here, but of course, I'm not complaining. ;)
There are many shades of green in our backyard though green isn't the only color. I had never laid claim to a green thumb prior to moving here long ago and delightedly I don't need one here. Basically the rule of planting here in Hawaii is dig a hole, plant green side up, brown side down. ;)
(Photo credit Pam Irie)
Bird of Paradise
Of the tropical plantings in our backyard, the Bird of Paradise is truly one of my favorites. It's distinctive style makes it easy to identify amongst the local greenery. It does resemble a colorful bird in flight, doesn't it?
(Photo credit Pam Irie)
Aloe
Many of the residents here in the islands have plantings of aloe. When you've had a little too much sun it's convenient to go into the backyard, slice off a piece of aloe and use the fleshy pulp inside to rub onto your skin. It's very soothing and helps the skin heal much faster.
(Photo credit Pam Irie)
Backyard Plumeria Tree
Plumerias are the official lei flower here in the islands. We "share" this old plumeria tree with a neighbor. In fact, my husband actually cut out portions of our expensive redwood fencing on the property line to accommodate the tree trunk.
(Photo credit Pam Irie)
Fresh Backyard Papaya
Green papaya is the essential ingredient of a local favorite food served here, Chicken Dinola (Filipino Chicken Papaya Soup). The green papaya serves as a form of meat tenderizer for the chicken. This soup is nutritous and really delicious.
The papaya may be picked green or if you prefer wait till it ripens and slice it in half, remove the seeds and squeeze a little lemon juice on the fruit for breakfast. It's a great way to start the day!
(Photo credit Pam Irie)
Hawaiian Ti Leaf
Our cottage is surrounded by Hawaiian ti leaf plants. They are a symbol of good luck here in the islands, so we appreciate not only their simple beauty but the meaning behind them.
We cook with the ti leaf on those occasions when we make yummy, juicy roast kalua pork (see inset pic). The leaves are also used to make ti leaf leis.
(Photo credit Pam Irie)
Green Grey Succulents
At the corner end of our brick paver backyard lanai I have several very large pots of succulents. They started out very tiny and have grown and grown and grown. I love the shades of green in these plantings.
(Photo credit Pam Irie)
Pause for a Poll - Wondering How Does Your Backyard Grow........
Do you have a green thumb?
Coconut Fronds
We have 3 coconut trees growing in our backyard in various stages. In a few years I'll transfer my classic cotton rope hammock from where it's hanging on our lanai to its rightful position beneath the coconut trees. For now it's really nice just sitting under the coconut trees and listening to the green fronds as they sway in the tradewinds.
(Photo credit Pam Irie)
Weaving Coconut Fronds
I would love to hear your thoughts. I'll check back later...... Right now I think I'll make a cup of green tea and sit outside. ;)
