Kentucky Derby Traditions - Planting Flowers

~ click on image to enlarge ~

The whole city of Louisville--and actually all of Kentucky--is in a fever of preparations for Saturday's great Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs.  We have visitors from all over coming to Louisville for the festivities, as well as the millions who watch the race on television. So everyone wants their homes to look extra good.  For most, that means planting flowers now that we're safe from frost.

This morning I stopped by Paul's Fruit and Vegetable Market in Middletown to see what they're selling in annual plants this year.  Paul's is a great place for fresh fruits and vegetables year round and specialty items produced in Kentucky.  At this time of the year they're a good place to buy flowers in great variety as well.

Here are some full sized photos of the most interesting plants--or best photos from today's shoot. Disclaimer:  I'll try to identify the plants, but if I get it wrong just ignore me.  I'm interested in other things now and not quite the keen gardener I used to be. . .

hibiscus

hydrangea

scabiosa

marigolds galore

fuchsia

rex begonia

Asiatic lilies

chenille plant

tuberous begonia

mixed containers ready to go

Here's hoping your Derby horse runs fast and your hat stays dry this Saturday at the Kentucky Derby--and that your flowers look great all summer!