Since my Oasis is still mostly open country, it is fun seeing all the different cloud formations, sunrises, and sunsets.
As the Oasis gets further along and more enclosed with trees, this is one special feature I may not see as much.
Raising Children in Iowa
When walking along the pond, it is common seeing Canadian Geese with their fast-growing children.
The Goslings start looking like miniature versions of their parents. Attracting waterfowl is one of the main reasons I like ponds.
Sweet Scarlet Goumi Fruit
Sweet Scarlet Goumi bush is full of red fruit right now.
I like this fruit more than its relative, the Autumn Olive. The fruit is similar tasting, but is larger and produces early in the season when there is not as many fresh fruit options.
White Rugosa Rose
There are many different colors of Rugosa Roses that I am adding to my collection.
This cultivar of the Rugosa Rose has white flowers. By fall, I should have some Rose hips on this bush. They contain a thin layer of fruity flesh that I like to consume.
Cherry Season Starts
Cherries are ripening sooner than most years.
Balaton Cherry is the earliest ripening Sour Cherry cultivar I have.
Rose Garden
An old line of Roses continues to persist year after year, with many flowers come June.
I’ve been planting these Roses in more areas on the farm. The two colors they come in are light and dark pink.
Big Ball Chinese Dogwood
Big Ball Chinese Dogwood is a cultivar noted for having bigger fruit than the species.
My small tree is loaded with flowers, so I am hoping to get fruit for the first time this year.
Iowa Climbing Rose
When given the option, the Multiflora Rose will climb some on the surrounding vegetation.
It is not a true climber, but this Rose bush has gotten more vertical than they normally do.
Lump on the Log
A common summer sight on the pond:
Snapping Turtles are frequently sunbathing on logs. There is also another Turtle that frequents this pond, the Painted Turtles.
Grace Smokebush
Grace Smokebush had some problems early in its life. It would have sudden dieback in late summer. But now is appearing to have resolved that problem on its on and starting to get taller.
The leaves so far have been a great asset, gaining attention and adding contrast to the landscape.