Tendrils

I have a neighbour who decries Virginia creeper, but I like it. I admire its tenacity. Here, it is growing on the outer part of the fence. It flourishes, undisturbed, behind the shed. Between the slats of the fence, I see its pale green fingers seeking out a place to grip



It also seems willing to serve as a host for other creeping things; in the photo above, purple vetch, a wildflower I quite enjoy, has clasped its tight tendrils around the stem of the Virginia creeper.

Another plant in the backyard loves to creep, but this one on the ground. Below is the wildflower known as Creeping Jenny. She has pretty yellow flowers this time of year, and just laughs at us when we try to mow her down.



Creeping Jenny is kept company by Creeping Charlie, an invasive weed that thrives in a sunny corner of the yard. If we were staying in this house I would make that patch my rose garden. We will see.

Last year, my husband attacked a patch of the Creeping Charlie with great vigour. He was quite befuddled when it all grew back a few weeks later. Only vigilance and hard work will keep those weeds at bay.

I'm actually no longer sure if it is Creeping Charlie; with those white blossoms it actually looks like cow parsnip. One of these days I will find out.s

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