Impressionist Spring Colors

by Ariane ~ November 23, 2012

While Giverny is closed for the winter, the gardeners of Fondation Monet are busier than ever. They are getting Monet’s gardens ready for next spring. After pulling out the annuals and cutting the perennials down to ground, they prepare the soil and start the planting. Thousands of bulbs must be planted as soon as possible, preferably before frost.

The beds in front of Monet’s home obey the same color schemes every year. Enormous tulips in different shades of pink combine with blue forget-me-not. The trick is to choose a palette of tones ranging from apricot to mauve to obtain an illusion of brushstrokes. The effect lasts longer than expected because early and late blooming tulips are used together.  A row of dianthus surrounds the beds.

Next to these most impressive pink tulip beds, a border made with different kinds of yellow wallflowers  offers a strong contrast in terms of color, size and shape. This border located under the pink blossom of three crab apple trees is partly shaded. Mauve blue bells scattered among the wall flowers produce an effect of shade and sunshine. The border is lined by white daisies. Last spring the gardeners added white tulips, for a very fresh result.

3 Responses to “Impressionist Spring Colors”

  1. Derek Harris Says:

    I have know the garden at Giverny for many years as a professional photographer. I produced with Random House Publishers in the 80’s a very successful book on the gardens of Giverny which sold 174,000 copies and I also produced stationary and calendars for the shop. I do enjoy watching the subtle changes in planting and do really like the ‘new’ pastel shades that your new head gardener has introduced. Please can you tell me his name.

    Thanking you in anticipation. Derek Harris

  2. Ariane Says:

    The head gardener of Giverny is Mr. James Priest.

  3. Lee Parker Says:

    I am looking for a DVD(s) or failing that a “coffee table” photography book(s)

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