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Although this could very well be a picture of me finding a new treasure at a favorite nursery, it's actually an illustration by David Catrow for a children's book called Plantzilla.

Thursday, November 9, 2017

What's New at Portland Avenue Nursery?

Not this, but the rusty vehicles around the nursery always make me smile. 

These cool new windowed pull down windows are new.  This previously open structure has been part of the nursery for many years but the addition of the doors will give the building more versatility. 

The additional protection will certainly be appreciated by the plants inside.  Will PAN start carrying more tender plants or maybe even branch out into houseplants  in the future?

These succulent combination bowls are showing up just about everywhere these days.


Much of the nursery, usually devoted to perennials, roses, etc. is now empty.   I understand that they bring in Christmas trees after Thanksgiving.   Topiary dolphin sentries guarding the barren ground.

This nursery is always incredibly clean and in fall when gardens and landscapes are their at their messiest, this tidiness stands in stark contrast.


The weeping Atlas Cedar that is trying to conquer the world. 

Cotoneaster berries are especially lovely this time of year. 


Where have all the rhododendrons gone? 

There's still a nice selection of conifers.

And some interesting stuff. 

And some beautiful fall foliage.





Topiary saguaros are the only kind we can grow here.  Tempting. 

One could also adopt a herd of ...what are these? 
Portland Avenue Nursery is located on Portland Avenue in Tacoma, WA and should not be confused with Portland Nursery on Starke Street in Portland, OR which should not be confused with Portland Nursery on Division Street in Portland OR which is completely different from Portland, Maine, Portland, Arkansas, or Portland, Connecticut. 

12 comments:

  1. Hmm. Your post has me wondering what my husband would think if I turned his dumpy old truck into a garden ornament.

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  2. Whenever I see a "weeping Atlas Cedar that is trying to conquer the world" I get a little scared. I have one that is beautifully screening the neighbor's multiple cars in their driveway, but it's a good reminder to be vigilant about pruning the beast regularly. It's hard to match that striking combo with the Cotoneaster berries!

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  3. Oh, to be able to grow an Atlas Cedar that could take over the world! Just a fantasy here so thank you for an amazing image. Love the weeping tree in the photo above the Cedar. Actually love everything you showed at that nursery.

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  4. I was hoping you'd share photos of that BAC...it's crazy!

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  5. That Weeping Atlas Cedar is incredible! And it's always fun to see what folks do with topiaries--very creative! I've always loved Cotoneasters. Mine is struggling along after I trimmed it back and the rabbits took additionaly nibblings. It's always so brilliantly colored in the fall!

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  6. This is another local nursery that I haven't visited in a few years. I think I've actually been put off by the tidiness. They always have an enormous selection during the growing season, though. It'll be interesting to see what they do with that enclosed space.

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  7. OK, I'm glad you clarified which Portland nursery this is and that it is not actually in Portland at all but in Tacoma on Portland Avenue. Right?

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  8. Their layout is sweet. I am with everyone about the cedar trying to take over the world. Even as it does it is quite handsome. A lot to look forward to.

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  9. This recalls for me my couple visits to PNW nurseries when it was cool and damp. Really a horticultural culture there. That would cheer one up as much as our sunshine but without such a culture!

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  10. I wish that the rusting old trucks across the street from us had half the charm of these.

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  11. I pilgrimage to PAN at least once a year. The rusty things are great but the weeping cedar is my fave.

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  12. I do love those old trucks and the tractor.

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Thanks so much for taking the time to comment! I love to hear your thoughts.