What's Blooming (in Puerto Vallarta)

Well, I certainly haven't been deprived of enjoying garden blooms the past couple of weeks! Although it is winter in Puerto Vallarta, the dry season, there is still plenty in flower. I do not know if any of these blooms are native to Mexico. It would be interesting to do some research.

The star bloomer is bougainvillea. Everywhere it climbs balconies and adorns garden gates.

I love the "secret gardens" barely visible through flowering gates, pergolas, and trellises. There is no reason why gardens in the Northeast cannot do the same but it is rare in this region to encounter such gardens. I love to imagine my village using the same techniques, taking advantage of vertical space, creating secrecy (and less snow drift) with gated entrances. Instead of bougainvillea, clematis and morning glory. Each house cloaked in greenery and blooms with mysterious pathways leading to their entry doors.

The potted plants themselves become part of the architecture. Lively plants are tucked into every corner and available space. Imagine this instead of seas of pavement and concrete. Perhaps it is the climate, but I think we can do better in my part of the world. There are now so many hardy miniature evergreens and grasses available. There are so many interesting seed heads that stand up to winter. There are potting materials that can withstand the elements. There can be so much more life to enjoy and view walking down a sidewalk in all seasons.

This was my third year visiting Puerto Vallarta and not my last. I will return. There has been a lot of negative press about Mexico lately and unfortunately, it has hurt the locals who depend on tourist business. I felt perfectly safe in Puerto Vallarta as I always do – much safer than some of our American cities. The native (and relocated) people are some of the kindest, most polite people I have ever encountered. As they like to point out, Mexico is a big country. Would you consider visiting the US Florida keys dangerous if drug wars overran Los Angeles? I wish our media would be more responsible in its reporting.

Garden bloggers' bloom day is hosted by Carol at May Dreams Gardens the 15th of each month. Stop by and add your blog to the list – it's blooming somewhere.