Mid-June in Maine

June has arrived in Maine, and my garden is bursting into bloom—even if it’s a bit wilder than I meant it to be. 

Between a rainy spring and a busy few weeks, I’ve fallen behind on the weeding and trimming, but nature hasn’t minded one bit. 

I’ve planted pots of herbs, lilac petunias, red begonias, and dusty miller around the edges and on the deck. 

 

The Siberian irises are standing tall in the breeze, the phlox is starting to spread, the wild rambling roses are blooming, and the peonies are opening. My old rhododendrons are having a good year too.

The overgrown look seems to suit the wildlife just fine. A female cardinal has made her nest atop the arbor, hidden among the grapevines and climbing roses. She doesn't mind when I walk by. However, the house wrens have strong opinions about me being anywhere near their corner of the garden. They scold and chirp loudly whenever I step too close—but they keep coming back year after year, so they must not mind me too much.

Just this morning, I saw a tiny garter snake near the lilac bushes. I also heard the soft chatter of wren babies, tucked safely away in their birdhouse while their parents dart in and out feeding them.

 

It’s noisy, chaotic, and full of life out there, and even though the weeds are creeping in and the garden paths are a bit less defined than I’d like, I feel grateful.

 

There’s something special about a garden that’s alive with blooms, bugs, birds, harmless snakes, and, of course, the ever-present squirrels and chipmunks.

 

Now I’ll be rolling up my sleeves and getting back to it—cutting back a few things, staking what’s falling over, and giving the garden my attention. 

But I’ll be careful not to disturb the little families who’ve made their homes here. After all, they were here first this season, and I’m just the lucky one who gets to share the space.

 

GARDENING IN A TINY COTTAGE, CONDO OR STUDIO APARTMENT

  THE FRONT DOOR GARDEN

A new state, a new downsized spot to garden for the time being. I moved a few months ago to be closer to family and friends not far from the beautiful Chesapeake Bay. To a small, friendly, coastal town where the streets are named after the American Revolution, and all types of Victorian houses line the historical streets. 

Like many of you, I have had to move and downsize my garden to be closer to friends and family. I am also off to a late gardening start  this year. There’s always an adjustment period when you move and begin gardening in a different location or part of the country. My last garden in Northern California, where the climate was mild, and the growing season was long. Now, I’m getting my bearings in the Mid-Atlantic region — and it’s a whole new adventure.

 

 

Shifting Seasons: Learning the Local Climate

One of the first things I had to do was look up the average first and last frost dates for this area. In Northern California,  I barely had to worry about frost, but here, it’s a different story. In the Mid-Atlantic, the last frost can hit as late as mid-April, and the first frost may come by late October. That changes everything — when to start seeds, what to direct sow, and how to time my harvests. 

Starting Over: What I’m Considering Before Planting

Before I put anything in the ground, I’m taking time to assess and plan. Here's what I’m focusing on:

🧪 Soil Conditions

The soil here is much heavier — more clay-based — compared to the loose, well-draining soil I was used to in California. I’ve started testing the pH and texture and am amending with compost, aged manure, and a bit of sand to loosen it up where needed.

🌧️ Rain and Humidity

Mid-Atlantic summers are more humid and bring more rainfall than I’m used to. This means I need to keep an eye out for fungal diseases and over-watering. I’ll be mulching heavily to help with moisture balance and weed control.

☀️ Sunlight Patterns

Every garden has its own rhythm. With more tree cover and different angles of sunlight, I’ve been tracking sun exposure throughout the day to choose the best spots for full-sun crops like tomatoes and peppers.

🐞 Local Pests and Wildlife

I’ve already heard about Japanese beetles, squash bugs, and deer — none of which were major concerns in North California. I’m brushing up on natural pest deterrents and thinking about fencing to protect my young plants.

🌸 What Grows Best Here

One of my favorite things about gardening is connecting with locals and learning what thrives in each unique environment. This year, I’ll be leaning into native plants, pollinator-friendly flowers, and hearty vegetables that are proven winners in this zone.

Growing Through Change 

Gardening in a new region is a humbling experience — but also an exciting one. It’s a chance to learn, experiment, and reconnect with the rhythm of the land. While I’m still figuring things out, I’m grateful to have my hands back in the dirt and to be growing roots in this new community — both literally and figuratively. 

Are you gardening in a new zone this year too? What adjustments have you made? I’d love to hear how you’re growing through the change. 🌼💚 Next week I will decide where to garden. I obtained a community garden plot, but may have to give it up due to some challenges. The only other spot I have to garden is a tiny area by my front door.  I also intend to make a gardening plan, shop for plants and plant them. Playing Catch up for the season.

Let us know what is happening in your garden and where you live? What's the weather like now? Have you finished planning and planting your garden? Have you had to downsize and do you have any tips?

Caroline is also off to a late start and due to a busy summer including her sons wedding she is also planning on downsizing her coastal garden in Maine.  She will be posting soon.