Lipstick Red

Go to your wardrobe right now and pick out something red to wear this coming Friday, February 5th. Right now - go on - I'll wait. . . .

Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women. Wear red and speak up against heart disease for yourself and others. Say "No" to unhealthy behaviors such as smoking and lack of exercise. Know the signs of heart disease and heart attack in women - they are often different than for men. Listen to your body and be aware. Heart attack symptoms: http://www.goredforwomen.org/

Wearing the color red does catch your attention and it does the same in your garden.

Red looks good as a single show or mixed with other colors.

I've shown three easy reds in my pictures. The red burning bush, daylily, and bee balm.

I have two burning bushes. One is a stand alone beside my wildflower patch. It adds a punch of color when the rest of the garden is winding down. The other is part of a crescent of trees and bushes all having shades of red leaves. This group forms a backdrop for many other colored flowers.

I have bee balm (both red and pink) scattered here and there among other perennials. They are a major attraction for butterflies and hummingbirds. Mine aren't invasive and look good for the cottage style.

Red daylilies are everywhere. Amazingly, they look good with every other color. They brighten an all green space and dull areas. They contrast nicely and come in many shapes and sizes.

Besides true red it comes in shades varying towards pink, purple, and orange. It warms and brightens the garden. Red draws the eye towards where it stands (or away from something more unsightly.)

As you think about things for your spring 2010 garden, think some red. As you wear that red clothing Friday, thing about your heart. Both will benefit you for years to come.