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May
1, 2009
Spring Beauty...Kellie's Garden By BUDDY
SWAIN
 When the soil begins to warm from winter’s passing, we see the awakening of many plant species sporting colorful adornments that we of the human species call flowers. For many, these are nothing more than lovely ornamentations that often times last for too short a period of time. But for the plants, the flower is the most common reproductive organ; a place where sperm and egg unite in order to produce fruits and seeds. Generally speaking, the plants of Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands do not model the colorful array of spring’s awakening like those living on the mainland of coastal North Carolina. The harsh environment of these islands with its almost never ending wind frequently mists the plants with salt spray or inundates them with tidal floods which can often mean death to plants not adapted to such conditions. It would certainly wreak havoc to those plants seen on the mainland that are strutting their floral displays this time of year. However, if one hunts long enough on the islands, every now and then, he may find a micro environment protected from the unforgiving elements of this high energy coast where one can experience a visual titillation of botanical beauty. Such is the case with Kellie Fagley’s garden in Hatteras village. And the best way to enjoy this treasure is on one’s hands and knees with one’s nose as close to the blossoms as one’s eyes can focus. From this perspective, come and join me for a seasonal treat from Gaia herself. Warning: This photo essay spotlights sex organs (stamen and carpels) and the clothes that adorn them (petals and sepals) as they relate to the aesthetics of the reproductive structures sported by our botanical friends.  (Buddy Swain is a retired educator, photographer and a contributor to The Island Free Press.) |
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