“Summer reminds me that growth isn’t always dramatic. Sometimes it’s a hummingbird returning to the feeder, a fresh bouquet on the table, a new sketch taking shape, or an afternoon spent sharing stories on the deck. Progress has its own quiet beauty.”
July has settled gently over our little corner of the Kootenays. The garden has begun to change once again, and while some of spring’s brightest blooms have finished their first performance, others are quietly stepping into the spotlight. Every morning seems to offer something new to notice, whether it’s a flower opening, a butterfly drifting past, or the familiar buzz of hummingbird wings just outside the window.
One of the greatest pleasures of this season has been spending quiet afternoons on the backyard deck with Ivor. Surrounded by birdsong and the soft fragrance of summer blossoms, we’ve found ourselves lingering a little longer outdoors, watching the garden unfold one small moment at a time.
The Garden in July
This month, the Butterfly Bush has become the undeniable star of the garden. Its fragrant lavender blossoms fill the warm afternoon air and seem to call every pollinator in the neighbourhood. Tiger Swallowtail butterflies now drift from flower to flower, while hummingbirds pause to sip from the nectar before darting off again in search of their next meal.
Nearby, the vibrant spikes of Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’ are just beginning to open. Last summer these brilliant scarlet flowers became a favourite gathering place for our hummingbirds, and each new blossom this year brings a little anticipation for the busy weeks ahead. I also tucked several purple Salvias into my deck containers this spring, and they’ve already proven to be another welcome stop for our tiny feathered visitors.
Although the roses have finished their spectacular first flush and the delphiniums have now been carefully deadheaded, the garden is far from finished. New buds are already forming, promising another beautiful display later in the season. One of my favourite tree hydrangeas, ‘Quick Fire,’ is now covered with creamy white blossoms that carry the faintest hint of vanilla on warm afternoons. Watching bees move from bloom to bloom reminds me that every part of the garden has its own season to shine.
From Garden to Sketchbook
It’s impossible to spend this much time watching hummingbirds without wanting to return to my sketchbook.
Over the past few weeks I’ve been refining my hummingbird collection, studying each bird a little more closely and adjusting wing lengths, tail feathers and proportions to better suggest the unique personalities of the five species I’ve chosen to illustrate. While I’m not aiming for scientific precision, I do want each little bird to feel instantly recognizable. At the same time, I love giving them richer colours and a playful spirit that reflects how I experience them in the garden.
There are still more sketches waiting on my drawing table, and I have a feeling these tiny visitors will continue inspiring new collections for quite some time. Stay tuned!
One of my favourite ways to bring the beauty of the season indoors is by gathering a simple bouquet from the garden. Whether it’s fresh hydrangeas, stems of Butterfly Bush, or whatever happens to be blooming that morning, arranging flowers in a favourite vase feels like carrying a little of the garden into the house. Lately, I’ve been enjoying them alongside a set of blue and white dishes that have quickly become part of our summer table. Sometimes it’s the smallest seasonal rituals that make home feel especially welcoming.
A Favourite Summer Lunch
Speaking of summer traditions, one of my favourite lunches this time of year is a simple tuna salad. Some days I pile it onto toasted bread, and other days I serve it over a bowl of fresh greens from the garden. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for warm afternoons when I’d rather be outside than standing over the stove.
I’ve created a printable recipe for you to keep in your own kitchen. If you’d like a copy, you’ll find it just below.
GET YOUR FREE TUNA SALAD RECIPE🥗
As July unfolds, I’ll be continuing work on my hummingbird collection while beginning sketches for a new Backyard Birds series that I’m excited to share in the months ahead. Every sketch begins with careful observation, a little curiosity, and a deep appreciation for the birds that visit our garden each day.
Thank you for spending a little time with me in the garden today.
“In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.”
— John Muir
A Parting Wish
May your summer days be filled with fresh flowers, birdsong outside your window, quiet moments to pause, and simple pleasures shared around the table. Thank you for visiting Lauras Garden Studio. I hope you’ll stop by again soon.
If you’d like more seasonal stories, garden inspiration, and updates from my sketchbook, I’d love to welcome you to The Garden Journal. And if today’s visit inspired you, you’re always welcome to browse the latest bird and garden collections in the shop.
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