What to plant now?

We've had the branches that crashed on our roof cleaned and branches from trees over our roof removed. We also took this opportunity to have some dead trees and stumps removed from the front yard. As a result, we are left with a garden full of dirt! Though I like that I can put whatever I want, within reason, I am not sure what to do.

I am thinking an evergreen or two to the left of the wall, possibly yews. This path leads nowhere except to the gas metre so it does not have to look pretty.

As for the rest of the garden, on the left side that is now dirt, I am not sure. I want low maintenance. Rose of Sharon? Bridal Wreath Spirea? Blue Beard Shrub? Some hostas?

Suggestions would be appreciated! Please comment if you have some ideas.

Spring & Ice Storm Clean Up Begins!

Weather Extreme

This past winter, for the first time in my memory, which is now considerable, we had an ice storm in the GTA. It was eerie and wondrous at the same time. Trees were completely covered in ice. When a breeze blew the branches crackled. They glittered in the winter light. Then the sickening sound of branches breaking under the weight of ice would start. You can watch it here.

 Can you hear the branches and ice crackling?

The Aftermath

Beautiful mature trees downed

Branches on our roof

The branches on the road were cleaned up by the city within a couple of weeks, but the branches on our property still need to be removed. Tomorrow is the big day! Not only are we having the branches removed we are having some trees and other bushes removed.

In a way we are starting with a new slate. A blank canvas.

We had snow again in mid April.  I know, however, that winter will not win! The daffodils, tulips and other spring blooming perennials are starting to peek out of the earth.

By the way, if anyone out there thinks climate change does not exist then they are in denial. This extreme weather and polar vortex that lasted for two months here in Ontario, Canada was a first and proof to me that climate change is a reality.