As I walk about the Priory gardens, I am watched. When deep in thought (it happens), I might suddenly look up and be quite startled. These four made me jump - but then it doesn't take much. Margaret's cattle are part of the summer scene at the Priory; mooing loudly (and often very unnecessarily), drifting … Continue reading An End To May
Conservation
Canada Geese
Canada geese are a rare and shy visitor to the Priory. But this year a pair have arrived who don't fly off, honking, when I appear. Introduced from North America and considered a pest by many, I certainly wouldn't want large numbers of them arriving - and the droppings they would produce. These two alone … Continue reading Canada Geese
Butterfly Conservation Membership Offer
When I took the job as gardener at the Priory one of my primary aims was to help sustain the rich wildlife in the gardens and, if possible, to attract even more. And like most people, I was particularly keen to attract as many butterflies as possible. Adding certain plants for butterflies to feed on, … Continue reading Butterfly Conservation Membership Offer
Berlin Zoo
You may remember that last April, my brother and I spent some time in Poland before jumping on a train at Gdańsk and trundling westward to my favourite city - Berlin. (See 'A Postcard From Poland'). I know Berlin fairly well and visit regularly but I hadn't been to the Berliner Zoologische Garten for several … Continue reading Berlin Zoo
Planting For The Future
I am aware that at least two of the very big oak trees in the garden are dying. They'll probably survive for decades yet but nevertheless they are on the way out. And two days ago, I was told by a tree surgeon that another oak's demise is imminent. (I say imminent but I read … Continue reading Planting For The Future
The Anxious Gardener 