My brain buzzes with thoughts of my new house: a new kitchen and bathroom to plan; a small (hurrah!) garden to design; installation of a woodburner and log store; shelves and storage solutions; furniture to buy; and tantalisingly, tucked up under the eaves like a monk's cell, a study. My first. We haven't moved yet … Continue reading Astrophytum myriostigma
Countryside
The Farne Islands
I've been a little too busy for blogging. I sold a house, I bought a house and I've endured all the fun-filled, stress-free hours that involves. I've also been on a short break to Paris; and a longer holiday to Northern England. Last year, I crossed Northumberland on foot (see 'Walking Across England') and it … Continue reading The Farne Islands
Transplanting Oak Trees: An Update
The Priory oaks are impressive. Huge, ancient, gnarled, neck-craning impressive. They were the first thing I noticed and the last I shall say good-bye to. We have about twenty mature oaks; most hale, a few less so. With an eye on the latter, and because the Priory should never be oak-less, I planted some replacements. … Continue reading Transplanting Oak Trees: An Update
A Gravel Garden For Free
Behind some outbuildings at the Old Forge is an oil tank and an expanse of gravel. For three long years, I weeded that gravel until, a couple of years ago, I (finally) realised I was being stupid. Instead of weeding, why not fill it with plants? Drought resistant, hardy plants of course but there would … Continue reading A Gravel Garden For Free
Follers Manor Opening Times 2015
Last summer I visited a stunning private garden called Follers Manor. The gardens sit on a shoulder of the South Downs, to the south of Alfriston, East Sussex and above the pretty village of Litlington. Here's an account of my visit. (I didn't use all the photos from that day. Here are a few … Continue reading Follers Manor Opening Times 2015
The Tree Bumblebee
Last week at The Old Forge I saw and photographed a new species; new to me and new to the British Isles. The tree bumblebee (Bombus hypnorum) is a recent arrival to these shores - first recorded in Wiltshire in 2001. Since then it has spread quickly throughout England, Wales and southern Scotland. As they … Continue reading The Tree Bumblebee
The Garden in Flower
My summer kicks off with the release of Margaret's cows from the sheds. I was on holiday on the big day, and for the first time in several years, I missed all the pent-up excitement, the expectation, the arging and barging, the galloping, the frenetic leaping into the air and bellows resounding across the valley. … Continue reading The Garden in Flower
The Anxious Gardener 