When I first saw the gardens at the Priory in the summer of 2008, all of the borders and beds were smothered in nettles, brambles, bindweed and the like. It was a daunting and dispiriting sight. And quite a challenge too as, initially, I was only taken on for two days a week. A local … Continue reading Beds, Bums* and Borders
English Country Garden
Promises
Yesterday I finally pruned back the dogwoods, down to a few inches above ground level. This ensures new brightly coloured stems next winter. And I tackled the mahonia. The only one in the garden was outgrowing its space somewhat and I was becoming fed up, whilst mowing, of having my right arm painfully scratched. Mahonia … Continue reading Promises
I Do Like An Owl
There is an owl at the Priory. It's a tawny owl and I hear it regularly. From as early as midday it hoots, often when I'm deep in thought (wondering what I am going to have for my tea) making me jump out of my skin. (Did I mention that I work alone). Perched … Continue reading I Do Like An Owl
The Second Wave
of crocuses (Snowbunting) coming in fast and low. And amazingly the bench ended up looking OK (if a bit new). It would have cost a lot of money in the shops. The oak will silver in time.
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
A Real Pretty Display
I'm so proud ...... At least good old Viburnam bobnantense has come up trumps. And the scent knocks you sideways. (In a good way).
Proud To Be A Tightwad
This year, pretty much for the first time, the Priory has produced some self-sown seedlings for me to use. There is just so much space to fill that I'm grateful for any freebies. Especially freebies in quantity. Forget-me-not for example, is a wonderful filler and, to my mind, even a centre stage performer early on … Continue reading Proud To Be A Tightwad
The Anxious Gardener 