(A swarm of wild honey bees flew overhead today as we cut the beech hedging. I followed them up the drive where they landed on an apple tree to form a large tear-drop around the queen. As swarming bees are not generally aggressive, I got very close with my standard lens: but I wouldn't advise … Continue reading Almost Wordless Wednesday: Bee Swarm
Environment
Astrophytum myriostigma
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
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
The Tropical Border And How I Learned To Hate Soaker Hose
Like last year, I gambled on a fine spring by planting up the tropical border early. In mid-April, to a comb-and-tissue-paper fanfare, I dug up the big red banana (Ensete maurelii) from its winter-greenhouse-home and wheeled it into position. And then I did the same for the 'small' one. Each year I add a deep … Continue reading The Tropical Border And How I Learned To Hate Soaker Hose
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
Viburnum plicatum ‘Mariesii’
I had long lusted after Viburnum plicatum 'Mariesii' (lusted might be too strong a word). I had seen them in parks and open gardens but as VPM is a large shrub - and I only had a little garden - I bided my time. Then, within months of starting work at The Priory, and with … Continue reading Viburnum plicatum ‘Mariesii’
The Anxious Gardener 