Nature

Wordless Wednesday: Miscanthus transmorrisonensis

/ David Marsden / 20 Comments

  ... at play.

Almost Wordless Wednesday: Bee Swarm

/ David Marsden / 27 Comments

(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

The Farne Islands

/ David Marsden / 43 Comments

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

/ David Marsden / 27 Comments

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

/ David Marsden / 68 Comments

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

The Tree Bumblebee

/ David Marsden / 21 Comments

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

/ David Marsden / 49 Comments

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