When I planted a Clematis 'Gravetye Beauty' at The Priory, I had no idea what or who it was named after. And then in August a blogging friend, Sara, wrote about a visit to Gravetye Manor and the penny dropped (you can read her post - here). Sara's description and photos were captivating and I wished … Continue reading Gravetye Manor
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Breathe In
About a week ago, my laptop died and I spent hours trying to resurrect it. I failed. So I spent several more hours. And failed again. Then I panicked. I feared I had lost spreadsheets and word documents and other files I wouldn't even miss until I needed them. And hundreds of photos. In a … Continue reading Breathe In
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
Walking Across England
I've recently returned from a fifteen-day walk across Northern England. I started at Ulverston, Cumbria and finished at Berwick-Upon-Tweed, Northumberland. My route comprised the Cumbria Way, the central (and best) bit of the Hadrian's Wall Path and the St Oswald's Way. Here's a photo-blog of what I saw. oooOOOooo As you may know, one of … Continue reading Walking Across England
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
A Mild Sense Of Panic
After almost three weeks away from the Priory, the difference on my return is marked and, for late March, the garden far more advanced than usual. (I shall do a post soon about my walk across England. I have rather a lot of photos to sort through). I feel a little overwhelmed with how much … Continue reading A Mild Sense Of Panic
A February Springtime
There has been little sign of life at the Priory recently; other than me that is (a surly and dishevelled figure, crouched beneath a dripping conifer and shaking a fist at the rain-laden clouds). And then the most extraordinary thing happened. The 'February Gold' daffs I planted in 2008 flowered. IN FEBRUARY! In the past … Continue reading A February Springtime
The Anxious Gardener 