(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
Photography
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
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
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 Anxious Gardener 