Wordless Wednesday: A Robin’s Story

/ David Marsden / 15 Comments

The Priory Wisteria …

/ David Marsden / 41 Comments

... hasn't flowered in my five years as gardener.  Well, not properly.  It does give a stutter of blue throughout the summer but the big spring show just hasn't happened; the flower buds have always been killed by the late, sharp frosts we have down in the valley. It is an impressive plant and big; … Continue reading The Priory Wisteria …

The Fox And The Crow

/ David Marsden / 43 Comments

We feed crows.  We don't go out much, so we feed crows.  Any scraps that used to go to the chickens now go to the crows. They are generally grateful but sometimes our offerings aren't quite to their liking.  Stale bread, for example, is patiently collected, bit by bit, until a good bill full is … Continue reading The Fox And The Crow

A Postcard From Poland

/ David Marsden / 49 Comments

I got bemused looks when I told people I was going to Poland. "On business?" "No, on holiday." "Oh."  (Bemused look). See what I mean? But the unease I felt at this reaction evaporated on arrival.  I loved Poland.  OK, so the weather helped.  All warm, spring sun and clear, blue skies lighting up what … Continue reading A Postcard From Poland

A Stampede Of Cows

/ David Marsden / 41 Comments

As well as this gardener walking about in his shirt-sleeves and whistling, there are various other markers that spring has finally arrived: from the scent of wild garlic by the riverbank; to early purple orchids, Camassia quamash flowering on the meadow, the rock border overflowing with forget-me-nots and butterflies emerging - albeit a cabbage white. … Continue reading A Stampede Of Cows

Under Way

/ David Marsden / 38 Comments

I'm rather behind with blogging and as it's been a while since I posted any photos of the Priory, here's a quick, excitable splurge; a brisk whizz about the gardens, showing some photos from the past few weeks. This steep bank below the greenhouses is one of my favourite spots at the Priory. It is … Continue reading Under Way

Angle Shades And A Competition

/ David Marsden / 33 Comments

I spend a lot of time thinking about what my next post might be.  Especially when I'm mowing or weeding or doing some other mindless task - after all there's no-one to talk to; no-one real anyhow.  But sometimes the decision is made for me. Like the other day.  I was potting up some plants … Continue reading Angle Shades And A Competition