(I've written about cutting the two meadows before but as it is such a big part of my working life at this time of year you might forgive me for revisiting the subject). Cutting the Priory meadow is a job that looms large from late-summer onwards. Cut it too soon and I lose late flowers … Continue reading Grass Cutting – Again
Mowing a wild flower meadow
Cutting Back
Though it doesn't officially start until tomorrow, autumn has crept up on me these past couple of weeks. Low sun and pale mist greet me when I arrive - soon the mist down here in the valley will be heavier: cold, dense and wet. Dock seed-heads (of which there are far too many) sparkle with … Continue reading Cutting Back
Cutting the Flower Meadow
Have you noticed how ubiquitous 'Wild Flower Meadows' have become? Whether it is a small garden bed, raked over and sown with a wild flower seed mix, or an acre or more of unimproved grassland, summer meadows shimmering with native flowers and buzzing with insects are now widespread; de rigueur even. And quite right too. … Continue reading Cutting the Flower Meadow
Shaving the Meadow
Last Thursday was one of the BIG JOB days at the Priory. Like the beech and mixed-hedge cutting days (and the eat as many plums as you possibly can before feeling a little bit very sick day), mowing the meadow usually takes at least a whole day and must be planned in advance. It is … Continue reading Shaving the Meadow