May 12th 2024

Welcome

Now that the weather has warmed up the soil is warmer, and it is a good time to get plants in the ground.

We are picking Asparagus and Radish and the Beans and Peas are being planted. Potatoes are being earthed up and the ground prepared for planting.

The Greenhouse is being emptied and the seedlings hardened off before planting out. This has created space for the indoor Tomatoes, Basil and Dill.

Work is in progress on the Iris bed where we are attempting to organise the iris in colour blocks.

The Dell has taken on a wild look with the Bluebells finished and Campion and Forget me Nots in flower. We have replanted the Chamomile in the circle between the Jacquemontii and fenced against Muntjac while they are getting their roots established.

Cow Parsley is encouraged in the Daffodil area whilst we allow the daffodils to die down. The Paulownia is in full flower and beyond that the vibrant yellow Laburnum.

In the Bog Garden the Variegated Iris Pseudacorus is in flower and the bright pink Candelabra Primula are enjoying the water.

In the cooler shadier area of the Autumn Border the Hydrangea Petiolaris is in flower climbing a tree and behind that a Pink Chestnut.

Pulmonaria are planted beneath the curved yew hedge and Rhododendron are in flower in the hidden garden behind the laurel.

In the Water Garden the Hellebore are finished, and magenta coloured Candelabra Primula line the path.

The magnificent Copper Beech is in full leaf by the bridge.

We have planted Dianthus Devon Wizard in front of the Rose de Rescht bed and fenced it. last year rabbits ate the plants and so until they are established, we are protecting them.

The magnificent pink rose in flower on the West lawn wall is High Hopes…. I think.

Oleander and Geraniums have come out of the Greenhouse and are now in situ at the bottom of the West lawn.

In the Wild Garden Spring flowers have finished and Cow Parsley are thriving around the Mulberry and Quince. Lovely to take the path through them.

House Martins have been checking out their old nest sites and we are hopeful of a return. Lots of swallows drinking in the Fishponds in the evening and the sheep are being terrorised by the pair of ancient geese who live there. Grey lag Geese are ganging up- we counted 15 last night and seem to be deterring the Heron from the Moat.

Stay healthy and good gardening

Lynda Tucker

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