Sunday, 1 January 2017

Gardening course for 2017

Putting things together for the new gardening course is making me feel that spring is close. I'm filled with hope and plans - and pacing up and down like a caged tiger at the window. Only January and February and part of March to go then... 

http://www.hornbrookmanor.co.uk/site/COURSE_2017.html

Tuesday, 27 December 2016

Warmed by the fire


This is Cornus sanguinea 'Midwinter Fire' - a dogwood with colourful winter bark. Grow several together for maximum impact. 

Monday, 26 December 2016

Oh Christmas tree


I love Ladybird books, the real ones and these ones (the robin story was one of my favourites). 


Saturday, 24 December 2016

Wednesday, 21 December 2016

Solstice



Too drizzly out there. At least tomorrow we'll have 2 more minutes of daylight...

Darkest days



I should be tidying the house and Christmas shopping, but am clearing some Verbena bonariensis instead, now that the birds have pecked it over. I try not to be too tidy, as wildlife needs shelter in the winter and some of the seed heads look winsome among the grasses in the low light. 



Saturday, 17 December 2016

Natural decorations

I like the thought of biodegradable, ephemeral Christmas decorations that don't have to be stored until next year. These will just melt away on the compost heap. 
Go to http://www.kent-life.co.uk/home/christmas/how_to_pretty_festive_place_settings_1_4804991 to see how to make them