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Wednesday 31 July 2013
More days of April showers in July. The Gooseberries are ripe and starting to fall, so I need to pick the crop now. Redcurrants ripe and an excellent heavy crop, they will remain on the branches and pickable for weeks. Buddleia in bloom – that sweet sickly heavy scent. Teasels turning a nice shade of pale purple. Plenty of new shoots from the Compassion Rose, but the first Rose flushes are over, including New Dawn. Parsley thriving, and the potted Basil. No Borage brown spot this year, but seems to have transferred to the Honeysuckle on the arch – but fortunately it is still throwing new shoots beyond this infestation, if that’s what is causing the problem. The transplanted Rosemary growing well in the front south border, and the two remaining potted plants have also revived. Need transplanting. The front garden looks good, with a brilliant display from the French Marigolds, geraniums and especially Marshmallow. That’s my last entry in this garden blog.
Monday 29 July 2013
A day of April showers – much of this year has been April showers, and a fresher feel by evening. The Hostas are flowering, various shades of pale lilac to white. Almost total absence of bird life in the garden – probably the moulting season. A nice self-set Golden Rod clump in the front drive, and a red flowered plant I can’t identify. This will be my penultimate gardenblog entry for a while.
Friday 26 July 2013
Thunderstorms forecast over the weekend, otherwise this long hot spell continues. The garden has been refreshed partially by heavy overnight rain, but looks dry and overgrown in places. The lawns have not required cutting for weeks. Wonderful Redcurrant and Gooseberry crops now ripe, and Pears look good. Problems noticed with the pyramid Honeysuckle – lots of dead leaves, but there is some fresh growth and a few flowers so it may not be fatal. Cause unknown. All the Hostas have grown vigorously and look healthy with no slug damage.
Wednesday 24 July 2013
The fine summery weather continues, after one overnight thunderstorm. More pruning of the Berberis Juliana today, probably the final cut back. It leaves the Euonymus plenty of light and space to grow. A lovely flowering display from the Marshmallow. The self-set Hollyhock is in bloom, a pale yellow. I hope this becomes an established perennial. Overall, the garden has a high summer look. No Bats, no Hedgehogs and now no Swifts overhead this year. Probably due to the dearth of flying insects after the cold spring.
Monday 22 July 2013
Today may be the last of the heat wave, thunderstorms forecast for tonight. It’s been a good long run of fine dry summer weather. The Lavenders are in full bloom; Hidcote is noticeably a darker shade of purple than the old bush. Several Hostas are in or near flowering. The Teasels in the patio bag are turning – mauve beginning to show. Far fewer garden Bees and Butterflies this year, so far. Lovely front garden display by French marigolds, Geraniums, Snapdragons and Trailing Lobelias. No Bats or Hedgehogs this year.
Friday 19 July 2013
The heat wave continues, with temperatures around 30 deg C plus, dry, sunny and blue skies. The lawns are surviving quite well, but will soon need water. I’ve kept the priority watering going. My Basil potted plant is thriving in these Mediterranean conditions, as is the Rosemary plantlet raised from a cutting last year. I’ve spotted lots of fledglings in the garden. Tiny new Wrens are numerous, as are baby Robins still without the red breast. It’s time for parasol on the picnic bench, and table chimaeras and coloured solar lights in these balmy evenings – sitting out till 11 pm. I’ve emptied the two slatted compost bins ready for reassembly, and started to dig in the compost, including in the woodland area where the soil seems infertile. Gooseberries and Redcurrants have ripened fast and are now eatable. Borage is a big success this year. Still waiting for the self-set Hollyhock to flower – what colour? I hope this becomes a perennial and spreads even. Bit more Berberis Juliana pruning in the front garden, where the Ferns are really doing very well, and the French Marigolds and Snapdragons are a lovely splash of colours.
Wednesday 10 July 2013
Cloudy and cooler today with a breeze, after another scorcher yesterday, Everywhere is bone dry, I’ve been keeping the essential plants watered. Lawns need mowing. I think we may have a self-set Hollyhock along the south path along the top garden. See what the flowers look like. Glad that the Borage has avoided the horrible rust that has plagued these lovely self-set plants for several years. But one of the Gooseberries has the leaf-stripping caterpillar again, but not quite as extensive as previous years. The Gooseberry crop looks excellent again, and the Redcurrants are turning red.
Monday 8 July 2013
Still very hot dry and sunny. Summertime. The arch Roses are in splendid bloom, both Compassion and Ena Harkness, but are growing out of control. I’ll try to tie them back without snapping the branches. Yesterday I filled in a four centimetre diameter hole in the lawn that has appeared at the side of the garage, and apparently extending under the garage concrete base. Looked like the work of Mice or possibly a Squirrel. This morning the earth in the hole had clearly been disturbed, and Wasps were entering and leaving. I’ll leave it awhile and observe. Last night I sat in the late dusk on the top bench, hoping to see Bats. No Bats, but noises from the other side of the top fence that may have been the Foxes.
Friday 5 July 2013
The weather has turned hot, first time this summer. I have moved the Basil from the kitchen window outside to the patio, and replanted in a larger pot. More New Dawn roses in flower. The front garden looks colourful and I’ve kept the weeds down. Pleased to see that the Fern from the woodland edge is showing promising signs of life, with several new fronds unfurling, after being soaked in water for about a week. It’s near demise was probably caused either by the cold winter, or the very dry soil in the woodland edge.
Monday 1 July 2013
Warm and dry, but plenty of cloud. The New Dawn roses have started to flower, but the main first flush are still in bud. The top garden arch Roses are in flower – Ena Harkness and Compassion. Need tying back. Lovely colourful old-fashioned display with the Antirrhinums in the front south border – red, orange, bright yellow, pink. A striking architectural cluster of Teasels in a planting bag on the patio. The Peonies have faded fast, an unfortunate trait of these flowers.
Friday 28 June 2013
Rain overnight, and drizzle today. Excellent timing – I mowed the lawns yesterday. I raised the cut height a notch to 27 mm in view of the dry conditions lately. I tend to cut too low, which soon seems to drain the growth energy from the grass. Added more kitchen waste to the wormery this morning, and gently forked over the two active trays. They look healthy, and are now producing more liquid feed after the major removal of compost a few weeks ago. We have lots of tiny Frogs around the garden, and I found a medium sized Frog under the water butt today.
Wednesday 26 June 2013
Warmer, but still breezy. I started yesterday to cut back the new growth on the Russian Vine along the top fence. The rate of growth is phenomenal and had started to tangle with the rose arch again. More front garden border weeding today to try to keep on top of this. The self-set Poppies are in bloom around the garden, they are a delight, if short-lived.
Friday 21 June 2013
Cooler with light drizzle this afternoon. I re-laid two of the front drive path paving slabs. Yesterday I weeded the front borders – there are still lots of bits of Bindweed roots and Soapwort that are throwing up shoots. Two of the Ferns in the woodland edge area seem to have died. The ground has become very dry. I’ve dug two Fern crowns up and soaked them in a water tub in a last effort to revive them. The Borage is growing well, with no sign yet of the rust disease that has plagued the Borage for a couple of years.
Wednesday 19 June 2013
Hot but close, with some hazy sun. The Gooseberry crop looks very good for another year. All the Hostas are growing strongly. Weeds especially Bindweed are also thriving and need attention. I plan to use some of the wormery compost to top-dress the front borders. New Dawn roses are coming into bloom.
Monday 17 June 2013
Getting warmer. The little Basil plant is now in the kitchen, and showing signs of growth. I feared it was lost. The Comfrey in the front drive border is in flower, about five feet high and flopping over. I will cut it back and encourage a new growth. More bird food out. The young Starlings are feeding in large numbers every day. Yesterday they were dive-bombed by a Magpie.
Friday 14 June 2013
Better weather than forecast, but windy and not very warm. I have kept daily watering the new plants in the front garden through this long dry spell. This garden is looking green, attractive and organised. The Peonies are now in bloom. A lovely display, as good as ever. Need to replant the four hanging baskets.
Wednesday 12 June 2013
Rain arrived late afternoon, after a cloudy but milder morning. The rain is welcome. I’ve given attention today to a broken paving slab on the drive and several dislodged slabs. Yesterday I tackled the wormery – it has been neglected for around six months apart from adding waste and draining liquid feed. The job was much simpler than expected. The bottom tray was practically worm-free, so this lovely rich compost could be removed. The middle tray was almost in the same state, just a few more worms that I carefully removed. The top tray contained almost the entire worm population. Some worms have been lost I think, but still a good total remain healthy and active despite the neglect. Having removed all the compost I washed the unit down then reintroduced the worms into the bottom and middle trays, with some recent kitchen waste. I put a fresh cover (I use hanging basket liners) over the middle tray, and left the top tray empty. Checking this morning, the worms are active and all seems well. I now have a substantial load of valuable compost.
Monday 10 June 2013
Cloudy and cold, with rain forecast tomorrow, so today I mowed the lawns. I raised the cut height – the previous two mowings have been a bit shaved. The front garden has benefited from all the work of recent weeks and now looks attractive and cared-for. Peonies still not I bloom.
Friday 7 June 2013
A bit more work on the front south border yesterday. Bought and planted two more delightful plants – another Bidens with yellow star flowers, and a small Brachycome with small Michaelmas Daisy type flowers. One of the three compost bins has partially collapsed after I removed a load of compost from the bottom. So I’ve dismantled the entire bin, leaving most of the remaining compost in an open pile, and transferring some to the other bins. Surprised at the insect, snail and worm life teeming in the disturbed compost. The Parsley has taken well, but the tiny Basil looks fragile. Lots of self-set Borage as ever each year. I may transplant a few to a different spot in the garden, to try to avoid the usual problem of leaves turning brown and the whole plant getting infected that has plagued my Borage for a couple of years.
Wednesday 5 June 2013
Despite a cool breeze this sunny spell continues and gets warmer. I bought more plants today and have planted them in the front south border. More Snapdragons and French Marigolds. A Lavender (Hidcote), Salvia (Blue Friesland) and Scabious (Cornflower Blue). Also a small Basil plant for the herb garden. The Starlings with their new broods are feeding continuously and ravenously, plus a few Blue Tits. Peonies still not in flower.
Monday 3 June 2013
A lovely early June morning in the garden. The Aquilegias are all in flower. There are four basic colours here: deep purple, white, light pink and darker pink. I propped a low Lilac branch back to allow more light to the Hostas. All eight Hostas are growing vigorously. The snail and slug attacks have started, so I’ve had no alternative to take measures. The Bluebells are out. Gooseberries are looking like another heavy crop. These fruit grow at an amazing rate. The new generation of Starlings are squawking and jostling for food.
Friday 31 May 2013
This morning – warmer and sunnier at last – saw a visit from our Starlings accompanied by their latest offspring, a garrulous group all eagerly waiting to be fed. So the ravenous appetites of the Starlings over recent weeks was indeed due to feeding these chicks. I’m keeping up the supply of food at least until the weather improves and their natural food becomes more abundant. The Peonies are still not in bloom. Generally, the garden looks green and thriving.
Wednesday 29 May 2013
After a pleasant sunny weekend and bank holiday, back today to cloud and continuous rain. I suppose it should help the new plants to settle in, and everywhere looks green. I‘ve discovered a Hosta I thought had perished – it’s Big Daddy I think. All the Hostas are doing very well, with no evidence of slug or snail damage, and no need so far for slug pellets. The Aquilegias are all in flower. I did more pruning back of the Berberis Juliana at the weekend, to allow more light and space for the variegated Euonymus, which is growing strongly.
Friday 24 May 2013
Rain all morning, and miserable and cold. This is late May. Gardening is on hold. I’m keeping the bird feeders well stocked, they all seem to be ravenous.
Wednesday 22 May 2013
Cold and cloudy again, but dry with a bit of evening sun. I bought more plants today: more French Marigolds, and another Geranium; a variegated Euonymus; Hosta ‘Twilight’; Sage; Thyme. Managed to get them all planted today. Apple blossom is out, Pear blossom already over.
Monday 20 May 2013
Another cool cloudy may day. Yesterday I mowed the lawns, second cut this year. Possibly a shade too close, but the grass is not growing much in these temperatures. Divided Parsley into three smaller clumps, and planted them in different areas. The Peonies are not yet in bloom, but look healthy with many unopened flower heads.
Friday 17 May 2013
Back to cloudy and cold, after a surprise warm sunny dry day yesterday. I was able to plant the front south border, including transplanting Rosemary, Hydrangea and Ribes from pots and the rear south border. The orange and red of the Geranium and French Marigolds has introduced a bit of cheerfulness to this dismal month. The Starlings, Blackbirds, Blue Tits and Robins are feeding voraciously, probably feeding their young. Our Robin gathers live mealworms and shoots off with them. The grey underneath feathers are dishevelled, probably from many return visits to the nest. The six Hostas in the woodland edge are growing rapidly. So far they look very healthy and without attacks from slugs and snails, but preventative measures will have to be taken soon.
Wednesday 15 May 2013
Really cold, rain, but a brief appearance of the sun late afternoon. This is winter in May. I gave liquid feed to all lawns. Emptied a bucket full of rain water and three frogs jumped out. Visited two garden centres and bought a tray of French marigolds, Parsley and a Red Geranium, plus a terracotta plant pot. If the weather is suitable tomorrow I will get plants in the front south border. I’m keeping up the supply of bird food. Voracious crowds of Starlings, flying off with suet pellets. Probably to feed their young – I hope.
Monday 13 May 2013
This cold cloudy rainy weather is continuing as we go through May. I planted a few more Semper Vivens and Euonymus in the front stone wall yesterday. The three ferns on the front are all growing strongly, unlike those in the woodland edge. The Rhubarb seems to be recovering from the harvesting of the forced stems, getting back the red and green colours. Bluebells are coming into flower, the Tulips are not yet over, and a lovely scent around the top garden seat from the perennial Wallflowers.
Friday 10 May 2013
The warm spell is over and today is cloudy with showers, after strong winds yesterday. Peonies are doing well, and will soon be in bloom. The late planted Muscari bulbs continue to grow. I was pleased to see this morning that a couple of Ferns in the woodland edge are starting to grow and unfurl new fronds. A wonderful array of Aquilegias everywhere, not yet flowering. The Hostas are now about four inches high. They will need some protection against snails and slugs soon.
Monday 6 May 2013 Bank Holiday
Another lovely spring day, probably the warmest day this year to date. Spent most of the day in the garden. We harvested the forced Rhubarb – it was an excellent crop, and made 5 lb ready for freezing. We stewed one batch – excellent flavour. Everything has now taken off with vigorous growth everywhere. Tulips out at the top garden. I tidied and watered the Mint bed. The late planted Muscari bulbs are nearly all through. Interesting to see what happens about flowering. More tidying on the front and planted another Euonymus in the stone wall. Days like this I feel really grateful for this garden to potter about in.
Friday 3 May 2013
A glorious May day – warm, dry, sunny. I spent more time tidying the front garden, working today mainly on the drive border. I cut back the Cotton Lavender, Southernwood and the Marshmallow. The Cowslips are still in flower, the Hyacinths are just going over, I also tidied the wall and added Semper Vivens and the other plant which I think is called Euonymus. Overall, the front garden is now looked cared for. I watered the Peonies in the rear garden. I plan to stake the flower heads this year, since these large heavy flowers tend to weight the plants down and lose petals early.
Wednesday 1 May 2013 May Day
A pleasant sunny and dry day, but with the persistent light cool northerly breeze. Everything in the garden is growing strongly now, despite the cool temperatures. Lovage about two feet high, Angelica up to three feet now. I spent more time this afternoon tidying the front south border, mainly lifting the scattered Snowdrops for replanting. I also removed more deadwood from the Berberis Juliana. The bird feeder in the Berberis has become a regular feeder spot for Blue Tits and other birds; surprising, given the closeness of the road.
Monday 29 April 2013
A cloudy and quite cold morning, with an occasional appearance of the sun. The Muscari bulbs I recently planted, about six months late, are starting to push above ground. It will be interesting to see what happens. The garden has gone into a sort of slow motion period due to the cold weather lately. Plants are growing, but it’s slow.
Friday 26 April 2013
Sunshine and showers today, with a much cooler north wind. Yesterday I started the task of digging over the front border, to rescue the Snowdrops that have now finished flowering. They were bulbs left behind last autumn when I cleared the border. I have transplanted some to the rear lawn to add to the several clumps of naturalised Snowdrops in the lawn. I shall put a further group under the Big Fir, and regroup some into two clusters in the border. I also recovered a few small Soapwort shoots, and transplanted them in a corner site in the top garden, where this rampant herb will be restricted. The Peonies are growing well, and the Angelica is now about two feet plus high, with flower heads starting to form. Tulips are almost in flower, and the forced Rhubarb has nearly reached the top of the polythene black bin, and will need harvesting soon.
Wednesday 24 April 2013
Still dry but cloudier and a touch cooler than lately. I mowed the lawns today for the first time this year, which may be timely since rain is forecast. Tidied up the south border path by the Big Fir. This is a pleasant long narrow path to the top of the garden. I’m still putting bird food out daily. No sign of our Swifts overhead yet The Angelica is growing vigorously, and the Chives look happier after the long wet winter compared to last year, when they struggled to flower.
Monday 22 April 2013
Breezy and sunny intervals today, but the weekend was lovely. I tidied up the south border, pruning the Lavenders, Rue and Hyssop. Pleased to see the little Hydrangea has survived. I tidied up the patio. I think only one Rosemary cutting is still alive, possible two. The perennial Sweet William is in flower. Clematis Cardinal Rouge is another survivor, but the new Honeysuckle has gone. I also found two Strawberry survivors – tiny plants but growing. This is a sort of fitful, slow spring. Really a great pleasure to be able to potter in the garden again.
Friday 19 April 2013
Turned cold and cloudy all day, until evening. I saw a Pheasant in the garden yesterday, feeding on the bird food on the ground in the woodland edge. Last time we hosted this colourful bird was about a year ago. The Hyacinths are in flower, with their heavy scent in the front garden. The rescued Muscari are in bud – no sign above ground of the late planted Muscari bulbs. The Hidscote Lavender bush needs trimming back to encourage strong growth this summer. I saw a lovely carpet of Primroses in the local church yard this afternoon. I will buy a few plants for next year.
Wednesday 17 April 2013
Still mild and breezy, this morning has been mainly cloudy and dull. The spring growth surge is under way, but at a fairly measured pace. Tulips and Hyacinths in bud, the first Bluebell in flower. Angelica has quickly recovered from the frost setback and is growing strongly. I’m continuing to feed the garden birds daily, but no nests yet discovered in the garden. More Cowslips in flower, and Lily of the Valley shoots are several centimetres.
Monday 15 April 2013
Typical April weather, with just occasional showers, and much warmer. The weekend was very windy, today a stiff breeze and plenty of sunny periods. This morning I dug over the Peony border – the shoots are now about three inches high. One Daffodil in flower, and Scillas in the front garden drive border. The warmer weather has resulted in a growth spurt all over the garden.
Friday 12 April 2013
Seasonal weather at last, with welcome April showers. The naturalised Snowdrops in the lawn are still in flower. Time to think about the first lawn mow of the year, but I always leave the grass around the Snowdrops uncut until they have died right down.
Wednesday 10 April 2013
A fine April day, warmer, sunny, and with that distinctive ozone-fresh air in the morning. I divided another Cowslip clump in the top garden, and found two others I had missed. Now have a total of 26 plants. I then tackled a problem that I’ve put off over the winter – pruning back the Russian Vine and the Grape Vine; both had become entangled with the rose arch. I also planted Muscari bulbs – they should have gone in last autumn, but I have found that very late plantings are successful. I have Daffodils with the same problem. Much attention to my gardening again from our Blackbird and Robin pairs. I tidied and forked the Peony border. The bronze Lovage shoots are now pushing up. They seem more extensive than last year. Our local neighbourhood cats have been showing further interest in the birds feeding in the woodland edge. Yesterday I found a few white downy feathers on the ground – no proof it is the work of the cats. We have on solitary yellow crocus in flower, and the first Daffodil getting close to flowering.
Monday 8 April 2013
The first proper gardening of 2013 at the weekend. I prepared the ground at the top garden, then lifted, divided and replanted the Cowslips. Total of 17 plants now. To my surprise, this morning I found 6 more Cowslips doing well in the front garden border, with another little plant actually nearby in the lawn grass – evidently self-set. I ought to grow a few Cowslips in the lawns, that after all is their natural habitat. Our pair of Blackbirds and the pair of Robins continue very active in the woodland edge. I hope they are nesting, and raise broods successfully. On the patio in a plant pot four tiny cuttings are growing well; I remember planting them but can’t recall what they are – Busy Lizzie, or Hydrangea? I seem to have one Rosemary potted plant which has survived the long hard winter.
Friday 5 April 2013
This cold dry weather with the biting east winds continues into April, though today is fairly bright with patches of blue sky. The snow has all gone. No Daffodils, Hyacinths or Tulips in flower. I noticed this morning that the ground in the woodland edge area is quite parched. I fear several Ferns may have been lost. I haven’t discovered any bird’s nests around the garden yet this spring, though our tame Blackbirds and Robins are always around. I’m continuing to keep all the bird feeders well stocked every day, plus a good sprinkling on the ground in the woodland edge. The Peonies are pushing through, with their bronze shoots about two inches high.
Monday 1 April 2013 Easter Monday
A cold and dismal walk round the garden this April morning. The weather hasn’t changed much over the past week. Only a few small pockets of snow in secluded places, and the water but still frozen. I noticed how the Ivy that now extends quite thickly up the Big Fir to around twenty feet has also spread laterally over the wild area below the tree. It must be a useful habitat for our birds. Likewise the thick tangle of Russian Vine along the top fence, although no sign of nests and no activity seen in the three nesting boxes here.
Friday 29 March 2013 Good Friday
Still cold and cloudy at the start of the Easter holiday although most of the snow has gone. A brisk walk round the garden this morning, after I had refilled the terracotta feeder and the bird table. I noticed that the Angelica had flopped over limp in the cold, otherwise looking fresh and green in this second year. No Robins seen today, plenty of Blue Tits and Goldfinches. It will be a pleasure to get back to a bit of gardening proper when there is a warmer sunny spell.
Wednesday 27 March 2013
This freezing end of March continues. Still plenty of snow lying, but it is shrinking presumably due to a process of evaporation. I put more bird feed out. I’ve tried to keep a regular supply during these harsh conditions. A small group of Goldfinches around today, and on the opposite pavement I spotted a Crow looking for food scraps. I think it was a Crow, fairly long yellow bill, but it looked on the small side. Any gardening is still impossible until the temperature climbs.
Monday 25 March 2013
A bitterly cold icy day, with the weekend’s snowfall lying over the garden and on the bushes and trees. Water in the butt is frozen, and the garden and wildlife seem almost on lock-down. I refilled the feeders this morning. Half a dozen Starlings have descended on the bird table, a solitary Wood Pigeon is feeding in the woodland edge area. I noticed fresh tracks in the snow, which I’m sure are Fox. This freezing weather is forecast to continue.
Friday 22 March 2013
Colder, with more cloudy gloom and snow forecast. The Snowdrops are still giving lovely displays around the garden; in the lawn, the front border and clumps dotted around the garden. The long flowering season may be due to the cold weather this month. My biggest surprise has been in the front border, where I thought I had lifted all the Snowdrop bulbs last autumn. I dug the border over, and left it unplanted. Unwittingly, I had spread many Snowdrop bulbs that I had missed all over the border, so we now have a special display with Snowdrop dotted all along the border. A Squirrel made a brief appearance in the garden yesterday, feeding on the bird food. I was glad to see we have not lost all our Squirrels, as I had feared. The Robins and Blackbirds are so tame, approaching when I whistle to within a foot or so to take the suet pellets.
Wednesday 20 March 2013 First Day of Spring
Gloomy cloudy cold day. When I went out this morning to refill the bird feeders I noticed a scattering of small white feathers on the path near the Big Fir. I wonder if one of the predator cats has grabbed a bird? No sign yet of a warmer spell, but the Gooseberry bush is beginning to come into leaf. I’m pleased to see that the Perennial Wallflowers are surviving. I must take cuttings this year – they have quite a strong scent. Not as much as the annuals, but still lovely on a calm summer evening. The potted Rosemary also seems to have survived. It needs planting out. I miss the Rosemary bushes that used to be a feature of the gardens. Looks like we’ve lost the Lady’s Smock. I’m leaving that ground undisturbed in the hope of seedlings appearing.
Monday 18 March 2013
Hard frost overnight, the lawns white over this morning, and there was a lingering mist. I went out early to fill the feeder. A Robin came immediately to my whistle, and within a short distance from my hand offering suet pellets. He spotted some on the ground and went for those instead. Our tame Blackbird also appeared. The Daffodils and Hyacinths are growing well, and the Snowdrops still in flower. Our neighbourhood cats often sit waiting for the birds. I go out and shoo them off when I can.
Friday 15 March 2013
Cloudy but mild after overnight rain, with more rain promised. Yesterday I was walking in the woodland edge area under the trees when I spotted a bird’s egg lying on the ground. The ground here is a soft cover layer of rotting pine needles and other organic debris. I picked the egg up. It was a Blackbird’s. And perfectly intact. How it got there I don’t know. I have seen Blackbirds last week busy nest-building in the nearby Box tree, and there are a couple of very tame Blackbirds around here who usually appear on the scene the moment I start scattering suet pellets on the ground. Anyway, this morning I went to check if the egg was still there. No, it had vanished. How? I haven’t seen Squirrels here for a long time. May have been a Magpie, who are occasionally seen around this site; or a Field Mouse, or a Hedgehog – but Hedgehogs have not been here for a long time. It’s a mystery. Two Robins appeared when I was refilling the terracotta feeder this morning. The Snowdrops are still in full bloom – one or two are starting to go over.
Wednesday 13 March 2013
Sun and cloud, less cold, but still breezy. The garden seems busy with bird activity this morning. I spotted a bird in the Big Fir which I couldn’t identify; pink breast, black head, and with a greenish sheen on the lower back. Looks like a Bullfinch – I don’t think it was a Chaffinch. Blue Tits, Cola Tits, Great Tits have all be feeding. On the front, the Berberis Juliana has taken quite a battering in the strong winds. Blown sideways, and the nesting box and feeder dislodged. I may need to prune to restore a more balanced shape. Overall, the garden looks rather downtrodden and sad after this recent hard weather.
Monday 11 March 2013
Bitterly cold today, with a biting east wind. Freezing – water in the butts is frozen. I noticed the fresh growth on several Aquilegias has wilted in the frost. Odd patches of blue sky. I put lots more bird feed out this morning, on the bird table, the terracotta feeder and scattered on the ground in the woodland area. Plenty of bird activity in the garden today. Great Tits and Coal Tits are back. One change this winter is much less evidence of our Squirrels. Previous years they have been regularly first at fresh bird feed put out. Nowadays, never in sight, and certainly not seen climbing up to the bird table which used to be their favourite trick. I wonder why?
Friday 8 March 2013
Mild still, but constant drizzle. A dull cloudy day with light fog early.
I made up a solution of the wormery liquid and gave the forcing Rhubarb a good soaking. This should encourage growth. A problem is the uncertainty about the chemical composition of the wormery liquid. May be too nitrogenous and encourage leafy growth. But at this early stage of the Rhubarb, I don’t think this is a problem. The garden birds have been silenced by this depressing weather. However, I heard a Blackbird at 0500 am the other morning in full voice; and yesterday a bird high up in the woodland area which I could not identify. It was a finch with a black bill, pale underneath, brownish striation above, and a greyish crown. No idea.
Wednesday 6 March 2013
Cloudy dull but mild. I lifted the black polythene bin from the Rhubarb to check progress with forcing this morning. Good growth, stems about two or three inches, pink and yellow. More bird feed out. No sign at all of Lady’s Smock. I will leave the soil undisturbed and hope there may be seedlings coming through, or perhaps a dormant root.
Monday 4 March 2013
A lovely early spring morning in the garden. That hazy sun and a fresh smell, garden busy with creatures. I stopped in the woodland edge and watched our Blackbird gathering bits of straw, flying to the Box tree, up into the top branches, then repeating the process. Robins are also very active. The snowdrops are all in full bloom. The naturalised lawn ones have come through better than I first thought – I think those planted most recently have not established fully yet, and have been slow to flower.
Friday 1 March 2013
March has arrived, a cloudy, dull, dry day and cold but nowhere near freezing. A walk around the garden. New growth is everywhere; the Angelica looks green and fresh, the Ice Plants are slowly developing, Peony shoots are up, Cowslips growing. I stopped under the Big Fir to examine the growth of the Ivy up the trunk. It’s getting thick in places and has reached around fifteen to twenty feet. I was joined by two Robins, who came within a couple of feet, seeming to respond to my low whistles. Chaffinches, Great Tits and Goldfinches spotted in the garden today, and the Starlings have survived the hard winter days.
Monday 18 February 2013
A pleasant walk in the garden this morning. Bracing, bright with a hazy blue sky and that familiar springtime feel. I noticed that a Hosta is pushing through. Nearly stepped on it. Lots of bird feeding activity over the weekend: Magpies, Goldfinches, Coal Tits, Blue Tits, Dunnocks, Blackbirds, Collared Doves and Wood Pigeons, Chaffinches and Robin. Not much seen of the Squirrels. I think their numbers are down on previous years.
Friday 15 February 2013
A lovely sunny blue morning, a return to the spring-like weather at the start of the month. The lawn Snowdrops are a bit disappointing this year, but a nice display under the Big Fir, and excellent four clumps at the top garden. I replenished the bird food. Spotted several Coal Tits over the past couple of days, a welcome return.
Wednesday 13 February 2013
Snow still around, very cold this morning and more snow this afternoon. More bird food out. I emptied the kitchen compost bins. Pleased to see active worms in the top tray of the wormery, despite the wintry weather lately.
Monday 11 February 2013
Return of snow overnight. The garden is white over, several inches deep. The pattern of snow on the branches and leaves of the Fir and Box trees is spectacular. I put more bird food out this morning.
Friday 8 February 2013
Hard frost overnight, so a bright sunny morning with the lawns white. I refilled the bird feed places. The terracotta ‘apple’ hanging from a lower branch of the Big Fir is an all-round favourite, especially with Blue Tits, Chaffinches, Starlings and the Squirrels. We had a couple of Magpies yesterday, at the bird table. I did a bit more light tidying in the garden this morning, mainly removing self-set brambles. I pruned the large Gooseberry bush to give easier access to the stepping stones. Two fence sections at the top garden on the northern side have been badly damaged by wind (and possibly by Foxes). They will need replacing. Good to see Snowdrops reappearing in places forgotten, in the lawn and under the Big Fir.
Wednesday 6 February 2013
Windy, cold and dull. I continued work on the south border, removing dead stems and lightly forking the earth between plants. Decided to start forcing the Rhubarb clump. I’ve placed the black dustbin over the emerging stems, weighted with a couple of concrete blocks to stabilise it in the high winds we are experiencing. It usually is a very productive exercise, with succulent pale pink stems in a couple of months. The Chaffinches have a much greater presence in the garden than in previous years. I put out more bird feed this morning.
Monday 4 February 2013
Cold bright sunny morning, becoming cloudier by midday. I started some gentle tidying-up. Cut back overgrown blackberry brambles, and removed the old dead stems from an Ice Plant in the south border. Chaffinches busy in the garden.
Friday 1 February 2013
A colder morning after rain overnight, but turning brighter. Brisk walk round the garden. I spotted a few more naturalised Snowdrops, in the undergrowth beneath the Big Fir. I can’t see any sign that the Lady’s Smock has survived the winter. Just hoping it will reappear.
Wednesday 30 January 2013
The Snowdrops naturalised in the lawn have begun to flower. The four clusters of these lovely flowers in the top garden are also in bloom. This morning I spotted the first shoots of Lily of the Valley peeping through. Blue skies this morning, windy, but as the days now slowly begin to lengthen spring seems in the air.
Monday 28 January 2013
The snow and ice have gone, after a rainy weekend. Much milder, though still relatively cold. Put more bird food out this morning. I did my RSPB ‘Bird Watch’ yesterday. The hour that I chose was practically devoid of birds, totally unrepresentative of the typical scene in the garden. However, two Long Tailed Tits came to the hanging suet feeders near the bird table. Not seen them for a long time, so this made up for the absence of our usual visitors. On my stroll round the garden this morning I heard the unmistakable call of a Great Tit, high in the Big Fir. The days are now just perceptibly lengthening, it is still quite light at 5 pm. And the first Snowdrops are in bloom – I hadn’t noticed them. Spring seems getting closer.
Friday 25 January 2013 Burns’ Night
Snow continues to lie, and more forecast for later today, followed by a weekend thaw. So still a snowy garden scene today. No further sightings of Fox, but plenty of new tracks in the snow betray presence. I didn’t get round to covering the garden bench and seat, so they have taken the full brunt of the harsh weather. I have kept up a good regular supply of bird food, on the ground and in all the feeders. Plenty of takers. Starlings abound, Robin, Blackbirds, Blue Tits, Wood Pigeons, Collared Doves, Crows cawing nearby, Magpies. It’s the RSPB garden bird watch weekend tomorrow.
Wednesday 23 January 2013
Still wintry garden with snow lying and freezing continues. Yesterday morning I spotted a Fox in the top garden. Many Fox footprints in the snow. I’ve kept up a good supply of bird feed. This morning I had the bright idea of putting a single suet ball in the terracotta feeder, since I had run out of the suet pellets. Not sure the birds will take to it here – may be a bit precarious for them to perch. I’ll see. I took a couple of garden in snow photos a couple of days ago. Forecasts are now suggesting a thaw may start at the weekend.
Monday 21 January 2013
The snow arrived last Friday and has been around ever since, with frequent additions, including another fall last night. The garden looks delightful in its wintry garb. Temperatures consistently below freezing. I’ve tried to keep a regular frequent supply of food for the bird visitors. Yesterday we had about eight Wood Pigeons feeding in the woodland edge area. The Chaffinches visit every day, with the Robins, Blackbirds and Starlings. Today, among the Wood Pigeons, an unusual bird. Slightly larger than the Woodies, almost black feathers with white patches on the side of its neck and the orange bill and beady pigeon eyes. I wonder if it’s a feral or racing pigeon, but I can’t spot a ring. A Squirrel is feeding under then terracotta feeder as I write. No sign of a thaw.
Wednesday 16 January 2013
A really hard frost overnight. A chilly walk round the garden. The bare earth is frozen solid. I put more bird food out. Had eight Wood Pigeons feedings. The Starlings are back, and I spotted a Blue Tit feeding from the terracotta feeder in the Big Fir. Forecast is for the frost to continue for a few more days.
Monday 14 January 2013
Light snowfall overnight, then further heavy snow by early afternoon. A brief cold walk around the garden. I put out more bird feed. A couple of Blackbirds in the woodland area – they are used to my presence, then a pair of Magpies at the bird table. Their plumage set off magnificently in the snow.
Friday 11 January 2013
A crisp blue lovely early morning, but turning cloudy by midday. I emptied the kitchen compost bins – the large bin to the garden compost bins at the top garden, the small one goes to the wormery. The wormery is full to overflowing, needs emptying. At least there is still evident worm activity. Not much bird life today. A solitary Blackbird appeared to inspect the ground feed I was scattering. I heard a Crow cawing earlier. Noticed the rose arch is a tangle of the two roses, the Grape Vines and the Russian Vine. Needs attention before new growth starts.
Wednesday 9 January 2013
A blue cold morning after overnight rain. A touch of impending early spring, but lacking that zippy freshness of the really lovely blue spring days. Still, I spotted the fist spring bulbs poking through, one looks like a Crocus. No sign of the Snowdrops. And a quiet morning with the birds. By the top garden rose arch, where a single Teasel flowered last year, lots of tiny Teasel self-sets growing between the paving cracks. Amazing how this plant colonises the most unlikely places. I shall have to remove most of them, but I like to have a few Teasels every year.
Monday 7 January 2013
Another cloudy dull but mild morning. The increase in bird activity, possibly due to this mild January weather, continues. The Starlings are a pleasure to watch, as they squabble noisily over the suet feed hanging boxes. They readily fight and peck each other. Then at the least noises-off fly away en masse, all in the same direction. I wonder why they don’t scatter in different directions – you might imagine that would be a safer option. Probably they just head away from the noise direction. Chaffinches and a single Goldfinch seen this morning. Also Blue Tits in the front garden, feeding off the new feeder in the Berberis Juliana. I heard a Great Tit for the first time this winter, with a distorted version of its usual song.
Friday 4 January 2013
After a dreary start this morning turned to blue skies, and a hazy sun with a hint of spring in the air. I put out more bird feed. Blackbird soon appeared. I cleared the ground round the Rhubarb, prior to the addition of compost before I cover the large crown with the usual upturned black bin. The Cowslips are in growth, another harbinger of early spring.
Wednesday 2 January 2013
A dreary dark but dry morning, after a bright sunny cold start to the new year yesterday. A brief walk round the garden. Good to see the very first signs of new growth. The Rhubarb crowns are starting to swell, and I could begin the annual forcing process soon. Buds showing on the Ice Plants, and on the Lilac. Spring is not far away.
Monday 31 December 2012 New Year’s Eve
Another dark dismal rainy afternoon. I refilled the bird feeders this morning. One of the wire boxes had fallen from the post, and had been taken halfway up the garden. Must have been our Fox. Not much bird activity today. A friendly pair of Blackbirds and our Robin arrived the moment I scattered suet pellets along the path. So a miserable end to gardening in 2012. Wet, wet, wet.
Friday 28 December 2012
A brief afternoon stroll in a gloomy mild garden. Past the winter solstice, but days will not lengthen perceptibly till around the third week in January. A brief lull today in the rains – the year ends with seemingly endless belts of rain sweeping in from the south-west. It has made any form of gardening lately unpleasant and difficult.
Friday 21 December 2012
A dry and briefly sunny day in the midst of a rainy few days. No frost for a few days. More rain forecast. Three Goldfinches feeding off both the nyler seed feeder and the Lavender bushes. These lovely colourful little birds love Lavender seeds. Robins, Collared Doves, Blackbirds and our resident colony of Starlings all feeding in the garden this morning. Two days ago I spotted a scattered pile of what I think were pigeon feathers under the Big Fir. The work of a Fox, I’m sure. A long section of green plastic edging has also been dug out under the Box tree - more Fox activity no doubt, though the purpose is not clear.
Wednesday 12 December 2012
A bitterly cold frosty night, now a glorious sunny very cold frosty day. Perfect for walking on the moors or hills, and around the garden. I put more bird feed out – generous quantities, but little response today so far. Possibly food out elsewhere. Yesterday had about 15 Starlings feeding on food on the path, and a solitary Robin, and Great Tit. This morning I discovered an old grey sock under the Big Fir. Looks like a Fox has brought it. I suspect the Foxes may be visiting in the night to scavenge remaining bird feed scattered on the ground. They’re very welcome.
Monday 10 December 2012
Cold crisp sunny morning. Perfect. Our Squirrel has been seen around the garden over the weekend, feeding on the ground bird food. Saw a Blue Tit and Chaffinch this morning. Far fewer tits this winter so far. Where have the Coal Tits gone? The Chaffinch is around every day, usually close to the Big Fir. Two of the potted Rosemary plants have survived, the last of the lovely bushes we used to enjoy. Need to plant them out, and hope we don’t lose them to a harsh winter.
Friday 7 December 2012
A very cold bright sunny day, after a short snow / sleet shower early morning that didn’t settle. The snow has gone. I put more bird feed out today. Not much bird activity, but we had about a dozen Starlings yesterday, at the same time. Good to see they have kept their numbers up. I noticed that one of the new bird boxes in the woodland edge area has been slightly nibbled around the entrance hole. Probably Squirrels. No Squirrels seen in recent days.
Wednesday 5 December 2012
First snowfall of the winter – a few inches, which has remained all day due to the bitter cold. But a lovely crisp blue day. Brisk walk around the garden, after replenishing the bird food. A couple of Collared Doves, a solitary Blackbird and a Blue Tit, half dozen Starlings, and that’s the total attraction of the plentiful food in the garden. Surprising. Still haven’t got the spring bulb in.
Friday 30 November 2012
A cold frosty bright day. More bird feed out. I saw the first Blue Tit of this winter feeding in the garden on the suet blocks. With return of the feeding birds, however, has been feline predator visits – I saw three moggies in the garden today taking more than a passing interest in the birds. I’ve now places a feeder in the front Berberis Juliana bush for the first time, close to the new nesting box. It may be wiser to separate them. No Holly berries this year, unusually, but lots of deep red clusters of Honeysuckle berries.
Wednesday 28 November 2012
The rain has abated at last, probably just temporarily. Today has turned much colder, still dull and cloudy. The Starlings are back in numbers, My impression is that there is another year-on increase – I spotted about a dozen Starlings at the same time. I’ve increased the food available. Had a couple of Magpies, two Blackbirds and a Wood Pigeon in the garden feeding this afternoon. Seems the winter bird feeding station is open for business.
Friday 23 November 2012
A bright fine day, mildish, after incessant rain and high winds for the previous 24 hours. The new nesting box in the Berberis Juliana has shifted and will need to be refixed. A Magpie on the lawn has been about the total wild life in the garden today.
Wednesday 21 November 2012
Surely the most miserable November day on record in the garden? Rain all day, with heavy cloud cover, so dark and depressing. A wet walk round the garden. Found a new little patch of small Toadstools under the Big Fir. Checked the compost bins. Despite all the material added, all three bins have bedded down to about half-full. Luckily I managed to stuff all the remaining prunings from the Berberis Juliana into the brown garden waste bin ready for collection tomorrow morning. Still too wet to get the bulbs in. I think this late planting will delay the spring display.
Monday 19 November 2012
Dull and cold, rain on the way. I picked more Blackberries this morning – in November. If ever proof was needed of climate change, apart from the science. Still very few birds seen in the garden, despite the oncoming winter. Evidence under the Big Fir tree of Squirrel activity, digging little holes to bury conkers no doubt. I have got round this morning to cleaning out the old perished bird feed in the wire containers, and I’ve put a new stock of suet pellets and sunflower hearts in the terracotta feeder which hangs from a lower branch of the Big Fir.
Friday 17 November 2012
Another old-fashioned November day. Getting darker by mid-pm, a misty, damp chilly day, with a light shower. No incentive to gardening.
Wednesday 14 November 2012
A November day in the garden. Dry, dull, getting colder by the evening. But it was just the sense of November when I walked round the garden this morning. Hard to define, but instantly recognisable. Reminded me of November walks on the moors.
Monday 12 November 2012
Drizzle all afternoon, a dull dark day. The Honeysuckle on the pillar has set a profusion of red berry clusters. A feast for birds? I picked a few very late Blackberries in the garden this morning. Blackberries in mid-November!
Friday 9 November 2012
Cloudy and dull, with rain on the way. A dismal walk in the garden today. One Mushroom survives. There has been an increase in bird activity over the past week: Blackbirds, Magpies, Blue Tits. I need to clean and restock the bird feeders. Squirrels around yesterday, inspecting the hollow Pumpkin, but not eating.
Friday 2 November 2012
Bright crisp sunny morning, breezy. About right for early November. A few solitary flowers in the garden – Shasta Daisy, Feverfew. I noticed how high up the Big Fir the Bindweed had reached – about twenty feet. The wild garden area directly under this tree has become too wild, several self-set saplings of either Horse Chestnut or Elderberry. A single Mushroom on the south path.
Wednesday 31 October 2012 Hallowe’en
Another fairly miserable day, apart from a couple of sunny hours in the morning. I bought another nesting-box today, and fixed it about six feet up the Berberis Juliana, facing away from the road. Quite a tricky job securing it amid the long dangerous spiky thorns. Yesterday I hoed and weeded the borders, but have still not got the spring bulbs in. Main reason is the very heavy soil, after all the rain. We set our Pumpkin in front of the Box bush this evening, with two night lights, an effective marker of Hallowe’en. Made Pumpkin soup, with chillies and Coconut. Fiery.
Monday 29 October 2012
Light shower, brief sunny periods and much cloudier, but milder. Another attack today on the Berberis Juliana. It’s now more or less cut back to a suitable size. Competing with a large fast-growing tree in the next garden, they do rather complement each other. But the two inch long spines are a real hazard – basically this bush was a mistake. But it has been a great safe nesting place for birds. Usually Blackbirds. I may install a nesting box in the bush, facing away from the road, to try to attract smaller birds next spring.
Friday 26 October 2012
Cloudy, damp and dull, again. Another Mushroom has appeared, in the path along the south fence. Need to do more serious pruning of the Berberis Juliana, and also get the spring bulbs planted.
Monday 22 October 2012
Dull damp Monday morning in the garden. The two large white Mushrooms in the lawn have been pecked by birds, it appears. So I’ve covered them with chicken wire mesh, so they can mature and hopefully spread spores around for another later crop. Michaelmas Daisies still in bloom.
Friday 19 October 2012
Repeat of the recent rain at night pattern. Rather miserable mi-October weather, not conducive to much gardening. I’m waiting for a fine spell to get the new bulbs planted on the front border. Saw Blue Tits and what I am sure was a Robin in the garden this morning, after ages with very little bird activity. The Robin was feeding at the suet block hanging in a wire holder. Unusual. Robins are generally ground feeders. I took a second look – it was surely a Robin, but with what I thought was much lighter plumage blow the red breast. Perhaps a new coat after the moult. Still a few New Dawn Roses in bloom in this late flush.
Wednesday 17 October 2012
Rain overnight, then a bright sunny morning. A small late flush of New Dawn roses. Spotted two Mushrooms on the edge of the main lawn. Not seen them here before.
Monday 15 October 2012
Cloudy, colder but dry. Rain forecast tonight. Spotted numerous small Toadstools in the lawn this morning. About one cm diameter. No Mushrooms. The Michaelmas Daisies are still in flower - but not my favourite pale lilac variety. I hope to get the Daffodils, Tulips and bulbs I have lifted planted in the next few days.
Wednesday 10 October 2012
Cool, cloudy. Bit of sun. Spotted our new Robin in the garden this morning – or rather she spotted me. I’ve bought a good supply of bulbs which I will try to get in the front garden north border before the weekend. Large yellow Daffodils – I don’t think they are King Alfred’s, Giuseppe Verdi Tulips, and Darwin Tulips. The Tulips are mixed red and yellow. Hopefully they’ll give a cheerful display in the spring.
Monday 8 October 2012
Dull cloudy day with light drizzle in the morning. I pruned the Firethorn and the variegated Holly on the front north border at the weekend. Surprising how quickly plants grow out of control. Very few berries this year on both these bushes, probably due to the unseasonal weather. Spotted a striking solitary star-shaped yellow flower about one inch diameter near the terracotta bird feeder – another self-set from the bird seed I think. Last of the James Grieve apples harvested.
Friday 5 October 2012
Rainy and miserable. The Michaelmas Daisies are in flower in the top garden. They are the mauve variety, I seem to have lost the pale lilac ones I like best. The James Grieve apples are delicious as ever, as are the Pears. Fresh garden produce tastes so much better than supermarket.
Wednesday 3 October 2012
Cool and showery. I dug over more of the front north border. Lots of Bindweed roots and also Soapwort. I’ve allowed the Soapwort to spread out of control, so now having to dig it up wholesale. I’m certain a few pieces will be left to grow next year. This border needs more preparation before I plant the Crocus and also Muscari. Spotted a Magpie on the lawn this afternoon.
Monday 1 October 2012
A pleasant enough mild dry sunny day with passing clouds. I bought a bag of mixed crocus bulbs today, to go in the space I’ve cleared on the front north border where the Berberis Juliana was overhanging.
Friday 28 September 2012
Mainly cloudy with occasional shower and the sun peeping out a couple of times. Yesterday I did another heavy pruning on the Berberis Juliana in the front garden. More needed still – this large bush with the very long thorns had become seriously overgrown. This morning I heard a bird song I couldn’t identify, in the front garden. A glimpse of the songster wasn’t enough to identify, before it flew away. There is definitely a slight increase in bird activity in the garden as September draws to a close. This afternoon I spotted several rows of Starlings on TV aerials, reminiscent of the huge congregations of Starlings we used to see along telephone wires. I heard a Wren, and saw our Robin. A solitary Teasel in the top garden. Several bunches of green grapes. Just two Pears harvested from the Pear tree, a very poor crop, but the James Grieve Apples look fine. All the Hostas seem to have survived, but a couple have been badly mauled by slugs, and all of them have been held back by the unusual weather this year.
Wednesday 26 September 2012
About average temperatures for late September. A mixed day of sun and passing clouds. I haven’t seen any Squirrels in the garden, but this morning I spotted a conker half-hidden in moss at the base of the wall. Evidence they are hiding food away for the winter. A solitary Blue Tit at the bird feeder, and a noisy Magpie on the lawn.
Monday 24 September 2012
A windy wet day but getting a bit clearer by late afternoon. On Saturday I walked up to the top garden along the side path. As I approached the big Gooseberry bush I found a half-grown Fox sitting there, staring at me, as if to say ‘what are you doing in my garden?’ She turned and hurried off under the top fence. Good to see the Foxes seem to be surviving – lovely creatures. The only evidence of bird life today has been the occasional cawing of Crows.
Friday 21 September 2012
A dull cool day. More conker chippings and shells in the woodland area, but no Squirrel sightings, Several times today I’ve heard a sharp repetitive hammering sounds very much like a Woodpecker. Nothing seen. The Ferns in the woodland area have done badly this dry year. Several have died back, whilst the survivors seem stunted. No more Apple fallens, but a promising harvest.
Wednesday 19 September 2012
Much colder today. A north easterly. Bird life has vanished from the garden for ages, and no Squirrels seen either. But this morning I spotted a Robin as I sat briefly on the top garden bench. Looking very smart – I think the moult has just completed, or maybe it was a young bird. Then, on the ground under the Big Fir, I found several bits and pieces of conkers. Squirrels? Ice Plants mauve blooms in their gorgeous prime along the south border.
Monday 17 September 2012
One of those pleasant autumn days. Sunny, dry, mild. I found a new mushroom near the picnic bench this morning. But it was a poor specimen, shrivelled. The Apples are ripening. I did more substantial pruning of Berberis Juliana in the front garden at the weekend. This bush has grown out of control. Still more to do.
Friday 14 September 2012
Cloudy cool morning. A few nice red Roses in bloom at the top garden. I brought a single stem indoors. The garden generally seems very dry, almost parched, despite the wet summer. Presumably a result of the long dry winter. A fair Apple crop, but I noticed they are on the small side. A real tell-tale is the shrivelled sparse Blackberries. There are a few bunches of Grapes, despite my poor pruning technique last year, but they won’t ripen, unless there is a long warm Indian summer, which looks unlikely.
Wednesday 12 September 2012
A cooler day wit evening shower. Nights are drawing in with short evenings now. The four hanging baskets continue to give a good show, especially the red and mauve Petunias. The Ice Plants in the south border are brilliant.
Monday 10 September 2012
A light shower overnight after several dry hot days. Much cooler. The garden looks a bit tired, in between summer and autumn.
Monday 3 September 2012
A lovely early September day, quite warm, sunny, dry. Just that hint of autumn in the air. I sat on the top bench this morning. A deep silence in the garden. A large immaculate Spider’s web near the rose arch, about twelve inches across. A small web on the other side of the arch. I noticed a curious optical effect with sunlight reflecting off a long supporting strand of the web – appeared to be like a hologram. The arch has become a tangle of Roses, Grape Vines and Russian Vine. The Apples look a nice crop, still green. Pleased to see that several Borage plants along the south border seem free of that brown fungus which has attacked Borage for several years. Hopefully will mean these lovely herbs will self-set again for next year. At the weekend I collected Lavender seed heads to fill a little container to bring indoors. The Ice Plants are getting more mauve every day. All four hanging baskets looking good.
Friday 31 August 2012
August ends with at least one warm, sunny dry day, in the wettest summer for over 100 years. The Ice Plants have started to turn, now a pale mauve. There are four large clumps along the south border which will create an impressive display in full bloom. I disturbed an adult frog this morning in the top garden. More pruning of the front Berberis Juliana which has become seriously overgrown this year. Needs much more to get it back under control. The Blackberries are very disappointing; just tiny shrivelled fruit not worth picking. More evidence of the impact of this year’s weather.
Wednesday 29 August 2012
Bright and sunny morning then cloud and rain. Cool and autumnal. The Ice Plants are not yet in flower.
Monday 27 August 2012
A cool showery few days. Practically zero bird life in the garden. Is it the moulting season I wonder? A few nice Roses, otherwise the garden has settled into early autumn, without much of a harvest. The Redcurrants are doing best, but much down on previous years.
Friday 24 August 2012
Close, cloudy and rain on the way. I dug up the Charlotte potatoes this afternoon. A pathetic harvest. It would have been simpler to eat the seed potatoes. This disappointment is shared with much of the garden produce this year. The James Grieve apples are decent crop, for this eighty year old tree. But only two tiny Pears. A nice surprise today was a lovely Princess Elizabeth rose cluster just in bloom. The arch roses, Compassion and Ena Harkness, have been very poor this year. I wonder if next year things will bounce back provided we get more seasonal weather.
Wednesday 22 August 2012
Much cooler, but mainly bright with cloud later and a very light shower. This morning I spotted the Starlings feeding noisily on the suet blocks for the first time in ages, then they disappeared again. But very few Swifts, and no Bats seen. Seems a severe shortage of flying insects this season. The hanging baskets are still looking good and growing well with new flowers appearing. Regular watering and feeding is the key. The Ice Plants will soon be in flower.
Monday 20 August 2012
A sultry cloudy morning, with a brief spell of light fine rain The Oil Rape Seed self-set suffered a massive attack by caterpillars at the weekend. Dozens of greenish creatures stripping it bare. I pulled the plant out and dumped it in the brown waste bin. Possibly I should have let it be, in the interests of the wildlife garden. Noticed a similar but lesser attack on a Redcurrant bush, and a Gooseberry. I think they are caterpillars of the Small Orange Butterfly. The south border looks good. The Ice Plants not yet in flower, unlike Lavender, Borage and Hyssop. New Dawn Rose looks a mess, with no roses and dried brownish leaves. First touches of Autumn in the air.
Friday 17 August 2012
A pleasant seasonal morning, but clouds on the way. The Hostas like much of the garden have suffered due to the dry conditions over winter I fear. They are not their usual luxuriant display – instead rather grey and tatty, worse the wear for attention from snails and slugs despite organic deterrent. I wonder what the Charlotte potatoes will look like when I harvest them – overdue. The self-set plant, from bird seed, which looks like Oil Seed Rape, is now setting pods. The Grape Vines have grown out of control after the hard pruning last year, with no fruit to be seen.That sweet cloying Buddleia scent is around the top garden. Honeysuckle starting to flower.
Wednesday 15 August 2012
Very dark afternoon, with rain threatening. Mowed the lawns yesterday evening. Found a dead mouse on the lawn under the Big Fir. Pruned the Berberis Juliana; this bush grows very fast, pruning almost seems to make matters worse. I noticed that one large stem of the Angelica has turned pale yellow. So much foliage in the garden is suffering, and all the soft fruit has had a bad year, with the Blackberries going the same way. Possibly the odd weather this year. When I was busy mowing the front lawn yesterday a small Frog leapt away just in time.
Monday 13 August 2012
Seems like a return to the usual August weather ie cool, cloudy & rain, though today has been dry. The lawns have greened up. Need cutting soon before the grass grows away again. I noticed this morning that the original big Gooseberry bush has suffered from an attack of the leaf-devouring bug, probably caterpillars. The smaller bush that has been affected in recent years seems to have been untouched this year. Why? Garden birds are very quiet, almost non-existent. No Starlings for awhile, no takers for the suet blocks in the feeders. I think it may be a moulting time.
Friday 10 August 2012
Lovely summer’s day – hot, dry, sunny. It’s odd how none of the Chives have flowered this year, and they all look stunted. I suspect it is due to the very dry winter and early spring. Possibly the same reason the Rhubarb has done very little, after a fine forced growth, the Gooseberries have dropped the fruits prematurely, few Pears & Apples, and a small Redcurrant crop ….. Sitting in the sun this morning on the top bench, I noticed how the solitary Teasel flowering head is just turning to that familiar shade of purple. I found another broken white eggshell, this time near the Clematis at the top far corner of the garden.
Wednesday 8 August 2012
Rather warmish and damp but dull. This morning I spotted a Fox in the garden, under the Big Fir near the woodland edge. First I’ve seen for a good few months. Busy preening, it looked a fairly young adult. Stayed a while in no hurry, as though it had been there some time. Possibly sleeps here. I have noticed a flattened area of grass and vegetation here. The Angelica is growing well and taking on the elephantine plant appearance. It’s just a single specimen. Also nearby at the top garden a single Teasel. The pyramid Honeysuckle has not yet flowered. Blackberries are small green things.
Monday 6 August 2012
Quite mild but sunshine and showers continue. The Gooseberries are rapidly going overripe and falling. I think it may be due to the unusual weather this year. Dry early, then wet wet wet. But I tasted a few Gooseberries walking around the garden this afternoon, and Redcurrants. Hanging baskets on the front looking fine.
Friday 3 August 2012
Warmer and sunny afternoon, but rain promised for the weekend. Disappointed that another of the self-set Borage plants has acquired the brown blotches on leaves which happens every year. New Dawn rose is also the worse for wear with brown patches on many leaves. Our Wrens seem to have flown and the garden birdlife is very quite. The Starlings have gone and recent new suet block go untouched. Maybe plenty of summer food available. The Swifts have bee3n high overhead, as usual each summer, despite reports of diminished numbers elsewhere.
Wednesday 1 August 2012
Cloudy and cool, odd showers. Found a broken white bird’s egg shell under the Big Fir. Collared Dove or Woodpigeon. I think our Wren’s have fledged. The nest appears empty. Perhaps that Wren alarm call has been a decoy away from the chicks? I hope there hasn’t been a predator around. The lawns are greening up after the shock mowing last week.
Monday 30 July 2012
Much cooler lately, with sun & showers. April style. The Gooseberries are now definitely ripened, falling, and need picking very soon. The Grape Vines are rampant. My pruning is haphazard and I’m not sure how much of the new growth will be fruit-bearing, Whenever I go to the top garden the Wren still follows me with the alarm call. No second Wren nest discovered. The front hanging baskets are growing well.
Friday 27 July 2012 Opening Ceremony of London Olympics 2012
A cloudy morning, but still very warm and dry. The Wrens are feeding the chicks in the patio wall nest. I suspect there may be another Wren nest at the top garden, unless it is the male Wren trying to distract me away from the patio nest. Now have four hanging baskets on the front tree. I haven’t bothered with these baskets for several years, but they do create a bright & cheerful impression. New Dawn roses have faded, apart from a small late flowering. Angelica is now about three feet tall and becoming a characteristically elephantine plant. The Sedum Spurium is in flower; it has spread around the base of New Dawn over as large an area as I’ve ever seen. I rescued this plant from the front garden rockery only a year or so ago.
Wednesday 25 July 2012
The summer spell continues, with another hot sunny dry day. Mowed all lawns yesterday. The mover did tangle in the long stringy grasses but I was able to untangle it and no damage done. I reset the mover blades which seem to be beneficial. Discovered a nest in the house wall near the patio – a Wren. Busy feeding the chicks. Surprising I hadn’t noticed this earlier. But Wrens are very small secretive birds, though with a surprisingly loud song. Trimmed the south border which as filled out after last year’s replanting and is actually now a bit crowded. I’ve started the task of pruning back the Russian Vine at the top fence. It is massively overgrown, but does an excellent screening job. This morning I planted the second hanging basket, with Petunia, red and white Geraniums, Ivy and Fuchsia. Now in place hanging from a branch of the big front tree. I wonder how the Charlotte potatoes are doing underground? I sat out late yesterday evening reading on the bench. A wonderful still balmy summer’s eve.
Monday 23 July 2012
A glorious summer’s day like what we haven’t had. Hot (30 deg C) blue skies, sunny all day, and no rain .. I have severely pruned the front garden tree, taking out several large branches to allow access to the phone line. Had the idea of hanging baskets from the remaining branch stumps. The first hanging basket is in place, with a central upright red geranium and six edging white trailing geraniums. I hope to make a start of lawn moving this evening. Need to be careful not to tangle the mower, some of the grasses are a foot high. The Lavenders are in bloom, and for the first time I’ve noticed the Cotton Lavenders carry small button yellow flowers. Attractive against the silvery foliage. The Southernwood is looking magnificent. The cool shade of the woodland edge area is very pleasant.
Friday 20 July 2012
Slightly warmer but still below July average and dull today. This morning I noticed that one of the Gooseberry bushes that for the past couple of years has been attacked by caterpillars and quickly defoliated, is fine this year and bearing a decent crop. Perhaps the weather is responsible. Our Goldfinches back today at the nyler seeds. The Lavender bushes are in flower. The potted Rosemary plants, which were cuttings, need planting out urgently. They look in distress, possibly much too wet conditions for this Mediterranean plant. We have lost three of our ferns in the woodland edge area.
Wednesday 18 July 2012
Certainly warmer today, but more of this rain. We are promised a change by next week ….. This morning I noticed a stem of has climbed to around twenty feet up the Big Fir. I’ve let this wild area around the Big Fir grow unchecked this year. Consequently, it is overgrown far more than previous years. It will need some control I think. Found a snail atop a Jack by the Hedge plant - clearly snails are not averse to garlic. One or two Gooseberries are falling to the ground, a sure sign these are getting ripe and need picking. They quickly go over. Sweet tasting, as are the ripened Redcurrants, but the latter are a much lighter crop than previous years. Perhaps the bushes are getting old. I need to take cuttings. A flock of a dozen young Starlings squabbling and squawking around the suet feeders then flying off en masse at some noise.
Monday 16 July 2012
Dull, cloudy with light drizzle. I put down more inorganic slug pellets this morning around all the Hostas, to try to reduce the slug and snail damage. Whilst this damage is not devastating it is obvious and needs to stop. Two Hostas are in flower, white and pale lilac. Seems the slugs are thriving in these wet conditions. Tasted a Gooseberry – they are sweeter now and close to harvesting. Last year I left them too late, and lost a good percentage. By the time we emerge from this endless Rainy Season midsummer days will have passed and we will be well on the way towards the autumn. Another lost summer I fear. Gardening has been difficult, and we’ve had no hot sunny days when pottering in the garden is a pleasure.
Friday 13 July 2012
A slightly brighter day but rain forecast later. Another torrential down pour late yesterday evening. I found a few grey-white feathers on the lawn this morning. Has a Cat or Fox been at work? The Hostas remain in fine form, with one in bloom with white flowers, but all these plants have suffered slug or snail attacks. I spotted small Apples on the old tree today. Looks a light crop, but I feared there was nothing. Only two tiny Pears, which is a fraction of the usual crop. New Dawn still in prolific display, but rather battered by all the rain. When will the weather change for the better?
Wednesday 11 July 2012
The Rainy Season continues remorselessly. A torrential downpour this afternoon. An excellent Gooseberry crop. Eatable but a bit too tart. The first Redcurrants are ripe and sweet-tasting. Still unable to mow the lawns, they look like a hay-meadow. A nice show of Scarlet Clematis (Cardinal Rouge), but they are almost overrun by the rampant Russian Vine.
Monday 9 July 2012
Rain and cloud. Cool for July. I spotted a Goldfinch on the nyler seed feeder at the weekend, and the seed level has reduced. So I topped it up this morning. Starlings still busy feeding. We seem yet again to be losing seasonal weather – those calm dry warm July days. Where have they gone?
Friday 6 July 2012
More of the inevitable rain & cloud. It’s been like this for so long. The Hostas are all growing well, and flower shoots have appeared on several. But the slugs are attacking, the despite the organic pellets I’ve put down. Just a few chewed leaves. If it gets much worse it will need further action. The top garden is like a jungle, and the lawns are so overgrown they are now like flowering meadows. Quite nice, but not lawns. I’ve noticed that a few odd plants are growing apparently from the all the bird seed feed. Some are obviously cereals like wheat or barley, but there is also a cabbage-like plan growing on the woodland edge.
Wednesday 4 July 2012
Mainly cloudy and dull, just a brief sight of the sun. Hordes of Starlings have decimated the latest refills of suet blocks. Seems a very poor or even non-existent Apple and Pear crop this year. New dawn just starting to go over, though still a brilliant display. I wonder why the ferns in the woodland area have done so poorly this second year? Perhaps low soil fertility?
Monday 2 July 2012
Dark miserable cold brooding day. Awful for ‘summer’. Yet another summer going down the drain it seems. Where have all our Squirrels gone? The Redcurrants are turning red, and the Gooseberries are eatable but more ripening needed. Pleased the Starlings are back in even greater numbers, another batch of fledglings I think, all asking to be fed, noisily, and rapidly consuming the fresh suet slabs I put out at the weekend. Yesterday a tiny bird got into the lounge through the open window, and couldn’t find the way out. It was fluttering crazily against the window. I whistled softly, it stopped and literally looked round at me, calmed down. Not the first time birds have responded to my whistles – Robins, Blackbirds. I opened the large window, and in a few seconds she flew off. A lovely marked little chick, must be just fledged. It was a Goldfinch, yellow bars on the wings and a yellow line on top of the crown, but no obvious red there yet. Thos morning a less pleasant experience; I found a dead young Starling under the picnic bench. Gave it a solemn burial in the woodland area.
Friday 29 June 2012
No thunder but a very hot close day yesterday. Today dull fresh and breezy, spitting with rain. Feverfew in flower; white daisy-like flowers, self-set around the garden, with a rather musky small, but good to see the return each year of this herb. Angelica becoming the strong powerful tall plant it is. Not in a very sunny spot at the top garden, but now tall enough to get plenty of sun. It’s a pleasure to roam around the garden and crush leaves between the fingers and smell the scent – Parsley and Mint this morning. We’ve had the usual clumps of Toadstools appearing, under the Big Fir which is a favourite for fungi, and on the old Berberis stump. They appear as if by magic, and disappear almost as suddenly.
Wednesday 27 June 2012
Turning hot and sunny, but close, as the day wore on. Thunder expected. We have a second Borage self-set. The other plant unfortunately has the brown discoloured leaves appearing, it’s a disease which affects our Borage every year now. How to prevent? The Campanula is in flower, next to the top seat. None of the Chives are flowering yet, or are even in bud. Definitely a major delay, and the plants seem small and starved. Maybe due to the very dry weather earlier in the year. The garden is overgrown and has a neglected look.
Monday 25 June 2012
Drier and warmer today, but still a long way from June weather. New Dawn roses continue to flower and becoming quite impressive along the south fence. Borage, just a single plant this year so far, in bloom – those attractive blue flowers. Haven’t seen anything of the Squirrels for a while. Are they busy with their young? A Magpie was feeding on the hanging wire holders this afternoon. The lawns desperately need cutting. The grasses are flowering. Actually, they look quite nice.
Friday 22 June 2012
The longest day of the year has come and gone in continued wet, dark miserable weather. The new mushroom under the Big Fir is obviously suited to the conditions – it is about four inches diameter now. Never risked eating these regular mushroom, partly because I haven’t identified them positively, but the do look entirely like field mushrooms. Our young Starlings continue to squabble over the hanging suet feeders, about ten young birds. The Ena Harkness and Compassion roses over the arch have been joined now by the Russian Vine due to my neglect with keeping this vigorous grower in check. The top garden is starting to look like a jungle. The rain has helped fill out the Gooseberries; not quite ripe yet, but another fine crop. Redcurrants seem fewer this year, they are just turning pink now.
Wednesday 20 June 2012
The awful June weather continues, just the occasional bit of sunny dry weather. New Dawn roses have started to flower. Just a sprinkling of blooms so far but it will soon turn into a glorious mass of pale pink. I replenished the bird feeders with suet blocks yesterday and this morning our young Starlings were all back, about ten of them. That’s good. Noticed some pest damage on the Hostas in the woodland area. I haven’t seen any evidence of slugs and snails, but I put organic bait down yesterday. I shall have to watch carefully; significant damage to the foliage can happen surprisingly swiftly. Our Swifts are back, but the numbers seem down. Perhaps there are laggards still to arrive.
Monday 18 June 2012
A bit drier warmer and brighter. I found a Frog at the back of the water butt this morning. Frogs seem to have an instinct for water. They must surely have some sensory mechanism enabling them to locate water, even in small amounts. The Gooseberries are getting plump, helped no doubt by all the recent rain. The lawns need mowing. I haven’t fed the birds for a week or so, and our young Starlings have disappeared.
Friday 15 June 2012
This awful June weather continues. It’s clear that we have lost two of the ferns introduced into the woodland edge area last year. I don’t know why – possibly they were delicate varieties. The Ferns in the front garden are doing well. It’s often difficult to understand why some plants succeed and others fail. This morning I cut down the luxuriant Comfrey stems and flowers in the front garden border. They had been blown over on to the lawn, but I cut the Comfrey down a couple of times each year and add it to the compost bins. They are very vigorous plants and recover in no time. The south border is very green, but no other colours. I haven’t planted interstitial annual this year. As the summer progresses the Lavender and Ice Plants will flower, and I’m hoping New Dawn will transform this border soon.
Wednesday 13 June 2012
A drier but mainly dull interlude before more rain promised. We have just one Borage plant so far this summer, self-set, that has appeared in the south border. I shall nurture it, Borage is a very welcome addition each year. The single Angelica is doing well despite being in a quite shady spot at the top garden. It has survived the recent squally weather – it’s a sturdy plant despite its height that is well able to survive a battering. No New Dawn roses in bloom yet, but lots of rose buds evident. Provided the weather eventually turns more summery, we should see a spectacular display. Overall the garden looks neglected, which it has been.
Monday 11 June 2012
Rain all day (and last night), dark all day. About as grim a June day as can be imagined. The Comfrey in the front border has been blown or knocked down across the lawn by the driving rain. The garden is a dismal affair. The Honeysuckle not yet in flower. I don’t know what happened to the Lady’s Smock this year. When will we ever see a warm balmy June evening?
Friday 8 June 2012
Strong winds and driving rain today. I found a dead young Starling under the big Fir this afternoon. I seem to have lost a couple of the ferns I planted last year in the woodland edge area around the stepping stones. Possibly due to hard winter frosts. The Helxine here has survived well although it’s a bit patchy in places, but will recover and spread. Had to tie back a branch of Ena Harkness which had been blown off the arch at the top garden. Strawberries, Gooseberries and Charlotte potatoes are all coming on well.
Wednesday 6 June 2012
Mainly showery. First Roses are in flower: Ena Harkness and Compassion around the arch at the top garden. No New Dawn yet. The garden has leapt into growth recently. No more mushrooms. Still lots of young fledged Starlings feeding at the bird table feeders. They have voracious appetites. I counted a dozen young Starlings at the same time yesterday.
Monday 4 June 2012
Drier today after several days of persistent rain, and quite cool weather. At least the garden generally is looking green. Lawns due for a cut. No Roses in bloom yet anywhere, which seems rather late this year. New Dawn has put on plenty of new growth after the heavy pruning and disturbance last year when the south border fence section was replaced. A lovely scent of Lovage in the cool evening air.
Friday 1 June 2012
Cloudy and cool start, with occasional sun. The Aquilegias are all in bloom and looking delightful as ever, in there wonderful colour variations, from white to dark purple. I was pleased to see a little clump of Buttercups at the edge of the woodland area, I think they are the globe sort. Lots of Goose Grass, which is a bit of a nuisance but always good to see. Lily of the Valley are going over; Lady Smock a big disappointment this year. I’ve noticed they haven’t done very well in the wild where they are usually out in glorious profusion. Perhaps just late this year.
Wednesday 30 May 2012
Sunny morning then cloud increasing later, with a few spots of rain. The Grape Vines are slowly coming into leaf, they seem quite late this year, and appear to have lost some of their vigour. Hostas all growing well, and the older ones might benefit from subdivision. The stepping stone area in the woodland edge is looking a bit tired and needs refreshing, though most of the planting last year has survived quite well, including the Helxine. No sign of any apples on the old tree, which would be very unusual.
Monday 28 May 2012
Hot and sunny. The single Angelica plant, at the top garden, is growing strongly and is now about three feet high, with a similar spread. They are large – elephantine – plants. This is the single specimen I kept after the profusion of self-sets from the original plant on the south border a few years ago. A few Teasel self-sets also growing in odd places, and nice to see Borage making a return. A Mushroom under the Big Fir, on the border path. Unusual conditions I would have thought, but I’ve heard of a profusion of wild mushrooms around now. The lawns need a cut, but I’m reluctant given this dry spell and low growth lately. The peonies are in bloom in their full glory in the north border. An excellent display this year. Bluebells fading rapidly.
Friday 25 May 2012
Hot dry sunny days continuing, but a stiff easterly breeze, peasant, but too the edge off the temperatures. I watched three young Squirrels chasing each other around the garden. I assume they are from this year’s litter. I earthed up the Charlotte potatoes this morning, the stems are now about a foot high and growing rapidly. Time for the parasol over the picnic bench and our tables out at the top garden ‘Grove’. Our new solar table light looks good after dark.
Wednesday 23 May 2012
Summer has arrived. Hot (25deg C) dry sunny. After a hazy early morning. Last night I walked around the garden late, looking for Bats, not seen, but how the scents of plants are enhanced in the cool evening air. Lovage foliage scent wafting. The young Starlings are using our garden as a permanently open bird canteen. One little Starling sits on top of one feeder for hours - no exaggeration - pecking away at the adjacent suet block, and also pecking at any other bird who tries to take her place. I counted twelve young Starlings in the garden today at the same time, all feeding. New Dawn rose have put on a growth spurt but no flowers yet. The Gooseberries are filling out.
Monday 21 May 2012
Still cloudy and cool, but promises of warmer weather this week. I’ve been watching the young Starlings feeding. A group of five young birds have taken up residence on the horizontal poles supporting the feeders. They spend the whole day here apart from times they are disturbed, continuously feeding on the suet blocks. They really have voracious appetites. I hope this leads to more Starlings around next winter. The Angelica is about three feet high, just the single plant, in the top garden. The Charlotte potatoes need earthing up soon. Campanula has survived the winter well and looks healthy, not in flower yet. If it gets warmer soon there could be a burst of new growth all around the garden. We haven’t had the usual spring explosion this year, due to the cold dull weather.
Friday 18 May 2012
A miserable dull cloudy cool day, not what you expect for mid-May. The self-set Aquilegias are coming into flower, some new plants in unlikely places. I also encourage and enjoy our native wild flowers and plants when they appear. Herb Robert and Dock. Jack by the hedge is quite common around the garden, along the paths especially. It grows about eighteen inches tall, with small white flowers and when rubbed in the fingers smell lightly of garlic. It can be used in salads, I’ve yet to try this. We have a bird visitor in the form of a Pigeon, with a lovely white set of tail feathers resident in the garden at the moment; it has leg bands, one red and the other yellow. I think it may be a racing pigeon that is lost and has decided to take a break. It seems happy feeding on the lawn this minute, with our Collared Doves and the young Starlings.
Wednesday 16 May 2012
Sunnier today but still coolish. Just a bit too cool to be pleasant to sit out. This morning I was disturbed by a Crow cawing vigorously and continuously. I spotted it about two feet away from a black cat in a nearby bush. Neither creature actually attacked the other, and eventually the Crow flew off. I imagine it has a nest nearby and was defending territory, but no nest can be seen. Lovely scent around the top bench from the perennial yellow / orange Sweet Williams. A mystery why our little patch of Lady’s Smock has not flowered this year. I wonder if the problem is related to stunted and distorted growth in one of the Hostas and the adjacent group of Cowslips – due I wonder to overfeeding with liquid worm feed? I’ve noticed the Lily of the Valley, now in flower, have luxuriant foliage but sparse flower stems. I think the unidentified Tits are Coal, not Willow; the white stripe at the back of the head is the clincher.
Monday 14 May 2012
Cool with cloud after morning drizzle. I mowed the lawns yesterday, timely before the rain, now looking tidy. More bird food out – the garden birdlife is really very active these days, no doubt due to the broods that need feeding. The Goldfinches are very regular visitors. I think we have Willow Tits. I’m not certain of the ID. The Peonies are doing well but not yet in flower, and no Roses out either. I forked over the south border, which looks fine.
Friday 11 May 2012
A sunnier and milder day, but getting breezy. The Bluebells are out, and there’s a Lilac blossom and some Aquilegia. I’ve stepped up the bird feeding to help support the young birds, especially the Blackbirds.
Wednesday 9 May 2012
Dismal May weather continues. The lawns are looking healthy, and the grass is not too overgrown (except in a small area near the woodland edge), but will need the first cut soon. Very late compared to the average spring. I’ve replenished all the bird feeders. Delighted the Goldfinches continue to visit the nyler feeder, every day I spot at least one Goldfinch. The renewed Strawberry bed is looking good. I think all the plants have survived. They will need netting & protection soon if we are going to have any fruit. South border looking good. No sign of New Dawn in bloom yet.
Monday 7 May 2012
Fairly typical bank holiday – cold, dull, cloudy, drizzle. May has not arrived yet. Even my Lady’s Smock or Cuckoo Flower if you prefer looks as though it’s still midwinter, certainly no sign whatever of those lovely pink flowers redolent of spring. The Charlotte potatoes are just pushing through Gooseberry bushes look promising, Lily of the Valley not in flower, nor Bluebells. I found a Frog in the water butt this afternoon. Doesn’t look very healthy; alive but immobile on the lawn. I think we have had visits from Long Tailed Tits. Not certain of the ID. An interesting feature of recent days is the appearance of four immature Blackbirds, with a mature male bird who is trying to feed them. First time I’ve seen a Blackbird competing with the Starlings for the suet blocks in our wire containers. He is not quite so agile, but isn’t doing too badly. Flies straight to the young birds and pops the morsels in their beaks. Interesting learned behaviour from these ground-feeding birds. So, looks like we have already had one Blackbird brood successful, and early.
Friday 4 May 2012
Disappointingly cold and dull for early May. Dry today. The Hostas in the woodland edge are doing very well. Perhaps the microclimate here is a bit milder, and I have kept watering these plants. The Peony border by the north facing wall is fine, but no flowers yet. The south border, replanted last year, is looking good.
Wednesday 2 May 2012
Cloudy and dull but mild. Our friendly Blackbird is still at close hand the minute I walk in the garden. Rosemary still in pots but in flower. Good to see that misty dreamy blue. The very old James Grieve Apple tree in blossom. And a lovely scent from the perennial Wallflower. This plant has done really well and the cuttings I took from the original plant have thrived. A dank smell in the garden this morning after more heavy rain yesterday. The lawns look lush and will need the first cut soon – much later than in most years, due to the exceptionally dry winter and early spring.
Monday 30 April 2012
A dry sunny and warmer day after several days of persistent heavy rain. The garden needed it. We have been away for two weeks. The garden did not seem to have put on as much growth as I expected to find on our return. The Hostas are all growing strongly, about four inches high, except ‘Big Daddy’ which has not yet appeared. It was slow last year. Bluebells not yet in bloom. The Cowslips are still looking lovely. New Dawn rose looks healthy and has a good leaf cover already. Several of the ferns in the woodland edge look a bit dry and brown, perhaps due to the dry spring.
Wednesday 11 April 2012
Showery but much of the garden is still parched, particularly in the woodland edge area. Found a large Frog near the water butt this morning. They seem to have an instinctive way of locating water. By smell? Nice display of Tulips, - red, yellow. The Hydrangea seems to have suffered – many shoots seem to have died. I wonder if a frost has caught it? Several of the Hostas are pushing through. The path through the woodland edge has lately become littered with dead leaves and bits of plant debris through up by either Squirrels or birds, probably searching for food or nesting material. I swept it off the path this afternoon. The days are rapidly lengthening. It remains quite light until 8 pm now.
Friday 6 April 2012 Good Friday
Distinctly cold and dull. Our friendly Blackbird gets ever tamer. I think it’s a young female. She approaches to a whistle, and looks expectantly for suet pellets sprinkled on the ground, going for them immediately. The other day she followed me as I made my way back to the kitchen door. I hope she is cat aware. Tulips in bloom in back and front gardens. The Parsley clump is growing strongly. It is a biennial, but I had assumed I planted it at one year old. Pear buds are swelling.
Wednesday 4 April 2012
Fresher but a bright morning, cloudier and light rain late afternoon. I sat on the top garden seat early morning. Surprising how still and quiet. As usual, when you stop and stay silent, the wildlife stirs. A Dunnock searching for food under the large gooseberry bush; a pair of Blackbirds interested in each other and careless of my presence. Goldfinches darting among the trees. The Tansy, Angelica, Lovage and Aquilegia all growing strongly. It’s the Rite of Spring in the garden.
Monday 2 April 2012
Lovely sunny morning, cloudier by late afternoon. The front garden Berberis Juliana is now in full flower in its yellow glory. Quite spectacular. The white flowers of the alpine Arabis on the stone wall are also out. Still many visits by the Goldfinches to the niger seed feeder. Lots of these tiny thistle seeds get lost and fall to the ground as the birds feed. The new Strawberry beds seem to be taking, and should be helped by the cooler weather, and the rain forecast for this week, after this very long dry spell.
Friday 30 March 2012
Cooler today with increasing cloud, but still bright. I planted the Charlotte potatoes, just a few tubers. Last year they gave an excellent crop of small salad potatoes. The Lily of the Valley shoots are an inch or so through. This bed in the top garden is thriving and increasing in size. Seems to be just the right location in terms of shade and dampness. The Peony bed is now tidy and they are doing well.
Wednesday 28 March 2012
Another hot dry day, around low 20’s C. I used the hosepipe today to get a bit of water to the Ferns and Hostas in the woodland edge area, and help the Helxine between the stepping stones. I think it has survived those hard frosts. The cool still evening air in the garden is a pleasure. In recent evenings the crescent Moon, Venus and Jupiter have been close and prominent mid-evening. Quite a dramatic and unusual sight. I looked for Bats this evening, but none seen. The lawns are growing fast and will soon need the first cut this year.
Monday 26 March 2012
This warm dry sunny spring weather continues; we are now in BST. Blue sky. This morning a Dunnock was singing atop the Russian Vine, and flitting around in the tangle of intertwined branches and stems. I wonder if it has a nest here. The Russian Vine is not yet in leaf, though buds are evident. It has become an impenetrable screen of the top fence. I have three nesting boxes embedded in the tangle, which are usually sought-after residences. Yesterday a Crow was apparently stranded in the garden. Seemed unable to fly very far; a large adult bird. Its mate was circling around with loud caws most of the day. Whenever I approached it took cover behind the piles of logs and branches in the woodland area. Nowhere in sight this morning. I’ve remade the Strawberry beds. Two varieties, Cambridge and Florence. Giving a total of 21 plants. Also reset the Jerusalem Artichokes and a few Horseradish stems. I generally tided up the borders at the weekend, deadheading, and cutting back the Lavender bushes, Cotton lavender and Hyssop. The garden is parched.
Friday 23 March 2012
Another bright sunny dry day. The Muscari is now in flower and Lily of the Valley shoots are pushing up. Lady’s Smock clumps have survived but in need of watering in this very dry spring. Delightful scent of the perennial Wallflowers around the top garden bench. Aquilegias are growing vigorously. Snowdrops gone over now, and Bluebells are doing well but not yet in flower, apart from one early specimen. A lovely spring morning in the garden.
Wednesday 21 March 2012
A bright sunny dry day again. Yesterday was the first day of spring. The days are rapidly lengthening now. Goldfinches still feasting on the nyler seeds – some brands call them niger seeds. Whatever, they go like hot cakes with the Goldfinches.
Monday 19 March 2012
A bright sunny start to the week, still dry. I did a bit of leisurely weeding and tidying-up this morning. Spotted several small white downy feathers on the ground near the Big Fir. Surely can’t be from nestlings, this early? Yet I did find broken egg shells a week or so ago. First Cowslips in flower. There is no obvious sign of nest building in any of our nine nesting boxes.
Friday 16 March 2012
Back to cloud and dull after a glorious blue sunny day yesterday. Our first Daffodil is in bloom, and our first Bluebell. A large flock of Starlings raiding the bird food in the garden today. They are very welcome; Starling numbers have dropped in recent years. Lots of Greenfinches feeding, and the Goldfinches are on the nyler seed feeder every day. I bought a new feeder on a slim pole this week, shaped as a cutaway large peach for the food. It has a little imitation Blue Tit perched on the edge. It’s naff really, I don’t know why I bought it, and the feeder bowl is poorly designed. I suspect the perched Tit is discouraging real birds coming to feed, I haven’t spotted any yet, though I think there has been some attention from our Squirrels or Foxes.
Wednesday 14 March 2012
Still cloudy dull but colder and no fog here this morning. More food out for the birds, but the Squirrels are among the first on the scene. We have an unusually tame Blackbird, a young female, who appears the moment I start scattering the suet pellets. Nice to see Greenfinches among the early takers, and our little gang of Starlings are soon on the scene. The first Daffodil almost in bloom, the yellow flower-head not yet open. Snowdrops are fading now. Pleased to see the Strawberry bed has survived the winter, and the first bronze shoots of Lovage emerging from the earth. It will only take a warm spell now for the spring garden to burst forward.
Monday 12 March 2012
A foggy start and still dull at midday, but remaining mild. Cowslips are in flower in the front garden, and a Hyacinth, with the dainty white flowers of the Arabis Coburg-Ferdinandii on the sandstone wall. The garden is fast waking up. At the weekend I did a spot of gardening, pruning back the old Blackberry stems and clearing overhanging growth of Variegated Holly and Gooseberry from the stepping stone paths at the top garden.
Friday 9 March 2012
Dry and milder, sunny periods. The many Chives plants lining the top garden borders are growing strongly, about three inches or more. The Campanula, Aubrietia and Perennial Sweet William have all survived the sharp frosts of the winter and are thriving. I spotted three Goldfinches in the garden today, feeding on the nyler seeds which are a favourite. Snowdrops still in bloom. I have a total of nine bird nesting boxes of various sorts around the garden, including an old kettle and watering can. Interesting to see how many nests we have this year. I’ve found several white egg shells in the garden this week. Too early for Pigeons or any birds I would have thought, but these shell fragments look fresh.
Monday 5 March 2012
A sunny windy morning. March winds. Another peep under the black bin covering the Rhubarb crowns. The forced growth has started. I poured a bucket of diluted wormery feed on the crowns. I cleared up leaves in the front garden. Three large tubs full, straight into the compost bins. Replenished the bird food on the terracotta feeder and sprinkled more of the ground for the ground feeders – Blackbirds especially, and I’ve observed that the Greenfinches like to feed on the ground.
Friday 2 March 2012
Dull and colder today after a lovely crisp sunny day yesterday. I noticed this morning that the Cowslips are in flower in the front border, but not yet in the back garden. They are lovely plants, and seem to flower at odd times throughout the year apart from the spring display.
Wednesday 29 February 2012
I heard the Great Tits this morning with their ‘teacher, teacher’ calls, sounding like a bicycle tyre pump in operation. The spring bulbs are well advanced, Tulips, Hyacinths, Daffodils and Bluebells all growing strongly but none in flower yet and no flower buds visible. Today is dull, cloudy and quite mild as this remarkably dry February draws to a close. Much of the garden is quite parched and would benefit from a shower or watering.
Monday 27 February 2012
Yesterday I saw for the first time this year the early signs of nest-building activity by a female Blackbird. She was scurrying around picking up bits of straw. Lots of bird activity generally, as I continue putting out plenty of varied bird food.
Friday 24 February 2012
Mostly a pleasant mild bright day, with just a spot of rain. I watched Goldfinches feeding on the nyler seed feeder this morning. They are really exotic-looking small birds. I’m pleased they seem to be establishing themselves here. The late-planted Snowdrops are already in flower, at least some of them. I’m sure they will all be rescued. The lawn Snowdrops look delightful. I will plant a few more this year to build up this display for next year.
Wednesday 22 February 2012
Cloudy, breezy, mild still. I’ve now set up a new bird nesting box. It’s about ten feet up the main trunk of the second largest fir trees in the woodland area. That’s a total of nine nesting boxes in the garden, including an upturned old galvanised watering can lodged in a tree, and an old kettle similarly placed. I’ve now cleared out last years nest from the boxes – three of them. I think they were all Blue Tit or Coal Tit nests, similar in construction, domed, made from fine strands of moss and lined with down. Beautifully made. I saw our Robins taking a great interest in the watering can yesterday; but it is exposed to attack by the Squirrels. I planted out a large batch of Snowdrops that had been left in a plastic box, with some soil, and partially covered with black plastic. They had put on vigorous growth, and I think they will soon recover from the neglect and I expect them to flower. There is a touch of early Spring on these mild days.
Monday 20 February 2012
A quite pleasant morning, but cloudy and a light frost overnight. Bird activity is increasing in the garden. Several visits from Goldfinches at the weekend to feed on the nyler seeds, which are undoubtedly a key attraction to these colourful and exotic-looking small birds. Snowdrops in their prime. The Helxine is now clearly blackened and cut back by the frosts. There has been a general lack of rain this winter. It shows around the woodland edge area, where extraction of water by the trees and bushes has left the ground parched. I’ve watered several Snowdrop clumps in this area to help growth. Good to see that the Lady’s Smock is surviving, at least one patch. Early signs of forced Rhubarb sprouting under the black bin.
Friday 17 February 2012
Bright but cloudy and much milder, almost a touch of early spring in the air. Snow & frost gone for the moment. Buds are prominent on the Lilac, the Daffodils, Tulips and Hyacinths are growing well. Two Goldfinches feeding on the nyler seeds this morning. A pair of male Blackbirds have been quarrelling and chasing all day in the woodland edge area. The Snowdrops are now in full bloom, and putting on a fine display, including those in the lawn which I planted last autumn to increase the lawn display.
Monday 13 February 2012
A dull cloudy day but the thaw has set in. Some snow still lying in the garden. The Helxine has partially blackened in the hard frost, but still a grey shade of green. Subdued bird presence today. Snowdrops are mainly at the globular stage of flowering.
Friday 10 February 2012
The frosty weather continues with another snowfall last night. The garden has become a haven and refuge for birds. I put more bird food of all sorts out this morning and at times the garden looked like Piccadilly Circus. Spotted two Greenfinches, the first for a long time. This is wildlife gardening.
Wednesday 8 February 2012
An extremely hard frost last night, down to around minus 9 Celsius. The snow in the garden this morning was crisp and crackling underfoot. This morning I spotted four Goldfinches together on the nyler seed feeder. They are among the most colourful and exotic-looking British birds. Crows and a Magpie were sparring atop the Chestnut trees. A very busy day for birds in the garden. Wood Pigeons have joined the Collared Doves. Robins are very tame practically taking mealworms from my hand. The Helxine is blackening now, but still several green areas remain in the woodland edge.
Monday 6 February 2012
Cloudy and increasingly milder through today, after heavy snowfall and bitterly cold nights at the weekend. I have tried to increase the bird food out in the garden, and we’ve been rewarded by lots of bird activity, with a couple of special visitors. First Pied Wagtail I’ve spotted in the garden, though they are quite common around here. And a Song Thrust put in a guest appearance. Used to be common, but nowadays rare here. Reynard has been around, plus the squirrels, and a bevy of Woodpigeons. Saw a Magpie in the Big Fir today, after a short absence.
Friday 3 February 2012
A bitterly cold day after an even colder night, but sunny and very crisp, with that freshness in the air, it’s ozone I believe. Noticed that the terracotta thermometer at the top garden isn’t working. I put more bird food out including live mealworms, and there has been lots of bird and Squirrel activity. A Goldfinch again spent a long time feeding on the new nyger seeds. Saw a Fox in the garden yesterday again. The usual red-brown coat, but with plenty of black fur. I spotted a bone on the lawn near the Box tree. The Bluebells are pushing through – earlier than usual I think. And the days are noticeably getting longer now.
Wednesday 1 February 2012
Bright and sunny day but bitterly cold, easily the coldest day this winter so far. Ice in the birdbath. Yesterday I installed a new bird seed feeder, for nyjer seeds, suspender from a shepherd’s crook pole right next to the old Lavender bush. Within an hour a Goldfinch was feeding. Today I spotted a Goldfinch, possibly the same bird, feeding on the garage roof, among the accumulated lichens and moss, but apparently ignoring the nyjer seeds. Plenty of other bird activity on this frosty day – Robins, Blue Tits, Coal Tits, Collared Doves, Blackbirds, Starlings, Chaffinches, Dunnocks, and three Grey Squirrels. But no sign of our Ferdie the Pheasant, not for a few weeks now.
Monday 30 January 2012
Frost overnight then a dull cloudy morning. More bird activity in the garden over the weekend, and I have put more food out. Chaffinches have been around, and a small flock of Goldfinches returned to the Lavender seed heads. Good to see Coal Tits feeding.
Friday 27 January 2012
A beautiful January morning. Sunny, crisp, blue, they don’t come much better than this in the garden. Lots of bird chirruping, though not much evidence yet of visitors to the food. I spotted more Snowdrops coming out in the lawn. Not such a brilliant display as last year, but welcome. Noticed the bronze Peony shoots have appeared, and Daffodils and Tulips pushing through. The early stirring of Spring beginning to appear.
Wednesday 25 January 2012
No obvious sign of lengthening days yet, probably because it’s been so cloudy and dull lately. But will soon be apparent. The garden looks a bit bleak, windblown and uninspiring. I lifted the black bin to look for Rhubarb growth, but nothing. Lots of Starling again today – they are the main players in the garden. Definitely more numbers than this time last year; I can count around fifteen in one gathering, before a sharp noise and they lift off wholesale.
Monday 23 January 2012
The milder weather this winter seems to have upset our Snowdrops. They are gradually coming into bloom, but the display is much less impressive than usual.
Friday 13 January 2012
Lovely blue crisp sunny day. I noticed this morning that the Lemon Balm plants, many self-seeded, around the garden, are still green. As is the Helxine. This is highly unusual for January. The Snowdrops are coming out, a few in the white globule stage, none fully open yet, but won’t be long.
Wednesday 11 January 2012
Bright early, then cloudy, but still mild. I replenished the bird feeders. Apart from a few Blue Tits and Collared Doves, not much bird life seen in the garden today.
Monday 9 January 2012
A lovely sunny early morning, still with the early promise of Spring, but getting cloudier by early afternoon. Ferdie our resident Pheasant is back, after a worrying absence of a few days. Spotted our first Snowdrops, in the lawn, not quite in bloom yet. A neighbour reports the first Crocuses pushing through. The garden still looks windswept.
Friday 6 January 2012
The high winds have gone, but yesterday saw serious gales which pushed a neighbouring tree over through about twenty degrees, took a temporary sheet off our barn roof, scattered plant pots and polythene crates and damaged a fence panel. Could have been worse, but bad enough. But today has been lovely – cold, bright and sunny, crisp; the first hint of Spring in the garden. No sign of our Pheasant and surprisingly little bird feeding activity.
Wednesday 4 January 2012
Turning into another stormy day with high winds. Funny winter weather – not much frost, and the Helxine, both the long drive border and my new stepping stone gaps, are still all green. By now they ought to blackened and dead brown. I noticed the Rhubarb clump is showing the start of new crowns. I covered them with the black plastic bin to start forcing, earlier than usual. Very early forced Rhubarb stems are delicious.
Tuesday 3 January 2012
A stormy day; windy, rain, cold then clearing skies. Yesterday was a lovely blue crisp day. A quick walk round the garden this morning. No sign of Ferdie our resident Pheasant. Plenty of seasonal jobs to be done in the garden – not least pruning and generally tidying up.
Friday 30 December 2011
Rainy and colder. I refilled the terracotta bird feeder this morning. It has become a popular feeding site. I’ve seen Blue Tits and Robins there today. The Starlings have almost monopolised the hanging suet blocks. Our Pheasant Ferdie was around yesterday, scared by a black and white cat on the prowl. He seems well able to look after himself. I never expected to have a resident Pheasant in the garden.
Wednesday 28 December 2011
A very mild Christmas day, but generally cloudy, and colder, breezy today. Looking out the window this morning there was a scattering of white feathers on the lawn beneath the Box tree. But Ferdie had reappeared, and was strutting around the garden, after several days’ absence over Christmas, when I feared the worst. He’s a survivor. The Starlings have been feeding voraciously and noisily all day. They don’t have the typical speckled glossy winter feathers, but on closer inspection I can see the speckles are emerging. The Squirrels are active, digging holes in the lawn, looking for buried treasure.
Friday 23 December 2011
Changeable weather as Christmas approaches, but no snow or frost. Today is dull cloudy with rain threatened. Ferdie is still in the garden. He became agitated this morning as another cat started stalking him, squawking, flying onto the fence, and then down into the next garden. The garden is bleak and uninviting, but we are now just past the winter solstice.
Wednesday 21 December 2011
Much milder but cloudy and gloomy as the shortest day of the year approaches tomorrow. Ferdie the Pheasant is back, allaying fears for his demise. But he was chased around the garden again this morning, by a ginger tom cat. He took refuse on the outhouse roof. He doesn’t mind feeding next to Squirrels and Magpies and Collared Doves. I topped up the wormery. The middle tray seems deserted by worms. I need to check the whole unit. Cut a few sprigs of Holly from the front garden to decorate indoors. Thick clusters of red berries, the most I’ve ever seen on a Holly bush. The variegated leaves are an added touch.
Monday 19 December 2011
A brief light snow shower yesterday morning. Today is dull cold with rain threatened but getting milder. Surprised to find a new mushroom pushing through near the picnic bench. Mushrooms in mid-December? At the weekend we had a spectacular, swift but brief visit by a flock of Goldfinches raiding en masse the Lavender bush. Just like last winter. Lovely birds – red, black, gold and white. Our Pheasant has gone. On Saturday he was quietly feeding in the garden when suddenly he was running around in circles, squawking like a - headless chicken? No obvious predators in sight. By the time I was outside in the garden to investigate the cause of his frantic activity, he had vanished. Never seen since. I have replenished all the bird food in the garden this morning. Good to see the Starlings back, in larger numbers than last year. We get flocks of around fifteen birds, whereas last winter the maximum was about ten.
Friday 16 December 2011
The first snow of the winter arrived in the garden early this morning. A few centimetres, which is starting to thaw by midday as snow turns to drizzle. A cold bleak walk round the garden. Our Pheasant visitor is still here. I wonder if he is taking refuge from a nearby garden, perhaps sensing Christmas is coming. A Blue Tit and Collared Dove are feeding. Yesterday I put an increased supply of bird food out, both scattered on the ground and in hanging feeders.
Wednesday 14 December 2011
Cold and fairly bright, some cloud. Yesterday and again today we have had a new bird visitor to the garden, a Pheasant. First time. It’s a male, and fairly tame, just running away to another part of the garden when I approach. It’s been busy feeding on the bird seed I’ve scattered along the path. A curious activity of this large bird is to scoop out a shallow depression in the soil, and nestle down. Almost as though it’s preparing a basic nesting site. The bird book says that the Pheasant habitat is the woodland edge; which is exactly where it is now – our small scale creation of a garden woodland edge. How the Pheasant got in the garden is a mystery. I wonder how long it will be around. The Starlings have returned to feed, about ten birds. I’ve also spotted several Chaffinches.
Monday 12 December 2011
Sunny and cold again, with stormy forecast. Another very early sign of Spring - new shoots forming at ground level on the Ice Plant. I wonder if that’s where its name came from? Replenished the bird seed and the Fat Snax this morning. Did a bit of light pruning of the Vines at the top garden. I really need to get the winter covers on the picnic bench and the top seat. A young Squirrel has soon found the fresh bird seed.
Friday 9 December 2011
Sunny but cold, after a windy day. Just a hint of warmth in the morning sun. I put more bird seed out, along the path and refilled the terracotta feeder suspended from a lower branch of the Big Fir. Most active day for birds in the garden for a long time. Starlings, Blue Tits, Great Tits, Dunnocks, Chaffinches and the Robins are back. Surprising what a brief cold snap has done. I used my new pruning knife this morning, to take out a couple of small Buddleia shoots. A useful addition to my secateurs. I noticed that the Lilac branches have new buds on the, the first sign of the Spring to come.
Wednesday 7 December 2011
A cold windy day, but bright & sunny, after the first frost of the winter yesterday. The garden looks bleak, but plenty of plants in leaf that would usually be bare by December. Short December days. No Fox sightings. But the tunnel under the top fence corner shows signs of recent scraping and fresh earth displaced.
Monday 5 December 2011
A very cold day, but bright and a watery winter sun. The Blackbirds are now feeding on the orange Firethorn berries in the front garden. The squirrels are up to their old acrobatic tricks, hanging upside down from the wires to reach the Fat Snax at the bird table. The Squirrels are small juveniles, born this year I think.
Friday 2 December 2011
December starts with a glorious bright sunny day. A hint of frost overnight, but not whiteover, possibly because of the dry conditions lately. The terracotta feeder has been disturbed, hanging at an angle. Must be the squirrels, which have also been paying attention to the bird nesting box left out on the top garden seat, nibbling around the entrance hole presumably after what they imagine is food inside. Still not much bird activity at the bird table or the hanging feeders nearby.
Wednesday 30 November 2011
November ends with a glorious bright sunny day, cold but not frosty. I saw a Blue Tit darting to the terracotta feeder yesterday.
Monday 28 November 2011
Still no frosts despite a cold night. This morning the garden appeared bedraggled and windblown after a blustery time at the weekend. A side fence panel has been dislodged. The bird feed I put in the terracotta pot hanging from the Big Fir has clearly been raided, but not by birds I fear. Squirrels most likely.
Friday 25 November 2011
No November frosts yet, so many of the summer plants continue to survive, including the pelargoniums. Some of the Hostas have faded, but a few survive. A bright morning, but the garden has a dismal appearance. A solitary white Shasta daisy flower. Blue Tits are now feeding from the Fat Snax.br
Wednesday 23 November 2011
The dry cloudy weather continues. Mild for late November. I’ve removed the lamb’s wool from the hanging terracotta container in the lower branches of the Big Fir tree. It was put there as a source of nest-building material, and was certainly used earlier this year. Refilled it with mixed bird seed, but no sightings yet of visits. I’m also waiting to see if the Squirrels spot it - I’m sure they will before long. Still lots of small Toadstools in the lawn. The half eaten apple on the top path has vanished. Foxes for sure.
Monday 20 November 2011
Dull cloudy damp but quite mild for November. Yesterday I saw the first Blue Tit for a long time, feeding at the Fat Snax. Perhaps an early sign of oncoming winter and food scarcity for the garden birds. A mushroom has appeared in the lawn near the Big Fir. Surprising - the lawn here is parched due to the tree, not really ideal conditions for fungi. Came across a partly eaten apple this morning on the top garden path. Squirrel or Fox.
Friday 18 November 2011
The Magpies are back. Three of them in a neighbouring Horse Chestnut tree. The Toadstools in the lawn are fading, and no sign of any Mushrooms, though the mild damp weather is ideal. Walking round the garden each day, little disturbances get noticed. Today I saw that an old watering can placed in the Lilac bush as a potential nesting site had become dislodged and had fallen to the ground. A little cast iron ‘welcome’ sign had been pushed out of position. Either Squirrels or Foxes the likely culprits.
Monday 14 November 2011
Lots of small Toadstools have appeared in the lawn close to the Big Fir. A grey cloudy November day. Spotted a white marble on the lawn. I imagine it was moved there by a bird, probably a Magpie, although I haven’t seen much of the Magpies lately.
Wednesday 9 November 2011
I found another Bindweed shoot pushing through in the south border, but a very thin straggly thing. The garden is damp and dull, grey skies. Fairly typical November weather. Bird life in the garden seems non-existent.
Monday 7 November 2011
The Foxes are still making their noises in the evenings. The front Firethorn is still covered densely in orange berries which are attracting the attention of Blackbirds.
Friday 4 November 2011
Welcome rain overnight. The lawns already look greener. Rainfall has been quite low recently and the ground especially around the woodland area has become dry. The downside of the trees is the water they extract from nearby areas. Last night (and the previous night) - late evening – weird animal sounds from the garden. Not cats. Foxes I think. Last night the creature sounded in agony, as it slowly drifted away into other gardens nearby. Might be the start of the mating season. Still very little bird life; a few Collared Doves; the occasional Blackbird feeding on the orange Firethorn berries in the front and a few Dunnocks. The Squirrels are active burying conkers in the lawn.
Wednesday 2 November 2011
Another final lawn cut. The first time I’ve mowed the lawns in November. At least they look fairly tidy now, but too brown and dry. The price of a couple of weeks neglect in September. The grass will green up over the winter no doubt. Still no frosts and quite mild.
Monday 31 October 2011
A dark cloudy morning for Hallowe’en as October ends, but remarkably warm. I noticed that one of the flower bowl bird feeders had been disturbed, so I placed both feeders in the lawn. Sure enough, I spotted a Squirrel after food in both. This is a small evidently young creature, probably born this summer. No frosts yet, and a white Foxglove still in flower in the woodland edge. The Helxine is still green between the stepping stones. I wonder if it will survive the winter and reappear next spring. Few birds in the garden. A Dunnock feeding on the front lawn, and the occasional Blackbird attacking the orange berries on the Firethorn. There are loads of them this year.
Friday 28 October 2011
Another lovely October day. Noticed this morning that the Ena Harkness climbing rose has put on remarkable growth again, almost matching the vigorous shoot last year. Needs tying back. I found another small mushroom near the Box tree.
Wednesday 26 October 2011
A sunny dry start, with an October chill in the air. An old bone on the lawn this morning, evidence of a Fox visit during the night. A Collared Dove was searching the grass for fallen seeds under the bird feeders yesterday. No sign of any Robins or Tits. Garden bird life is very quiet. A white Foxglove still in flower in the woodland edge area. We are still waiting for the first frost of the autumn.
Monday 24 October 2011
No frosts and another pleasant bright October day. I tidied the south border edge this morning. Sedum Spurium is in flower, with mauve star like flowers on scaled stems, like those of Houseleek. This plant has grown into a large matted area, the largest I’ve seen. The south border – Hydrangea, Lavender, Hyssop, Cotton Lavender, Sedum Spectabile, Hypotheses, Rue, Coleus, Geraniums and French Marigolds, has matured into autumn in a graceful way, changing from the new summer plantings into a more settled coherent appearance. The top garden shows signs of neglect and reversion to a jungle tangle of vines and blackberry stems.
Friday 21 October 2011
Another pleasant sunny day, dry, cold, but no frosts yet. A few more Bindweed shoots to remove from the south border this morning. I noticed that the chicken wire I had placed to block a gap under the side fence has disappeared. More likely to be a Cat than a Fox I think. Could be a Hedgehog, except I haven’t seen a Hedgehog around the garden for years. I’ve now blocked the gap again, with an old terracotta planting trough.
Wednesday 19 October 2011
One of those lovely bright dry crisp October mornings in the garden. I sat briefly in the weak sun on the top bench. Within a minute one of our Robins flew to within a couple of feet, perched on the rose arch. Noticed that New Dawn rose now has black spot, which has been absent over the summer. But it has put on useful new growth, which needs tying back. I hope these sappy new braches survive the winter. The first frost is forecast for tonight. It will probably cut down the Pelargoniums and Hostas.
Monday 17 October 2011
Cloudy but still quite mild. Colder weather forecast in a few days. This morning I dug out one piece of Bindweed in the new south border, still defiantly pushing up four months after the major clear-out. More evidence today of both Squirrels and Foxes. The Foxes giveaway is a piece of bone on the path, which wasn’t there yesterday. Lots of digging and disturbance of the borders, which is probably Squirrels. Also some creature is able to excavate under the fence, and push aside a piece of chicken wire netting blocking one of the entrance points.
Friday 14 October 2011
A pleasant October day in the garden. Dry, sunny, mild. Mowed all the lawns today, with the mower set at the highest cut because the grass had grown away to around 6 to 8 inches during the holiday. New Dawn climber rose is putting on a late flush of the lovely pink blooms, the third show this year. Probably get cut down by the first frost soon. But New Dawn has made a remarkable recovery this year after the fencing upheaval in the spring. Another mushroom has appeared. This has been a bumper year for the mushrooms.
Monday 10 October 2011
A very windy morning, but dry. Spent some time digging out the resurgent Bindweed in the south border. The tenacity and durability of this plant is remarkable. The gardens look untidy and neglected. The wormery is still producing good quantities of liquid feed which I’ve diluted and used around the garden today.
Friday 7 October 2011
Sun and showers, again. Another small mushroom under the Big Fir. The Michaelmas Daisies are still in flower but fading. The leaves are covered in the grey mildew I’ve seen in previous years. The lawns have become overgrown. They need cutting, but step by step.
Friday 23 September 2011
A brighter and milder morning. More mushrooms have appeared this week, in a dryish area near the Big Fir. They have quickly faded. Michaelmas Daisies still in flower. I have neglected the soft fruit harvests this year, mainly because we still have frozen stock from last year. There are Redcurrants remaining on the branches. The last of the Blackberries have gone. More evidence of predator visits. A scattering of feathers under the Big Fir is probably the result of an attack on a young Collared Dove by a Magpie or even a Sparrowhawk. On the ground is a large meat bone, the work of our Foxes no doubt. The garden seems well into the autumn season now.
Monday 19 September 2011
Yesterday morning it looked as though there had been some sort of late night party in the garden. Soil disturbed in various places, leaves scattered, a shallow hole under the new fence excavated and bits of the green plastic edging broken. Presumably the Foxes at work.
Friday 16 September 2011
Another pleasant sunny September day. I took a few photos of the garden this afternoon. The south border and the woodland edge, and the long (twenty feet) Helxine border along the drive. It’s helpful to record the passing seasons in the garden; the appearances change so swiftly. No more Bindweed pushing up in the south border. It has taken several months but I think the remaining bits of stem have just about exhausted themselves. There may be the odd one or two still trying to survive.
Wednesday 14 September 2011
A pleasant sunny September morning after the wind and heavy showers. I’ve harvested the rest of the Charlotte potatoes. A decent crop. Also harvested courgettes from the El Greco marrow. They were never going to grow to marrow size. Entirely my fault for not moving the plant from its little plantpot early enough to allow an adequate growing season in the large container. I’ve spread the bags of horse manure and farmyard manure on the south border bed and around the ferns in the woodland area.
Monday 12 September 2011
Windy and much more forecast, but quite mild and a pleasant morning walk in the garden in the sun. I found a half-eaten tomato under the Big Fir, and conker shells, the handiwork of Squirrels no doubt. The top of the garden, with the Russian Vine, Grape Vines and climbing roses has quickly grown out of control this summer. I couldn’t find a single bunch of grapes. Probably due to heavy inexpert pruning last year. This summer has been a disappointment. I can’t recall a single hot summer’s day when we’ve relaxed on the bench at the top fence. The new south border is still looking good, with the Hyssop, Cotton Lavender, Hypotheses and Coleus all fine. But it won’t be long before a cold snap changes all this.
Friday 9 September 2011
Two more mushrooms have appeared, in a new location. Not in the lawn, but from the pine-needle covered soil in the woodland area. They look the same kind, white caps, brown gills, just like edible field mushrooms. By not picking them, and covering in chicken wire to keep the Squirrels away, I hope to encore spores dispersion and future mushrooms. It’s a plan that seems to be working, gradually. The numbers have increased in the last few years. They appear to prefer the acid soil created by pine needle floor debris. The lawns need cutting but the grass is too wet. Brilliant mauve display by the Ice Plant.
Monday 5 September 2011
Sunny and showery weather, coolish and breezy. This morning I found an empty split conker shell under the Big Fir. Clearly Squirrel action, the neighbouring Horse Chestnuts are now busy producing the annual conker crop. Another mushroom in the lawn. The Rhubarb leaves are now elephantine. Huge. I haven’t harvested any more Rhubarb after the early forced stems, so the plant is now building up strength for next spring. The Helxine in the stepping stones is still doing very well. It seems to have established successfully in this woodland edge area.
Friday 2 September 2011
A lovely early September day. Just a hint of autumn ahead, but milder, dry, blue hazy skies and sunny. Plenty of fungi activity in the garden. Two more white cap mushrooms around the Big Fir area. A scattering of toadstools nearby in the lawn, and what I think are Inkcaps close to the old Berberis stump in the woodland area. Toadstools. An interesting word. Yesterday I found a Charlotte potato lying on the soil, in perfect condition, dug out by either a Fox or squirrel. A reminder to harvest these spuds. This morning I spread horse manure at the base of the New Dawn rose, around the Sedum Spurium and Cotton Lavender in the little rocky area I’ve created. New Dawn continues to throw out new branches, high over the fence top. Should lead to a good display of roses next summer. Michaelmas Daisies in full bloom. I found a broken pure white bloodstained eggshell on the ground under the Big Fir this morning. At first I thought it was another mushroom. I suspect the Magpies have been at work on a Collared Dove nest high up.
Wednesday 31 August 2011
A disappointing August; cool, wet, dull. Today I wasn’t even tempted out into the garden. The lawns look fine, but in need of a cut.
Monday 29 August 2011
Return of some bird life in the garden. It has been very quiet for a month or two, apart from a furious fight between four Magpies and a couple of Collared Doves in the Big Fir a few days ago. Not sure who won. This morning I spotted a ruffled-looking Robin perched in the Big Fir. I’m sure it was moulting. There was an unusual light patch below the red breast. The Squirrels have been around recently after a very quiet period.
Friday 26 August 2011
A rainy few days and three mushrooms have appeared in the usual place around the Big Fir. The Michaelmas Daisies are in flower. They are the mauve variety, not the pale purple old-fashioned ones I prefer. The Rosemary cuttings have survived well in the patio pots, they need planting out this autumn. Ginko Craig Hosta has superb tall purple flowers, large for such a small plant. The Sedum Spectabile, Ice Plant, is now coming into flower, the smaller clumps are still green.
Wednesday 24 August 2011
The Cerastium that I had to rescue from the woodland stepping stone area is just about managing to survive in a plant=pot on the patio. I re-potted it this morning, covering the straggly stems with soil to encourage bushier growth. It can be quite a difficult plant to grow, though very attractive with silvery foliage and small white flowers; it prefers quite dry sunny conditions, but not too dry. August continues fairly cool and showery. New Dawn climbing rose continues to put on plenty of new growth with new shoots over the fence top, after the battering it took during fencing work in May.
Monday 22 August 2011
The single Greco Marrow plant was attacked by a slug or snail overnight. This morning I found one of the small courgettes partly eaten into. I was hoping these creatures would be unable to climb into the tall growbag, but evidently not. The garden is just beginning to take on an early autumn or late summer appearance. Everywhere is still green, but the freshness has gone and the days are noticeably shortening now.
Friday 19 August 2011
A lovely sunny August early morning after a gloomy rainy day yesterday. That evocative wet garden scent. I found a small frog in the rain bucket, and another in the border. A delightful family of four or five young Wrens in the woodland trees enjoying the warm sun, with their characteristic 'cheep, cheep' calls. New Dawn climbing rose is in bud again for a second flush of blooms, and is putting on excellent growth, much-needed after the trauma this plant suffered during the fencing operations in late spring. All geraniums are in full bloom, red apart from one pink, and the Salvias and French marigolds are still flowering; both have had an amazingly long season this year. The Helxine in the woodland area is thriving, It’s shady, and I’ve kept the transplanted beds damp – the conditions Helxine prefers.
Wednesday 17 August 2011
For several mornings this week I’ve come across disturbed earth along the south border – small holes excavated, soil shifted and scattered around, in several places. Could be the work of a Fox or a Cat. The dry weather this year in the late spring has affected the more sheltered parts of the garden. The Chives along the path edges have not produced their usual spectacular flowering display, in fact, hardly any flowers or growth at all. The flower heads of the Sedum Spectabile are just starting to turn into colour.
Monday 15 August 2011
I dug up the first of the Charlotte potatoes today. I anticipated a feeble crop, but I was wrong – a good half dozen nicely shaped clean spuds. We’ll eat them for supper tomorrow. The Gink Craig Hosta is in flower, small purple blooms on long stems. I’m surprised to get any blooms at all, let alone from this miniature Hosta variety. Several of my other Hostas along the path in the woodland area have been disfigured with bird droppings splattered over the leaves. I went out at night with a torch, shining it up into the high branches. There were about five roosting wood pigeons or collared doves, directly over the Hostas.
Friday 12 August 2011
The single marrow plant in a growbag, Greco, is now producing a regular supply of courgettes. I will leave one or two to develop into full-grown marrows. The Hydrangea has flowered well but put on little new growth yet. The small east border is still colourful as the Geraniums / Pelargoniums flower and the Salvias and French Marigolds continue their long season, encouraged by regular deadheading. The showery weather seems to be drying up and it’s now average August conditions, rather cloudy.
Wednesday 10 August 2011
The five Hyssop cuttings I took about two months ago have taken well, and are now in flower. This is an excellent low edging herb, attractive to bees, ladybirds and butterflies. Four Cotton lavender cutting have been slower to grow, but they are growing and their silvery lace-like foliage is a nice addition to the border. Pleased to see this morning that my solitary remaining Angelica, banished to a shady spot in the top garden, is growing reasonably well. I started with a single Angelica plant. They grow to gigantic proportions, then self-seed prolifically, and the seedlings are very vigorous. So I had to clear the lot out, saving the solitary survivor. But it’s a good herb to have in the garden. Lovage this year is stunted and poor. Not clear why. The Squirrels are busy digging holes in the lawn, and elsewhere, burying something I think.
Monday 8 August 2011
Return to cooler unsettled weather, but a sunny pleasant morning today in the garden. I mowed the lawns at the weekend. They look in good shape, but I want to apply a feed plus weed soon. I don’t use weedkillers on the lawns generally, but the front lawn especially is harbouring too many weeds. The broken fern stem I stuck in the ground as a cutting is surviving. I didn’t consider fern cuttings as viable, but perhaps I’ll be proven wrong. The Charlotte potato haulms are turning yellow and starting to wither. Need to harvest these spuds soon.
Friday 5 August 2011
A warm dry quite sunny day after yesterday’s rain which has refreshed the garden. Very little bird activity in the garden these days, after the hectic spring and early summer days. I’ve stopped putting bird food out, but apart from that things have become very quiet. Perhaps a moulting season. The top garden has become untidy and needs some attention. The Russian Vine on the top fence is in full flower, creamy white, in all its glory at the moment. It needs cutting back in some places before it’s completely out of control.
Wednesday 3 August 2011
Hot close day. A thunderstorm must be on the way. During last night a creature, almost certainly a Fox, had uprooted one of the ferns in the woodland edge stepping stone area. Probably scenting the bonemeal fertiliser. I’ve replanted and watered. Saw a Bat again this evening. Good to know they are still around and seem to be surviving. More Pears harvested today, it’s the best crop this small tree has produced.
Monday 1 August 2011
August starts hot, dry, sunny, with just a hint of mugginess. Yesterday late evening I saw a Bat flitting over the garden, the first for a while. The still air was heavy with Honeysuckle scent, sweet and powerful. The re-seeded lawn patches loo fine and should be able to stand the first mowing this week, without risk of pulling up the young grass. The Gooseberry harvest this is almost over. Seems much earlier than usual, and I haven’t picked any for freezing, just enjoyed them fresh from the bushes. Early this morning I was looking out of the window over the garden, saw a Robin alight on the fence about ten yards away. I’m sure it spotted me. The bird immediately flew towards the window, perched on plant pots on the patio, came within a couple of feet of the window and looked at me, waiting for food I’m sure, then flew off.
Friday 29 July 2011
Rather close and cloudy. The new mushroom has grown and has avoided being eaten by the Squirrels. So today I’ve covered it with chicken wire, in the hope that if it matures and releases spores we may get more mushrooms. As July draws to a close, all the soft fruit has ripened. I found a fallen pear this morning which looks eatable so it’s gone into the fruit bowl. Sedum Spectabile, the Ice Plant, has done well in the south border with plenty of flower heads forming. There should be a fine display when they bloom.
Wednesday 27 July 2011
Dull, cloudy, showers threatened. Another mushroom has appeared overnight under the Big Fir, close to the first. I’m tempted to cook & taste one, but just a bit wary. I’m sure they are an edible type. New Dawn rose still has a few pale pink blooms. I’ve dead-headed the first flush, which seems to have stirred this lovely climbing rose into new growth. Several new shoots have appeared, both on a main stem and at the top. The rescued Sedum Spurium goes from strength to strength. It has formed a vigorous thick clump. Fewer Bindweed shoots to remove today. I think I’m gradually exhausting this pernicious weed.
Monday 25 July 2011
Dry, bright and warmer. The lone mushroom under the Big Fir tree has gone. No sign left at all, so it hasn’t just withered. I suspect the Squirrels. Several small green apples half eaten on the ground. It looked like the Squirrels had been taking them from the Apple tree. But there seems to be a heavy crop still on the tree, so I think the Squirrels have been eating the fallens, the usual St Swithun’s day apples drop. I picked and ate a few Blackberries, Gooseberries, Red Currants and Strawberries. The Coleus in the south border has grown large. It looks spectacular with its bright green and red foliage.
Friday 22 July 2011
Mowed the lawns during a spell of dry weather today, which may not last. Transplanted another three slabs of Helxine to the stepping stones, giving a total of thirteen patches of Helxine between the stones. So far, the Helxine appears to be thriving in the shady conditions here, as I would expect. Picked a couple of ‘Cambridge’ Strawberries; delicious. I noticed this afternoon that the Southernwood bush in the front border looks in distress – blackened leaves towards the centre, and the outer leaves lacking the familiar scent. Possibly a reaction to the dry conditions earlier. It had looked so healthy. I’ve already taken a couple of cuttings, but I don’t want to lose this lovely plant.
Wednesday 20 July 2011
Still cool and showery. I’ve moved the Cerastium from the stepping stones to a patio pot in a second rescue attempt. Honeysuckle is out and fills the evening air with that wonderful scent. A white mushroom has appeared under the Big Fir. Must be the damp weather. This evening I found a broken white eggshell on the path in the woodland area, with the yoke splattered. It’s a Wood Pigeon’s I’m sure. Possibly taken and then dropped by a Squirrel. Remnants of Bindweed still pushing up in the south border, which I remove each day. Vital not to let it get re-established.
Monday 18 July 2011
A miserable wet dull Monday morning. The Parsley is growing well. I divided the clump and planted them in different areas of the garden. Both have done well, possibly due in part to the wet conditions. The Coriander had bolted and failed, possibly for the same reason the Parsley has succeeded. I’m concerned about the Cerastium I moved from a pot, where it was thriving, to the stepping stones. It looks in trouble. I will move it back to a patio pot. The Chives along the borders have had a poor year. The dry conditions in early summer didn’t help. There has been no abundant flowering which I normally expect and which makes Chives such a useful edging plant.
Friday 15 July 2011
Dead-headed the Hydrangea. It’s a small but prolific-flowering plant. Mowed the lawns ahead of a rainy weekend, after delaying the mowing because of the reseeded patches. They are all growing quite well. It will be interesting to see how well the Helxine takes to the woodland area. My concern is it may be a bit too shady. The Coleus has put on a growth spurt and looks good in the south border.
Wednesday 13 July 2011
The Buddleia is in flower, with wafts of that heavy sweet scent along the path, despite having been cut back severely last autumn (perhaps because of). The lawns need cutting urgently to prevent the grass growing away. It will be a bit delicate, avoiding the newly seeded patches. The Marshmallow in the front border is lovely and magnificent – the soft downy leaves and those pale pink and white flowers.
Monday 11 July 2011
A pleasant early morning walk around the garden, with scents of the wet garden after a heavy downpour late yesterday evening. The Hydrangea is still in flower, heavily, so that the branches are almost horizontal. Blackberries ripening and Woodbine coming into flower. The Cardinal Rouge Clematis is in flower. Bindweed still pushing up in the new south border, and removed every day to prevent it getting established. The Helxine (‘Mind Your Own Business’) transplanted between the stepping stones in the woodland edge area seems to be doing well. I may move more.
Friday 8 July 2011
Several of the newly-seeded grass patches are now showing new grass growth – a sort of green haze is the first sign. The showery cool weather is ideal. The Gooseberries are now ripe, in danger of getting over-ripe, so need harvesting soon. Two of the transplanted and divided Red Hot Pokers are in flower, despite being in the shady woodland area, though the flower spikes are lacking vigour.
Wednesday 6 July 2011
Showery and cooler. The first of the Shasta daisies is in bloom. No sign yet of any grass seedlings emerging in the newly sown bare patches in the lawn, but it’s only five days. Disappointing that the couple of Borage plants in pots have developed the brown patches on their leaves – the same problem that has attacked Borage for a couple of years. Presumably some fungus. It never used to happen, and is a pity since the pendant blue bell flowers are so redolent of summer days in the garden. Several white Foxgloves are showing a second flowering flush.
Monday 4 July 2011
Pleasant summer’s day, warm, sunny, dry. I’ve had to spray the Marrow ‘El Greco’ to stop Blackfly. Transplanted slabs of ‘Mind Your Own Business’ from the drive to the stepping stones in the woodland area. If it takes it will look good. The Gooseberries are ripe & sweet and need harvesting soon, likewise Redcurrants, though they are fine to stay on the bushes for much longer without over-ripening – they just get sweeter. I’ve removed a few more Bindweed fragments from the new south border. Unless they are taken out ruthlessly in no time the re-infestation will be unbeatable. Under the Big Fir in the woodland area I let the Bindweed grow, to produce the lovely large white bell flowers. Found a delicious ‘Cambridge’ Strawberry this morning under the leaves.
Wednesday 29 June 2011
Much cooler after the brief heat wave. The Pear tree crop looks good, more than last year, about a dozen fruits. The Charlotte potatoes should be ready for harvesting, but I will leave them a few more days, given the earlier very dry conditions. The Grape Vines are getting rampant, they need tying back or pruning. The Marrow ‘El Greco’ is struggling on after the late transplant into the patio bag; but it is growing, and hopefully will take off soon. June draws to a close – a month of mainly sun and showers.
Monday 27 June 2011
Hottest day of the year – up to 36 degrees C on my garden thermometer. Thunderstorms forecast but nothing yet. This morning I made what is probably the last new planting this summer on the new south border. Four tiny cuttings I took about one month ago of Cotton Lavender. It has a silvery foliage. Cut the lawns today. They look in excellent condition. Lush, green, thick. Raising the cut height to 3.2 cm during the dry weather has been beneficial. The Gooseberries are ripe, sweet and eatable, as are the redcurrants. Both excellent crops as usual.
Monday 20 June 2011
Tomorrow is the longest day, but the April-like weather continues with sun & showers. The bird life in the garden seems to have become fairly quiet. I think the first broods have fledged. No further evidence of Fox activity. Yesterday I saw a Cat chasing after a Squirrel on the lawn, something I haven’t seen before, they usually ignore them. The Lovage this year is really stunted, about two feet high compared to the usual six feet.
Friday 17 June 2011
Liquid feed on the lawns ahead of rain in the afternoon proved timely. I also did further work on the new south border. I’ve replanted the Sedum Spurium which I rescued just in time from the front rockery – it had almost expired in the dry spring conditions. It’s a plant that clearly likes water, and put on rapid growth in boggy soil. It’s now in a rocky area neat the stem of New Dawn rose. I decided to plant the Marrow ‘El Greco’ in a home made growbag on the patio, using my own garden compost. I left it too long in the small original pot, but I think it will soon pick up. I fear the Blackbird nesting in the front garden Firethorn has deserted. Yesterday I filled in the fox hole in the woodland area. The exact same spot had been re-excavated overnight, so I’ve filled it in again.
Wednesday 15 June 2011
Mowed the lawns in anticipation of rain later. They look green and lush despite the dry weather this year. I spotted a new hole dug in the woodland area, about a foot deep. Must be the Fox. The Gooseberries are eatable now, and the Redcurrants, though both will be sweeter after further ripening. I weeded the new south border, Mainly Borage seedlings I don’t need, plus a few bits of Bindweed missed in the border redesign, There’s always a bit of Bindweed left behind, no matter how careful. The Blackbird is still sitting on the nest in the front garden Firethorn, next to the window. Our Robins have been absent for a few days, and the Blue Tits and Great Tits.
Monday 13 June 2011
Early morning walk around the wet garden. Wet as in grey, cold, miserable weather thought promises of sun later. A damp smell, not the freshness after a sudden summer shower. The wind and rain of the weekend have gone. The New Dawn climbing rose has probably benefited from the battering, allowing the branches to settle down after the mauling they received during the refencing. The Lovage is a shadow of its usual self this year. Only a couple of feet tall again the normal six feet, looking a bit brown and lifeless, though still that celery scent wafting around. The Redcurrants are mostly red and look nearly ripe for picking. Surely months ahead of schedule.
Friday 10 June 2011
I now understand why one of my new Hostas is called ‘Snowcap’. It’s now in bloom – pure white flowers, white as driven snow perhaps. The Clematis ‘Cardinal Rouge’ is also in flower. It has become tangled with the Russian Vine, which must be sorted out before the Clematis is overwhelmed. I’ve planted two remaining Hyssop cuttings, from pots, alongside three others which I planted nearly two weeks ago. They are tiny, but Hyssop seems to grow readily from softwood cuttings, so this may produce a pleasant cluster of this plant so attractive to Bees. June is still on the cold side, and showery.
Wednesday 8 June 2011
A sunshine & showers spell, rather cold in the breeze. Some creature is persistently beheading the French marigolds. I suspect the Squirrels. There are several young Squirrels around – new kids on the block. The new ferns in the woodland area are growing well. The transplanted Hart’s Tongue fern has also produced fresh green leaves; for a long while in different locations in the garden it has seemed almost dormant with very slow growth. For a similar reason yesterday I transplanted the Big Daddy Hosta to what I consider may be a more suitable place. Its growth has been retarded by something. Contrary to its name, it is the feeblest and least vigorous of the eight Hostas. Young Robins and Starlings are everywhere in the garden. Witness I suppose to my bird feeding regime over the winter and spring.
Monday 6 June 2011
Prolonged rain overnight. A walk round the wet garden this morning, quite novel. I noticed that in the wild garden under the Big Fir the Bindweed is in flower. I instinctively regard it as a pest to eradicate, but left to grow it produces those lovely white pinkish bell shaped flowers. The Marrow seems to be doing fine after the slug attack. Despite the rain, small patches of the newly created east border, with French Marigolds, Geraniums and Salvias had remained quite dry, so I used the water butt water to irrigate this area.
Friday 3 June 2011
Warm but windy, and the Swifts are here to stay for the summer, swooping high in the sky this evening. I found a Blackbird’s nest in the Firethorn bush a couple of feet from the front window. As I pulled out Bindweed from the bush, I inadvertently disturbed the Blackbird who flew off the nest. She returned later. About six feet away is another nest, a Wood Pigeon I believe, built precariously behind nest door’s TV dish. I bought a single marrow plant last weekend. I usually sow seeds, but it’s too late. This morning I spotted that the slugs or snails had chewed through one of the Marrow leaves. Luckily the stem was spared. Our New Dawn roses are settling down on the new fence. The plant is not at its prime. It’s a bit thin on leaf, but a fair number of the lovely pale pink blooms are coming out.
Wednesday 1 June 2011
I spotted the first Swifts this year this evening, wheeling high in the sky. They return here every year. Quite a balmy evening, getting warmer, after a slightly chilly couple of days. The Gooseberries are almost ready. They are just about eatable now; I tested a couple. It’s a very heavy crop again. Several of the smaller bushes have again been stripped of leaves, by caterpillars of the orange / brown butterfly I believe, although I can’t find them on the remaining leaves. But the fruits are still there, on the bare branches. Everything seems early, I’m sure. Even the Redcurrants are starting to turn pink and red. I watered the Charlotte potatoes with the hose yesterday.
Monday 30 May 2011 Late Spring Bank Holiday
A prolonged shower this afternoon, a welcome freshner for the gardens. I’ve more or less completed the south border fencing replacement, and the re-design and planting of the south border. It looks different, much more integrated. I eventually decided on a vine eyes & wires solution to supporting New Dawn climbing rose. It is effective and flexible. All the weight is taken by the upright fence posts. There are about ten or so pink rose in bloom, with lots more buds. Overall, the plant has taken a knock in recent years, and is a bit thin on foliage, but what there is looks healthy. I’m hoping it will reinvigorate this year. The Starling still feeding their young, as are the Great Tits this evening. It’s been a very active spring for birdlife in the garden.
Friday 27 May 2011
Cooler with a light shower. Yesterday was on-off showers all day so I was unable to work on the new fence. I started the redesigned planting. My approach is to introduce a tidier appearance, with more bare earth between plants, and to simplify the plant varieties, with repetitions along the border, for example my Rue with its lovely fresh green-blue foliage. I planted the Hydrangea in the border from the pot where it’s been living from a tiny cutting two years ago. The main problem is how to support the New Dawn rose. I need a better system than the bits of string & wire attached to the fence, which has contributed to the old fence demise, and the occasional support collapse. Some sort of metal trellis would be ideal, fixed to the posts. I watched the Starlings feeding their young on the lawn again today. The young are almost the size of adults, but they squawk with gaping beaks lazily demanding to have the suet pellets placed into their mouths, when they could easily pick them up for themselves. The Compassion and Ena Harkness roses are in full bloom on the arch. The blooms are high up, which is fine for the large weighty Harkness flowers which droop down anyway. The Gooseberries are growing fast. They seem ahead of dates this year.
Wednesday 25 May 2011
Still dry, sunny periods. Quite pleasant May weather. I’ve been busy replacing fencing panels along the south border. I found time also to tackle the Soapwort invasion in the front garden. When I introduced this traditional herb I didn’t realise its invasive habits. It has colonised a whole border section. I am having to be ruthless in removing it. I shall in future keep a clump of Soapwort carefully corralled – a bit like my Snowdrops, but for a different reason. The Borage seedlings I rescued from the south border are growing well in pots.
Monday 23 May 2011
Windy, sunny and dry. I’ve spotted the Robins feeding their fledglings, and yesterday we had five young Starlings feeding on the lawn. They make a pitiful squeaking noise when they are demanding food. As the adult Starling approaches with a collection of mealworms from the feeder, the young one opens his mouth wide – like chicks in the nest. The food is duly popped into the gaping receptacle. A black & white cat has been eying these young birds. I’m hoping that all the food I’m providing will help to increase our bird population this year. Yesterday I lifted two clumps of Snowdrops from the south border. My technique of corralling the clumps with green plastic edging helps identify the bulbs. I shall replant them soon, to fit in with a redesigned south border. I think the main emphasis will be on an herbaceous border, with traditional foliage herbs.
Friday 20 May 2011
Continuing dry and warm in the sun. I untied the climbing rose New Dawn from the south-facing fence section that I am replacing. Lots of dead wood to remove. The first rose is in flower – a lovely pale pink. I am redesigning the entire garden border along this fence, involving moving several plants temporarily either into pots or roughly planted in the top garden while I decide what to do with them. Other roses are also now in first bloom: Ena Harkness, Compassion, Queen Elizabeth. The Squirrels seem really desperate for food. While my back was turned, one Squirrel chewed through the plastic lid of an old yogurt pot containing live mealworms, which I had left outside near the garage, and dragged the pot half way down the garden. Fortunately I was able to gather up the spilt mealworms. I suppose they are feeding their young. I saw a young Squirrel with one third of its tail literally hanging off earlier this week. A few days later the tail piece was missing altogether, but Squirrel seemed lively and unconcerned and not in any distress at all.
Wednesday 18 May 2011
A light shower in the afternoon otherwise continuing dry. The soil in several areas is really bone dry – when I put the spade in, dust flies up. This morning I sat on the top garden bench carefully observing the Robin feeding from the bowl on the stalk, which I’d just replenished with live mealworms. She was grabbing a beakful, flying off a short distance where a recently-fledged Robin was waiting with gaping beak. I think there are several young Robins being fed. They keep well under cover in bushes, tweeting plaintively to alert the parent it’s time for food. Without a red breast, their speckled buff chest gives them the appearance of a diminutive Thrush. The yellow Foxglove has now turned into the advertised white; the red ones are almost in flower. Foxgloves suit the woodland area. I must try to establish a perennial colony here. Yesterday I saw the great Spotted Woodpecker feeding briefly at the suet cake. And a tiny pale yellow frog on the lawn this evening.
Monday 16 May 2011
Another cool dry day with sunny periods. The birds are still ravenous. I’ve spotted that several of the Gooseberry bushes are being systematically stripped of their leaves – by caterpillars I’m sure. It happened last year. I’ve sprayed the bushes, which may have halted the damage, but it’s still severe. Fortunately the main bush seems unaffected.
Friday 13 May 2011
Cool, dry, mainly sunny. A mushroom has appeared, directly under the garden bench table. A drier place hard to imagine. Surprising. It’s white cap, just like the others that have appeared in this area. I’ve started work replacing the four sections of fencing along the south border. I will do it methodically, trying to eradicate the Bindweed, improving the soil with compost, and redesigning the whole border. I continue to feed the birds, Starlings, Robins, Great Tits, Blue Tits. They all seem to be ravenous – no doubt feeding their young. Late this afternoon I spotted four or five Robins in the woodland area. One was feeding another. I suspect they are fledglings. If so, excellent news for our Robin population.
Wednesday 11 May 2011
Cooler but still largely sunny and dry, with occasional light showers. Back to what April was supposed to be like. Today I bought more plants for the new border around the Box tree: French Marigolds and Geraniums. Both bedding plants. I don’t subscribe to the ‘bedding plant’ concept, but I want a bit of warm colour – reds and oranges – at the gloomy base of the Box. Not sure if there’s enough sun there. I also bought another fern – Erythemosa – for the new woodland edge area. Already have one, which has impressed me with the reddish fronds and vigorous growth. I’m tending to make ferns a feature in this area, they are doing well, it seems to be the right environment. Rather like the Hostas thrive along the path through the woodland area. The birds are ravenous for the suet pellets I put out. Feeding nestling I’m sure.
Monday 9 May 2011
Rain at the weekend, but continuing generally sunny, but breezy. The red Peonies have suddenly burst into bloom. They make a lovely display. The first Foxglove is out – it’s pale yellow, rather than the white as named. One of the compost bins has keeled over. Not sure how it has happened. The top garden is looking especially lovely. I need to earth up the Charlotte potatoes.
Friday 6 May 2011
One of the new Foxgloves in the new woodland garden is close to blooming. It looks a shade of yellow. Yesterday morning early I saw our Fox gain. This time he seemed to be taking his time, walking slowly around the Box tree. A warm day, becoming close and maybe with a thunderstorm on the way. Jack-by-the-Hedge in flower in several spots around the garden. It has a pleasant garlic scent when rubbed.
Wednesday 4 May 2011
A surprise visitor to the garden this morning, just a fleeting but positive glimpse. A House Sparrow. Time was when I would never have believed such a commonplace everyday bird in the garden would one day become a rarity. I had almost forgotten what a Sparrow looks like, but as soon as I saw it I recognised those features. Last night was threatening a ground frost, so I covered the emerging potato stems with black boxes, and remembered to remove them this morning. This evening found two white bird’s eggshells under the Big Fir. Wood Pigeon or Collared Dove I’m sure.
Monday 2 May 2011
Yesterday early evening I witnessed an act of sheer savagery on the lawn, the place were so many birds come to feed. A Sparrow Hawk was astride a small bird, talons gripping the helpless creature like a vice, literally tearing pieces of flesh off the victim with merciless repetitive stabs of its beak. What can you do? I just watched in disgust. Then decided to go out and scare the Sparrow Hawk. Before I could get anywhere near it instantly took off, victim still in talons, and flew away. Nature red in tooth and claw, out there on our lawn.
Friday 29 April 2011
An odd day, dull cloudy morning, then a few rolls of thunder and the late afternoon was lovely, quite still, a shade muggy and sunny. A pleasure to do a bit of light work around the garden, and escape all the wedding hyperbole. This April, dry and warm, has been a wonderful month for getting on with gardening generally. Yesterday very early I spotted our Fox trotting swiftly around in search of breakfast. Looking thin and mean, with darker coat than usual, but quite a large specimen. The garden has erupted into growth and colour, despite the recent coldish spell. The Aquilegias are out, with all their varieties of colour, deep purple, crimsons, red, pink, through to pure white. They are largely self-set, but I enjoy these plants so much I now transplant them to choice locations. At one time they were practically weeds. All the new stock of recent weeks is doing well, including this week’s Salvias. The Strawberries are growing strongly. I need to find a good way of protecting them. Our Blackbirds have become so tame, waiting to be fed. I even had one perched on the bowl feeder, but they love suet pellets sprinkled on the lawn. So do the Squirrels.
Wednesday 27 April 2011
A cold north-westerly wind, but dry and sunny. I prepared the soil in my new border by the edge of the Box tree, and positioned a plastic edging strip to at least thwart the intrusion of bindweed which is still prevalent in some areas of the garden after many years trying to eradicate it. I planted a row of twelve Chives plants along the edging, then twelve Salvias I bought today from the garden centre. Not quite the plants I wanted, eventually I would prefer herbs or perennials, but at least they should provide bright colour for one season. It will be interesting to see how this border matures - it only gets full sun during the first half of the day. I have got to start soon on fence repairs. I shall need four new panels of larchlap. The Charlotte potatoes have just pushed through, and my Jerusalem Artichokes are doing well, about three inches high mostly. They grow well here, in fact it would be hard to eliminate them.
Monday 25 April 2011 Easter Monday
Dry and sunny still but fresher. Yesterday I spotted a tiny frog in the grass on the front lawn. Spent time this afternoon trimming back the large Box tree, and creating a small ‘east’ border. Not sure what to plant there. All the new plantings are doing fine still. Sitting quietly on the top bench this morning, a Squirrel crossed the garden unaware of my presence. He was carrying what looked like a mouse in his mouth. The first time I’ve ever seen a Squirrel with prey. If they take mice, they will take bird nestlings for sure. Perhaps it was a nestling.
Friday 22 April 2011 Good Friday
A glorious warm sunny day. This afternoon I sat quietly on the top garden bench, watching a male Blackbird perched high in the Prunus tree. At first I thought it looked a bit odd – like a young Blackbird or even a young Pigeon from a certain angle. It was preening, and apparently yawning. The suddenly he flew down to the Vine, on to the bird bath, taking several sips of water, before flying to the red cup feeder and enjoying the suet insect pellets. A rare sight – Blackbirds are strictly ground feeders. I bought more plants yesterday – another Hosta ‘Snowcap’, a fern, six ‘Cambridge Favourite Strawberries and Coriander. All now planted, and I shall follow their progress eagerly. I completed the Wormery overhaul, returning the worms from the bottom tray to the top tray, after separating out a useful tub of compost. A lovely evening in the garden, with lanterns and Chimenea. Magical.
Wednesday 20 April 2011
Continuing dry, sunny and warm for April. I took advantage of the weather to service the wormery - the first time since last Autumn I think. It has been providing liquid feed regularly, so basically seemed to be working well. I was surprised how many worms there were, all three trays were crammed full of worms, and the sump contained lots of fine compost and many worms. Recovering the worms from the sump was a tedious and lengthy business, but these worms are quite expensive. There must have been 500 to 1,000 worms in the sump, by far the most ever. I emptied the bottom tray, compost plus worms, onto old zinc dustbin lids, washed the tray and set up the wormery again with a fresh fibre matting moisture-retainer on the now-empty top tray. Yesterday I never saw our busy Wren again, and it looked as though the nest building in the box had been abandoned. Not so. This afternoon he was busy again, so it looks serious. One of the three Holly tree-lets in the woodland area looks in distress; the leaves are twisted and grey. I fear the worst. The other two Hollies are fine. I watered the lawns last night because of this continuing dry spell.
Monday 18 April 2011
I spotted a bird going in and out of one of the nest boxes this morning – the old one fixed to the post in the woodland area. Every thirty seconds or so, non-stop. It was a Wren. Will this be the eventual nest? My book says male Wrens build about half a dozen nests before the female chooses one. A small blue butterfly around the Box bush in the sun. Common Blue? Still no rain, and a bit coolish today. I’ve moved a large Iris clump from the woodland area where it was a bit out of place to the top garden, and an adjacent fern to the new woodland edge to give it more space. This leaves a gap which I will probably fill with another Hosta. Hostas seem to do well there. The first Lady’s Smock in bloom – Cuckoo Flower – but I like the former name. And the first Bluebell is out, one of those I transplanted last year under the Big Fir.
Friday 15 April 2011
No appreciable rain this week and the lawns are dry. Today I’ve had the hose and sprinkler out to give them a dowsing. The newly transformed woodland edge garden looks fine still, and most of the new plants show signs of growth. My concern is lanky growth. Obvious evidence today of a Blackbird on nest-building forays, searching for and gathering suitable material. He seemed glad I was watering the lawn, it made his job easier and I think he was enjoying the shower, and using mud for nesting purposes. The Squirrels are really annoying, they are into every place I feed the birds, the high bird table, the new cups on stems, the hanging feeders – everything. Lots of small fluffy white feathers on the ground around the Big Fir. Either signs of a Fox meal, or from Wood Pigeon chicks in a nest high in the tree. All the Hostas are now visible, the final appearance was ‘Patriot’, which I spotted this afternoon.
Monday 11 April 2011
I’ve found another bird’s egg shell on the soil in the top garden, broken open. It looks a bit like a Blackbird’s, but on the small side and not so densely covered in the brown mottles. A Great Tit? A deep hole dug alongside one of my new plantings in the extended woodland area. Clearly a Fox after the bonemeal, or rather attracted by the smell. They must have very sensitive noses. The new woodland garden looks fine so far, but it’s early days. Will be at least two or three weeks before a pattern emerges. I started work on the south border this afternoon, an area of the garden that I have neglected, partly because the fence is down. I’m inclined to try a complete redesign. A sharp short April shower late afternoon, which I followed opportunistically by the second lawn liquid feed this year.
Friday 8 April 2011
A glorious warm sunny day. The new project in the ‘woodland edge’ area is finished. I bought more random stepping stones yesterday, completing the second branch of the stepping stones paths, and a few more plants, including Curled Parsley which is a really useful culinary herb to have available fresh from the garden. It looks good, but the really fascinating thing will be to see how my hunches about the sites for the various plants will pan out in terms of successful growth and development. It’s a tricky environment, and I could be faced with failures. I found an empty white egg shell on the lawn this morning, with one side missing. Looks like a Pigeon egg, and I suspect foul play, by either Squirrel or Magpie. The Tulips are in full bloom in front and rear gardens, reds and yellows, brandy-glass and fluted shapes. Hyacinths looking lovely, and the scent of perennial Sweet Williams on the breeze around the top garden bench. I’ve frozen and stewed the harvested forced Rhubarb. It’s sweet and tender, delicious.
Wednesday 6 April 2011
A warm dry day which has helped progress with my woodland edge area project. I’ve now roughly positioned the stepping stones, and bought a collection of shade-loving plants – Foxgloves, Hosta, Ferns, which are still in their pots but placed at suitable locations. There’s still a chance to change the layout, but it is looking good and a big improvement to what had become a sort of ‘wasteland’ area, not a bad thing in a wildlife garden, but capable of improvement I think. I’ll see. The lawns are looking in much better shape, and greening up nicely. Harvested lots of forced Rhubarb stems today, more than I anticipated and excellent quality. Lily of the Valley will soon be in flower, and my Lady’s Smock and Peonies are growing vigorously.
Monday 4 April 2011
A second lawn cut yesterday, very timely, an April shower started immediately I finished mowing. I’ve now finished the first phase of the woodland area change. The entire area is now dug over and roughly levelled. Some sections were really hard work – I hadn’t appreciated how invasive the roots of the surrounding trees have been. It was a matter of cutting through the thick roots. I found one of the nesting boxes in the Russian Vine on the ground yesterday. Also, some creature had attempted to widen the entrance hole by eating away around the rim. Probably a Squirrel. But why? No eggs or nest inside.
Friday 1 April 2011
Dry, windy, bright. I have started a project to improve the woodland area, or rather the garden between the woodland area and the top garden. This used to be a lawn, but due to the shade and overhanging branches it has become bare earth, except for a tiny patch of grass. I’ve decide to dig over the main section, and lay stepping stones from the central path in two directions, to each of the side paths. This will give areas of garden which can be planted with suitable plants and shrubs. It will require some good choices of plants to make it work, as a sort of woodland border. I’ve put a section of Vaseline on the metal post supporting the bird-table, hoping to deter the Squirrels, but they seem to be undeterred. Two Robins watched me intently as I dug over a section of the new project area. One of them found a tasty morsel, and fed it to the other Robin nearby.
Wednesday 30 March 2011
A light shower during the night has freshened up the garden and lawns. There’s a lot of squabbling between birds lately, no doubt due to territorial disputes, pairing arguments or potential threats to eggs. I saw two male Blackbirds having a furious flapping fight yesterday, around the large Gooseberry bush. This morning a male Blackbird dive-bombed a Magpie on the lawn. I spotted an immature Goldfinch, without the red face markings, feeding on the Lavender seed heads yesterday. Usually I would have removed the dead flower stems by now, but I’m inclined to leave them. The top garden is looking quite tidy and under control – I need to tackle the north border soon, it’s a mess, and sections of fencing must be replaced.
Monday 28 March 2011
Still dry and bright, though a bit cooler. This dry open spell has enabled me to get several areas of the garden tidied up after the harsh winter. I’ve planted the Charlotte seed potatoes, remade the small ‘Florence’ Strawberry bed and the Horseradish patch. Light pruning of all five Gooseberry bushes. The north corner of the top garden has been tidied and a contained Nettle bed planted. I discovered an unusual unidentified plantlet growing by one of the compost bins, in the shade, with dark green leaves. It’s a self-set, and it will be interesting to see what becomes of it. Footprint evidence the Foxes are about at night, but unseen lately. Bluebells under the Big Fir and in the garden are growing well but not yet in flower. The Honeysuckle on the pillar is growing vigorously. It’s a joy to sit quietly on the top bench in the spring sun.
Friday 25 March 2011
Another warm sunny dry day – possibly the last if the forecasts are correct. Red Tulips coming into bloom in the Front Garden. Hyacinths lovely. The rescued Muscari out, as are the Scillas through the gravel front border. I spotted two Goldfinches this morning, one watching the other feed on the Lavender dried seeds from last year, which they clearly like very much. I tidied up a little corner of the top garden, replanting the mint bed, the Michaelmas Daisy clump, and the Shasta daisies. The top garden looks much more open and organised. A nice time sitting on the top bench enjoying this lovely spring weather.
Wednesday 23 March 2011
A warm sunny glorious spring day. I have vaselined the thin stems of the bird cup feeders. So far I haven’t seen a Squirrel try to climb. Bought more terra cotta edging bricks for the top garden, picking up from last year. I’ve created a small enclosure partly surrounding the Vines and the Tansy. The contrast between the lovely fresh green of the new Tansy shoots and the terra cotta is delightful. The top garden bench is now uncovered after the long winter. It was a pleasure to sit in the sun today, watching the Robins and Blackbirds feeding. So quiet. This afternoon I tidied up the dead stems from last year, pruned the Roses on the Arch, and cut back the long rampant stems of the Blackberries. I watered and fed the front lawn, which is still looking a bit straggly and parched.
Monday 21 March 2011
Milder and bright, dry. The days are lengthening, summer time starts next weekend. Inevitably, a Squirrel has learnt there is food in the new pots on stalks, and also how to climb to get it. It’s annoying. Shall I try greasing the thin stalks? Would it work? The Snowdrops have fade and the first Daffodil is almost open in the top garden. The Blackbirds are busy nest-building in the Berberis Juliana on the front, and have taken over the front lawn for feeding. I’ve been scattering a few suet pellets on the lawn to encourage them. The transplanted Cowslips are settling in well.
Friday 18 March 2011
Cold with light drizzle, an ideal morning for hand-weeding on the lawn. Mainly Dandelions, but lots of them. They do grow back, usually two replacing one, but it does weaken them. Robin was very interested in what I was doing. The white Arabis on the front wall is in flower, a pretty little alpine. I’ve transplanted a few more Cowslips, dividing on large clump from the top garden, and dividing the plantlets between the front border and ‘Cowslip Corner’, on the edge of the woodland area. Pleased to see there are five small Lady’s Smock plants that have survived the winter and are growing well. One plant has failed. I may try to divide this little cluster of wild flowers again this year. One Daffodil in flower on the front garden border.
Wednesday 16 March 2011
A foggy morning. Hyacinths are now coming into bloom in the front garden. Snowdrops and crocuses still out. I took advantage of the dry bright mild day yesterday to give the lawns the first cut this year. Look much more ‘respectable’. Wildlife gardening can appear to be an untidy neglectful approach. Glad to see our Robins have discovered the new feeder bowl on a stalk – a bit like a tulip – I’ve placed at the top garden near the arch. As I refilled the bowl with suet pellets this morning the Robin was there within seconds.
Monday 14 March 2011
A bit of proper gardening at the weekend, trimmed and pruned the front garden bushes, cut back the dead stalks on the Marshmallow, Southernwood, Comfrey and Rue. I left them standing over the winter so the dried seed heads provided scarce food for birds. I hand-weeded the lawn and then scarified it with the lawn rake ready for a first cut soon. The fallen leaves swept from the drive provided several buckets full to add to the compost bins. I topped up the gravel along the side of the drive. I think Blackbirds are preparing to nest as usual this year in the Berberis Juliana. Pleased to see that nesting birds have already been visiting the new terracotta sphere containing wool suspended from a lower branch of the Big Fir. Both this and the new nesting box in the Big Fir are in direct line of sight of the study window, so I’m able to monitor any bird activity. Nothing yet noted at the nesting box. I checked the forced Rhubarb again this morning. Growing well. The bright red colour of the fresh stems is lovely. The few ‘Florence’ Strawberry plants in the top garden have survived the winter and look healthy.
Friday 11 March 2011
I haven’t seen the Greater Spotted Woodpecker again, but I hear it most days. It’s difficult to spot where it drums, probably on one of the Horse Chestnut trees. The area under the Big Fir that has been constantly dug and excavated is getting even rougher treatment these days – it resembles a dust bowl. Perhaps that’s what it is, for the Foxes. The soil disturbance is far too much for either Squirrels or Cats. Pleased to see the Grape Hyacinths I rescued last year are growing well and already have small flower heads visible.
Wednesday 9 March 2011
Turning cloudy and dull again with rain threatened, after a few really nice blue days, cold but getting warm in the sun. I’m keeping the supply of bird food going in the garden, at the bird table, scattered on the lawn and path, and also in the two new ‘cups on stalks’ – one in the lawn, one at the top garden. The Starlings feed and squabble at the cups, despite them being designed for smaller birds. The new leaf growth on the Honeysuckle pillar is impressive for early march. The Gooseberries are similarly advanced but they usually are ahead of the game.
Monday 7 March 2011
Today there’s a breath of spring in the air; quite warm in the sun, blue skies. I saw a Coal Tit at the bird table this morning, after an absence of a few weeks. The Robin came down to watch me scatter suet pellets and immediately took one. The usual noisy flapping gang of Starlings squabbling over the feeders. Everything is starting into growth. Leaf buds on the Roses around the arch, the Lovage has sprouted those lovely bronze and green shoots, the Chives border plants are all growing well. It will soon be time to take the winter cover off the garden seat. The Snowdrops are still in bloom. I will try to find time to transplant more to the lawns for next year, it’s a process that works if it’s done when they are green and in flower.
Friday 4 March 2011
Began cloudy and cold, but a lovely blue day by the afternoon, though still chilly. A Collared Dove feeding at the bird table, with a lone Starling waiting patiently to have its turn. The self-set Angelicas are growing strongly now. They are biennials, and this is the start of year two. Peonies pushing through, and many Aquilegias in growth.
Wednesday 2 March 2011
The first Cowslip is in flower today. They’re lovely plants, and such a welcome sight. This morning it was amusing to watch the Starlings feeding at the bird table. They arrive and leave in a fluttering chattering bustle. Then squabbles and fights break out as they try to grab the food. The Blue Tits and Robins are continuing to visit. The Gooseberries are in bud.
Monday 28 February 2011
February ends dull, dark, cloudy and wet. But I noticed a few flowers on a potted Rosemary, which has clearly survived the harsh winter. The Squirrels are obviously watching me put the bird feed out each morning, probably from the trees. Within minutes they are busy feeding off the ground. This morning, for the first time one Squirrel was so hungry that he ignored my close presence and just carried on eating.
Friday 25 February 2011
The rescued Daisies seem to have survived the hard frosts. In fact, one is actually in flower today. This is my project to reintroduce the common or garden Daisies to the lawns. They vanished after weed killer applications years ago before I was wiser. I took the upturned black bin off the forced Rhubarb crowns this morning to check growth. Looking good, stems about eight inches high, and the crowns have multiplied over the winter. The garden is wakening for spring. The perennial Sweet William cutting have grown well and matured. They should flower this year. I need to position my new terra cotta wool container for the birds to use as nesting liner. I’ll suspend it from a suitable branch in the woodland area. Two Crocuses are in flower, one yellow, one purple.
Wednesday 23 February 2011
The Hydrangea in a plant pot on the patio has started into growth. I’m also pleased that the Lady’s Smock clusters have survived the hard winter and look green and healthy.
Monday 21 February 2011
I noticed this morning that the Honeysuckle on the pyramid is already well into new growth. The garden is stirring after the hard winter. It will only take a milder spell soon to bring everything on. The Tulips and Daffodils ate about five inches high. But today is chilly and dull.
Friday 18 February 2011
I heard the Woodpecker drumming briefly this afternoon, but no more sightings.
The Snowdrops are in full bloom now. The Bluebells are also in growth, including those I transplanted under the Big Fir.
Wednesday 16 February 2011
It’s always a pleasure to identify a new wild visitor to the garden. This morning I spotted an unusual bird feeding on the hanging bird cake block A Great Spotted Woodpecker, with the red crest of the male bird. It was pecking away at the food much more aggressively than other birds, even the Starlings. I have heard for a week or two what I was sure was a Woodpecker drumming close by, but this is the first positive sighting. It flew off into the Horse Chestnut tress neighbouring. I shall watch hopefully for the next visit
Monday 14 February 2011
The new cup feeder on a metal stalk has quickly proved popular, especially with the Blue Tits and Robins. I haven’t seen the squirrels raiding it - yet. Today I put the second one at the top garden, near the sitting-out area. This one can’t be seen from the house, but I hope it will accustom birds to feed in that area. The many Chives edging plants have started new growth, quite rapidly. Now about three cm high.
Friday 11 February 2011
A dark mild miserable sort of day, but more bird song, including one I don’t recognise. Found lots of small green buds scattered under the Big Fir. Look like baby pine cones. Some creature has been busy. I don’t think it’s a Bullfinch. I’ve put out a new bird feeder, on a spike in the lawn, about a metre high with the feed in a small cup at the top. I imagine the Robins may be interested, but no takers yet.
Thursday 10 February 2011
Our Robin pair is still very active in the garden. Today when I was putting more food out one of them approached along the path to pick up a suet piece immediately and seemed unconcerned about my presence. I wonder how long before I get an indication where they may be nest building. Rain this afternoon, then milder.
Monday 7 February 2011
The Snowdrops have come on apace, not yet at peak but soon will be. I’m pleased that those I planted in the lawn and under the Big Fir have flowered. I thought they would, because I carefully transplanted ‘green’ plants rather than new bulbs, but you’re never sure. Snowdrops are lovely flowers, a bit late this year, but the first.
Thursday 3 February 2011
I’m wondering where the Robins are thinking of nesting. This morning I heard what I believe is the Robin’s alarm call, a slightly irascible tic - tic – tic, in the woodland area. I spotted the Robin flitting from branch to branch. There’s an old kettle lodged in the branches, and a watering can. They would be ideal nesting sites, apart from the danger of the Squirrels. If a nest is started in either, I may try to shield it with chicken wire.
Tuesday 1 February 2011
A dull damp cold start to February, with another overnight frost. The Snowdrops are slowly emerging into bloom, late this year. Still nowhere near their peak display. I put more bird food of various sorts out this morning, watched closely by the Robin. Earlier we’d had a noisy group of Starlings, and then the quiet sedate Collared Doves. The latter are a pair. The Robin has a mate as well, they are always together now. A Robin’s nest may be due in spring.
Monday 31 January 2011
January draws to a close with a frosty night then a glorious crisp blue day. Yesterday I spent an hour counting bird visitors to the garden for the RSPB garden watch. It was in the afternoon, and fewer than typical numbers, but still a good show. I only saw three starlings, whereas we are often getting a dozen or more feeding under (and on) the bird table, most days. On Saturday I spotted the return of three Goldfinches, picking seeds again near the Lemon Balm. I’ve now put up the new bird nesting box, fixed about ten feet high on the Big Fir, facing roughly north-east. By chance, I can see the entrance hole perfectly from my study window, through the branches. It should be possible to check if there are any takers. I’ve also cleaned out the old nest from the other box in the woodland area. I say ‘old’ – it was apparently in pristine condition; a domed structure with the entrance at the side facing the box entrance, made largely of a sort of moss, and lined with a furry insulation material which I recognise comes from a nearby building extension. Clever bird. I believe it is a Wren. It was certainly in use last year. I hope a new nest appears again here.
Friday 28 January 2011
Frost overnight so I was out early this morning replenishing the bird feed. It’s been slightly disappointing that there have been no surprise bird visitors to the garden this winter – so far. The bevy of Goldfinches was an exception. This weekend is the Garden Bird Watch organised by the RSPB in which I shall participate. January has overall been a cloudy dull month, with very few blue skies. More Snowdrops are in bloom including the first of those naturalised in the lawn.
Wednesday 26 January 2011
Another dull cloudy drizzly day but fairly mild for January. Cats aren’t much of a problem in our garden, but this morning saw a nice-looking tabby with a collar and bell sitting patiently at the bottom of the bird table post, waiting for a Squirrel feeding on the table to descend. There was evidently a sort of stand-off, with Squirrel looking down at cat and cat looking up at Squirrel. I didn’t witness the outcome, but then both creatures had vanished. My impression is that our garden birds are well able to deal with the cats. They have a system of alarm calls which seems effective.
Monday 24 January 2011
The first Snowdrops are in bloom, in several clumps in the garden, in the lawn and under the Big Fir. A little late this year. I bought a new supply of dried mealworms this afternoon and placed a few in the feeding area. Within five minutes a Robin was perched on a solar light nearby, and then hopped down to the lawn to feed. The Starlings have been feeding on the bird cakes. I’m pleased to see these once-common birds back in the garden.
Friday 21 January 2011
Frost overnight and misty in the early morning. The Squirrels have now learnt how to reach the bird feeders, negotiating the thin horizontal poles and the suspension wires. Clever creatures. I shall have to devise a new way of keeping them off the feeders. I had noticed that birds feeding tended to go for the bird cake block on the extreme right, largely ignoring the other two blocks. I assumed it was a particular variety, possibly suet and mealworms, that attracted them to this block. I changed the blocks round, but they still went for the outer right block. Then it dawned on me: this is the cake block closest to the rose bush, and a safe perch. It’s mainly the smaller birds that do this – Tits, Robin and Chaffinch. The Starlings go straight to the horizontal pole, then flutter down, more often than not to another feeder than that closest the rose. Today just the very first discernible lengthening of the days. We are heading back to midsummer.
Wednesday 19 January 2011
A dry crisp blue day, with that fresh morning smell in the air. I’ve spotted the first naturalised Snowdrops pushing through – in the lawn near the Big Fir. There should be many more. I made an effort last year to develop this feature. I placed an upturned black polythene bin over the rhubarb to force the growth for those tender pink stem in the spring. I need to cover the crowns in leaf mould or compost, possibly worm compost.
Monday 17 January 2011
Heavy persistent rain but still mild. The first Snowdrops are almost in bloom – the white petals are still tightly furled. As soon as we get some winter sunshine they will be out. The three tiny Holly bushes in the woodland area have survived well and will eventually provide an additional woodland feature here. I’m continuing to put out plenty of varied bird feed, and our Blue Tits, Robins, Wood Pigeons, Starlings and Collared Doves are frequent visitors.
Friday 14 January 2011
Dull and mild, after persistent drizzle for a couple of days. I noticed this morning that the terracotta edging tiles that I positioned last summer around the Vines had become loosened, probably due to the frosts. I’ve firmed them up with loose soil. Not much bird activity lately, and no Snowdrops yet in bloom.
Wednesday 12 January 2011
Drizzle and cloud. Milder. No Snowdrops in bloom yet.
Monday 10 January 2011
Cold cloudy morning again, though yesterday brightened up by the afternoon. I noticed this morning that the rhubarb crowns seem to have just started into growth. Seems early. I will cover them with compost and rotted leaves, then force them under an upturned black bin. We had an excellent early crop last year. Two Collared Doves have taken up residence in the garden, and feed every day at the bird table. The Blue Tits seem to have survived the bitter weather.
Thursday 6 January 2011
Cold cloudy and miserable in the garden this morning. More snow forecast. Blackbird feeding on the lawn under the bird table.
Wednesday 5 January 2011
Windy. A touch of March in the air. Evidence this morning by way of a few white feathers on the lawn of a Fox predator kill. I need to prune the Box tree. It’s occurred to me that the Box may be useful source of cuttings to create a low border hedge on the front.
Tuesday 4 January 2011
Cloudy and milder. A Robin spotted at the feeders this morning. I’ve put out more dried mealworms and suet pellets. Inspected the Russian Vine now it is completely bare. Essential to prune it back in places, not least to prevent growth into next gardens. It would be nice to see nests here this spring. There are four nest boxes, but the only inhabitant as far as I’m aware has been a Dormouse.
Monday 3 January 2011
A touch of frost in the air, with a thin ice layer on the water butt. A pleasant atmosphere this morning in the garden, a freshness after the mild damp days. I discovered the first Snowdrops in the garden. Just a centimetre above ground, in two of the areas at the top garden where I have established Snowdrop clusters. The earliest sign in the garden of pre-Spring. More obvious disturbance of the ground beneath the Big Fir. Looks like the work of Squirrels added to the Fox excavations. I think it may be a Fox latrine area.
Saturday 1 January 2011 New Year’s Day
Cloudy with light drizzle. The gardens look a mess. No sign of snowdrops. Very little bird activity at the feeders this morning.
Friday 31 December 2010 New Year’s Eve
Mildish and cloudy, dull. The garden looks flat on its back after the big freeze. I wonder whether there is much more to come before spring. I expect so. Magpie alighted on the bird table this morning, then flew off to perch on the fence, clacking in an annoyed way as though frustrated at being too big and clumsy to be able to get at the food in the feeders, and unwilling to feed under the table roof. Highlights of the cold weather have been a return of a bevy of Starlings, the Goldfinches’ visit, and the Long Tailed Tit. Perhaps we will be rewarded for our feeding efforts by more resident and nesting birds in the garden in 2011.
Thursday 30 December 2010
Relatively mild, cloudy, but quite cold. The garden has a damp, dank, slightly autumnal feel this morning. I put more dried mealworms out in the domed feeder for our Robin hopefully. But Starlings have arrived, and are tussling over them. A Coal Tit is repeatedly visiting the bird table and flying back to the Big Fir with a seed.
Wednesday 29 December 2010
The snow has cleared now. But in the water butt there’s ice six inches thick. An indicator of the depth of the freeze. No sign anywhere of snowdrops shooting up. My garden thermometer seems to be sticking, it’s showing a couple of degrees below freezing when clearly there’s a thaw. I’ll need to check it.
Tuesday 28 December 2010
A misty milder day with the thaw set in. Ice is melting, and only odd patches of snow remain in the garden. I looked for any signs of Snowdrops this morning. Nothing seen. A couple of Wood Pigeons have been feeding, and Robin has visited. Under the Box tree is a large depression in the ground against the side fence. It has been there for a long time, I think it’s still in use as a sort of lair, possibly by a Fox.
Monday 27 December 2010
A thaw has started today, dull and cloudy. The lawn grass is gradually becoming visible again, the first time in about two weeks. This morning clear evidence of Fox activity under the Big Fir – disturbed earth and attempts to excavate. Not obvious what the motive is. I replenished the bird feeders with dried mealworms, mixed seeds, crushed and whole peanuts. Robin has put in an appearance.
Sunday 26 December 2010 Boxing Day
Still no thaw. The garden in the icy grip of midwinter. I watched five plump and apparently well-nourished Wood Pigeons feeding on the lawn and path beneath the bird feeders. I’ve sprinkled lots of bird seed around, which they painstakingly pick up grain by grain, in a laboriously repetitive way. Unlike Starlings, who feed like gannets, so to speak. They don’t bother much about the Squirrels feeding close by, and the Squirrels show no aggression to the Wood Pigeons. It seems a lot to do with size; a smaller animal thinks twice before tackling a larger creature. The Magpies parachute down and don’t care what’s around, apart from the cat. I didn’t see a Robin today.
Saturday 25 December 2010 Christmas Day
A white Christmas, if we ignore the bookies obtuse definition of a white Christmas which requires snow to actually fall on Christmas Day. The first thing this morning was a quick look out the kitchen window, and there was Fox a few feet away, looking for food on the lawn beneath the bird feeders. He picked up a small plastic saucer, carried it a couple of feet and dropped it. After wondering around the next garden, he returned and disappeared at the top of the garden. Still cold, but sunny by late morning and seeming a bit warmer by early evening. My only venture out was to gather a few sprigs of Rosemary for the turkey. Christmas lunch was entertained by bird table visits of Magpies, Wood Pigeons, Robin, Chaffinch and a few quarrelling Starlings, joined by two Squirrels.
Friday 24 December 2010 Christmas Eve
A white Christmas Eve in the garden. Still very cold, so just a quick walk around the garden this morning. Later I’ll cut Holly and Ivy for Christmas decorations in the house. WE have a lovely Holly bush in the front garden which always bears a huge crop of red berries. This year is no exception. The trunk of the Big Fir is host to Ivy, which has now reached about twelve feet from the ground.
Thursday 23 December 2010
The garden is still snow bound. The potted plants on the patio, which I should really have brought indoors, are going to suffer badly I fear. A steady stream of customers at the bird feeders today. Blackbirds, Blue Tits, Coal Tits, Great Tits, Dunnocks, but no Starlings seen today. Robin seems to regard the whole set-up as his own, perched on a solar light surveying the scene and flying irascibly at intruders. More Fox evidence during the night with fresh footprints near the garage.
Wednesday 22 December 2010
Still intensely cold with snow everywhere and a truly white Christmas Day just three days away, barring a sudden dramatic thaw which is not forecast. I put more bird feed out this morning, including live mealworms. I’m not sure how long they stay alive in this cold. Robin has been around all morning. I tried to tempt him to take mealworms from my hand, but he stayed warily perched in the rose bush. Evidence of a nocturnal Fox visit, with a bird feed cake tablet moved some distance. The garden is bleak and quiet – that deep winter silence. Crows around at times, and Magpies.
Tuesday 21 December 2010 Shortest Day of the Year
The deep long early winter freeze continues, with just a light brief snow flurry this morning. No recent signs of Fox activity. The Starlings have been gorging on the love mealworms. Robins seem more circumspect. They like to perch on nearby objects – the solar lights, dustbin lid, the feeder bars. They are aggressive birds seeing off any intruders on their patch, as they see it. This December we are told may prove to be the coldest December since Victorian times.
Monday 20 December 2010
No more snow, yet, but continuing bitterly cold and snow lying everywhere, six inches deep in places. Yesterday I spotted a Pied Wagtail feeding on the lawn – the first ever in the garden that I’ve recorded. It’s interesting how the Starlings have become used to the hanging feeders. They are ungainly and seem to lose their balance, but with persistence they are able to feed, voraciously. I’ve had two Starlings feeding at the tiny domed mealworm feeder, then squabbling and flying off wings flapping at each other. They were after the dried mealworms I assume. I don’t have any qualms about feeding Starlings these days – their number shave collapsed and it’s good to see them around. Not the nuisance they used to be. I wish I could encourage the House Sparrows back. Today I bought live mealworms from out local pet store. Curiously, not much interest in them from our birds this afternoon.
Saturday 18 December 2010
Snowing all day with about six inches laying in the freezing cold at times blizzard conditions. At 1045 tonight I heard a familiar sound of the side gate being climbed. I’ve always put it down to the Foxes – it’s too heavy for a cat. I looked out of the kitchen window and there was Reynard trotting down the snow-covered garden path. He disappeared into the woodland area. I opened the side door, and there sure enough were Fox’s footprints in the virgin snow, leading from the side gate. Ten minutes later I heard a brief frantic squawking from the bottom of the garden. I suspect Fox may have got his prey.
Friday 17 December 2010
This morning began dull with a few light snow flurries, but by midday was sunny and blue, bitterly cold. The bird table has been like Piccadilly Circus. I identified a Long Tailed Tit for the first time feeding at the bird table. Identified by reddish-brown on the upper back. We’ve had the usual Blue Tits, Robins, Chaffinch and a welcome flock of Starlings. I counted some ten or more at one time. Starlings have even been using the mealworm feeder. I had raised the height of the dome to allow larger birds to feed in this freezing weather. The Starlings were scattering as many mealworms on to the lawn as they were eating at the feeder, but there was a ground feeding party going on snapping up the fallen mealworms. Clearly the overnight hard frost has driven birds to voracious feeding.
Thursday 16 December 2010
Light rain this morning. Severe frost forecast for tonight followed by snow. How prolonged this next attack of wintry weather continues remains to be seen. A dismal garden scene as we head for the shortest day of the year.
Wednesday 15 December 2010
Relatively mild and dull with drizzle. Yesterday evening, about nine o’clock, I heard strange animal noises from the garden. A series of low howls, rather like a drawn-out Tawny Owl’s call, with an occasional quiet bark. Then fiercer short screams. The sounds moved around the garden, then became more distant and stopped. Clearly a Fox or Foxes. There was nothing unusual in the garden this morning to link with the Fox’s evening visit.
Tuesday 14 December 2010
Cloudy damp and dull. Just above freezing. Fairly typical mid December. It’s interesting to see how the Squirrels react with the various bird species, and how the birds get on among themselves. This morning I noted how the usually bold aggressive Magpies scatter when a Squirrel approaches. In fact, the Squirrels literally chase the Magpies off. I also noticed how the Magpies fly away when the placid plump lethargic Wood Pigeons get too close. Robins are aggressive birds. One Robin this morning was seriously harassing a Dunnock - pursuing it all over the garden. The dust bowl under the Big Fir is still in use. I think the Foxes are using it as a sort of dust bath. The Squirrels continue their hording habit, busy burying peanuts everywhere, not attempting to disguise the little holes they dig.
Monday 13 December 2010
A pleasant wintry sun this morning, with - 1 degrees C in the garden. Yesterday I reinstated the horizontal arm of the bird table that fell down last week. So the mealworm feeder is back in action, and has already had Blue Tit visitors. I’ve seen the Robin feeding their, but infrequently. Noticed that the Aloe Vera cactus on the patio has drooped and looks in poor condition after the frosts. I really ought to have brought it indoors.
Friday 10 December 2010
The thaw continues, but the effects of the hard frosts are obvious. The ‘Mind Your Own Business’ (Helxine) has been blackened, and the Spider Plant. I have noticed a scattering of white downy feathers near the south fence - looking very much like the work of a Fox.
Thursday 9 December 2010
Slightly less cold, - 3 degrees C in garden. Cloud and some blue sky. Not much bird activity apparent. I heard a couple of Crows cawing this morning. The leaves have now fallen from the Russian Vine. I need to prune this back before the spring, and other pruning including the Box and Berberis Juliana. The disturbed soil beneath the Big Fir is still being turned over and dug. No Fox sightings recently, but they are clearly active.
Wednesday 8 December 2010
Still freezing, slightly less cold, - 5 degrees C in garden. I hope the potted Rosemary cuttings have survived. I think the Spider Plant must have gone, and the Tradescantia. No Goldfinches today. I reckon they were also feeding off Lemon Balm seeds yesterday. Not much bird table activity today that I’ve spotted. A Robin, and a Blackbird, and Blue Tits.
Tuesday 7 December 2010
One of those frosty blue December days, with mist. It would be a joy to be out in the fields and hills. The garden equally has its delights. This morning we had a special visit by a bevy of Goldfinches. The first time I’ve positively identified these tiny colourful red, black and yellow birds in the garden. They were busy feeding on the seeds of a Lavender bush. I’d have thought Lavender was a bit too aromatic for birds’ tastes, but certainly not this freezing December. They vanished as suddenly as they appeared.
Monday 6 December 2010
Bitterly cold after a brief respite at the weekend. I examined the two log and branch piles in the woodland area this morning. I may be mistaken, it was probably a dead leaf in the wind, but I thought I glimpsed a mouse creature darting. No sign of the Dormouse at the nesting box on the top fence – but I didn’t disturb the Russian Vine stems. A flurry of Starlings attacking the bird feeders this morning, and Blue tits, Coal Tits and a Chaffinch. Then after lunch I noticed that one of the horizontal arms supporting the hanging feeders was down on the lawn, with the feeders. I don’t know how it happened. I haven’t seen the Squirrels around. Need to fix it.
Friday 3 December 2010
More of the same bitterly cold weather. This morning I walked to the top of the garden to inspect the four nesting boxes fixed behind the Russian Vine. The vine was covering the entrance holes to the boxes, so I parted the branches to give easier access. At one box, as I was moving the branches aside, a little face suddenly appeared in the hole – bright eyes, light brown fur with white underparts. The face stared at me intently, as if to say ‘did you ring the bell?’ In an instant it was gone; back in the box I think, but the tiny creature may have made a dash for it. It was mouse-like, but not the greyish coat of a house mouse. Checking the books, I think the winter inhabitant of the bird box was either a dormouse, bank vole or a wood mouse. A surprise, since the box is more than six feet from the ground. But I was pleased that the little fellow had found a safe dry refuge from this bitter winter. The ice in the water tub was frozen so thickly that I could only just smash it using a house brick and main force. A single Blue Tit seen feeding at the peanuts today.
Thursday 2 December 2010
Still – 8 degrees C in the garden. Fox tracks evident in the snow around the garden. This morning the Squirrels cracked the problem of reaching the suspended bird feeders. Probably driven by hunger. I didn’t see how they managed it – no doubt by hanging down from the horizontal bar. I went out and shooed him away twice, but he was back in less than five minutes. A more aggressive shooing with a bit of shouting. and a thrown stick has kept them away so far. But apart from a Woodpigeon there has been a total absence of birds at the feeders today.
Wednesday 1 December 2010
No more snow but a biting east wind and -8 degrees C in the garden thermometer. A bevy of Starlings attacked the bird feeders this morning. I’m glad to see these birds around. They have been absent for a long time now as their numbers have collapsed. They are voracious. One Starling was gorging on the mealworms in the domed feeder, despite the dome having fallen low over the feed. I couldn’t break the ice in the tub; it needed a house brick, and that had to be smashed hard into the ice. Robins and Blue Tits have been at the feeders this morning.
Tuesday 30 November 2010
Snow overnight. The first serious snowfall this cold snap, but still not much more than a light dusting. Frosty and bright, still - 7 degrees C in the garden. Obvious footprints of the Fox around the garden, and a Cat. The weight of snow settled on the new domed bird feeder was enough to lower the dome and close the feeder. I’ve cleared snow off all the feeders and broken the ice on the water tub. Collared Doves around, and Robin and Dunnock, but otherwise little activity this morning. As though the wildlife has battened the hatches in this bitterly cold weather and is trying to conserve energy.
Monday 29 November 2010
The bitterly cold weather has brought all the wildlife into the garden. Our resident fox was out in broad daylight yesterday, rather than at dawn and dusk. I managed to take two photos Yesterday we also had three squirrels, wood pigeons, collared doves, song thrush, blackbird, magpie, robin, blue tit, great tit, coal tit, dunnock and chaffinch. Today there has been a quarrelling group of six or so crows, and seagulls circling high above. The new domed mealworm feeder is a success, though it seems to appeal more to the blue tits than the robin. I’ve put a bowl of water on the lawn near the bird table. It’s been visited by several species including the magpies. This morning I had to break the thick layer of ice and pour on hot water. Amazingly, the squirrels seem to have been defeated by my trick of hanging the feeders on thin wires from the horizontal bar. One made a feeble effort to reach the bird cake, but gave up. I’ve compensated by putting peanuts in the old squirrel feeder, and scattered on the path. The temperature today was -7 degrees C on the garden thermometer.
Friday 26 November 2010
Bright crisp sunny after a hard frost, and still freezing. The garden thermometer gives - 5 degrees C. More activity at what seems like a dustbowl under the Big Fir. I wonder if the Foxes are using it as a dust bath? Robins, Coal Tits, Blue Tits, Wood Pigeons, Blackbirds and of course Squirrels visited the feeders yesterday, and there have been Robins and Coal Tits this morning. I haven’t seen any birds feeding from the new domed mealworm dispenser yet.
Thursday 25 November 2010
Frosty and dull. No snow yet, but white frost over the garden first thing this morning. Yesterday I bought a new bird feed dispenser. It’s an adjustable dome covering a round tray and is eminently suitable for mealworms and niger seeds for the Robins. However, no takers yet. In fact I’m a bit disappointed that despite the bitterly cold weather there have been no birds feeding at the bird table this morning. Maybe later in the afternoon. More overnight digging at the earthworks under the Big Fir. My terracotta garden thermometer is registering - 3 degrees C.
Wednesday 24 November 2010
The first serious frost of the winter. A sunny dry bitterly cold day. More activity overnight is obvious in the disturbed soil beneath the Big Fir. An attempt to excavate deeper. I wonder if the Fox is attempting to bury something here? I will need to replace the bird seed dispenser hanging from the bird table. It has been chewed away and damaged by the Squirrel. It might be a good idea to suspend it by a wire from the lateral iron rods. This technique continues to defeat the Squirrel’s attempts to reach the bird food.
Tuesday 23 November 2010
Dry dull and getting colder. This morning I spotted a new feature under the Big Fir. A circular area some four feet diameter cleared of the accumulated ‘woodland floor’ leaf debris, where the earth has been loosened and almost cultivated. It must surely be Fox activity. The Teasels at the top garden and along the south border path are still standing. I’ve not noticed any bird interest in this source of food.
Monday 22 November 2010
A dark cloudy day. The Squirrels have still not been able to reach the bird feed block dangling at the end of a thin wire. At the weekend I put another feed block up in the same way, and that also has survived so far. I’ve seen Robins and Blackbirds feeding at the blocks, with some difficulty and awkwardness. This morning I noticed that the wire netting protecting one of the mushrooms under the Big Fir had been moved away, and the mushroom uprooted, though not eaten. I replanted the mushroom, and replaced the wire. Clearly the work of a Fox. The point was unpleasantly confirmed when I inadvertently stepped into nearby droppings - certainly not from squirrels or cats.
Friday 19 November 2010
A lovely crisp blue November morning. I may have found a device which keeps the Squirrels off the bird food. It’s a long thin wire dangling from the end of the horizontal rod from the bird table, with a wire box containing a suet peanut block at the end. The wire seems just long enough to prevent the Squirrels even stretched at full length and upside down from reaching the food. It’s worked for one day at least. I heard an unidentified bird song this morning, from one of the Fir trees; a fast trilling song.
Thursday 18 November 2010
A cloudy milder damp day. The red plastic string bag of peanuts suspended by a thin wire from the bird table didn’t last long. It was soon ripped open and the peanuts scattered over the lawn below. I collected as many as I could find and I’ll replenish the peanut feeder with them. The Squirrels are truly impossible to keep away from the bird food, with their prodigious leaps and fearless acrobatics Yesterday there were three Squirrels all around the bird table. The Shaggy Ink Cap mushrooms are disintegrating and any contact with them leaves a black stain.
Tuesday 16 November 2010
Frost overnight; now a lovely crisp sunny November day. Robin, Blackbird, Coal Tit and Blue Tit feeding at the bird table this morning, and of course the Squirrel. I’ve put a red string bag of peanuts dangling from a thin wire attached to the end of the side rod from the bird table, in another attempt to defeat the antics of the Squirrels. It’s unlikely to succeed. I found two new large clumps of mushrooms this morning under the Big Fir. They are Shaggy Ink Caps, and have already started to disintegrate possibly due to the frost, although the Field Blewitts, or Ceps, are still surviving well.
Monday 15 November 2010
A crisp sunny day. Saw a Robin in the garden this morning. The closed mushroom with a baby mushroom at its base has now opened out into a flat buff-coloured cap about five centimetres across. On close examination the stem and gills have a slight bluish hue. It’s similar to the previous mushroom that I transplanted, which is still looking healthy. I think the cold temperatures may be contributing to the longevity of these fungi. Still a few wizen Redcurrants on the bushes. Today I was still picking fully ripened sweet Blackberries. Surely unusual for mid November?
Friday 12 November 2010
A calmer typical November day, dry, cloudy and quite mild. The wormery continues to work well, producing regular substantial amounts of liquid feed. I use it on the garden, but not sure of the value of a high nitrogen feed as the dormant winter season approaches. I put a new fibre matting cover on top of the highest compost tray, just below the lid. I use hanging basket liners; they are much cheaper and just as effective as the special matting available. The idea is to help retain the compost moisture, and to insulate again the winter cold. I noticed this morning there were far fewer worms in the lid and matting area. Pleased to see the Lady’s Smock clumps have survived the summer and look set for a display in the spring. I’ve thrown a bit of soil around them to protect against the winter.
Thursday 11 November 2010
Windy, rain, dull, but a bit milder. The leaves have gone from the Horse Chestnut trees nearby. A bleak November day and just a brief walk round the garden.
Wednesday 10 November 2010
A fine November day. Sunny, crisp, a cold breeze. I found another mushroom under the Big Fir this morning. Fungi are an interesting feature of my garden. I suspect that the varieties I find are those liking a coniferous habitat. The latest is small, rounded, a smooth wet-looking uniform buff colour with a short, thick stem and another tiny mushroom at the base. My initial identification is either a Bay Boletus, or a Cep. Wood Pigeons have been feeding under the bird table today, and Blackbirds. I noticed that all the grapes bar a couple have been taken from the Vines, presumably by the birds. They were still green and small, but some were quite sweet.
Tuesday 9 November 2010
Another dull cloudy breezy day but the rain has eased off. A female Blackbird perched on the extended side pole of the bird table this morning. With much hesitation and difficulty she managed to peck at one of the three hanging suet and seed and nut cakes. You realise how agile the Blue Tits are by comparison. As are the Squirrels, who have no problem at all. A Magpie visited the pole yesterday. There’s plenty of crumbs on the grass at the base, and the Blackbird prefers to feed there, but ever wary of predator cats.
Friday 5 November 2010
Rain for Bonfire Night, persistent, but still mild. The transplanted mushroom is still in good shape, so it can be done. The three transplanted Holly bushlets are also thriving, in the woodland area. I think they will be all right now. The leaves of the potted Hydrangea have turned a wonderful blend of gold, crimson and brown. I should really have planted it out. There is still time, and I suppose the dormant winter season may be the best time.
Thursday 4 November 2010
Again cloudy, dull and mild. This morning a Squirrel had been at work apparently trying to remove one of the rectangular wire holders containing suet and seed bird feed from the bird table. The holder was half way along the horizontal rod I had installed in a failed attempt to stop the Squirrels reaching the bird feed. There seems no limit to the ingenuity of these creatures. The gardens look untidy and neglected.
Tuesday 2 November 2010
Cloudy and dull but still fairly mild for November. This morning I found what looks like a small part of an animal hoof or horn in the garden, lying on the ground under the Big Fir. Sounds like Fox activity. I’m thinking about installing a bird nesting box with a webcam inside.
Monday 1 November 2010
A typical early November day, on cue. Brightish in an autumnal way, quite mild, dry and pleasant. I found an attempt by a Squirrel to eat and bury a yellow bouncy ball with a green interior, half chewed away, half buried under the Big Fir. Near by a mushroom slightly nibbled and upended from the soil. It had a bluish stem and a pale flat buff cap. I identified it by reference to my mushroom book as a Field Blewitt. We used to call them Blue Stales. Very edible. I really must try to use these occasional mushrooms under the Big Fir in cooking. I replanted it, hoping to encourage future crops. I suppose one can replant a fungus. A few more late Blackberries to pick and eat. Not the sweet juiciness of summer, but nice all the same. A surprisingly good grape crop this year, despite my indiscriminate pruning in the Spring.
Friday 29 October 2010
A dull cloudy day, dry and quite mild for late October. I tried again to thwart the squirrels reaching the bird feed by using a horizontal thin metal pole from the bird table, with the peanut and suet block at the end. But this was no problem at all for these incredibly agile and acrobatic creatures. Lots of small round holes around the garden where the squirrels are burying something. I’ve noticed a mushroom has been eaten presumably by the squirrels. Pleased to find a few delicious blackberries to pick and eat today – a late harvest. There are still a few redcurrants still on the bushes. Most of the harvest is now in the freezer.
Wednesday 27 October 2010
Much milder today after a cold spell. Another mushroom pushing through under the Big Fir. I’m tempted to try harvesting these mushrooms and doing a taste test – they look just like ordinary field mushrooms and nothing like the poisonous varieties. The Hosta foliage is gradually dying down after a frost overnight earlier this week. I’ve replenished the bird table and feeders, but no birds have been feeding, only the squirrels and a couple of Pigeons picking up scraps on the lawn below the table. There were two obviously young Pigeons recently; I think they are the latest fledglings from the Big Fir Pigeon nest that was evident in the late summer.
Wednesday 22 September 2010
Warm sunny, a lovely September morning. I noticed that the old galvanised iron watering can which has been lodged in the Prunus tree and has housed several bird’s nests had become dislodged. I have moved it to a fairly secure place in the Box shrub. The large bone has moved to the foot of the Big Fir tree. More evidence of Foxes. The Squirrels are harvesting the conkers. They like to peel off the shiny brown skin and nibble away at the nut,
Monday 20 September 2010
A breezy sunny day and the conkers are falling while I sit on the top garden seat. A late second flush of flowers on the Antirrhinums - yellow, white, orange. The Flag Iris is in bloom with its orange spikes. Yesterday I witnessed a remarkable sight in the garden – literally a gathering of Blue and Coal Tits, mainly Blue. At least twenty or thirty birds. Remarkably, they all seemed strangely frenetic, flying hither and thither everywhere, including the windows and walls of the house. It lasted a good ten minutes. Evidence of our Foxes – bits of fawn Fox fur on the lawn, and a large bone partly buried in the woodland area. The Squirrels are busy gathering and burying the conkers.
Friday 17 September 2010
The Cerastium plant that I rescued from the top garden has done very well in a plant pot on the patio. I suspect it likes free drainage, which it now has. It will have to be put back into the garden. I also need to find a home in the garden for the Hydrangea which has thrived on the patio but which must now be pot bound. The gardens are truly autumnal on a bright fresh mid-September day.
Thursday 16 September 2010
The transplanted Holly bushlets seem to be doing fine – only one of the five has died. The cut-down Berberis has thrown up several quite strong healthy shoots from the base at ground level. Another windy blustery day with sun and showers.
Wednesday 15 September 2010
Windy, a bit like March this morning in the garden. I’ve harvested most of the Apples, and the remaining Pears. I usually wait for the fruits to fall, in the belief they will then have reached maximum ripeness. However, this does lead to loss through bruising and birds, snails, slugs and other fruit eaters. A good crop of Apples and Pears this autumn. Lots of small fungi in the lawns apart from the mushrooms.
Tuesday 14 September 2010
Surprising how the garden has changed after just a few days absence. The Michaelmas Daisies are now in full bloom. More mushrooms under the Big Fir. A Cowslip in flower. The garden has windswept untidy appearance. The lawns need mowing. There are several bunches of green grapes on the Vine, too late as ever to ripen before the frosts. The Ice Plant, whose botanical name escapes me is also in flower.
Wednesday 8 September 2010
A slight mist early this morning. More evidence of Squirrel activity with the Horse Chestnuts. I added a further caddy-full of kitchen organic waste to the wormery, which continues to thrive and has produced a constant supply of liquid feed throughout the summer.
Tuesday 7 September 2010
Thunder this afternoon, a brief shower, then sun. This morning I found a Frog in one of the plant bowls filled with rain water on the patio. It was a half grown Frog. I took it up the garden and emptied the water plus Frog near the Michaelmas Daisies. One leap and away. Lots of evidence all over the garden of the Squirrels digging around, and empty Horse Chestnut conker shells. Three Blue Tits on the bird feeder.
Monday 6 September 2010
The weather is cloudier today with rain threatened. Three mushrooms have appeared, close to the Big Fir. One is the pure white cap type, the others have a fawnish cap. I haven’t harvested the Redcurrants but they are still there, if I have time. I missed out completely on Gooseberries this summer, which is a great pity since it was an excellent crop. They seemed to go over more quickly than usual. Autumn is definitely in the air.
Friday 3 September 2010
This morning I found a dead bird under the Big Fir. Looked like a young Thrush, with a speckled breast. We can’t afford to lose Thrushes. The Michaelmas Daisies are starting to come out, it will be another week or so before they are in full bloom I think. A lovely fallen Pear this morning. I think it’s a Comice – yellowish skin with pinkish-red blushes.
Thursday 2 September 2010
September has started with a welcome return to more settled dry sunny weather. There is s decent crop of Grapes on the two Vines, but no chance they will ripen. Another flush of fungi around the sawn-off base of the old Berberis bush. They are fawn-coloured clustered smooth caps. The gardens look very untidy.
Friday 27 August 2010
Spotted a Fox this morning in the next garden. Just a fleeting but unmistakeable glimpse as it trotted away. I notice that the snails have proliferated in these damp conditions, around the Hostas. I will need to watch carefully for signs of any damage.
Thursday 26 August 2010
Prolonged heavy rain yesterday evening and throughout the night left the garden soaked and dripping. August has again turned wet, dull and cool. But an excellent crop of Pears ripening, and the heaviest Apple crop on the old tree for a long time.
Wednesday 25 August 2010
I’m gathering and using the fallen apples from the old Apple tree. Though small and needing cleaning up, they are sweet and an excellent taste – the old James Grieve variety. Blackberry picking time is here in the garden. Despite being severely hacked back (or perhaps because of) there’s a brilliant crop of large sweet Blackberries. The old Berberis bush, which I chopped back to the base, is throwing up new shoots. Only one of the five little Holly bushes which I moved into the woodland area has failed, so far. A second flush of Antirrhinum blooms adds plenty of colour at the top garden. The Teasels are everywhere. I like their architectural outlines and the unique seed heads.
Tuesday 24 August 2010
This August has been showers and sun, with average temperatures. Lots of the tiny frogs in the lawn grass this morning. And another young squirrel doing the rounds along the fence tops and through the trees. Several of the older Hostas have been in bloom this summer. The flowers all seem to be variations on a lilac theme, pendant tubular or bell-shaped.
Monday 23 August 2010
0830 am yesterday morning I was looking at the garden out of the study window. I spotted what I thought was a ginger cat in the woodland area. The cat came closer, along the path. Suddenly I could see it wasn’t a cat. The young fox, about half grown, was exploring. Then a second fox, about the same size. Both looked healthy and alert. I watched them for about five minutes before they disappeared up to the top garden, before I could take any photos. Overnight heavy rain. When I examined the water butt this morning, there was a tiny frog swimming around. It could not have got in other than with the rain – the butt is about three feet high. It must rain frogs. Then I came across many little frogs in the longish grass of the lawn, all leaping away as I approached. I carefully took the water butt frog up to the top garden and released it.
Friday 6 August 2010
Buddleia still in flower, with that heavy sweet perfume in the air. The Antirrhinums also continue with a good display of colour. The garden is starting to look autumnal, as the days begin to shorten, though this is still high summer. More fir branchlets on the path in the woodland area. I think it must be Squirrel activity, but I don’t understand the purpose. There are several young Squirrels around the garden. The new shoot on the Ena Harkness rose continues to grow. It’s now over six feet high - a single stem from the base of the plant, at soil level. In effect it has become the main stem, and has given much-needed height to the rose, which suffered a devastating loss of leaf last year. My main concern is that this new sappy growth has time to harden before the frosts.
Friday 30 July 2010
The Gooseberries are rapidly going over. The ripest berries are now falling. I need to harvest this crop soon. This morning I trimmed back the Russian Vine. It had started to entangle with the rose arch again. It grows with amazing speed. As July draws to a close, the weather is changeable but still mainly dry, with average temperatures. All the Ferns are doing well this year, but I’ve had to keep them well watered. The Hart’s Tongue had become smothered in various self-set plants including the Borage. I tidied it up and watered it this morning. Still tiny Frogs underfoot in the top garden. I ought to mention that last week we had a Song Thrush around the garden. We don’t see Thrushes much these days, unlike years ago when they were very common. I had forgotten what wonderful songsters they are. Loud, rich, varied song, but with little phrases repeated in quick succession. She has disappeared this week.
Thursday 29 July 2010
Hosta ‘August Moon’ – the oldest of the five hostas – is in bloom; pale lilac hanging flowers on long stems. Over recent days I’ve found neatly cut fir tree branchlets, about six inches long, strewn on the path under the Big Fir in the woodland area. Must have fallen down from Pigeon or Squirrel activity at the tree top. But the cuts are too neat for anything other than wild creature action. I’m assuming they have been collected by Pigeons or Squirrels from a neighbouring garden where there’s been fir tree trimming, and dropped in the process of nest or dray building. An excellent heavy crop of apples on the James Grieve tree.
Wednesday 28 July 2010
The new Campanula plant near the top garden seat is in flower - blue starlets. A surprise. I thought it had done flowering this year, and I did dead-heading for a while. Another tiny Frog leapt out of my way on the path this morning. The transplanted Holly plants in the woodland area seem to be doing well, apart from the tiniest, which has lost some leaves and looks to be struggling. I spotted the first re-growth of the Berberis from the cut-down stems today. I hope it does succeed in re-growing to a small bush.
Tuesday 27 July 2010
Ena Harkness rose continues to recover from last year’s near fatality. No sign yet of the calamitous leaf-drop, and a new main stem has pushed up rapidly from the base to around six feet, close to the top of the arch. There should be sufficient time before the autumn frosts for this new growth to harden-off and survive the winter. Only one rose this year, but I’m pleased to see the plant in growth. More frogs around the top garden today, tiny ones, and middle-sized ones. A good sign of a healthy thriving garden.
Monday 26 July 2010
The soft fruit – redcurrants, gooseberries and a few blackcurrants need harvesting. The gooseberries are getting over-ripe. The old James Grieve apple tree has an excellent crop, and the pears are ripening. Lots of self-set Teasels mainly at the top garden and along the north fence path. Their flower heads are turning pale purple. They are striking plants. I can’t remember whether they are wild, or whether I introduced them many years ago. Either way, they have a remarkable ability to colonise and thrive in the most unlikely places.
Friday 16 July 2010
Much cooler lately and showery with strong winds. The garden therefore looks bedraggled and windswept. Yesterday I spotted the Frog at the top garden. I’ve also come across a small Frog near the top fence. Lots of young Blue Tits at the feeder peanuts this morning.
Friday 9 July 2010
Over 30 degrees C on the terracotta garden thermometer. Another sunny blue and hot day. The soft fruit is a bumper crop again this year. Gooseberries and Redcurrants hanging heavily, and my solitary remaining Blackcurrant has a fair crop. The Daisy I rescued from the lawn – the last one – is doing very well in a plant pot. Fed and watered, it has provided a succession of Daisies, and is actually fine as a potted plant. I’ve had to rescue the Cerastium cutting from the top garden, and I’m giving it the daisy treatment. The parent plant on the front is doing quite well, but I’ve never had much luck with Cerastium over the years. Possibly doesn’t like alkaline soil, or perhaps I over-water.
Thursday 8 July 2010
The warm dry weather has continued over the past week. I have now carried out my plan to prune the old Berberis in the woodland area. As this work progressed it became apparent that the whole bush would need removing, and I’ve done this. It’s not totally dead, and it will be interesting to see if there is any regrowth from the stump. I hope so – it would be a nice feature. Clearing the Berberis has created a bit more open space. Yesterday I bought a new Hosta ‘Patriot’ to add to there Hostas along the path next to the Berberis site. Also, I’ve transplanted five small Holly bushes – all self-sets – from the top garden to the woodland area. It they take to this location it may create a useful addition. The Ena Harkness rose has thrown out a new vigorous shoot from the base area. The leaves on this rose have still not shown appreciable black spot. I hope this marks a resuscitation of the plant, which became defoliated last summer and apparently in terminal decline.
Thursday 1 July 2010
Hot, dry but more cloud and breezy at times. I checked out the wormery this morning, and emptied the bottom tray. A recurring problem is persuading the worms to migrate upwards from the bottom tray. I suppose they are still finding food there, but it isn’t apparent. My system now is to empty the tray into a bucket, worms and all. Then leave the bucket in the sun so the top layers dry out, and this does move the worms to towards the bottom. Then I skim off the top layer of compost for immediate use. Theoretically, the worms will all be huddled at the bottom, and can be returned en masse to the new bottom tray in the wormery. The empty tray goes on top, under the lid. Yesterday I made a big mistake. I was lightly trimming the Berberis Juliana on the front, when the fledgling Blackbirds in the nest took sudden fright and abandoned ship. I managed to coax them off the pavement into the garden and safe shelter, with the adult birds clucking alarm calls. A mistake. I should have left well alone. I just hope they survive.
Monday 28 June 2010
Another lovely dry hot sunny day with temperatures around 29 degrees C. This morning a surprise find in the garden – a pristine white mushroom some five centimetres across. I usually associated fungi with damp conditions. The location, under the Big Fir, is a favourite place to find them, and I’ve seen them in this exact spot before. Then about a foot away, the remains of a Blackbird’s egg shell. The Snapdragons are in bloom, looking excellent – lime yellow, purple, white, orange. Brilliant displays continuing from the Cardinal Rouge Clematis, Compassion Rose and the Honeysuckle on the pyramid. The scent of the Honeysuckle on the still night air is sublime. And a lovely display of New Dawn roses.
Friday 25 June 2010
The little Wren is still in the garden and singing. I’ve also heard an unfamiliar bird song the past few days, I’d love to be able to identify it. Several warm balmy calm evenings this week with the twilight lasting till past eleven, Honeysuckle scent in the air, the moon in the south and Bats flitting around the chestnut trees.
Tuesday 22 June 2010
At last a warm sunny day making it pleasant to sit out in the garden. This morning I heard a Wren singing in the woodland area. I stood silent, and what was clearly a young Wren perched on a branch only a couple of feet away, tail cocked in the air, singing so loud for a tiny scrap of bird. She flitted from branch to branch, all around me, as though to get a closer look at this strange new occupant of her garden. She must be from this year’s brood. The self-set Borage is in flower, many plants in the south border. And our New Dawn rose has produced some lovely blooms, despite having fallen away from the fence and only a shadow of its old vigour.
Friday 18 June 2010
My experiment with the solitary remaining Daisy in the lawns is working. It’s in a plant pot. Free from the competing grass, it has grown well; lots of flowers; and it seems to be spreading. My plan is to divide the clump eventually and replant in the lawn. This must surely be a unique experiment. The Gooseberries are ripening fast, and seem like another bumper crop this year. Redcurrants are also looking good. They never fail.
Wednesday 16 June 2010
Interesting to note this morning that, so far, Ena Harkness rose is showing no sign of black spot on the leaves. Completely clear. I wonder whether the hard frosty winter has killed off the spores. It is a sickly plant, with no obvious reason apart from the black spot. Desperately needs to put on a lot of new healthy growth. The Grape Vines are in full leaf now. Bird life in the garden is very quiet these days.
Tuesday 15 June 2010
The Compassion rose is now in bloom. It has formed an arch over the top of the frame. All the roses are now in bloom. Peonies have faded. Still a bit too cool to be pleasant sitting out in the garden.
Monday 14 June 2010
Still unsettled and changeable weather. Cool. Yesterday a young Pigeon found its way on to the ledge of the study window. I didn’t see it arrive or leave. So at least one brood of Pigeons has fledged. The new lawnmower was delivered today. I’ll assemble it tomorrow, and use it with much greater care in the longer grass.
Friday 11 June 2010
Continuing cool, dark, with some drizzle. The cover provided by the Russian Vine along the top fence is quite remarkable. It’s now a thick green blanket. I’m surprised it doesn’t seem attractive to birds for nesting and general shelter. Perhaps because there aren’t any branches as such. The Squirrels never try to climb here, so there’s less Squirrel threat. Odd. The Gooseberries are swelling. My spraying of the smaller bushes seems to have at least slowed down the caterpillar attack which was stripping the leaves. Rapid growth everywhere in the gardens in this weather.
Thursday 10 June 2010
Dark, cloudy rainy June. No incentive to gardening. I noticed today how the Ena Harkness rose is so large and beautifully formed – a perfect rose. Yet because of its sheer size and weight it’s droopy, looking at the ground. A pity. There seem to be more Squirrels around, small ones. I think they are from a new brood this year.
Wednesday 9 June 2010
Dull, fairly mild with more showers on the way. Compassion rose now has two half-open buds. They look a bit undernourished. I wonder if my use of wormery liquid feed, with its high nitrogen content, has encouraged the remarkable stem and leaf growth at the expenses of the flowers? It remains to be seen. The little patch of unmown lawn looks like a wildflower meadow, which it’s supposed to be. A single self-set red poppy is in fleeting bloom. The Antirrhinums will soon be in flower.
Tuesday 8 June 2010
A rainy gloomy dark day. Two of the older bush roses are in flower. Peace, and Queen Elizabeth. Peace particularly is a lovely rose. I learnt today that the lawnmower is not worth repairing, so I will have to buy a new one. There is something fundamentally wrong when it’s cheaper to scrap than repair. Goods should be made in repairable-friendly way. There is one huge deep mauve bloom on the Cardinal Rouge Clematis, and other buds soon to be in flower. It’s a remarkable flower, must be three inches or more in diameter.
Monday 7 June 2010
It’s turned cooler, cloudy and showery. I mowed the lawns at the weekend, so a heavy shower yesterday was timely for the grass. Unfortunately, our lawn mower broke down and needs to go in for a repair. A Blackbird is still busy nest building in the woodland area. All the herbs on the front border are doing well – Hyssop, Marshmallow, Southernwood. All the ferns are now looking vigorous and attractive. Yesterday I checked out the wormery and cleaned the sump. It has produced copious quantities of liquid feed, which I’m sure has contributed to the remarkable Hostas leaf growth this year. A few pale pink New Dawn roses are in bloom, and a single Ena Harkness.
Wednesday 2 June 2010
Much warmer and sunnier. The garden generally has a green luxuriant look. Bird activity this morning is curiously subdued. Lots of snails out on the paths, which might hopefully tempt a Thrush. The Aquilegia display is lovely. All the shades of colour from white to deep purple, and such tall elegant plants. The Russian Vine along the top fence is growing rampantly and has now totally covered the unsightly corrugated iron. The Grape Vines are in leaf, and the first Ena Harkness rose is almost at bud-burst.
Tuesday 1 June 2010
June starts on a dark rainy but slightly warmer day. A brief walk round the garden. The lawns need mowing urgently, as soon as the grass dries. The Redcurrant and Blackcurrant bushes already have well-formed berries, as do the Gooseberries. The Hostas are all luxuriant and splendid in the woodland area. I saw a Coal Tit at the bird table this morning, attacking the seeds.
Monday 31 May 2010
May ends rather cold and cloudy, after the lovely sunny warm few days a week ago. The Peonies have put on a good show as usual. They do surprisingly well tucked away along an unforgiving north facing border. Chives almost out. Globe Artichoke growing vigorously, but I never seem able to actually harvest anything edible from this plant, sadly. I saw a jar of pickled artichokes in Sainsbury’s last week and wondered why I can’t grow them. The self-set Borage plants are all doing well. Just a shame the garden today is a bit too cold to sit out for long.
Friday 28 May 2010
The Ena Harkness rose has survived and one bud is close to opening. The leaves look healthy, so far, but there aren’t many, and I expect the awful black spot to return before long. This has proved to be a sickly rose. In contrast, on the other side of the arch Compassion is growing vigorously, and is extending gradually over the top of the arch and down the other side. No buds in sight yet. New Dawn on the north fence is a sorry sight, brought down by the broken fence which needs replacing urgently, but also just sickly looking. It may manage a few blooms. Once a prolific and beautiful pink rose.
Thursday 27 May 2010
My rescued Daisy plant has produced a new flower. It’s a bit silly bothering about a Daisy I suppose, but I really miss them in the lawns. I’m not sure whether my attempt to stop the little green caterpillars eating my Gooseberry leaves is working. For several days I’ve been watching our friendly Blackbirds gathering nesting material and flying off into the woodland area. It seems a bit late for nest building.
Wednesday 26 May 2010
I’ve dead-headed the Cowslips which have been over for some time. They gave a brilliant display this year. The Lady’s Smock has faded. Peonies still not in flower. Lily of the Valley have been a bit disappointing this year, with too much leaf and too few of the white droplet flowers. Maybe this is a result of too much use of the worm liquid feed, which is high in nitrogen and thus favours leaf growth. This may be affecting other plants as well. The Chives are nearly in flower (on the sunny front they are flowering now) and are also more leafy than usual, though this is really a bonus since I use them mainly for edging.
Tuesday 25 May 2010
A cooler breeze today and much cloudier skies herald the end of a few warm summery days in May. I noticed this morning that the Gooseberry bushes are being attacked again and gradually stripped of leaves. I really mean stripped. Last year one bush was shorn of every leaf, with just bare stalks remaining. For some reason the big Gooseberry bush which provides nearly all the harvest wasn’t affected. The culprit, which I saw again this morning, is a small green caterpillar. There has been no alternative but to spray all the bushes in an effort to halt the defoliation. Remains to be seen how effective. The Aquilegias are in full bloom. It’s a delight how many shades of colour appear, from pure white to a deep purple and all variations in between. I’ve rescued the one solitary Daisy plant in the lawn, potted it up, and hope to see it thrive so I can replant in the lawn. Strange! Not very long ago the aim was to eradicate every Daisy that dared appear.
Friday 21 May 2010
Still warmer today, though it’s not forecast to last beyond the weekend. But gather ye rosebuds ….. All the summer garden furniture is out. Last night the Bats and Swifts put in another appearance in the evening. Sitting quietly on the top garden seat this morning, a Blue Tit was searching all the fruit bushes and trees. I thought at first it was a Kingfisher, the blue tail was so bright. Two Blackbirds also came very close looking for worms in the soil. And a Squirrel, which looked like a juvenile. It’s surprising what you see when you just sit quietly and watch.
Thursday 20 May 2010
Warmer again today. A pleasant evening yesterday. I saw a Swift for the first time this year; and a Bat as the light faded. Both welcome sights. The single Daisy in the lawn has also made an appearance. Many years ago, before I was fully organic, I used some chemical which sadly eliminated the Daisies in the lawns. Big mistake. But one has survived, and I shall see what I can do to propagate from this single plant.
Wednesday 19 May 2010
At last much warmer today, though a cooling breeze. For the first time this year I uncovered the Chimera and lit a small fire to re-cure it. I found a bird’s egg, broken, on the soil in the top garden close to the Gooseberry bush. Looks like a Blackbird’s. I wonder how it got there? Noticed there is evidence of nest-building in one of the four nesting boxes in the Russian Vine along the top fence – bits of nesting moss near the entrance hole. But I haven’t seen any birds here lately; a Wren was in this area a week or so ago. Maybe the nest has been abandoned. The Rhubarb is growing strongly, with an extra couple of crowns now, and has more than recovered from the forcing.
Friday 14 May 2010
Still dry but chilly. The forecast is returning to more seasonal warmth next week. I planted a few mixed Antirrhinums this afternoon at the top garden. We’ve begun to call this area the Vine Grove. It’s getting an old cottage garden effect, with Sweet Williams and now Snapdragons. One of the joys of spring gardening is the reappearance of familiar self-set plants. Borage seedlings are now abundant. All five Hostas are growing well. Peonies not yet in flower. I watched a Robin drinking from the bird bath this morning.
Monday 10 May 2010
A fairly bright and cheerful Monday morning in the garden, a bit chilly out of the sun, but less cold than the past few days. The Lady’s Smock, or Cuckoo Flower, is in full bloom. A lovely reminder of Maytime meadows. It won’t be long before the Chives flower. There’s a lot of them along the edges, so they make quite an impact. Bluebells are out, under the Big Fir. I hope this little cluster will thrive and multiply for next year.
Thursday 6 May 2010
Cloudy and cool. Just a bit too cold to make it pleasant to sit out for long. There was a brief noisy kerfuffle at the top of the trees this morning. I think it was Magpies raiding the Pigeon’s nest. The Pear blossom has gone over, and the blossom on the old Apple tree is a lovely white and pink Comfrey plants are growing vigorously. I shall cut them back soon and add the leaves to the compost bins.
Wednesday 5 May 2010
Not quite so cold today. The Aquilegias will soon be in flower, and the Lily of the Valley and the Bluebells – including the Bluebells I transplanted under the Big Fir. It would be nice to establish a little cluster of Bluebells here for next year. I’ve bought another little side table for the top garden seat. Need to locate it on bricks. This area of the garden had become a very pleasant peaceful spot in which to relax and ponder.
Tuesday 4 May 2010
I bought another Hosta yesterday. Summer Breeze. It’s now planted in the shady woodland area with the other five Hostas which are all growing well. The luxuriant foliage of these plants is just right for this location. May has started with a really cold spell.
Friday 30 April 2010
The Lady’s Smock are just starting to flower. This is the Cuckoo Flower. All four Hostas are growing well. This location, with dappled shade, seems to suit them despite needing regular watering because of the soil dryness under the trees. I’m tempted to get another variety to fill a gap here. Pulling more forced Rhubarb today. The Cowslips are starting to go over, after a wonderful display this year. Tulips still in full bloom in the top garden. April showers today on the last day of the month.
Wednesday 28 April 2010
I’m pleased to see that the Cerastium I planted two years ago in the front garden border has survived. It’s a silvery-leaved plant with white snowy flowers. I spotted a tiny off-shoot, which I’ve transplanted to the top garden, close to the bird bath. It’s encouraging to discover plants surviving and thriving. The two Lady’s Smock plants I moved a couple of days ago have both been disturbed, probably by Blackbirds. I’ve firmed them in again. Move hand weeding of the lawns this morning. Mainly Dandelions. I like Dandelions, but control is essential in a small garden. Hopefully I can achieve this without using weedkiller chemicals.
Tuesday 27 April 2010
A lovely still warm evening. I sat on the top seat and simply enjoyed the evening. A Wren seemed interested in me. Flitting around, from the Russian Vine to the Honeysuckle and back to the Vine. Such a loud song from a tiny bird. There must be a nest close by. I don’t know where. Then our friendly tame Blackbird was around, busy, unconcerned at my presence – even when I walked by while it was on the ground. Chatted to our next door neighbour this morning over the garden fence. She reported a Heron visiting their pond, and a Woodpecker around. I think that’s the bird with red on the back of its head and a slight tuft that I couldn’t identify a few weeks ago. Woodpeckers are much smaller birds than I imagined.
Monday 26 April 2010
I’ve transplanted the two new clumps of Lady’s Smock close to the main cluster, which is a sunnier spot. They had survived the winter, but only just. The Hostas are growing well. And so far free of snail or slug damage. No Bluebells in flower yet.
Friday 23 April 2010
Sunny again, and signs that warmer days are on the way. The Perennial Wallflowers are coming into flower, with that delightful scent. The Honeysuckles look healthy, and the Clematis. I’ve been feeding the Gooseberries. I’m sure that regular feeding at this stage contributes strongly to a good crop. No Bluebells out yet, apart from the early Scillas, which are quite different to the common Bluebells. So evocative of spring.
Thursday 22 April 2010
The wormery continues to work very well. It gives about half a litre of liquid feed every day or two. I’ve used it today, dilutes as usual, to feed the Gooseberries, and many of the plants around the garden that are now growing fast. The Lovage has shot up. The stems are now about two feet high. Another dry sunny bright day, but a chilly breeze still.
Wednesday 21 April 2010
I pulled the first stems of my forced Rhubarb this morning. An excellent crop from this really vigorous plant. A lovely bright morning, but crisp – I should say cold. Found another Pigeon’s egg under the Big Fir. It was in tact, apart from a small puncture. The Tulips are at their peak. The display on the front is lovely: white, red, orange & red, yellow & purple. The Daffodils have faded, and all the Snowdrops have passed. Nice to see the Muscari. The frosty nights lately are affecting the Aloe Vera on the patio, so tonight I will bring it back indoors.
Tuesday 20 April 2010
A real pleasure to see Rosemary blossom on one of the potted plants. I love that pale blue misty colour. The potted Hydrangea is also doing well with plenty of healthy fresh green leaves. I think it ought to be transplanted soon into open ground now the plant is clearly well established. The Chives plants along the paths at the top garden are looking splendid. They make such a brilliant edging plant.
Monday 19 April 2010
All four Hostas are now through and showing strong new shoots. No sign of slugs or snails yet, but it has been dry for over a week. I will need to take precautions. Cowslips still in prime of bloom.
Friday 16 April 2010
The second patch of Lily of the Valley, under the Vines, is throwing up plenty of shots and id clearly thriving. The main patch is about three inches high. I noticed this morning that the Russian Vine has responded to my feeding and watering with a boost new leaves. This year should see a splendid dense cover. But no further evidence of nests.
Thursday 15 April 2010
I was delighted to discover this morning that the single Muscari plant I rescued last year is in flower. Many years ago we had many of these interesting spring plants, but gradually we lost them for no obvious reason. This welcome survivor had been hidden from view until today behind a gladiola plant.
Wednesday 14 April 2010
The Peonies on the north-facing border have shot up, and are now standing about eight inches high. The Lily of the Valley bed is looking fine, and my Lady’s Smock has thrown up the flowering stems. The Cowslips this year are really magnificent – tall stems and copious flowers, a delight in the Spring garden.
Tuesday 13 April 2010
I’ve moved the perennial Wallflowers to a sunnier position in the top garden. These plants are successful cuttings from a single plant I bought two years ago. The forced Rhubarb is looking excellent – pink and red stems with yellow leaves still under the black plastic bin. They’ll be ready for pulling soon. The Russian Vine is coming into leaf, but no sign of any recent nesting activity. This is that time of the year when growth simply explodes in the garden.
Monday 12 April 2010
Yesterday I heard a furious kafuffle around the Berberis Juliana bush. There’s a Blackbird’s nest in the bush. The Blackbirds are unusually fearless when I am gardening on the front, unconcerned at my presence. Looking from the window I spotted the cause of the Blackbirds’ alarm: an intruder trying to attack the nest. It was certainly a bird of prey; a Kestrel I thought, or maybe a young Sparrow Hawk. Slate grey with a buffish breast, a shade bigger than a Blackbird. I suppose one shouldn’t intervene, but I rushed out and shooed the predator away. It flew off and circled. But within a few minutes it was back again, accompanied by furious clattering from the Blackbirds. Out I went, and it flew off again. This happened once more, and then things settled down. Perhaps I should have let nature take its course.
Friday 9 April 2010
Another lovely Spring day, though starting to cloud over a bit later. I sat with the warm sun on my face, listening to the bird song. I started thinking how wonderful and amazing bird song is. The phrase ‘Silent Spring’ is so dreadful. Birds sing without any musical training, they don’t have written music, orchestras, various instruments or lyrics. The song has evolved down the countless ages, part of the natural heritage. The message I get is beware if you want to mess around with the delicate fragile balance of the natural world.
Thursday 8 April 2010
A glorious Spring day, much warmer. I heard, and then saw, that bird again in the Russian Vine. It’s a Wren. The alarm call of the Wren is surprisingly loud for such a tiny bird. I’m not sure it’s nesting in the Vine – more likely somewhere nearby. The Aubrietia is coming into flower. I fear the Salad Burnett has succumbed to the hard winter.
Wednesday 7 April 2010
I wondered this afternoon if there is a potential nesting bird thinking of taking up residence in the Russian Vine along the top fence. As I approached, an alarm call started, something like the Blackbird’s, but different. I shall watch for developments. The Lovage stems are now about eight inches tall – a beautiful contrast of bronze and a vibrant green. The Peony shoots are also growing strongly. The garden is beginning that tremendous surge of Spring growth.
Tuesday 6 April 2010
A fine dry day, and the first lawn mowing on the front this year, plus a liquid feed. The front garden looks nice, the Tulips are in bloom, and Daffodils, with a few Scillas along the driveway. I did a more drastic lower cut than the textbooks recommend for the first of the year. Because of the hard winter, there has been less winter grass growth this year, so a low cut shouldn’t shock the lawn and produce browning, as is usually the case. Our really tame Blackbird came down and sat on the lawn as I rested while mowing. I removed the winter cover off the top garden seat today. Visions of sunny days sitting in the garden soon.
Thursday 1 April 2010
Today I made my own bird food block. It’s whole peanuts embedded in a block of accumulated fat from the grill. I melted the fat, and shaped it using a yogurt carton. I’ve placed it in the mesh box on the bird table. Took a few more photos of the spring garden this morning; Cowslips, Lovage shoots, Euphorbia, Arabis and Daffodils. I planned to mow the front lawn, but a light shower has postponed this first cut of the year.
Wednesday 31 March 2010
The six clusters of Lady’s Smock (or Cuckoo Flower) are growing well in the top garden. Two of them, the ones I divided last year, are small but have survived the hard winter. I’m keeping all these plants well watered – they prefer moist soggy soil. The only Snowdrops remaining in flower are the group of bulbs I planted very late ie about three weeks ago. They have come on much better than I anticipated, and should be fine for next year.
Tuesday 30 March 2010
The weather is cooler and cloudier, but Spring moves on. Hyacinths are now in bloom, and more Daffodils. One Bluebell is out, at the top of the garden by the small sest. And Cowslips looking lovely. Violets – wild, self-set, are a welcome reminder that Spring is arriving.
Thursday 25 March 2010
I trimmed part of the Box bush this morning. This bush stands about twelve feet high. It’s difficult to do a proper clipping all over, which is really needed. I also went all round the garden trimming off dead stems. I pulled several long rose stems close round the arch. The many Aquilegia plants are now in strong growth. Daffodils are in flower in the front garden, taking pride of place from the Snowdrops which have at last faded.
Wednesday 24 March 2010
Today I started the job of replacing the two damaged sections of fencing on the north side. I cleared away the broken pieces, pulled back the New Dawn rose which was supported on this fence, and tidied up the garden border. The Bluebells are coming on. I think I’ll transplant some to the woodland area. No further sighting of the Wren.
Tuesday 23 March 2010
The milder weather last week has led to a growth spurt throughout the garden. Everything has started to move into forward. The lovely bright green shoots of Chives are a welcome sign of spring. I use Chives as a border plant.
Monday 22 March 2010
Three daffodils now in bloom. I was sitting quietly on the seat at the top of the garden this morning when I saw a Wren darting about. First Wren I’ve seen in the garden for a long time, though they were common once. He was unusually tame – perching on branches of the Pear tree very close to me. Then he flew off into the Russian Vine, where I now have four nesting / roosting boxes. He approached one of the boxes very closely. I hoped to see him enter, but then he flew off to the Firs. Hopeful signs we may have a Wren nesting in the Russian Vine this year.
Friday 19 March 2010
The spring-like weather continues, though today is cloudier. I noticed this morning that the new bronze shoots of Lovage are just pushing through. It’s a lovely tall plant, with the scent of celery. Our very tame Blackbird hangs around. His mate has a nest close by I’m sure, in the Box I think. I was looking in the woodland area, and there he was, two feet away on a branch, completely unconcerned at my intrusion. The Cowslips are almost in flower.
Tuesday 16 March 2010
A glorious early spring day. Sunny and mild. I’m amazed to find that the Snowdrop bulbs I planted two weeks ago today are growing remarkably well, and four are already in flower. The bulbs had been lifted last autumn and then forgotten in the garage. So in two weeks they have caught up with the Snowdrops – still in flower – that have been in the ground all winter. I wonder if this is some sort of record. The Daffodils are not out yet, but one or two more Crocuses are in flower; yellow, purple and mauve.
Monday 15 March 2010
Nearly stepped on a Toad this morning. At the top of the garden, he was basking in the warmish March sun. I shouldn’t be surprised to find an adult Toad, after all the little Toads and Frogs around last summer. I’ve found a bird’s egg on the ground in the woodland area. Intact, as though it had just been placed on the ground. It’s pure white, and I reckon it’s a Pigeon’s. Not much information in bird books about egg identification. Probably to discourage interest. The bird table has been busy this morning, with Starling, Robin, Blue Tit and Blackbird. The Blue Tit sampled all four varieties of food on offer. Yesterday two Pigeons alighted on the Holly bush in the front garden, obviously attracted by the many red berries.
Thursday 11 March 2010
Spotted a Robin this morning at the bird table, attacking the peanuts. First Robin I’ve seen for a long time.
Wednesday 10 March 2010
Another dull cloudy day. I’m surprised how often I see the Blackbird feeding at the bird table. Not actually on the flat table top, but perched precariously on one of the wire food holders. Blackbirds usually feed off the lawn. Coal Tits have been at the peanuts again today, quickly grabbing one and flying up to the Big Fir. I’ve been aware for a while that deep under the Box tree in the woodland area is a shallow depression in the leaf debris on the ground, which looks very much like a place a wild creature – a Fox – has been regularly resting. I haven’t spotted a Fox in the garden for some time.
Tuesday 9 March 2010
Cloudy again, milder but still cold. This morning on my walk round the garden I spotted the tabby cat lurking in the woodland area. Lurking with intent, so I shooed him away. A couple of the Florence strawberry plants have survived. I need to remake the strawberry bed.
Monday 8 March 2010
Cloudier, a bit milder, but still dry. This morning I witnessed a most prodigious leap by our Squirrel. He was on the bird table, which is about even feet off the ground. I noticed he was very still and attentive. Then I saw why – the black and white cat was on the lawn, at the bottom of the pole, looking up longingly at what she thought might be her next meal. Nutkins would have been perfectly safe just waiting till she gave up. But he was evidently nervous. Then suddenly the Squirrel made an enormous leap, landing safely on the coal barn roof. Easily ten feet – equivalent to about a fifty foot jump for a human I would say. He simply took off and flew through the air. Cat was left bemused, and walked away, while Squirrel quickly disappeared into the next garden. I’ve move another bird box from the patio where it has had no takers to the Russian Vine. There are now three Des Res’s in the Russian Vine. The Cowslips have survived the frosts well. I’ve counted at least fifteen plants,
Friday 5 March 2010
A lovely crisp sunny early spring day. I moved a few single Snowdrops this morning from various odd spots in the garden to group them together with the small lawn clumps. Now have six small clumps in the lawn, giving a grand total of nineteen altogether. Should give a nice display in 2011. I think all the Rosemary cutting have survived the frosts. Surprising really, but good news. They will soon be producing those lovely misty blue flowers. The Bluebells are through, about two inches high. Chives are just showing. I’ve placed a second nesting box in the Russian Vine at the top fence. It was in the garage. It would be nice to have nests in either of these boxes.
Wednesday 3 March 2010
It will be an interesting horticultural experiment to find what happens to the very late planted Snowdrop bulbs. A very cold and cloudier day. Starlings, Wood Pigeons, Blackbirds, Blue Tits, and Dunnocks at the bird table. I’ve decided to cut the Grape Vines down to a stump. Hopefully they will produce shoots this year, and then possibly grapes next year. As it stands, they are taking up far too much garden space. The Buddleia may get the same treatment.
Tuesday 2 March 2010
A bit of gardening, after suffering from a cold for a week. Second day of lovely dry sunny blue skies weather. A welcome start to March. The first yellow crocus is out, and many of the pale mauve variety, which I always think are throwbacks to a wild sort. The snowdrops are still in full splendour. Looking around the garage, I found the forty odd snowdrop bulbs I lifted last autumn, then didn’t get round to replanting. Surprised they were in good condition, all with healthy shoots, but hopelessly late of course. Nevertheless, I’ve carefully planted them, and it ought to be possible to save them. Whether they will bloom this spring remains to be seen. Lifted the black upturned box from the Tradescantia. Delighted to find it looking in good shape with green foliage. Looks like I’ve avoided the frost damage which almost wiped it out last year. I’ve put the box cover back on, since the nights are still frosty. Similarly removed the black plastic bin from the rhubarb and gave the emerging pink and white stems a few hours of sun and fresh air. I’ve bought a few first early potatoes, Rocket, and put them out to chit in the middle bedroom. The first time I’ve tried Rocket. We shall see.
Friday 26 February 2010
A dull day after rain overnight, but the occasional glimpse of sun – giving a hint of April showers perhaps. After getting used to seeing Starlings feeding on the Peanut Feast – a fatty slab of peanut pieces and seeds – this morning two Blackbirds, one male and one female, spent a lot of time feeding there. It’s rare to see Blackbirds feeding other than on the ground or in bushes. There’s no doubt this Feast is a winner. Plus it’s enclosed in a wire cage which stops the Squirrels running off with it. I might get another one.
Wednesday 24 February 2010
Brief sunshine and a milder day, after several days and nights of snow and hard frost. The snowdrops are still coming into bloom, and all the clusters look brilliant. Starlings at the bird table this morning, and the Blue Tits. The days are lengthening now.
Thursday 18 February 2010
A cold damp cloudy day. Just by chance, I spotted a new bird visitor to our garden – a Goldfinch. I saw it perched on the fence, just long enough to identify beyond doubt, with black and red around the head. Starlings at the bird table again. I did a bit more pruning on the front; this time the Firethorn, which was obscuring the view of the variegated Holly from the house.
Wednesday 17 February 2010
A pleasant change in the weather. Today is bright and sunny but still cold. That spring sunshine, pale but promising spring. Starlings, Blue Tits and a Robin feeding at the bird table. A new fat composite block with seed and nuts is proving popular. I did a substantial bit of gardening this afternoon. Tackled pruning the Berberis Juliana, which was leaning over the snowdrop border after the heavy snow earlier this year seemed to change the shape of the bush. Then I tidied up the snowdrop clusters. The Soapwort had encroached and had got tangled with them. Yesterday I created two more small snowdrop clusters under the Big Fir. They will hopefully give a nice renewed display next year, but look good even now. Including the two lawn groups, I now have a total of seventeen snowdrop clusters. I like them. Squirrels very active in the sun today. They retrieved and ransacked a string bag of peanuts I had put for the birds on a thin branch of the Dawn rose bush. Very little is safe from them. Checked the wormery. The worms are very active despite the cold. I added more kitchen waste to both middle and top trays.
Monday 15 February 2010
Dull cloudy cold day. Several Dunnocks around the garden. They seem to have replaced the once numerous House Sparrows. Dunnocks used to be called Hedge Sparrows; they are a bird I’m still a bit surprised to find in the garden, but they are very welcome. More Snowdrops have appeared in the lawn. I planted more than I recall. They are dotted around rather than the clumps that are more impressive. Blue Tits feeding at the bird table this morning.
Tuesday 9 February 2010
A brighter day, but still cloudy and cold. This morning I saw a squirrel in the front garden, for the first time I can recall. Daffodils are now pushing through. More snowdrops appearing in the lawn. I’m tempted to transplant a few snowdrops from one of the clumps to the lawn near the Big Fir while they are in bloom.
Monday 8 February 2010
A dark cold day with snow flurries on an east wind. A cheerless garden. The only signs of hope are the clusters of snowdrops. The Big Fir creaks and groans as it strains in the wind. A solitary Blackbird disconsolate in the lower branches, feeling too miserable to bother flying away as I approach. Yet spring can’t be far away.
Friday 5 February 2010
The snowdrops are coming into bloom late this year. The little cluster I planted in the lawn is looking nice. I really must expand this planting, including under the Big Fir. No sign this morning of remnants of a Fox supper. I think the incident I heard last night was several gardens away. Little holes all over where the Squirrels have been burying and retrieving food. The Peony shoots are through, but no sign yet of the Lovage.
Thursday 4 February 2010
Early this morning the bird table and the hanging peanuts were ambushed by Robins and Blue Tits. Also another unidentified bird which I think was a Siskin. After dark today there was a spell of unearthly squawking and squealing. I wonder if the foxes have claimed a victim.
Wednesday 3 February 2010
A damp dark day but not so cold. A brief walk round the garden. I had a look at the wind-damaged fence section. It has been completely destroyed. Once the larch-lap structure goes, the entire section collapses. Another section is damaged but not beyond repair. I tidied up the loose planks. As soon as the weather gets a bit more amenable I’ll get this job tackled.
Tuesday 2 February 2010
Milder, breezy and rain. The squirrels are active. This morning there were three squirrels in the garden. The days are very slowly lengthening, but there is little incentive to work in the garden.
Monday 1 February 2010
A glorious winter’s day. Hard frost, blue skies, bright sunshine. Hoar frost on the grass, the soil is bone hard. The water butt is frozen so hard I couldn’t break the thick ice. Yet it’s warm enough in the direct sun to get the terracotta garden thermometer up to about 3 degrees Celsius, when the temperature must be a couple of degrees below freezing. Lots of Blue Tits flitting around the Big Fir.
Friday 29 January 2010
A dark bleak early morning today after overnight rain. The garden is not very inviting. Walking round the garden I considered the need to sort out the buddleia. It has grown horizontally, getting entangled with a redcurrant bush. A retaining stake has broken and the branches are obstructing a side pathway. Not sure whether to cut it right back to the ground, or maybe take cuttings and then remove it entirely.
Thursday 28 January 2010
Just plain cold today, but with occasional sunny spells. I did my first bit of gardening in 2010 this morning. Just lightly forking over the soil where the Angelica used to grow. There are lots of little Angelica plants there now, self-seeded. I will save one or two, and transplant them to a more suitable place, at the top garden. The lawn snowdrops are gradually appearing. I ought to have put many more in. I’ll do that this year. I thought I planted a couple of snowdrops under the Big Fir, but there’s no sign yet. The variegated Holly in the front garden still has masses of red berries. Looks very attractive. The birds – mainly Blackbirds – have stripped the berries from the adjacent Firethorn, but left the Holly untouched. This morning five male Blackbirds were on the lawn under the birdtable. One was particularly aggressive, chasing the others off. Yesterday late afternoon two squirrels were around the peanuts on the bird table.
Wednesday 27 January 2010
Bitterly cold again. I emptied the kitchen waste bin into the compost bin at the top of the garden this morning. And the kitchen caddy to the top tray of the wormery. Despite the cold, the worms seem remarkably active. The production of liquid feed continues. I fed a diluted solution to the large gooseberry bush, one of the redcurrants and the rhubarb.
Tuesday 26 January 2010
Bitterly cold in the garden this morning. I was surprised to see a Blackbird perched in the lower branches of the Big Fir tree, motionless, and unconcerned at my presence. As though he was too cold to bother. I walked around the tree, he still didn’t fly off with the Blackbird’s characteristic clatter alarm call. A Squirrel appeared, scampering along the fence and up into the tree. The Blackbird wasn’t going to get excited about squirrels either. I really ought to be out starting pruning and tidying up jobs, but it’s difficult getting motivated these bleak cold days.
Monday 25 January 2010 Burn’s Night
Cold, dull and dry after overnight rain. I’ve noticed the last few days, despite the cloud, that the days are just starting to lengthen – almost imperceptibly. The first sign on the journey to midsummer. Many snowdrops are in the white ‘globule’ stage of flowering, but none yet fully open. They seem a bit late this year, and in slow motion, but a very welcome appearance.
Friday 22 January 2010
Another dark day, rainy, but milder. I watched our Squirrel turning his nose up at bread on the lawn put out for the birds. His sole interest is in peanuts and the coconut mixture on the bird table. The Wood pigeons have no such qualms, and can quickly hoover up the bread. The Squirrel has developed a routine of climbing up to the bird table, which is about seven feet high, eating a nut or two, then swiftly down the post and a scamper along the length of the garden path, into the woodland area, and back again to the bird table. There’s loads of pruning and general tidying work to be done, when the weather is more amenable. I had another close look at the two grape vines this morning. Not sure what to do. They occupy a lot of space, produce grapes which rarely ripen, and are quite invasive of space. I’m tempted to prune them both right back, but concerned this drastic action might kill them off.
Thursday 21 January 2010
Cold, but not quite so cold as yesterday. Pleased to see the snowdrops coming through in the lawn and in front of the Box tree, where I have been ‘naturalising’ them. I ought to extend this feature again this year. I saw a Blue Tit at the top of the garden this morning.
Wednesday 20 January 2010
Suddenly bitterly cold, again, with dark heavy skies. The garden is not a very welcoming place these days. I restocked the bird table with peanuts and bread, which the Squirrel has been attacking all day. A Magpie was on the lawn looking for food this morning. They are handsome striking birds.
Tuesday 19 January 2010
Much milder, a damp cloudy dull sort of day. Several snowdrops are in the white globular stage. I noticed that the rhubarb crowns are showing the first signs of new growth. I’ll need to cover them soon – the forced rhubarb last year was delicious, and we still have some pink sticks in the freezer. The severe frosts don’t seem to have done much damage to plants. The ‘mind you own business’ bank has been blackened, but it’ll recover. Bird song and activity is getting stronger. Just the very first hint of the days beginning to draw out.
Monday 18 January 2010
The snow has gone, apart from one or two tiny pockets. Strange how the garden landscape changes, swiftly returning to the familiar scene. No snowdrops in flower yet, but many of the clumps are pushing through and the first bloom won’t be long. Our Squirrel is active, raiding the bird table peanuts with a regular almost automatic behaviour pattern.
Friday 15 January 2010
A thaw has set in, the snow is still around but receding. A fine drizzle this morning. Yesterday I put a half coconut filled with food mixture on the bird table, and a new wire cage to hold bread, cakes, biscuits and other food scraps. Plenty of Blue Tits after the peanuts, but outdone by our Squirrel. Really very tame. He’s smallish, a young creature I think. I cleared the snow off the garden table. Slipped on a brick at the top of the garden, only just saved myself going down.
Thursday 14 January 2010
A very cold night, but this morning there are signs of a slow thaw in the garden. Snow still quite deep – four inches or so – over much of the garden. I replenished the bird table with a large supply of peanuts yesterday. I’ve seen Blue Tits raiding the table and flying off into the Big Fir with peanuts. No Robins seen recently, and no evidence of Fox tracks this morning.
Wednesday 13 January 2010
More snow this morning. A very fine powdery variety. Still very cold, minus 5 Celsius on the garden thermometer. I added more kitchen waste to the wormery. A brief walk round the white garden. I checked the Russian Vine for any previously unseen birds’ nests, now the leaves have fallen. Just the Blackbird nest I know about. I will be surprised if there aren’t any nest building activities here soon, when Spring arrives. The Vine is now quite thickly intertwined, an ideal nesting site, which is probably tricky even for the squirrels to invade.
Tuesday 12 January 2010
A slow thaw is underway, very slow. Which is the best sort of thaw. One snowdrop has pushed through the snow, not yet in flower. Evidence this morning under the Big Fir of a nocturnal foxy meal. A few long black bird’s feathers. Look like Magpie’s or Crow’s. A foot think ice block is floating in the water butt. I noticed a split terracotta flower pot, newly cracked. I had forgotten to close the sump tap of the wormery, so there is a half bowl of liquid. Not frozen, curiously. It shows that the worms are still active, and indeed still alive. The terracotta thermometer at minus five degrees C. A few brown coloured areas of snow – possibly fox urine, I should imagine. The delights of the winter garden.
Monday 11 January 2010
The garden remains in the icy grip of winter, with snow some six inches deep still in places. A brief walk round the garden today. Fox tracks are evident, though not as many as I expected. Blue Tits feeding at the bird table, and a Squirrel.
Friday 8 January 2010
Another heavy snowfall on Wednesday, plus extremely low temperatures, has made the garden inhospitable and I haven’t been to look apart from out the study window. The familiar Fox tracks continue. This morning I saw a flock of Blue Tits. The wind today has been blowing clouds of powdery snow from the tall trees. Truly a wintry scene, and set to stay for some time according to the forecasts.
Monday 4 January 2010
Another bitterly cold blue day. There was that frost smell in the crisp air – is it ozone? Hoar frost on the grass, the bare earth crunchy underfoot. A real pleasure to take a brief walk round the January garden.
Friday 1 January 2010
An exhilarating walk round the garden on a bitterly cold but sunny blue New Year’s Day. Snowdrops are pushing up in the lawn and the borders. I spotted that the Peony shoots are also through. The Lady’s Smock looks fresh and green anticipating the Spring. More Fox evidence at the top fence, where the soil has been very recently disturbed, at the spot where Reynard gets underneath the fence. I wonder if he has a den nearby. There’s plenty of secure hiding places here.
Wednesday 30 December 2009
Dark, rainy and very cold all day. No snow. Last night about eleven I heard our Fox again, on the prowl, his eerie calls getting louder then fainter as he wandered about the neighbourhood.
Monday 28 December 2009
The snow has now gone. It was still around on Christmas Day, so counts as a White Christmas surely, even without the single snowflake falling, which seems a silly definition. I haven’t seen out Fox again, but certainly heard him late on Boxing Day. At midnight, an eerie intermittent animal call in the garden, moving around, then fading into the distance. Cold and bright today. I spotted the first snowdrop, pushing through the grass on the lawn. The garden has a wintry desolation look. Is more snow on the way?
Wednesday 23 December 2009
This morning, at 0650 am, in the darkness I saw our Fox in the garden. He was hunting for food beneath the bird table, and at the nearby upturned bin lid. He obviously hadn’t spotted me at the kitchen window. He then trotted around the garden in the snow, disappearing into the woodland area. I walked round the garden later, and followed his tracks in the snow up to the top fence and under the gap in the south corner. Later in the day I made a short video of the gardens and nearby trees in the snow. It was especially good to see a Song Thrush at the bird table. The Dunnock was back, and I saw an unidentified bird in the small fir, looking like a small crow. A Jackdaw? The snow is still here today, although a slow thaw seems to be setting in.. This has been a prolonged cold spell.
Monday 21 December 2009 Shortest day
The snow is still here, and more has been falling today. This is a prolonged cold spell. The birds are at risk, and I have been putting more food out for them, including bread and cakes fried in oil. I’m sure I spotted a Dunnock, or Hedge Sparrow as we used to call them. It was feeding at the upturned bin lid on the lawn where I have been putting out various foods. The garden is white over. The snow may even stay till Christmas Day. We will then have the dreamed-of White Christmas.
Friday 18 December 2009
The snow arrived overnight, six inches and more. From the study window the unmistakeable footprints of our Fox, right up to the side door. I traced them up to the top of the garden, but it wasn’t clear how he entered; probably jumped up the fence. I’m sure he’s a regular visitor, but the fresh snow provides proof. Then the bird table became like Piccadilly Circus, after months of general neglect. Robins, magpies, blackbirds, blue tits, coal tits, greenfinches and squirrels all after the extra nuts, broken biscuits and bread I put out. The red berries on the Holly really shine out against the pure white background. I suppose the snow will vanish long before Christmas Day.
Thursday 17 December 2009
Pleasant winter sun in the bitter cold this morning, after a light dusting of snow. More snow forecast for tomorrow. The Ivy continues its climb up the trunk of the Big Fir tree, and up the larch-lap fence.
Wednesday 16 December 2009
Still bitterly cold, and a brief snow flurry this morning which soon turned to rain. The garden thermometer was at minus 7 celsius mid-morning. I surprised a squirrel near the top fence. I found myself talking to him: ‘Aren’t you supposed to be hibernating?’ The creature stared at me for a second or so, then ran the whole length of the side fence towards the Big Fir.
Tuesday 15 December 2009
Bitterly cold - cold enough for snow. The terracotta thermometer at the top of the garden is reading minus 2 celsius. A huge crop of red berries on the variegated Holly in the front garden. Surprisingly, it’s next to a Firethorn which has been completely stripped of berries by Blackbirds mainly.
Monday 14 December 2009
Cloudy and cold with drizzle by the evening. Snow might be on the way. Another white button mushroom is pushing through, close to the last one, which is still there. I’m amazed to see mushrooms in cold December. Under the Big Fir are two excavations that have appeared overnight. One has exposed a large root. Must be a fox at work. The holes are far too big for squirrels. The wormery is doing fine.
Friday 11 December 2009
Cloudy, cold and a bit foggy, after a sunny day yesterday. I saw a squirrel running along the fence top this afternoon.
Wednesday 9 December 2009
A dull but dry and slightly milder December morning. The garden is just damp – soggy – after all the rain. A quiet walk, nothing particular. Sometimes the garden is like that.
Tuesday 8 December 2009
I found another cluster of fungi directly under the Big Fir tree this morning. Not the white mushroom variety; these had the greyish slightly translucent cap I have seen before. It seems clear that by leaving the area under the Big Fir undisturbed, with its accumulation of pine needles, I have created a sort of mini-habitat. I imagine it is quite acid soil. I also find that because of the various bird species that frequent the tree, there are various unexpected plants growing in the mini-habitat beneath.
Monday 7 December 2009
Rain continues, every day. This morning a squirrel scrambled across my window. Once upon a time squirrels were supposed to hibernate during the winter, we were told. Not any more apparently. The mushroom near the Big Fir is about the same size, a small button. I’m surprised it has lasted so long.
Friday 4 December 2009
Lovely early morning walk in the sunny frosty garden. The terracotta thermometer shows -3 degrees C. I paused under the Big Fir; a small brown bird alighted on a branch close by. Like a robin in manner and appearance, apart from the red breast. It stayed around, friendly. Possibly an immature robin. I was pleased to see that the Russian Vine on the top fence is now so thick it hides the corrugated iron eyesore even without leaves.
Thursday 3 December 2009
Showery, cold and dull. Walking round the garden, I try to get a few ideas for developing the wildlife garden concept. I need to get rid of the old Berberris in the woodland area. This might allow an interesting change. A new woodland path? The Big Fir was creaking again this morning. I think it may be branches rubbing against each other high up. The new white mushroom is still there, protected from the squirrels by chicken wire. It hasn’t grown much, which is hardly surprising these very cold days and nights.
Wednesday 2 December 2009
The frost yesterday has done for the Dahlias. The leaves and stems are blackened, the flowers gone. That they survived into December is itself remarkable. The Lady’s Smock plants seem to be thriving, and I look forward to a springtime display. There are six clumps. I have kept them watered and in slightly boggy conditions. They are essentially a plant of damp meadows. Cold in the garden today, but the frost has gone. Still showery, April in December.
Tuesday 1 December 2009
A seasonal start to December. Hard frost overnight, and a delightful morning walk round the garden, dry and bright, with that frosty air smell. I brought the tender patio plants indoors yesterday, and covered the Tradescantia with newspapers and an upturned crate. Squirrels out on the fences. Pondering changes I could make to the garden in the new year. The cross path has become overgrown and impenetrable, so this needs sorting. Not sure the best way to prune the Blackberries.
Monday 30 November 2009
November ends wet and cold, though there is a bit of blue sky this morning, with a cold NE wind. I discovered another white cap mushroom pushing through, near the Big Fir tree. I’ve covered it with wire mesh to keep the squirrels off, in an effort to allow it to grow and release spores for more mushrooms next year. It would be good to be able to gather and eat them as a garden crop. A really odd rather weird sound from high up in the Big Fir. An intermittent low creaking, groaning, drumming sound. I first thought it was a Pigeon making strange noises. Then it seemed like the creaking of ship’s timbers. Is the Big Fir shifting due to all the rain? Doesn’t look to be leaning. I hope not.
Friday 27 November 2009
Dry, bright, cold. I checked the wormery this morning. Plenty of worm activity. It is a really brilliant way to use kitchen waste, and produce liquid feed and compost. I added more waste to each tray. I’m tempted to get a second unit. Noticed that a couple of the Cowslips are in flower, in a feeble way admittedly. Need to replace the fence panel wrecked by the storms.
Thursday 26 November 2009
Another bright November morning, and colder. The Russian Vine along the top fence has lost nearly all its leaves. The birdbox is now visible. I wonder if it will attract any residents in the spring? It is really a prime location, difficult I think for even the squirrels to access. But will any birds realise that?
Wednesday 25 November 2009
A welcome return this morning to more typical November weather – sunny, cold, dry. No frosts. Hopefully the windy rainy spell is coming to an end. The second crop of mushrooms on the lawn has now faded and will soon be just a dusty trace. I shall watch closely next year for another crop, which I really should harvest. The Dahlias are clinging on. I must get the delicate plants into shelter soon.
Tuesday 24 November 2009
Recent weather has been about rain, rain, high winds, but no frosts yet. A bit unseasonal. The strong winds in the past week have wrecked one of the fence panels on the north border, and damaged another. I shall have to replace both with new panels. The garden has a wintry look. Leaves blown everywhere. Remarkably the Dahlias have not yet been blackened by frost, in fact both bronze and mauve varieties remain in flower.
Monday 9 November 2009
A very cold morning, with fog and close to a frost overnight. The terracotta garden thermometer showed 2 degrees C. I checked the mushrooms. The first one has now disappeared. It simply collapsed and decayed into a patch of brown dust – presumably the spores. I’ve covered them with some worm compost, to encourage more mushrooms next year. The others are still showing white caps. They look a bit out of place on a cold November morning.
Friday 6 November 2009
My autumn walks around the garden are enjoyable. I’ve always liked November, so the November ‘atmosphere’ in the garden is a bonus. There are now another two mushrooms close to the new one I discovered near the picnic bench. They are the same variety, white caps, not quite button mushrooms, but opening into a flat cap. We’ve found mushrooms around here in previous years. I’ve also remembered that a few years back I discarded a packet of mushroom spawn in this area. I’d forgotten. Maybe the present flush is related. Leaves are falling everywhere. Still no first frost. I must make sure I get the delicate plants indoors or protected.
Tuesday 3 November 2009
After stormy days the mauve Dahlia bloom had a broken stem this morning. So I cut the stem and brought the single bloom indoors. It’s huge, not quite the size of the yellow variety, but some six inches diameter, and a beautiful mauve shade. I found another white mushroom pushing through the lawn near the picnic table. Like the first, I’ve protected it with chicken wire, and surrounded both mushrooms with worm compost, hoping to encourage spores to carry over to next year. The squirrels are still active, scampering over the lawn this afternoon.
Friday 30 October 2009
As Hallowe’en approaches signs of a weather change to more typically October; windy and changeable with rain on the way. The new mushroom is taller – a thick stem is visible, and the protective wire netting has kept foragers off and the cap is still complete and remains white. It looks to me like an ordinary field mushroom. I’m hoping it will scatter spores for a crop next year. There also many small toadstools around on the lawns. Another mauve Dahlia flower almost in bloom. I noticed this morning that two of the Cowslips are in flower, Unusual timing. The garden is now very much autumnal, with falling and fallen leaves everywhere.
Wednesday 28 October 2009
Remarkably, the Dahlias are still in bloom. The bronze and yellow have now just been joined by a very late flowering of the mauve variety. This was grown from a tiny tuber that struggled even to get started into growth. Luckily there have been no frosts yet, and today has been remarkably mild for the end of October. Otherwise all the dahlias would have been cut down into a blackened tangle, and no mauve would ever have been seen. The Michaelmas Daisies are over. This morning I spotted a fresh white mushroom, under the Big Fir tree, by the fence. I think it is an edible variety, but I’ve protected it with wire netting and watered it, in the hope of spores for next year. I took advantage today of the dry warm spell to maintain the Wormery. I’ve harvested the lower tray of compost, and placed the empty tray on top. It is usually necessary to remove the remaining worms by hand individually, but it isn’t a difficult job. The Wormery is really flourishing. It produces regular copious quantities of liquid feed, and the other two trays are writhing with worms. I washed out the sump and rescued a few worms that had fallen in. Leaves are falling and many trees are half-bare of leaves. Squirrels active. A lovely autumn day in the garden.
Tuesday 29 September 2009
The Michaelmas Daisies are in flower. These plants thrive best in the shade, and they are growing in a quite secluded spot shaded by Honeysuckle, Blackberry brambles and Buddleia. There’s not sign of mildew this year. Tell-tale broken snail shells on the path are welcome evidence of Thrush activity. The garden is now in autumn mode; it’s the last taste of summer. The bronze Dahlias are truly magnificent, so many blooms.
Thursday 17 September 2009
Still a magnificent autumnal bronze display by the Dahlias in the south border. There has been increased bird activity in the garden lately, especially Robins and Great Tits. There are a few bunches of Grapes on the Vines, just small green fruits with no chance of ripening. The last week or so has been dry and cool. There is a parched look about the garden. The first Michaelmas Daisy in bloom.
Monday 14 September 2009
Yesterday I found a dead bird on the lawn. It was a Starling. There was an obvious bite incision on its neck Not really the sort of mark left by a cat, and I’m wondering if it was a Magpie attack. I’ve now harvested the last of the pears and apples. An excellent crop this year. The days are noticeably cooler now as autumn proceeds, with just the occasional warm sunshine.
Friday 11 September 2009
Yesterday early in the morning I spotted the two young Blackbirds feeding on the lawn. Also, at the same time what was unmistakeably a Thrush joined them. A slightly smaller bird than a Blackbird, and with Thrush-like plumage that is clearly different to the immature Blackbird. Autumn moves on apace. There are a few bunches of grapes, green and growing, but with no hope of ripening before the colder shorter days of October. The yellow and bronze Dahlias are in full prolific bloom. This morning I found a few conkers on the side path, with Squirrel bite marks.
Tuesday 1 September 2009
While I was busy picking the last of the Blackberries this morning I heard loud rustling in the dead leaves on the ground. It was an odd-looking bird, partly black, partly brown, a bit mottled here and there, and tamer than usual, unconcerned at my presence. Like a Thrush gone wrong. Then I spotted another near the pile of logs and twigs in the woodland area. I was pleased to see the birds appreciating the value of my wood piles as a source of insects and food. These odd birds must be the two young Blackbirds I saw a week or so ago when they were being fed by a mature Blackbird. The Squirrels are very active in the Big Fir today. Are they thinking of storing food for the winter?
Monday 31 August 2009
Dull and overcast in the morning on the last day of August. Sun promised later, but looks a bit unlikely. I noticed half a conker shell at the foot of the Big Fir. Looks like the squirrels are feasting on the conkers from a neighbouring tree. No sign of the tiny frogs. I suppose they are rather bigger now, and are probably seeking more secluded places in the garden than basking in the Aubrietia. Magpies chattering away this morning.
Friday 28 August 2009
More rain and wind. A third Dahlia is now in bloom – it’s also a yellow cactus sort – I think it is a tuber broken off from the main plant when I reset them in the spring. Two more plants to flower still – they must be the two new tubers I bought this year. The Michaelmas Daisies are not in flower yet. Still some Redcurrants on the bushes. It’s surprising how long they stay fresh. The birds have had some, but there are still plenty left.
Thursday 27 August 2009
August is ending wet and windy. A disappointing summer, again. The nights are drawing in, it’s dark by around 8.30 pm. Hoping for an Indian Summer. The number of days when it has been pleasant to sit out in the garden has been few. More Blackberries ripening, and I’m still waiting to pick the Apples. An excellent Pear crop, large and sweet fruits.
Wednesday 26 August 2009
A blustery wet spell, not really pleasant for late August, but quite mild. The Hosta So Sweet is still in bloom. The flowers on long spikes are a lilac colour, similar but larger and more decorative than those of Hosta August Moon, which finished flowering several weeks ago. It’s been a good year for my Hostas, I’ve kept the slugs and snails away. Hosta Big Daddy has been a bit slow to put on growth, but it is in deeper drier shade, as is Hosta Halcyon. I’ve used most of the yellow Dahlias for cut flowers, and now waiting for another flush of blooms.
Tuesday 25 August 2009
The site of the Angelica plant which I removed this summer at the end of its two-year life is covered in self-set small Angelica seedlings. Most of them I’ve removed as weeds, but I will keep a few to replace the old plant. I’ve also kept several of the large dried seed heads in the garage, either to feed to the birds or as seed. I really need a new site for the next Angelica. They are gigantic plants, dramatic and fantastic, but I didn’t really realise the space needed when I planted it next to the New Dawn rose. This may be responsible for the poor results this year from New Dawn.
Monday 24 August 2009
This morning I noticed the first signs of flowering in the Ice Plants. I’ve forgotten the correct name. Just a pale mauve colouring starting to appear. The Michaelmas Daisies look healthy this year after several years of grey mould attacks, but no evidence yet of imminent blooms. A sort of quietus in the garden, between high summer and autumn. Immature Blackbirds around, which is a good sign of a successful breeding season for them. They are often quite tame and unconcerned about humans.
Friday 21 August 2009
It’s quite surprising what you see fleetingly in the garden. This morning a Magpie flew over the garden, closely pursued by two Pigeons. The three birds flew high into a neighbouring Horse Chestnut tree and nothing more was see or heard. Commonly it’s the Magpie in pursuit. Another big harvest of Blackberries. They are really sweet and delicious. This year’s crop is the best I’ve had. I’ve been lighting small fires each evening after dark in the new clay chimenea. The purpose is to ‘cure’ the clay.
Thursday 20 August 2009
I’ve trimmed the Berberis Juliana on the front garden border. This large bush grows rapidly, and soon overhangs the pavement with its very long spines. Bought a clay chimenea to enhance our outdoor sitting areas on what I fondly hope will be pleasant autumnal evenings soon. It’s a touch of Mexico.
Wednesday 19 August 2009
A hot sunny day. Not many of these this summer. I stood quietly at the top of the garden. A Blackbird was perched on the pyramid where the Honeysuckle grows. I thought he was after the bright red berries of the Honeysuckle. No. The Blackberry brambles intertwine with Honeysuckle. He grasped a whole blackberry in his wide open bill, pulled it from the bush and flew off to the Big Fir. I just stood and smiled. The Blackbird and the Blackberry.
Tuesday 18 August 2009
Getting warmer and close today. I think we can expect a thunderstorm soon. The Michaelmas Daisies aren’t in flower yet, nor should they be in August, though the buds are formed. I’ve neglected the solar lights in the garden this year. Several have been mainly in the shade and are not lighting. I’ve transferred them today to the south border in an attempt to recharge the batteries. The herbs in the front garden borders are in flower and looking attractive – a bit straggly and wild, but that’s part of the idea. Hyssop, Marshmallow, Bergamot, Soapwort, Southernwood, Comfrey.
Monday 17 August 2009
I found a disused wasps’ nest in the loft yesterday. It’s truly amazing how these creatures are able to construct such intricate and geometrical forms. The garden is looking decidedly high summer. A bit overgrown, well past the growth flushes of Spring and Summer, and seemingly preparing for Winter shutdown. We brought a single yellow Dahlia bloom into the house yesterday – just one bloom in a vase. They are an amazing saucer-size this year and look stunning.
Friday 14 August 2009
I spotted one of our little frogs this morning when I was uncovering the top garden seat and setting up the little side table. It’s the first day this August when it’s been dry and warm enough to sit out with a cup of tea. Just by the side of the garage I noticed there a curious new hole dug in the lawn – conical, and unusually neat, excavated to a depth of about four inches. I wonder which creature? Yesterday we enjoyed a bowl of freshly picked Blackberries from the garden, with cream. They’re delicious. It’s an excellent crop this year, after the failure last summer.
Thursday 13 August 2009
I need to dead-head the yellow Dahlia. The flower heads are enormous, and tend to hang down. The recent showery weather and general dampness seems to have caused a bit of rot underneath the flowers. The second flush of Compassion rose is under way. The new growth has been straight up, from the top of the arch. It’s difficult to train these shoots back without risk of breaking the soft stems. Perhaps a job for the late autumn or winter even. My little friendly frogs have been absent now for a few days. I hope they haven’t all fallen to a predator.
Wednesday 12 August 2009
Two of the Cowslips are in flower. The second flowering this year. I tasted the Blackberries this morning. They are large, sweet, delicious. Success, after last year’s crop failure. Redcurrants are still on the bushes, and have not gone over. I just need more freezer space to harvest them. The little Dahlia plant that struggled from a small wizen tuber is doing quite well. No flowers yet, and only about eight inches high if that, but growing well. At least this tuber should be good for next year.
Tuesday 11 August 2009
Found one of my nesting boxes on the floor in the woodland area. It had been fixed to the trunk of a Fir tree. It was securely fixed, I thought. I was surprised to find a nest inside. Regular checks when it was in situ on the trunk never revealed any signs of nesting. The hole size is for Blue Tits. How it got on the ground is a mystery. I suspect Squirrels. I’ve put the box back on the tree, wedged between trunk and branch.
Monday 10 August 2009
This morning I noticed the first fall of apples from the old Apple tree, which I believe is a James Grieve. Two apples on the soil under the tree. Both eaten into, about a fifth of the total apples gone. The damage doesn’t look like birds pecking. I wonder. The second Dahlia is now in full bloom, with lovely bronze - coloured flowers reminiscent of the older Chrysanthemum varieties. They are almost as large as the six to seven inch diameter flowers of the yellow Dahlia. Both are large cactus types. The Blackberry crop is superb this year. They need picking very soon.
Friday 7 August 2009
Torrential rain yesterday evening and into the night. August is heading for a third washout in three years. Fine however if you are laying a new lawn. Walking around the garden this morning I came across a largish white egg close to the Big Fir. A Pigeon’s egg I think. There was a small neat round hole in the shell, and it had been emptied of its contents. I wonder who the culprit was. I suspect another bird, using its beak. Possibly a Magpie.
Thursday 6 August 2009
Warm, humid with heavy downpours now and then. The garden looks greener than usual for high summer. The lawns need cutting. There are a few tiny fungi appearing in the lawns, which is hardly surprising given the conditions.
Wednesday 5 August 2009
A warmer day, though quite dull and rain promised. There is certainly an autumnal feel to the garden. No more mushrooms or other fungi yet. The Buddleia is almost over. The top garden looks rather overgrown and untidy. To some extent perhaps I try to cram too much into the available space.
Tuesday 4 August 2009
A dull rainy August morning. August seems destined to go the same way as July, and as the Augusts of the past two years. It’s a pity. A nice crop of apples on the Old Apple Tree. Not bad really for a tree that is around eighty years old. And a decent crop of pears on the small, new Pear tree. It is supposed to have three varieties on the single stock root, but I think one of the varieties has taken over. Looks like the best pear crop ever. Rhubarb is ready for pulling again, after the fine forced crop earlier in the Spring. The second Dahlia is in bloom – just one flower so far. A nice autumnal red / brown.
Monday 3 August 2009
It’s always gratifying when someone takes an interest in your garden. At the weekend there was a knock on the door. A complete stranger asked if he could have a few leaves from ‘the yellow plant in your garden’. I immediately realised he was referring to the Rue, now in flower. It’s not a showy plant and the flowers are just like buttons, but it does have lovely blue-green lace-like foliage, and a strong scent which you may or may not like I explained it was used a long time ago as a ‘strewing herb’ in public buildings, to ward off unpleasant smells and the plague. My new friend said he came originally from Zimbabwe, and his wife from South Africa. They explained that in Africa the leaves of this plant are used for both an ointment, and to take internally. I cut a bunch of stems for them, and also offered a small seedling to plant. Rue does self-set freely. It’s not the first interest I’ve had in Rue. Friends from Mexico have also enquired about it.
Friday 31 July 2009
A disappointing July weatherwise; showery, coolish, no periods of warm dry sun. The August forecast doesn’t seem much better. Looks like we will slip into Autumn without much more of a summer. The Grape Vines have put on a lot of growth, after a late start, but there is little evidence of fruit setting and no chance of it ripening. Still waiting for the second Dahlia to flower. I’ve noticed that something is attacking the Hosta’s leaves. Till now, they had been pest-free. A few holes appearing, and chewed-off leaf edges. But they have been brilliant this year. The ‘So Sweet’ Hosta has still not flowered, but the long flower stems and buds are there, waiting for a bit of warm sun, no doubt.
Thursday 30 July 2009
The showery cool weather continues. Today there is even just a hint of autumn in the air, a slight chill almost. The Blackberry crop this year is succeeding, unlike the disaster last year when a sort of fungus took over and the berries seemed to wither. I haven’t picked any yet, but it won’t be long. A lovely display with the Bergamot – deep purple thistle-like flowers. I use the leaves to make my own Earl Grey tea. The Chives have all grown back from the severe cutting a few weeks ago, and are nearly ready to produce the second flush of flowers.
Wednesday 29 July 2009
I have neglected the Wormery, just adding kitchen waste occasionally, and doing little else. I noticed there was no liquid feed draining off when I turned on the sump tap, so a thorough examination was called for. The result has been good. The worms have quietly got on with their work. No apparent problems. All three trays have a healthy population of active worms. The sump contained plenty of liquid feed; the problem was a blocked outlet to the drain tap. I’ve used all the liquid feed, diluted with water 10:1 and applied it to as many plants in front and back gardens as possible. I think it is excellent, and at least partly responsible for the heavy crops of Gooseberries, Redcurrants and Pears this year. I washed out the sump, and fluffed up the compost in the two lower trays to aerate them. I need to remove and use some of the compost soon, and try to empty the bottom tray. One problem I have with my worms is that they seem reluctant to move up to the higher trays. I may need to separate and move them manually. But overall, the Wormery is a great success and a valuable addition to organic gardening.
Tuesday 28 July 2009
The yellow Dahlia flowers are indeed truly enormous. Over six inches diameter. There are now two in full bloom, with others on the way. The other Dahlia’s are not yet open. I watched the little froglets scattering as I approached their favourite haunt – the Aubrietia – this morning. One little fellow did a huge leap - and landed on his back. He quickly turned over, did another prodigious leap, and again landed on his back. I suppose frogs have to practice and learn their leaps. No Bats seen last night, though it was a cooler evening, and I didn’t stay in the garden till it was dark enough for them, maybe.
Monday 27 July 2009
Sitting quietly in the garden and watching carefully often brings surprises. On Saturday evening I did that, taking advantage of the evening sun. Now, I haven’t seen Bats flying over the garden for ages. Maybe five years or so. But as dusk descended, suddenly a Bat appeared with that unmistakable zig-zag flight. I waited and watched. The Bat returned for several fly-pasts. I shall look out again at dusk over the next few weeks. The Ena Harkness rose is in bloom again on the Arch – it isn’t thriving, but at least two lovely scented deep red blooms. Compassion rose on the other side of the Arch is going very well, and throwing out new growth with the promise of a second flush of roses soon.
Friday 24 July 2009
There is still just a single Dahlia bloom – but what a bloom! Six inches diameter, with brilliant yellow cactus spikes. The Borage is going over. These plants have again got the rust disease, but have managed to struggle on and put on a good display. I hope they set seed for next year, as I’m sure they will. Shasta Daisies and Feverfew in bloom still. I harvested another load of Gooseberries yesterday – 4 lb weight. They are at peak ripeness now, just about to go over. The Redcurrants hardly seem to get overripe – they just get plumper and juicier. Still many more to pick and freeze.
Thursday 23 July 2009
I dislike cutting down trees, but it really had to be done. It’s a self-set Elder, growing in the narrow gap between the garage and fence. It’s been cut back before, then quickly regrows with added vigour. I particularly like the Elder because of those lovely rich dark red berries, good for the birds, and for making wine. At the moment I’m cutting it down to fence level. I will need to take the own lot out if I’m serious about getting rid of it. Actually, a cutting planted in a better spot might be a good idea.
Wednesday 22 July 2009
This July dull rainy season continues. The growth of the Russian Vine along the top fence is phenomenal. I know it’s a vigorous plant, a ‘mile a minute’, but the speed of the spread is amazing. Of course, it’s what I need to cover the corrugated iron fencing, but I do need to keep it in check with trimming, otherwise it will soon take hold on all neighbouring gardens. I hand-train the new stems, weaving them into what I hope will be a tough impenetrable thicket which will encourage nesting birds. The birdbox I placed in this thicket a few weeks back has already disappeared. I doubt whether any birds will ever find it now. The crowds of tiny frogs are still jumping around. They like to hide in the Aubretia.
Tuesday 21 July 2009
A morning garden walk in summer rain. Not unpleasant. The first Dahlia bloom is out. Large yellow cactus. The struggling Dahlia plant is surviving, and doing quite well although just five inches high. The terminal growth was nipped off by some creature, but several new sideshoots are growing strongly. I don’t know why I bother about it really. There’s a pleasant scent at the top garden. Either the Buddleia or the Honeysuckle. Yesterday late morning there was a sudden thud on my study window. A bird had flown into the glass. It landed on the barn roof, and was obviously expired after a couple of beak movements. I went down and checked. It was a young Thrush, I think, which is a pity. Its neck was broken. I buried it under the old Apple tree.
Monday 20 July 2009 40th Anniversary of first Lunar Landing
A mushroom appeared yesterday under the Big Fir. I watered it since it seemed to be growing in parched ground. This morning when I looked, it had been uprooted, probably by a Blackbird or maybe our new Thrush. I replanted it, after examining the underside gills, which looked just like those of an ordinary field mushroom. There have also been a few little fungi around the lawns lately. There’s a new bird on the block. Still singing in the woodland area as I write. A piercing, loud, trilling song. I don’t recognise the song, and haven’t seen the bird yet.
Friday 17 July 2009
Thunderstorm and occasional showers. The Pears are growing well and look like a decent crop this year. Buddleia in full bloom with that heady, heavy scent which is slightly decadent, I don’t know why. I’m pleased to see the Michaelmas Daisies looking healthy after the mildew attacks of recent years. Alas I think they are not my pale lilac shade old-fashioned variety. The tiny frogs are everywhere in the top garden. Can’t be the two I rescued from the rainwater tub. Possibly from the pond in the next garden. I’ve seen adult frogs in the garden recently.
Thursday 16 July 2009
The Russian Vine has now covered the entire top fence, and is in flower. It really is an amazing plant, and has done a superb job of screening this eyesore. I do need to keep it in check now; it’s quite invasive and no respecter of garden boundaries. The Grape Vines have also put on a surge of growth, but there is little evidence of fruit setting yet.
Wednesday 15 July 2009 St Swithin’s Day
Two bags of Gooseberries are now in the freezer. It really is a bumper crop. There are many more to be picked. I also harvested the Strawberries and Blackcurrants today. Small crops, but so much finer flavour than shop-bought fruit. It didn’t rain here today, St Swithin’s Day, so we can anticipate a dry spell ahead.
Tuesday 14 July 2009
The Gooseberries are now quite ripe and are starting to fall. Need harvesting soon. The weather mid-July has returned to a showery, changeable, moderate sort, which is probably quite good for the garden. The transplanted Rosemary cutting, replacing the vacated Angelica position, seems a bit sluggish and unresponsive. I’ll give it a week or so, but one of the potted Rosemary cuttings might be more vigorous. I don’t know why.
Monday 13 July 2009
I’ve heard of frogs falling from the sky with rain, but yesterday I think I witnessed this. After on overnight shower, a tub I use to collect rainwater from the roof was partly full. Swimming in the water in the tub were two tiny frogs. One of them was hardly more than a tadpole with legs. The only was I can see they got into the tub was with the water from the roof. So there you are. I carefully emptied the tub at the top garden and they both jumped away. No doubt glad to have their feet on solid ground.
Friday 10 July 2009
I was watching a male blackbird in the garden today. It’s one of the pair that has been nest-building recently I think. He is quite tame, and never seems much alarmed that I am around. His main aim in life is to eat our redcurrants. His little ritual is to perch awhile on a nearby fence. Today it was the pyramid. When he judges it safe, he flies to a redcurrant bush and helps himself for about ten seconds. Then flies off, returning in a few minutes for more fruit.
Thursday 9 July 2009
I spotted another smashed snail shell on a stepping stone this morning. Our Thrush is still around. The Shasta Daisies look good. The Blackberry crop is heavy – but last year there was practically no fruit, all the berries seemed to ‘wither on the vine’ for some unknown reason. A bumper Blackberry crop this year would be nice.
Wednesday 8 July 2009
The lawns are still growing rapidly despite the cooler weather. They will need another cut soon. The Grape Vines have put on a big growth spurt. Probably due to those hot days. The only pruning I have done recently was to remove dead wood. The gardens have now started to acquire that familiar ‘high summer’ look and have lost the freshness of spring.
Tuesday 7 July 2009
The Marshmallow in the front garden has grown to around six feet, now with lovely white satiny flowers. I’m surprised that a plant preferring damp conditions has done so well given the recent heat. I suppose it has actually been quite humid. The Redcurrants are ripe and I must harvest them soon. They keep well in the freezer, as do Gooseberries and Rhubarb. Yes, they tend to loose their firmness, but that’s no problem for most culinary uses. Buddleia in bloom.
Monday 6 July 2009
A bit fresher and cooler. All the Dahlias are coming on well, including the tiny plant. The flower buds are visible and they may be flowering soon. It should bring a splash of colour to the south border. The predominant hue now is blue: Lavender and Borage. At the top garden the Shasta Daisies are in bloom. I’m still amazed at one of the smaller Gooseberry bushes. It has been totally stripped of leaves by those voracious little caterpillars, leaving the green fruits hanging starkly on the bare branches. A second flush of the purple Cardinal Rouge Clematis flowers.
Friday 3 July 2009
A light shower this morning and the heatwave is expected to end soon. I tasted the first strawberries today. There aren’t many, but an excellent flavour. I’m wondering how the early potatoes are doing – Charlotte. They should be ready soon. The front wall garden has done well in the hot weather. Thrift is in flower. Rue in the front drive looks brilliant with those yellow flowers set against the green-blue foliage. All the ferns are fine. I cut a percentage of the Chives right down to the ground a few days ago, and already they are growing back. A wonderful plant.
Thursday 2 July 2009
Another very hot dry day. I’ve watered the Dahlias copiously. The Lavender bushes are in bloom. So is the Hosta ‘August Moon’. I think it’s the first time I’ve seen it in flower. Lovely pale mauve hanging bells. On close inspection the Hosta ‘So Sweet’ is also throwing up a flower stem. It will be interesting to compare the blooms. It’s wonderful what you see in the garden if you sit quietly and still for a while. I’ve never noticed bees drinking before. I suppose it may be just this hot weather. All day there has been a stream of bees settling on the edge of the bird bath, and carefully taking a sip. I don’t mean just one or two. At least a couple of bees every minute, all day. And my pair of Blackbirds is building another nest, in the Big Fir I think.
Wednesday 1 July 2009
The terracotta garden thermometer hit 34 degrees Celsius today, which must be into the 90’s Fahrenheit. I have mowed the rear lawns and the garden looks much tidier. This evening, when it’s a bit cooler, I’ll cut the front lawn. The Dahlias are growing well. They visibly wilt by midday in this heat, so I’m watering copiously. The tiny Dahlia is surviving and growing, but is still very fragile and it must be touch and go. I’m not sure why I get so concerned about one tiny little plant. A really brilliant bumper crop of Gooseberries and Redcurrants. We are already eating both fruits in a fresh fruit salad with cream, and they are delicious.
Tuesday 30 June 2009
Another very hot day – ‘Phew wocha skorcha !!!!’ as a Sun headline would put it. Must be around 90 degrees F. I’ve transplanted a Rosemary cutting to the gap left by the late Angelica. There may be also enough space for a Euphorbia as an extension to the little rocky area at this end of the south border. I need to sort and replant the Snowdrop bulbs here using the plastic edging ‘corale’ I’ve been using. The potted Hydrangea is now in flower. Its leaves are now green and the plant looks quite healthy.
Monday 29 June 2009
A very hot day – almost 30 degrees C on the terracotta thermometer. I took the axe to the gigantic Angelica. The shears actually. I’ve saved four of the massive seed heads so I can have a replacement grown from seed for next year. But there are seeds everywhere, it must be a prolific self-setter. Need to decide how to fill the gap. Probably one of the Rosemary cuttings. Little black / green caterpillars have stripped a Gooseberry of every leaf, and made a good start on Redcurrants. It’s difficult to spray safely because of the fruit. The Gooseberry and Redcurrant crops are very heavy again this year.
Friday 26 June 2009
The Pear tree has a promising crop, but the Apple trees look decidedly unfruitful. A good heavy shower this afternoon which the garden needed. Feverfew plants are now in bloom with their daisy-like flowers. Unfortunately one of the Foxglove spikes has snapped off.
Thursday 25 June 2009
The Gooseberries are eatable, and so are the Redcurrants and Blackcurrants. I found another bit of evidence of our Thrush today – more smashed snail shells on a stepping stone. The lawns have been neglected and are badly in need of mowing. I’ve also left the wormery to fend for itself.
Wednesday 24 June 2009
A warm dry sunny day. I’ve decided to get rid of the declining Angelica as soon as the seed heads have ripened. It’s a biennial and I shall try to propagate by setting seed this year. It’s an impressive plant, but a bit too gigantic for the south border. Pleased to see that the weakest of the Rosemary cuttings has produced a tiny flower. If this cutting thrives, it will give a total of six Rosemary plants to replace the old bushes, the last of which I axed this year.
Tuesday 23 June 2009
The Borage is in flower. The blue flowerets are redolent of summer days. There are many more self-set Borage plants that have sprung up since I reduced the original number to ten. They need tidying. This is an amazingly prolific self setter – rather like Aquilegia, but more than welcome in the garden all the same. Pleased to see my little cuttings from the perennial Sweet William are actually growing. I neglect cuttings as a good way of propagation. I must try rose cuttings.
Monday 22 June 2009
I spotted a second Daisy plant on the rear lawn this morning. Odd to record this event, but for some reason daisies have vanished from the lawns. I suspect due to weedkiller application long ago when I was less green. So a welcome return. We have now passed the longest day of the year. It’s now back towards the depths of winter. But there’s a summer and autumn to enjoy before then. I’m thinking of axing the gigantic Angelica. It has gone to seed, with enormous seed heads, and the whole plant has turned a ghastly yellow. But I want to keep the seeds for the birds – and can I set some for next year I wonder?
Friday 19 June 2009
Clematis Cardinal Rouge is in bloom – impressive dark mauve flowers. The Dahlias are all growing well. A new tuber which seemed to have failed looks as though it has produced a small green shoot at last. The self-set gladiola-like plants have flowered, surprisingly, and look very much like Irises, with white and purple flowers. I will need to consult the books.
Thursday 18 June 2009
The New Dawn roses are now in bloom. Not very prolific this year, but as delightful as ever. I wonder if the Angelica which is growing alongside New Dawn has simply taken all the nutrients from the soil? The Angelica itself has turned an unhealthy yellow although the huge seed heads are a valuable bird food. I have read somewhere that Angelica is essentially a short lived plant, perhaps just two years. All the other roses are now in bloom, including Queen Elizabeth and Peace. Plus another whose name escapes me.
Wednesday 17 June 2009
After the very welcome return of the Song Thrush yesterday, I should add that a Robin has been around the garden for the past few days, after a long absence. These returns have led me to think about Hedgehogs. None seen or heard for - years. I wonder if it is possible to introduce a pair?
Tuesday 16 June 2009
This morning I spotted what I thought looked like a Song Thrush on the garden fence. I could hardly believe my eyes. I haven’t seen a Thrush in the garden for ages. They used to be such a common visitor. The bird flew down onto the ground, hidden by the big Gooseberry bush. I waited in silence for it to fly off so I could get another look. Then, I heard …. tap …. tap … tap. It was a Song Thrush! Smashing the shell of a snail on the stepping stones. I waited but didn’t see it fly away. When I looked behind the bush, there on the stepping stone were the shattered remains of a snail shell.
Monday 15 June 2009
I pruned all the deadwood from the Grape Vines yesterday. More of it than I expected, but plenty of new growth including grape clusters forming. The first Redcurrants have turned reddish-pink; there are ripe Blackcurrants and the Gooseberries are green and plump. The Foxgloves in the woodland area are in bloom. One is a whitish-pink; the other purple – both with the usual spots. A walk round the garden this evening after a shower revealed many, many snails everywhere. They are amazing creatures. At least when they aren’t allowed to feed on the Hostas and Dahlias.
Friday 12 June 2009
There are two specimens of a self-set plant in the garden which looks like a lily but has not flowered in the time since they appeared. I noticed today that they have both developed flower stems and buds. If they flower it may be possible to identify the plants with certainty. On further inspection, there are substantial parts of the Grape Vines that have cleared died. The branches snap off easily. I need to do some pruning. Nevertheless, there are plenty of new fresh strong spurs.
Thursday 11 June 2009
At the side of the garage is a self-set Elderberry shrub, which has been around for many years. I’ve cut it back every now and then, but if anything it comes back more vigorously than ever. This year it’s carrying a magnificent show of creamy white flowers. By the autumn they will form a welcome supply of black elderberries which the birds love. However, it is really in the wrong place, and I have cut out about a quarter of the branches today. Reluctantly, because it is a native species which is very wildlife-friendly. The question is whether to cut it down again completely.
Wednesday 10 June 2009
The Angelica is about eight or nine feet tall and has now set about a dozen large seed heads. I should probably remove them to encourage fresh leaf growth, but I think I’ll leave them and see if they attract birds. There is a very active flock of Blue Tits around the garden. They must be newly fledged. I would imagine the ripened Angelica seed heads would be welcome.
Tuesday 9 June 2009
Cool and cloudy again. I’m not sure what has happened to the Grape Vines. They are both growing, and have new shoots and leaves, but there are lots of dead branches. They really are dead. I shall have to get the pruning secateurs out. It may be a consequence of the very hard frosts in the winter. The Aquilegias are gradually going over after a fine display this year. Shasta Daisy buds will soon be opening.
Monday 8 June 2009
Cool and cloudy. The Hostas are doing really well. Excellent foliage. I noticed this morning that August Moon has produced a flower stem. No bloom yet. The Foxgloves are in flower having survived the onslaught of being eaten alive, probably by caterpillars so far unseen.
Friday 5 June 2009
A dark cloudy cool drizzly day. The smaller Gooseberry bushes have been attacked and stripped of many leaves. They have a good crop, but the gooseberries hang rather starkly. I’ve seen this problem in other years, and I’m sure it’s due to caterpillars. The trouble is they are very hard to find and remove. The large Gooseberry bush has a similar but smaller infestation. I suspect they are the same caterpillars that have chewed away at the Foxglove leaves. I’m surprised the Foxgloves have survived the attack, and just started to flower.
Thursday 4 June 2009
The hard work of the Blackbirds seems to have been in vain. No sign of them today. The half-finished nest in the Russian Vine has apparently been abandoned. A shame. I know birds do sometimes start several nests before deciding. What was the problem? Smoke from a neighbouring bonfire? Noise from a garden shed? Squirrels? Today I put in place a final section of trellis to extend the reach of the Russian Vine to the top north corner of the garden. And - perhaps triggered by the Blackbirds - I hit on the idea of fixing one of our nesting boxes in the foliage of the Vine. Why didn’t I think of this before?
Wednesday 3 June 2009
I noticed a Blackbird in the Russian Vine this morning. It must be the first time I’ve spotted a bird there, in what I’ve often thought would make an ideal nesting site. I sat on the side bench quietly observing the Vine this afternoon. Yes, a female Blackbird was making frequent regular visits to the spot, beak full of straws, leaves and bits of mud. A male Blackbird was perche4d nearby, occasionally in song. Sometimes he followed her on the missions, and once ventured into the Vine himself. While they were away, I confirmed there was indeed a proto-nest taking shape. It’s an amazing thing really. How patient and diligent these lovely creatures are.
Tuesday 2 June 2009
The ten Borage plants are growing well in the hot weather. My strategy of removing any leaves with the tell-tale brown blotches seems to have worked. The plants all look healthy and green. I’m wondering if the major factor is the weather. Perhaps the last two wet summers allowed the bug to flourish. It mat return, but now the plants look good. I’ve moved the Yuccas outdoors onto the patio to benefit from these sunny days.
Monday 1 June 2009
Another hot dry day after a hot dry weekend. The Compassion roses are now coming into bloom on the arch at the top garden. The Russian Vine provides a green backcloth to this display. There are three lovely crimson Ena Harkness blooms. They have a delicious perfume, but unfortunately due to the size and weight of the blooms they seem to hang their heads. New Dawn looks in an awful state. No roses, and a dry, yellowish sparse foliage. I wonder what happened?
Friday 29 May 2009
Warm and dry. The new Gooseberry bushes have started to fruit this year, for the first time. Just a light crop as I would expect. The big bush is cropping well. The fruit are already large and practically full size. But need to ripen before picking. Pleased to see the Marshmallow in the front garden border is looking fine. The Soapwort is rampant and I will need to give it some attention soon.
Thursday 28 May 2009
Much warmer and looks like the start of another dry hot few days at least. Surprised to see that the Charlotte potatoes have made fast progress – the stems are between 6 and 12 inches high. Parts of the Grape Vines look a bit inactive, while others have plenty of leaf. Not sure what’s happening.
Wednesday 27 May 2009
Another Dahlia has pushed up the first green shoot. There has been a bit more bird life in the garden recently. I saw Blue Tits at the feeder again. The Swifts overhead have – temporarily – disappeared. A Magpie was on the rear lawn this morning, quite an unusual sight. They are always chattering and squabbling noisily in the trees, never on the ground. Compassion rose buds will soon be opening. Ena Harkness has one large bud almost open, but is not looking very healthy – it suffers terribly from brown spot on the leaves.
Tuesday 26 May 2009
Welcome rain overnight. The garden needed it. I fed and cut the lawns at the weekend, and they are now looking better. Two Dahlias now have green shoots. The revived Busy Lizzie is growing well.
Friday 22 May 2009
More Peonies are in bloom. The Gooseberries look another excellent crop, as last year. In fact, it will be possible to harvest them next month I think. Last year I delayed harvesting a bit too late, and the fruit were slightly over-ripe, though still excellent for the table. They freeze well. Likewise the Redcurrant crop is quite advanced and looks heavy again.
Thursday 21 May 2009
The Lily of the Valley is starting to fade, and Lady’s Smock is almost over. No roses in bloom yet, but Compassion has put on lots of growth and is looking promising. New Dawn looks quite sickly. Sparse leaves and yellowish. Good to see the Rosemary cuttings in the pots actually in bloom – that lovely hazy blue.
Wednesday 20 May 2009
Calmer warmer day. The Borage plantlets are settling in, but I noticed a few leaves today with a brown powdery blotch reminiscent of the fungal attack last year which spoilt the display. I pinched the suspect leaves off and disposed of them in the Brown garden collection bin. I hope this doesn’t develop. I trimmed the Russian Vine along the top fence, where it had been growing over into the neighbouring garden, on top of a sort of shed. The single Peony in bloom is a lovely deep crimson red.
Monday 18 May 2009
The first Peony is in bloom. Despite neglect since they flowered last year, these plants are looking remarkably healthy. Sometimes neglect helps. It’s amazing that I even have to record that the first Daisy in the lawn is in flower. They are non-existent, just this single specimen, which is a great shame. I believe it’s the sad result of some chemical weedkiller many many years ago. The windy showery weather continues. Not much like May.
Friday 15 May 2009
The rain arrived overnight. Today has been dull with showers. The lawns already look better. The newly transplanted Borage plants seem to have survived the shock and look in good shape.
Thursday 14 May 2009
Still waiting patiently for the heavy rain that has been forecast. The lawns and gardens need it. No sign of rain by early evening. I’m pleased to see the Michaelmas Daisies growing well and looking far healthier in their new site by the Apple trees. They are, I believe, the maroon variety, not my favourite the pale mauve, which I think succumbed to a mildew problem last autumn. The Gooseberries are already quite advanced, about the size of a marble.
Wednesday 13 May 2009
At last the gusty wind has abated. I carried out lawn repairs today on the rear lawn. Several edges had lost grass due to overhanging foliage last year. I’ve reseeded them. The lawns need a few showers to freshen them up. The Bluebells are starting to fade.
Tuesday 12 May 2009
More work today on the south border. I’ve transplanted a second cluster of Borage. That’s a total of ten plantlets. I doubt whether they will all survive. This border looks much tidied now, though there is till a bit more work to do. Applied liquid feed to all the lawns. They look a bit dry and down-at-heel after this dry spell. But showers are forecast tomorrow. The Strawberries are in flower. I need to net them and devise a way of keeping the fruits off the soil.
Monday 11 May 2009
Still a stiff cool breeze, but dry and sunny. I managed to plant the two new Dahlias this afternoon, and check and replant the existing Dahlias. The south border looks much tidier already. I’ve created one small group of Borage, and planned the location for a second group. This means transplanting the self-set Borage plantlets, which have grown rapidly. Several birds in the garden whose songs and calls are unfamiliar. Spotted a couple of Gulls, probably carried inland on the strong easterlies we have had for over one week.
Friday 8 May 2009
Back to sunshine and showers with that cool gusty breeze still. Today I can record that the Aquilegias - Grandma’s Bonnets - are now in full bloom. As is generally the case, it seems to happen almost overnight. The fascinating thing about Aquilegias, apart from the amazing capacity to self-set, is the variety of shades of colour of the flowers. I have one plant, near the compost bins, which has flowers of pure white. There are various shades of pink up to a deep purple. The flower stems are tall, and being buffeted a bit by the wind.
Thursday 7 May 2009
The first sighting this year of Swifts over the garden has not been repeated today, so far. It’s always Swifts rather than Swallows we see. I’m pleased to see the Clematis Cardinal Rouge looking healthy and growing well. Last year it was suffering from wilting. The Bluebells are in full bloom. Only a small patch, and a couple of plants under the Big Fir, but a welcome sight.
Wednesday 6 May 2009
Still a blustery breeze, and a duller cooler day. However, today I spotted our Swifts darting and gliding on high. At least I thought I did. I had doubts. But doubts were dispelled in the early evening with another brief glimpse of a Swift – unmistakeable. Lady’s Smock is still in its prime.
Tuesday 5 May 2009
Warmer after a rather cool few days over the holiday weekend. This morning I spotted white fluffy feathers around the path. The usual telltale sign that something’s amiss. Indeed. By the fence under the Box tree in the woodland area, a scene of carnage. It looked like the remains of a chicken. Closer inspection revealed a decapitated pigeon, feathers ripped off and bite marks all over, but not torn apart. I suspected a Fox, then decided the villain was probably a cat. How would a Fox catch a pigeon? I buried the corpse and as many feathers as I could gather. The Lily of the Valley is now in bloom. Probably the best display we’ve had. And the Vines are at the bud-burst stage.
Friday 1 May 2009
May Day is sunny and dry with a blustery breeze. Disappointed to spot that the recent new leaf growth on the Busy Lizzie had been eaten away overnight. I wonder if the culprit was a snail or slug, or perhaps a Hedgehog? Hopefully it will recover. The Gooseberry crop looks promising. The green berries are developing rapidly. As are the Redcurrants. It’s a wonder that nature presses on in such a timely and orderly way. Nature never forgets to do this or that. Everything develops as it should.
Thursday 30 April 2009
A surprise this Spring is the survival and vigour of the perennial Sweet William. I always considered Sweet William’s annual flowers. The single plant is growing adjacent to the large Gooseberry bush, and is already in flower and perfume, attractive orange & red blooms. As an experiment, I’ve taken a few cuttings, to see if they succeed. I hope so. It would be a very useful plant to have along a border. This afternoon I found the broken shell of a bird’s egg under the Big Fir. I recognised it immediately as a Blackbird’s. How it got there is a mystery. Just fallen from a nest? Or, more likely, the result of Magpie or Squirrel predation?
Wednesday 29 April 2009
Today I tidied a small section of the south border. This border ought to be the showpiece of the garden, but it isn’t. Too often it looks untidy and an uncoordinated jumble. I transplanted one of the Borage seedlings, and separated several plantlets from the Ice Plant, to form a new group. Cut the two Comfrey plants down to the ground and composted them. Comfrey is a very vigorous plant, It thrives on being chopped right down, and will soon be growing high again.
Tuesday 28 April 2009
The Angelica is now about seven feet tall. And looking ever more outsize. The Candied Angelical was a success. A pleasant tasting chewy traditional homemade sweet. Grandma’s Bonnets are still not quite in bloom, but another warm sunny spell will probably do the trick. A few Tulips are still in flower. The white specimens in the front garden are particularly attractive. The self set Borage plantlets are growing. I ought to thin them out and transplant soon.
Monday 27 April 2009
Dull, rain and much colder. The Bluebells are just in bloom, including several under the Big Fir. All four Hostas have grown strongly. One of the Rosemary cuttings in a plant pot is actually in flower. That’s encouraging. Two Magpies arguing furiously at the top of the tree.
Thursday 23 April 2009
I discovered this morning the likely culprits shredding the leaves of the Foxgloves. Caterpillars. A Brownish – buff variety. Carefully examining the leaves also revealed a number of tiny snails which may be partly to blame. The damage is quite serious, with some entire leaves gone apart from the veins. I hope the plants recover well enough to produce flowers. The Apples trees are now in blossom. The Pear tree has been in blossom for a while. Another dry warm day with a bit more cloud than yesterday.
Wednesday 22 April 2009
There are dozens of self-set Aquilegias in the garden, in a variety of hues. The popular name for them is ‘Grandma’s Bonnet’, which is rather nice, if a bit ageist. They are a welcome plant, and generally I’m happy to accommodate them wherever they grow. This morning I noticed the first Aquilegia flowers just beginning to open, just a hint of colour. I put the third and final coat of varnish on the seat this morning. Heard again today a bird song that I don’t recognise. A short trilling song, like a shortened version of a Skylark.
Tuesday 21 April 2009
The first flowers are out on the Lady’s Smock. A delicate pink. This plant is sometimes called Cuckoo Flower, but I prefer the first name. Another lovely blue warm day. The Hostas are growing vigorously with no sign of snail / slug damage. But the two Foxgloves have been ravaged by an unknown pest. The top shoots have just about survived unscathed. I have sprayed both plants with an insecticide. I don’t want to lose these plants, so I shall discover the source of the problem.
Monday 20 April 2009
A glorious warm blue Spring day after a cloudy start. I decided to take advantage of the fine weather to varnish the top garden bench. The first coat is now dry. Before the painting I levelled the paving slabs supporting the bench. There are now clear signs the Busy Lizzie is starting to throw up shoots – it seems to have just managed to survive the winter frosts. The Russian Vine is quickly becoming clothed in leaves again. The lawns have grown long in the recent wet and warm weather. Need mowing soon.
Wednesday 15 April 2009
Harvested about half of the forced Rhubarb sticks, prepared them and put them in the freezer. An excellent crop. I will need to pull the remainder, just leaving a few sticks to avoid weakening the plant excessively. A pleasant sunny warm day. I took three cuttings from the Perennial Sweet William, which is already in bloom. A lovely scent. Whether the cuttings will take remains to be seen. There are lots of Bumble Bees around busy pollinating. More liquid feed from the Wormery on the large Gooseberry bush. The fruit is already starting to set. It’s clearly an early variety.
Tuesday 14 April 2009
The ferns have survived the hard winter, but they are all looking worse for wear. The Hart’s Tongue in the Shady Border looks particularly sorry for itself. Maybe too dry. A bit more work today on the border under the Big Fir. This is a problem; shady, dry. Not really sure what to do with it. Wildflower shade-preferring annuals? The forced Rhubarb needs pulling and harvesting. It’s starting to lift the large black polythene bin.
Monday 13 April 2009 Easter Monday
Easter this year has been dull and cloudy. A bit of sun broke through this afternoon. I took the opportunity to tidy the Shady Border, Pleased to see all four Hostas have emerged again after the winter: Halcyon, Big Daddy, So Sweet and August Moon. The only way I’ve found to protect them from the work of slugs and snails is slug pellets. They seem to like this location, though I have to make a special effort with watering in this shady but dry area. I repaired the old wooden bench, and cleared rubbish from the adjacent fence. The Aquilegias are looking good for an excellent display this year. I’ve not known a plant that self-sets so prolifically.
Friday 10 April 2009 Good Friday
The Easter holiday has started wet and dull. No incentive to do much in the garden today. All the Spring flowers are in full bloom, including a few early Bluebells.
Thursday 9 April 2009
A few light showers, which are welcome. The earth is fairly parched. The Angelica has put on a huge growth spurt. It looks like a Triffid, with a thick central stem rising about four feet and growing. I’m delighted with the Cowslips this Spring. A lovely display. The best plants have prolific flowers, a welcome dash of bright yellow.
Wednesday 8 April 2009
I’m pleased to see that the Aubretia I planted last year near the rose arch is showing new growth. It’s the ‘Hamburger Stadtpark’ variety. I dug it up today, removed a few weeds that were entangled, tidied the area and replanted. The Russian Vine is now in growth, with lots of new shoots. With the Blackberry Canes now gone from the northern side of the Top Fence, the Russian Vine will hopefully colonise the entire width of the fence. It did a great job last year hiding the unsightly corrugated iron fence. The first of the Bluebells are out, and a lovely yellow Tulip in the Top Garden.
Tuesday 7 April 2009
Spent some time today tidying the Peony border. The Peonies are growing quite well, but the bed had become overgrown with weeds. This is a north border, which gets very little sun, if any, but seems to suit the Peonies. Looks much better. They are not in flower, in fact I would think have several weeks to go. The Lilies of the Valley are doing well. I have kept them well-watered.
Monday 6 April 2009
No rain for a while, so the garden is quite dry. A pleasure in Spring is the annual reappearance of old favourite perennials. The Tansy clump is now throwing up the familiar light green shoots, with the distinctive smell when rubbed. They usually arrive for Easter – Tansy Apple is an old recipe. Spring also produces self-set seedlings. I found a patch of tiny plants which I think are Borage, which self-sets freely. I hope they are Borage. It’s such a delightful plant, with the blue hanging flowers.
Thursday 2 April 2009
Bright and dry, but colder. I heard an unfamiliar bird song this afternoon. The bird was perched high up a neighbouring Fir tree, but could not be seen. It was a loud, tuneful, warbling sort of song. Quite distinct from the Blackbird, but possessing the Blackbird’s full-throated intensity, if less varied. There seemed to be a responding similar call. I shall listen and watch and try to identify this bird. Generally, so far this Spring, apart from the Magpies, Crows, Blackbirds and Pigeons there has been a disappointing level of bird life in the garden.
Wednesday 1 April 2009
Sunny spells and still dry. I divided more Chives plants today, and used more of the Chives along the various paths. If I had to give the garden a name, it might be called ‘The Chives’. I use these versatile plants extensively. They are practically indestructible, they can be eaten and used in various recipes, they have lovely flower heads, which can also be eaten. I suspect they also help to ward-off pests. I’m surprised they aren’t grown much more widely.
Tuesday 31 March 2009
Cloudy but mild all day. Cut the front lawn – second cut this year. At height 22mm. Then I trimmed and tidied the lawn edges. Looks neat and in good shape. The aluminium edging I put in a couple of years back has been very effective. Unlike plastic, it hasn’t deteriorated and broken up. With Daffodils and Tulips in full bloom, Cowslips, Hyacinths, Arabis and Euphorbia, the garden looks good in its Spring glory.
Monday 30 March 2009
Bright and sunny morning, then cloudy afternoon. I used the last of the compost from the Big Barrel. Around the Strawberries, Blackcurrants and the large Gooseberry. So the Barrel is now empty. Helpful, because the other two bins are overflowing. I had a quick look under the black bin over the forced Rhubarb. An amazing sight! Bright, almost fluorescent, leaves, and bright pink / white stems. Soon be ready for pulling.
Friday 27 March 2009
Cold, less windy, dry. I applied lawn feed – liquid – to both front and rear lawns today. This is not the wormery liquid feed. It’s also simply feed, and I don not use weedkiller routinely on the lawns. All lawns are looking in good shape. I have used my bin compost on the fruit bushes, including the old Apple Tree, and on several other plants as well, Honeysuckle. This compost is better than I thought when I first started to empty the bin; it has a rich concentrated well-rotted consistency.
Thursday 26 March 2009
The front stone wall is looking brilliant. The white flowers of Arabis are in bloom, and the Euphorbia is iridescent. The first tulips – crimson – are coming into bloom. Another day of sunshine, winds and sharp short showers.
Wednesday 25 March 2009
Very strong winds, almost a gale. Too windy to attempt any gardening. Just a quick walk around. The wind was roaring in the Horse Chestnuts. The Hydrangea cutting is growing well. Seems to have survived the hard winter.
Tuesday 24 March 2009
Sunny periods but very cold. It’s probably good that this Spring is not leaping ahead too fast – with the risks of late frosts damaging new growth. The Cowslips look lovely. Most are in bloom. There are twentyone plants. The Bluebells are not yet out, but it won’t be long. Fox tracks evident on the newly dug soil.
Monday 23 March 2009
March winds and April showers today. Temporarily I’ve put the bench cover back on, to keep the rain off, until I can get a coat of varnish on the wood. I tidied more of the top garden over the weekend, including the Lovage bed. Plenty of vigorous bronze shoots appearing. I dug up another crop of Jerusalem Artichokes. Cut some stems of Angelica and started the candying process by immersing them in boiling water.
Friday 20 March 2009
Continued to take advantage of this dry sunny weather. I mowed the rear lawn, and tidied a couple of corners of the top garden. It’s nice to see old favourite perennials reappearing. Bronze shoots of Lovage are through. The Honeysuckle on the pyramid is growing strongly. I’ve found a root of Horseradish, which is a useful culinary plant. The Aquilegia plants are looking good. They self-set freely, but are such a delightful plant, especially in shady areas, with a variety of colours.
Thursday 19 March 2009
In my opinion, Chives is one of the most useful plants in the garden. They are excellent in salads, soups and other cooking. Fresh green stems, and delightful purple flowers, which can also be eaten. They form a wonderful edging plant for paths and borders. They are indestructible, almost, and are easy to grow. Grown adjacent to other plants they can help to repel diseases. They are very easily subdivided and transplanted. I’ve been doing exactly that today, dividing clumps of Chives and creating edging that I’ve no doubt will look attractive in the summer days.
Wednesday 18 March 2009
A lovely day. I put liquid feed on the front lawn today, the first feed this year. It was bought liquid, not my wormery variety, though I shall use the latter on the lawn. A bit more tidying of the top garden, which is looking in reasonable shape for mid-March.
Tuesday 17 March 2009
Sunny but turning cloudy by afternoon. A few jobs around the garden. I dug over and tidied the garden around the old apple tree. I dug up an animal skull. Must be the fox I buried here about three years ago. A good load of compost from the barrel bin around all the fruit bushes. I brought the solar lights from the garage, cleaned them, and placed them along the south border to charge up in the sun. Then the sun went in.
Monday 16 March 2009
A glorious Spring day, sunny and warm. Probably the warmest day this year so far. I transplanted the Strawberries this morning. There are just six plants. I used compost from the barrel compost bin, hopefully to give them a good start. The variety is Florence, a late-fruiting sort. Getting at the compost in the barrel was difficult. It’s basically a large plastic water butt with a few mods and marketed as a compost bin. Poor design. I had to tip it onto its side, there’s no other way of getting the compost out. The compost is usable, but a bit disappointing. Perhaps I’ve left it in the bin too long.
Friday 13 March 2009
A dull cloudy day, after March winds yesterday. A useful bit of digging today. I cleared the ground in the top garden, roughly between the five Gooseberry bushes. I plan to transplant the Strawberries here, then put some of the Charlotte potatoes in the vacated strawberry bed. Harvested a few really nice Jerusalem Artichokes today. Washed and dried them, bagged up for the fridge.
Thursday 12 March 2009
I’ve bought a few seed potatoes. They are Charlotte, earlies, and a delicious new potato. My usual problem with potatoes is that despite getting the seed in good time, chitting them – I’m then too busy to actually plant them. The wizened tubers end up in the compost bin. This year will be different. I’ve only bought about a dozen tubers, enough for a taste. My plan is to trial two cultivation methods; in the ground, and under black plastic sheets.
Wednesday 11 March 2009
I tidied the main garden path today. It had become overgrown close to the little meadow area of lawn, which I allow to grow wild. I also tidied the garden near the meadow, and decided to transplant two Cowslips to this location along the edge of the meadow. There is a small rusting cast iron ‘welcome’ sign in the garden here. I think it’s quite tasteful. The only other similar artefact in the garden is a small gnome – no colour, just weathered concrete, and discretely placed by one of the compost bins.
Tuesday 10 March 2009
Showery and dull, but not quite so blustery. Fairly typical for mid-March. I ran off some liquid feed from the wormery, and fed the indoor plants. Bit of a pong, I need to check the wormery sump. It may be my imagination, but this liquid feed seems to work magic. Within a few days the effects on growth are noticeable.
Monday 9 March 2009
The first Daffodil is in bloom! More or less in on cue, I think. A bit more pruning in the front garden on a very cold March morning. I trimmed the dead stems on the Sedum Matrona. This succulent is a favourite of the snails and slugs. I usually fail to take defensive measures until damage has been done. Yesterday I trimmed the Rue, Southernwood and Comfrey. Fund two Cowslips I had transplanted to the front and forgotten; moved them together in the sunniest spot.
Friday 6 March 2009
One more blue frosty morning – there was hoar frost on the back lawn first thing. I spent an hour in the top garden tidying up. I dug out weeds that were already growing strongly. They are the endemic weeds in my garden – Herb Robert is one, some of which are actually quite attractive plants, but which have to go if anything approaching an organised garden is to exist. I pruned the Grape Vines a bit more, and took a low-growing shoot from one of the Gooseberry bushes. I’m trying to develop this bush to grow on a single stem. I got rid of numerous self-set brambles. They’ve probably come from the Blackberries.
Thursday 5 March 2009
Bitterly cold even in the sun. I saw what I’m certain are Fox paw-prints in the freshly dug garden at the top. I noticed also that the alpine Arabis on the front rock wall is in bloom – a pretty little while flower. We have both yellow and purple crocuses out, and the lilac-coloured flowers that appear every year which I’ve assumed are a sort of crocus throwback. I may be wrong. Whichever, they are a welcome sight.
Wednesday 4 March 2009
A much colder morning, but bright after rain. I noticed that the first Daffodil showing a hint of yellow through the bud has appeared. I think they are at about the usual stage of growth for early March, despite all the weather anomalies. It occurred to me, walking round the garden today, how Spring moves forward despite frosty spells and cold. Probably dependent on the increasing – rapidly increasing – lengths of the daylight. But there is an amazing power behind Spring. The Rite of Spring maybe. Two crows cawing around the Horse Chestnuts today, and the Maggies are still here.
Tuesday 3 March 2009
This morning I checked for any signs of new shoots on the Russian Vine along the top fence. Nothing at all. But the Honeysuckles have green shoots. The Chives which I use along the borders of the paths already have an inch or two of fresh growth. They make a lovely edging plant. Two pairs of Magpies were chattering about the top of the Big Fir, and I spotted several Blue Tits flitting in the woodland area.
Monday 2 March 2009
A glorious blue early Spring morning. I’ve taken the black bin off the Rhubarb, to encourage the new stems which I shall force. I think they will benefit from a good watering. The bin will need to go back by this evening – there is a return to frosty weather forecast. Hopefully just a brief return. Yesterday I did the first serious digging of the year, at the top corner. Just a small patch, but it is good to get back to working the soil again.
Friday 27 February 2009
I watched a female Blackbird on the front lawn this morning. Looking for insects and worms. She then flew up to the Berberis Juliana and disappeared in the bush. A male Blackbird was rooting about in the flower bed. We have often had Blackbirds nesting in the Juliana. It five superb cover and protection with its long spines. I hope we have a nest this year.
Thursday 26 February 2009
I looked under the black bin over the Rhubarb. The first shoots are pushing through the pile of compost I dumped over the crowns. Hopefully another good harvest of forced stems in a month or so. The Angelica is looking healthy. I cleared the remains of last year’s dead stems away a few weeks back. Now there’s a small clump of strongly growing new green stems. And the Foxgloves in the shady wooded area have survived the winter. It should be an ideal site.
Wednesday 25 February 2009
It was good to see the first crocuses in bloom today. Deeper purple ones in the top garden, and the pale lilac species that always flower around the rock garden on the front. Daffodils are well on the way, and so are the other Spring bulbs. Surprising, after such a hard winter.
Tuesday 24 February 2009
I did a bit of real gardening today. I found the secateurs and pruned back the Vines, Buddleia and Gooseberry where they were beginning to make the path impassable. Just lightly, but enough to clear the paths. On checking carefully, I counted thirteen Cowslips, more than I thought. I noticed that the ones surviving are those most recently divided and transplanted ie the newest plants. Perhaps the life of a Cowslip plant is just a couple of years. I shall do more dividing the clumps this year after they flower.
Monday 23 February 2009
A mild settled spell. Realised I need to prune back the Vines. They are encroaching on the paths across the top garden. Last year was a very poor year for my grapes. Probably the exceptionally wet summer. Definitely looks like I’ve lost some of the Cowslips. Still have about half a dozen plants, and one starting to flower. They are lovely spring flowers – simple, unpretentious, cheerful.
Friday 20 February 2009
Spring is most definitely in the air in the garden. A bright sunny morning. There’s something about spring sunshine that is different and special. The daffodils are growing fast, and the snowdrops are magnificent. I will soon remove the cover over the bench at the top of the garden which has been in place all winter. Though still plenty of time for a return to a frosty snap.
Thursday 19 February 2009
The first Cowslip is just coming into flower. I seem to have lost some of the Cowslip plants. There were at least a dozen along a small path. Today I counted around six. The Rhubarb is not yet pushing through, though it has been protected from the harsh frosts by an upturned black plastic bin.
Wednesday 18 February 2009
A cloudy mild day. The weather seems becalmed at the moment. I noticed a surprising amount of disturbed soil around the garden today. I put it down to the Squirrels searching for their buried hoards of conkers. Could be partly the work of the Foxes as well.
Tuesday 17 February 2009
A mild February day. Walking round the garden this afternoon I noticed some frost damage to one of my terracotta pots. I have collected a variety of terracotta pots and ornaments of various sorts. They are placed around the garden. I noticed that one of the pots, under the grape vines, seemed to have shattered. It didn’t look like malicious damage, just a kind of spontaneous fracturing and splitting. It’s a nice design, a bowl with holes in the sides, like a small strawberry container. I’ll leave it there to remind me in the hot dry sunny days of summer what a hard winter we’ve had.
Monday 16 February 2009
The snow has almost gone, and it’s been a sunny, pleasant day. Just a few isolated bits hidden away you have to search for. The Snowdrops are looking lovely. There are thirteen clusters. Today I spotted the Snowdrops that I transplanted to the lawn and the meadow area. I really must try again this year to label and mark the Snowdrop clusters to prevent accidental disturbance during the year.
Friday 13 February 2009
For the first time this year I noticed it felt warm in the sun this morning. Still snow about, but it will soon be possible to do some gardening.
Thursday 12 February 2009
Still plenty of snow in the garden - now the eleventh day of snow. I noticed the Bluebells are pushing through, and what must be a Daffodil. When the weather does get warmer and Spring-like, things will really take off. The days are now noticeably getting longer. The pace is quickening.
Wednesday 11 February 2009
There is a slow thaw under way, and it is appreciably warmer today, but there’s still plenty of snow lying in the garden. The solitary fungus is still there. I thought the Squirrels might have fancied the delicacy. As the snow retreats, the Snowdrops are revealed in all their glory. All the clusters in both front and rear gardens look very good.
Tuesday 10 February 2009
I was amazed to find a new fungus in the garden today, growing out of the ‘forest floor’ in the woodland area. It is the same unidentified kind as I’ve found under the Big Fir, a couple of months back. Shiny, waxy-looking cap, a light brown / fawn colour. I’m surprised to find fungi growing after such a freezing spell with ice and snow around. It has been perceptibly milder today, but I doubt whether this temperature change today has caused such a sudden growth.
Monday 9 February 2009
Still snow and ice in the garden. This afternoon one of our Squirrels was back on the bird table, after the bag of mixed seeds. She’s given up on the peanuts in the metal feeder.
Friday 6 February 2009
Another substantial snowfall this morning. This is getting quite a big thing. The snow is generally about nine inches deep, but drifts to around eighteen inches in places. I decided to get my spade and clear the front drive and pavement. It was hard work. There was more snow to shift than I imagined. I put a bit of salt down, and now the drive is much safer for walking and getting the car out. More freezing temperatures are forecast.
Thursday 5 February 2009
More overnight snow, a substantial fall. Initially no evidence of animal tracks on the lawn. As the day wore on and the snow began to recede, a clear track of Fox prints from the garage down the path was revealed. Maybe he is sleeping in the garage. This is the fifth day of snow and freezing temperatures. At least the Rosemary cuttings indoors should be all right, and some of those in the ground have been covered with a plastic box.
Wednesday 4 February 2009
Perfect Fox paw prints in the snow on the rear lawn this morning. Far too large for a cat, and placed along a line. As I suspect, our Fox enters the garden by the side gate. He had taken a look in the garage, under the door, before trotting off to the top of the garden.
Tuesday 3 February 2009
The garden remains white over. A blue day with no further snow falls, and the snow has receded a bit in the winter sun. More snow is forecast. Early this morning I heard the crows cawing. This pair has been around for a couple of weeks. Probably sizing up the Horse Chestnuts for a nest. In which case there will the usual dog fights - or bird fights - with the Maggies.
Monday 2 February 2009
Heavy snowfall overnight, and more this afternoon. About four inches, but little drifts deeper in places in the garden. I went out for my walk round the garden, and took a few video and photo shots. I was looking for animal and bird tracks. Identified Pigeon tracks, and cat, but no evidence of foxes. Pleased I had the foresight to bring the potted Rosemary cuttings indoors. I may lose those in the garden.
Sunday 1 February 2009
A biting cold wind, though dry and quite bright, with forecasts of snow tonight, and a hard frost, as we enter February. I’ve decided to bring the potted Rosemary cuttings indoors from the patio for a few days, to try to avoid losing them to the frost. A brisk walk round the garden. The terracotta thermometer shows about - 2 degrees C. All twelve clusters of Snowdrops are in bloom, and are looking good. I noticed that the Tulips are pushing through the ground. That seems early.
Saturday 31 January 2009
I used the step ladder to finish tidying the Russian Vine at the top fence. Got rid of the remaining Sycamore self-set branches. The blackberry has now gone, so the Russian Vine will have a free run towards the north corner of the fence. I took further advantage of the crisp blue morning to tidy up the top garden; prune the roses, buddleia, redcurrants and cut away the dead stems of the Lemon Balm along the path.
Friday 30 January 2009
Another dry but very cold day, and forecast to get colder with snow. I did a last bit of clearing the blackberry brambles at the top fence. There are a few left, intertwined with the Russian Vine, but I’ll need to get the step ladder out to reach them. A self-set Sycamore the other side of the fence also needs pruning back. Still no sign of the Snowdrops I planted in the meadow area. I wonder if the Squirrels have taken them.
Thursday 29 January 2009
I took advantage of a lovely crisp blue afternoon to start removing the blackberry brambles at the top fence. It hasn’t been very productive, and last year was getting overgrown, inevitably, by the Russian Vine which has done a splendid job of screening the unsightly corrugated iron fence. I will finish the job soon. I then need to trim the Russian Vine where it’s trying to establish on the Rose Arch. This summer should see the entire top fence covered by the Russian Vine.
Wednesday 28 January 2009
I saw a report in the media this week that Snowdrops are several weeks late flowering this year, because it has been too cold. Only with the break in the frosty period have they come into bloom. Which matches my experience in the garden here completely.
Tuesday 27 January 2009
An amusing and entertaining scene in the garden this morning. Our Squirrel occupying the bird table (it should more correctly be called the squirrel table). Then, suspended by just one hind leg from the table edge, she attacks the red plastic string bag of bird seed, periodically climbing back and sitting on the table to consume the seeds. This process of course scatters seeds down on the lawn, where two Wood Pigeons are gratefully pecking at the manna from high.
Monday 26 January 2009
I had a look under the black plastic bin covering the rhubarb clump today. No sign yet of any shoots emerging from the thick mulch of compost. The days are perceptibly lengthening now, just, but of course it isn’t getting any warmer yet. It won’t be long before the first rhubarb appears. More Snowdrops in bloom, in various spots around the garden. I must resolve to mark the sites of the major clusters for next year.
Sunday 25 January 2009
I heard the crows cawing again today. Spotted one crow high in the Horse Chestnut in the next garden. Usually there are vicious squabblings between the Magpies and Crows. I haven’t seen any Maggies lately.
Saturday 24 January 2009
Tempted out to do a bit of garden work by the lovely blue crisp day, after a dull cloudy start. Belatedly I’ve brought into the garage all the solar lights. They need a clean and service before the Spring. They definitely add atmosphere to the evening and night time garden. Then I added kitchen waste to the top tray of the wormery. First for over a month. But the worms are active, and I want to keep them in production even over these cold months. They have been far more active than I expected, compared to last winter. Maybe the wormery system has settled down into a sustainable mode.
Friday 23 January 2009
A bit more gardening today. I tidied the lawn edge along the south border. The Angelica especially had died back over the lawn. The covered grass was yellowing and becoming almost a bare patch. My daily walk round the garden was exhilarating in the icy cold January sunshine. Nice to find Snowdrops where you don’t expect them. Sometimes stray bulbs that have bloomed against the odds. And a sense of a stirring growth just beginning. Is it me, or are the days just starting to lengthen perceptibly?
Thursday 22 January 2009
Milder, but loads of rain overnight again. I walked on the rear garden lawn this morning, and was surprised to find it soggy underfoot. I can’t remember it ever being so squashy. The soil here is over chalk, and always drains quickly. An indication how much rain has fallen lately.
Wednesday 21 January 2009
This afternoon despite the bitter cold I did my first bit of serious weeding this year. Just a small patch of garden on the front where the Snowdrops are coming into bloom. It was necessary to be careful not to damage the Snowdrops, or the Tulips and Daffodils which, surprisingly, are emerging. Still, the days are moving on, and in a week or so the days will begin to be noticeably lengthening, very gradually.
Tuesday 20 January 2009
I’ve now placed the old plastic dustbin upside down over the rhubarb, following the feed I gave it at the weekend. Forced rhubarb is quite delicious. We’ve still some sticks left from Spring last year. It should be ready to pull around April. I will add a load of worm compost on the crown when I get chance. It would be a good time to split the crown. It’s already quite extensive, and productive.
Monday 19 January 2009
The first snowdrops are in bloom in the front garden. About a dozen are in that delightful first stage when the white flower head resembles a hanging drop of pure white liquid, and you can see where the name comes from.
Sunday 18 January 2009
Looked out and saw the line broken this morning, lying on the path. A couple of fat Pigeons were waddling around the bird food, no doubt wondering why they had been given this bonus feed. It is a clean snap. I’ve put the bird feeders on the post top near the bird table temporarily. A bitterly cold blue day.
Saturday 17 January 2009
A quiet few hours during a lull in the stormy weather. I decided to check the wormery. First time since before Christmas, though I had put in plenty of kitchen waste to keep them happy. Delighted and a bit surprised that everything was excellent. Lots of liquid feed, about ten litres I would think, which I then diluted with water ten to one, and fed as many plants as I could - roses, rhubarb, apple and pear trees and more. I checked all the trays. Plenty of worm activity, much more than I expected given the frosty weather. I didn’t try to take out any compost from the lower tray. Need a bit of time on a milder day to do that.
Friday 16 January 2009
The indoor plants are surviving quite well. I was concerned about the big Yucca Elephantides, but it looks in a fair state after around two months indoors The key is to avoid over-watering at all costs, and give them plenty of light. This is the first year the Yucca has spent the winter indoors, so it’s a tough old plant anyway.
Thursday 15 January 2009
I found one or two snowdrops pushing through on the lawn. I don’t think they are the ones I transplanted to the lawn last autumn. Still not seen the first snowdrop in bloom. I threw compost around the Rosemary cuttings and the Lady’s Smock, to protect them from any further hard frosts.
Wednesday 14 January 2009
The Lady’s Smock is surviving well. Last year I divided two of the clumps, to give a total of five. The new clumps seem to have survived the winter well so far, and the original plants look positively flourishing. I’m surprised. This plant began life in a Leicestershire meadow, but has taken well to chalky Bedfordshire. The Salad Burnet doesn’t hail from Leicestershire, but is also thriving. Another surprise - how this fragile-looking plant stays so green and fresh through all seasons. A squirrel in the garden performing acrobatics on the line. He decided to drop straight to the ground from the line - about five feet – instead of crawling upside down back to the post then shinning it down. No doubt he judged the drop carefully as safe. You don’t try that from 50 feet up the Horse Chestnut.
Tuesday 13 January 2009
The rhubarb crown is certainly showing signs of new growth. We had a fine crop last year. I froze part of the crop, so we are still enjoying stewed rhubarb and custard. If this milder weather continues a bit longer, I intend getting some liquid feed or even compost from the wormery to mulch the crowns.
Monday 12 January 2009
I did a bit of weeding in the front garden. I uncovered the shoots of tulips pushing through. That seems very early. Still waiting for the first snowdrop bloom. If anything, the snowdrops are on the late side this year.
Sunday 11 January 2009
This afternoon the garden played host to six Wood Pigeons and two Squirrels. All at the same time, all feeding on the nuts, biscuits and seeds. Not taking the slightest notice of each other. Yet Squirrels are serious predators of birds’ eggs. I suppose taking your eggs is one thing, attacking you directly is another.
Saturday 10 January 2009
I spotted Wood Pigeons, Robin, Starlings and Blackbirds feeding in the garden today. Back to the bitter cold.
Friday 9 January 2009
Back to colder weather. Down to -3 degrees C by early evening. I’m pleased how well my Rosemary cuttings appear to be surviving this winter. Surprising. In the past I’ve lost whole bushes of Rosemary by the frost. But the Busy Lizzie has succumbed I think. I should have brought a bit of the plant indoors. There you are.
Thursday 8 January 2009
A change in the weather overnight; much milder, and the snow and ice are disappearing. Quite a noisy group of Starlings in the garden after the food on the path today. Nice to see them. And I spotted a Blue Tit attacking the peanuts in the hanging feeder. A couple of Pigeons literally billing and cooing on the fence, perhaps a reminder that Spring is on the horizon.
Wednesday 7 January 2009
No sighting or sign of our Fox today. But the Robin and Blackbirds have been feeding on the path. I saw a Starling – once a very common visitor, now rare, perched precariously on the peanut feeder suspended from the line. I hadn’t noticed before how long and narrow is a Starling’s beak. She was able to pick away at the nuts at a furious rate. The snow is still around today.
Tuesday 6 January 2009
The snow still lies on the ground, after a bitterly cold night with temperatures down to around -10 degrees C. Looking out of my study window this morning, I spotted an unusual fawnish-coloured shape on the long grass protected from the snow by the Box tree. It moved, and I saw it was a Fox, curled up and sleeping. Hurriedly, I took a brief video clip, and went to get my camera. On returning to the study, the Fox had gone. I braved the cold and went out to investigate. Fox paw marks in the snow lead from near the garage to the Box tree, then away to the top garden. It’s the first Fox I’ve seen in the garden for many months, thought the various excavations have been obvious. A nice thought that my little woodland area is deemed safe enough to sleep in by a wild creature. I’ve put out a bowl of cat food for Reynard, if he returns. Within an hour, one of our cat visitors was sampling the food. I also put out bird seed, peanuts, a bowl of warm water and broken biscuits along the path through the woodland area. A Robin was soon taking an interest, and a couple of Blackbirds. Meanwhile, our Cockerel was busy crowing away in the distance. Perhaps Fox had gone to investigate.
Monday 5 January 2009
The first snowfall of 2009! About 2 inches, appeared overnight. Another bitterly cold day, so it has largely lain. Tonight is predicted to be the coldest of the winter so far, with temperatures down to around - 7 degrees C . I saw a Blackbird searching the south border this morning for food; and what I think was a House Sparrow in the woodland area.. No birds have visited the seeds and nuts and Fatsnax hanging from the line. Surprising.
Friday 2 January 2009
The dry frosty weather continues, and my cockerel crows on. I found a snowdrop today almost in bloom. Needs a few more days, and possibly a milder day or two. I’m sure I heard Great Tits today, starting up their ‘teacher, teacher’ song. Perhaps a sign of Spring on the horizon. I haven’t checked the wormery since the cold spell began. I’ve stopped adding kitchen waste, since their activity must be reduced in this cold. But I ought to run off liquid feed, and do a basic check at least. It was in the early part of last year that I neglected the wormery, and a serious decline set in. That was reversed over the year, but I must avoid a repetition.
Thursday 1 January 2009 New Year's Day
Another bitter cold day. The cockerel continues its morning song. And I spotted the squirrel on the ground. I think it is now looking for the hidden stock piles of conkers.
Wednesday 31 December 2008 New Year’s Eve
A pleasant but very cold day again. Somewhere in the neighbourhood there’s a cockerel. This week he’s been crowing each morning. I really like the sound, so redolent of country sounds not usually heard in town. I know it’s a different story if the bird is next door. I’m still looking out for the first snowdrop bloom. It won’t be long.
Tuesday 30 December 2008
Another bitter cold day in the garden, dry, with winter sun. A feint smell of wood bonfire in the afternoon air. Quite pleasant, a reminder of the days when proper garden bonfires were actually a pleasure on a calm evening. I heard a bird song today which I think was either a Robin or a Wren. Lots of new diggings and scrapings around the garden. Foxes, cats or squirrels. Take your pick!
Monday 29 December 2008
I noticed the first snowdrop shoot peeping through just before Christmas. Today I checked all the places where the snowdrop clusters are. All of them have snowdrop shoots through. I have left the clusters undisturbed during the year. I intended marking the locations before the foliage died down last spring, but never got round to it. The ones I planted in the lawn are not visible yet, so I am avoiding walking in that area. I think it’s only a matter of days before the first snowdrop bloom is out. A bitterly cold day today, but pleasant in the winter sun.
Wednesday 24 December 2008 Christmas Eve
The Angelica has finally begun to succumb to the winter. I noticed for the first time today that the leaves on the tall outer stems have turned a shade of yellow. The inner shoots are still green, and seem to have a second flush of growth. This may have something to do with the liquid worm feed I have plied this plant with, possibly unwisely. The base of the Angelica stem still amazes me. It is a lovely coppery bronze, and looks like a tree trunk – it’s around six inches across.
Tuesday 23 December 2008
Perhaps I should scatter bird feed seeds regularly on the path this winter. Within a couple of hours of the spillage yesterday, I spotted a House Sparrow feeding on the path. I’d forgotten that many birds are ground feeders, and won’t take to a hanging feeder.
Monday 22 December 2008
When I looked out today, the garden line with the bird feed containers and bags suspended from it was lying on the ground. Inevitably, it wasn’t long before the squirrel was on the scene. He had the red plastic net bags open. Bird seed and peanuts on the path everywhere. When I went out later to inspect the damage, it was clear that the line had just snapped. It may have been due to the weight of the squirrel, but I doubt it. Not guilty this time I think. I repaired the line and replaced the bird feed. It was much milder today.
Friday 19 December 2008
Blow me down! When I went out in the garden today to see how the new mushrooms we getting on – they’d gone! Completely vanished. The pine needles are debris in which they were growing had all been disturbed. I think I know the culprit, and it’s not a squirrel or a fox. I had watched our black & white ‘waiter’ visitor cat scratching the ground near the Big Fir, to do what cats do in these circumstances. There was a solitary crow cawing and flapping overhead before perching at the top of a neighbouring tree.
Thursday 18 December 2008
Two Magpies were around the trees this morning. A milder day. My garden thermometer was reading 6 degree C. It’s a crude instrument, with a terracotta dial, but does at least show temperatures which vary in a logical way. I noticed a small white object, about 0.5 cm across, just peeping from the ‘forest’ floor debris under the Big Fir. On close examination it was a baby mushroom. Next to it I could then see three other even smaller emerging mushrooms. I’ve never seen them at this very early stage before. Then I spotted a new flush of the translucent-capped fungi I’ve seen before, not far away. It seems odd to get so many mushrooms and other fungi around in these winter days.
Wednesday 17 December 2008
From the Study I heard a solitary crow cawing this morning. A forlorn sound on a cold December day. I found a new excavation in the garden today. A neat hole scraped out of the lawn under the garden picnic bench. Either squirrels or foxes. Foxes I think.
Tuesday 16 December 2008
Walking round the garden today I noticed that one of the bird-boxes had fallen to the ground. It was the one with a slate roof, that had been fixed to the trunk of the Big Fir, facing north. I don’t think it has ever been used by any birds. Prime suspects are the squirrels, but on this occasion they are probably innocent. I reckon the high winds recently brought it down. I shall refix it, maybe in a new location, when I get chance. The days are very short now.
Monday 15 December 2008
Holly and Ivy. It’s nice and seasonal to see the red berries on the Holly bush in the front garden. I’m surprised the birds haven’t taken all the berries by now. Perhaps it’s a reflection on the reduced numbers of garden birds. And the Ivy climbs higher up the trunk of the Big Fir. On Gardeners’ Question Time on Radio 4 yesterday they were giving advice on getting rid of Ivy. I’m happy to leave it alone. It will be a bonus for the garden wildlife.
Friday 12 December 2008
In the early hours today I woke up, and feeling thirsty came downstairs to get a cold drink from the fridge. I looked out of the window at the back garden, wondering if I might be lucky and see a fox on the prowl. The garden at night. Instead, although the garden was pitch dark, through the gap in the trees the ground beyond was strangely bright. As though someone was shining a powerful torch on the ground. I immediately went back upstairs, and through the study window could see an extraordinarily bright full Moon, high in the sky, over the trees. I discovered today that the Moon is closest to Earth now than for the past fifteen years.
Thursday 11 December 2008
I had a close look around the garden for any signs of snowdrops or crocuses pushing through. Nothing at all. It’s too early. The strawberry plants look healthy and green. This is probably the time to lift them and replant. I neglected them this year, and so had practically no fruit.
Wednesday 10 December 2008
Another bitterly cold day. Evidence in several spots in the garden that the foxes have been busy, little excavations here and there. But I haven’t seen foxes for a long time. I noticed a few more of those fungi - I think they are Wood Blewitts – under the trees. They have a sort of waxy translucent looking cap. I don’t really expect to see fungi when it’s freezing. The terracotta garden thermometer read - 4 degrees C.
I believe it.
Tuesday 9 December 2008
On close inspection today I could see the new Peony shoots pushing through the ground at the base of the old dead stems. The Rhubarb, with all this year’s stems and leaves gone, also has what looks like the start of new shoots on the crowns. An early reminder, before Christmas, that Spring is waiting in the wings. I looked on the lawn where I planted the snowdrops earlier this year, but I couldn’t see any evidence of growth. A fine sunny but bitterly cold day.
Monday 8 December 2008
The cold weather continues. Temperatures around 2 degrees C. I noticed today that the Tradescantia I planted outside seems to have been hit by the frost. It’s sheltered by a north facing fence, but some leaves look darkened and wilting. I ought to pot a piece and bring it indoors to avoid the risk of losing the lot. A few Magpies noticed around today.
Friday 5 December 2008
The wormery continues to work well. A bit of a problem is what to do with the compost and liquid feed over the winter months. I think the worms will be less active, but they seem to be still producing these valuable products. The houseplants can use some of the liquid feed, but even they don’t need much feeding if any over the winter. The best idea for the compost is to use it as a winter mulch on those plants that will be in early spring growth. Certainly rhubarb, and also the Ice Plant and other succulents and alpines and the ferns.
Thursday 4 December 2008
The garden looks bare and empty. I heard a Magpie clacking somewhere in the woodland area. I went to investigate. I couldn’t see the Magpie, but sitting at the base of the tree trunk was that cat again. I walked away. I’m sure the Magpie can take care of itself.
Wednesday 3 December 2008
I watched a cat in the garden this morning. The moggie was sitting under the bird seed and peanuts bags hanging from the clothes line, looking longing up hoping for a bird to appear. He even stood up on his legs to try to reach the bags. I don’t think cats have become partial to peanuts. In the afternoon, as I strolled round the garden, a different cat was prowling in the wooded area. He saw me and froze. I just walked away.
Tuesday 2 December 2008
Another very cold day. As I walked round the garden today I noticed that my terracotta thermometer at the bottom of the garden was reading -2 deg C. It’s a fairly crude instrument in scientific terms, and in the measuring principle it uses, but it does clearly work, and it’s surviving the elements well so far. I’d be surprised if we have no snow soon.
Monday 1 December 2008
A very cold day, sunny. Imagine my delight and surprise this morning when I spotted what I think was a House Sparrow in the garden. I literally haven’t seen a Sparrow around for ages. At least, I think it was a House Sparrow. Something a bit strange. It was alone. Sparrows used to be sociable birds. And it seemed to prefer the trees and bushes more than I remember Sparrows did. Perhaps it wasn’t a Sparrow. There are several other small brownish birds it could have been.
Friday 28 November 2008
Curiously, no birds seen in the garden today, anywhere.
Thursday 27 November 2008
At last! Birds have returned to the garden! It began this morning with a couple of Magpies strutting about under the trees, chattering noisily and angrily as usual. Then I spotted a Pigeon waddling ponderously around. In quick succession, about four Blue Tits flitted around the garden, making lightning visits to the hanging seed and peanut feeders, followed immediately by a Robin, picking through bits and bobs where I had emptied the compost from the growbags. I was especially pleased to see a Robin back. It’s been ages.
Wednesday 26 November 2008
Getting milder. The little patch of wildflower meadow at the top end of the back lawn has not been cut - or mown, I should say. It seems to have become overgrown by one plant, which I can’t identify. I think I shall need to manage this area more closely next year.
Tuesday 25 November 2008
A pleasant bright crisp November day. No squirrels seen. And still not a single feathered friend feeding.
Monday 24 November 2008
Still no birds feeding, but yesterday a squirrel discovered the goodies. She climbed the line post, grabbed the red plastic net bag of peanuts, and made off with it between her paws down the garden path. Under the trees, she gnawed through the net and scattered the peanuts around. I watched these proceedings through the window, then went out and retrieved the bag half-filled with peanuts and hung it on the line. I was surprised that within minutes the squirrel was back, fearless of me, and rescuing the peanuts left on the ground. Clearly a hungry squirrel, and food is getting scarcer.
Friday 21 November 2008
Not a single solitary bird has been seen visiting the food I’ve put out. It’s been getting much colder, so we may get visitors at the weekend. All the Rosemary cuttings seem to be doing quite well. I hope that at least a couple survive the winter. If necessary, I will bring one indoors. The Russian Vine is now bare, a tangled skein of long thin branches. I wonder if there will be any nesting birds there in the Spring? I think the squirrels would have a job getting at them.
Thursday 20 November 2008
After neglecting to feed the birds since early summer, I’ve again put out peanuts, seed and Fatsnax. No takers today. I suppose I stopped feeding them partly due to the persistent efforts of the squirrels, and partly because there didn’t seem any birds interested. A frosty weekend ahead is being forecast, maybe with snow. Will that be enough to make my food seem more welcome to the birds?
Wednesday 19 November 2008
I’ve found more of the new fungi today, nearby under the big Fir. Must be around eight or ten. They were probably there yesterday, but I may have missed them. The greyish waxy cap makes them not obvious to spot. They all have the same bluish stem. Today has been dry and sunny. I took the opportunity to put the winter cover over the new seat at the top fence, while it was dry. I really ought to cover the picnic bench.
Tuesday 18 November 2008
I spotted a pair of Magpies briefly in the next garden today. And I found more fungi under the big Fir. There are two sorts, I think. A small group with waxy smooth caps and bluish stalks, which I reckon are Wood Blewitts. Nearby another small cluster, a bit broken, which are brownish and I can’t identify. The white mushrooms which appeared last week are fading but still there. The ground under the big Fir, with the accumulated debris from the tree, is undoubtedly a fertile site for fungi.
Monday 17 November 2008
Another one of those dark grey cloudy drizzly days, and a bit colder. No incentive to walk in the garden, let alone do gardening. This afternoon a largish flock of starlings descended on the trees, squawking and squabbling. They left as quickly as they had arrived. Otherwise, not much other bird life seen.
Friday 14 November 2008
The Spider Plant that was caught outside in the cold snap is slowly recovering indoors. Some of the foliage and runners were blackened. They shrivelled, and I cut them off. So it seems no terminal damage was done. Today the garden has been showered by falling leaves from the Horse Chestnut in the adjacent garden. A truly autumnal sight - leaves cascading down, like the poppies on Remembrance Day.
Thursday 13 November 2008
I’m pleased that all the new plants I introduced in the front garden have prospered. Both Sages are doing well. The Soapwort has spread, but it’s a delightful plant. The Mallow is thriving, and all the ferns have established themselves. The alpines on the wall and the rockery are in good shape. I haven’t put in any new bulbs this autumn, but I’m hoping for good displays from those left in the ground from early this year.
Wednesday 12 November 2008
This time of the gardening year thoughts turn to plans for the new year, and changes that could be made in the garden. I’m minded to get rid of the blackberries at the top fence. They are overgrown by the Russian Vine. The crop has been feeble this year. I may let the Vine take over the entire length of the fence. I really ought to get some work done tidying up the drive. Judicious pruning of the trees and bushes will have to be tackled.
Tuesday 11 November 2008
A pleasant day, dry, sunny, cold. My wormery continues to produce a regular supply of liquid feed. I used it today to feed the houseplants, and around the front garden. I hope I’m not in danger of overfeeding. It’s not what I would be doing in November, if I didn’t have a handy free supply of liquid feed, which so far has seemed to be remarkably beneficial. I washed out the sump of the wormery today, and added more kitchen waste to each of the three trays. Again, I’m unsure how much waste the worms can handle during the winter, when their activity slows down, I believe.
Monday 10 November 2008
A particularly rainy dull day, but I managed a brief walk round the garden. The Grape Vines have now shed nearly all their leaves, and the garden generally has a distinctly November look. The two Foxgloves I introduced in the shady woodland area are still green and look healthy. Hopefully a good display next summer. The Hostas are continuing to fade and die back.
Friday 7 November 2008
A cheery sight in the dull November garden - two New Dawn roses are in bloom. There was a second flush in early autumn, but I don’t recall ever seeing November roses. We have berries on the Holly, and the ivy continues to climb higher up the trunk of the big Fir.
Thursday 6 November 2008
The damp dull days continue. The Angelica is still green with luxuriant foliage. Like the Lovage used to be in its early years. I think last year the Angelica survived the whole winter without being cut down by frosts. Hardly seems possible. I’ll take a closer interest this year. I’m making a bit of effort to protect the new Rosemary cuttings from frost. I’ve moved the rather tattered remnants of the mini-greenhouse on to the patio, to provide at least a basic shelter. It’s important I don’t lose all the Rosemary.
Wednesday 5 November 2008 Bonfire Night
This mildish damp grey weather is fairly typical of early November and Bonfire Night. This morning we had visitors to the garden - birds. A pigeon waddling on the path, a magpie on the garage roof, and a couple of blue tits darting about the trees. The mushrooms haven’t been taken yet by the squirrels. I always leave mushrooms in the garden to spread spores around, hoping for another crop next year. Not sure how effective this is, but they do seem to come up each year.
Tuesday 4 November 2008
Another grey dull mild November day. The leaves are falling from the Russian Vine and the Grape Vines. Indoor, the Spider Plant seems to be slowly recovering from it’s exposure to that cold snap last month.
Monday 3 November 2008
Milder, grey and damp. I found another mushroom, the third, under the big Fir. The surface here is thick with pine needles and all the debris from the Fir. I’m not sure how fertile it is, but it certainly keeps pushing up fungi of various sorts. The recent frosty spell has caught the Hostas. Autumn Moon is fading swiftly. The Big Daddy has never really got properly established. There was an early attack by slugs, which didn’t help. Maybe it is set back under the trees too much in the shade.
Friday 31 October 2008 Hallowe’en
A bitterly cold day, but sunny and crisp. I found two mushrooms pushing through under the big Fir tree. Further on the ground has been disturbed, by the squirrels I think. The frosty nights have damaged the Spider Plant. The leaves are partly wilted. I’ve brought it indoors, but the damage may have been done. I added more kitchen waste to the wormery, and ran off a large quantity of liquid feed. I took the opportunity to wash out the collection sump.
Thursday 30 October 2008
As October draws to a close I reflect on the sad reduction of bird life in the garden this year so far. No robins seen for ages; no coal tits calling, certainly no thrushes; very few sparrows; even the pigeons have vanished over the summer. The occasional magpie has been around, and I’ve heard a crow cawing now and then. Why? Is it all due to the squirrels? As the colder weather sets in I shall make an effort to keep the bird table and feeders stocked.
Wednesday 29 October 2008
Today has been blue and cold. I expected the snow to have vanished in the early sun. Some has, but there is still enough lying to maintain the wintry garden look. I haven’t been round the garden today. The Spider Plant is still outside in the snow. I should have brought it indoors.
Tuesday 28 October 2008
We don’t often enjoy the garden at night in late October. But this evening the gardens are covered in snow. The bitter cold air from the arctic has given us a taste of winter, before Hallowe’en. There are red berries on the firethorn and holly in the front garden. It won’t stay long, but it’s picturesque for a while.
Monday 27 October 2008
Much colder today, but dry and blue. I was walking on the path near the Grape Vines when I heard rustling. I stopped and listened. I had just disturbed a blackbird. He was on the ground under the vines, then flew away with the blackbird’s typical clacking alarm call. However, I could see any bunches of the small green unripe grapes. They seemed to have disappeared. I did find one - but it was just a bunch of stalks, apart from a single grape. It seems the blackbird has been feeding on the grapes. Something I’ve not observed before.
Friday 24 October 2008
I had a close look at the Angelica plant this morning on my stroll round the garden. I was amazed. The stem base is now about four inches diameter, more like a shrub trunk that an herbaceous plant. It reminds me of Lovage - it has the same purplish tinge and the same vigour. I really must try making candied Angelica, out of curiosity. I wonder what the taste is.
Thursday 23 October 2008
My wormery is working overtime these days. The wriggly wigglers are producing more liquid feed and compost than I seem able to use, as the growing season begins to close. I suppose as the weather gets colder, the creatures will get less active, and production should reduce. Meanwhile, I’ll try to find ways to use all the wonderful plant food they are making for me.
Wednesday 22 October 2008
A lovely sunny dry day, so I did a spot of autumn weeding on the front. I’ve neglected this garden. Some lovely self-sets, including tall Feverfew plants in bloom, with their white button-like flowers. A delightful and surprising sight in October, but they had to go in the compost bin. I found a couple of Antirrhinums in bloom - creamy white flowers. I left those to set seed, which is a bit unlikely so late in the year.
Tuesday 21 October 2008
Walking round the garden today, it occurred to me how green the garden still is, in late October. Leaves are falling, but there is a green freshness around which seems unusual for this late in the year.
Monday 20 October 2008
A rainy dull day, and the days are getting shorter. Soon be the end of summer time. I noticed that the soil is quite dry in some parts of the garden. Under the trees mainly. I watered the recently planted Tradescantia. Found a few ripe blackberries at the top fence, which I picked and ate. The squirrels have been very active under the big Fir. Lots of neat holes dug through the pine needles.
Friday 17 October 2008
A pleasant walk round the garden this morning. A squirrel was on the lawn, at the edge of the little meadow, before scampering into the woodland area. Then I spotted a blackbird hopping around under the old apple tree. I froze and watched. It hadn’t seen me. It’s always a pleasure to observe a wild creature close-up unawares. Round the path to my old wooded seat in the corner. The sun felt really warm on my face. I pondered that it was mid-October. Surprising the sun was so powerful. Almost in reverie, I wondered at this star, our Sun. Feeling the heat from 92 million miles! And if I was just half that distance, how it would feel some four times hotter! A pleasant few moments lost in the garden.
Thursday 16 October 2008
The Hydrangea cutting sitting in a pot on the patio has grown well, and seems established. But a strange thing has happened. The leaves have turned a dark crimson. In fact, the tips of a few leaves have gone black. There are still a few small green leaves, the newest ones. My theory is that I have over-fed the plant, with the wormery liquid feed. I can’t come up with any other explanation. Interesting.
Wednesday 15 October 2008
A rainy gloomy day and one of the rare days when I didn’t walk round the garden. But I’ve now brought the Yucca Elephantides indoors for the winter. Not sure how it will react - it’s been outside in all weathers for several years. I’m feeding the indoor plants with the wormery liquid feed. So far, the effects have been very beneficial.
Tuesday 14 October 2008
Autumn is well and truly underway. The orange and brown leaves from the Horse Chestnut tree are starting to carpet the top garden. I’ve noticed that the spiders seem more active than usual. There are extensive webs around the garden. It amazes me how these creatures are able to manage the acrobatics and aeronautics that must surely be needed to attach their webs in the most inaccessible places.
Monday 13 October 2008
Today I found another mushroom growing in the pine needles under the big Fir tree. It’s a different kind to the earlier ones. The cap is smooth with a kind of sheen, and has a pale mauve hue. What I can see of the stalk is also tinged mauve. I’ve no idea of the correct name; I don’t think it is what we used to call a Blue Stale. I’ll check it out in my mushroom ID books.
Friday 10 October 2008
The three compost bins are full, after the addition of recent weeding. But they won’t stay full for long. No matter how much is added to them, they always reduce. I sometimes think I’ve discovered the answer to the waste disposal problem – bottomless compost bins impossible to fill. This year I haven’t even taken any finished compost out. It will be a really rich product, I hope, when it’s eventually used.
Thursday 9 October 2008
A few late blackberries have ripened on the canes on the top fence. These canes have been overgrown by the Russian Vine. I think I shall get rid of them before next year. A shame, because in principle it was quite a good idea. But the Russian Vine has done an excellent screening job, and gets (or rather, takes) priority. The other blackberries near the apple trees have failed badly this year, setting hardly any fruit.
Wednesday 8 October 2008
I spotted a blue tit flitting in the trees this morning. A rare sighting these days. There have been very few birds around since early in the year. Just the odd blackbird. Even the magpies have vanished, and the pigeons are scarce.
Tuesday 7 October 2008
The wormery continues to thrive. It’s been running for over a year now, and is more active than it has ever been. A key indicator is the quantity of liquid feed produced. I can draw off a useful amount, say about 200 ml, each week, or sometimes more frequently. This brown liquid is diluted by adding 10 times the amount of water, before using it on plants indoors and outside. The production of the rich dark compost is slower. I’ve so far had one tray full in the first year. I’m wondering if this overall level of worm activity will continue as the weather gets colder. I expect it will decline substantially.
Monday 6 October 2008
Leaves are now beginning to change colour on the trees, and are falling ever more copiously, no doubt triggered by the recent colder spell and the rapidly shortening days. The Russian Vine is shedding leaves. I tasted one of the small green grapes on the Grape Vine. Tart. They will not ripen now.
Friday 3 October 2008
It’s turned really cold today. A touch of winter. The two Foxglove plants I set in the woodland area have grown very well. Both have produced vigorous clumps. I wonder if they will give good displays next year. The Ice Plants - Sedum Spectabile – are all in flower, and give a welcome splash of colour, mauve, to the autumn borders. Walking round the top of the garden today, I marvelled at how the Russian Vine has extended its reach along the whole of the top fence. It has covered and outgrown even the blackberry canes.
Thursday 2 October 2008
Getting colder, and rain on the way it seems. It’s been a disappointing summer, much like last year. Somehow all the wet weather has restricted both gardening and use and enjoyment of the garden for sitting out and generally pottering about. A shame. The autumn is also proving to be disappointing. Just a couple of days of autumnal mellowness. Though late yesterday evening there was a thin mist descending. Perhaps time to think about indoor plants. I’m using the worm feed liquid to feed the three potted plants on the front window ledge. Soon I shall bring the large Yucca indoors, the first time for a good few years.
Wednesday 1 October 2008
This morning for the first time I spotted a squirrel on the front lawn. She did the typical squirrel antics, then made for the drive and on to the pavement. I held my breath. Would she stray into the road, which is busy? Yes. She darted into the road. In a flash she was safely on the opposite pavement and into a garden. Fortunately, there was a quiet minute or so with no traffic. Come to think of it, I can’t recall ever seeing a dead squirrel on a road. It made a change from the squirrels’ current obsession with scraping out holes, often quite deep ones, in the back lawns.
Tuesday 30 September 2008
The Dahlias continue to flower, a very large yellow ‘cactus’ variety, and a smaller purple one. The Michaelmas Daisies are looking fine. There are more bunches of grapes on the vine than I thought, but the fruits are all still small and green. I would say there’s no chance of them ripening, barring a spectacular run of warm days in October, which isn’t going to happen.
Monday 29 September 2008
I mowed all the lawns at the weekend. They look in good shape, green and quite lush, despite neglect mowing and feeding over the summer months. Or perhaps because of the neglect. Sometimes over-zealous mowing too close doesn’t help. I’ve also stated tidying and weeding the front borders, which have become overgrown. It’s not all bad; the self-set Feverfew is in flower and the daisy-like blooms are attractive. I don’t think we’ve lost any plants. The ferns look fine.
Friday 26 September 2008
A return, no doubt just briefly, to the sunnier balmy weather of last weekend. The absence of bird life in the garden this summer continues, and is both a mystery and a disappointment. I’m not planning to put in any additional bulbs in the garden for next spring. An idea I have considered is to transplant a few snowdrops and bluebells to under the big Fir. I have already put snowdrops in the lawn, near the meadow patch, which should be a welcome sight in the new year.
Thursday 25 September 2008
Another large mushroom has appeared overnight! Similar to the first one, and in the same place, under the big Fir, in the fallen pine needles. I was so pleased to see it, I watered it, washing the soil and debris off the cap to show its pristine whiteness. One advantage, quite a worthwhile one, of neglecting weeding in the garden is that it allows all sorts of self-set plants to grow. I spotted a well-developed Rue plantlet today. Digging it up carefully to pot it, I came across another four smaller Rue self-sets. All are now in pots on the patio.
Wednesday 24 September 2008
The New Dawn rose is giving a late show with several blooms appearing. This is rather surprising for late September. I wonder if it’s a result of recent feeding with the wormery liquid. Maybe. This liquid does seem remarkably potent. The Dahlias are still in bloom, but no surprise there, they will carry on until cut down and blackened by the first frosts.
Tuesday 23 September 2008
The apple harvest is good, for a tree that is some 70 years old, I believe. I pick up the fallen apples each day, and we use those. The Michaelmas Daisies are in full bloom now. The other day I spotted a huge (well, quite big) dragonfly buzzing around the garden. Evidently from the pond in the next garden. It’s the first time I can recall seeing a dragonfly here.
Monday 22 September 2008
The wormery continues to work well. It has settled down into an excellent production rhythm of liquid feed, which I have used on indoor plants, potted plants and to feed the New Dawn rose, and the Angelica. Today is the first day of autumn. Now the nights will be longer than the days. There is still green all around, although the first signs of autumn colours are showing. The lawns need another cut.
Friday 19 September 2008
The two grow-bags on the patio have come to the end of their life growing courgettes. I’ve composted the remaining plants, and tipped the growing medium out onto the top garden. It’s been an interesting and useful exercise. Next year I shall try to start things earlier in the season. The last rhubarb harvest has been gathered, and it’s a fine one. A bit of pruning of the lower branches of the big Fir has made the side path more accessible, and minimised the risk of bumped heads.
Thursday 18 September 2008
I repotted the Yucca Elephantides today, prior to bringing it indoors over winter. I was surprised to find that the root system had already expanded to fill the old pot, which was itself a size up from the original. This plant is looking much greener and healthier. It’s amazing it has survived at all through winters outside in all weathers, and general neglect. A tough species obviously.
Wednesday 17 September 2008
I saw a few more fungi in the garden today. Small toadstools, in the lawn. The grapes are still small and green, with no chance at all now of ripening before the frosts arrive. Generally, the growing season for fruit and vegetables is over. I shall have to get rid of the grow-bags, there aren’t going to be any more courgettes this year. The ones I planted in the open garden were a failure. I’m not sure why, maybe I put them out too late. There is a good crop of late rhubarb to harvest, and the apples are looking good.
Tuesday 16 September 2008
When I took my walk down the garden path this morning I came across a cardboard carton on the ground under the big Fir, broken open with a light brown powder scattered around. On inspection it was a bone meal packet. It looked like one I use. Surely not. I walked back to the garage to check. Mine was missing. Back down the garden path, and I spotted a trail of the light brown powder - bone meal – all the way down the path to the broken carton. I picked up the carton. There were claw holes. It looks like a fox had got into the garage by the gap under the door, dragged the bone meal carton down the path, and ripped it open. Foxes seem to home in on bonemeal. I’ve noticed how they scratch up earth around plants when I’ve used bone meal as a planting fertiliser.
Monday 15 September 2008
The Ice Plant - Sedum Spectabile – is making a nice splash of autumn colour. There are three plants in bloom. The first flower of the Michaelmas Daisy is now fully open. The days are rapidly shortening as autumn progresses. I’ve brought the re-potted cactus indoors for the first time ever. It has been left neglected to survive main winters outside. I intend re-potting the Large Yucca, for the second time this year, and also bringing it indoors over the winter. It will need a very large terracotta pot, and possibly a decorative bowl, although I rather prefer the plain terracotta.
Friday 12 September 2008
No new mushrooms appeared overnight, but the new one yesterday already has a piece missing. And this afternoon I caught a squirrel red-handed – scampering along the fence top towards our little woodland area with a conker in its paws. No surprise of course. The Michaelmas Daisy is coming into bloom and has revealed its hand – it isn’t my pale lilac variety, but the brighter mauve plant. So my favourite has perished since last year. I’ll try to get a quick replacement.
Thursday 11 September 2008
A second mushroom appeared today. It’s also under the big Fir tree, growing up through the pine needles. It’s more like a mushroom or toadstool, a rather shiny translucent-looking cap on a thin stem. The first mushroom has already been chewed away by some creature partial to fungi, probably a slug, snail or a squirrel. The squirrels have become very active lately.
Wednesday 10 September 2008
It was only a matter of time before the first fungi appeared. Usually around the base of the big Fir tree, in the ground covering of pine needles. The wet summer and the milder weather recently inevitably produced the first mushroom. It’s about five cm across, dome-shaped and not fully emerged from the ground. I don’t know its name. Probably the first of many.
Tuesday 9 September 2008
There’s a fine crop of apples ripening on the James Grieve tree. And a heavy late crop of rhubarb ready for picking soon. The blackberries are a big disappointment. Very few have set properly. I don’t know what the problem is. Too few honey bees?
Monday 8 September 2008
More squirrel sightings yesterday and today. And today I found a discarded conker casing – the green spikey case that contains the shiny conker – on the ground in the woodland area. There are also many little holes scraped out around the base of the big Fir, and in the lawn. Attempts to squirrel away conkers for the winter, I’m sure. Between the Russian Vine and the Rose Arch I found an extensive spider’s web, with a huge spider sitting at the centre. The web would have looked impressive, picked out in white frost on a crisp blue winter’s day. Seems very distant from the dismal grey rainy days we are still getting.
Friday 5 September 2008
I spotted a squirrel today, running along a neighbour’s fence. The first sighting for many weeks. I’ve also discovered a load of discarded conker shells scattered over the ground at the top south-west corner. Clearly some creature has been busy feasting. Maybe a sign of a hard winter to follow this wet wet summer.
Thursday 4 September 2008
We have got self-set ivy growing up the trunk of the big Fir tree. I call it the big Fir tree, actually it’s a Cypresses Leylandii. The ivy has now reached about five feet up the trunk at its maximum height. I think it’s an added feature in the garden. Certainly, if we ever decide to cut the Fir down, we’ll have a ready made natural screen in place over the stump.
Wednesday 3 September 2008
I got rid of the last of the old Rosemary bushes this afternoon. It was still growing well, but had become straggly and was badly sited near the north facing fence, and so getting little sun. All of the bush has been added to the log and branch pile in the woodland area. In due course I shall plant out the new Rosemary cuttings, when they have become more established. The rainy weather is continuing into September. It’s been largely sunshine and showers today.
Tuesday 2 September 2008
I haven’t seen a squirrel in the garden for ages. But this morning, under the big fir tree, I spotted one or two empty conker shells lying on the ground. The conkers had been neatly removed. All the hallmarks of squirrel activity. The squirrels live in the horse chestnut trees around here, so why they would bring the conkers into the garden to eat is odd.
Monday 1 September 2008
Not the first day of autumn, that’s 22 September, but certainly autumn is in the air. Not a promising start today, grey, more cloud, and rain threatened. An Indian Summer would be nice, and would compensate a bit for the awful summer. I mowed the lawns at last at the weekend. I raised the cut height to 3.7 cm, and that should help avoid serious browning. The grass had become far too long. Anyway, it’s now all looking fairly tidy. It will need another cut or two to get back into anything approaching pristine condition.
Friday 29 August 2008
There are just two courgettes on the plants, a large one, and a small one. I suspect these are the final two we shall have this year. The grow-bag plants are suffering from a leaf mould, and are generally dying. Those in the top garden have not yet set any fruit, and I fear it is too late to start now, with autumn on the way. There’s a nice display of yellow and purple dahlias, and no sign yet of the Michaelmas Daisies flowering. What has surprised me this summer has been the absence of the squirrels, and the usual bird visitors. No robins, no blue tits, very few birds of any description, apart from pigeons and the occasional blackbird. A silent garden. Strange.
Thursday 28 August 2008
The wormery is thriving. Today I started a new tray, the top one, with a dollop of kitchen waste I’d saved in my new compost caddy which we keep in the kitchen. The two lower trays are very active with worms. The wormery is now producing regular quantities of liquid feed. I dilute this, about ten to one parts, and have used it today to feed the Aloe Vera and the baby Yucca Elephantides which are in the front window, getting the morning sun. Except we’ve hardly seen any sun for weeks.
Wednesday 27 August 2008
The Angelica has put on a late growth spurt. The purple stem base is thick - about three inches across, and reminiscent of the Lovage stems. Perhaps these two plants are related, they do have a number of features in common. The Michaelmas Daisies are not in bloom, so I’m still waiting to discover which of the two varieties has survived. In any case, it’s far too early for Michaelmas Daisies. They used to flower around October and even into November.
Tuesday 26 August 2008
I’ve got rid of the old Rosemary bush near the patio. It had grown straggly and woody although still producing plenty of fresh shoots. It was about twenty years old. I easily cut through the stems with the heavy duty pruner. The root system was quite rotten. All the branches are now added to the log piles in the woodland area. The new cuttings are growing well, and I shall have plenty of replacement Rosemary bushes before long.
Monday 25 August 2008
Several of the courgette plants in the grow-bags on the patio have a grey mould spreading over the leaves. I wonder if this is terminal, or just a temporary result of the awful wet weather this August? I’ve noticed a hole dug under the side fence near the big fir. It can only be the work of a fox. I haven’t seen any foxes in the garden for a long time. Occasionally in the dead of night I hear barking, and the sound of claws on the side gate, like a creature scrambling over.
Friday 22 August 2008
The Russian Vine has done a magnificent job completely covering the corrugated iron fence at the top of the garden. It looks fine, and is a nice backdrop to the roses on the arch. Part of the credit is also due to the blackberry canes towards the north side, but even they are in danger of being covered by the vine.
Thursday 21 August 2008
I have found a dead bird near the foot of the big fir tree. Looks like a fledgling, probably a pigeon or a magpie. Very soon it was covered in a humming seething mass of flies, each with a green sheen. It seems late for fledglings, though I imagine this was from a second brood.
Wednesday 20 August 2008
This morning was sunny, dry and pleasant, so I sat awhile on the top garden seat. It’s not really been possible to do this for ages because of the long run of unseasonable weather. I saw just one of the tiny frogs hopping around. The Eva Harkness rose is a pathetic leafless and flowerless stem. Compassion has fared better, and looks reasonably healthy. There are a few Shasta Daisies still in bloom. Looks like a good crop of apples. The garden is overgrown and neglected. It’s now impossible to get along the stepping stones between the vine and the gooseberry bush. The parsley plant has gone. More small green fruits on the vines than I expected but they stand no chance of ripening unless we are due a long Indian Summer, which I can’t see happening.
Tuesday 19 August 2008
The courgette / marrow plants are still producing fruits, but they are starting to fade. The only fruits have come from the plants in the growbags on the patio. None of the plants at the top garden have set fruits. I suspect it is because they are in a location that is too shady.
Monday 18 August 2008
I discovered about a dozen tiny frogs or toads at the top of the garden today. They are really small. About one centimetre long, and only noticeable when they jumped a short distance. I saw one, then another, and realised this part of the garden was practically infested with the creatures. It’s good news, Perhaps they are attracted by the abundance of insects in the garden living around the wood piles. I imagine they originate and breed in the pond in the garden next door. But I’m not sure whether they are actually toads or frogs. I shall watch out for them.
Friday 15 August 2008
I used to have two small clumps of Michaelmas Daisies - lovely flowers, late in the season. They were the traditional pale blue variety, and the larger mauve plants. My preference has always been for the traditional ones. Two years ago I transplanted them, and last year it looked as though both varieties had failed. But it seems a bit more hopeful this year; hidden behind the Borage self-sets are what look like Michaelmas Daisies. I hope they are the pale blue ones.
Thursday 14 August 2008
The dreadful August summer weather continues. We had a teatime torrential downpour today. The garden is fresh and green, but also overgrown. The continuously wet grass has prevented mowing and the grass is far too high. It hasn’t been warm or dry enough to enjoy a pleasant evening sitting in the garden for a long time now. And already the evening are just starting to draw in noticeably.
Wednesday 13 August 2008
The wormery is now producing a steady and significant quantity of liquid feed for the garden, in addition to the first try of compost. I’ve been diluting the liquid with rainwater and using it to feed the courgettes, rhubarb, dahlias, yuccas, and the hydrangea, euphorbia and rosemary cuttings. The wormery is thriving, with plenty of worm activity. It has proved a valuable supply of compost and feed.
Tuesday 12 August 2008
The Russian Vine I moved to the top fence last year has done a truly magnificent job covering and screening the eyesore corrugated iron section of the fence. It’s now completely hidden, and the fence has been transformed into a lovely dense green mass, which I hope will attract wildlife. The Vine is also flowering in places. Part of the success is also due to the honeysuckle, clematis and the blackberry canes – but the lion’s share is for the Russian Vine.
Monday 11 August 2008
I don’t know why some of the blackberries have not properly set and have shrivelled up. It’s patchy; there are some quite nice blackberries already ripened, but the majority have failed. There was a hint of this problem last year. I wonder whether it’s the rainy conditions, which are similar this August to August last year. It’s convenient to have a small blackberry patch, though locally there are many good blackberry bushes growing in the hedgerows.
Friday 8 August 2008
The rainy humid conditions continue, and the gardens are really out of control, lawns, weeds, plants generally. The most urgent job is to mow the lawns. I’ll have to raise the cut height to avoid browning when the grass height is reduced too drastically. I think no more than a third off is advisable. Trouble is, I need dry grass and at the moment it doesn’t have time to dry before the next rain.
Thursday 7 August 2008
A tiny offshoot that I rescued from one of two Yucca Elephantipes that I’d left outside in all weathers for years has amazingly survived. It had just a thin yellowish shoot and looked on the point of expiring, but given sun, warmth and dry conditions indoors plus feeding, it has now produced strong green leaves and the stem is growing. The second plant is still outside, but re-potting and feeding has given it a much healthier appearance. They are essentially house plants. I was stirred from neglecting them when I saw the price of the mature Yucca plants at the garden centre. They need to be indoors when the cooler autumn days arrive. Shows what TLC can achieve.
Wednesday 6 August 2008
Slugs and snails are still active in quite large number around the garden. I was surprised at the clusters of snails sheltering under the rhubarb leaves and on the stems and foliage of the vines and globe artichoke. The summer has turned quite wet apart from one week of hot dry conditions, ideal slug weather. And no thrushes or hedgehogs seen in the garden these days to help keep numbers down.
Tuesday 5 August 2008
The herbs and alpines that I introduced last year have all flourished. Hyssop, Marshmallow, Comfrey, Cerastium, Bergamot, and several alpines on the front wall and the rockery. The old apple tree is bearing a good crop again. An amazing tree, overshadowed by the laurel, and around sixty or seventy years old, but the apples are excellent - James Grieve I believe.
Monday 4 August 2008
The wormery is working at full throttle. I checked the lower tray today. All the recently added waste had gone and was replaced by a rich compost. I’m now adding fresh kitchen waste to the second tray, and worms are also active there. The sump had compost in the form of a thick sludge, with just three live worms and the remains of two dead ones. I washed it out with rainwater, and fed the brown liquid to the courgettes and the rhubarb. A nice yellow and mauve display from the dahlias is brightening up the south border.
Friday 1 August 2008
I picked more redcurrants today. They are now fully ripened, and need harvesting. It’s a bit of a fiddly job. In about ten minutes I collected just over 1lb of redcurrants, still on the stalks. Then the tedious job of washing the berries, and stripping them from the stalks. I don’t think there’s a fast way of doing this. It took half an hour to finish the job. I then put the redcurrants in a container and into the freezer. I need to repeat this process tomorrow and get the redcurrant harvest, which is a prolific one, in the freezer. Then the gooseberries need urgent harvesting.
Thursday 31 July 2008
The courgettes are still producing more fruits, following the first harvesting. It pays to pick them when they are smallish. I’ve noticed that if a courgette grows to the size of a small marrow, when it’s taken the plant seems to suffer more of a setback and is a bit slow setting the next fruits. And the smaller the courgettes are when cooked the tastier they are.
Wednesday 30 July 2008
The roses I introduced a couple of years ago on the arch have both been disappointing this year. Especially Ena Harkness; virtually leafless, and producing just a couple of blooms. Compassion has been more prolific, and looks reasonably healthy, but not up to previous years. The fact is roses don’t seem to like my garden. Black spot is prevalent. I suppose New Dawn is an exception. We had a good show this year, but again, not up to the spectacular displays of previous years.
Tuesday 29 July 2008
The dahlias are just coming into flower. I seem to have lost several plants since last year. So far just a single purple flower, and one yellow. Not much of a display yet. The gardens look overgrown and in desperate need of weeding and tidying.
Monday 28 July 2008
Over a week now of hot weather. No rain but a thunderstorm threatened tonight. I’ve neglected the lawns, they are badly in need of a mow, and a feed. However, they are a lush green. My experiment with freezing fresh berries showed that the gooseberries retain their shape quite well, but the redcurrants turn soft with lots of juice. Either way, I shall use freezing to preserve the current glut.
Friday 25 July 2008
I’ve had two houseplants - palms – left outside for several years, though all weathers. They have been thoroughly neglected, and so have slowly but surely deteriorated. I decided a month or so ago to take some action. One of the plants had basically expired, apart from a tiny off-shoot which seemed as though it might still be alive. I re-potted the off-shoot, and composted the remainder of this plant. The second plant had some life left in it, so I have given it careful attention, watering and feeding and then re-potting. Glad to say that both are looking promising. The little off-shoot has become greener, and started to grow. I’ve now brought it indoors in a sunny window.
Thursday 24 July 2008
The Buddleia is in bloom. Those deep purple flowers have such a heady sweet scent, it’s hardly surprising bees find the plant so attractive. With Borage and Hyssop, the bees here are having a feast. Interestingly, the flowers of all of these plants are blue / purple.
Wednesday 23 July 2008
Today I saw something move among the plants in the top garden. On a closer look I spotted a tiny frog jumping away. It really was very small - about one cm long. Then in the early evening I disturbed an adult frog, close to the same place. Later, while I was sitting quietly enjoying the calm warm evening, a little blackish creature, the size of a mouse, scurried from under the corner of the fence into the cover of the foxgloves. I don’t think it was a mouse, it wasn’t the distinctive grey colouring. I suppose whatever it was, it might have been heading towards the two piles of logs and branches. If I was a small wild creature in the garden, that’s where I would live.
Tuesday 22 July 2008
One of those lovely warm sunny still balmy July evenings. I sat on the bench at the top of the garden for ages and watched the swifts circling, gliding and screeching high above. Insects of all kinds on the wing. Large bumble bees you could see thirty feet off the ground. There’s something about a July evening that’s quite different to June or August.
Monday 21 July 2008
We’ve harvested our first courgette this year, and eaten it. Excellent. I’m carrying out an experiment to see if the redcurrants and gooseberries will freeze successfully. The redcurrant crop is superb, yet again. Over the years we’ve had some wonderful harvests. The gooseberries are not quite as prolific as last year, but not far behind.
Friday 18 July 2008
The Bergamot is in flower. Attractive red flowers, with a ragged appearance, and quite a strong perfume. The Marshmallow is also flowering. It has made a much taller plant than I expected, about four feet or more, with smallish delicate white and pink flowers. The leaves are soft and downy. This plant prefers damp soil conditions, so I have made a special effort to keep it well watered. The Cotton Lavender and the Hyssop are also thriving in this border. Altogether giving a pleasing appearance.
Thursday 17 July 2008
I’ve taken fourteen Rosemary cuttings from the very old bush near the patio. Eight of these cuttings are now planted in the top garden, and the other six in pots on the patio. I expect about half a dozen to take root and thrive. Once that has happened, I will get rid of the old bush. It must be at least twenty years old, and has a branched thick woody stem about three or four inches diameter. When it’s gone I can redevelop and replant this border end.
Wednesday 16 July 2008
Tomorrow is one year since I set up the wormery. It’s still working well, and today I used the first compost. I’ve used it to mulch and feed pots containing recent plantings, the growbags and several repotted plants. This is a bit experimental. I’m wondering how effective it will be. The liquid feed has been produced for several months now. I’ve been using it on a variety of plants in the garden. Most of the compost is still in the wormery lower tray, and a fair number of worms are still working there. Before long it may be possible to empty this tray completely and use the finished load of compost.
Tuesday 15 July 2008 St Swithin’s Day
No rain here so far today, so the prospects for the next forty days are still hopeful. The courgettes are coming on well. How large those yellow flowers are! Like trumpets. All the better to guide the bees in, of course. I think the first courgette fruits (are courgettes fruits?) have formed, and we could be picking our first crop soon.
Monday 14 July 2008
The lawns are looking in quite good shape. The last three cuts have been down to 17 mm, the lowest for years, and possibly a shade too low. This low cut has helped reduce the vitality of the patches of coarse grass and helped the finer grasses, but has robbed the lawns of their lush greenness. I will probably raise the cut height 5 mm at the next cut due soon. The little meadow grass area has been a pleasure to observe. I’ve spotted at least five different varieties of grasses, and some interesting wild flowers. It really needs the first mow now most of the grasses and flowers have seeded. It would be nice to cut it using the sickle, but I haven’t been able to find a suitable grindstone to sharpen it. Probably use the shears.
Friday 11 July 2008
The dahlias are doing well in this wet weather. The flower buds have formed, and we should have blooms before July is out. I seem to have lost a couple of the dahlias over the winter, probably through tuber rot. The wormery is thriving. The first tray full of compost will be ready soon. I’m just waiting for all the worms to migrate from this tray, which they seem reluctant to do.
Thursday 10 July 2008
Two of the marrows / courgettes are now in flower. It shouldn’t be long before we have some fruits. The old apple tree, which I believe is James Grieve, has a good crop, if there isn’t a heavy shedding of fruits this month. The new apple tree with three varieties looks completely barren this year, likewise the pear tree.
Wednesday 9 July 2008
This month so far has been very wet and cool. It’s been raining continuously all day today. I haven’t really kept up with the weeds. The gardens are looking quite untidy and overgrown.
Tuesday 8 July 2008
Two of the Hostas will soon be in flower. Both August Moon and So Sweet have produced long flower stalks with what look like white flowers about to open. The position in shade of these plants seems to be suitable. The foliage is healthy. The main drawback is the dryness of the soil, since this shady spot is shielded from rain by the overhanging trees and bushes, which also extract much of the soil moisture. So they need plenty of watering, not a major problem in such a small area.
Monday 7 July 2008
The courgette and marrow plants are growing rapidly. Some are on the patio in growbags, the rest are in a couple of sites in the top garden. Hopefully a good harvest ahead. Yesterday a kind neighbour gave me a little hydrangea cutting in a pot. I have been under the impression that hydrangeas dislike alkaline soils, which we have here. I’ll need to be careful if I plant it out. Maybe best to keep it potted. The Shasta Daisies are in bloom. And the self-set Borage.
Friday 4 July 2008
Self-set plants are a sort of bonus. They’re welcome whether the seeds are from our own garden, or introductions from outside by wind or birds. A third option has now appeared. We’ve got single plants of oats and wheat. I’m fairly sure they come from the wild bird seed put out for the birds, and carried by birds from the feeder. It’s probably a common thing. Last week I visited a friend’s farm nearly a hundred miles away, and a single wheat plant was growing by the farmhouse door.
Thursday 3 July 2008
We’ve had an excellent crop of rhubarb this year, including early forced sticks. The single clump really needs dividing for next year. Gooseberries are looking good, though possibly a lighter crop than the bumper harvest last year. Redcurrants are almost ripe for picking. The blackberries seem to be doing well, and the remaining blackcurrant is fruiting. I ought to take cuttings. This soft fruit is a brilliant crop for a small plot. The grape vines look disappointing; last year was a poor year for grapes, after the wonderful crop in 2006.
Wednesday 2 July 2008
A welcome feature of the garden is the woodland area, especially the shade it provides on hot summer days. It’s a small area, just five bushes and trees, a taste of a woodland edge. I’ve tried to use this shade for a shady garden. I’ve now got four hostas, two foxgloves, two ferns and several feverfew plants. One problem is maintaining a moist damp soil. The trees extract serious amounts of water from the soil, and shelter it from rain, so watering is important, but not a major difficulty.
Tuesday 1 July 2008
I’m restarting gardenBlog after a few months’ rest. Today is hot, possibly the hottest day of the year, around the mid 20’s C. Needless to say, the Russian Vine has continued to make spectacular progress. The eyesore corrugated iron fence is covered except for one small area, which won’t be long. The gardens are approaching that ‘high summer’ look. Not quite there yet. A pretty display with the Sweet William ‘Indian Carpet’. Compassion and New Dawn are in full magnificent bloom, but Ena Harkness is almost leafless and clearly in trouble. Dahlias not yet in bloom, but lush foliage. A sad absence of many of the familiar small birds. No robins for ages. Not many blue tits even. The magpies are ever present, often in their furious noisy squabbles.
Friday 22 February 2008
I bought a couple of bags of farmyard manure. I’m not sure how close it’s been to a farmyard, but it has proved very effective in the garden over the past year. I wanted it principally to pile on the rhubarb crowns which are just starting to emerge. There are four crowns, more than last year I think, which hopefully promises an even more prolific crop, and last year was excellent. One of the bags, at twice the price, is pelletted. Not sure this is good value, but I shall give it a trial. The snowdrops are still in full display, and the daffodils are almost but not quite in bloom.
Monday 18 February 2008
It’s the time of year when I look closely for evidence in the garden that old favourites are appearing again. The Peonies are on their way. But no sign yet of Lovage. Last year I dug up the long-established clump, and re-set about five new smaller plants. They grew quite well last year, not as vigorous as they used to be, but quite strongly. I hope the disturbance hasn’t lost them. I’ve never been able to get my Foxgloves to self-seed. So once again I live in hope, not digging the soil where they grew last year, fondly hoping to spot a few seedlings. No luck so far. The bluebells are growing well, and one purple crocus has bloomed.
Thursday 14 February 2008
The snowdrops are now at their peak, making a lovely display. There are just a few in the lawn near the Box tree. Today I rounded up a few more stray snowdrops and planted them in the lawn around the ones already there. Next year hopefully they will produce a nice surprise. The lovely mild sunny weather continues. The soil is now quite dry for February. I watered in the new Cowslips and Lady’s Smocks. A pleasant hour pottering around the garden, tidying up and noting what is happening. Pleased to see both Honeysuckles, and the Clematis, look as though they have survived the winter. Three rhubarb crowns are pushing up.
Wednesday 13 February 2008
Taking advantage of the lovely Spring-like weather, I did a bit of gardening yesterday. Divided more of the Cowslips, and the Lady’s Smock. I also pruned and cut out the deadwood from one of the blackberry canes, or rather group of canes, supported by a framework of wooden posts. These plants did not produce much usable fruit last year, nor did the grapevines. I shall avoid pruning the vines this year. The severe pruning early last year had a detrimental effect on the fruiting.
Tuesday 12 February 2008
No halt yet to the smooth progress towards Spring. A beautiful blue day. The rhubarb, which had died right back to ground level, is showing the new stems just pushing through. I will cover it with farmyard manure soon. The Angelica had never died back, and is looking ready to put on a spurt of new growth soon. The garden needs attention to tidy up after the winter months. I’m always a bit reluctant to go in too hard, and risk destroying valuable new seedlings. It’s often surprising what appears, if you just let things start off in Spring without too much disturbance.
Monday 11 February 2008
The snowdrops are approaching the peak of their display, I think. They look very good, in eleven clumps. Daffodils not yet out, but probably will be in a couple of weeks. And a few crocuses, mixed in with the snowdrops. It actually sets them off, surrounded by white. The bluebells are pushing through. And I noticed today the first tiny new green shoots on the Russian Vine. This was a success story last year. A successful transplant, and then the usual rapid growth which covered the unsightly top corrugated iron fence. But still very few garden birds of any kind. I wonder if the squirrels have anything to do with it? Raiding nests last year?
Friday 8 February 2008
Another sign of an early spring; the Arabis Ferdinandi Coburgii has produced numerous flower stalks, which will soon be in flower with the white blooms. It’s an excellent subject for a wall garden. I need to set down a garden plan for the year. One item will be to do some maintenance work on the little woodland area. I cleared some of the dead branches last summer, but there are more that need pruning. I may try to redesign the whole area, to see if I can make it more redolent of a woodland edge habitat.
Thursday 7 February 2008
First sighting of a fox in the garden for a long time. It happened late afternoon, just as dusk was falling. I saw a black and white cat scampering down the garden path and then straight up the fence. Obviously in a hurry. A few seconds later revealed why. A fox was on patrol. It wasn’t in the least interested in chasing the cat. Scouting around near the woodland area, then it trotted towards the house, and back along the flower border to the trees again. It was a large creature, looked well fed. Or maybe a pregnant vixen? In any case, a welcome return to our garden. I wonder if the den is close by?
Wednesday 6 February 2008
Despite the apparent absence of our usual garden birds, the seed in the feeder hanging from the birdtable has gradually dwindled to the bottom. So I topped it up today. I also braved the bitter cold to put a few peanuts for the squirrels in their broken feeder. It’s quite amazing how much of the wood they have chewed away. Spring is surely very early this year. I saw the first crocus, yellow, today, amid one of the clusters of snowdrops. Perhaps it was encouraged to flower by its white companions.
Tuesday 5 February 2008
I tidied the little clump of Lady’s Smock. Helxine had somehow encroached on the clump, and would very soon choke it, given the invasive habit of Helxine. The Lady’s Smock is a successful introduction of a native wild flower into the garden, producing delicate pink flowers. I need to subdivide the clump and establish a reserve elsewhere in the garden. The daffodils continue to grow apace. At this rate, they will be in bloom well before the end of February.
Monday 4 February 2008
The lawns are looking in good shape, a nice fresh green colour, unlike the usual grey-green of winter. They have clearly benefited from the care lavished on them last year with regular mowing with the new mower; re-seeding the bare patches, keeping the borders free of overhanging plants, and the regular feeding during the Spring, Summer and then the autumn feed. Patches of incursion by the Helxine (‘Mind Your Own Business’) are still a small problem, which I shall tackle this year.
Friday 1 February 2008
A blue sunny crisp morning in the garden. Evidence of a visit by the fox. Holes scraped out in several places, which are much too large for squirrels or cats. The self-set ivy under the pine is advancing steadily up the trunk. If this progress is maintained, an ivy-covered trunk may be an attractive feature, and might encourage wildlife. I’ve no idea if any creatures are taking refuge in the log and branch piles in the woodland area. I shalln’t pull them apart to find out. Best just to leave them to stabilise into a secure hiding place for whatever creatures can benefit.
Thursday 31 January 2008
It’s not just my view that the daffodils are very early this year. A visitor made the same observation this morning. A lovely morning, with that spring freshness - ozone? - in the air. Even the Lily of the Valley are pushing the first shoots through. Still a remarkable absence of garden birds. It’s surprising. Just the odd one now and then. Nothing like the groups of blue tits and coal tits feeding voraciously at the bird table. Perhaps they are all busy looking for nesting sites.
Wednesday 30 January 2008
The days are just starting to get discernibly longer. A feeling that Spring is round the corner. I noticed that the Angelica is still green. Curious how plants that I would have expected to die right back during the winter have not done so this year. The Salad Burnet is another. I really need to divide the cowslips. They have formed very large clumps. Lovely flowers. More kitchen waste into the wormery today. I found a tiny baby worm on the inside lid.
Tuesday 29 January 2008
I noticed this morning a few snowdrops in the lawn. They look so good, it’s worth planting more for next year. The daffodils and tulips I planted in the autumn are already well on their way. The daffodil unopened flower heads are clearly visible. It seems a bit early. Though a good while yet before they bloom.
Monday 28 January 2008
More snowdrops are coming into bloom, and the overall appearance is looking quite good. In the front garden, it’s a drift along the lawn curve, rather than the three separate clusters last year. I think that the peak of the display is some time ahead. I’ve noticed that there are stirrings of growth elsewhere. The chives which had died right back are now showing fresh green shoots pushing through. The Salad Burnet has never died back; it’s as green as ever. All through the winter. That’s surely odd, for a deciduous plant.
Friday 25 January 2008
You don’t very often see a squirrel fall down! But this morning a squirrel - a young one I think – was attempting to get at the peanuts in the new metal feeder, when suddenly it fell. Before hitting the ground it did several somersaults, and landed on its feet. More snowdrops are out, and the collective effect in the front garden is beginning to be quite evocative. Not yet equalling last year’s display, but there’s time yet. A nice touch for Burn’s Night.
Thursday 24 January 2008
The Fat Snax has gone! The new wire cage is empty! The little green plastic string bag which contained the Snax was lying empty on the lawn, till it was blown away. I assume this is the handiwork of the squirrels. I checked the new peanut feeder for damage after the mauling it has received. But there’s no apparent damage. I suppose the steel wire mesh is just too tough even for those tiny razor-sharp teeth.
Wednesday 23 January 2008
The wet but quite mild weather for January continues. More snowdrops are out. I like the appealing way their flowers nod gently in the breeze. It’s a welcome sight on these dark short days. There are a lot more to come into flower, but even so the little clumps don’t seem so dense as last year. The squirrels are still attacking the new metal bird feeder. Attacking is not an exaggeration. They spend ages trying to get through the metal mesh. With some success. They are able to chip away at the peanuts, but not pick them out whole.
Tuesday 22 January 2008
This morning the squirrels have renewed their attack on the new bird feeders. Quite a determined ferocious attempt to get peanuts from the all-metal feeder. I don’t think they have damaged it, but they were able to nibble away at the nuts. They also had a go at the Fat Snax. Our robin appeared to see what was happening, and a pigeon and a sparrow. Out of pity for the squirrels I put a pile of peanuts on the path near the birdtable. Soon a squirrel was back. First he sat munching the nuts. Then the typical squirrel behaviour of scampering up the path with a nut, to find a hiding place to bury it. A scamper back to the nuts, and this repeated half a dozen times.
Monday 21 January 2008
Last year I began to take feeding the garden birds more seriously, installing a new birdtable and a variety of feeders. I’ve now made an earlier start this year on improving feeding facilities. I bought a new all metal peanut dispenser yesterday. In order to confound the squirrels who destroyed a plastic feeder last year. Also, I’ve got a new ‘Fat Snax’ retainer, which hopefully will stop the squirrels taking these items away, as if they were a sort of conker.
Friday 18 January 2008
I bought another sack of farmyard manure today, and used it to provide a mulch for the snowdrops, and the daffodils and tulips that are just starting to push through. I also tidied up the snowdrop clumps, removing the pegs and string I’ve used since the autumn to identify their position and this avoid inadvertently digging them up. It’s hardly the real stuff, smelly and straight from the farm, but there’s no doubt it has an impact on growth, both as a fertiliser and a ground cover mulch.
Thursday 17 January 2008
I’m not sure what to do about replacing the broken squirrel feeder. The squirrels chewed it to destruction. Meanwhile, they are back feeding on the birdtable. Is there a squirrel feeder that is squirrel-proof? Should I bother feeding the squirrels? More snowdrops are coming into bloom. And I noticed that the daffodils are now pushing through. Another harbinger of Spring round the corner.
Wednesday 16 January 2008
I found time to have a look at the wormery today. No obvious problems. It’s situated in the garage, out of the wet weather and protected from the worst of the cold. There are certainly plenty of worms, and they look active. The kitchen waste seems to have been eaten. So I added a generous helping of worm feed, and some lime conditioner. I will keep a regular more frequent check now. So far, I haven’t had a load of compost from the wormery, but hopefully by the time Spring arrives there will be a useful amount available.
Tuesday 15 January 2008
I haven’t checked the wormery for many weeks. I’m just relying on the abundant food supply that had built up, and a reduction in worm activity due to the cold winter weather. Hopefully, the worms are still happy. More rain. It’s difficult to get out in the garden and carry out a few jobs that need doing.
Monday 14 January 2008
At last - a visit by blue tits to the birdtable. A welcome sign of bird life in the garden. And this morning a pigeon was sitting incongruously on top of the birdtable roof. The snowdrops are out! Today the first three snowdrops are in bloom. A lovely sight. And an early harbinger of Spring. There are eleven snowdrop clusters in the gardens. At their peak, they should produce a nice display.
Friday 11 January 2008
I have seen one of our squirrels. Clearly not asleep hibernating. He or she was after the bird seed I have put on the birdtable. Seemed to be enjoying the snack. There are also many holes in the soil under the conifer, which I’m sure are dug by the squirrels trying to find their buried conkers.
Thursday 10 January 2008
Saw a robin today, near the Box tree. Otherwise, apart from magpies and a pigeon, there seems very little bird activity. I did see a small bird on the lawn which I couldn’t identify. It wasn’t a house sparrow, but rather similar appearance. Several snowdrops almost in bloom, but still not quite.
Wednesday 9 January 2008
Today we needed fresh parsley for a white fish sauce. I looked in the garden. The parsley is still green and healthy - a welcome surprise in early January. Still waiting for the first snowdrop of 2008. It won’t be very long, several blooms are on the point of coming out. I replenished the bird seed on the bird table. There is a complete absence of birds visiting the table these days. I suppose they have found a better-stocked table elsewhere. I need to check the wormery. I am assuming that in these winter days the worms don’t eat so much, and slow down. I may be wrong.
Tuesday 8 January 2008
It’s a pleasure in the January garden to see the first snowdrop in bloom. These tiny pure white flowers are welcome in the short cold winter days of the new year. In recent years I’ve tried to propagate their numbers, in both the front and back gardens. There are now about ten separate small clumps, and a few scattered single snowdrops where bulbs have gone astray. All the clumps seem to be growing strongly, and there are numerous vigorous green stems pushing through the cold earth. I’m eagerly searching for the first bloom. It won’t be long. There are a couple of plants in the front garden where the white of the unopened flowers are visible. It’s just a matter of time.
Thursday 27 December 2007
The first snowdrop is not yet in bloom, but there are many shoots a centimetre or two pushing through the soil. Today I saw a squirrel under the big conifer. And the black and white cat that is often in the garden was sitting next to the broken squirrel feeder. The cat was peering intently into the Box bush. Magpies around, making their usual chattering racket. I noticed that the compost bins are still reducing. The activity has not been stopped by the wintry weather. I wonder how the worms in the Wormery are faring?
Wednesday 26 December 2007
Boxing Day
A dry and bright Boxing Day, after what turned out to be atypical Christmas Day weather - milder and rainy. Not much activity in the garden today. The squirrels seem still to be active, judging by the new holes that appear beneath the big conifer. The perennial Sweet William is still in flower at Christmas, with small mauve flowers. and Salad Burnett remains fresh and green. That surprises me. Apart from the emerging snowdrops and peonies, the garden generally is becalmed between the old year and the spring.
Tuesday 25 December 2007
Christmas Day
A hard frost overnight, the lawns and trees are white over. When I stepped on the bare earth, the soil was hard and crunchy. I make a point of not walking on the lawns in frosty weather. I believe it doesn’t do the grass any good. There are no robins around. Where have they gone? The alpines on the new rockery which were planted in the autumn are all still doing well and looking healthy. I’m not so sure about the two sage plants in the front garden border. They both look a bit sorry.
Monday 24 December 2007
Christmas Eve
The berries have long been stripped by birds from the holly bush in the front, just a few remaining for Christmas decorations. A frosty blue morning again, with white lawns and trees. I noticed new green shoots have appeared at the base of the succulent Ice Plant - appropriately named. On close inspection, the Peonies have also started to produce new shoots. So the flora in the garden is already quietly looking ahead to the spring. Is this a bit earlier than usual? Maybe not. The recent frosts have finally cut down the chives, now lying limp on the soil. There are more scrapings and scratchings in the earth around the gardens, probably either the squirrels or foxes. The only bird seen in the garden was a lone pigeon which settled on the roof of the bird table for a minute.
Friday 21 December 2007
Another very cold morning, but not white over since this dry spell continues. I noticed that more snowdrops are pushing through, now in the back garden. Despite the frosts, some plants are still green. Salad Burnett still looks bright green and vigorous; the Angelica has not been slain by frosts. A plant pot of cacti is outside, and also surviving frost. I suppose Mexican nights may also get very cold. I dead-headed the last cowslip blooms, from the late autumn flowering.
Thursday 20 December 2007
No sign of the squirrels today. There is also a strange absence of the usual small birds in the garden. Especially the blue tits, coal tits, and the greenfinches. Where are they? I expected them in numbers at the bird table as the winter set in. I wonder if the cats, which are frequent visitors, or the squirrels, have scared them away? Or perhaps they have all found a better bird table, with superior food, somewhere else.
Wednesday 19 December 2007
We saw three squirrels in the garden today, all at the same time. One was eating the bird seed I had scattered on the path yesterday. I put a few peanuts on the path near the base of the bird table, but the squirrel didn’t return to eat them. I thought squirrels hibernated in winter? Especially in this very cold and frosty weather!
Tuesday 18 December 2007
The perennial Sweet Williams are remarkable plants. Both seem to be evergreen, and both are still flowering, just. I’ve noticed more fresh holes dug in the top garden. I think they are too large to have been made by squirrels. Most likely the foxes, though the side fence isn’t down, and I haven’t seen a fox for ages. Our robin was around again, I was moved to scattered bird food, a mixture of seeds, on the path, but the robin didn’t seem interested, neither did any other birds. The water in the bird bath is frozen. I ought to warm it up in these frosty spells.
Monday 17 December 2007
Another frosty bright early morning, icy blue sky. I noticed the first snowdrops are just pushing through. That’s a sign of hope as we approach the shortest day of the year. These first shoots are in the replanted clusters of snowdrops that I put in the front garden in the autumn. I wonder how prolific the blooms will be? On a different theme, I found fox droppings in newly scraped-out soil. There are few birds around, but a friendly robin sat on the edge of the compost bin watching me this morning, then flitted over to a bare grape vine stem. And a noisy group of six magpies, with two crows, started chattering and flapping at each other in a tree nearby.
Friday 14 December 2007
A sunny crisp frosty morning. A white frost on the lawns. I noticed this morning that the strawberry plants’ leaves have started to turn yellow. There is plenty of evidence of the squirrels digging for their buried conkers, in the form of small holes in the soil under the fir tree. I saw a squirrel running along the distant fence top in the bright sun. I wonder what creatures, if any, are taking advantage of the piles of logs, branches and twigs that I have left in the woodland area? No sign of any hedgehogs unfortunately, but I hope there are plenty of insects. It’s an ideal habitat for them, I should think.
Thursday 13 December 2007
There is little incentive to doing gardening on these wet cold dark days. There are plenty of jobs that need attention. It’s a good time for pruning. The Berberis Juliana on the front needs clipping back again. It is a very vigorous bush. There are also some bulbs that were lifted and not yet replanted. It may be too late. Though I shall try to find time to get them in the ground during a mild spell. It always seems a pity to waste any planting material.
Wednesday 12 December 2007
The garden today looks windswept. Leaves and twigs scattered over the lawns. I noticed this morning that a small group of the fungi under the fir tree has gone. The rest are still nearby. I wonder if the squirrels are partial to mushrooms? The Rosemary cuttings are still green. I’m sceptical they will survive the winter, but I live in hope. The cowslips have expanded. The clumps are now quite large, and really ought to be divided before the spring. The Ladysmock has also grown and would probably also benefit from being split into smaller plants.
Tuesday 11 December 2007
A mild morning - very mild for December – but wet. The blustery winds have stripped the remaining few leaves from the Russian Vine. The Vine did an excellent job this year screening the unsightly corrugated iron fence at the top of the garden. It established itself quickly after a rather late transplant last spring. Now the fence is revealed in all its ugliness. I really need an evergreen climber. I wonder what this might be? I noticed that a panel in the side fence has again been damaged and pushed forward. I’m sure this is evidence of fox activity during the night.
Monday 10 December 2007
The lawns are looking in quite good shape, for December. Certainly a lot healthier than this time last year. Regular mowing and feeding has been beneficial. Reseeding the bare patches has been successful. I’ve also made sure there were no overhanging plants at the lawn edges, which quickly cause the grass to die back. If I have time I may do a top dressing. I’ve found that even using just sieved garden top soil, brushed in, is effective as a top dressing, and makes a difference.
Friday 7 December 2007
The birch log containing nesting tubes for mason bees is still hanging by ropes from the vine support. I certainly saw bees taking an interest in the summer, but I’ve no idea whether they have actually nested there for the winter. I started making additional nesting tubes, but they are not completed, and I assume it’s too late now. I’ll get them finished for the spring. I noticed this morning that the new fungi under the big conifer, which I think are Wood Blewits, have quite shiny metallic-looking caps, with a lilac tinge.
Thursday 6 December 2007
One of the two Globe Artichokes has sprouted vigorous new growth from the base. Seems odd. I need to lift the potatoes. They were earlies! The tall stems of the Jerusalem Artichokes have been blackened by the frosts - the tubers also need lifting. The large-leafed Comfrey in the front is now dying back. There is a self-set Teasel also in the front. It’s in fact two plants very close together. This should provide a spectacular display next year. The Salad Burnett is still fresh and green in the top garden. But the French Tarragon is looking yellowish and sad. Why do some annuals seem more resistant than others to the cold weather?
Wednesday 5 December 2007
I pruned a few lower branches of the big conifer. I was careful not to overdo this - to avoid disfiguring the tree. A robin flitted around watching my efforts. It’s interesting how some annuals seem to survive longer as winter advances. Salad Burnett is still green, bushy and even looks as though it is still growing. The Angelica also remains green. Basil is a shrivelled black stalk. I have been round all the late plantings and firmed down - not too much – the farmyard manure mulch. The hope is this mulch will help the plants survive the winter.
Tuesday 4 December 2007
I’ve now tidied up the self-set scrub under the big conifer. It was mainly elder plants which were a couple of feet high, with some bindweed and other small plants. I could have left it to grow wild, but I decided that this area is better left to the build up of pine leaves and the ivy which is starting to advance up the trunk. I think this provides an interesting and valuable mini-area in its own right, without the scrub. For example, it supports fungi particular to pine woods. I found new ones today. A smooth waxy-looking cap, with gills and stem tinged light purple. My best shot at identification is that this is Wood Blewit.
Monday 3 December 2007
Gardening in late autumn and winter is a pleasure, but first making the move from the warm room to a wet cold garden requires a bit of determination. Today in the failing late afternoon light I went out to sweep up leaves on the front. A useful addition to the compost heaps. I spread the last of the bag of farmyard manure around some of the new plants, which will hopefully help them survive winter frosts. I transferred branch prunings to the log piles in the woodland area. These are intended to be habitats for insects that hedgehogs and birds may feed on - though the continued absence of hedgehogs is a disappointment. A quick check on the wormery showed that the worms are still alive, and wriggling, though their activity does seem to have reduced now the weather is colder.
Friday 30 November 2007
Rue is a useful herb. It’s an evergreen perennial. I like its bright blue-green foliage. Some people dislike the scent of rue; I rather like it. It was used as a strewing herb in the past. It is very useful as a low hedge border plant. It is also easy to propagate, and self-sets readily. I noticed today that the chives are starting to turn yellow. Most of the garden looks bleak and empty. The roses have had an average year. The New Dawn put on one excellent display, but didn’t repeat the performance as it often does. Compassion is climbing well over the arch, while Ena Harkness has been a bit disappointing this year. By autumn it had lost nearly all the leaves, for no obvious reason. Will have to remember to give all the roses a good feed early in spring.
Our friendly and almost tame blackbird, who lives in the front garden, has been quietly stripping the orange berries from the firethorn bush. There’s only a few berries left. Their colour matches the bright bill of the blackbird. I think he was probably raised in the Juliana bush, so the front garden is his home. How else can you explain his quiet attachment to this location? Our robin is to be seen around now, in both front and back gardens. I need to try again to claim the bird table back for the birds. The separate squirrel feeder is now a ruin, destroyed by the squirrels. I’m not sure what to do to restore the balance.
Wednesday 28 November 2007
Winter is gradually setting in. I noticed this morning that a few more plants are dying back after the recent frosts. The Bergamot is failing, and the Marshmallow. The Angelica is starting to suffer. There has been more activity by the squirrels. Further attacks on the bird table. This has included hanging upside down from the table, clinging on with hind leg claws, taking the plastic top off the metal peanut bird feeder, then poking its head into the feeder to get at the peanuts. I suppose I should be grateful they haven’t - yet - tipped all the peanuts out onto the lawn below. I really ought to find time to cover the garden bench and table for the winter.
Tuesday 27 November 2007
A mushroom is growing under the Leylandi conifer. In November. We often get fungi growing in the rich compost of decayed pine needles. This mushroom has already been nibbled away, probably by the squirrels. These amusing and entertaining little animals were on the bird table yesterday. The first time I’ve seen two squirrels on the table at the same time. They look like young squirrels, born this year no doubt. The Rosemary cuttings I took about two months ago, rather late in the year, still look green. I’m hoping at least one or two survive the winter, and allow me to think about replacing the two very old Rosemary bushes that are still left from the half dozen or so we used to have.
Monday 26 November 2007
I noticed yesterday that at least one of our squirrels is smaller than the others. I think it’s a young one. It’s fair to assume that the squirrels have been busy raising a family this year. In fact, I’m sure I saw three squirrels in view at the same time, not all in our garden. This morning, before dawn, I saw the solar lights in the garden flashing on and off. Not sure of the science behind this phenomenon. Now the weather has turned wintry I’ll have to bring the lights into the garage till the spring. There’s six of them, used mainly as markers along the paths or in the flower borders. They do add extra interest in the garden, as well as being a reminder of the importance of renewable energy.
Friday 23 November 2007
A blue mild early morning. These days my early morning walk around the garden is in the first light. Lots of fallen leaves. I’ll have to find time to sweep them and get them on the compost heaps. Yesterday one of our squirrels returned to the bird table and attacked the red string bag of peanuts, meant to attract siskins. I’ve never identified a siskin in our garden, but they’re reputed to find red string bags irresistible. The bag is almost gnawed through. Today could see a major spillage of peanuts. I’m pleased how well the Sedum Spurium, which I rescued from the old rockery, has thrived.
Thursday 22 November 2007
A dark dank misty early morning walk round the garden. It’s an archetypal November morning, alongside those blue crisp bright mornings. A lot of rain, so everywhere is sodden. I inspected the damage the squirrels have inflicted on their feeder. Basically, they’ve destroyed it. The clear plastic front window is not just gnawed away, a whole chunk has been ripped off. I need a metal feeder. I’m keeping a close watch on the new plants I introduced, rather late, this year. They didn’t have much time to establish. The Angelica is still green and healthy-looking. Isn’t it an annual? The sole loss so far is the Nepata or Catmint, which I’m hoping will grow again in the spring.
Wednesday 21 November 2007
A stormy spell. Fallen leaves litter the lawns. The Dahlias look a sorry sight. Much squirrel activity, including their feeder. I inspected the feeder this morning. All the food - seeds and nuts - has gone, and I was surprised to find that not only was more of the wood frame gnawed away, but also a section of the transparent plastic front. I’d noticed they had given up actually lifting the hinged lid to get at the food, and were getting food directly from the corner, but I hadn’t realised how easy this was now a large hole had appeared. Effectively, they have destroyed the feeder. A pity. I wonder if I can find a replacement, more squirrel proof against damage?
Tuesday 20 November 2007
The Dahlias have died back. The recent hard frost overnight, getting down to -5 C, has blackened the leaves and stems, and left the blooms in tatters. Much of the garden is now looking wintry. All the Vine leaves have gone, though the Russian Vine still retains a proportion of its cover. A few Shasta Daisies are still, surprisingly, in flower. The squirrels are active, using their own feeder, and scampering over the lawns and along the fences. It will be interesting to see if they do disappear for a while and actually hibernate. And hopefully the winter will see plenty of visitors to the bird table.
Monday 19 November 2007
I saw a coal tit feeding at the bird table this morning, from the seed dispenser. A magpie was showing interest also. I’m not sure whether it was the food or the coal tit that was attracting it. After a second hard frost last night, the Dahlias are now definitely looking in a sorry state, but the leaves and stems have not blackened yet. Despite the cold, the lawns are still putting on a bit of growth, evident since the last cut.
Friday 16 November 2007
A useful self set - probably with the aid of birds - is the Ivy which is starting to climb up the large Leylandii trunk. I think the same Ivy is also trying to climb the larch-lap fence in the woodland area. It’s spreading over the ground under the Leylandii. This area is naturally thickly covered in dead and decaying pine needles, and is thus a quite specific habitat. I wonder if this variety of Ivy is particular to a pine woodland floor. On this morning’s walk around the garden I dead-headed the cowslips. I’m pleased they have thrived. I ought to divide them. And likewise the Ladysmock which comes from its home environment in a midlands watermeadow.
Thursday 15 November 2007
A milder day. There are curious unseasonal anomalies in the garden. I picked a ripe blackberry this morning. There are a few unripened blackberries, green and red, still on the brambles. There’s a rosebud on Ena Harkness, unopened, which is covered in greenfly - even after the frost. And Bindweed still in flower. I have restocked the bird table and the squirrel feeder. The birds are still largely absent. I saw a squirrel at the feeder, lifting the lid, today. They have done quite serious damage to the feeder, gnawing away the edges of the wood.
Wednesday 14 November 2007
A hard frost overnight. Not white-over on the lawns, trees and roofs, because the air is relatively dry I suppose. The Dahlias may have been dealt a fatal blow, but it hasn’t registered yet. Some plants have succumbed. The Jerusalem Artichoke foliage is limp and shrivelled. The Rhubarb leaves have already gone. A bright crisp November day. I notice that the compost bin is again down and no longer full, despite being piled high with kitchen waste and lawn mowings. I wonder if there are worms still at work here, continually reducing the volume, in addition to the normal decomposition action of the bin.
Tuesday 13 November 2007
I have never been a garden gnome enthusiast. Or one for garden ornaments in general. I’ve taken the view that the garden itself is the spectacle, and it doesn’t need gilding. But long ago I made a single exception to my gnome rule, and introduced a subdued little plain concrete gnome, which over the years has weathered nicely. I recently gave in to a ’welcome’ sign. It is a rusty metal thing, spiked into the ground. It is actually rusty metal, not painted plastic. My true passion is terracotta. So around the garden are terracotta plant pots of all sizes and shapes, some handmade.Terracotta pot stands, compass points, and a terracotta thermometer when I decide where to put it. It’s the pastel colour and earthy naturalness of terracotta that I like. This morning I saw a robin, and a blackbird on the front lawn. And the welcome reappearance of a blue tit at the bird table. A sign of the colder weather?
Monday 12 November 2007
The November weather has been pleasant – dry, bright and crisp but not frosty yet. This open weather has enabled more gardening than is usual during this month. Mainly tidying up and looking ahead to next year. I need to give some attention to the woodland area – there are piles of pruned branches that need sorting. The piles of rotting logs, branches and twigs that I leave in this area are meant to provide a haven for insects and small mammals. It would make an excellent hibernation place for hedgehogs. But I haven’t seen a hedgehog in the garden for many months.
Friday 9 November 2007
After Bonfire Night there are usually a few fallen remains of rockets and other fireworks in the garden. This year has been no exception. Autumn moves on apace. The vine leaves have nearly all gone. Dahlias still magnificently in bloom. The Shasta Daisies put on a wonderful display this year, after I transplanted them. Flowering week after week, for several months. There’s plenty of garden work for the winter months. If I can find time to clear some of the accumulated rubbish scattered around and in the outhouses, that would be a welcome improvement. It’s surprising how one becomes blind to eyesores.
Thursday 8 November 2007
Still quite mild and dry. So I decided to mow the lawns again today. The grass has grown noticeably since the last cut towards the end of October. But mowing in November is unusual. At least the lawns look in good shape. They will have a flying start in the Spring. In a few days I shall apply a second autumn liquid feed.
Wednesday 7 November 2007
A foggy early morning. I noticed lots of small spiders’ webs on the lawn, about five cm across, the threads covered in mist. I wonder if they are spiders. The Hosta ‘August Moon’ has succumbed to the cold weather and the leaves have faded. So have the rhubarb leaves, now lying flat on the ground and turned yellow. All my recent plantings seem to be surviving, apart from Nepata which has died back completely. Ivy is creeping up the truck of the large Leylandii. I’m a bit surprise to see ivy on a conifer. I suppose there’s no reason why not. More evidence of what I’m sure are Foxes’ footprints, but I haven’t seen a Fox for a long time.
Tuesday 6 November 2007
Interesting how even in November some plants are still flowering. The oddest flower today - and I do mean ‘flower’ in the singular - is a solitary stem with a little white flower on the Arabis which has been growing so nicely on the stone wall. The Dahlias are still in flower, but awaiting the grim reaper of the first severe frost. They have already survived a light overnight frost last month. Another contender for the oddest flower is the Cowslip. Now these really are spring plants, and welcome and lovely ones. But we have a number of Cowslips in bloom in November. In fact, they have been in bloom on and off throughout the year. That’s a bit worrying. Climate change? Not to mention the perennial Wallflowers still flowering, and the Sweet William.
Monday 5 November 2007
The garden continues its rapid change to autumn and winter. November has started with some pleasant sunny mild weather, and the lawns are still growing. Dahlias are still in bloom. The squirrels seem to have given up on their feeder. It may be because they have already eaten the nuts and things they prefer best, and are leaving the seeds. Holes are appearing around the garden and in the lawns where they have been busy burying conkers. Not much evidence of bird activity on the bird table.
Friday 2 November 2007
In the drive, stretching about six metres along the base of a shaded wall, is a remarkable little plant. It forms a soft green carpet, with no obvious flowers, grows and spreads rapidly, but dies down completely in winter, reappearing without fail in the spring. It is called Helxine, and the popular name is Mind Your Own Business. Sometimes called Baby’s Tears, it has tiny white flowers that are not noticeable. It can be invasive, but I find it a very useful plant for shady damp places where not much else will grow. Our plant has grown from a small piece of Helxine introduced here more than thirty years ago from an earlier garden, where it had been growing for at least another thirty years. I’d be lost without it, but not much fear of that.
Thursday 1 November 2007
Another bright crisp day. This morning I noticed that despite the recent overnight frost, aphids are still around. There are black flies on the Dahlias, being devoured by ants. And the Ena Harkness climber rose on the arch has a new bud and leaves hosting green fly. The Russian Vine has done a wonderful job this year clambering over the trellises I put on the unsightly corrugated iron fence at the bottom of the garden. It’s now rapidly shedding leaves, so till the spring we’ve just got the stems and branches to hide the fence. The marigolds are still in bloom. I noticed that the basil has suddenly succumbed to the colder weather, but the remaining shrivelled leaves retain that powerful aroma redolent of pastas and Italy.
Wednesday 31 October 2007
We seem to be enjoying a mild brighter spell as November approaches. The lawns are still growing - noticeably. I may need to do another late mowing. The wormery is working well. I’ve become accustomed to the slow pace of life of the worms. It’s something that can’t be rushed. One of the encouraging signs is the presence of quite large numbers of baby worms. But they are nearly all still working in the lower composting tray. There are a few in the middle tray, but no signs yet of a wholesale migration upwards. I wonder how active the worms will be as the winter sets in and temperatures fall.
Tuesday 30 October 2007
I like to keep a daily watch on the garden, by taking a gentle stroll around. It’s a bit less pleasant as winter approaches, but equally important to see what’s changing in each season. I notice things like new paw-prints, especially after the ground has been recently dug. Our foxes are still around, and their paw-prints are a regular feature, not to mention the holes they excavate. Early this morning, I was woken about four o’clock by noises in the street and front gardens I’m certain were the foxes. The days are rapidly shortening, and summertime is over.
Monday 29 October 2007
I’ve now done what will probably be the final lawn mowing of the year. The grass wasn’t completely dry, but there had been no rain for a while. I raised the cut height to the maximum 4.2 centimetres. I’m pleased with the result. The programme of gradual restoration of the lawn quality this year has been successful. The bare patches have been seeded; regular mowing has kept down and weakened the weeds; feeding has put back fertility into the lawns which much neglect had reduced. I doubt whether another cut will be needed before the Spring. It might be. The milder winters have allowed some grass growth in recent years. One regret I have is no daisies in the lawns. Many years ago I used weedkillers, and the daisies have, perhaps surprisingly, never returned.
Friday 26 October 2007
One of the tulip bulbs I planted recently has been dug up. Almost certainly by a fox. I just replanted it. The Nepata plant is now completely shrivelled up. Not sure whether it has just died back as the days get colder, or just died. There’s a label at its location, so I’ll look out for it in the Spring. The strawberries need replanting - I’ve gained a few more plants from the runners. The back garden is now truly taking on an autumn appearance.
Thursday 25 October 2007
Ferns are a useful plant in the garden. We have six. On the rockery is Dryopteris Cristata - The King Fern as the label says. Also on the rockery but partly hidden by the tree is a fern of unknown variety. It was found growing from the house wall, and successfully transplanted into the garden. Another Dryopteris, Filix Mas, is under the tall Berberis Juliana. Polystichum Herrenhausen nestles close to the Rue bush. The other two, one an off-shoot of the other, are also of unknown origin. I’ve had them for quite a few years, moving them to different locations when they seem to be struggling. I find this is a feature of growing ferns. The conditions need to be just right, then they take off. Chiefly, it’s dappled shade and plenty of moisture they like.
Wednesday 24 October 2007
I watched our tame blackbird feasting on the bright orange berries of the berberis bush in the front garden. He’s a male bird with the yellow beak. Although he’s always around near the garden, when he fancies a feast he perches almost hidden in the bush, motionless, and wary. Then suddenly he picks a berry and swallows it in one motion, with a flick of his head. When he’s on a roll, he repeats this every three or four seconds. There’s still a mass of berries on the bush. He seems to be the only bird that eats them. Within a month, all the berries will have vanished. A pity, because they are decorative in the bleaker months. But after all, the berries are there to be eaten. Yesterday we had the first frost of the autumn, overnight. It doesn't seem to have been severe, at least the dahlias are not blackened yet.
Tuesday 23 October 2007
The lawns need another cut before the winter, but the grass is still too wet. With a spell of dry weather and a bit of sun I might get the chance. As leaves fall, and growth dies back, the garden appearance is rapidly changing towards the barer stark winter look. It doesn’t seem to take long. I miss the Michaelmas Daisies this autumn. Moving the plants earlier in the year to the location adjacent to the Box tree was a mistake. We’ve had a few flowers from the mauve variety, but none from the more traditional lilac kind I like best.
Monday 22 October 2007
I’m still amazed the way compost reduces in bulk. It never seems possible to actually fill a compost bin. Despite adding material all through the spring and summer, only one bin is not quite full, one is about two thirds full and the other practically empty. I noticed today that the squirrels have launched a new attack on their feeder. One edge of the wooden box is seriously gnawed away, in an attempt to get at the seeds and nuts. I’ll try to cover it with tape. I put it down to at least one animal not discovering how to raise the lid. It’s getting colder at nights, but no frost yet.
Friday 19 October 2007
Still a dearth of birds in the garden. No robins for ages, apart from one brief appearance about two months ago. No blue tits, and the coal tits have vanished. A few Blackbirds, and the magpies. I’ve heard the occasional crow. That’s about it. I wonder if attention from neighbouring cats is the problem. No visitors to the birdtable. Perhaps things will change if the weather turns colder. I noticed a few new green blackberries today. A late surge. They won’t ripen of course.
Thursday 18 October 2007
The leaves are falling. The grape vine leaves are turning yellow and falling. The Russian Vine is shedding leaves gradually and becoming barer against the corrugated iron fence. The Firethorn is covered thickly with orange red berries, which our resident tame blackbird has started to enjoy. The dampness and mistiness of autumn has set in. I wonder how long before the first frost?
Wednesday 17 October 2007
Despite the early devastating attack by slugs and snails, which literally cropped the young plants back to ground level, the dahlias have done very well. There is still an excellent autumn display of an enormous yellow cactus dahlia, and two plants in shades of mauve. But soon we may have the first frost which will cut them down. All the new plants in the front garden are growing well. They were put in rather late in the year, but hopefully will get sufficiently well established to survive the winter and thrive next year. The single possible exception is Catmint, Nepata, which seems to be struggling.
Tuesday 16 October 2007
The blackberries in the garden have had a bad year. Not as bad as the grapes, but quite bad. On all the bramble bushes only a few blackberries have grown and ripened properly. Many of the berries have just shrivelled and died. I don’t know why. Maybe the wet summer.
Monday 15 October 2007
Of all the wild creatures in the garden, the spiders tend to get neglected. The misty autumn days are a good time to admire the handiwork - or leg work - of spiders, when they are outlined by dew. I’d been admiring a wonderful web construction in the front garden for days. The large web, with a fat spider sat at the centre, was amazingly suspended in the middle of the lawn by threads attaching it to bushes and the tree. I’d been careful to avoid walking into it - until yesterday. The whole construction came down. I managed to partially rescue the web by re-attaching a couple of the filaments to branches, but I fear the damage was done. This morning after a heavy dew I discovered some different kinds of web. Like fine lacework draped over low plants, especially the Sweet Williams. A ghostly effect.
Friday 12 October 2007
The lawns are looking healthy and in quite good condition. After regular feeding each week through the summer I have now given the first feed with the autumn formula. Ideally, it would be nice to cut the lawns again before the winter. But the grass has not been dry enough to use the cylinder mower. I did a few repairs to worn patches of grass, and the new areas have grown well.
Thursday 11 October 2007
This year the vines have been a complete disaster. Just a few miserable bunches of tiny green grapes. The problem may be partly due to the awful wet July and August. But the basic cause I think was the severe pruning in early spring. It had to be done, to bring the vines back under control, but it clearly scuppered the cropping this year. I have never fully understood the art of vine pruning.
Wednesday 10 October 2007
I managed to get the snowdrop bulbs replanted in the front garden. There are now six little clumps. Still to be lifted, regrouped and replanted are the rear garden snowdrops, apart from one replanting I did in the summer. The new daffodil and tulip bulbs have yet to be put in. It’s getting a bit late. Not to mention the hyacinths I lifted during the tidying of the front garden. The weather is still quite mild for early October.
Wednesday 3 October 2007
The squirrels don’t seem to have many natural predators apart from humans. But I’ve observed several amusing interactions between our squirrels and the cats that hunt in the garden. The squirrel swishes her tail in a gyratory way when she senses there’s something suspicious about. Once the cat spots the squirrel a sort of stalking starts. First the cat will jump up on the fence near the squirrel feeder. The squirrel fairly casually runs along the fence top to a safe distance, then stops and looks back at the cat in an unconcerned way. The cat slowly advances along the fence, and the squirrel just moves further away. I think the squirrel must be a much harder quarry to catch for cats than most birds.
Thursday 13 September 2007
The Globe Artichokes are in various stages of ripening. They are basically an edible thistle. We had not tried cooking them before today. I first chose one that had flowered and dried on the plant. After half an hour cooking in boiling water, I attempted to pull the outer leaves away and see what there was to eat. The answer was nothing. It consisted of a bunch of stringy strands and hard brown leaves, all of which were inedible. Next I selected a small greenish artichoke which had not yet opened into the purple thistle head. After cooking, this was much more promising. The leaves pulled away with a small edible section. When the strands had been removed there remained a small base which was eatable had had a distinctive taste. So it seems that the best stage to harvest globe artichokes may be somewhere in between these two stages, possibly when the purple flower is still blooming and before it has dried up.
Wednesday 12 September 2007
This dry pleasant weather continues, almost an Indian Summer. Our Robin has suddenly reappeared, after months of absence. Of course, it may not be our Robin. And a Blue Tit was spotted on the bird table a few days ago. The swifts seem to have left, after circling and swooping high overhead during the summer. A bright display by the Dahlias is in full swing, and will hopefully continue until the first frosts. Mauve, yellow and purple are the colours. The grape crop still shows no sign of ripening, just a few bunches of small green fruits.
Tuesday 11 September 2007
The time of the year for thinking about planting bulbs is here. We had small displays of daffodils and tulips this year, but they were less spectacular than last year, so I have bought new bulbs. The new daffodils are all King Alfred. The tulips are a mixture of different colours. I hope to plant them within a week or so. I need to get the snowdrops replanted as soon as possible, although two groups have been done, and a number of groups in the back garden have not been sorted yet. The bluebells gave a fine display this year. If I can identify the bulbs in the ground, I will lift and replant them. There is also just a single muscari that flowered this year, the remnant of the many we used to have. It may be possible to divide this if it has produced bulblets. Then there are a number of hyacinths that have been lifted and need replanting. Plenty of work ahead.
Monday 10 September 2007
The renewed front garden rockery is now looking fine. It will take a few weeks to begin to settle down. I planted two ferns. One is Dryopteris Cristata The King, the other a self set of unkown type which I found high up the house wall at the back. Whether this rockery site will prove to be suitable for these ferns remains to be seen. It is partially shaded, but may be too dry. I planted a striking yellow-green foliage plant with filament leaves called Santolina ‘Lemon Fizz’. A pretty low-growing plant Scuttelaria ‘Texas Rose’ with little red flowers is on the ground level section of the rockery. Sedum Kamshcaticum Variegatum is also on this level. It has yellow flowers. I also replanted three pieces of Sedum Spurium which I rescued from the old rockery. There remains plenty of space for additional alpine plants, but I will wait to see how well these thrive before making further plantings. Much depends on getting the right location and soil type. I’ll monitor progress carefully.
Friday 7 September 2007
Today I rebuilt the small rock garden on the front. It had been in existence for many years but had gradually become neglected and overgrown. Eventually it became choked by the ‘mind your own business’ plant, which though delightful and useful is invasive, especially in shady and damp areas. The rocks were sandstone which I had obtained from neighbours when they removed the garden front sandstone walls. I’d already cleared the site, so my task today was to resite the sandstone and replant. The basic design I adopted was a front border area, backed by three layers of ‘exposed’ rock outcrops. I will describe the replanting next time. A decidedly autumnal day. The vines seem to have contracted a leaf browning disease. The grape crop this year will be sparse and probably unripe, unless we have a long Indian Summer this autumn.
Thursday 6 September 2007
A definite autumnal chill in the air this morning. The conifers in a neighbouring garden have been pruned. There is now much more light reaching the top garden. This is from a northerly direction, so there is no change in the direct sunlight, but I expect to see some effects on the growth of plants. This is unlikely to affect the vines. They have put on remarkable growth this year, probably due either to pruning in the spring or feeding, but the fruit looks small and sparse. I doubt whether much will ripen before the frosts arrive, and it will be quite different to the magnificent grape harvest last year. I’ve rescued the pineapple mint and eau de cologne mint from the front garden. Inevitably, they have become tangled together, and it is hard to tell which is which. I shall have to replant them in pots in the ground to curtail their spread.
Wednesday 5 September 2007
The final days of August and the start of September have been dry. This more open weather has given a welcome chance to get more gardening work underway. I’ve turned my attention today to the front garden. The beds needed tidying and I’ve moved herb plants from the back garden to the front, including Hyssop, Cotton Lavender, Purple Sage, Rue and Chives. I have also improved the lawn edging and given some thought to restructuring the small rock garden. One consequence of the drier weather has been a few brown patches appearing in the lawns. They should disappear with the next rainfall. Today I watched a squirrel on the birdtable. She only made a feeble attempt to get at the peanuts, then headed for the fence and the new squirrel feeder. She sat of the platform, scratched at the glass front, then gave up without a trying to lift the lid. I’m certain there are more than one or even two squirrels, not all of them able yet to access the food.
Tuesday 4 September 2007
The few strawberry plants I introduced this year have been successful. The plants are a ‘Florence’ variety. They have grown vigorously, produced some nice fruit, and are sending out runners which should increase the stock for next year. Today I have removed the last remaining Rosemary bush from the front garden. It must have been fifteen years old, if not more, and the stem was knarled and bare. This is a step towards improving the front garden with a greater emphasis on herbs and a cottage garden style. Already the lawn is looking much better. I have taken seven cuttings from the Rosemary, and they are now planted in the top garden. I’m hoping a couple of these might survive, and I will use them eventually to replace the old bushes.
Monday 3 September 2007
The old apple tree continues to be surprisingly fruitful. The tree is around seventy years old and is a James Grieve I believe. It has become overshadowed by the adjacent Bay tree, but is carrying a decent crop this year, which is still ripening. In contrast, the ten year old dwarf apple tree, with three varieties on the same root stock, produces just a few tiny apples. The dahlias are now in flower - mauve, deep purple and yellow. The yellow cactus dahlia has the largest dahlia flower I have ever seen, at eight and a half inches diameter. A Michaelmas Daisy is also in flower. This is unusually early. It’s the newer, larger mauve variety, not my favourite pale lilac / blue, which is not yet in flower. I transplanted the Michaelmas Daisies early in the year. Unfortunately, in their new location they have been overgrown by self-set Borage, which I’m reluctant to remove before they have set seed. I may have to find a way of rescuing the Michaelmas Daisies.
Friday 31 August 2007
I mowed the back garden lawns today, and for the first time I included the re-seeded area in the mow. This small triangular area in one corner of the lawn was only set about two months ago. I’ve given it a couple of cuts using shears, to avoid potential damage to the young grass shoots from the cylinder mower. It may temporarily go a shade of brown, but overall this area is now difficult to distinguish from the established lawn area. The join is practically invisible. This success is at least partly due to the wet summer and the absence of long dry spells requiring watering. I’ve bought another new plant today from the garden centre. Cotton Lavender, or Santolina Chamaecyparissus to give it the correct Latin name. It may be a useful low hedging plant for the herb garden which I’m planning to develop in the front garden. This has been a sort of herb garden for some years, but I hope to make it much more attractive and varied.
Thursday 30 August 2007
Evidence today that there is more than one squirrel visiting the garden. A squirrel came from the horse chestnut tree several gardens away, along the fences and down our north border fence. She didn’t seem to notice the squirrel feeder, and paid no attention to the bird table food. After a brief visit to a neighbouring roof, she returned by the same route, again showing a complete lack of interest in the feeder. An hour or so later, a squirrel appeared again. But this squirrel went straight to the feeder, pushed the lid up and spent about ten minutes on the platform tucking into the nuts. This looks like two creatures. These days the garden seems to get more visits from the local cats. Today I watched a black and white cat playing cat & mouse with a small animal in the flower border and then the lawn. Then the animal jumped away, revealing itself as a frog. The cat chased, and caught the frog in her mouth. She dropped the frog. Was it dead? No, it jumped away back into the border, followed by the cat. I’d had enough. I went out into the garden and scared the cat off.
Wednesday 29 August 2007
Today I found a tiny Holly plant growing behind an old Rosemary bush that I was tidying. Interesting how it got there. Probably from a Holly berry dropped by a bird. This is the common variety, unlike the variegated Hollies I have elsewhere in the garden, so the seed had been brought in from a neighbouring garden. I dug up the little newcomer, and transplanted it to the top of the garden, to join another Holly plant found in similar circumstances recently. Self-set plants are a valuable resource in the garden. It’s so easy to get rid of everything when weeding, and lose these free additions to the garden stock. My Teasels came this way. And I’m glad that Lemon Balm, Borage and Feverfew are hard to eradicate.
Tuesday 28 August 2007
The rainy weather this ‘summer’ has produced an explosion in the garden slug population. If this had simply meant an unexpected feast for the slug predators, perhaps all would have been well. But in my garden the hedgehogs have vanished. I don’t know why. Not many years ago the hedgehogs were regular welcome visitors here. This absence of a major predator of the slugs is a problem. I have reluctantly used slug pellets to prevent the total loss of some plants including the hosta, dahlias and several other valued plants.
Monday 27 August 2007
I saw the squirrel climbing the pole to the peanuts on the bird table, so I tapped on my study window. She was puzzled where the taps were coming from, but decided it was bad news and made a quick retreat up the fence and along the top. When she reached the squirrel feeder she climbed down on to the ledge, and explored how to get to the food on view. I had sellotaped the front glass window to prevent it being lifted. Within a couple of minutes she had lifted the wooden lid of the feeder, grabbed a nut and sat on the ledge nibbling away. For about ten minutes she repeated this process. Eventually she was almost climbing into the feeder to choose an item from the nut mixture of squirrel food. Whether she will now leave the bird table to the birds remains to be seen.
Friday 24 August 2007
I have several succulent and rock plants in the garden. Some have been successful, others seem to fade and fail. Sedum Spectabile, apparently known as the Ice Plant, thrives very well, and I now have two offshoots from the main plant which is itself now just coming into bloom - a dull mauve colour. I have recently rescued a low growing matt-forming plant from the old rock garden which has green / red leaves. I believe it is Sedum Spurium. It is recovering well in several plant pots, and I will replant this in the new rock garden I’m planning. Another succulents that has thrived is Sedum Matrona, Arabis Ferdinandi-Coburgi Variegata is an excellent wall plant, called Rock Cress, with white flowers, which thrives remarkably well on the from rock wall. Euphorbia Myrsinites is also on the wall and growing vigorously.
Thursday 23 August 2007
The continuing rainy weather makes gardening difficult, and limited to not much more than walks round the garden. It’s not been possible to cut the lawns, and they are beginning to need cutting. A dahlia is in bloom, a cactus type with cerise flowers, and another is almost open. The Russian Vine is also in flower. This plant has put on spectacular growth, as might be expected, and has fulfilled its purpose of screening the corrugated iron fence at the top of the garden. Overall, this has not been a typical gardening August.
Wednesday 22 August 2007
For the first time this year I noticed an autumnal feel to the garden this morning. It’s still mid-August, but somehow there seems a misty autumn chill in the air. The grape vines have put on remarkable growth this year, probably the outcome of the pruning and feeding I did in the spring. There are more grapes than I first thought, not as prolific as last year, and they seem to be late, still just very small green bunches. They will need to swell and ripen quickly to be eatable, which means we need a spell of warm weather soon. The Michaelmas Daisies have been overshadowed by self-set Borage. The Borage is very welcome, but I hope the Michaelmas Daisies survive this year. They are always a familiar part of the autumn garden. The ‘August Moon’ Hosta has been revived by transplanting it from the front garden and protecting from the ravages of snails and slugs.
Tuesday 21 August 2007
The squirrel has discovered the new feeder! It has managed to get at the peanuts and other goodies, but not in the way intended. I saw the squirrel sitting on the fence near the feeder, happily nibbling a peanut. She then climbed down and sat on the feeder platform, looking through the glass front at the mass of food on display. I couldn’t at first see how the squirrel was getting at the food. Then it became clear. It wasn’t through the planned route of lifting the top lid and delving down. She had managed somehow to slide up the glass front, and extract the peanuts through the narrow gap at the base of the glass. When the squirrel had gone, within minutes three or four blue tits and greenfinches descended on the feeder, supposedly ‘bird-proof’, helping themselves to the nuts and seeds. I shall examine the feeder to make sure the glass front is securely down - if necessary held in place by sellotape.
Monday 20 August 2007
The dahlias had a very poor start this year, due to savage attacks by the slugs and snails. One young plant was reduced to just a short bare stem. I had to use, reluctantly, slug pellets to give the plants a second chance. It has worked, surprisingly, and the dahlias are now healthy looking plants just producing the first blooms. Whether they will be as prolific as they usually are remains to be seen. The blackberries have started to ripen, and I’ve already enjoyed picking and eating delicious fruits. The Shasta daisies are still in full bloom - a magnificent display this year after I divided and moved the plants.
Friday 17 August 2007
Our worm farm is now just over four weeks old. I’m pleased to say that there are still live worms in the compost, so I am presumably doing something right. I’ve kept up a fairly regular feeding regime, but not putting excessive quantities of food in the top tray which might be uneaten and go rotten. The bits of kitchen waste including tea bags (split open), cardboard from kitchen rolls, lettuce leaves and broccoli stems have been mixed occasionally with a proprietary ‘worm treat’ and an alkaline conditioner to prevent the compost becoming too acidic, which the worms apparently dislike. I feared that the compost was becoming too wet at one stage, so I added a bit more dry cardboard and left the unit in the sun. It’s kept in the garage usually, out of the rain. So far there is no liquid in the base for use as a fertiliser, and the worms are still eating their way through the first tray of compost. Only when this first tray is devoured, and the works move up into the next tray, can the first delivery of compost be used. There have been a few fatalities. I once found about ten dead worms in the base. And initially there were a few worms in the lid, but they’ve stopped going there lately. I think that the system is still settling down, and is not yet fully operational. The pace of life of the worms is quite leisurely. Patience is required, I think.
Thursday 16 August 2007
No sign yet that the squirrels have discovered the new squirrel feeder, let alone found out how to open it. In fact, there have been no sightings of squirrels for a week or so now. It may be they have plenty of food as the conkers begin to mature on the horse chestnut trees where they live. I’ve been surprised how often bees now use the bee house that is hanging by the grape vines. I imagine they are mason bees, but I’m not sure about the identification yet. They seem to pop into the tubes, stay for a minute or so, then emerge and fly away. The top garden is reasonably under control, certainly under better control than it has been in August for some years past. Both compost bins are almost full; they get filled to overflowing, then rapidly reduce down. This process happens repeatedly, it’s amazing how the compost compresses. However, I think I will soon have to assemble the third bin and put it in place.
Wednesday 15 August 2007
The blackberries are ripening, and I’ve already sampled the first fruits. There are of course plenty of blackberries for picking in the countryside, but it’s good to have a few available in the garden. Also I’m trying to produce a bramble ‘thicket’, along the top fence, adjacent to the Russian Vine, which may provide another secure habit for nesting birds. Talking of birds, the garden seems to have hit a silent, quiet period. Very little bird song, no activity at the bird table, and simply very few birds of any species observed. This year has been a disappointment for birds' nests. Apart from a couple of aborted attempts by robins in the spring, there have been no nests found in the garden this year, which is very unusual. I’m not sure why. Squirrel maraudering? Magpies? We harvested a few more Charlotte potatoes today, and pulled what is probably the last of the rhubarb this year. It’s been an excellent crop, from the single plant. The hollyhock is in bloom, a deep crimson, but the leaves are suffering quite badly from a form of rust, with tiny brown specks all over the undersides of the leaves, which are disintegrating.
Tuesday 14 August 2007
I have fixed the new squirrel feeder on the south facing fence, close to the box tree. The top of this long fence is part of the squirrel’s route from the tall horse chestnut trees where it lives to my bird table. I felt it was unwise to place it on the pole supporting the bird table, thereby attracting the squirrel to the table. I shall now wait and see. How long will it take for the squirrel to discover the new feeder? Then how long to find out how to lift the lid to access the peanuts and other squirrel food visible through the glass pane? This location is further from the house, but still close enough to observe the squirrel’s antics easily.
Monday 13 August 2007
This morning I found the unmistakeable evidence of fox activity during the night: bird feathers, probably pigeon’s, on the lawn. I haven’t actually seen any foxes in the garden for some time, although paw imprints in the soil and dung have indicated their presence regularly. Barking in the night is occasionally heard, and unlikely to be dogs. At least I haven’t seen the problem that used to be prevalent - fairly large excavations in the garden soil which became something of a nuisance. I suppose that may have been related to exploring for possible den sites. The site of a suspected den, just beyond the top fence, has not been active recently.
Friday 10 August 2007
If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. Or rather, if you can’t stop them raiding the bird feeder, give them their own. So I’ve bought a squirrel feeder. I have yet to decide where to place it; it could be on the pole supporting the bird table, which the squirrel climbs to reach the bird food, or some distance away on the fence. The latter solution may, hopefully, move the squirrel’s attention from the bird table. The design requires the squirrel to work out how to lift the wooden lid in order to get at the peanuts and other food, which are visible through the front glass panel. I doubt whether this will prove an obstacle for this persistent, agile and inquisitive creature. I wonder how long it will take?
Thursday 9 August 2007
The New Dawn climbing rose along the south facing fence is now reduced to about ten remaining blooms, after a magnificent display this year. I’ve started the deadheading, in the hope of a ‘second flush’ perhaps in September. Both Compassion and Ena Harkness are now giving a good second display. Compassion has surprised me with phenomenal new growth; strong healthy new branches several feet long. This augurs well for next year. I shall need to train the new stems carefully over the archway. It’s always quite easy to snap new shoots by excessive bending. The grape vines continue to put on vigorous, even luxuriant, growth, but not much evidence of grapes setting. I wonder if I overdid feeding in the spring, maybe with too much nitrogen. Though a poor crop of grapes this year may be a natural outcome of last year’s fantastic grape harvest.
Wednesday 8 August 2007
The globe artichokes are looking impressive. They form quite majestic plants. I’m not sure when they are ready to harvest; I shall check this out. This year the small pear tree has produced just five pears. They are sweet with a delicious flavour. I harvested a few Charlotte salad potatoes yesterday. The strawberry plants I introduced this year were quite successful, and they are producing runners, so I hope to increase the stock for next season. There are still a few redcurrants on the bushes, the crop was excellent. One job I need to do soon is to take a few Rosemary cuttings. The old bushes will need replacing before long. I find that with luck if I take six cutting, a couple will succeed.
Tuesday 7 August 2007
I’m leaving a tiny patch at the top of the back lawn as a sort of microcosm meadow. The most striking flower growing there now is a tall spindly plant with a yellow flower. It looks a bit like a buttercup from a distance. Searching through my wild flowers book, I believe it is the Common Hawkweed. Obviously not so ‘common’ that I knew its name instantly. I suppose I shall have to ‘mow’ this meadow soon, perhaps with a sickle. I’ve also identified a small dainty plant with pretty pink flowers, growing along several of the garden paths, as Herb Robert. The dividing line between wild flowers and the ‘domesticated’ variety is not really clear-cut in a wildlife garden. Teasel is a plant I welcome which usually pops up anywhere and everywhere, but is entirely self set. Sometimes this does create a problem when weeding. Is a particular plant a weed, or isn’t it?
Monday 6 August 2007
The garden is assuming that high-summer look. A bit less green, a bit less luxuriant, as autumn starts to loom on the horizon. I’m pleased to have the hollyhock in bloom, a deep crimson. I usually find that these plants succumb to disease or slugs in my garden. The dahlias have struggled through, after the early mauling by the slugs, though they are not yet in flower. I noticed today that the honeysuckle on the pyramid is showing signs of distress, at least one branch turning brown. I can’t understand the awful problem I’ve had with honeysuckle and clematis this year.
Friday 3 August 2007
I haven’t really paid any close attention to observing the butterflies and moths that visit the garden. I made a start with the butterflies today. I tend to regard them as simply one of two sorts - ‘Cabbage White’ if they are white, and ‘Red Admiral’ if they are coloured a crimson / brown. But a largish butterfly settled on the fence next to the buddleia bush. It was a reddish / brown colour, and had large imitation ‘eyes’ on its wings. The reference book seemed to prove it was a Peacock butterfly. There are many white butterflies around the garden, but they rarely seem to settle. Perhaps I should grow cabbages.
Thursday 2 August 2007
The weather has changed at last, after many weeks of cloud and rain. Sitting in the warm early morning sun today, watching the many flying creatures in the still fresh morning air, is a pleasure denied for so long. The clematis Rouge Cardinal is in flower, a deep crimson. Ena Harkness and Compassion roses around the arch are in their second flush. Compassion especially is very vigorous, throwing out numerous new long strong branches. The blackberries are just starting to ripen – I tried the first ones yesterday. Redcurrants are still plentiful, and the pears are coming on nicely. The lawns are looking in good shape, helped by all that rain.
Wednesday 1 August 2007
They have finally done it. The squirrels have broken the peanut feeder hanging from the bird table. I say ‘they’- there may be more than one - though I suspect it’s a single culprit. The act of vandalism was not actually witnessed, but the evidence was clear. The plastic top cover was broken. Previous attempts had focussed on the bottom cover, but I had made this area a bit more difficult to attack by tying a plastic net around the base of the feeder. A few peanuts were scattered on the lawn below the bird table, but the main contents of the feeder were still in place. Soon after, I noticed that one of the fat snax had disappeared. The second time this has happened, and not much doubt again about the identity of the culprit.
Tuesday 31 July 2007
There is now a lull in bird activity. Practically no visitors to the bird table. And not many birds around the garden. The blue tits, great tits and even the recently active coal tits seem to be lying low. No greenfinches. Magpies and pigeons still around, but much less obvious. The blackbirds are still singing from the tree tops and chimneys - for how much longer? House sparrows are non-existent, and song thrushes too. The most frequent visitors - or raiders - at the bird table are the squirrels. I’ve started putting a bowl of peanuts on the ground below the table in an effort, probably futile, to prevent complete destruction of the plastic peanut dispenser hanging from the table.
Monday 30 July 2007
The tiny ‘woodland’ area of the garden has gradually become neglected, with piles of prunings, the old broken garden bench, and other odds and ends. I’ve now dismantled the old bench and moved it to the drive ready for disposal. The prunings have been sorted into branches to add to the wood piles, which I keep as habitats for insects and wildlife, and the remaining bits and pieces which have gone into the brown recycling bin that the council collects every fortnight. This shaded woodland area separates the ‘tidy’ lawn and flower border section of the garden from the top garden with the fruit trees and bushes, vegetables and the herb and cottage garden.
Friday 27 July 2007
I have three compost bins which take the compostable garden material and also our kitchen waste. I’ve now decided to start an additional different approach, using a ‘wormery’. Essentially this is a worm farm, a term I prefer, where the animals (worms in this case) are working to produce compost for the garden. The idea is that the worm farm will use mainly kitchen waste, and will produce a rather different, richer and finer compost and a liquid feed for the garden. The worm farm has started with 1,000 workers ie worms, and so far all seems to be going well.
Thursday 26 July 2007
The buddleia is in bloom, and the self-set borage with its pretty blue flowers. Both attract butterflies and bees. I’ve been a bit heavy-handed with the teasel this year. It’s another self-set plant, which produces seed heads that some finches love. I’ve been pulling up and composting the teasels wherever I’ve seen them in the garden. My intention was never to eradicate them of course, but my over-enthusiasm seems to have achieved that result. Now I’m anxiously looking round for a teasel that has escaped the slaughter, to perpetuate this welcome plant for next year. I’ve spotted a robin again. I think it may be a young bird – it doesn’t seem to have discovered the bird table yet.
Wednesday 25 July 2007
This awful wet ‘summer’ continues. Overall it has hindered work in the garden, and has meant very few pleasant dry sunny days pottering in the garden. However, at least the garden looks green and lush. And it has been actually helpful for the lawns, providing ideal conditions for sowing grass seeds. The bare brown triangular patch of lawn, caused by the overhanging Rosemary bush which I pruned back severely, is now green again despite being reseeded only two weeks or so ago.
Tuesday 24 July 2007
I visited an excellent Herb Garden yesterday, which has given me some new ideas for my own garden, and encouraged me to buy a few more herbs plants. Now I need to find suitable garden space for Salad Burnet, Pot Marigold and Southernwood, all of which I’ve grown in the past, and lost the plants for one reason or another. I particularly like Southernwood; lovely fine foliage, and a delightful scent. And Marigolds are so typical of an old English garden. Then I bought three new herbs – new for my garden, that is. Marsh Mallow, Bergamot and Soapwort.
Monday 23 July 2007
The squirrels are fairly frequent visitors to the bird table. In fact, I’ve deliberately placed loose peanuts on the table itself, in addition to those contained in the plastic feeders and red polythene string bags. Otherwise,the feeders are going to get destroyed - the chewing away has already started. I took the chance yesterday to observe closely, through binoculars, our squirrel visitor feeding on the table. Climbing the six feet high metal post is no problem at all. Just straight up. Then devouring peanuts as fast as possible, while keeping a wary lookout. The peanuts are held tightly between the front paws, the thin outer husk discarded, and the kernel nibbled away. I had never seen before how long and vicious- looking are the squirrel’s claws. This performance continued for a good five minutes, till noise from a neighbouring garden caused an immediate lightning retreat off the table, down the pole, across the lawn, up the fence and along the fence top edge towards the tall trees. I might get a special bird-proof squirrel feeder, with a flap lid the squirrel has to open to reach the peanuts.
Friday 20 July 2007
I was pleasantly surprised, though I shouldn’t have been. Sitting quietly on the garden seat enjoying the peaceful early evening, I saw a bee settling on the new bee log. Looking more closely, I saw it actually enter one of the hollow bamboo tubes. That’s what was supposed to happen, but I didn’t expect such a quick result. Perhaps there are more solitary bees in the garden that I realised? I wonder if it was a mason bee? My patience and observation were further rewarded when a largish fast-flying butterfly settled high on the conifer, basking in the last of the warm evening sun. I looked it up in my butterfly book; it was either a small tortoiseshell, a red admiral or a painted lady, probably the first.
Thursday 19 July 2007
There is very little activity these days on the bird table. I restocked it with peanuts, seeds and fat balls recently, but all this food has gone largely unnoticed except by the coal tits. The robins are still absent, and no blue tits or great tits have been seen for many weeks. I suppose there is plenty of wild food around, and the feeding of nestlings may have passed its peak. A solitary pigeon sat on the bird table roof yesterday, then flew off without any attempt to reach the food. Even the squirrels haven’t bothered.
Wednesday 18 July 2007
It’s probably a bit late in the year to set up a bee log in the garden, but better late than never. The bee house is designed for mason bees. These solitary pollinating bees come in at least two varieties – red and blue. I believe the red kind have by now finished all their nesting for the year, but the blue creatures are still interested. I’ve hung the log from a wooden stake in front of the grape vines, about four feet from the ground, facing south to catch the sun and sloping down slightly to avoid filling with rain. It has space for around thirty bees. I’ve never noticed a pollination problem in the garden, but the more the merrier. I suppose that in the absence of any mason bees other insects may take up residence.
Tuesday 17 July 2007
Today we discovered that gooseberries and redcurrants together, served with cream, make a delightful pudding. Another way of using the enormous crop of these two soft fruits this year. The grass seedlings on the bare patch of lawn have started to germinate, just over a week after sowing, with several areas about half an inch high. The top garden is looking overgrown, but green and lush. The blackberry brambles have set a good quantity of berries, which should ripen next month. These brambles will provide an excellent nesting site next year.
Monday 16 July 2007
The buddleia is now in bloom. That heavy rich scent is redolent of hot summer afternoons, and of course it’s a honeypot for butterflies. The two climbing roses on the arch, crimson Ena Harkness and salmon pink Compassion, are in bud for what looks like being quite a prolific second flush of roses. And the lovely pink of New Dawn continues. This year we have a brilliant display by the Shasta daisies – at least that’s what I call them. I believe they are a variety of aster. Tall stems, with large white flowers and a yellow centre. Like huge daisies.
Friday 13 July 2007
Early this year we had an excellent show of snowdrops. I always let the plants die down naturally after blooming, which I’m sure helps them to multiply and build up reserves for the following year. Despite the best intentions, as garden work gets busy, the exact locations of the snowdrops become forgotten, with a risk of overplanting and wholesale disturbance. I’ve made a start on identifying the locations of the snowdrop clumps, lifting, dividing and replanting the bulbs and labelling the sites clearly. Hopefully this will result in good displays next winter.
Thursday 12 July 2007
The bird table needed replenishing with peanuts, fat balls and seeds. There hasn’t been much bird activity for a month or two now. I suppose there is plenty of food around the gardens. But for several days coal tits have been feeding, identified easily by that white patch at the back of the neck. The robins have been conspicuous by their absence for months, but a solitary robin put in a brief appearance yesterday. I have been looking out for bats in the dusk. None seen so far, and the swifts that have been circling high above for weeks have disappeared.
Wednesday 11 July 2007
I’ve decided to invest in a wormery. After considering making my own, I’m going for a commercially available design. Expensive, but allowing the production of liquid fertiliser and a fine compost material. It may prove a costly failure, I shall see. Anyway, my three compost bins are successful. This year I’ve had a good supply of compost for mulching and planting.
Tuesday 10 July 2007
Still showery, but perhaps the worst of this ‘rainy season‘ is over. It has certainly been a superb season for soft fruit. gooseberries galore, a superb crop of redcurrants, blackcurrants fine, and the blackberries look set for a great harvest by the autumn. I’m a bit unsure about the grapes this year. They just seem too far behind.
Monday 9 July 2007
I’ve pruned all the deadwood from the old Rosemary bush in the back garden. It must be around twenty years old, and was overhanging the lawn extensively. This has left a triangular patch of bare earth in the corner of the lawn, which I’ve re-seeded. Hopefully the new grass will soon grow. The pruned Rosemary has also freed up a piece of garden border. I transplanted rue, sage, a succulent whose name I don’t know, hyssop and six chives plants to fill the gap. This bit of the garden looks much tidier.
Friday 6 July 2007
I bought a new lawnmower this week, to replace the ancient one that is literally falling apart. It’s been too wet to give it an inaugural run, but tomorrow may be dry. I’ve decided to try a new strategy with the lawns. I shall let the grass grow a bit longer overall, and a few border areas will be left unmown, to encourage insects and wildflowers.
Thursday 5 July 2007
The rain has continued unrelenting into July. It has been quite difficult to work consistently in the garden at this critical time of the growing season. The New Dawn roses have put on a fabulous show this year. I’m surprised, after the poor results last year, and the recent weather. The redcurrants are now ripe and ready for picking, as are the gooseberries. It’s the best ever gooseberry crop I’ve had. They are green and sweet, and very nice on salads. The couple of blackcurrant bushes are looking fine, and the rhubarb is ready for the third pulling.
Monday 25 June 2007
The awful June weather continues, with more rain, and cool. Despite this disappointing setting, soft fruit in the garden is ripening. Redcurrants and blackcurrants are ripe and eatable. The gooseberries are green, large, and succulent. I’ve eaten one and it’s tart, but fine. I’m sure this variety ripens further to become red and sweet. I shall wait and see.
Saturday 23 June 2007
As I resume these notes, the lavender bushes in the back garden have just today, quite suddenly, come into bloom. Adding an eye-catching colour to the south border, where the New Dawn roses are giving a good display, not yet reached its peak.
Monday 4 June 2007
The New Dawn climbing rose is just starting to reach the bud-opening stage. Last year’s display was disappointing, after several magnificent years. I planted two parsley plants from the nursery a few weeks ago, in different parts of the garden. One is doing very well; the other is suffering from the ravages of slugs, and in danger of going the same way as the dahlia shoots.
Friday 1 June 2007
The garden still has a windswept and battered look. Hopefully June will see calmer days and a chance to tidy up. The chives which edge several paths are now in full bloom. They make excellent edging plants. Several foxgloves are almost in bloom. The first of the two honeysuckles I planted this year, the one on the pyramid, is growing vigorously and looks very healthy. But the second seems to have expired, for some unknown reason, apart from a couple of tiny axillary shoots. I shall watch them intensely for signs of growth.
Thursday 31 May 2007
The dahlias I planted are a disappointment so far. Only two have come through, and they have both been eaten by the slugs. The weather is till wet and cold and inhibits much gardening. The lawns need mowing. I’m not sure what I want to do. A closely cut lawn, manicured, would look nice and be a pleasant contrast to the wildlife garden. But I would really prefer to have more of a wildlife meadow effect. The jury is out.
Wednesday 30 May 2007
The recent very wet and windy weather has caused some plants to keel over, including foxgloves, aquilegia, tarragon and the potato and artichokes - both globe and Jerusalem. When the weather becomes more seasonal I shall tidy them up, and some staking may be needed. Because of the secluded site with nearby tall trees there is a tendency for plants to grow a bit lanky, which makes them vulnerable to windy days.
Tuesday 29 May 2007
Both the honeysuckle and the clematis that I planted about ten days ago at the top fence near the garden seat are showing signs of serious distress. They are wilting and the foliage looks terminally ill. I can’t understand what has caused this problem. Was it the aerosol wax polish I used to protect the bench wood? Maybe it drifted onto these plants. The Russian vine close by has not been affected. Or any other plants. Did I use too much fertiliser in preparing the planting holes? Will they both recover? We have had two days of almost non-stop rain which has been beneficial to the garden, but has prevented work in the garden that needs attention.
Friday 25 May 2007
The Charlotte potatoes are growing well, though a bit lanky due to shade from the trees. Likewise the Jerusalem artichokes. These don’t require much encouragement to grow, but they are a very useful crop. I discovered that a hosta in the front garden I thought had not survived the winter is in fact growing well, hidden by weeds. I shall need to take action against the marauding snails and slugs. If only there were a few song thrushes still around.
Wednesday 23 May 2007
The recent spell of persistent showery weather seems to be ending. It was welcome, but has delayed some gardening jobs. I want now to prepare a site for marrows, which I shall grow from seed. It’s many years since I last grew them, but they were invariably successful, and a valuable vegetable both as large marrows to stuff, and also eaten small as courgettes. The first roses in bloom this year are the climbing Ena Harkness. Beautiful large scarlet flowers, with a lovely scent.
Tuesday 22 May 2007
The honeysuckle Lonicera Periclymenum which I planted last week has quite suddenly started to looked sickly. It had seemed to make a good start, but I noticed today that the shoots were looking limp. Maybe it needs additional watering. It would be a shame to lose this plant; it is needed to climb the end section of trellis and screen the corrugated iron eyesore. The gooseberries are swelling fast. This looks like being an excellent crop, possibly the best ever from this bush. But best not to count chickens.
Monday 21 May 2007
The Lady’s Smock is still in bloom. It’s a lovely small delicate pink flower. Best seen in mass in a meadow, but it is evocative to have even just a small clump in the garden, along with a patch of the fine sedge whose name I don’t know but which grows in the same damp meadow pastures. The slugs have inflicted further damage on the emerging dahlia shoots. It looks like slug pellets or no dahlias.
Friday 18 May 2007
No end in sight to this wet spell. It was needed, and the gardens have benefited. The grape vines have put on a significant spurt, as have the gooseberries, redcurrants and blackcurrants. The swifts have arrived. Circling and swooping high overhead, lots of them. But our robins have vanished. It’s a bit worrying. They were around everyday for so long. I can only hope they have nested somewhere nearby, and no longer visit our garden.
Thursday 17 May 2007
My comments yesterday about the explosion in snail and slug numbers due to the spell of wet weather have been further verified today. This morning I found slugs actually in situ on both dahlia shoots, which have been extensively and possibly fatally damaged. I removed them by hand and squashed them underfoot on the path. I also found a slug busy at work on a rhubarb leaf. This creature was despatched in a similar way. I am tempted to use slug pellets in a limited way. The squirrel has again been caught in the act, upside down on the birdtable, attacking the peanuts. The seven foot or so metal pole supporting the birdtable is not a barrier.
Wednesday 16 May 2007
The recent wet weather has certainly brought out the snails, and slugs. There are no song thrushes around to take the snails, and I have stopped using slug pellets. Not sure what to do. Roses are soon to be in bloom. Both the Ena Harkness and Compassion climbers, on the arch, are almost opening bud. New Dawn is growing quite strongly after a slow start and last year’s set back, when it began to look sickly with yellowing leaves and some blackspot.
Tuesday 15 May 2007
There is very limited space in the top garden for vegetables. I’ve already set a few early potatoes and reset a few rows of Jerusalem artichokes. My main efforts this year will be on marrows and runner beans. I plan to grow both from seed, which need sowing soon. One of the dahlias I planted has now broken through and is growing well; one other looks as though the slugs have cut through the stem just as it has emerged. I may need to take some defensive action. Perhaps bits of wire netting may act as a deterrent.
Monday 14 May 2007
The spell of showery weather and cooler temperatures over the past week has been welcome. It has tended to bring the garden back into season. I need to take some action over the lawns, which are now beginning to grow too long. I don’t worry about over- manicured grass these days, but the lawns do need to look neat, to set off the wild garden approach elsewhere.
The gooseberry crop looks like being a bumper year. I wonder if the grapes will match the huge harvest we had last year?
Thursday 10 May 2007
I bought a sack of ‘farmyard’ manure from the garden centre yesterday. How close it has ever been to a farmyard is open to speculation. This year I have had a good supply of my own garden compost, which has now been exhausted, and the new climbers need additional mulching. With the recent showery weather, there has been an explosive growth of weeds, including the pernicious bindweed. There seems no alternative to painstakingly digging up each bit. One of the dahlias is now just above ground.
Wednesday 9 May 2007
I’ve fixed a third trellis, inverted triangular shape, to the top fence, nearest to the south-west corner of the garden, and planted two new climbers near the base. These are clematis montana rubens, and honeysuckle lonicera periclymenum. This particular corner of the garden has been a difficult spot. Nothing has been successful there. The gooseberry bush is growing well, no sign of mould, with fine healthy foliage and a surprisingly large potential crop of fruit.
Thursday 3 May 2007
I have now installed two large fan-shaped trellises on the top fence, as part of a scheme to hide the unsightly corrugated iron. It looks better already, and the Russian vine will be able to climb more easily over this fence. I will extend this idea with a third trellis and another climber, may be honeysuckle or clematis.
Wednesday 2 May 2007
Weeds are growing rapidly everywhere. None more so than the bindweed. It seems to appear from nowhere overnight. The front lawn has been invaded by the bindweed in the borders. My tactic is to hand weed as soon as possible, with the aim of weakening the root system. Aquilegia - Granny’s Bonnet - is starting to flower. This plant self-seeds very prolifically, but it is delightful, with such a wide variety of colours and tints. Cowslips are nearly over, and the bluebells are in full flower.
Tuesday 1 May 2007
We pulled the first rhubarb sticks and made a delicious stewed rhubarb desert. The single rhubarb plant is a rescued survivor from the original clump of at least half a dozen plants. Since replanting it as little more than a bit of root eighteen months ago it has flourished. This spring it has grown at an amazing pace, producing a bumper crop replete with enormous leaves.
Monday 30 April 2007
The two grape vines are now starting to grow strongly. In the past week the buds have burst and the new shoots are growing vigorously. Last year we had an especially heavy crop of grapes, albeit small ones, but sweet. It will be interesting to see what this year’s harvest produces.
Sunday 29 April 2007
Early this morning I solved the mystery of the bird food disappearing from the bird table perched atop a seven foot metal post. It’s the squirrel. Caught in the act. The squirrel had no problem at all shinning up the metal post, and I had time to take a couple of photos in evidence. The loose food on the bird table has gone, and I saw the squirrel attempting to get peanuts from the wire grill holder.
Thursday 26 April 2007
I’ve bought three new herbs from the garden centre: parsley, peppermint and chamomile. I really should grow parsley from seed. The leaves of peppermint can be used to make excellent chocolate mints. I’ve planted the chamomile between the new stepping stones, which is a sort of compromise with a proper chamomile lawn. I tried the latter once, but it did not survive constant walking-over very well. My wildflower Lady’s Smock is now in bloom - a lovely delicate lilac. And talking of lilac, the Lilac tree blossom is now also in flower. Lilac blossom perfume is such a powerful reminder of childhood spring days.
Wednesday 25 April 2007
The bluebells are now in full bloom. There are just three small clumps of bluebells, in the open garden. I tried many years ago to naturalise them in the small ‘woodland’ area, without success. I will try again for next year - it ought to work, in what is potentially a more natural habitat.
Tuesday 24 April 2007
The lawns have survived the current dry spell quite well. The usual rapid lush early spring growth has not happened this year, but at least the lawns still look green. There’s a weed problem with the front lawn: unusually, it has bindweed on a surprisingly large scale. I am trying to control this bindweed by hand-weeding, hoping to avoid the use of chemical weedkillers. I also prefer to allow the lawns to have a less manicured look, with a managed wildflower population. How successful this strategy will be remains to be seen.
Monday 23 April 2007
The Russian vine that I moved about two months ago is growing very well. I was unsure whether it would survive the shock of the move. There has been no problem. It has quickly settled in at its site next to the new garden seat at the top fence, and is already pushing out fresh shoots over 30 cm long. A climber of this vigour is just what’s needed here. The Compassion and Ena Harkness roses are growing well on the arch, with at least five buds on the former.
Friday 20 April 2007
The weather has turned significantly colder this week, and the dry conditions have continued. It may not be a bad thing; growth was rushing ahead too fast in the exceptionally warm spring. There is still plenty of time for frost. I have replanted about twenty Jerusalem artichoke tubers. There are a few signs that ‘New Dawn’ is responding to the recent feeding.
Tuesday 17 April 2007
The south border looks much more cared-for now. The seven dahlia tubers are planted, and the michaelmas daisies moved to the western end of the border. However, the New Dawn climbing rose still seems lacking much vigour, despite copious feeding, watering, mulching and the excellent warm weather. I’ve planted a few Charlotte early potatoes. The rhubarb has grown rapidly and looks ready to provide the first sticks this year.
Friday 13 April 2007
I turned my attention to the south-facing border in the back garden today. This is probably the prime spot in the garden, but one I tend to neglect. In a good year I plant dahlias, which produce a very colourful display all summer. Otherwise, it makes do with the collection of perennials that has built up over the years: lavender bushes, rue, red hot poker, michaelmas daisies, rosemary, a prolific climbing rose ‘New Dawn’, a couple of other less successful bush roses and a clump of lovely large white daisy-like plants whose name escapes me. I have split up the daisies and planted them in several sites in the top garden, to clear a space for dahlias. I also intend replanting the michaelmas daisies.
Thursday 12 April 2007
Bought six strawberry plants - ‘Florence’ variety. My last attempt at growing strawberries, in the mini-greenhouse, was a disaster. The temperatures were far too high. So the new plants are in the open garden. It’s nice to have a taste of strawberries straight from the plant, but larger numbers of plants take up too much space in a small garden, unless you adopt special techniques. I also bought marrow seeds. I haven’t grown marrows for many years, but they can be a prolific and useful crop. I shall set these seeds in the mini-greenhouse to get them germinated early before planting out.
Wednesday 11 April 2007
This fine dry sunny weather continues. I’ve transplanted a chicory plant from the front garden to the top garden. The leaves are edible, in salads, though I have yet to sample them. Over Easter we did use leaves from the tansy to make Tansy Apples, which is a delicious pudding. It’s a valuable resource of gardening - growing herbs that are either unobtainable in the shops, or that are much better freshly picked. Herbs don’t generally take much space. They grow wild, but they’re sometimes difficult to find.
Tuesday 10 April 2007
The cowslips are in full bloom. These simple plants are a delight. Flowers don’t have to be large and gaudy to appeal. The weather over the Easter holiday period has been unusually warm, more like early May. I have now completed my project to install a garden seat at the top of the garden. I was able to enjoy sitting there in the early morning sunshine on Good Friday for the first time. My original little home-made bench is still by the north side fence at the top of the garden, but the new seat gives an unfamiliar view back straight down the garden, towards the house.
Tuesday 3 April 2007
The peonies are now showing strong bronze shoots about three or four inches long. These plants have been in the same location for many years. It’s a shady spot, along the north - facing fence. The peonies seem to prefer this spot; they have been less successful in sunnier sites. They give a showy display of large red blooms, without scent, and they are soon over. Although the weather is cooler than it was a few weeks ago, the garden generally is stirring and everything is starting to move. Not long before the explosion of growth by the time May arrives.
Monday 2 April 2007
I’m preparing a space at the very top of the garden for a garden seat. The ground needs to be cleared of perennial weeds, especially bindweed and ground elder. I shall then lay a small area of paving. The style of seat is undecided. Probably something inexpensive and simple. When complete, this little project will give a place to relax with a view back from the top of the garden, through the rose arch, between the trees towards the house.
Friday 30 March 2007
I’m not sure what the robins are up to with their nest building. About two weeks ago, they started building a nest in the old galvanised iron watering can which has been lodged in the lilac tree for several years. Then the activity seemed to become quieter. Today they have been busy nest-building in the garage. They get access through a gap at the top of the garage doors. I haven’t checked exactly where the nest is - I think it is on an open cupboard shelf in the corner. If this really is a serious build, it follows on last year, when robins also built in the garage, getting in the same way. I don’t know whether these are the same pair as last year, or even whether they are the same pair who started the nest in the watering can.
Thursday 29 March 2007
My seed potatoes are being chitted indoors and will soon be ready for planting, together with the Jerusalem artichokes that I have harvested and have not been eaten. There simply isn’t room in a small garden to plant rows and rows of potatoes. My aim is to make the best use of available space, by planting the potatoes in small clusters among the other plants. This year I’m growing Charlotte, which is a nice salad potato.
Wednesday 28 March 2007
Another lovely sunny warm Spring day, after the morning mist had cleared. I visited the garden centre this afternoon, and bought two dahlia tubers, ‘Suffolk Punch’ and ‘Penelope’. Many years ago the entire north border was filled with dahlias, and a riot of colour every summer. Gradually we lost them to frost and disease through not lifting the tubers every winter. I have decided to reintroduce at least a few varieties this year, to give a splash of colour around the garden.
Tuesday 27 March 2007
Today is another glorious blue, sunny, warm day, after a misty early morning. One of the pleasures of gardening of course is just to sit down and enjoy the garden. I’m preparing the site for a new seat, right at the top of the garden, next to the Russian vine I transplanted about a month ago and which is growing well in its new location. I think it was Geoff Hamilton who quoted a gardener who said: ‘Sometimes I sits and thinks; sometimes I just sits.’
Monday 26 March 2007
I’ve been away, and saw the garden today for the first time in five days. I’m pleased it looks fine. A few holes dug by the foxes, and a broken fence, but it is still not that time of the year - May /June, when in just a week the garden can grow away almost out of control. I put in another six foxglove plants last Wednesday. I hope I can establish a self-seeding colony of foxgloves. Daffodils are in bloom , and the tulips are not far behind. I used to have a good number of muscari. Last year I rescued the last plant. I was pleased to see it is coming into bloom. And the rhubarb plant I rescued two years ago, the last of a once-thriving patch, is growing vigorously.
The next entry in gardenBlog will be on Monday 26 March
Wednesday 21 March 2007
Today is the first day of Spring. It’s a lovely blue day, though cold after a frosty night. Activity on the bird table has been monopolised by the robins lately. I’ve spotted one starling, and what I think is a house sparrow. The sparrows are so rare now that I have to look twice and think about it before being sure of the identification. The tits have definitely shown much less interest in the past week or so. Just an occasional visit. I wonder why this is?
Tuesday 20 March 2007
There simply isn’t room in a small garden to grow large quantities of vegetables like potatoes, or indeed large quantities of any vegetables. You need an allotment for that. However, it’s well worth making an effort to grow even just a small quantity, to experience the improvements in flavour and taste that freshly-harvested crops provide. So I try to grow a few potatoes each year, usually first earlies. This year I’m going to plant a few Charlotte variety salad potatoes, for the first time. I hope to get them in the ground within the next ten days, weather permitting.
Monday 19 March 2007
Winter seems to have returned today, after the recent exceptionally mild days. There was a light snowfall overnight, which has quickly vanished in the sunshine. The frost is probably not severe enough to check seriously anything in our garden. The Russian Vine transplanted nearly three weeks ago is showing clear evidence of growth, with small green shoots and leaves appearing. I doubt whether it will be affected by the frost. In the past week, there has been significant growth in most plants. The gooseberry bushes are clothed in light green leaves, and the rhubarb is pushing strongly through the covering of compost.
Friday 16 March 2007
I never seem to have any luck with foxgloves self-seeding. Consequently, I buy new plants from the garden centre each year. I’ve bought two more plants this week, and placed them near the new stepping stones. Self-seeding is never a problem in our garden for lemon balm, aquilegia or feverfew. But foxgloves don’t provide this freely available supply of new plants. I wonder why. No thrushes in the garden these days, and the house sparrows, once so numerous with their friendly chirruping, have vanished. It would be so nice to see even just one or two around.
Thursday 15 March 2007
Today I’ve tidied-up the blackberry bushes at the top fence. I had neglected them, so they have become unwieldy, and made the path almost impenetrable without getting scratches from the thorns. It seemed a pity, because we get a good crop from them each year. I’m now taking them more seriously. The dead wood has been cut out, and I’ve tied the canes back to the fence. It has always been a pleasure blackberrying in the garden. The blue tits have paid another visit to the bird table. And I saw what I took to be a greenfinch, with rather unusual colouring.
Wednesday 14 March 2007
The present dry warm sunny weather, coming after weeks of rain, has given the whole garden a growth surge at the time when it most needs it - in early spring. There is a risk of frost still, which could cause a really serious setback. I don’t know what has happened to the great tits and blue tits. They have abandoned the bird table. Great tits are certainly still around; their song is heard nearly all day, every day. It’s just the pair of robins who are building a nest in the old watering can in the lilac tree who are constant visitors to feed at the table at the moment.
Tuesday 13 March 2007
The harvest of Jerusalem artichokes has been abundant this year. They are an easy crop to grow, and provide an unusual and pleasant addition to the range of vegetables. However, it seems they are not really artichokes at all! The name is a corruption of an earlier name. The true artichokes are the globe variety. I have just two plants of globe artichokes, neither of which produced anything edible last year, despite the highly decorative silvery foliage. I’ve now moved them from a cramped position near the path, to give them more room in a central position. The transplanting has produced an alarming leaf droop, but this morning it had recovered dramatically overnight, so perhaps the damage is limited.
Monday 12 March 2007
The drier and sunnier weather has continued. It seems more like early May than mid-March in the garden. But plenty of time for a cold snap. I’ve been making use of the compost from one of my three compost bins. It’s ideal for spreading round the base of plants as a mulch. I’ve used it for the vines, apple and pear trees, gooseberries and blackcurrants, globe artichokes, roses and several other plants. It has taken about two years for this bin to be ready for use. It’s amazing how so much organic material reduces to so little compost - but a little goes a long way.
Friday 9 March 2007
A few days of drier and sunnier weather are helpful in the garden, with so much tidying-up to do. An essential job is remaking longstanding beds of herbs. I’ve already replanted my tansy patch. Tansy is excellent for tansy apple. The mint bed needs bringing under control. I’ve had an excellent lovage corner for many years, probably around twenty, without disturbing it at all. It is a vigorous herb, with lovely coppery early shoots, and fine tall stems, with a smell of celery. I noticed last year a slight loss of vigour, so I shall try to replant it without too much of a check to the lovage shoots just emerging.
Thursday 8 March 2007
Last year we had a superb crop of green grapes from the two vines. It would be good to get a similar harvest this year, but I’m not confident. Pruning grapes is an art I’ve not mastered. All I have done this year is trimmed a few straggling branches, to tidy the vines. I suspect I should have pruned much harder, earlier, to generate new branches for this year’s crop. We shall see. Yesterday I bought three new wooden stakes, and two eight foot green plastic covered metal poles, which I put in place to tie the vine branches. At least the vines are now secured and tidy, ready for the explosion of growth that will occur before long.
Our pair of robins have started to build a nest. It’s in an old metal watering can I put in the branches of the lilac tree. They carry on busily adding to the nest, not in the least worried by my presence.
Wednesday 7 March 2007
I’m still busy making structural and design changes and clearing the ground in the top garden. This is going to occupy me for most of the month. The three compost bins are almost full. It’s amazing how the waste organic material put in decomposes and reduces in volume so much. Two of the bins have sliding interlocking side panels, which tend to burst open under the pressure as the bins fill. My plan is to empty two of the bins and use most of the compost to form a low mound in the centre of the garden. I hope to use this compost mound to grow marrows and courgettes.
Tuesday 6 March 2007
A garden mystery! Late yesterday morning I noticed that one of the Fat Snax - the ball of fat and seeds - was missing from the bird table. I thought it might have blown off the hook from which it was suspended, during the squally weather. But there was no trace of it on the ground. It looks as though the squirrels have found a way to reach the table. It was the lowest Fat Snax. Perhaps a squirrel was able to scramble up the metal post and grab it. I can’t quite picture a squirrel carrying off one of these relatively large items, in its green plastic net. I’ll stay on the case.
Monday 5 March 2007
Another early morning walk round the garden, to take advantage of the glorious morning sun. A lovely morning, but distinctly colder, although no overnight frost. The weather pattern lately has been fine mornings, turning cloudy in the afternoon, with showers or rain in the evening. And windy, though I shouldn’t complain about that in March. The new paths with stepping stones look good, and allow much better access to the garden. At the weekend I divided some of the chives and transplanted them alongside the new stepping stones. Chives make a nice border. One daffodil is in bloom, a yellow crocus, and a purple one. The snowdrops are rapidly fading. I must label the clumps to avoid inadvertently disturbing them during the year.
Friday 2 March 2007
I walked round the garden early this morning. A glorious morning! Not 'officially’ Spring, but the seasons are hardly officially anything anymore. A lovely bright, sunny, crisp morning. Just makes you glad to be alive! The top garden is looking cared-for after my recent work starting on the new paths. My robin friend soon spotted me, and sat on a grapevine branch eying me up. Robins do look plump, but this one looked plumper than usual. Might be all the feeding on the fat snax and peanuts on the bird table. Can birds suffer from obesity? I’ve cleaned the bird bath. It had become mucky and discoloured over the autumn and winter.
Thursday 1 March 2007
I wondered how long it would take the squirrels to find the new bird table! Today I saw the first squirrel taking an interest. It did a balancing act along the fence top down the north side of the garden, then came on the lawn beneath the bird table, picking up scraps of peanuts and seeds that birds have scattered below. Watching very closely, as it was eating I saw it cast its eye up to the table. In a minute, it clambered into the rosemary bush near the table. It seemed about to attempt the two metre leap. I wouldn’t have been surprised - I’ve seen the squirrels perform prodigious leaps from branch to branch high up in the chestnut tree tops. But it didn’t have a go. I think the rosemary branch was too bendy to allow the squirrel to propel itself with enough power. Thinking better of it, it retired back to the fence top, and sat for three minutes eating a plump rose hip from last year’s New Dawn crop that was still on the briars.
Wednesday 28 February 2007
Foxes are frequent - daily – visitors to our garden. I think they have a den at the top of the garden, somewhere between our fence and the outbuilding of the house at the back. On the whole they are welcome. I occasionally put food out for them. They seem partial to tinned cat food. The main complaint is that they are always digging holes. It is never very clear why they dig. A month or two ago I found a dead fox in the garden. I buried it several feet down, and covered the grave well.
When I walked round the garden this morning, there was a small hole on the grave, and bits of grey fur scattered around. The grave had not been seriously disturbed, and I have now covered it with two zinc dustbin lids.
Tuesday 27 February 2007
I took advantage of a dry fine day to begin work in the top garden making three new paths. They will be stepping stones. True, the new paths will diminish the total area of ground available for plants. But access will be improved. And they will allow new additional walks around the garden. Clearing the ground for the first section, I unearthed a load of Jerusalem artichoke tubers, which I’d forgotten about. They are an underestimated vegetable. We cooked some for supper. They look like unusually white smooth potatoes when cooked, but have a delicious silky texture. At least I made a little start on this project. My efforts were watched at very close range by a pair of robins. I’m sure they are the two who have been frequenting the bird table lately.
Monday 26 February 2007
At the top of the garden is a wooden fence. The people at the back attached six feet high corrugated iron sheets to the fence many years ago, which has always looked unsightly. I’ve been undecided what to do about it, partly because is it not visible from the house, and also because I wasn’t sure of the best idea. Over the weekend I’ve made up my mind to plant Russian Vine along the fence, and train it over the corrugated sheets. This would also solve the problem of what to do with my existing Russian Vine that has been growing rampantly for several years further down the garden. Provided it is feasible to transplant, it is a ready-made solution.
Friday 23 February 2007
The wood pigeons have now mastered the art of feeding at the bird table! Two pigeons stood side by side on the roof of the table. One flew off and was able, by a clever in-flight manoeuvre, to alight on the table ledge. The table size isn’t pigeon-friendly. It’s designed with robins and blue tits in mind. But by lowering its head, the pigeon was able to peck the fat snax on the table. It was soon joined by the second pigeon. The two could just manage to fit on the table together. After a few minutes,they returned to the roof together, where they began to show more interest in each other than in the food.
Thursday 22 February 2007
Seems less bird activity on the table, since the supply of peanuts and sunflower seeds on the table itself has all been taken. Birds seem a bit reluctant to make the extra effort to extract food from the wire and plastic dispensers, and from the fat snax plastic nets. Perhaps they have just got used to being ‘spoon fed’, and will soon return. Yesterday I bought two large flagstones from the garden centre, which I shall use to create more garden paths in the top garden. It’s still very mild for February, but has turned wet today, which makes the soil less workable.
Wednesday 21 February 2007
A bit of work today tidying the front garden border by the drive. This needed doing before I can trim and straighten the lawn edge, using the aluminium edging that has been so effective on the other sides of the lawn. I find that green plastic edging soon breaks up. Most houses here have paved the front lawn, for car parking. I feel that a healthy lawn sets off the front garden in a unique way. It doesn’t have to be closely cut and manicured to perfection. I like to leave the grass quite long, but weed free, except for a sprinkling of daisies. Years ago I used to eradicate even daisies ruthlessly. Not now.
Tuesday 20 February 2007
I have started to tidy-up the top garden close to the paths. The risk is disturbing perennials that have died right back, or even inadvertently getting rid of them. The advantage is that an early start on clearing away the unwanted plants from last year, before much growth starts, saves effort later. The paths around the garden are a feature I enjoy. They enable a walk round the garden, even though the garden is relatively small. I’m tempted to add another path or two this year. It’s partly a balance between a pleasant walkway, and taking up valuable growing area.
Monday 19 February 2007
There’s no doubt that the bird numbers feeding at my bird table have increased steadily. The most common species are robins, great tits and blue tits. At the weekend I saw a greenfinch for the first time at the table. The total number of different species to date is now seven. I shall watch for new visitors. No sign of siskins yet, and I don’t recall ever having identified a siskin in the garden.
Yesterday I got rid of a very old Rosemary bush from the drive border. A bit sad, because it was coming into bloom, in February! Those misty blue flowers are beautiful. Must have been a good fifteen or more years old. I’ve got three others, so my plan is to take cuttings this year to renew the stock.
Friday 16 February 2007
I’ve noticed that blackbirds never come to the bird table to feed. But there is a blackbird now, a female, feeding on scraps that have fallen on the grass immediately below the bird table. At the same time as a robin is on the table, pecking at the ‘fat snax’. Robins seem partial to the ‘fat snax’, alternating between them and the peanuts on the table. They even divide their attention between the ‘fat snax’ on the table, and those hanging in the plastic nets down the side of the post. Robins seem to be more inquisitive and adaptable that some other birds, and of course this often shows in their choice of nesting sites as well.
Thursday 15 February 2007
Yesterday saw blue tits, great tits, robins and a house (or possibly hedge) sparrow feeding at the bird table. There was also for the first time a pigeon. It had evidently spotted that food was available here, and alighted on the roof of the bird table to investigate. It seemed to be looking for a way to reach the food. Strutting backwards and forwards over the roof, then craning its neck down. But the food was too far away. Meanwhile small birds were coming and going. Finally, the pigeon attempted, clumsily, to fly and hover at the food table level. It failed, and after three attempts flew away in despair or disgust.
Wednesday 14 February 2007
The garden is recovering from a rainy night. I saw a starling feeding from a hanging fat seed ball earlier this morning. Starling numbers in the garden have declined dramatically in recent years, like the song thrushes. It’s good to see a few starlings around. Before dawn there is a noisy chorus these mornings, and the blackbird alarm call is a regular feature. I wonder what is the cause of the alarm? Could it be a prowling fox? Or maybe the sparrowhawk that was in the garden recently is still around? Or perhaps the magpies are the culprits?
Tuesday 13 February 2007
This morning is sunny and dry. I’ve been watching blue tits feeding at the table. They swoop down, grab a peanut, and immediately fly off to a branch to nibble at the nut. I saw one tit wedge the nut in the fork of a branch before pecking at it. They ignore the hanging food dispensers filled with peanuts, and sunflower seeds, and go straight to the table. I haven’t seen them show any interest in the fat seed balls yet. The robins are different. They come to the table, and eat the peanuts in situ.
Monday 12 February 2007
I bought a bird table about ten days ago. It is small, and doesn’t have its own stand, so I’ve fixed it at the top of the washing line post. There are several advantages in this location. From the birds’ point of view, it is a safe feeding place, some nine feet from the ground, at the top of a slim metal post which a squirrel, cat or other predator would have great difficulty scaling, and not accessible from nearby bushes or buildings. For me, it is easily observed from my study window, and from the kitchen side window downstairs.
Friday 9 February 2007
For the first year I can recall it was possible to garden in January. Not just tidying up, or a bit of pruning, or design changes, but actually work the soil. The soil was friable and not the usual sodden compacted mass. I was able to transplant snowdrops from the back garden to the front, without damage to the bulbs. The soil was as workable as it would be in April in a usual year.
Before I claim too much for climate change, February has seen a frosty spell and snow, getting gardening back more in line with the calendar.
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