Our patch of green

Fruit, of a sort

2006-08-03T08:13:00.000Z

It felt like a crime but had to pinch out the olives that were developing on the two plants. Just didn’t think that they were ready to put all that energy into fruiting. Would rather they grew some more, been inspired by the trees present in the show gardens at Hampton Court. You can’t eat the olives in any case until they have been cured. That’s a little project for another year (or two or three)…

Also removed the second batch of budding figs. Again, I’d rather have the tree mature a bit more than invest energy and resources into developing fruit. For some reason the tree hasn’t grown as much as previous years, although it has been watered and feed regularly.

And for the first time ever (drum roll please) I’ve got a quince ripening on the bush. This is more out of curiosity than anything else – never grown one before. It’s only tiny and at the moment resembles a gooseberry rather than a yellow pear.

RHS time

2006-08-02T07:44:00.000Z

Seems like ages ago now although it was only at the beginning of last month when we journeyed to the suburbs in west London and joined the crowds heading towards the RHS Hampton Court Flower Show. It’s a lovely setting for the show as we meandered through the palace gardens in search of entrance. With a lot more space available the crowds weren’t as intense as Chelsea – which was a relief! The show gardens were scattered throughout the grounds and there were plenty of stalls offering different wares.

There wasn’t a particular garden provoking that ‘wow’ reaction although in one they had decided to feature olive trees. And the specimens that they found were impressive: wizened, gnarled, twisted and so so old with thick wide trunks and curvy short branches.

It was all relatively informal and we took a leisurely approach enjoying a few refreshment stops en route – got to savour my first Pimms for the year (very yummy!) under a brightening sky. Wasn’t sure if an afternoon was enough to see all the exhibitors and we didn’t have time to head into many of the tents. Guess its Tatton Park next year.

Lemons

2006-08-01T08:29:00.000Z

Last year Deb told me about how she grew a lemon tree from seed as a kid with her mom. Later that year Nath gave it a go and was pretty successful with three plants. So took Nath’s advice earlier this summer and sowed a few lemon pips in hope that they might germinate. Only four weeks later and there were three pale green tips poking through the compost resulting in two seedlings (lost one along the way). The high temperatures must have helped with the whole process and hopefully given them a good start. Since it’s been so warm I’ve started keeping them outside – help them prepare for the winter ahead in my cold house! Not sure that they will fruit because, as Al pointed out, the fruit might have been irradiated, ah well, time will tell.

Ripe for the picking

2006-06-30T14:11:00.000Z

Planted out Al’s raspberry canes over a month ago, much later than when they should have gone in the ground. This probably explains why they haven’t grown much but the fruit has developed and tastes amazing… sweet yet tart, and delicious with some yogurt, banana and cashew nuts. Might have a few more berries to enjoy over the weekend and then it’ll be a years wait for some home grown fruit. Just a little concerned about the yellow/orange freckles that have appeared. Got a sneaking suspicion that it might be rust. Going to cut them back as recommended, and thin out the canes which didn’t take and now resemble brown shriveled twigs. This will hopefully improve aeration round the plants and reduce any rust. Any resulting succulent red packages of fruity goodness are definitely worth the effort!

Shrooms…

2006-06-29T15:58:00.000Z

Got back from Cork a few weeks ago and noticed that there tiny mushrooms (or toadstools) in between the Mesembryanthemum – Livingstone Daisies – planted in the pots. Initially the mushrooms/toadstools – what is the difference? – were present in one pot but now they have appeared in another also with Mesembryanthemum.

All the daisies were potted out in containers and covered with gravel (to retain precious moisture). Was wondering whether the spores were in the compost used, gravel or from the water? The water level in the butt is dwindling to the point where is disappeared over the weekend. Was, therefore, a happy gardener on Monday when the heavens opened! Any how, thought this might be a good point to clean out the butt and took a peek inside (first time in a year – oops). In about 1cm of water there was plenty of sediment which could contain spores. Got a job to do over the weekend, there is a water butt to clean.

Wrong again

2006-06-27T12:29:00.000Z

So much for those brown fingers! Okay Arctic Queen and her snow-white, semi-double flowers has gone to join the giant flower-patch-in-the-sky, but the pink clematis, inherited with the garden, is flowering away. And the passion flower has started to bloom, have one flower so far but there are signs suggesting more is on the way! It’s really taken to the spot and is scrambling up the garage wall, weaving between the jasmine and apple tree. Although don’t want to encourage it in that particular direction otherwise it will smother the tree which is what Burt’s honeysuckle is trying to do!

Floppy poppy

2006-06-09T13:00:00.000Z

They were magnificent upright stems until the rains a few weeks back but that hasn’t diminished their elegance whilst flowering. The pale pink petals have lasted a lot longer than last year, and it’s been the longest display so far. The poppy was a gift from Nilani as she was dividing her plants. And five years on it has really taken to the garden. Going to divide it later in the year and think I should be able to get three or four plants – one has obviously been promised to Dee.

Visited Wakefield Place yesterday, which was beautiful. After a walk round the gardens we ventured into the walled garden, it was a delight – a proper cottage garden. They had two varieties, Patties Plum and Royal Wedding. The first was a gorgeous honey edged plum colour and the second was an ivory white. Going to see if I can find one of each, since poppies seem immune to S&S and thrive in Our Patch of Green! Purple, pink and white crepe-paper like flowers to start the summer – can’t wait!

Flowers for August

2006-06-07T12:31:00.000Z

Yes, picked up some plants for the wedding this weekend. The Nicotiana are all in the ground with some short canes for support. Thought that if you’re going to do the job might as well do it properly! Was gutted this morning to see two snails chomping through one of the plants in the back garden. Revenge was sweet as they crackled under foot.

These are plants in the front, so far they have been unmolested. They are positioned around the pinks and sweet williams. Was thinking that this way there should be colour throughout the summer.

Plan B

2006-06-05T12:19:00.000Z

Just as I thought, any seedlings that were emerging have been eaten. So much for the idea of a meadow area. Still, have some seeds that were kept back for this eventuality. Am determined to have an area full of poppies, cornflowers and other mixed annuals! Out went the second lot yesterday – fingers-crossed that they get a chance to grow.

First time for everything

2006-06-01T12:11:00.000Z

Here, hopefully, is my first picture for the blog. It's a pressie from Suzy for my birthday last year. Something that always makes me smile. Been busy with some housekeeping and have uploaded a few more pictures onto the site. Feeling quite techie!

And it's still alive!

2006-05-26T14:53:00.000Z

Have developed (an unwanted!) knack of killing off climbers. There was a pink clematis when I first moved in, which lasted a year... Next to perish was a purple clematis which flowered and died. Then there was the Arctic Queen. Thought I was going to have to add the passion flower to the list. But no, the climber is putting out new shoots and tendrils. Not expecting any colour this year just glad that it’s still with us! The honey suckle seems to have taken to its container as it is flowering. Maybe I should just steer clear of clematises? Hmmm.

Continuous battering

2006-05-22T14:41:00.000Z

Like most gardeners I’ve welcomed the rain even if it does mean that I can’t get out to do anything (apart from crush the odd snail – stepping on slugs just ain’t as satisfying). However, didn’t really consider the damage the wind would do… The once vertical aquilegias have been flattened. The honeysuckle stems that were reaching upwards are now dangling horizontally (this is even after they were entwined with the last year’s remains of Arctic Queen – which I must cut back). Also featuring the horizontal look is the oriental poppy, with leaves and flowers splayed across the path and surrounding plants. It was given as a present from a friend at work and has really adapted to the garden. Going to divide the plant this autumn as it’s been left to its own devices for the last three years. I’m so glad the hollyhocks were supported a few weeks ago. I guess the silver-lining is that the water butt is continually replenished and the seeds for the meadow patch (planted last weekend) have been watered and are beginning to emerge. Just hoping that a few will make it to maturity before they are consumed by the hordes of slugs and snails!

And over to the blues

2006-05-12T14:50:00.000Z

It’s that time of year again when the bluebells and irises are out in full force. They are a little thin on the ground compared with last year. I pulled up loads of irises during the summer in an exasperated attempt to get rid of the weeds that delight in growing up through their tubers. Although I don’t regret the decision it does mean that there are less shades of blue than usual.

Blue seems to be the colour of the moment judging from the results in our council elections. It is the first time (since moving to the area) that the blues have taken the majority, albeit by three seats.

Twilight fragrances

2006-05-05T15:31:00.000Z

It’s something I’ve noticed on my way home over the last couple of weeks. There are so many delicate fragrances floating on the air, it’s dreamy.

Against the clear, deep blue evenings the cherry blossom along my road could be mistaken for pink fluffy balls of cotton wool rather than flowers. And at this time of night the small white flowers on the Mexican Orange Blossom are vivid in the half light. I’m sure that all the other flowering shrubs and climbs are just adding to the ambience… bliss!

Rust or bust…

2006-05-03T07:50:00.000Z

Got a soft spot for hollyhocks probably because its one of the few perennials that does return year after year. Unfortunately so does the rust. There must have been spores lying latent in the ground as every individual has succumb to infection. Since the beginning of year I’ve been dutifully removing any leaves showing the orange signs – I’ve been busy! Don’t think that I’ll be able to get rid of the fungus Puccinia malvacearum since its apparently prevalent and online advice suggests that the best line of attack of defence?!? They are definitely worth the effort for the bees, butterflies, spiders and me fully appreciate their open simple flowers.

This weekend those individuals that weren’t pulled up at the end of the year have been given some solid support to grow against. A solitary bamboo cane just ain’t enough for these towering giants. Hopefully that’ll keep ‘em upright and out of the garden path. In the past there have been creamy-white, dusty-pink and peachy flowers. Have no idea what colours are going to appear this year. Ah, so easily pleased!

It’s not a competition but…

2006-04-21T10:07:00.000Z

…the tulips are out before the daffs! Admittedly the daffs are in the dampest part of the garden which receives pitiful amounts of sunshine. And the tulips are located in the sunniest part of the border, worshiping the sun all day long (cloud coverage permitting). There are plenty of greens, whites and yellows about so those vivid reds really stand out! The daffs are slowly emerging revealing several pale cream blossoms with a bright orange centre per stem (also known as tazetta daffodils). This is the first time daffs have featured in the garden. I’m thinking of adding bulbs to the front which is distinctly lacking colour at the mo. Maybe some purple or pink tulips positioned between the lavender next to the box? Oh, looking forward to autumn now and those catalogues!

Green (or should that be yellow?) alternative

2006-04-20T11:27:00.000Z

The rose bushes are alive with healthy red-blushed shoots and foliage. Recently read a (potentially great) tip about feeding them diced banana skins. Apparently they adore the potassium released during decomposition. Since trying to go green I haven’t been applying any rose feed to the plants and they have responded in kind… a few flowers on skeletal structures – bare of any foliage. Hopefully the chopped up banana skins will revive my inherited cultivars enabling continuous bloomage all summer long. Have been adding skins to two bushes and will obviously(!) let you know how they get on.

First casualty?

2006-04-13T07:51:00.000Z

There are no shoots, no buds, no leaves, nothing. This is the first time in four years that the clematis has decided to stay dormant. Dormant might be a little optimistic since it should be showing some signs of life by now. The days are getting longer and sun’s stronger, the ground’s warmer, and other plants have sprung back to life: garlic, rocket, poppy, hollyhock, aquilegia. So the Arctic Queen is my first casualty this year. It’s gone to join that veggie patch in the sky. And I don’t even know why? Was it pruned too late? Too cold and dry over winter? Going to have to chalk it down to (the growing number of) life’s mysteries.

100 v. 0

2006-04-12T07:28:00.000Z

These are the germination success rates for the sunflower and foxglove seeds. Thankfully didn’t sow the foxglove hybrid varieties that I bought at Chelsea last year. Will wait till its a little warmer. Decided to water all the seeds with water claimed from the butt since the tap water is incredibly hard (yup, it’s got muscles and everything!). I think that the tell-tale limescale build-up around the base of the pots was the give away.

Pieris strikes again

2006-04-11T15:25:00.000Z

Nope not the Gunners midfielder Pires, but my Pieris japonica which is happily blooming away with pendulous large clusters of fragrant white flowers. It’s such a great shrub as it's low maintenance. The only attention it needs during the summer is the (regular) contents of a watering can since it’s fully exposed to those UV rays from mid morning to late afternoon. They are native to the forests and hillsides of the Himalayas and like partial shade, so perhaps mine isn’t in the best position. When it’s happy lots of new pinky-tinted foliage appears regardless of the time of year – always a treat!

The golden crowd?

2006-04-07T08:51:00.000Z

And there I was worried about them being blind! It was probably just the cold weather and my heavy clay soil holding them back. But over the last few days the daffs have shot up to a respectable height. Heads are beginning to emerge suggesting that there will be another patch of yellow (in addition to the primroses). Can’t wait to find out what colour they are going to be…pale, creamy, bright, white, golden, yellow, orange? Will be happy with any! And might even have a photo or two!!!

Late arrivals

2006-04-07T08:22:00.000Z

Ah ha, the squirrels didn’t get all of Suzy & Chris’s bulbs! There is a clump of creamy yellow flowers which has been joined by a purple individual. Belatedly realized that the container might get dry so have added some shingle to reduce any water loss – which I’m anticipating will be a recurring theme this year. Should really have got that second water butt hooked up.

Potty about colour

2006-03-24T13:23:00.000Z

On my last trip to Kew I bought a rich-purple coloured pot with the intention of adding some colour to my otherwise neutral home. Dee and I went a little crazy at the nursery last month and bought loads of plants for the house. The aim was to get something preferably in bright pink (Chio would be proud), mauve, burgundy, or purple.

We noticed a plant with leaves similar to primrose and a multi-flowering head of blue/purple called ‘Kim’, botanically known as Streptocarpus. It is indigenous to southern Africa and has been continuously flowering for the last month. Didn’t realize that it was so popular, and glad that there is some info on the web concerning its welfare since nothing was provided with the plant apart from the basics.

Also decided to get another native from that region, Asparagus setaceus, which is currently housed in a cream pot. This fern-like shrub has delicate feathery green leaves – bootiful foliage. I’ve asked Shar to paint the pot so that it compliments the throw she brought back from Morocco... I’m thinking dusty pinks, cool blues, silvery purples or mossy greens.

Sound advice

2006-03-22T12:49:00.000Z

Got to catch up with Gardener’s Question Time on Sunday afternoon before heading off to the yoga beginners’ course. If there isn’t a class then I usually listen to the radio whilst pottering about. One of the plants that the panel discussed was chilli pepper. I have two failed attempts with this vegetable under my belt and reckon its third time lucky! One of the tips they suggested was to make sure that the plants are in pots with plenty of space, something I have neglected. In the past they have been sown in the smallest pot available, then forgotten until they germinate and watered whenever they appear a little limp. Not the best approach for healthy, productive, plants. After listening to the show I’m tempted to try one more time.

At least I caught one programme over the weekend. My first Friday night in for ages, I’m scanning through the TV guide checking the schedule and what a disappointment! No gardening programmes tonight only highlights from the Commonwealth Games. Was looking forward to catching up with Monty and team - after checking out the Gardeners' World website I'll have to wait until the end of the month, but look at what they are trialling!

Splashes of colour

2006-03-08T16:17:00.000Z

It’s not going to be as impressive as the carpet that Kew have arranged for their spring planting, due to the presence of 5 million bulbs, but there will be more colour this month with my bulbs making an appearance, yay!

At the moment there are two clumps of the giant snowdrops flowering away. The flowers are so delicate and small compared with the deep green thick leaves – I have to admit that this is a name that I’ve given them since I’m not sure what they are called. As you might have guessed it’s a large version of a snowdrop! This has been their best year – usually they have been disappointing with only a few flowers.

Next coming up are the crocuses – again there are large clusters scattered about. The daffs are slowly appearing, I think that I might have planted them too deep since they are all emerging at different times.

And my primrose has been flowering away despite the snails/slugs. The leaves are riddled with holes but thankfully they haven’t attacked the pale yellow petals. Looking forward to the hybrid varieties adding their rich velvety burgundy to the border.

Cuts and scratches

2006-03-07T08:59:00.000Z

Sunday was the first day I have managed to get into the garden for months. It felt great! The air was crisp, the sky was blue, the sun was warming but the ground was definitely cold. Got through all my tasks and a few extras...

· The intention was to repot the honeysuckle that mom bought last year – check.
· Then add some compost to the roses – check.
· Remove weeds from irises – check.
· Wash terracotta and plastic pots – check.
· Cut back dead stalks from the lemon balm – check.
· Prune roses so that you don’t get caught on them whilst walking along the path – check.

Only then I got distracted. Now that the artichokes are just tubers the whole garden is exposed… Realised that the brambles have been busy during my absence, and set down roots in a couple of places. Of course they are located at the back of the border and you have to negotiate with the roses before reaching them. 15 minutes later my fingers, hands and wrists were stinging from various cuts, nicks, scratches and splinters... I guess no pain, no brambles?

Under pressure…

2006-02-28T16:43:00.000Z

Back in May I mentioned that two good friends were (finally!) becoming honest women. And what an unforgettable day/night/wee-hours-of-the-morning Suzy’s wedding was!

Karen and Nath are exchanging vows in August and suggestions for the flowers have been made; since a few of us offered to help provide some colour for the big day. Given the growing conditions necessary I’ve opted for the moisture loving plants. (Still going to try my hand at nicotiana, since they are sooo beautiful.) On the list were Masterwort (Astrantia major Roma) and Japanese Anemones (Anemone x hybrida Queen Charlotte and September Charm). I’ve warned Karen not to expect too much from me lest the flowers decide to put in an early appearance! There are two borders that I’d like to dedicate to the wedding so that the plants have plenty of room to bloom. Getting a little apprehensive about producing a few flowers for a friend's wedding in 6 months time – can’t begin to imagine the emotional state of exhibitors at national shows!

Sciurus Carolinensis

2006-01-20T10:34:00.000Z

Cute when you’re young and irksome when you’re older. It seems that the Grey Squirrel has taken a shine to my bulbs and would prefer them as a snack than a flower. This would explain the holes that have appeared in my pots, voids that correspond to the position of the bulbs.

Then last week I noticed one scampering along and down the branch towards the bird feeder. There it started to demolish the nuts. It took the squirrel(s) two days to finish them off. And to think I was beginning to enjoy the company of blue and great tits, blackbirds and sparrows… Frustrating doesn’t begin to describe it.

Fireworks

2006-01-20T10:23:00.000Z

The display on the South Bank was great on New Years Eve. Shar and I had an excellent view in front of the London Eye. It seemed to last for ages, and I particularly enjoyed the gold that exploded and then floated over the river. A couple of days later I noticed a strange wooden/cane stick in the grass. It was stuck in the ground at an angle with a green cylinder attached to the side. That’s not a firework is it? Have plenty of experience in the ‘ohhing and ahhing’ department but absolutely zip in the purchasing and setting off. I’m a little apprehensive about approaching it, but figure its not going to do me any harm unless I’m carrying a flame – not likely!!! Well it’s got to go – it’s absolutely ruining the vista to the garage!

Home Sweet Home

2005-12-16T13:41:00.000Z

Ah it’s great to be back. Didn’t suffer from jetlag this time round (thankfully – was dreading sleepless nights with your mind in overdrive). Our patch of green is looking a little forlorn. I can’t wait to get out there and tidy up, keep slipping on and squishing the rotting apples that are scattered about the place.

It was all a mad rush before leaving so I didn’t have a chance to bring in the dahlias or olives – although I’ll admit that I didn’t think that they would come to much harm... Was only away for four weeks right? Whilst enjoying another downpour in Sydney I learnt that a cold snap was hitting Europe – NO! A quick inspection and the olives are fine but I can’t tell with the dahlias until next year…

It seems that in my absence the only plants to have really suffered were the chilli but then they died on me last year too…

A few holiday tales…

2005-12-13T13:03:00.000Z

The holiday was great – got to catch up with friends that have decided living on the other side of the world is for them, and quickly established that I couldn’t be a gardener in Australia. Far too many nasty creepy crawlies, large and small, that aren’t just satisfied with existence no, they enter your bedroom and loiter on the wall for fun… Good thing there was a hoover was to hand! And yes, you can suck up a Huntsman (big squat hairy spider, Aussie version of a tarantula) using your standard vacuum cleaner.

It was supposed to be spring out there but you could have fooled me with the amount of rain we had – still got to see quite a few awesome electrical storms which raged on for hours. When I arrived the Jacaranda were in full flower. They are gorgeous! The trees were bare apart from the purple/blue blossom so it seemed as if the sky has fallen on top of them or they were holding up the heavens. This description isn’t doing them any justice but perhaps you get the picture. They are so exotic and pretty – clumps of soothing purple dotted between houses, buildings, beaches and around the harbour. If I lived somewhere hot, then I’d have to have one near me…

5 kilos and counting...

2005-11-02T09:49:00.000Z

The one vegetable that gets ignored throughout the year is the one plant that yields a crop of over 5 kilos this season!!! I thought that I had yanked them all up last year but obviously missed a few. Friends and family have mainly been eating Jerusalem artichokes this week – lucky things! Must invest in a blender, since you can only eat so many roasted and pan-fried tubers!

Just call me a domestic goddess!

2005-11-02T09:48:00.000Z

Coz that’s what I feel like! Pulled up all the J. artichokes over the weekend which was a battle. There are still some tubers lurking under the roses that I couldn’t reach, but at least they have been cleared away. Planted out as many of bulbs as I could before the rains started. And to top it all off completed my first batch of chutney for the season. Nigella, move over honey!

Supper time

2005-10-26T13:00:00.000Z

Ah, I’ve been waiting for this moment for most of the summer. The time when I can pull up, rinse and bung the Jerusalem artichokes in a roasting dish – with olive oil, butter, lemon, thyme and bay and of course plenty of ground pepper. Heaven!

Bulbs away!

2005-10-26T12:44:00.000Z

Got loads of bulbs to get in the ground this weekend. There are Debs’s daffs, crocuses from Suzy & Chris’s wedding, the peenine (sp?) roses given by mom and the zillion bluebells that were inadvertently uprooted during the year. I can’t wait to plant them but experiencing my usual dilemma of where? They are probably going to end up in a bare patch, by the patio doors. That way I can admire them from the comfort of the bean-bag once spring makes an appearance.

Take a break

2005-10-25T07:43:00.000Z

Not been around much for the last couple of months. There was an interesting trip to South Africa with work and then weekends away in Cambridge and Brussels. Just getting back into the usual routine and thus turning my attention, belatedly, to the garden. To tell you the truth this seems to happen most years. You’re all fired up at the beginning of the year hungry for new experiences and delights, but the enthusiasm seems to fizzle out by the end of summer. Take a break for a while, let the batteries recharge, energy is re-ignited and you're off again. Not too bothered since the garden is a picture in spring with vibrant colour exploding in March/April petering slowly out once you reach August… along with the interest – hmm, there might be a correlation here…

Border control

2005-10-25T07:36:00.000Z

Finally got round to clearing out the mint that was smothering one of the borders in the front. Admittedly it looks a little neater, but only a little! I haven’t bothered to repot a cutting since I’m pretty confident in my inability to catch all the root systems. One is bound to make a bid for freedom next year. Although there was plenty of mint for salads and bevies, in hindsight, a border of mint was a bit excessive! However I’m gonna miss the delicious, fragrant freshness every time you approached the front door.

Five reasons to pick up fallen apples

2005-10-24T15:09:00.000Z

Fallen fruit weld themselves to the path attracting all sorts of sliminess.
Decomposing apples start to smell particularly fruity…
Foxes start hanging out – brazenly lounging about on the garage roof, bringing all sorts of ickiness with them.
When coming back home in the dark it’s hard to miss the fruit welded to the path thus ruining new boots.
It looks like you’ve given up on the garden – whilst in reality you’ve just been a little preoccupied.

Great, more ants

2005-08-22T14:48:00.000Z

I’m not a fan of ants. Especially when you’re weeding a border and they erupt en mass, swarming about, getting everywhere. It freaks me out when the soil becomes this moving entity generally heading in my direction. Then yesterday whilst chopping some brambles into more manageable pieces I came across a red ants nest in the middle of the grassy area – which I can’t bring myself to call a lawn. They were tiny and moving grubs from one, of the many, bare patches... Just the colour brings back painful memories of being bitten on holiday – the bites are like paper cuts, small and irritating. Now there are two sets to contend with – fabulous!

Flopping tomatoes

2005-08-16T12:54:00.000Z

This is what happens when you forget to stake the tomatoes when you plant them and then keep putting off the support they need until it’s too late. Instead of columns, there are sprawling rows – I had mentioned that the garden has been a little neglected recently… Compared with last year there don’t seem to be as many tomatoes. This is only my second year growing them so I’m putting it down to the weather and not my horticultural skills!

Summer stimulation

2005-08-09T12:34:00.000Z

It’s been a difficult last couple of weeks with the usual routine all over the place and as a result something has had to give...unfortunately that’s been the garden. I’ve probably been the only person glad to see the rain, since there’s been no time to dedicate to watering. As a result the tomatoes and bean ain’t looking half as bad as they could, although the honeysuckle, given as a pressie from mom, is looking pretty forlorn… still need to find a home for it. Hopefully this weekend there’ll be a chance to get outside, forget any troubles and simply enjoy the summer sights, sounds and smells.

The plant sitter

2005-08-08T15:15:00.000Z

Not surprisingly, since its summer, I’ve acquired plants from my sister and a friend whilst they are away on holiday. There's Vicki’s olive tree which we gave to her as a leaving pressie when she started a new job and my sister, Dee, managed to persuade me to take her sweet peas, sunflowers and tomatoes, so my little patio is chocker with pots. Everytime I walk past them I have to remind myself that they aren’t mine. Would love to stick Dee’s sunflowers in the ground – my ground – oh, the temptation. Maybe I should have mention my rates: one sunflower per every ten pots… Sounds quite reasonable to me!

Mojito anyone?

2005-07-12T12:12:00.000Z

Last year Niall, Shane and I went mojito crazy guzzling the refreshing beverage by the pint. The consumption rate was so high that we ran out of one ingredient (and there aren’t that many) – mint. This year there was no way I was going to buy mint so ignoring all advice I planted out the mint in a border. It had previously been planted out in pots to curb its invasive tendencies. In just one year it’s taken over all whole border, edging out the Sweet William. For some reason we haven’t been so mojito crazy and so I now have a garden of mint! Better get drinking...

For a perfect mojito you have to journey to Spain (or Mexico according to Chio) but we’ve been savouring the delights of the following:
Crush ice and place in a tumbler
Gently mix 2–4 springs of mint and sugar (we use brown sugar)
Add the juice of 1 lime
Add a generous slug of rum (not Barcardi)
Shake ingredients well, pour over the crushed ice, stir gently and enjoy!!

Overcrowding

2005-07-11T13:50:00.000Z

And I don’t mean our stressed public transport system although it could do with some additional resources especially on the 200 route into Wimbledon! No, overcrowding might be the reason why the hollyhocks succumb to rust last year. Finally got to catch an episode of Gardener’s World and, although Monty was referring to roses, I guess rust and the conditions for its development could be transposed to other plants. Damp, poor ventilation and overcrowding is the necessary environment for rust growth. Since removing most of the hollyhocks those left behind are healthier with less rust than last year. Clearing out the older plants has provided the seeds with the opportunity to germinate, so I’ve been gingerly removing the seedlings, which isn’t as easy as it sounds since they have a delicate and long tap root. A good exercise in patience and dexterity. And plenty of pressies to give to friends and family!

It's a miracle

2005-07-11T13:48:00.000Z

This is the first year that the purple-leaved sage has flowered, okay, there are only five specks of blue but it’s a start! The flowers aren’t as big or as bright as the green-leaved sage. I cut it back hard at the beginning of the spring, to give the other herbs at the front of the border some room, which perhaps was just the stimulus it needed? Well, something seemed to work. We’ve had this sage plant since we used to live in Hackney, and that’s going back five years. It’s a lot bigger now but just assumed it wasn’t a flowering variety. Oh, it’s lovely to be wrong!

Sounds from London

2005-07-08T14:34:00.000Z

Working from home today – only to relieve the burden on the public transport system. The patio door is open to maintain a link to the garden and city. A robin is singing oblivious to the chaos that brought London to a standstill. Sirens are wailing away in the distance similar to the sounds of West London, yesterday morning. Our office is close to all the emergency services; with stations and the hospital with walking distance. For most of the morning the air was full of noise with the emergency services racing against time. Life continues regardless of the disruption and sorrow that has been forced on the capital. Today the church bells chime down the road, our neighbour’s grandson, a toddler, chats to himself, bees buzz about the flowers – reassuring signs of normality.

Questions, questions, questions

2005-07-07T07:42:00.000Z

The rocket has withered down to hard brittle stalks with wizened seed heads still intact. Does any one know how to collect the seeds? Do you remove the seeds and dry them out on some newspaper/tissue paper/something equivalent until they are dark and hard? I collected some soft brown seeds, from the still green seed heads, but they’ve gone mouldy. Hmm, I think I’m doing something wrong!

I’m also not sure how to collect Oriental poppy seeds either. The seeds from the seed head don’t look (or feel) ready since they are still on the soft side. Do you collect the seeds later in the year – end of summer? And should the seeds be hard when you cut the seed head? Are the seed heads left on the stalk/plant or hung upside down somewhere?

End of season clear out

2005-07-07T07:34:00.000Z

The bees were in heaven over May/June as the sage and foxgloves were both in full bloom. The constant humming made the border sound as if it was alive! (No bolt of lightening or charge of electricity necessary – been watching too many vampire/Frankenstein movies.) But all good things come to an end. The sage was looking a little scruffy, so it was time for a clear out, since it ran riot over spring smothering the primroses and Lady’s Mantle towards the front of the border.

Relocation, relocation

2005-07-06T13:32:00.000Z

Have I mentioned before that there’s a large lemon balm shrub in the back? During our first year here I grew lots of herbs from seed – to keep the costs down – and this was one of the survivors. My first year gardening was a steep learning curve since I knew next to nothing. Anything that made it through 2001 is obviously a resilient, despite my best efforts. Yes, the mortality rate during that year was particularly high!

One balm is enough and since the seedlings like the back so much I’m hoping that they will take to the front too. May be there won’t be as much cat/fox (not sure which) poo left as nasty smelling presents. There’s nothing worse then weeding/working a border and coming across an unwanted, sticky, yicky, mass! Yuck! Sorry, wandering off the point (as usual). The plan is that the balm will also fill the gaps between the really slow growing box – so there might be a hedge by 2020!

Off with their heads!

2005-07-06T13:28:00.000Z

Although it’s been quiet on the blog front there has still been activity (albeit not much!) behind the scenes in SW19. Work commitments have interrupted time in the garden (and at yoga) – ah, everything has suffered. But June is now out of the way and there’s no more traveling, for work, until September that is!

Towards the end of last month Niall and I were out chopping the heads of the Jerusalem artichoke. After an inspection this weekend they appear to be fine with plenty of new side growth. (I think they could be termed very healthy, short, specimens!) Already on the look out for some more Jerusalem artichoke recipes!!

Kew - inspirational!

2005-06-09T15:14:00.000Z

Yes, we were at Kew last weekend this was my first visit this year and, as usual, it didn’t disappoint! We timed the day very well. Just as we were enjoying cake and tea from the cafeteria (ah, you can’t appreciate Kew on an empty stomach!) we were approached by Bill enquiring whether we would like to join him for a guided tour around the grounds – whilst taking in the Dale Chihuly exhibition currently on show. Would we mind? No, not at all Bill! Over our two hour tour we learnt a lot about Bill and the Royal Botanic Gardens…

In true Irish style Bill regaled us with stories from his life and the Gardens. It was a privilege to have had such an enthusiastic guide, so passionate about the work Kew is involved in. We learnt about the academic, investigative and conservation work that Kew is committed to. The history of the Gardens is pretty interesting too! For instance the Princess of Wales conservatory is not named after Princess Diana but, Augusta, Princess of Wales who establish a Botanical Garden on a 9 acre plot back in 1751.

I highly recommend a trip to west London for a lovely day out… and see if you can catch Bill!

Garden giants

2005-06-04T07:42:00.000Z

Niall and I feasted on Jerusalem artichoke at the end of last year. Relieved to be able to pull up all the twisted, mangled stalks that we had been threatening to remove every week since mid summer! The tubers were delicious, if a bit knobbly! I thought that I had dug them all up for the dinner table. But no, they are back again and have multipled? After consulting with Niall’s sister, Sinead – who originally provided the artichokes, they will be receiving a trim once 1m in height instead of turning into towers that keel over at the first strong wind. Better get my secateurs out soon. I guess this means Jerusalem artichoke is back on the menu!

The other giant in the garden is the aptly named giant hollyhock… this perennial has the ability to reach the stratosphere! I (reluctantly) removed all the established plants we had by the apple tree earlier this year as they were covered in rust. Again, it appears that I didn’t catch all of them… there are two plants starting their bid for vertical dominance. I’ve continued removing all leaves showing the unmistakable signs of rust just in case it starts to spread.

My foxgloves have been basking in their glory for the last couple of weeks, columns of pink and white attracting plenty of attention from the bees and me! I can’t help to stop and admire their tubular flowers and mottled colouring. Then invariably a bee appears and I’m detained even longer. What a great distraction!

Our amphibian resident

2005-06-03T11:26:00.000Z

Hey our toad is back, that or it’s his offspring… He (I tend to think of the toad as a ‘he’) appears from the lemon balm which, I guess, offers a roomy, and fragrant, abode. It helps when the lemon balm is adjacent to one of Burt’s piles of stuff which houses zillions of gastropods the toad’s favourite snack!

Niall enjoys stomping on the snails (slugs are a little bit more difficult to squish) along the path, for the toad to munch on. Well it’s either the toad or slugs chomping away. I don’t mind which, because even if it’s the slugs they are then leaving my plants alone!

Purchases from SW3

2005-06-01T10:42:00.000Z

After our exhausting circuit of the GP Dee and I decided to find our wallets and switch from observer to consumer. We already had an idea of what we were after. I thought it best only to buy plants that I had already grown from seed… We loved the aquilegia display by ‘Three Counties Nurseries’ and the seeds that I bought are Mixed Barlow – the smaller variety. They are gorgeous! I have some cultivated varieties in the garden that are big and blousy but I fancied something a little more delicate.

Ah the foxgloves on ‘The Botanic Nursery’ stand were magnificent towers full of flowers. The colours ranged from deep pink to white to an almost creamy green. I decided on the Digitalis pur. ‘Pam’s Choice’ which will be white flowers with dark throats growing to 30cm (hopefully!). We also picked up some more foxglove seeds from the ‘The Royal College of Pathologists’ in the Lifelong Learning in the Garden section. That was a really interesting and informative stand providing examples of where plant extracts are used in a clinical setting. From the Sunflower Street Gardens we picked up some sunflower seeds (of course!).

Unfortunately I can’t remember where we found the poppy seeds but looking forward to seeing them in the ground. There was a lone poppy the first year we moved in, under the apple tree, and I haven’t seen one since! So I’ve plenty to keep me out of trouble (and the shops!)!

A day out in SW3…

2005-06-01T10:35:00.000Z

Yes, you guess it I was at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show on Friday and it was AWESOME!! A visual, sensory and information overload! By the time I got home I was exhausted – managed to grunt hello to Niall and just hit the sack!

This was my first ever flower show and I had no idea what to expect. To tell you the truth I was little bit nervous… Is everyone who attends these events an expert in their field? Have they been gardening for years? As you know, I’m just an enthusiastic (weekend) gardener, passionate about plants but not necessarily too hot on design – just see my patch of green!

We managed to acquire tickets for the day so off the Thiruchelvam / Gorman posse went, armed with sandwiches, water and sensible footwear to keep the spirits high! Margaret took command and decided upon on arrival that heading into the Great Pavilion (GP) would shelter us from the ready hot late morning sun. The GP (see I’ve got the lingo already!) was rammed… After completing a circuit of the perimeter we decide to stop for lunch and headed outside to listen to a jazz band and enjoy the hotter afternoon sun. Another two hours later we had covered all angles of the GP and were ready to meet my youngest sister, Shar, who had a ticket from 3pm. By this point my feet were already aching and I was beginning to flag.

But with an extra body full of enthusiasm mum, Margaret, Dee, Shar and myself set off to see the show gardens. Did I mention that it was rammed before? It was heaving by 5pm! The gardens were lovely it was just a shame that you couldn’t walk through them and feel the textures of the planting – oh I understand why the organizers/designers wouldn't want that. But gardens aren’t just visual entities; you stick you nose in the roses and Sweet Williams; you rub the herbs for their smell; you touch the flowers for their softness; you stand or sit in a garden allowing the senses to absorb the ambience…

Having said that, the day out in SW3 was fantastic. So much inspiration, food for thought, practical advice and just the joy of seeing good quality plants. I bought some seeds – don’t worry you’ll be hearing a lot more about them!

Shoe fetish?

2005-05-19T12:11:00.000Z

The mangy foxes in our area are pretty cocky, they roam around the neighbourhood at all hours, scavenge the bins, ripping the bags and distributing rubbish, and they poo (not sure if I can write shit?) all over the place – argh, it reeks! But the following incident tops them all… Niall and I had just got back from work and as usual left the patio door open to ventilate the back room since it catches the sun in the afternoon. We were in the kitchen and heard a sound from the next room. Niall goes to investigate and sees a fox with one of his ‘Prestige’ trainers in its jaws heading down the garden and one of Ben’s trainers lying across the lawn! Out goes Niall, to the rescue, chasing the fox which thankfully drops the trainer. (There would have been hell to pay if Niall hadn’t recovered his ‘Prestige’ trainer – he’s very proud of his ex-communist Czech Republic purchase.) We think the drama is all over when a few minutes later the fox is back again trying to liberate another trainer – any trainer, that is, except mine which were next to the patio door. Do my trainers pong that much? Nah, they just don’t pong enough – that’s what it is! Keeping an eye out for any dodgy looking foxes loitering in our street and I won’t be throwing trainers at them – that’s for sure!! This does explain the leather slipper left in the back garden a couple of weeks ago though…

Water shortage?

2005-05-18T12:44:00.000Z

Since March I haven’t heard anything further that would suggest that we will be facing a hose pipe ban. We were given the warning that it had been a dry winter and then it went quiet. After checking the Environment Agency website it seems that there has been below average rainfall affecting groundwater although reservoirs are stable. We’ve had our water butt for a month now, and during this period I thought that we had received quite a bit of rain (especially during April). So I was a little surprised when we ran out on Saturday! I’ve been using the water for pot-bound plants and seedlings – watering whenever I’ve noticed the compost looking a little dry – but nothing more than that.

I guess this demonstrates that ordering the second butt as a back-up wasn’t such a bad idea after all… That’s Niall with his Piscean instinct! He’s cleverly devised a way in which the second water butt can act as an overflow. It seems that we need to collect all the rainwater we can to see us through the summer. In theory droughts will be a distant memory, and our patch will remain forever green!

Girl Friday

2005-05-18T12:06:00.000Z

YES!! After weeks of relative inactivity going to have this Friday off and spend the whole day in the garden! Got plenty of jobs to be getting on with:

clearing away the grassy section in one of the front borders
planting out the box, peas, French beans and Runner beans
repotting the sunflower seedlings and staking them
feeding the hedges in the front garden and the roses in the back
cutting back the rocket, lemon balm and geraniums
trimming the rosemary, cotton lavender and lavender

All this along with your general maintenance... roll on Friday, I’m a-ready!!

Get Well Soon Burt

2005-05-17T14:07:00.000Z

Found out this weekend that our neighbour, Burt, is in hospital. Now we have come to appreciate Burt as the fount of all knowledge relating to Colliers Wood (our hood!). He has been invaluable for news, updates, gossip and history. Initially we were a little wary of this unsolicited information but since Burt is alone (and Robbie his beloved terrier passed away last year) we’ve got a lot of time for him.

We have, in the past, offered to mow his lawn and cut back his vine and fruit trees but he enjoys these jobs himself. Unfortunately since his departure weeds have grasped the opportunity to run rampant. They cover both his borders and are choking his lawn. I’d really like to help him out but think that we should ask first. He's been looking after his patch of green since the 1940s and probably wouldn’t appreciate our ‘interference’!

Of course weeds know no boundaries and have been colonizing areas set aside for me flowers and veg (if I ever get them outside!). Oh, get well soon Burt, we’re missing your chats and just having you pottering about!!

Fig-ilious – yummy

2005-05-12T12:04:00.000Z

As my other half, Niall, will readily testify to patience is not one of my virtues. So I’m chuffed that my fig (nicked named Bob – don’t laugh! Bob was actually christened Ben, but then Ben moved in and to avoid confusion Ben became Bob!) has grown sufficiently over the last two years that he is ready (and more able) to fruit. We were given Bob as a present from a friend of ours, Nima, and he advised us not to let Bob fruit until a bit bigger in size.

Bob has grown and been trying to fruit every summer. Resisting temptation I’ve removed the little fig buds as they have developed leaving the smooth branches and big pale green leaves. Earlier this year Bob was repotted into a beautiful blue container and reluctantly given a short back and sides. Again on Nima’s advice I’ve placed the four branches that were removed into water; hoping for some root action.

It seems that Bob like the new home and appreciates the trim since there are two fig buds protruding from the side branches. Given Bob’s size I think that two maturing figs are enough. Apparently it takes two years for a fig to develop – blimey, that’s really going to be a test for my patience!!

Wedding Plans!

2005-05-12T10:40:00.000Z

No, not mine!

Hooray!! Two good friends are getting hitched, one this September and other one in August next year. Can’t wait!! Plus, get to contribute to the flowers for both – but in different capacities. Suzy has asked if I can help her with the decision of which flowers to go for – this process is complicated by the fact that the wedding will be occurring in Brussels! And I offered to help Karen with the flowers for her wedding in August and so have a project for this year: going to see what flowers I can maintain over the summer months so that I can give Karen an indication of what can be provided.

Both Suzy and Karen are considering seasonal flowers and have stated that they prefer the natural look rather than bouquets of the same flower artistically arranged. That gets my vote… Was thinking of Sweet Williams, Red Sunflowers, Dahlias, Roses and anything else that might be flowering at the time for Karen. Just perfect for Karen! Suzy’s after more foliage in the scheme and we’ve discussed using herbs for greenery, structure and scent. As to the colour – well anything orange, red and yellow! Very Suzy!

I think that 2006 will be the year of the flower!

Yoga and/or gardening?

2005-05-06T12:47:00.000Z

The squirrels have been busy over winter since I’ve pulled up three horse chestnut saplings, the strangest place was from behind a pile of wood against the garage at the back gate... They don’t waste any time getting started in life at about 30 cm high it’s still a battle to yank them out – and no, it’s nothing to do with my abilities since the Chaturanga Dandasana (Staff pose), Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Dog), Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (Upward Dog) my yoga instructor has been torturing (oh, that should be teaching) us has improved the upper body strength no end!!

Of course it doesn’t help that our yoga instructor has decided to ‘time’ our core activities during the Saturday morning two hour class so that instead of relaxing into each posture you are straining to maintain Bhujangasana (Cobra) for two minutes, Salamba Sirsasana (Headstand) for ten minutes and perform the Virabhadrasana (Warrior) cycle as a continuous flow. Muscles ache at the end of each session and there’s just no energy left for the rest of the day. That limits gardening pursuits over the weekend to one day… Still it gives you the perfect excuse to just hang out and relax!!

Timber!!

2005-05-05T08:55:00.000Z

It was early one Saturday morning, in February, someone was out with an electric saw. Given the time of day it sounded pretty loud – someone was definitely eager to get a head start. The racket woke our guests and as we were all discussing the noise in the kitchen we discovered the source. There were three tree surgeons hanging from the conifer at the end of our lane. Then I noticed that the tree was half it’s usual size – boy, these guys don’t waste any time… and within 30 minutes there was nothing left.

You could understand why the owner would want to remove the tree since it towered above the houses in the area and they obviously received little, or no, light in the mornings. But on the other hand, it was home to many nesting birds and (more importantly!) hid the Ministry of Death (aka an extremely ugly eyesore – what were the town planners thinking of in the 60s?).

It’s only with the lengthening days that I’ve really begun to appreciate what a difference the tree, acting as a screen, made. So although I was initially unhappy with its removal, there are some benefits. But if any one attempts to touch the horse chestnut at the end of our road they will have very strong resistance from this household!!

Happy Anniversary!

2005-05-03T12:33:00.000Z

Would you believe that it was about this time, four years ago, that we moved into our house with so much excitement and disbelief? Wow, our house? Pinch me someone!! I'll never forget moving-in over the May Bank holiday weekend; the sun was beaming down and there were the irises pulling out the stops with a glorious bloom – they were the only permanent residents in the garden along with the apple tree, woody rose bushes and one huge shrub.

The garden hasn’t changed a lot since 2001, there have been plenty of new arrivals but the old-timers are still going strong. At the moment the irises are flowering just above the bluebells so the borders are awash with shades of blue. Irises surprise me; they loiter at the back of the bed looking slightly tatty for most of the year but come April they smarten themselves up and then produce their lovely soft flowers. Our roses are currently covered in foliage – a definite improvement from the skeletons when we first arrived. The apple tree is in full blossom, covering the garden in confetti. Oh, and the huge shrub is now a massive shrub!!

Germination - the story continues

2005-04-27T12:06:00.000Z

There are those that made it, those that faded away and those that just never really got started. The parsley and basil are our successes, and now beginning life outdoors, braving this unpredictable weather. The tomatoes and chillis have moved to the porch, to acclimatize for independence outside. And then there’s the lettuce and spinach, thin strips of pale green that seemed to hit an invisible ceiling and then keel over and shrivel up… Exactly the same scenario as last year! Maybe I’m destined never to have salad apart from the rocket which is thriving. Not that I really mind since it’s quite peppery, and I just LOVE pepper!

Perhaps there wasn’t enough air circulating in the house which would affect the rate of evaporation, moisture content and strength of the seedlings… this had never crossed my mind… of course, it makes sense! Outside there’s bound to be a breeze or some wind or rain forcing the seedlings to stand up for themselves. So I’ve started fanning my seedlings – feeling little a self conscious doing this in the porch for the whole world to see! Yes, they have the star treatment: water to prevent dehydration, a balanced diet from their compost, sunshine (April showers permitting), warmth and exercise! Hey, what more do you need?!

Creepy crawlies

2005-04-21T12:16:00.000Z

It certainly was the day for it on Sunday! Started planting out the sweet peas in the front and although the ground was slightly cold and wet it was still teeming with life. With every hole dug some bug was disturbed. There were quite a few millipedes, earthworms (in abundance), the ubiquitous woodlice, spiders or various shapes, size and colour, beetles and lots of unwanted slugs and snails.

Insect life didn’t stop with the earth, no, they were airborne too! Apart from spotting our first butterfly (a cabbage white flitting across the front garden) there were plenty of hoverflies and bees. The bees have been present throughout the winter (the temptation of the flowering honeysuckle shrub was obviously too much) but was relieved to see the hoverflies back since there are aphids on the tulips. There I was worrying about the roses when I should have been looking lower down!

Of course these creepy crawlies are all welcome since they are a tasty treat for the next step up in the food chain. Hopefully the avian and amphibian communities and stop in at Chez Asha for a bite to eat!

Shimmering blue sky

2005-04-19T12:12:00.000Z

Couldn’t just lie in bed on Sunday with the birds chatting away and the sun warming the room! There are sweet peas waiting to be transplanted, seeds to be sown, dahlias to be repotted (still relishing the fact that they have survived the winter!), a water butt to be fitted and countless other jobs.

The day was bright and light, the shimmering blue sky a fabulous back drop for the emerging bright pink apple blossom, the rich red growth of the roses and the flowering rocket (gracefully towering over everything). Colours seem richer with the deep pink quince drawing you in, and the soil smells warm and inviting (if still a little clammy)… all the necessary ingredients to get you in the mood for some garden action!

Seeds, glorious seeds!

2005-04-16T07:56:00.000Z

Some how they've been accumulating from various sources, and really should be sown before they lose viability. In the box of delights there are: Limnanthes (scrambled eggs - couldn't find any poached); Floss Flowers (Blue mink which have already started germinating - ay!); sunflower and sweet pea (harvested directly from the garden!); Forget-Me-Not and Godetia (courtesy of Alan Titchmarsh and the folks at Shredded Wheat); Dahlia, Bellis Perennis and Aster. The vegetable/herb contingent consisted of various: French Bean; Parsley; Lemon Balm; Basil (hoping to make some pesto this year); Carrots; Onion; Coriander; Rocket; Chives; Sugar Snaps, Peas, Runner Beans and Climbing French Beans from Al (anythingbutsprouts.blogspot.com). Hmm, it might be a little late for some of the veggies but have got Al’s lot on the go this weekend.

I just love delving into the seed box routing around rediscovering forgotten gems! Gives you something to look forward to and plan... must confess to enjoying the whole researching, organising and implementing... control freak? Never!!

Weeds #1: ground elder

2005-04-15T12:41:00.000Z

I take back everything said about keeping some weeds!

Ground elder, argh, it’s everywhere! At first it was restricted to a relatively neglected part of the garden but it seems that world (okay, garden) domination is the goal. It’s now turned up in my favourite/prized bed. Once established it’s tricky to remove due to a tenacious root system that resembles spaghetti junction. They seem to run for miles! Have to admit that it’s immeasurably satisfying pulling up them up but once you think you’ve caught them all you come across another set crisscrossing in every direction and at every depth – where do they end, do they ever end… Leave just one bit in the ground and it will come back to haunt you. It’s the only persistent weed in the garden I haven’t been able to control. It’s just a pain…

Do I start pulling it up, chasing root systems even if this disturbs the surrounding plants? Not something that I’d like to start now that they are just waking up and shooting back to life… What are you supposed to do?

Crystal ball reading

2005-04-13T11:00:00.000Z

Yes, our water butt has arrived! We’d been talking them for ages, and as we want to be more sustainable this is step in the right direction. Friends told us about the scheme with Thames Water and obviously we jumped on the band wagon signing up for the butt, stand and tap. Well, if you’re going to do it at all you might as well go the whole hog! Didn’t actually realize how large it was – it’s massive!! We’ve been discussing where in the back garden it could go without taking up already limited space. Guttering and down pipes determining the final decision!

Really looking forward to using the butt since we’re definitely going to have a hot dry summer this year – yup been gazing into the crystal ball recently… Ah, no more trips to the kitchen, no more spillage in the house, no more dousing the plants in cold water, no more tap water (don’t mind our tap water for drinking but have always been uneasy using it for watering).

Roll on the hot, dry summer – we’re ready!

Going, going, gone!

2005-04-12T12:57:00.000Z

Wow, it didn’t take the starlings long to devour the coconut feeder on the apple tree! Just a couple of days!! They’re not so partial to the feeder containing peanuts, thankfully the blue tits and sparrows aren’t as fussy.

It was great seeing the birds muscle their way in for the food. The pecking order is marsh tit, sparrow, blue tit and starling. Anything larger didn’t really get a look in. Its been highly entertaining watching the pigeon trying to get some of the action. Every time they have perched near the feeder the branches just bend down and away from the food… As the branches start curving they waver trying to retain their balance, but the momentum downwards is too great, and yes they are forced away deprived of a morsel. However they’ve noticed the fallen nuts and have been hoovering them up, so everyone’s a winner!

Fingers crossed the squirrels remain unaware of the feeders. After speaking with friends whose feeders have been pillaged or physically removed, it is one experience that I’d rather avoid…

Who needs a grassy lawn anyway?

2005-04-03T10:00:00.000Z

Um, our lawn doesn't really fit the description of a bright green, grassy area - it's more like mossville. Hence my intention to give it some much needed TLC. But during this week I've noticed that the blackbirds, robins and blue tits are quite partial to the moss - I guess nesting material is a priority at the mo. So going to wait a while before tackling the 'lawn'. I shouldn't really be doing this at all...

When we moved in the other half and I agreed that I would maintain the beds and borders and he would concentrate on the lawn - we had a bright green grassy area when we moved in. However years of neglect have reduced the patch to springy moss and persistent weeds. Mowing, it seems, just isn't enough.

I've debated pulling everything up and laying some turf down, but will try the old fashion approach first. I'm probably going to regret this decision once my back, shoulders and hands start to ache!! And for once it won't be due to yoga!

Decisions, decisions, decisions

2005-04-02T08:21:00.000Z

Yes, the weekend is finally here so that I can get the new additions into the ground. Luckily the weather has improved so today, Saturday, is sunny with bright blue skies. Although I've got a rough idea of where everything will eventually find its home, still got to try all possibilities! Since we spend more time in the back garden it tends to get more attention so you want your favourites out there. And here's my dilemma, we got some lovely Sempervivum (houseleeks, which I strangely find irresistable!) and they like dry, sunny spots. Do you plant them out in the front? This would be the most appropriate place for them, but where you won't really get to enjoy them. Or do you plant them in the back garden where you can see them struggle with the wetter, richer conditions? Looks like a decision has been made - the front garden it is. Just have to decide where in the front they should go?!?

Trim that bush!

2005-04-01T16:54:00.000Z

Now, I like weeding for the simple satisfaction of a tidy area but don’t particularly enjoy the task (the old back, hips and knees tend to complain). I also enjoy sowing, particularly when rewarded with seedlings that make it through to maturity – slugs and snails permitting. But pruning is another matter…

It’s a joy when you know what you’re doing and not really concerned about the results, but for some reason I can’t cut back our roses in the same way as the buddleja, lavender and privet that have all had a good trim recently. So what’s with the procrastination? Maybe it’s because I’ve cut the roses before and they sulked all year long producing no leaves and only a few flowers. Now these roses (according to my immediate neighbour, Burt, who is a fountain of knowledge) have been around for at least 15 years and are pretty established old varieties. The flowers create the most amazing scent – so fragrant, and utterly sniffable! At the beginning of this year, ready with the secateurs, it was bring on some rose pruning! But a combination of bad weather and an inability to cut, now that there is actually some foliage, is ruining the good intentions! Going to bite the bullet this weekend … not going to get another opportunity; the time is right, just do it!

And we have germination!

2005-03-30T21:26:00.000Z

Typical, I disappear for a couple of days over Easter and my tomatoes, lettuce and sweet pea decide to make an appearance. Last year was a disaster with all my seedlings dying at about 3 weeks. I couldn’t understand why. They had plenty of water, sunlight, space, fresh compost and were regularly turned, perhaps there was too much water, sunlight, space, fresh compost and turning? So this winter I was very careful to wash all the pots thoroughly so as to reduce any external factors adversely influencing the progress of my seeds. Trying to keep enthusiasm muted as I don’t want to get my hopes up again, but it’s still reassuring to see those delicate slivers of green stretching upwards. Even more exciting to know that some will be eaten and savoured (regardless of taste – because they will be fab!)! So far so good...

Retail therapy

2005-03-30T21:20:00.000Z

I’m always little apprehensive on trips to the garden centre, acutely aware of the gaping holes (chasms) in my knowledge. But armed with my carefully prepared list there will be no tempting this time round. And no, I won’t budge on those 'buy 10 herbs for £10.00' although they do look really good… Be strong, you only have thyme on the list.

It’s amazing (you can tell I don’t get out much) how much variety there is and also the difference in quality from one garden centre to another. As we were browsing mom and I were wondering whether birds do prefer boxes with pointed roofs to sloping or flat ones? Is there a trend sweeping through the avian world where the property of choice features a pointed roof? Having said that I was really taken with the sparrow flats on offer – they were so cute... it’s such a shame that we just don’t have the room!

Managed to acquire most of the items on the list, so really looking forward to this weekend when I’ll have an opportunity to plant out all the new additions. I have to admit that this is my favourite bit of the shopping trip – getting your hands dirty!!

My organized chaos!

2005-03-24T20:04:00.000Z

The whole process of life from seed to shoot to leaves to bud to flower to seed is fascinating. Plants aren’t just inanimate green structures strategically positioned to show off their form and colour! No!?! They are also living, breathing, forces of life – yes my tree-hugger side has (finally) appeared.

In years gone by I have been quite content to have bare patches of ground instead of pesky weeds but perhaps that wasn’t the right approach to take. It’s probably better to have some unwanted plants hanging around and still soaking up all that CO2 rather than leaving the soil bare, ready to be baked by the sun. I don’t think that my (human) neighbours will approve – they probably think the garden’s a mess already! But I like to think of it as an organized chaos… a little bit of wilderness in south west London… great excuse hey?

Fauna friendly

2005-03-23T21:19:00.000Z

Considering my attempt at a more mature approach to the garden this year I’ve compiled a list of seeds, shrubs, climbers, annuals, and those all important miscellaneous items that hopefully will encourage loads of insects, arachnids, mammals and birds into the garden. A friend suggested that we should have a buddleja in our garden to attract butterflies/insects but since it’s usually pretty big and the dimensions of our plot are relatively small it might be not such a good idea. He’s right on all counts – but I already have one!! It's obviously too large for the space but what do I care? As long as the bees and butterflies are happy I can tolerate the inconvenience of large stalks and leaves nicking me and everyone that journeys to the front door!

Six signs of spring...

2005-03-22T21:03:00.000Z

Following the BBC’s spring survey I’ve been on the look out for bumble bees (first sited in mid February due to the flowering honeysuckle shrub which they seem to adore) and ladybirds. We identified a 7 spotted ladybird this weekend – the first time I can remember seeing one so early, well either that or I’m extremely unobservant!! I’m sure that the freakishly warm weather tempted it out for a wander! Of course there’s no chance of seeing frog spawn since we, and our immediate neighbours, lack a pond. During this month the BBC are interested in Peacock butterflies, swifts and hawthorn; so if you’re after more info check out their site (http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/animals/wildbritain/springwatch/record/)

Now this isn’t strictly garden related but I was really excited yesterday as I noticed a bat on my way to yoga. It was circling above the river scooping up midges for what seemed like ages! I was surprised at how small it was with such tiny wings… I knew all those hours watching Batman cartoons and films weren’t wasted!!

A good spring clean...

2005-03-21T21:44:00.000Z

Ah, feeling much better today since I have satisfied my gardening fix this weekend! The sunny weather during the last week has been a complete distraction as I was wishing that was pottering about outside...

Our front garden is the final destination for most of the rubbish in the area (or so it seems) courtesy of the wind. You can find anything from sweet and crisp wrappers to cardboard and plastic packaging to cigarette butts to bottle caps – and I think you get the gist! Psychologically half the battle is the removal of the rubbish and then you can concentrate on the garden stuff – all those weeds!!!!

Finally all the effort over the last couple of years is paying off as I was able to work through the most offending sections in a morning – this is something that was unheard of when we first moved in! The front is now looking more respectable as I have great plans for this plot….

Our new neighbours

2005-03-21T21:20:00.000Z

We were curious when we first moved in whether the bird box above the garage was ever in use and, if so, by whom. Well the following year we were delighted by the arrival of a pair of blue tits. They are great… whizzing about, checking out the hood – I guess on the lookout for more grub (you can never have enough). One of the highlights of the spring is their continuous presence in the garden despite all the cats in the area (don’t get me started)…

Our wary duo are back again this year and I can’t wait for the faint chirping noises as mom and dad become more skittish trying to satisfy everyone’s needs!

Just soaking it all in…

2005-03-10T21:07:00.000Z

It can be really frustrating when the weekend is jam-packed so you miss the opportunity to get outside and do anything. Then I have to remember that the garden isn’t just for ‘doing stuff’ but also for enjoying – be that inside or out. Sometimes it’s just lovely to sit back and absorb the view… Yes the new growth on the roses is impressive – must remember to cut them back in the autumn; What would look good in that space; Okay, tidy up the herb bed as there are probably hundreds of slugs/snails judging from the hundreds of holes in foxgloves!! See, I’m feeling better already, although not actually (well, physically) gardening, it’s never far from my mind. So it’s not really neglected… honest!!!

Spring snow

2005-03-02T21:10:00.000Z

No one could have missed the snow over the last couple of weeks; a rare treat for us, since it doesn't usually settle in the capital. Waking up to find the garden smothered (about 2 inches thick) was a wonderful surprise. We've experienced a smattering of snow before but never to the same extent….

Of course I couldn’t wait to get out there and hear that satisfying crunch underfoot or admire the prints left behind!! I have to admit that the back garden looked as good as ever even though most of the vegetation was hidden (not that I’m biased or anything)!

But on a more serious note I hope that the snow hasn’t caused any damage to the plants, especially those that were trying to provide some colour during winter. And I’m pleased to report that, at least, the crocuses and snowdrops are still standing tall!

Compost to rave about?

2005-03-01T21:39:00.000Z

Finally some compost to rave about! Not a subject that readily springs to mind as stimulating conversation but worthy of a mention … After a year of providing organic and garden waste for the bin we have received soft, crumbly compost (which actually looks like the stuff you buy – bonus!). Of course we can’t take all the credit as our bin is the ever popular hang-out for snails and slugs and other insects. We have been trying to create good compost for a couple of years now, but I think that impatience (me? never!) has only lead to a sludgy, smelly alternative. The excitement of the compost was almost eclipsed by the presence of my other half participating in gardening related activities! Not a usual occurrence believe me!!

The first of many...

2005-02-22T22:12:00.000Z

When moving into our house it wasn't necessarily the space indoors that quickened the pulse but what was available outside. Previous abodes were gardenless so this was a luxury. A front and back garden? After half-hearted attempts I'm preparing to take a serious, more mature, approach to growing some veg and of course herbs... A friend suggested that I should keep a record of my efforts - I hope that this won't be a short-lived experience, and will be the first of many!