Since ancient times, humans have sought to capture the fragrance of plants. From Ancient Eyptian ‘Kyphi’ (distilled from juniper berry, iris root and cinnamon bark) to the more familiar lavender fields of Provence, the modern perfume industry has grown into a £30 billion a year market. Clearly there is something about fragrance that we have always known which makes me wonder why it is so often an after-thought in gardens.
Read MoreAt the time of writing I find myself on holiday on the Isle of Wight and against all the odds enjoying a sun soaked week more reminiscent of the South of France. The convoy of porta-loos on the ferry from the mainland speak of the imminent traffic chaos as the island prepares to welcome 75000 festival goers in a weeks time.
Read MoreNow is the best time for a walk in the woods. Woodland plants are making the most of their brief opportunity before the canopy closes and the soft summer blanket of cool shade settles over them. And there is so much more to enjoy than just the bluebells, as if they weren’t reason enough to venture into the shadows. The atmosphere in a wood in spring is pure magic. It is incredibly peaceful and soothing, and has the feel of a private and secret place. The bustle and noise of the world beyond melt away as your body tunes into the soft sounds, cool air and dappled light within.
Read MoreAt the time of writing winter is still calling the shots. The drizzle is falling steadily outside in the garden and the landscape beyond is dominated by dull browns and greys. At this time of year the excitement of the snowdrop season can give way to a lull before the barrage of spring blossom gets under way. The big picture still remains a little bleak. Even the daffodils have proved shy this year, reflected in the rising wholesale prices for these cheerful blooms as the Welsh saint fires a blank at the start of their season.
Read MoreA blanket of snow is not enough to stop the first stirrings of spring down at grass roots level. The thaw at the end of January did its thing overnight and revealed that plenty was going on hidden from view. The snowdrops of course seemed unperturbed and perfectly happy to flower inside their icy cocoon. They made a dramatic entrance overnight nestled amongst half rotted magnolia leaves while the hellebores too were well on their way with fat pink and ruby rich buds being gently hoisted aloft on soft rhubarb-like stems.
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