Summer went past in a flash…it never really got going, here in the UK. We had a few sunny days, but there was no long, warm stretch when the days slip past like beads on a string. The garden suffered, with dips in temperature, some torrential rain, gusting winds and brooding grey skies. But when… Read More »
small garden ideas
Return to RHS Chelsea Flower Show
I always feel as if I’m stepping into another world when I cross the threshold of RHS Chelsea Flower Show, sponsored by The Newt, Somerset. The entrance to the preview day is via the Thames Gate, so I get off the tube at Sloane Square, and walk towards the river. It’s 8.15am and there are… Read More »
Autumn days
The leaves on my little amelanchier tree are showing orange and gold tips. The tubs of cosmos, zinnias and geums are finally running out of steam and the ornamental grasses are gently fading to blonde. I’ve moved the big succulents to the shelter of the greenhouse and brought my citrus trees inside as we prepare… Read More »
Summer’s here
At last the sun is out again and I have been giving the garden a mini makeover to celebrate. As explained in previous posts, we were due to have an extension, which is now not happening this year, and I had cleared out my courtyard garden in readiness. To avoid having a summer with… Read More »
Twists and Turns
I don’t usually post work features here, as they’re usually stored in my portfolio on my website, but I was pleased with this new column for Modern Gardens which features one of my lockdown illustrations. I don’t think I would have had time to work on these paintings, had it not been for the lull… Read More »
A garden oasis
What is your idea of a garden oasis? Mine’s a comfortable corner with a sofa that’s good to sit or lie on, pots of flowers, so I can hear bees buzzing, containers of grasses, which will rustle in the breeze and filter the light, a blanket for chilly evenings, a rug or mat for my… Read More »