Author Archives: offtheedgegardening

The rain lashed down and Young Mr G battled galantly against fuchsias and hailstones.  So impressed was I by this bravery, I took the tactical decision to leave him to it and undertake some greenhouse work.  Of course this is also very courageous, but in rather more understated way. Mrs G was kindly gifted some assorted herb seed, most probablyContinue reading “Lost in Translation”

It was an indulgent day yesterday.  I reserved a whole day solely for working in my own garden.  An enormous bronze fennel was dug up and the space filled with a Grevillea victoriae that was waiting patiently in the wings.  Both the commonplace and more unusual were sown, unnamed tagetes, Papaver “Patty’s Plum”, Canna braziliensis and Alcea ficifolia.  I potted on anyContinue reading “Gunnera”

This is getting ridiculous.  I will have to speak to the Union.  First there were pygmy goat kids and a Devon Longwool lamb.  Next foil wrapped chocolate eggs in a multitude of colours.  Then sowing seed and potting on and pricking out whilst singing/dancing along to Abba in the greenhouse*. And all that all before lunch.Continue reading “Slog revisited”

Another hard days slog buying plants, eating crisps and admiring a two metre high inflatable Lindt rabbit.

One of the disciplines I try to instil on my clients is the importance of accurate labelling.  Let me give you an example.  The above is a tulip, no need for years of study to work that one out.  But what, however, is the cultivar or species name?  If I don’t know then it will beContinue reading “The Noble Art of Labelling”

You have fair warning, there will be a substantial amount of joy within this blog.  Anyone looking for misery or heartache, turn away now, you are the road to disappointment.  Similarly, if you are likely to be offended by unabashed gloating, please retune your TV. To be greeted by a bouncing Bobbie dog as you arriveContinue reading “Gloating”

We seem to have slipped quite nicely into second gear.  Spring has officially sprung and trundling along in first gear will not be possible any longer.  Soon hyper-drive will kick in and our faces will be doing that attractive g-force thing.  Luckily we have all spent the winter months wisely; preparing, planning, scheduling.  After all it isContinue reading “Second Gear”

Today I have been mostly digging out celandine.  I paused for a moment to admire its pretty green stained flower.  Then I dug out some more.

Generally I avoid prickly plants, call me a wimp if you dare.  But from a safe distance, and with the renewed bravery a little sunshine brings, this coconut scented gorse was a real treat in the spring sunshine at The Farm this week. Heading west for a few days, see you when I return.