Author Archives: offtheedgegardening

It is not my imagination, there is definitely some plumping up going on in Larchland (the one of undoubted European descent).  Only a faithful follower would notice the subtle swelling of the dormant buds, the aura of awakening.  Only a true devotee would peer so closely, with such optimism and growing impatience.  However, as PhilContinue reading “Tree Following – Plumping Up”

Lucinda and Lionel are not bad people, they have just got in with the wrong crowd.  They are sharing their lives with thugs, delinquents and ne’er-do-wells, a veritable band of rogues.  I can understand the attraction of these villains, they are powerful, persistent and often glamorous, they promise vigour and strength.  They are enchanting andContinue reading “Bad Company”

Today I was mesmerised by the sight of tadpoles, warmed by the spring sun, wiggle their way out of their jelly gaols.  This was their first fight, the struggle to escape their bounds.  There will be many more battles and few will live to maturity.  To watch this spectacle was incredible, a first for meContinue reading “Life”

Essence of daffodil.

It is always heartening to find wildlife in the garden.  It seems like an affirmation, confirming that we are doing something right.  Although I have no documentary evidence, I would guess that wildlife rarely thinks “I love to see a human in my backyard”.  We are generally stomping around like big unfriendly giants with noContinue reading “Peeved”

Not every day is an adventure.  Some days are just fine; not wonderful, not dreadful, but fair to middling.  They are comfortable but not glamorous, like your favourite winceyette pajamas.  They are days to ease through, to gently wallow in.  Today was a day like that.  The sun shone and the sky was blue butContinue reading “Fair to Middling”

Take one pink and frilly rhododendron, early flowering and most welcome, wash down with some gentle spring sunshine.   Before long your step will develop a distinct bounce, the corners of your mouth will unavoidably turn upwards, your heart will lighten and the world will seem a better place.  Repeat whenever possible.

Sometimes very bad things happen to very good people.  In the last few weeks tragedy has visited  two special friends.  More than anything I want to make things right, but I can’t.  I want to extinguish their scalding pain and replace it with the warmth of hope.  I want to mend their crushed hearts andContinue reading “Love and Strength”

Some days a pair of secateurs will not suffice.

This is Menziesia ciliicalyx var. multiflora photographed last May in the wonderful garden at Andrew’s Corner.  I had never heard of it then, I haven’t seen it since.  My job is a continual education and most days I am reminded just how ignorant I am.  I was quite taken with this ericaceous beauty.  The name,Continue reading “A Continual Education”