Today I was pruning out the demon canker from an old apple tree. This fungal disease is systematically munching through its aged branches. Although disfigured by this nibbling, it is blessed by a natty outfit comprising an assortment of lichen, including this one. North Devon has a lot of lichen. I am definitely not anContinue reading “Octopus Lichen”
Category Archives: Uncategorized
Losing Battle
There is a splendid multi-stemmed myrtle in Max’s garden. Cinnamon peeling limbs, glossy evergreen leaves, heady white blossom and bull’s eye berries; year long it gives joy. It would be perfect, if not for one flaw. Beneath its canopy, and further still, it flings its fruit densely and indiscriminately. These germinate like sturdy cress, pushingContinue reading “Losing Battle”
Month
As I count down the days to my sabbatical month* I find myself feeling a little sad about the things I am going to miss. Like the early morning sun illuminating the dew on a succulent lampranthus. * Actually the last week of December and the whole of January which of course, if we areContinue reading “Month”
Late on Parade
Salvia elegans, otherwise known as Pineapple Sage, is late to the garden parade. Only in the last few weeks has it come into its own. Dithering throughout the summer and early autumn, holding back with dramatic flourish until early winter. Now many of its rivals are long passed, leaving a gap in the market forContinue reading “Late on Parade”
Ice and Fire
The polar caps are receding at a terrifying rate. I think I know where all the ice has gone, my fridge. Today was the day of the big defrost. This needs to be done so we can fit some food into it for the Christmas period. Something has gone amiss. Not only is the freezerContinue reading “Ice and Fire”
Hibernation
I’ve decided to go into hibernation for a little while. I will be in a reconditioned badger sett, lined with cosy blankets and well stocked with good books, fine gin and cheese and onion crisps. No dramas, no problems, no worries. See you soonish! Meanwhile here is the amazing Fuchsia arborescens for your admiration.
Excuses
Taking photos in bad weather is challenging. At the best of times I am an inveterate speedy snapper. My theory is that the more photos taken, the more likely at least one will be in focus. When it is raining this procedure cranks up a gear. I wrestle my camera from beneath layers of waterproofs,Continue reading “Excuses”
Style
I had a little helper in the garden today. Such style. A gal after my own heart.
Babes in the Wood
Unlike most of its compatriots, there is one planter at The Farm that will not be emptied for the winter. This re-purposed concrete water trough contains a couple of Euphorbia x martini ‘Ascot Rainbow’ and a trio of the golden-eyed blue daisy, Felicia amelloides. The euphorbia is tough as old boots and although might look a littleContinue reading “Babes in the Wood”
What Happened Next? – Once More
Well, Weatherpeople, you got that completely wrong didn’t you? No rain, you promised. None. And I foolishly believed you. After yesterday’s wall to wall miserable mizzle, you said that today would be better. That much was true, I suppose. It was better, but by no means best. Weatherwise anyway. The rain started mid morning andContinue reading “What Happened Next? – Once More”
Off The Edge Gardening 