An altogether satisfactory day at the Mantle Estate with a plethora of subjects for discussion. Being so spoilt for choice it has been difficult to decide which highlight to share. Should it be: Top tips on getting raspberry jam out of a pale blue linen shirt two minutes before Lord Mantle was due to headContinue reading “Iris ensata ‘Moonlight Waves’”
Category Archives: Uncategorized
Salvia argentea – The Silver Sage
Salvia argentea, the Silver Sage. Do I sound like The News at 10.00? If so it should go something like this: First I will tell what is coming: we will be featuring Salvia argentea, the Silver Sage. Then I will cover the main story of the day which just happens to be Salvia argentea, the SilverContinue reading “Salvia argentea – The Silver Sage”
Taxing
Today I did my tax return. It is not particularly complicated and the on-line submission is relatively straightforward, especially if you are paying attention and not distracted by someone blithering on in the background. The figures involved are rather petty, I am computer literate and love a good spreadsheet, but all the same it tookContinue reading “Taxing”
Nameless
There has been another label malfunction. This little veronica is nameless to all but its close relations. The use of a non-permanent, water-soluble pen when labelling this little beauty was perhaps a mistake. Let us not beat about the bush, it was daft. Of course if I had realised any writing was going to disappearContinue reading “Nameless”
Shade
Dusky aquilegia in the dappled shade. Which was where I was skulking most of the day. Unfortunately this did not involve a hammock, the latest hort-lit blockbuster or even a pint of piña colada. Just spiteful nettles, strings of enchanter’s nightshade and stubborn self-seeded ferns. Well you can’t have everything.
Mad Dogs and Gardeners
Yesterday was tough. I made it til 2.30 and the threw in my trowel. This Catananche caerulea, Cupid’s Dart, was still looking cool, blue and refined in the post 30C temperatures. I, however, was red, blotchy and sweaty. I thought a photo of the flower would be preferable.
Geum ‘Blazing Sunset’
It is hot, but I expect you knew that already. Back to work tomorrow after a long weekend off. Lovely holiday weather, not so good for working. Never mind, I am well prepared with cooling clothes, cover ups, sun screen, hat and water bottle all at the ready. Expect another tale tomorrow night. SomethingContinue reading “Geum ‘Blazing Sunset’”
Fathers Day
My beloved Dad died too long ago to be quite right. It was only this year that I realised that when I say “he died too soon” what I really mean is he died too soon for me. Does that make sense? Do you understand? Over the years I have had so much to tellContinue reading “Fathers Day”
Kalmia latifolia – Mountain Laurel
So much to share, so little time to do it. Kalmia latifolia, mountain laurel, gorgeous.
Fox and Cubs
Again I am falling back on the “pretty picture less words necessary” scenario. This is the flower of Fox and Cubs otherwise known as Orange Hawkweed or, for the botanists and swots, Pilosella aurantiaca. I love foxes and their cubs and I also love this native wildflower. Just in case you were wondering, ‘out of focus’ isContinue reading “Fox and Cubs”
Off The Edge Gardening 