“What, now!? It’s only just summer,” I hear you cry. But yes, indeed, this is the ideal time to consider how you would like your garden to look next spring. All of the spring bulbs I planted in autumn have now bloomed, and I can see where they worked well, where I had gaps, and what I’d like to change… Read more →
Front Garden Makeover
My front garden is getting a makeover. We’ve done a fair bit to the front garden since moving in, in 2012. I filled the borders with shrubs, perennials and bulbs, and planted a Rowan tree. I planted fragrant climbing roses against the house. We put in cheap and cheerful raised beds so we could grow fruit and veg. It’s the… Read more →
Garden :: Loves and Hates
Last week, I asked my design students at the Norfolk School of Gardening to do a quick homework assignment. They had to send me two images: one image of a garden feature that they love, and one of something they hate. The pictures could be taken from magazines or websites, or taken during their travels in the week. It could… Read more →
Interview with Joyce from Lend and Tend
I was interviewed by the lovely Joyce Veehary of Lend and Tend. There’s a video and a blog post on the Lend and Tend site. I’ve included the video at the end of this post. Joyce started this fantastic project to help people share their gardens with keen gardeners who don’t have their own space. It’s an awesome idea! We… Read more →
How To Make Elderflower Cordial
We made elderflower cordial for the first time last week, and it was so much easier than I expected. It’s an ideal weekend job, and a British summer classic. The fragrant, flowery, lemony flavour is delicious. Here’s how we did it: 1. Collect some flowers Elderflowers can be found everywhere at the moment in hedgerows and on trees. If you’re… Read more →
How To Green-Up Your Driveway
Many front gardens are essentially a driveway, maybe with the odd tree or shrub in a pot, but with little in the way of wildlife-friendly greenery. I totally understand why you might prefer to park your car off the road. What I don’t like is the way these driveways become desolate, lifeless spaces. With bee and wild bird numbers declining,… Read more →
My Garden :: Video Tour
I’ve done a video tour of my back garden to share with you while we’re all stuck at home due to Covid 19. As you’ll see, my garden is far from perfect and in need of lots of tlc. The weather is set to be lovely tomorrow, so I’m looking forward to getting it in better shape in the sunshine.… Read more →
New Stu-stu-studio!!
As a rule, I start to feel gloomy when the clocks go back. This year, I remain chipper because of my fabulous new ’shed’. I finally have a proper design studio*, rather than a weeny desk in the corner of our bedroom. I might just move out there, it’s sooo wonderful. There’s a photo tour below for your delectation! (*Correct pronunciation: “Stu-stu-studio” ala… Read more →
“Hello, Mr Bum Juice!” :: Tales Of A Professional Gardener
I was clearing leaves from a client’s border, ready for bulb planting, when a little blond boy’s head popped over the neighbours’ fence, and he said “Hey!” Me: Hello. Have you had a good morning? Boy: Yes. Me: What are you standing on? Boy: *pause* … uh, a fence. Me: What have you been doing this morning? Boy: Playing with… Read more →
My First Video Post :: Mum’s Garden Tour
I’ve made my first video! I’ve managed to overcome my horror of hearing and seeing myself on a screen – still feeling a bit embarrassed about it. The kids say my voice sounds a bit different in real life. And apologies for the number of times I say “AMAZING” OR “ummm”. This is a quick video tour of my mum’s… Read more →