I can’t really avoid the c word this week. These past few days have gone by in a whirl and we are all coming terms with profound changes to our lives. The discipline of spending a little time to write about the garden is finding a new level of meaning and spring has arrived so it is all the more enjoyable. It it so good to focus on the new life that is appearing and the joy that comes with seeing the perennials push through again. Here are my six delights for this week.
One
There have been some cold nights and cold windy days this week but the sun has some warmth and the garden is responding. I’ve seen the tulips in bud and this week the Thalia opened up. Must have more of them was my response.
Two
I know everyone has done daffs over the last few weeks but I’m going to tip my hat again to Tete a Tete. When I planted this ring of them around the persimmon tree I thought there was a stronger danger of it looking a little twee. Maybe it does but seeing this cheerful ring of them every morning makes my day. I’ve gone for over-egging the pudding and have also planted an inner ring of snowdrops. I can’t wait!
Three
It feels a little early to be cutting back the hydrangeas but the new growth is coming through strongly now. I am going to resist for as long as I can. April can be cruel. The penstemons are also sending out new growth but they aren’t going to tempt into a cut back just yet.
Four
The new growth on the roses has this lovely reddish colour. In admiring this exuberance I also noticed that some tying in was needed, which was duly done. It is at this time of year I realise that I could have been more ruthless with some of the climbing roses. Some people never learn.
Five
More new growth coming from the weigela florida ‘Variegata’. I bought it new for this garden so it is about three years old now. I’m happy to let it have it’s natural height but I think I may need to contain the spread. I’m looking forward to May when it’s pink flowers appear.
Six
I anticipate a sudden influx of bees as the rosemary comes into flower. Yes, indeed gardening and all its side benefits will be keeping my soul healthy this year.
Thanks to The Propagator for his admirable work in keeping Six on Saturday together. I shall be sowing seeds this weekend, definitely some cosmos, perhaps some zinnias and probably some tellima grandiflora and the grass needs cutting. Enjoy your gardening jobs, take time to appreciate what’s growing now and celebrate Springtime, for it is officially here!