Mid Autumn Tasks

It's been a busier month so far than I thought it would be but we are getting on top of our "To Do" list, although, as any gardener will agree, the list is never completely ticked off! It's an ever evolving, changing list of tasks, and trying to get to the bottom of it is like trying to find the end of the rainbow.

Anyways, at least the rain has arrived (of course it had to bring along the wind and gales) and yet the ground is still like concrete six inches under, even after ten days of rain and showers.

In the tunnel, I'm potting on hardy annuals and perennials grown from seed. For the ornamental garden, we have more lupins including the yellow Chandelier and Gallery Yellow together with more of the fabulous The Page. Achillea Cerise Queen are coming on well as are the nepeta grandiflora Border Ballet.

Our bulbs arrived last week which has kept us busy. I always think I've ordered plenty but, in 4 acres, they don't go far. Muscari Peppermint and narcissus Bittern have been planted into pots for spring displays.

The new meadow area in the centre of the main garden is simply an area that was previously mown, with young trees scattered through. Today we cut a path through the middle and planted the following:
100 narcissus Lothario, 100 narcissus Tresamble, 50 narcissus Hawera, 50 narcissus Thalia & 100 snakeshead fritillaries.

The Hawera were intended for the side of the lane but I haven't gotten round to clearing back in order to make room for the bulbs....and, as usual, I've "robbed Peter to pay Paul"

We also added a few more ox eye daisies - about 30 in total now. I can't wait until spring.....I cannot think of a better way of spending your money than on bulbs - they should thrive for many years and delight us each spring!

The orchard last spring.