Plant Profile – Catalpa bignonioides

Catalapa bignonioides, a deciduous tree commonly known as the Indian Bean, will grow happily in any well drained soil in full sun. Growing to a grand height of over 12 metres with an 8 metre spread, this magnificent native of the south eastern US (named after Red Indian) is structurally pleasing and is suitable for … Continue reading Plant Profile – Catalpa bignonioides

Invasive or Invaluable – 10 plants that should come with a warning!

It's true to say that I have to manage an impatient streak in my nature as it sees me adopting a quick impact strategy when planting even after many years of gardening. I am particularly mindful of my very early gardening days and the planting of houttuynia cordata in a long deep border - within … Continue reading Invasive or Invaluable – 10 plants that should come with a warning!

Garden Organic – Growing Naturally

Yesterday saw a group of Garden Media Guild members visiting a garden with purpose. Founded by Lawrence Hills, a tireless promoter of organic gardening, the charity Garden Organic at Ryton in Coventry focuses on education, community health and well being, research and importantly they campaign and lobby where policy threatens the organic principles of: Building … Continue reading Garden Organic – Growing Naturally

Garden Media Guild visit to Southwood Lodge

Last week, having spent a marvellous morning at Mona's Garden in Highgate, London, our group of Garden Media Guild members proceeded to Southwood Lodge, a handsome 18th century house set amidst a most charming garden. The house has previously functioned as a care home and school, but in 1963 it was purchased by an architect … Continue reading Garden Media Guild visit to Southwood Lodge

Garden Media Guild visit to Mona’s Garden

I've enjoyed an extraordinary week, having taken advantage of a fabulous opportunity to visit two gardens in London with the Garden Media Guild. On a glorious sunny day, myself and a group of fellow members (I'm a newbie probationer), accompanied by our tour leader Mike made our first visit to Mona Abboud's award winning Mediterranean/Australasian … Continue reading Garden Media Guild visit to Mona’s Garden