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

Which Rose – Dilemma over!

Years ago, when I first started gardening, I actually avoided roses - the first few I'd planted were almost devoid of flowers and I thought I just didn't have the knack for them. In fact I was quite right - at the time I was under the mistaken apprehension that once a plant was put … Continue reading Which Rose – Dilemma over!

Six on Saturday – Basking in Bark!

With Autumn well and truly over, deciduous trees are almost leafless and the eyes are now drawn to a plethora of fascinating bark. Many trees sit through winter looking distinctly lifeless, but others continue to shine, providing interest in our parks and gardens during the darkest months. These six caught my attention today, both at … Continue reading Six on Saturday – Basking in Bark!

Autumn/Winter Pots

I love putting plants together in pots and Autumn is probably my favourite time for doing so - there's less choice around and so selection is relatively simple. A well designed Autumn pot or basket is really effective positioned to greet you as you come and go, just at the time garden borders are fading … Continue reading Autumn/Winter Pots

Six from a Wet Walsall Arboretum!

Late this wet and windy afternoon and with very little enthusiasm, I ventured out with Ollie for a walk in Walsall Arboretum - and it turned out to be surprisingly pleasant. The wind dropped, the rain stopped and we meandered through the trees and ignored the muddy terrain, sticking mainly to the pathways. The trees … Continue reading Six from a Wet Walsall Arboretum!

Six on Saturday – Macro

It's been a dull but still today and I thought I'd have another attempt at getting some close up photographs with the macro lens Chris bought me for my birthday last year. I say another attempt because I'm finding this lens very challenging, particularly in selecting the area for the main focus point. Out of … Continue reading Six on Saturday – Macro