How wonderful to see our lupins at Chelsea. Although they weren’t named by the presenters I managed to spot Masterpiece and Polar Princess. Did you see any others?

Fond memories

I have the fondest memories of Chelsea. Four gold medals is an achievement I will forever be proud of. I loved meeting people and talking about our wonderful lupins. But it was a tremendous amount of work. Early starts. Late finishes. Not forgetting the months of preparation. The last one was 2019 below

Lupins in full bloom

The lupins here at the nursery are in full bloom but it is not too late to plant some in your own garden. I recommend Manhattan Lights, Towering Inferno, Rachel de Thame and Salmon Star. They will give you vibrant colour for weeks.

If you don’t know which lupins you want why not let us choose them for you. Order five lupins of our choice. You won’t be disappointed. Lupinus ‘Beefeater’ in this picture

Dry spring

The dry weather has also helped the control of slugs. But watch out for them, especially hiding underneath pots.

We have had a very dry and warm spring. The flowers have loved it. This year’s blossom was the showiest it has ever been and the wisteria displays have been tremendous. I think the lack of frost has helped the displays.

Vibrant borders

The grass in the garden is looking very brown but the borders are vibrant.

I am looking forward to Dieramas making their appearance. I have Guinevere which is white (below left) commonly called angel’s fishing rod. It looks lovely planted next to the rich black/purple Blackbird. They should be out in July. I can’t wait.

Buzzing bees

The geraniums are in full swing. The lilac flowers of Rozanne (right picture above)are abuzz with bees. Ann Folkard is a darker purple and just as pretty.

Clematis doing well

The clematis have done well this year. My clematis armandii Apple Blossom has been glorious. Barbara Harrington will be flowering within the next few weeks. It is a really special clematis. It originated in France around 1900 and has large dark pink flowers with a satin sheen. It is ideal to plant with roses. Clematis is an excellent cover for nesting birds.

The roses have been particularly good this year. I love the scent of the old-fashioned varieties.

Vibrant birdlife

Our visiting birds have arrived. The swifts scream in formation overhead like excited teenagers. House martins are repairing last year’s nests. Swallows are inspecting beams in the barn. My feeders are mobbed with finches and tits. Two male blackbirds have been fighting for territory (and a sole female) for days. The only downside of all this avian activity has been the unwelcome visits of sparrowhawks and kestrels. I hate seeing the little pile of feathers under the bird table. But it is the circle of life. And all birds have to eat.

Plans for the future

I am planning to grow cut flowers here at the nursery. It is a long term project as the border is still to be planted. There’s lots to do and exciting times lie ahead.

Gardening tips – Cut back the foliage of flowering bulbs if it has completely died down.  Plant summer bedding for colourful displays through to autumn.  Keep tender seedlings and young plants watered. Keep an eye out for slugs.

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