Garden diary entry 20-8-15
Chapel Bank: Passed by on my way to the tools... The
H&S: Soaped down all the steps and shady paths this morning, old and new alike. As beautiful as the mansion be, it has many parts in almost constant shade and algae is a regular terror. Nobody really notices the effort, but if I stop, someone is sure to slip! Who puts smooth textured stone steps in heavy shade anyway? Have we not learned anything!
Cedars: Once again the patchy carpet of wild 'ish' flowers have turned into a carpet of weeds, not a good look. Must sort soon...
Lodge area: The area to become the building site is one of the strongest growth areas for shrubs planted but three years back. Had a first foray into moving some of the plants, but deduced quite quickly that it simply isn't cost or time effective. Ultimately I need a clean sheet for this area, so for the plants; a stay of execution....
North Park: But for a lick of paint, the new railings are installed - although to everyone's concern the cattle are threatening to add their touch to the scene, leaning on the rail, popping their clumsy heads through and lifting it up. One cow is tolerable, but when three attempt to restyle the fence? Not good. Thankfully Nick, our local farmer was quick to our call with a line of leccy fencing, so we'll see what the cows make of that in the morning...
Pond Dipping: Enjoyed a brief visit to the site of our soon-to-be pond dipping area. A biologist offered some advice to an assembled group on how best to manipulate the conditions to suit our needs. Fascinating and I'm looking forward to having my first official dip next summer!
Watercress bed: reviewed progress down at the water cress bed, which has come a long way thanks to Anne's efforts. We're forming a plan for winter renovation, and propagation of new material next spring too, then, hopefully, we'll be cropping again next year.
Maybe I'll get the scythe out tomorrow, heaven knows it's long overdue...
