Heavy Rain

Heavy rain, really quite tropical fell on Saturday and Sunday. The result is abundant growth.

The Baskets

After Chelsea Dr Anne decided to plant strawberries in the baskets this year. There are four baskets each with three plants. There are three early (Honeoye), three mid season (Elsenta), six late season (Florence). Dr Anne planted them with a mix of John Innes No 3 and Murphy's multi-purpose compost. She gave them a thorough soaking. The strawberries will be fed with Levington's Tomorite as it is rich in potassium. Reports will be forthcoming throughout the season.

The Rockery

Dr Anne dropped past White Lodge Nursery, near Turriff. There were some large, beautiful, fresh looking alpines. Although they have been unsuccessful on previous occasions Dr Anne decided to give them a try on the rockery which is presently bare of plants.

Planted are: Primula vialii, Dianthus Annette, Anacyclus pyrethrum var. depressus, Lewisia 'Little Plum', Pratia pedunculara, Rhodohypoxis 'Twinkle Star' and some variegated thyme.

Sculptures at Chelsea

Watering a tender plant
Transporting some flowers
Collecting Apples
All by Christopher Lisney

Sandstone Roses in th M&G Garden

Anyone who knows Dr Anne is aware that she loves garden sculpture. Above are some of her favourites.

Favourites from Chelsea Show

The University of Worcester Garden - a low allergy garden. There was a calmness in this garden to sit around and have a 'rant'. Dr Anne really liked the coloured glass in the roof.

SAC Strutt and Parker Sustainable Highland Garden - a contemporary take on a traditional Scottish way of life. The windbreaks are powered by a wind turbine on the roof of the house. They close to protect plants. Native planting, a water rill and insect homes under the windshields provide ideal conditions for birds and insects.

Christian before Dior

This garden reflects Dior's love of flowers and design and the influence these were to have on his couture collections and perfumes. Dr Anne particularly liked the hydrangeas in the big pots and of course the roses and lavender.

Global Stone Bee Friendly Plants Garden above and below
This garden aims to draw attention to the important role that gardeners can play in sustaining the UK's threatened bee population. Dr Anne really liked the design of this garden.

Dr Anne has chosen the above as her favourite gardens. She principally chose them because of their design but she also particularly liked the planting in the Christian before Dior.

Chelsea Show, 2010

Hanging Basket in Japanese Garden

Hanging basket in Japanese Garden

Strawberries in baskets in the Grand Pavilion

Dr Anne and Greygranite headed for Chelsea Show on Members' Day. It was the first time for both and what a day they had. Dr Anne had three purposes - the rockery, the baskets and the possibilities for a future patio makeover. There were no rockeries and few hanging baskets. Greygranite has since purchased a conical hanging basket and Dr Anne has purchased strawberries for her baskets.

Lily of the Valley

Lily of the Valley from the Dell

Dr Anne dedicates this most beautiful of flowers to Mrs McArthur and her best friend Jenny Paterson. This was Jenny's favourite flower and every year Dr Anne would give her a bunch tied with a beautiful ribbon. The posy has been placed in the front window. The scent is filling the room.