There are two ways to buy and/or transplant flower bulbs: either when they dry and dormant, or when they are in growth, known as “in the green” Most bulbs are like bareroot trees in the sense that they are only transplanted when they are dormant. But a few species tend to transplant better when they… Continue reading What Does “Bulbs in the Green” Mean?
Hereford Times Orchard Lane Leylandii Song
Orleton locals got a laugh from the Hereford Times “AI Assisted” article that used a stock image of an Oak Tree for an article about cutting down a tall Leylandii hedge, inspiring a satirical folk song Church Lane residents in Orleton, Herefordshire, were treated to a masterpiece of robot writing in this Hereford Times article… Continue reading Hereford Times Orchard Lane Leylandii Song
Self-Fertile Apple Trees That Pollinate Themselves
Apple pollination is usually not a concern in the UK, because there are so many orchard and crab apple trees around However, self-fertile apple trees are still the most reliable choice for most growers, especially if you only have space for one tree in your garden. Self-pollinating apple trees are the most popular varieties we… Continue reading Self-Fertile Apple Trees That Pollinate Themselves
Royal Horticultural Society Wisley Winter Walk
In January, gardeners stare longingly at soggy patches of lawn and bare trees, scouring the earth for the tender spear of a spring bulb or the plump purple protuberance of a leaf bud on a naked branch But, wait! I’ve already gone on about the best plants for a winter garden, which is all very… Continue reading Royal Horticultural Society Wisley Winter Walk
Which Tree is Yggdrasil?
The question “what species of tree is Yggdrasil?” is not one I ever get asked, but when the day comes I will say “ha, finally! A species is a group of things of the same kind, and Yggdrasil is unique. Gotcha!”This could be why I don’t get invited to parties. According to science, Yggdrasil, honoured… Continue reading Which Tree is Yggdrasil?
Ashridge: A Rural Nightmare Audiodrama
In this shamelessly low effort blog post, I share with you Tony Walker’s chilling series of supernatural stories set in the fictional town of Ashridge, which doesn’t exist just down the road from us in Castle Cary While I was busy working hard, doing important business research on YouTube about handsome young Scotsman Graeme Parker and… Continue reading Ashridge: A Rural Nightmare Audiodrama
Best Plants for A Winter Garden
Tiny marvels dispel winter gloom: the uplifting power of nature! As I filled up the bird feeders yesterday, I noticed the intense dogwood stems contrasted against the fence, and the first winter clematis flowers emerging. I inhaled deeply, savouring the trace of witch hazel on the breeze. “Ah”, I said to myself, “I could feast… Continue reading Best Plants for A Winter Garden
The Best Tomato & Mascarpone Risotto Recipe: Creamy, Savoury Comfort Food
For a comforting dish that’s bursting with rich, creamy flavours, this Tomato & Mascarpone Risotto is exactly what you need. Ingredients: Method: Prepare the ingredients:Begin by heating your stock in a saucepan over low heat to keep it warm. In a large pan or wide skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the… Continue reading The Best Tomato & Mascarpone Risotto Recipe: Creamy, Savoury Comfort Food
Apple Orchard Wassailing
Orchard wassailing is an indigenous English ritual with records dating back as far as the 11th century, and is still performed by the tribes of the South West in cider orchards Here we come a-wassailing! Traditionally performed on the 12th night after Christmas, January 5th or 6th, some people may accuse me of being a… Continue reading Apple Orchard Wassailing
Making Bonsai from Your Bareroot Trees
Somerset Bonsai Society is our absolute favourite Bonsai Society in Somerset. We love them so much that whenever they visit us, we treat them to a bin bag of damaged reject plants covered in mud And local bonsai enthusiasts ingeniously turn these trees, which had been destined for the compost heap, into beautiful bonsai. Young… Continue reading Making Bonsai from Your Bareroot Trees