Journal
The journal
Slow, opinionated writing about plants, weather, soil and the quiet decisions that shape a garden over years.
When (and when not) to scarify a tired lawn
Soil temperature, not the calendar, decides when to scarify. A practical guide from an RHS-qualified gardener in the Midlands.
Why your meadow won't flower in year one
Year one is grass. Year two is where it begins. Understanding the ecology behind wildflower meadow establishment.
"Right plant, right place" isn't a clich?
Soil, light, space: the three questions that decide whether a planting scheme lasts a decade or a single season.
A small case for letting one corner go
A small patch of intentional neglect does more for biodiversity than a border of pollinator plants. Here is why.
Summer pruning of espaliered fruit
The Lorette method adapted for Midlands weather: how and when to summer-prune espaliered apples and pears.
Why we mulch in autumn, not spring
Three good reasons to apply mulch in October, not March: frost protection, earthworm activity and early weed suppression.
When (and when not) to scarify a tired lawn
Read more →Why your meadow won't flower in year one
Read more →"Right plant, right place" isn't a clich?
Read more →A small case for letting one corner go
Read more →Summer pruning of espaliered fruit
Read more →Why we mulch in autumn, not spring
Read more →Like what you see?
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