Springing into Action

Daphne Kenkwa - a blaze of colour
Daphne Kenkwa – a blaze of colour

A few weeks ago I was terrified that there would be no growth in my garden come the Centenary weekend when the Convent will be open to the public. A little rain, some wonderful sunny weather and maybe a bit of the TLC kicking in has made a huge difference.

Manchurian Pear - just over a year old. Nice to see the green growth.
Manchurian Pear – just over a year old. Nice to see the green growth.

Remembering that I only bought the place second quarter of last year and have only been here permanently since November, most of the garden is new and many plants have not flowered or even had leaves on before, so it’s hugely exciting to see plants come up, flower and leaf for the first time. Some of those that have already been in for a season are not disappointing and it’s astounding to see all the new growth.

One of two arching Mr Lincoln's. Great new growth.
One of two arching Mr Lincoln’s. Great new growth.

I already have some emerging stars. The Daphne Genkwa is stunning – just full lilac blooms and no green in sight. It will be finished before the garden is open, but I’m learning to enjoy the plants at their peak rather than wishing they would hold on for a few more weeks. I’m sure there will still be delights in the garden for the October long weekend celebrations.

In the meantime, much will be up to Mother Nature – I can only assist with watering, feeding, weeding and general cleaning up duties at this point.

Florence Mann - the sole rhododendron
Florence Mann – the sole rhododendron
Alphone Anderson - part of a selection of older style large azaleas
Alphone Anderson – part of a selection of older style large azaleas
The central bed constantly changes - ranunculus and anenomes with lots of interesting things self-seeding including cornflowers and white cosmos
The central bed constantly changes – ranunculus and anemones with lots of interesting things self-seeding including cornflowers and white cosmos