Blossom

2/10/10

Just read an old post from April, where I described removing jasmine from a cherry tree in Bowral. I worried the tree was beyond hope but the worry was needless, as this picture attests.

Before and after

2/10/10

Here are some before and after shots of a bit of garden next to my driveway. I planted a rose that is ailing-I thought it had died and I almost chucked it, but we'll see how it goes. I also planted a small May bush, taken from a Bowral cutting, a pink pelargonium and some lambs ears.

I am obsessed with geranium/pelargoniums at the moment. This morning T and I went to Geranium Cottage, in Dural, to buy some. I bought the pink one in the picture as well as a variegated scented one that will have mauve flowers and one with deep burgundy leaves. There were to be planted beside the drive as well, but I couldn't bare to have them tucked away where I will hardly ever see them so I think I will put them in the front garden somewhere.

The sweet smell of spring

15/9/10

Today I went for a walk and the air smelled sweet because of the jasmine and other spring blossoms. On Monday I planted some pansies, verbena and greeny-creamy petunias, which should complement my little 'seafoam' roses.

This afternoon I sowed some seeds that had a best before date of 2008-Queen Anne's Lace and white cosmos. We shall see if they germinate. I also sowed some red and pink cosmos-"red dazzler" and "Sensation" and some alyssum. Finally, I planted a punnet of basil as companions for my tomato plants.

Miscalculating

5/9/10

I walked for an hour with T today, then tidied up the garden by the driveway. I pulled out some scrambly native violet and planted a variety of succulents. I chose succulents because whatever is in that garden must survive on rainfall and cosseting isn't on. I also planted some red pelargoniums (from cuttings, as were the succulents) and mulched the agapanthas. I planted those about two years ago and they are thriving.

My broad beans are vigorous and I fear they will topple under their own weight once they heavy with beans. I miscalculated when planting them and placed them near small pyramid supports. I have had to tie to the support with string and the plants now tower above the pyramids. I should have known better.

Whenever I visit a good friends place, I take a few cuttings. The succulents I planted today are cuttings from three different gardens and whenever I look at them I think of my friends.

On our walk today I found some beautiful grass seed-heads. I have also posted two photos of two very different coloured broad bean flowers.

Daffodils and fitness

2/9/10

Here are some photos of my daffodils. Today I planted a groundcover, Iberis sempervirens-candytuft, which is described as an evergreen, spreading, herbaceous perennial. It is supposed to be a v. good edging plant. Should be pruned back by 1/3 after flowering to maintain its compact habit and it should be fed annually. I also planted Argyranthemum marguerite daisy 'rum and raisins', which is a lovely dark pink.

Instant hedge

26/8/10

I wish I could remember to take before and after shots-yesterday I transformed a blob of sea-side daisies into a hedge and I am v. happy with the result. I planted hydrangeas grown from cuttings on one side and begonias grown from seed on the other.

Tonight we had chicken seasoned with chilli, kaffir lime leaves, lemon grass and coriander all from our garden.

Post-holiday

24/8/10

Since my last post I have passed two Bar exams and failed one. We also went on a driving holiday to Adelaide. The Hay Plain was green and studded with ponds-an unusual sight.

I have neglected the garden due to studying and travelling, however on Sunday night we harvested some broccoli and cavalo nero, which I cooked and tossed in a little olive oil and lemon juice. Here are some photos.