Worth the wait

Beth's poppy (Papaver dubium subsp lecoqii var. albiflorimis - phew!) at last showing its gorgeous flower.  A lovely blushed pink, turning slightly paler towards the edges. The flowers are a little small and I can only guess this is due to a late winter sowing rather than an early autumn start.

RHS Chelsea Flower Show

RHS Chelsea Flower Show comes to an end but I wouldn't miss it for the world. Inspiring gardens, some more than others and the plants in the pavilion are to die for.

Many nurseries have been attending for a number of years and provide a colourful feast for the eyes. In my mind, one plant stands out amongst its neighbours and entices you in;  leaving you totally captivated by its beauty.  Meconopsis - simply stunning!

Going native

On a recent beach walk with the family, it was really satisfying to see native plants thriving in their harsh environment. Sea kale (Crambe maritima) and sea thrift (armeria) happily co-existing side-by-side. No requirement for watering, feeding or dead heading. The least interfered with the better.

If you choose the right plants for the right conditions, very little maintenance will be needed, not to mention growing much healthier and more resistance to disease. It's a win, win situation for both plant and human. 

Drooling wisterias

Wisterias are displaying their long, pendulous and fragrant racemes at the moment and Wisteria sinensis from china, is the one most commonly seen in our gardens.

The Japanese form, W. floribunda, native to Japan, provides the most eye-catching display with racemes much longer than its Chinese cousin.  Here, Wisteria floribunda 'Lipstick' is in fine form and like all wisterias, certainly benefiting from a twice yearly prune.