A sprinkling of seed

It wasn't until the middle of April I decided to get a packet of annual seed mix to give a particularly difficult area of border some added oomph.  It was alongside the road and previous plantings really suffered due to both the shallow soil and little rain from above because of the shelter from the overhanging eaves.

In a matter of about 12 weeks the flowers are really strutting their stuff and looking lovely.  Next year I feel I might do more selected areas for a quick and relatively cheap display.  In fairness, the display is short lived but for a few brief weeks I feel it's worth it...don't you?

A new one on me

Dianthus carthusianorum is a recently discovered gem. Very much like the common dianthus we see in numerous gardens but these stems reach up to 60 cm and are topped off with delightful deep pink flowers.

I've planted it along with Imperata cylindric, Echinacea and Pennisetum 'Red Buttons' in my own small front forecourt to see how it gets along and depending on the results, I would very much like to use it in other client's gardens, possibly interplanted amongst ornamental grasses. I'll update you all next year.

Planting partnerships

At this time of year you can't help but notice those planting combinations that work and those that look fairly dismal. One plant that seems to team up well with pretty much anything is the hardy geraniums.

The lovely magenta flowers of Geranium 'Ann Thompson' works well alongside a variegated euonymous and will provide a lasting display well into October...and beyond!

Another combination is G. 'Rozanne' with Santolina romaranifolia subsp. 'Primrose Gem.'  Both plants on there own would look ok but by adding a contrasting colour your borders will be much more pleasing and dynamic to the eye. So remember, plant with a partner in mind and not in isolation!

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.