Gardens4People blog

As is the way with most things, the best laid plans of mice, men and gardeners can be thwarted by the weather. Of course, the minute I mentioned cutting the grass it rained.....and rained......and rained. Some sunshine in between but not enough to dry the aforementioned lawn out sufficiently. So - my dilemna now is do I leave it until the end of the month when the lunar calendar is next favourable or do I just do it? Since today it is again sunshine and showers, and predicted to be until the weekend, there is no urgency for me to reach a decision. Will see how things go.

The produce in the greenhouse is coming good, but there has been an outbreak of aphids which I have had to spray. The usual backup and alternatives of marigolds clearly did not appeal to these little horrors. Also, after a superb display of roses, the rain battered the heads and the resultant rot and humidity led to an infestation of greenfly, which again had to be chemically addressed. Not a big fan of chemicals but sometimes needs must. So, watch your roses carefully and check anything still under glass!

Decided to plant under the obelisks a "Black Eyed Susan" - which is actually white, and in the other pot a chilli plant in the hope that these will add extra decor to the pool surround. At least we will enjoy the chillis in time!

Managed at the weekend to visit two gardens. One I would highly recommended - the garden at the Pottery Hillen at Thermes Magnoac. Quite unique and extremely photogenic.

The other was at Chateau Bouscasse, in Maumusson, the home of Alan Brumont who is the largest independent producer of Madiran wine. This garden was designed by Giles Clement, but was in dire need of tlc and replanting. Some of the original design had been altered which I felt spoiled the fluidity and permiability of the various garden areas. A super and original concept, sadly not realised.