Bird nests are fascinating things. The little feathered creatures that build their own homes have an internal blueprint for how they need to build them. This nest is a Blackbird nest. Notice the blue piece of nylon entwined into the structure, this is off the twine that holds bales of hay together. This nest hasContinue reading “Nests”
Tag Archives: #nature
Therapeutic Horticulture
What is Therapeutic Horticulture? Who is Therapeutic Horticulture for? They’re the two main questions I’ve been asked when speaking to people about my professional focus over 2023. In a nutshell, Therapeutic Horticulture (or TH) is using horticultural practices to achieve therapeutic outcomes, and TH is for everyone. TH can be as simple as keeping houseplantsContinue reading “Therapeutic Horticulture”
We’re In Clover
This little plant is loaded with symbolism. White Clover (Trifolium repens) has been used as animal fodder probably since the domestication of farm animals. It is also connected to the idea of good luck and prosperity. I also think the flowers are beautiful. The saying ‘we’re in clover’ is believed to be linked to theContinue reading “We’re In Clover”
Cold
It’s been a while since I’ve written anything in this space, a death in the family created a glitch in daily life that will take a while to mend. Meanwhile, it’s got cold here in the Western Districts of Victoria, Australia. We traditionally think of the year as having only four seasons, a hangover fromContinue reading “Cold”
World Bee Day
It’s World Bee Day today! May 20. Yay for bees! Without bees our world would be much more fragile and food would be harder to grow! If nothing else, take a moment to reflect on how important these tiny critters are, and think about ways we can support them in our gardens Planting flowers andContinue reading “World Bee Day”
Yes, it is Autumn!
Any doubts about it being Autumn have been thrown out the window. Cool, misty mornings and a promise of the end to daylight savings are proof positive it is, indeed, Autumn. These beauties have been popping up in the wild all over the place as well. There are quite a few different colours, one dayContinue reading “Yes, it is Autumn!”
Snails
I’m a live and let live kind of a person usually, but when it comes to snails, I have limits! When I’m in the garden and I come across a snail going about its business, I’ll either just leave it or throw it out on to the grass. I figure if it survives long enoughContinue reading “Snails”
Roses and Chickens
This weekend the small town I live close to had its annual show. Well, it had been annual for 80 or so years until covid put paid to it for two years, but now it’s back! The Noorat Show first happened in 1933 and has grown to be one of the main events in theContinue reading “Roses and Chickens”
To tease, or not to tease…
As a professional gardener I get asked a lot of gardening questions. Planting questions are right up there, and one of the most asked is “Do I tease out the roots, or do I not tease out the roots?” My answer is always “it depends”. Not very helpful, I know, but it really does dependContinue reading “To tease, or not to tease…”
Soggy and bedraggled
Soggy and bedraggled is the best way to describe my garden and its surrounds here in South West Victoria. The rain is back again after a few gorgeous days, so we’re back to hearing stories of flooding, and dangerous waters. I’m managing to keep on top of the pasture grasses that make their way intoContinue reading “Soggy and bedraggled”
The Flowerpot Pen 