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We got out in the garden in late afternoon and worked together on the herb patch. DB dug out the mint which had escaped its pot and was heading for next door. Gave everything a good weed and a haircut. The ants and winter have finished off the variegated oregano
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A cold wind and heavy rain meant no gardening. It didn't get above 7C all day. But once spring is under way there's no stopping it. Only the beech is still showing no sign of breaking bud. In flower today: white quince forsythia magnolia daphne amelanchia
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Spent most of today on J and P's garden {see other blog} but bought a new bird feeder on the way home. Within half an hour of putting it up there was a goldfinch on it. First time I've seen one this year. Also saw a
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Took out the last of the misfit shrubs and planted up the new arrivals. If the Himalyan poppies don't thrive, well, I give up. They're in a sheltered border, in dappled shade, in loamy acid soil with their roots in 2 feet of leaf mould, manure
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Came home and mooched around the garden to the sound of a distant car alarm and a song thrush. I've heard it for the last few evenings but couldn't see it. Finally saw it about three gardens away. Definitely a song thrush this time. I played
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The new arrivals - just unpacked
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Not of the resurrection or chocolate variety but in the earthly form of a four day weekend spent outdoors and an hour of extra evening daylight. Bliss. Stripped out some large shrubs (earmarked for J's garden) and spread 2 year old leaf mould on the birch tree border
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The fruit garden after a long day weeding and replanting.
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Identified the chrysalis as an elephant hawk moth. Have seen them in the garden late summer so that works. This picture is copyright of Richard Burkmar 2004
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Found in the gravel path while weeding. Probably a hawk moth chrysalis.
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We reached 20.8C here yesterday. DB and I spent the day in his parents' garden in warm sunshine. So warm that I stripped to my sports top and got a touch of sunburn on my shoulders. I don't ever remember that happening in March before. So
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Much spawn. And one female who has clearly had more than enough attention...