Author Archives: Helen

About Helen

I have always been interesting in living a more environmentally friendly lifestyle and used to do what I could. Now, I have come to realise that we have reached such a point in terms of environmental degradation that it is more important - perhaps - to focus on building resilience. I therefore do as much as I can to reuse, grow my own and encourage a supportive community, for example. I also keep reading and learning all the time.

Harvesting what I can

Posted on May 23, 2019

The rhubarb isn’t growing very well this year. I put it down to the crown only being rehomed in its new spot in March, so its roots couldn’t develop in time. Never mind, it is good to have a rest … Continue reading →

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Three slightly bigger trees

Posted on May 19, 2019

I got a timely reminder from The Woodland Trust the other day about looking after my two hazels and the yew tree I bought back in February. This is what they looked like before I cut away as much of … Continue reading →

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Spongy

Posted on May 17, 2019

I felt a new sensation when planting out the globe artichoke the other day. Unfortunately, I needed to step on the bed in front of the intended planting space to get to it and the ground was springy. I’m hoping … Continue reading →

Posted in Gardening | Tagged , , | 8 Comments

Sighting a blue butterfly

Posted on May 13, 2019

After last summer’s heatwave and the difficulties I had both locking my back door and getting to bed at a reasonable hour, I have worked out tactics to avoid these now that we have moved into summery weather. The first … Continue reading →

Posted in perennials, Pond and bog garden, Wildlife | Tagged , , | 18 Comments

Unexpected protection

Posted on May 12, 2019

I’m not pleased that the pheromone trap I put out to protect my apple trees is plastic or that the insert can only be thrown away once it is replaced every six weeks. On the other hand, I never expected … Continue reading →

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Another sedum, I think!

Posted on May 10, 2019

It seems like weeks since I had my usual Friday, where I did some work in the garden after swimming and my Knit and Natter group. So, it was almost a relief to have some normality today. Last weekend, my … Continue reading →

Posted in Gardening, perennials | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

Snow and climate change

Posted on May 8, 2019

I’m really pleased that there has been an increase in discussion about climate change in the media in recent weeks, no doubt in part to Greta Thunberg and Extinction Rebellion. It’s an incredible shame that the issue needed this to … Continue reading →

Posted in edible flowers, forest garden, perennials | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments