Trying to keep on top of the lottie

I’m in the rather fortunate position of having a few days off and sunny weather coinciding. A rare treat this summer of which I’m trying to make the most of the opportunity. Gwenfar’s Lottie – producing food, but massively over …

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Iris x fulvala ‘Violacea’

Let’s just ignore the fact I haven’t blogged for ages… For a variety of reasons, none of which are very interesting. Instead, enjoy this picture of the beautiful Iris x fulvala ‘Violacea’ which I recently saw at the National Botanic Gardens …

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The achievement of black plastic

After three years work, Kevin and I have finally cut down the worst of the brambles and the 2nd half of the lottie, not yet in cultivation, is now covered in black plastic. This feels like quite an achievement, though …

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Oxford Sow & Grow newsletter

For Oxford Sow & Grow, my garden advice business, I’m going to start sending out a regular newsletter with gardening tips and information on upcoming workshops. If you would like to receive the newsletter, email me on jgp@cooptel.net and ask …

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Container gardening with legs

I saw this when on holiday in Germany, as we were cycling into Dernau, in the Ahr valley (near Rhine) with friends. Gives container gardening legs, don’t you think?!

Dear weather…

Dear weather, I don’t want to sound ungrateful. Because I’m not. I’m really pleased that I don’t have to lug heavy watering cans around the lottie for an hour tonight. My maincrop and late potatoes are no doubt swelling with …

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Oxford Sow & Grow launched

I have just launched my little business, Oxford Sow & Grow, which offers gardening advice and support for beginners. I’ve found from chatting to visitors at Barracks Lane Community Garden and when running the recent women’s gardening workshops, that there …

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