.

Spring has finally arrived and we can all start to enjoy the first flowers. These snowdrops are from one of our gardens in Ramsden where tens of thousands of snowdrops have developed into a spectacular display. This part of the garden was designed to be a wilder area without being overgrown. Left undisturbed, the snowdrops have naturalised prolifically over many years. In Summer this area becomes a wildflower meadow that attracts many species of insect, which help to feed the local wild bird population, as well as being a constant source of colour and movement. The bees pollinate the fruit trees in the orchard and meandering paths make the area a joy to be in.

There is still time to plant tulips for next year.  I think that they work best in pots and two of my favourites are Mount Tacoma and Queen of the Night.  Plant at a depth of 15cm or 6in and bring the pots out to pride of place in the Spring.

October is a wonderful month for flowering grasses such as Miscanthus and Pennisetum and for late-flowering perennials such as Asters and Aconites. Fabulous colour can now be seen on the hawthorns and June-berry.