Still chilly at the start of May

I’ve been working on revamping the old herb garden since the start of the year into a more attractive array of shrubs, bulbs and annuals. The video encapsulates the progress so far. The rhubarb, melon balm and aquilegia remain from the original plot.

This is one of my favourite times of the year in the garden with the rhododendrons flowering, apple blossom and the emergence of the alliums. This year more than any previously I have been able to sit and enjoy time in the garden.

The patio pots have survived the early frosts and upon repotting the pelargoniums I managed to find some new plants

The cooler days have been occupied by clearing around the greenhouse and setting up the water but. The vegetable patch is progressing well and many pots of spinach and lettuce have moved out from the greenhouse. Before the lockdown I visited a potato fair in Marple. The potatoes and onion sets re doing great. The rainbow chard survived the winter and adds some welcome colour. I also have lettuce, peas, courgettes, spinach and runner beans. In the greenhouse I have sowed more courgettes and squashes from seeds. Trays of cauliflowers and outdoor tomatoes are being sheltered in the greenhouse.

Inside the chillis and tomatoes are thriving, filling every window ledge. They are all grown from seeds. Their progress is highlighted in the short film. Hoping for a good crop later this year.

Being in isolation has created plenty of time to plan new projects. Unable to leave the house I have relied on deliveries to the top of the drive. The first phase of my new project arrived yesterday 500kg of topsoil. I had an excellent workout moving the bags to the back garden!