We finally had some rain here in Yorkshire last week and the garden is looking a lot better for it. Apparently it’s the first measurable rainfall we’ve had since mid March, which considering April is known for it’s showers, it’s pretty unusual!

The patio is starting to green up fast, the geraniums are covering their bed by the gate now, euphorbias are curling out their lime green bracts, hostas are opening their leaves and the white broom (in the middle) is in flower. I bought the broom last year at the Harrogate Spring Flower show, it was one of those plants where people stop you to ask where you bought it!

The sunshine and warmth has brought many flowers out earlier too. This aquilegia is down by the patio, it’s so pretty…

On Sunday it was Dawn Chorus Day, there were various internet events on to help you identify the birds from their songs. I set my alarm clock for 5am, the allotted time, with the idea that I would see how I felt when it went off. As it was I was already awake, so I got up, made a cup of tea, then sat outside on my arbour with an old quilt wrapped round me to keep warm and listened to the birds. It was all very peaceful, I can recognise some birds, like the robin and the blackbird, the wren and the great tit, after that it could be anything! I started listening to one of the broadcasters but it interfered with listening to the birds, I think it’s something I need to do later. It was a nice way to start the day.

I’ve quite a few clumps of camassia around the garden, I think they are stunning bulbs, so once I discovered they actually like my clay soil, I planted several! I planted a white one too last year but so far it hasn’t done much this time.

The rhododendron’s are coming into flower too, this one is by the big fence and I’m hoping in time it will grow into quite a big bush, hide some of the fence.

I’m making slow progress in the front garden, well I was until I did too much digging and strained my knee! Two pilates sessions and it’s much better, though I don’t want to push it. I’ve a lot to cut down and dig out in the front, trying to get some semblance of control! Having broken all my secateurs I treated myself to a new pair and some matching loppers, so hopefully I can crack on now. I also had a bit of a brainwave regarding all these prunings. Our tip is currently closed due to covid, so they’re stacking up – we’ve three ton bags full already. I suggested that if we bought a shredder, all the shrubby clippings could go in the hot composter. My OH agreed and collected one the next day!

Having a bit of a break from digging has given me time to think about what’s staying and what needs to come out – I’ve a lot to do!