Bleak mid winter is finally here, in contrast to those early winter days which lull me into a false sense of security with their crisp, clear days. Now its dark at 7 o'clock in the morning and again at 4 o'clock in the afternoon. Pouring rain and gale force winds are interspersed with bleak, cold weather that chills you to the bone.
Excursions into the garden necessitate gloves, boots, waterproofs and several layers of clothing, whilst cold and flu viruses result in streaming noses and aching limbs. There always seems to be an excuse for avoiding gardening tasks - the lure of a hot cup of tea in front of a roaring log burner is just too strong. Borders lie unweeded and lawns stay unedged. The remains of summer perennials collapse into a decaying heap and the new border lies unfinished.
But a walk around the garden reveals some hidden treasures. Several roses, particularly 'The Fairy', Penstemons, marguerites and Lavatera are still bravely flowering. Convolvulus cneorum has just started to bloom as has that stalwart winter performer Jasminum nudiflorum (winter jasmine). The fiery stems of Cornus sanguinea 'Midwinter Beauty' add a warm glow to the winter garden, whilst soon the witch hazel (Hamamelis 'Diane') (above left) will produce its spidery, fragrant flowers. More promising still are the swelling buds bursting with springtime promise - first will be the hellebores who always brighten my New Year, followed by Camellias and then Rhododendrons.
Perhaps winter is not so bad, after all!
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