September will see us moving some of the perennials which are spreading too much in the herbaceous beds and re-planting in the grass in the lower garden, quite a few things will hold their own against even the more vigorous grass such as Ligularia, Lysimachia and Lythrum. Other perennials need splitting such as Hosta’s which we may move to one of the damp areas in the shrubberies. At the end of the month we will put pots of the most tender plants in the greenhouses just in case of an early frost in October, the plants in pots which are hardier we push up close and surround with coir sacks.

We also have a few plants to find space for which are recent acquisitions, and it is time for another visit to our favourite specialist nursery to fulfil our addiction, mum did say that we are not going to get many new plants but her will power is as low as mine when it comes to trying to resist the temptation of having a some new rare specimen.

Earlier today there was a hare lying close to me on one of the paths very still while I chatted to it, I went for my camera and it was still there but of course as soon as I was focusing in it shot off at super-sonic speed.

We close the garden on the 7^th September for the season but there is a lot to see throughout the year so if anyone would like to visit please do phone. I also welcome gardening questions and to do that click on the contact us button. For those of you in groups thinking about booking outings for next year we are happy to welcome you any day or evening and there is a free introductory talk by the head gardener.

In August we hosted a cheese and wine evening in aid of Collington church, we were very pleased to have good weather especially for the guests who joined the garden walk and talks. Tony, the Artist Blacksmith from The Smithy Bringsty gave us a great demonstration and brought some samples of his work to show us and we had some fun with a music and a flower quiz, I did give some clues to the flower quiz on the walks but still got a few groans when I announced the answers. Our thanks to everyone who came and helped us raise over £380.

Josh is extremely skilled at many styles of work be it traditional, contemporary, ornamental or functional whether it is designed to the customers own specification or created from one of a wealth of his own very original ideas. His craftsmanship is evident in every piece he forges from the smallest household item to large gates, railings and sculptures for house and garden. He also makes authentic weapons and armour for re-enactment groups and films. His greatest love is to construct metalwork which has a part of his own personality in it.

He has really found his niche in life and has gone from being bottom of his class at school to a top class blacksmith.

You can meet Josh and view his work at Moors Meadow where he is now resident blacksmith and will be here most days throughout the year. Tel. 07807461150