Tags
Astrantia major shaggy, buxus, ferns, gardens open for charity, Hydrangea petiolaris, six on saturday, Winslow in Bloom
This morning I helped my friend prepare her garden for Winslow open gardens. There was not anything major needed, rather pulling forget me nots and weeds and nipping back any over leggy growth on the shrubs. While I tackled these jobs my friend trimmed up all the box.
The weather was foul, windy, rainy and chilly. Everything was sopping wet from yesterday’s rain so anything we touched, showered us with more water. My Soggy Six today, joining The Propagator are from her lovely garden.
1. 
Hydrangea petiolaris in full lace. This grows on a deeply shaded wall of a neighbouring building and is at least 9ft up the wall. Birds are nesting so it will be tackled later in the summer when the birds have moved out and the flowers finished.
2. Ferns
My friend loves a fern and they do well in her walled garden with its deep loamy soil. This pair are in pots and we do not know the name but how delicate and ethereal next to the pot of Hydrangea . 
3. Ferns ( again)
This is Dryopteris wallichiana a showstopper in colour and size. Growing amongst alchemilla Mollis and pulmonaria. 
4.
Astrantia are delightful at the moment, unstressed, not too dry, looking perky. 
We believe this to be Astrantia shaggy looking perfect against Hardwick white painted timber.
5. Clipped box
This group is looking very happy after its trim. 
Peonies helpfully waiting to open, ideally for the open day.
6. Mint and drift
In a raised bed sits a large hunk of driftwood. At this time of year it adds interest to the large clump of mint growing happily in the dappled light.
That’s it, my Six to share.
If you are a local reader, Winslow in Bloom is next Sunday 16 June at 11am-5pm. £5 entrance covers you for up to 11 gardens. Funds raised go to local charities. Have a good weekend wherever you are. D.
