Property Handiwork

15/03/2026

Am creating a border from scratch that will hopefully grow well, look attractive and thrive in full sun. By following the principle of "right plant, right place," I hope to support wildlife, reduce the likelihood of plant health problems and add colour to an otherwise green garden.

In preparing the soil, I've dug about a foot down, loosened the earth beneath, then forked in appropriate levels of treated top soil and farmyard manure, along with a sparing application of chicken manure pellets. This should give the plants that'll go in there the best possible start to establish successfully 🌿

09/03/2026

Wood chippings are an excellent natural . It breaks down slowly, lasts a very long time and doesn't need to be reapplied often. It also forms a very handy protective layer that helps retain moisture in the , gradually releasing it back into the ground while helping keep weeds in the at bay.

09/03/2026

I was recently recommended The Wild Gardener by a friend. After watching it on BBC iPlayer, it’s clear the programme focuses on using natural and native plants that thrive best in their natural environment.

Is just two episodes, so catch them when you can.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/m0011psv/the-wild-gardener

Colin Stafford-Johnson transforms his childhood garden into a haven for wildlife.

04/03/2026

It may have sounded as though I was firing off rapid short bursts but I was actually steadily cutting through ash dieback trunks and turning them into mulch.

Hawes Plant & Tool Hire

25/02/2026

Putting something back

゚

17/02/2026

We’ve had plenty enough rain now. A good dry spell is in order with just the occasional shower every other week or so! If only.

09/02/2026

The view from my working window.

07/02/2026

Felled ash trees affected by dieback to help prevent the disease from spreading to healthy ones. Branches that were obstructing the adjoining bridle path have been cut back and several dead overhanging branches removed to reduce the risk of them falling and causing disruption to horse riders, cyclists and pedestrians that regularly use this area, a stone’s throw from Friar Park and Badgemore.

22/01/2026

The understory is rich with beautiful , much of it completely new to me. Isn't nature just amazing.

14/01/2026

Removing the diseased trees and invasive shrubs, which will be chipped into mulch to enrich the topsoil in the upper garden of this Henley property. Some selective thinning will help open the woodland canopy up to provide essential light for newly planted trees and allow the vegetation in the understorey to thrive.

09/01/2026

Through every season, this bridge has offered a unique vantage point from which to witness the garden’s landscape transform.