“The great green wave of May washes over the garden, the irresistible result of the meeting of light and warmth” writes Lia Leendertz
Well, Lia is certainly right about the green, it feels like you turn your back and suddenly everywhere you look you are bathed in the most glorious, lush, brightest of green. As for the warmth, well errr this year that’s debatable. Temperatures fluctuating, chilly north winds and yes, more rain. The plants and wildlife must be wondering what the heck is going on. I know I certainly am! Still, it’s not the first time we’ve experienced this and most certainly won’t be the last. Is it yet another example of our changing climate and how we in turn must adapt to it ?
Despite the alarming rate in which the grass has grown, the Aire Valley Gardening Team have once again reined ourselves in for the month of May ! We’ve resisted the urge and given the mower a rest. If you haven’t tried this already, why not give it a go? There are no rules; it doesn’t even have to be in May, you don’t have to leave all the grass uncut. You could try leaving a section of the lawn longer. You could even leave it uncut for longer than a month. Grasses left to seed and wildflowers allowed to bloom. Whichever option you choose, you’ll be providing habit and food for a very grateful nature. You can find out more info here.
The raised beds at RSPB Fairburn Ings have now been planted and we’re looking forward to harvesting peas, squash, potatoes and radish later in the year. The Willow Tunnel our team created earlier this year is looking great. New shoots of life are sprouting rapidly and judging by the trampled grass running through the centre; it’s proving to be a popular addition to the adventure play area.
Over at RSPB St Aidan’s, The Welcome Garden is looking ‘Blooming’ marvellous. A lovely combination of planting and allowing the garden to head in its own direction; cultivated plants are sitting quite happily alongside their wilder cousins. The change is quite amazing. Taking an unkempt and let’s face it, rather ugly looking piece of ground and transforming it. It took around 18 months from the first step of layering the cardboard and compost to produce this; a very short period of time. It’s a feast for our eyes and for nature too. We’re really rather proud of it.
Spring through to early Summer is a busy and often feels like a frantic time of year in the garden. Time, I think now to slow down and reap the rewards.
Take a depth breath, sit back with your chosen beverage and simply enjoy the view.
Written by: Jackie Pilcher
Photos: Jackie Pilcher
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