Starting to think about the development of the top border...

We have been quietly plodding away through the colder months, yes.

There will remain a line of three Hazel stools, which I aim to coppice every 2-3 years, so each stool is given 6-9 years between coppicing. The remaining stools are each about double the size of the one we removed. There are another 3-4 smaller stools - a couple in the main part of the border, and a couple in a wilder corner of the border. To be honest, if I could wave a wand, they would all be gone, but I just can't face the weeks of work to get them out, so they will probably stay.

Yes, the soil in most of the garden is very sandy, to say the least. Still, I know things grow in it, if given time. Hazel, for example....

We have a few herbaceous perennials already dotted through the border. The Rugosa roses are on their final year reprieve. We hope to pop some hydrangeas in there, but I know they will need serious soil improvement. Also wondering about rhodedendrons?

Sorry, I know I planned to take some fresh Spring shots, but a poorly dog last night meant that I was exhausted today, so didn't get done what was planned.

 

A mechanical digger for the Hazels perhaps?

Hmmm, Hydrangeas like coastal locations (sandy soil). Perhaps it's worth planting one just to see how it performs. I'm not so sure about Rhododendrons I think they would probably struggle.

I hope your dog is feeling better.