Frugal Gardening

This year was to be the year that I turned my garden into one of those little "show" gardens that they have at "Tatton" or Hampton Court flower shows. I was going to treat it to some stunning features, amazing new plants, a new patio and new garden furniture. But just like every other year, forces intervened and the cash was spent elsewhere. And so, it was time to use creative thinking in the garden. With inspiration from last nights Gardeners World and a lovely lady who exhibited at the Malvern Spring Show (what I wouldn't give to attend that with a wad of spondooleys!!!), I set about today making a pond from a dustbin lid ( I use the bin to grow spuds in).

Not very inspiring I hear you cry, but with a quick bit of splitting plants from elsewhere in the garden, and repositioning all of Mother Natures Freebies (the Lady's Mantle and an unidentified Pink flowering plant had self seeded themselves on the drive!!), half an hour later it was looking something like. All it needs now is a bit of sunshine, a resident toad and perhaps I might treat it to a water lilly.

And finally, what to do with all your wine corks - I saw this great idea when I went to Carl Wilde's house back in December. Its supposed to discourage snails and slugs around your plants. I'll let you know if it works. Meanwhile, it looks as if I need to drink a few more bottles of wine!!