Lie of the land......

Our home is situated near the floodplains of the River Beult. It is one of the few clay rivers in England to retain much of its chartacteristic fauna. The river is designated as a site of Special Scientific Interest.

Our previous home was situated on a hill. To move to a low lying area, has been a huge learning curve.

Ditches take the excess water away from the garden........and out to the river Beult. Mr P and I check the ditches regularly to make sure there are no blockages.

With a high water table for most of the year (excluding this one) the garden is perfect for ferns.

I added plenty of horse manure to the beds before I planted. I have only watered the ferns a couple of times during this very dry spell........all are doing well.

I always put a log or two near the plants.....for me, that is just the way it should be.

All ferns are planted in shade or semi-shade......

My hosta's are still leaf perfect, thanks to the resident song thrush.

I have found many empty snail shells around the garden. I do not use any pest controls here. In my humble opinion, they are not good for the garden, or for me. I don't do stamping either.........I am a sensitive soul, and actually quite proud of it.

Pulmonaria had begun to look rather sad, but the torrential rain that came yesterday has livened them up.

Even Arum italicum has produced beautiful berries...........lovely to see dotted amongst the planting.

Heavy rain is forecast for the next few days......I feel relieved. I love this area for all that it is. I may sometimes curse when the roads are flooded........or the ditches overflow and need unblocking but all in all, I love to live in this damp and interesting area.

Hope you are having a peaceful and happy weekend.......