blackthorn

More natives..

prunus spinosa - blackthorn - an draighean

mushroom compost

The native soil in the garden is a heavy clay soil which is not free draining. I want to add this organic matter to try to improve the structure of the soil. It is composed mainly of straw, poultry manure, peat and lime. It has been delivered as 'spent' compost and will need to decompose for around a year. I'll spread it in wheelbarrow loads and leave it to sit on the surface. So, a lot of wheelbarrowing...

soil

Some soil moved and some mushroom compost delivered.

And a start made on a water feature.

previous gardens

Most of my previous gardens have been small urban gardens, often formal, trying to maximise usable space. With more space and a rural setting I expect a much more naturalistic garden. Below are some of the elements I would like to incorporate in the new garden.

streams

A large stream and a smaller one surround the site on two sides. But I want to bring the water right into the heart of the garden.

bonsai

And, I dream of a Bonsai Garden, filled with small trees...

existing plants

It will be important not to destroy too much the habitat for the current native plants and animals.

first post

This new garden has been an empty field for several years. Neglected, it has filled with Rushes, Briars and Furze bushes. I won't clear them all, but I will find space for Acers, Pines, Birches and so many more along side the Ash, Whitethorn, Holly, Beech, Willow and Blackthorn.

And I want an Orchard, a Vegetable garden, a Coppice of Willow, Hazel, Sweet Chestnut..

And water everywhere. Very wet heavy soil and a high water table. But a fast stream with a gravelly stoney bed on two sides. An old stone bridge at the road. Big changes in levels. Lots of potential, lots of work...