I was full of good intentions; I’d taken the photos on Friday, uploaded them and had started to write the post when son phoned to asked if I’d like to meet him for a pizza. Of course I said yes, then Saturday happened (tomatoes in the polytunnel, but that’s another post) and now it’s Sunday evening.

I’d planned to post about the roses in the front and back gardens and as it’s Sunday I’m not constrained by six things.

Here’s an overview of progress in the front. I’m super pleased that Chandos Beauty has settled in and the two shrub roses Charles Austin are also doing well.

Chandos Beauty
Charles Austin

Moving to the back, the sarcophagus bed and pittomatis are really getting going.

This is climber Scent from Heaven, which slightly overstates the fragrance. The jasmine is covered in buds; the patio will be scentastic.

Next along the herbaceous border of dreams is Strawberry Hill. I love the colour and shape, just wish the stems were less whippy. The cornflowers were grown from seed; I was expecting them to all be black ball, but the blue is a happy accident. Please excuse the pigeon graffiti. Growing up and maybe supported by the cornflowers is shrub rose Buff Beauty.

Finally and saving the best for last is Gertrude Jekyll. I’m training her as a climber, although given her spiky spines, the pergola post may not be the best place but I’m happy to sit in the shade on the patio and admire her.

The next couple of Saturdays are busy so there’s a good chance you won’t see me again until July! Happy gardening.