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. It is down to earth and a great part of the British countryside. Cardamine pratensis is commonly known as the cuckoo flower, presumably because it flowers at the same time as the cuckoo appears (we noticed both on the same day). The cuckoo flower is a member

There are so few plants that do well in my small, shady garden, but those that do thrive deserve a medal. This week, honesty is taking centre stage, with its tall spires of brilliant white flowers, towering above more subtle spring blooms.I love

There are many hardy and half-hardy annuals that can be grown for cut flowers. Many attract bees and butterflies and some species can be dried, for use in long-lasting displays.Sow hardy and half-hardy annuals between March and April in small pots

, with blossom opening so much later, hopefully there’s less risk of the cold weather returning and ruining the flowers, as fruit trees are most susceptible to damage at blossom time.Days are longer and brighter, but there’s still a risk of frost. I keep a close

In those wonderful James Herriot stories, there is a woman called Mrs Pumphrey, whose spoilt dog is known as  ‘flop-bot’. With a name like that, there is no need for a description. When a tray of seedlings suffers with the horticultural equivalent, and the whole lot keels over in...