The green and rolling countryside of Worcestershire, England, is home to the cider apple orchards which surround the gardens of Pear Tree Cottage. They enjoy a sunny south westerly aspect with sweeping views across to Martley Hillside, Woodbury and Abberley clock tower. The Teme Valley lies just over the hill and, not far away, is the Herefordshire border. Although our climate is temperate, our seasons are often uncertain and always a challenge to a gardener! This began in 2010 & follows the weekly ups and downs of garden work chronicling both successes and failures but, above all, demonstrates the fun enjoyed by three people who regularly garden in all weathers

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21 January 2014

Many hands..................

One empty compost bay

After pruning a shrub rose, a Viburnum Tinus and his favourite conifer, Chris had extra pairs of hands this week - courtesy of Matt and Sarah.  This meant that a whole compost bay was emptied in a single session despite inclement weather. Amazing! The contents were used to mulch borders all round the garden beginning with the lower border and ending with the raspberries.  Because the ground was so very sodden and the compost was heavy, our team of workers carefully laid planks on the grass thus avoiding making damaging ruts on the lawned areas.  This wasn't as straight forward as it sounds as some of the planks were very narrow and as the rain began to fall, they became very slippery.  Despite failing light and worsening weather my team of stalwarts worked on determined to finish the job.  Due to planning commitments involving the other Chris, Head Gardener rather abandoned her team and only appeared on the compost scene towards the end of operations!  Surprisingly the compost was of a good light texture despite all the rain.  We can't wait for better weather and to see the results of all this hard work!

Sarah & Matt

Victory Cottage Pie!

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