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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30 September 2019

Beginners Luck at Malvern Autumn Show

Papyrus cyperus haspen
Rabbit's Foot Fern ( Davallia fajeensis)
Pelargonium L'Elegance

We decided to have a go at Malvern this year.  Ideas above my station? It felt like it.  I scrutinised the schedule and thought very hard.  How could we possibly get that Pelargonium over to Malvern? 4 feet of the most fragile, delicate and brittle trailing Pelargonium ever grown. I decided against even trying.  Chris was quite outspoken saying that if it meant him carrying it every step of the way, it was going.  Trouble was, he thought I meant the Spring show not last Friday!!  True to his word he sneaked away from his job for a few hours and we set off with the whole plant on its stand but leaning dangerously on only 2 legs with Chris holding it all together! The boot was full of plants and flower arrangements and I had another Papyrus between my feet. There was no room to sit in the front - only enough room for Al to drive!

Chris doing a balancing act en route
Garden flower arrangement
 We set off with much trepidation.

When we arrived and saw the size of the tent and number of tables, I was immediately overawed.  Still, no going back now.  A friendly steward issued my competitor number and entry cards. Having found the right tables, Chris and Al carried in the exhibits and stood them all in place.  A tad more titivating and that was it.  No news til Sunday - or so we thought.  The first surprise was a post on Facebook showing that the Pelargonium had won 1st!! At the time all three of us were having a bonfire and really couldn't believe it!

On Sunday, we set off in great excitement.  I could hardly wait to see a coveted red and gold prize card.  Imagine (if you can) my shock at finding 3 more!! The Rabbit's Foot Fern, the Papyrus and the arrangement of cut garden flowers had all won 1sts!!  If ever there was a cause for celebration - that was it!!  We'd already opened a bottle of fizz upon learning of the first win.  Finding three more the following day...........................we're still coming back down to earth!! 

We also made Worcester News: Success at Malvern

Gardening really can be full of the biggest surprises!

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