Tree pollarding

It’s the last big job of the season before it’s too cold to get outside. The avenue of beech trees along the railings at the back of the house is getting out of control and there are three large maples near to the front gate which would benefit from a good chop too.

The idea is to take the upper branches back to the main knuckle to promote a dense head of foliage and branches. Pollarding seems quite drastic and certainly makes the garden look bare but is something quite typical in French gardens, and in public spaces, as it can help trees live longer and keep them at a manageable height. The other benefit is the wood that can be taken and stored/seasoned for firewood.

Here are some before photographs. I will post pictures of the trees once they have been done. SCH

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Renovations part three: downstairs guest bathroom

They say it gets worse before it gets better! Who said that?! Dust, dust everywhere and I’m fast losing interest. But there has been progress… the walls are now tile-free and plastered; the floor tiles are all up and the old cement removed ready for the new tiles to go down; the old under-stairs cupboard doors have gone; and the washing machine has been plumbed into its new position under the stairs. Next step sanding and painting. SCH

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Winter preparations

It’s that time of year when everything starts to feel a little sad. The leaves have mostly fallen from the trees and the front of the house looking a little bare after some over-enthusiastic pruning (climbing roses). On the upside its time to plant a variety of spring bulbs in the roundabout, under the trees and in the two containers either side of the side steps – providing hope that spring won’t be too far away!

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Two other great things about this time of year are roaring fires and Christmas preparations. It’s time to collect pine cones, logs and foliage, dig out that ribbon collection and seek inspiration for  making this season’s decorations. SCH

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