Garden labelling sorted!

It’s time to start sowing seeds for planting out when the weather warms up, and I’m impressed with my new Brother garden labeller. It’s light, easy to use, the adhesive labels are beautifully clear and - big plus! - weather-resistant. They can go either directly on the pots and seed trays, or be stuck on plastic markers to be transferred when the seedlings need potting on. I’m trialling tomato seeds in some SilvaGrow peatfree compost to see how they compare with those grown in standard compost from the garden centre, so it’s vital there’s no confusion.  (They’ve just gone into the propagator – there’ll be an update on the result.)

The labeller is a Brother GL-H105, and I can already see many other uses for the labels: on office files and boxes, on plugs, and also for identifying food in the freezer. Plus the included guide says iron-on name tapes are available.  

http://www.brother.co.uk/labelling/garden-and-horticulture

http://www.sylvagrow.co.uk

Spring is on its way

The sun tempted me out in the garden to clear away the last of the fallen leaves – and how wonderful to see signs of spring after the cold, grey winter weather.

Despite the recent heavy frosts,  the camellia buds are swelling, and on top of one of the bushes, some are actually in full bloom.

Under the oak tree, the first snowdrops have appeared.

Nearby, a cluster of tiny snowdrops has emerged between the brick paving. Not sure how it got there – squirrels perhaps?

And keeping me company all afternoon, a very bold robin who seemed delighted to have some help in his quest for food.

Note: The Camellia Show at Chiswick House and Gardens runs from Feb 28 to March 29, 2015. http://www.chgt.org.uk/?PageID=560