HYACINTHS IN APRIL 2013

I didn't realise quite how hardy hyacinths can be.  Despite below zero temperatures and protracted periods of snow, the hyacinths I planted late last autumn, October 2012, have not only survived but show signs of being splendid.   I have white ones planted in the trough under my sunny front window (when there is sun) and in a free-standing trough I have all yellow ones planted.  They should look, and smell, lovely when they are in full bloom.



Carnegie - hyacinth

Yellow Queen - hyacinth



Yellow Queen hyacinths in a free-standing trough

The whole garden seems to be warming up now and it's amazing how fast things will grow once the weather gives plants the chance.  I'm actually pleased to say that it keeps raining and rainfall always seems to invigorate plants, far more than tap water.  I believe it is to due with the nitrogen in the rain.

I've done a little trimming with the secateurs.  I pruned the roses several days ago - rather late, I usually do the job in late March but the weather has made me hold back.  Yesterday I took all the dead tips off the Jasmine officinale and it has done remarkably well with only a few inches to snip off here and there.  (I did the same with the Lonicera periclymenum 'Scentsation' the day before).