"June Journeys: Weathering the Elements at Blair Cottage"

So this blog post is what one would call abit "Higgledy-piggledy", it's a collection of the things that I have been up to, at Blair Cottage during the month of June. 

When you take strong opioids like I do for pain, my mind is very much suffering from what I'd call brain fog and I get very forgetful so please forgive me, when this blog post goes from one date to another. 

I also struggled keeping awake when writing this. Not because I was bored, I love to talk all things plants, but my medication makes me very drowsy, so I'd often find myself slipping in and out of sleep whilst trying to type this post up and this is why I have only just now published it. Again, please forgive me, if it makes absolutely no sense! 

Sunday 22nd June, Oh, what a blustery Sunday it was. Despite the wind whipping around, I found the air pleasantly warm. Perhaps it's the medication I'm on; it does have a way of making me feel a bit toasty even when the weather doesn't quite warrant it. But I won’t delve into the ins and outs of SSRIs or the workings of the body—this is a cozy home and garden blog, not a lecture hall or a pharmacology text!

During this Sunday afternoon, my mum took refuge in my living room, engrossed in a crime documentary on Netflix that I suggested. She was too cold and the wind was annoying her. 

Meanwhile, I was happy in the garden, clad in my trusty shorts and a cheerful bikini top. The wind may have been howling, but I was warmed by the lovely sunshine, which kept popping out from behind the clouds. 

Nothing quite compares to the serenity of my garden, so I settled in for some gentle gardening. My faithful companion, Hamish, joined me as I found solace at my new and charming extendable garden table from Next. 

It’s such a lovely addition, allowing me to sit comfortably while I do a bit of deadheading and planting without aggravating my back. I am usually bending over or crouching down, to do any gardening tasks, and I do hope to get a potting table at some point, but for now my garden dining table works a treat. 

I set about tidying up the plants in my window boxes, deadheading them and then removed a plant which was not doing so well, replacing it with another.

These window box planters were once outside the front of my cottage, but my new windows now come out further than my old previous ones, therefore there is no space for window boxes anymore. Instead I have two square plant pots, on the floor, either side of the front door filled with one of favourite plants, my trusty Dianthus! 

So now these window box planters are in my courtyard garden, against the wall. I personally prefer them here anyway, as it means they don't get destroyed by the wind, they are far more sheltered. 

After doing some light deadheading, sat at the table, I then dove into the delightful task of planting a few gems I picked up from Baytrees previously on the Thursday 12th June.

I know, the little plants had been left far too long, not being planted up, however my back has been horrendous these last few weeks, so the plants I had bought, sadly did remain in their own little pots for quite some time. My gardening had come to a holt. 

That morning of the 12th June started with a sense of hope, but it quickly spiraled into disappointment and tears. I had a face to face appointment that morning with the pain consultant. I walked into my hospital appointment, heart brimming with anticipation, convinced that, that day would finally bring the relief I’ve been waiting for—my spinal injections. 

Instead, I found myself with a pain consultant, going through the same tedious questions I've answered countless times before, as well as telling me I need to keep more active. 

I broke down in tears, feeling utterly defeated. It’s exhausting to continually relive the trauma of my pain, and truthfully, I was just fed up. My mum, seeing how devastated I was, stepped in to comfort me. In an effort to lift my spirits, she drove us to Baytrees afterward. Although my physical pain was obviously still present, going to one of my favourite garden centres did brighten my spirits. 

I entered into a zone of a zen like state and took my time wandering around the plants. Can you believe I snagged some beautiful bedding plants for I think just £1.58? I say 'think', because I actually cannot remember the exact price, but I do know that all bedding plants were half price and these were only one pound something or other.

I couldn’t resist! I added a splash of colour with Cosmos in the shade Carmine. As well as an Osteospermum, in a beautiful rich dark burgundy shade and then in white also. I must admit, I have a bit of a tongue-twister with that name, so I’ve lovingly dubbed it the Osteoarthritis plant instead. Fitting, considering the state and pain of my spine! 

I also had some cheerful little Geraniums still waiting to be planted, a thoughtful gift from my grandparents, which my mum bought round for me, the previous week, which still desperately needed planting. 

I felt so guilty for keeping the Geraniums in their pots for so long too.  I had quite a few plants to get into the ground, thanks to both my grandparents bounty and my little shopping spree at Baytrees. I managed to get most in, but six little Geraniums remained, forlornly waiting for their turn, as I often tend to overdo it in the garden.

As luck would have it, with my mum’s help that weekend, I could finally get all the plants settled in their new home. While she may not have done any planting herself, (I don't let her do any planting as I am so meticulous in what I do and I have a step by step process that I follow when it comes to putting any plant in) her assistance however was invaluable—she carried my bucket of compost and fetched my bits and bobs while I worked away on the ground.

My grandparents like to pass down their own bounty of plants to give to me. They are extraordinary gardeners, skilled in the art of cuttings. Perhaps one day, I’ll master that craft too, and recall all the plant names without resorting to relying on apps like 'Plant Net'!

Previously on the Sunday 9th June, in the midst of the delightful treasures my grandparents lovingly cultivated for me, one can find a charming array of plants that whisper of quintessentially British gardens. 

Among them, the enchanting Hydrangea catches the eye with its splendid blooms, while the Verbena, one of my absolute favorites, because it buzzes with busy bees and fluttering butterflies, bringing life to my haven. 

I was also given Snapdragons and two varieties of Geraniums—the Bloody Cranes Bill and the French Cranes Bill. Both produce delicate pink flowers, yet each holds its own charm; one stands tall and proud while the other modestly graces the garden with its smaller stature. 

These little Geraniums were the plants left for quite some time though in their own little pots, due to me physically not being able to do anything, especially gardening because of my sciatica pain. 

The main role of the Geranium in my garden, however, is to elegantly fill the empty spaces, cocooning the bare earth beneath a tapestry of leaves and blossoms, leaving no soil exposed.

Since pulling up the Bluebells, I feel that my garden now feels so bare and empty. Hence why I now appreciate plants like the Geranium, which will spread and be suitable ground cover. Every bit of soil I see, I want it hidden. I want plants everywhere. By doing so, this will also hopefully hinder the weeds from growing, and if they do grow, you shan't be seeing them. 

As I gaze upon the bare patches, it becomes clear that I yearn for more floral companions to harmonize with what’s already here in my garden. My mum, ever the supportive parent, did actually turn round and say to me, "gosh it does look very bare now, that the Bluebells have all gone" 

So to me, that's basically giving me the green light, assuring me that a delightful shopping spree for additional plants is in order—it's not just whimsy, but a necessity for a truly vibrant garden.

Among the lush collection are also Coral Bells, whose foliage adds texture, alongside the soothing English Lavender, wafting its calming fragrance through the air. Dahlias also are within the collection, which bloom with their rich colors, further enhancing the beauty of this tranquil retreat. 

Getting a Dahlia from my grandparents is always so exciting because I do not know what colour or shape of flower head, I am going to get. So it is always a lovely surprise, to see what type of Dahlias I'll have bloom. 

There’s even a mystery plant, still only in shoots, that may turn out to be either a Yellow Ox-Eye or a Marsh Helleborine—only time will tell as I watch it unfurl.

In this cottage garden, nature reveals its beauty in every corner, encapsulating the essence of a traditional country garden, where every flower and leaf tells a story waiting to blossom.

The planting on that sun-kissed but rather windy Sunday didn’t cease at just putting in the plants, my grandparents had given to me. 

After the joyful expedition to Baytrees, on the morning of the 12th, I found an array of floral treasures that simply begged to come home with me. My mum had also treated me to gifts too, as she could see how upset I was at my hospital appointment earlier on that morning. 

So as well as getting plants my grandparents gifted me, finally into the ground, I then added to that collection, with the haul from Baytrees, planting them all that Sunday afternoon. 

As I said earlier, it was windy, so my mum took refuge in the living room, and left me too it. I did not mind. I live alone, so what's a few more hours by myself, titivating and planting, in abit of peace and quiet.

Among my charming haul from Baytrees were two Coleus plants, their rich burgundy foliage brimming with character, alongside two Scabious in the enchanting hues of Butterfly Blue and Walberton’s Pink Mist. The very names evoke images of fluttering bees and butterflies, and indeed, the lively hum of bees serenaded me as I browsed the vibrant selection whilst still in Baytrees, so how could I resist? These lovely perennials were destined for my garden!

To complement the striking Coleus, I chose a Cirsium—a splendid tall perennial with remarkable dark burgundy thistle-like blooms. I had already envisioned my quaint pot (now clear of the Bluebells) adorned with these vibrant shades, a true testament to the harmony of nature's palette.

Whenever I go to Baytrees, or in fact any gardening centre, I am always drawn to the 'sick sale' section, affectionately dubbed the 'A&E' of gardening. It never ceases to amaze me the treasures hidden within! From this charming nook, I selected a lovely Hebe, another striking blue plant that adds a splash of colour while delighting my buzzing friends. I also brought home a small reed mace, from the sick sale, perfect for my tranquil little pond water feature. 

Similarly, the Alpine sale was too lovely to ignore, with tempting offers whispering my name. If I recall I think it was all Alpines 3 for £12.99.

I found a Primula Capitata Noverna, a slender plant showcasing delicate flower heads in beautiful shades of blue and purple, reminiscent of country lanes in full bloom. Then additionally, I chose a Campanula and its hybrid cousin, Campanula x haylodgensis, both known as Bellflowers, bursting forth with their purple elegance. 

To round off my Baytrees escapade, I also added more oxygenator plants for my beloved pond, ensuring it remains a serene oasis for both flora and fauna. Indeed, it was a bountiful shopping spree, filled with floral delights.

Yet, the joy of planting all these treasures, along with the plants gifted to me by my cherished grandparents, left me quite weary by the day’s end. 

The warmth of the sun, coupled with the weight of my medication, led to a feeling of exhaustion, nausea and my back ached from the day’s labor. 

Consequently, I then had to seek my own refuge nestled on the sofa in my garden, with a hot water bottle cradling my back. 

Ah, the labor of gardening is indeed a noble pursuit, and as a perfectionist at heart, I nurture each plant with love and care. Each moment spent in the garden, despite the challenges, is a step closer to creating my quintessentially British country garden, a serene retreat bursting with beauty and life. 

I’m pleased to report that every last plant is now nestled snug in the soil! 

As the sun dipped low in the sky, still present but hiding behind the clouds, the gentle breeze seemed to hush, wrapping everything in a soft embrace. The warmth lingered in the air, even as the sun began to set. This is usually one of my favourite times of the day, when I can sit on the sofa, and try to relax with the animals and nature around me. 

There’s a certain magic to this time of day in my little garden sanctuary. I relish the view of the sun slipping below the horizon, knowing that the patio and the charming nook at the bottom of the garden still soak up those final rays, warming the flowers and leaves one last time before nightfall.

Hamish lay comfortably on his rug on the lush grass, snuggled up warm at the top of my garden. He was covered over, because at this time of the day 'dusk' the sun slips behind the tall Ash tree, leaving him in its cool shade.

I settled on the garden sofa with Clara Bell, enjoying the serenity of the garden. My mum, decided to pause the last episode of the crime documentary I had recommended. She promised to catch the thrilling conclusion next time she visited. I couldn’t understand how she could resist! The suspense would certainly have me on the edge of my seat. It was nice for her to join me though, as she said she felt guilty just sitting inside watching television, whilst I was at work, gardening. 

Amidst our cozy gathering, a lovely butterfly fluttered by, its delicate wings catching the fading sunlight. It floated gracefully around us, stealing a moment to bask in the soft glow, adding an extra touch of beauty to our enchanting evening in the garden.

On Thursday 26th June it was time to get my swimming pool finally out! Although we have had some rainy and windy days this month, I felt that it was time to get my pool out, because when it's a sunny hot day, the best way to relax and cool off is within the water. I think we'll have more sunny days in comparison to the rain or windy days anyway, (hopefully) this summer. So equipped with my trusty manual pump, I got from Amazon, I set about getting the pool inflated. 

I purchased it from Amazon, a while back and my mum and I took a delightful dip, when the sun was shining, though it did cloud over later—which was a pity. Floating in the pool however was a delightful relief for my back and sciatic nerve, even with the hazy clouds.

I reminded my mum to bring my inflatable ring and lilo which I thought was in what I call my 'swimming costume bag' however when my mum took it round to Blair Cottage, all that was in there was this green lilo, from Bulgaria and then lots and lots of swimming costumes. I'm not sure how I've accumulated so many swimming costumes over the years, ha! 

I yearn to soak up the sun and float serenely on the water, surrounded by my vibrant flowers, buzzing wildlife, and the gentle bubbling of my pond feature nearby.  This is why I decided to set up my pool in this area of my garden. 

Also on this Thursday evening, I ventured back out into my garden and lovingly cut some sweet peas too. 

The enchanting fragrance of sweet peas has always captivated me, and I had been eagerly awaiting their bloom, yearning to pluck them and display their delicate beauty in a charming vase in my living room. 

Now, as I glance around my garden, I’m delighted to see that a fresh abundance has blossomed in vibrant hues. The beauty of sweet peas lies not only in their graceful appearance but also in the delightful reward of cutting them; the more you snip, the more they flourish. 

Their scent is simply divine—imagine a perfume that captures the essence of these lovely blooms! If anyone has stumbled upon a fragrance that echoes their sweet notes, I would be thrilled to discover it.

In my heart, I feel that the fragrance of sweet peas is ranked highly up there, with that of a rose, both of them being quintessential garden treasures, steeped in the charm of cottage living and the essence of British gardens. I simply adore them!

Here’s hoping for the rest of June and July, filled with sunshine, with just the right amount of warmth! I don't have any gardening tasks lined up: all the plants are in their rightful places. 

Perhaps I’ll just need to do a bit of deadheading and I'm sure my mum will trim the grass, but mostly, I plan to unwind in my pool, basking in the sun and perhaps sneaking a snooze on my garden sofa. It’s so comfortable and sturdy—a perfect spot for a peaceful rest.

And with the little table that came with the garden furniture set, my mum and I often share light nibbles, a nice chilled bottle of white wine (off course) or a meal amidst the blooms, with the sweet melodies of the birds serenading us. 

It truly is bliss—a little sanctuary of mine. 

Warmly,  Lindsay Blair

Tuesday 24th June 2025