October Flowers and Thoughts

Yesterday was spent weeding, planting out and mulching. Whilst doing this I mused on how nature and gardening teaches so much if we only pay it some proper attention. Weeds, for example, those plants we don’t want, that can take over and rampage often with roots so deep, so penetrating, are like those negative thoughts that can take hold and dominate, hiding the delicate beauty of something more tender and ephemeral and positive.

And the need for the right plant in the right conditions too (as I wrangled clay soil!) is so true for us as well; how often have we been in a job that continually requires resolve, your ‘brave pants’, courage and patience to work with people you have nothing in common with or who are not nice to you, for employers who don’t respect you or for a system that puts your health at the bottom of the priorities Every Single Time. The strain that puts on us, those pressures, is like trying to grow a plant in conditions that it doesn’t like. It may survive, but will it thrive? How can it possibly thrive?

I’ve found it difficult to post anything recently - my own wobbly mental health, concern for friends and family struggling too, emotionally and economically, against a back drop of immigrant tragedy, social and racial inequality, government’s ambivalence, bluff and bluster, the dire economic impact of Covid-19, the worsening of the pandemic, the frightening reality of a no deal with Europe, the environmental catastrophe we’re facing...

I’ve found it so difficult to say anything of any value. Flowers seem so irrelevant. And then, yesterday, I remembered, with muddy hands and aching legs, that this business of growing is more than pretty flowers, it is my connection with our natural world that keeps me sane amongst *all that* and a space where I can grow something that will bring joy, will encourage others to slow down, and notice natural beauty. We can get through all these things, and if you’re struggling please try to talk to somebody and get outside, take big lungfulls of fresh air. Both will help.

Big love,
Harriet x

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Love Harriet x

A lovely autumn walk to work to be welcomed with many beautiful roses. Looking good for upcoming weddings, especially if this sunshine sticks around.

Summer Song; this is my favourite rose. It’s an incredible colour, a beautiful shape, has a light scent and makes me smile.