CROCUS AND CATKINS

I'm still waiting for the snowdrops to really get going, but nevertheless there is a post to be done, and I've managed to find Six things to share with you.

These lovely crocus appeared this week.  I love how they are so pale, almost silvery, on the outside and this pretty purple on the inside.  

There are snowdrops all over the garden.  They grow like weeds here (apologies to those of you who find them difficult to grow).  The doubles are out, but the singles are still closed up. 

Looking at them in more detail is fascinating as they vary so much.

As I was walking around looking at snowdrops, I was followed.  He was obviously trying to make it into Six on Saturday by showing off his tree climbing skills.  Since this blog is supposed to feature the horticultural rather than the animal, I feel the need to point out that this is an ornamental cherry.

This cyclamen is a lovely shocking pink, but it's not looking very healthy.  There are plenty of flowers but just the one leaf.

Later on today I plan to visit a garden with lots of different snowdrops, and maybe buy something to add to the garden.  

This week I've made a start on cutting back the Long Border and shredding it to add to the compost heap.

BEFORE

AFTER

But lets look for some signs of Spring.  The catkins are out on the hazel tree. (I assume it's a hazel although please let me know if that seems wrong).

There are yet more signs of Spring over here.  The snowdrops may be taking their time opening, but these tulips (Apricot Pride) seem well underway, pushing up amongst the Iris, which are also putting on lots of new growth. 

That's it for now but see you next week.  Don't forget all the Six on Saturday posts can be found on Garden Ruminations our new home from home thanks to Jim who is caretaking while the Propagator takes a break.