No, not a Jane Austen novel. Early last year a number of wooden 'telegraph' poles, which carry electricity cables to supply our house and other properties in the vicinity, were replaced. I asked the person in charge if I could have them and he duly obliged, leaving them in our neighbouring farmer's field across the road. I bagged four of them and the farmer took a couple for himself. The latter also helpfully conveyed the poles to our property with his tractor. I used some straightaway including cutting one down to use as gate posts for field gates which needed replacing. I can't see them rotting in my lifetime.
I also had three 10 foot lengths lying redundant and decided to finally put them to good use as edging for a flower bed. Along our carport and garage wall is, among a few other shrubs, a climbing rose which I am quite sure is 'R. Compassion'. It reliably flowers each summer, despite the minimal attention it has received.
This bed has been rather neglected. It borders a steep grassy slope which is regularly used to go to-and-throw from the front to the back of the property, especially if using a wheel barrow or driving the garden tractor or other wheeled machinery.
As each year has passed, this area has become increasingly weedy which, when the rose is in full flower, induces a mild sense of shame and I end up going past quicker than I might otherwise would. Its a double shame because this a a particularly sunny spot and is a waste of an opportunity.
Yesterday I cleared the area, including giving the rose a hard pruning. The lengths of telegraph pole were rolled into place to form the edging. Then a deep mulch of compost was spread. I'll leave this for the winter and plant up the revitalised area in the spring and summer. I hope I can then walk by with my head held high and perhaps even linger to admire the flowers.
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| R. 'Compassion'. Image: from the ever-dependable David Austin Roses |
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| The poles range from 10"-12" in diameter and form a sturdy edging to to this south- facing bed. At the top end is a honeysuckle and at the bottom end are more Christmas Box. Part of the climbing rose can also be seen. |
How resourceful to reuse the poles. I'm planning to go to the Rose specialists at Attleborough next week to buy a rose for my garden, in memory of my cousin. I need something "Hardy and reliable". Gill was small of stature, resolutely cheerful, vigorous and hardworking. She brought magic and sparkle, joy and laughter into the room. Generous and loving. Have you any recommendations for a suitable variety, please?
ReplyDeleteHello Ang. For aa rose on its own in a border I would go for a shrub rose. There are lots to choose from and in different colours and shades which might reflect personality traits. Safe bets for reliability and appeal are some well known varieties: 'Constance Spry', 'Buff Beauty' and 'Joie de Vivre'. I am not sure if Peter Beales stock David Austin roses, but a good one is 'Gertrude Jekyll'. This is named after a well known gardener andI think with whom Gill might have shared similar qualities.
DeleteThanks Philip. En route to the rose place now. Will let you know how we get on
DeleteVery resourceful Philip and I also like to see natural materials being used in the garden. They would make great raised beds for vegetables or perennials and shrubs...
ReplyDeleteThanks Dave. I know from your own blog you are a great re-cycler and re-purposer.
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