Tree's Company: June 16th 2020

Two posts in three days, lucky readers.

The weather is still a bit grey, cool and damp, with fog settling in every evening. I've come to learn that June is always disappointing. We expect too much of it. Although those sods down south seem to be having a better time: I thought I was watching the wrong week's episode of Gardener's World on Friday when I saw Monty Don gloating in his straw hat under a bright blue sky.

Today's post is because we have planted a tree. I've been thinking about doing this for a while and waiting for inspiration, as we don't have room for anything that's going to be huge. We've opted for Amelanchier lamarkii, which goes under the less fussy names of snowy mespilus or juneberry. (Cue one of Mark's favourite jokes: 'I was at school with her (June Berry)').

It looks singularly unimpressive right now. And please ignore the grass which has been too wet to cut ever since the end of No Mow May.

But then these trees were once just as pathetic, and are now sturdy, fruitful apple and pear trees and towering willows (the ones that annoy the neighbours).

So I have every confidence that the little spindle will grow into something impressive. It's supposed to have white blossom, red fruits and attractive autumn colour, according to its sales pitch, but it's quite compact.

Back on the green soapbox

Planting just one tree helps absorb carbon and create cleaner air, enriches the soil and provides shelter and food for small critters, so this is a Good Thing to do.