Gardening – Pathways to heaven
Now that the long hot days of summer are with us, it is time to plan for the new gardening year. New gardens and new planted areas can be considered,
Survival strategies for the summer
As we enter the summer months with the prospect of the longest day coming up fast on June 21, we can observe how the change of seasons brings new colours
After 20 years, an Algarve garden designed for drought
Since buying our home in the eastern Algarve, it has been a steep learning curve, but now it is fun to have a garden which tolerates drought. It is also
Orchids and wildflower meadows in the Algarve
Conservation should start at home, but does that mean your home? The recent improved levels of winter rainfall have produced an amazing response from the plants and trees but also
Plant lovers spring into São Brás for big garden party
“This year, more than ever, everyone is talking about plants that need less water” – event organizer Burford Hurry There are at least 1,400 people in the Algarve who think
How do you employ a gardener (or a garden company)
A skilled gardener offers far more than mere watering and weeding – avoid the noisy machines and go for knowledge and experience. What work needs doing? Gardeners, garden companies, and the services
Mediterranean climate zones – the plants of Australia
The Algarve is classified as zone 9/10 in the USDA hardiness designation. This classification is in common with the two mediterranean zones in Australia. Both the south-western (centred on Perth)
Oaks for an Algarve garden
“The best time to plant trees was 20 years ago. The next best time to plant trees is today!” An aristocrat of the woody plant world, oaks are one of
Aloes for Algarve gardens and an Algarve authority on aloes
At this time of year, and going into January and February, aloes really are impressive. These thorny-leafed succulents whose wonderful flaming spears catch the sun and set the garden alight
Launching the new gardening year in style
Recent rainfall has transformed the natural landscape here in the Algarve. Previously, silver, brown and golden yellows were the predominant colours with seed heads and grasses providing movement and interest.