I am not a natural gardener.  Indeed, I kill things.  Unintentionally yet nevertheless determinedly and resolutely.  My mother’s day plant from my children withered and died within days; every herb I’ve ever owned and valiantly attempted to cultivate has darkened and dried up with alarming speed; even flowers wilt almost as soon as they enter the vicinity of my home.  When Sonny brought home a bean from school earlier this year, I was adamant that I would nurture this thing until it grew big and strong.  I watered it gently every single morning and found new and ingenious ways of propping it up until it grew strong enough to support its own height.  Alas, it never did, despite the chopsticks rammed with unfailing optimism into its soil.  Granted, it still looks green at the moment but it is collapsing in on itself and of no use to anyone.  Yep, I did it again. I should stick to cacti. So, how does one so completely useless at gardening maintain such a space?  Artificial grass is an …

Now that the snow has finally cleared and the weather seems rather milder (though I am currently staring out at a grey and wet landscape, it is indisputably less cold), thoughts turn to making the best use of the garden this spring.  I like to get the children outside as often as possible and find that they thrive in this environment so warm, dry weather is ideal for us all.  This spring, I would like to get a sensory garden going as well as encouraging the children to grow some fruits and vegetables.  I love the idea of them eating homegrown strawberries on bright summer mornings and have had my eye on this little kit from Waitrose for a while now. A relaxed outdoor seating area is something that is high on my wishlist this year; I envisage fabrics and drapes, large beanbags, a hammock, some kind of table to hold books and drinks.  I would love to spend whole days in the garden lounging and reading together, though I’m unsure whether Sonny would be …

Gardening can enhance many different aspects of life for different people; for some, it’s an opportunity to get some fresh air and exercise, others may use it as a social tool (allotments lend themselves to this aspect rather nicely).  In recent years, there has been a lot of talk about encouraging children to grow their own food to educate and promote healthy lifestyle choices; this also comes under the gardening bracket.  Here are three major benefits of gardening: Health benefits The physical health benefits of gardening have been publicised at length for a number of years now, and are just as relevant as ever, while the mental health benefits are lesser known. Gardening is proven to lower stress levels, which can aid sleep, reduce the effects of anxiety and depression and can even help lower the risk of dementia by 36%! Saving money Growing your own fruit, vegetables and herbs can save a lot of money and is also a healthier option as you know exactly what you’re eating.  Cooking from scratch is a great way of …