A KIND OF HUSH

LIFE SEEMS to fall into a lull at this time of year. No longer do we have the long, balmy summer evenings, and the energy of autumn diminishes swiftly. Days have more darkness than light, and night seems to last forever. Our urge is to hibernate and eat comfort food.

It has been a year of upheaval – but if there is one thing above all that gardening has taught me, it is the value of patience. Just as a watched pot never boils, neither does an overly minded seedling grow. Yet, take your eye off it for a while and you are greeted with the emergence of something new and glorious. reflection. Combat the winter blues and enjoy a day outside whenever you can. It is not too late to restock pots and containers with winter bedding. There are magical seasonal offerings for the garden. Consider placing winter-flowering perfumed shrubs close to your front door for a lift as you come and go. Sarcococca, with its heady fragrance, is a wonderful choice, or you could plant winter hanging baskets. If nothing else, take a trip to the garden centre – enter the festive mood and treat yourself to a hot chocolate and a mince pie.

I don’t believe in New Year’s resolutions, just resolutions, and this is the period for contemplation. You’ll find me making the most of inclement weather days: reading, studying and planning the year ahead. Allow yourself to dream of brighter days and new beginnings. Above all, have patience.