Erysimum Rysi Copper One of the definitions of a wallflower is that of a shy and awkward person with whom nobody wants to dance: I am sure we have all felt like that at some point in our adolescence.

the first flowers of the year carry a specialness that no other bloom or season can touch. I’ll spend weeks looking for the first snowdrop and then, when I finally find one, I’ll get down on my hands

There comes a time every year, somewhere between the middle of March and the first week of April, when I am possessed by my garden. It runs through my veins like a dancing river, occupies my sleep wit

In the garden, hellebores and snowdrop bulbs are emerging through the wintry ground, while beyond, in borrowed views, dangling catkins and blossom-laden blackthorn branches sway in the hedgerows. Thes

Bulbs planted in autumn come to life now and deliver vibrant bursts of colour – a joy to see after the dark winter months. Daffodils (more on those overleaf) and tulips are enduring symbols of spring

● Pashley Manor Gardens Tulip Festival Easter Monday 21st April – Bank Holiday Monday 5th May, East Sussex Pashley’s annual tulip festival is a riot of elegant planting, with over 48,000 tulip bulbs c