This is the month for making scrumptious sweet treats, undertaking seasonal sweeping and cleaning, and saying hello to springtime
FEATURE SARA EMSLIE
CELEBRATE spring
The cheery nodding heads of narcissi, commonly referred to as daffodils, with their fresh, delicate scent and varying shades of yellow, are ideal for lifting the mood after the dark winter months. From the intense hues of egg yolk to soft muted lemon, mix up the colours for a display that is full of frivolous seasonal charm.
Cut stems look lovely in antique ceramic jugs, vintage pickling jars or even as short individual flowers displayed in a row of jam jars on a mantelpiece or the centre of a spring table setting. Alternatively, invest in durable, high-quality terracotta pots that will develop a lovely patina over time. They are also resistant to frost and allow roots to breathe while moisture remains in the soil, thanks to the naturally porous surface. Fill with planted bulbs that can be bought from garden centres and burst forth in the early spring weather to add a splash of springtime loveliness.
Varieties such as Narcissus ‘Blushing Lady’ and Narcissus ‘Paper White’ are beautifully fragrant, so place them by the front entrance to greet visitors or update a window box with a few bulbs, keep the window slightly ajar and let the fresh breeze waft in and fill the room with their perfume. Alternatively, bright yellow Narcissus ‘Red Devon’, Narcissus ‘Tête-à-Tête’ and Narcissus ‘Juanita’ will make a striking display in the garden, with a group of pots around the perimeter of the greenhouse, or strategically positioned amongst the flower beds, so their brashness and beauty can be enjoyed from indoors too. Remember, once they have flowered, to deadhead them, leaving the foliage to gradually die back, ready for next year.
Bergs Potter terracotta pots, from £11 for a 10cm diameter pot, available from Nordic Nest and other UK suppliers
REINVIGORATE the senses
Soothe the soul with the warm, intoxicating natural scent of wood with a few dried branches of olive or other garden foliage that has broken and dried out over winter and is suitable to burn. March is a good time to use the last of the winter store of logs, leaving the fireplace area clear and ready to be swept and cleaned. What is more, the gentle heat from a handful of logs in the hearth is often sufficient to allow the heating to be left switched off, freshening up the living room without feeling chilly and filling it with the aroma of woodsmoke.
