From us to you
Country hedgerows, hungry houseplants and a tongue-twisting challenge
A MOUSE NEEDS A HOUSE
For a family outing in one of London’s most beautiful outdoor spaces, take the children to Bear Snores On, at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Based on the beloved 2005 picture book written by Karma Wilson, this magical adaptation sees a mouse seeking shelter in a cave – but is it already occupied?
✱Until 21 April, openairtheatre.com
Hedgerow heroes
Supporting a huge range of wildlife, the UK’s hedgerows have a major part to play in preserving nature. Not only are they home to countless creatures, they act as a wildlife corridor, and form a barrier to wind and rain, helping to anchor fertile topsoil. Meanwhile, their root systems encourage healthy soil, capturing three times as much carbon. The Soil Association has already planted 2km of hedgerows at Woodoaks Farm in Hertfordshire, with plans for establishing many more.
✱Visit soilassociation.org/support-us
It’s time to start feeding your houseplants to encourage spring growth, advises the RHS. Most won’t tolerate direct sun, so move them out of harm’s way. Website plantsbythere.com delivers houseplants to your door, like this Monstera Monkey Leaf, £22.
On this day in history
15 April 1874. Paris hosted an exhibition of artists at the heart of the Impressionist movement. Joining Renoir, Degas and Monet was Berthe Morisot, flying the flag for women artists and securing her place in art history. One of her most famous oil paintings, Le Berceau, celebrates both the tenderness and intensity of motherhood. It’s currently on display at the Musée d’Orsay in Paris.
