Roses, peonies and visitors!

The garden at Skinners Cottage is in full swing now, although it would appreciate some rain.  

Sarah F-R and her friend Lynne visited on Wednesday, maintaining the recommended social distancing, and the photos below are a mixture of those taken by Sarah and others taken by Ray.  

The rose Graham Thomas is a fabulous one;  we put in a number of plants several years ago in memory of a lovely aunt of Ray's;  her favourite colours were yellow and green and this rose seemed to be entirely appropriate;  it appears to have loved the wet spring and the subsequent sunshine.    It is to the west side of the house and also gets some protection from the prevailing winds.

The apothecary rose is another firm favourite which is lovely now.

Above is Ruby Wedding, a gift from Glenys and Rob Rowe on our Ruby Wedding, is just in bud - here with sisyrinchums (which are such a delicate colour but are everywhere).   Below is Rosemary Ann also a gift from G&R on a special "25th Birthday" !!!!!

Talking of glorious roses, Sarah sent this picture of the rose Buff Beauty in her own garden - which she says has never been so good. 

The foxgloves are popping up all over the place - a great self-seeder as they are easy to remove as they pass their best but will produce a dramatic display at this time of year;   

I promised you peonies and we have a lot out now.    Most of these are from Sarah Raven and they include Bowl of Beauty,  Sarah Bernhardt, Monsieur Jules Elie and the latest is "Coral Charm".      

I am sure that everyone's garden is at its best just now, so do not hesitate to share your photos. 

Best wishes

Rosemary and Sarah