Claret Ash farm has, like most of Australia, been influenced by the poor rainfall for most of the year. Our summer and autumn rains have been well below average which meant that the early crops were very slow to get going. However, since then, the rainfall for July and August has been well above average and despite one of the coldest Augusts for many years, the garden is looking good. The roses look especially healthy and the Chamomile is budding up already as is the Calendula. The tubestock Lavender is displaying plenty of new growth and will be planted out in the next week or so. It is remarkable how a few warm days hasten the growth and lift the spirits of those working in the garden.

Happy gardening!
Jim Mugford