Abutilon Bella Mixed F1 Hybrid. A half hardy perennial that grows to about 16″. Bella Mix gives a selection of pastel colours blooming continuously. Sow February to April in pots of moist seed compost and cover with a fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Place in a propagator or warm place and keep at a constant temperature of between 20-25. Do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist. Germination will usually takes 21-30 days. When large enough to handle transplant seedlings into 3″ pots. Harden off before planting out after all risk of frost.

There was a beautiful greenfinch hanging in the top branches of the Silver Birch tree this afternoon. With the sun shining behind him he looked almost lime green with a darkish tail. He was singing away, the most lovely song, even though the wind was waving the uppermost branch about so much. We have been told to expect snow in the next few days so I hope he has a warm nest to go home to.

http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/g/greenfinch/index.asp

The bare root roses that I ordered from Harkness have been delivered today. We have ordered some new fence for the garden which should arrive in the next five days or so. I hope that the roses will keep ok until the fence is put up.

http://www.buyfencingdirect.co.uk/search-single-paloma-panel-1.8m-high-glg-622

The Roses are Rosa Bergundy Ice, a scented Floribunda. Rosa Caring for You, a pale pink Hybrid Tea.

Rosa City of London, a deep pink scented Floribunda.

Rosa Compassion, a climbing rose with a strong heady scent. Rosa Belmonte, a perfumed pearly blush bedding rose sold on behalf of the Prince’s Trust.

Rosa Helen Robinson, a deep pink Hybrid Tea. Rosa Susan Daniel, a transluscent apricot blush Floribunda.

http://www.roses.co.uk/acatalog/section_hybridteas.html

Despite the greyness of the day there was plenty of colour and entertainment in the garden this morning as the birds were busy feeding.

Earlier this week I bought a plant for the garden at home. I am planning a few changes for next year and after browsing  the Crocus website bought a Clematis ‘Miss Christine’. It is a scented white flower and I intend to grow it on the outside of the chicken run trellis. I will be able to see it from my office window.

Masses of single white flowers with a delicate pale pink edge appear from late spring to early summer. This lovely montana clematis is named after the youngest daughter of the breeder, Sheila Chapman. It is a vigorous grower and the flowers have a rich, sweet fragrance.