Even though we have experienced some degree of frost this winter, we have managed to have mimosas flowering since January.
The rather robust, fast-growing and large Acacia dealbata, the florists Mimosa quickly makes a tree, too large for most gardens today.
However, with some forethought, it is possible to grow it for a few years at least.
Easily grown from seed, they are members of the pea family, and it is possible to replace them if they become too cumbersome, although I appreciate that this is simply too much for some gardeners.
A rather different and much better alternative in Acacia baileyana ‘Purpurea’.
Smaller growing with extremely fern-like foliage which appears as a frothy, filigree, glaucous mass.
The new shoots are plum-purple, making an intriguing contrast that always attracts attention.
In early spring, it produces golden-yellow Mimosa flowers and, provided the blossoms are pollinated, you will be able to harvest your own seed in late summer.
If you decide to grow some of these, do be aware that not all seedlings will have the desired glaucous cast so harden your heart and discard any that don’t meet the required standard.
Mimosas delight in basking in full sun and they prefer some shelter from cold winds.
However, I have bucked the trend and experimented by planting one on the north side of a south-facing wall, which is sheltered from the worst winds.
At moment, all is well, my plant is thriving and flowering at around 4 feet.
Once it reaches 8 to 9 feet tall, its crown will receive the desired sunlight and provide me with clouds of golden blossom every spring.
As spring arrives there comes a multitude of jobs with it.
Gary has been putting wood chips on the woodland paths, this is a durable material that looks right in its setting and it certainly smartens up the whole area.
Whilst there a couple of days ago I had an idea to prune the Bamboos that populate this garden.
This involves removing any older canes and those that are leaning this way and that.
This means that you only see the good things, hopefully.
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