CLEAN UPS AND CACTUS

I really worked hard yesterday and the work was not much fun. In the Spanish oak garden I had to do a major job on the Ficus repens which covers the concrete retaining wall. For the second year in a row it was severely hit by the freeze. Dead stems and crispy leaves covered but protected the underlying new growth. I started with my pruning shears and ended with the weedy whipper. That resulted in everything, including me, covered in debris. Next it was the rake then the blower, followed by the hose to clean everything off and give the plants a much needed drink of water. Wouldn't it be nice to sit down int he shade with a book. Nope-too much to do!

Overwintered in the greenhouse these cactus and agave plants are back outside for the summer. I also decided to move the road runner out here. I'm glad I managed to save the aloe, Aloe saponaria, because all the ones in the ground, except one, died in the freeze. As I was cleaning up the leaves a red stripe ribbon snake slithered out from underneath the rock and quickly retreated. He'd better watch out for that road runner!

Even more potted agaves, cactus and succulents reside on the fireplace where they receive only morning sun. Many cactus would prefer a spot underneath a tree where they get some shade.

And there are more round the front. What did I say about not having so many pots this year. And it is the Austin Cactus and Succulent Society show and sale tomorrow and I'll be there.