Many years ago, on a hot January day, before I had roses of my own or had learnt how to prune them, I was fascinated to spend some time in the garden with my elderly aunt, who showed me how to ‘summer prune’ roses. This term refers to the practice of ‘extreme’ deadheading, which gives the rose a boost of vigour, and brings on a new flush of flowers.

My aunt had learnt the practice from her mother, and she passed it on to me (and others). She loved her garden, and I have some treasured plants in my own garden which had their origins in hers. This is one of the wonderful things about gardening – it is not just a pastime or hobby. It can be a memorial, a means of growing your own food, a means of relaxing, a record of a journey, and an object of love and wonder. Happy gardening!

Kathy