I enjoy gardening in January and February more than any other month. When the air is sharp, the sun is out and the wildlife on Melbourne Pool start their happy chattering and squabbling, I find that there is nothing greater to uplift the spirits or fill one with a sense of energy and purpose.
![](https://www.ticknalllife.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/witch-hazel-1-165x220.jpg)
Gardening is made doubly worthwhile at this time of year because one is momentarily in control of the garden – it will last but a few weeks before the plants once again become the movers and shakers and set a pace too fast to keep up with. That is one reason we open The Dower House Garden in February each year. At this time of year, the garden’s structure can look striking whilst the sparkling colours – snowdrops everywhere, pools of golden aconites, crocus, scilla, iris, early narcissus and more I will have forgotten, soften the view. Coincidentally, daphnes, witch hazels and sarcococca fill the air with scent.
It is a time to relish and rejoice in all that nature provides so that we can lift our spirits.
Come and enjoy it if you can.
The Dower House, Church Square, Melbourne is open for the National Garden Scheme on 15th and 16th February, 10 am – 3.30 pm (gates closing about 4.15 pm). Admission is £8. Children and dogs on leads are welcome and are free of charge.