When I first thought about what mattered to me in my Garden, I realised that planting with a reason went beyond the ‘because I like it’ even if that’s the first consideration. I consider my Garden a place of healing & my sanctuary & so it seemed appropriate to include plants that have herbal or medical uses or are associated with magical protection. Besides the rowan tree, protection comes from my oaks, holly, the apples & ivy in the garden & a slow growing yew.

Hazel is imbued with wisdom and inspiration. There are more than the two entwined in my arch in the garden. Last year there was a dunnock nest within the arch.

I am conscious that the trees will out grow their homes. This is particularly true for my two oaks -one ‘Sessile’ the other “English’ - neither is very big but I’m conscious that the potted one in particular will need rehoming soon.. Oaks are important symbolically e become associated with longevity, strength, stability, endurance, wisdom, power, justice, and honesty.

Most of the ivy now lives creeping over the arbour seat & the fence behind it. Ivy symbolises fidelity and eternal life - it holds tight & remains evergreen. It is surprisingly resilient.