8 min recording bird species in the garden... It's impossible to describe how loud the bird noise is right now 😍. We get species not seen anywhere else on the surrounding farmland. The habit we've created and the ponds we built have paid dividends 👏👏. We do not feed them. #nature #climatecrisis

#EastYorkshire Almonds looking good this year 😍

We've had about 22 active House Martin nests this year (29 6yrs ago). Numbers of swallows & swifts are very low this year... So are the flying insects 🤔. There has been a shortage of mud for nest building, I'm thinking of making a load of concrete starter nests for next year... Poor little buggers.

I've been collecting left over timber from fencing jobs we've undertaken over the past 18mths. Made an extension to the outdoor seating area, it allows us to get even closer to the wildlife in the garden ❤️ Fun little project whilst I'm recovering from shoulder surgery... Yes Liz told me off 😝

Times that will always break our hearts 💔🫂

My shadow ❤️

Digging fence posts solo in 30°c... What it's like being skint and taking on jobs best left to a younger generation 🙄. Desperately trying to put some copper in the bank prior to my shoulder operation on 10th July. #fucked #justshootme

We have a self seeded common spotted orchid in the garden... I'm buzzing 😍 Stock image below.

Anyone got a pigeon problem 😍

5 minutes of bird recording in the garden... If you build it they will come 😍 #nature #wildlife #climatecrisis

King's spear" (Asphodeline lutea) is my new favourite plant. Every part is edible, easy to grow and divides easily. Looking forward to eating some of it next year, it's still only a young plant ATM. The flowers are insect friendly and stunning ☺️

Honeyberries (Haskap berries), nutrient-dense superfruits packed with high levels of anthocyanins, antioxidants, and vitamin C, surpassing blueberries in nutritional value. Cardiovascular health, enhanced brain function, reduced inflammation, better eye health, potential cancer-fighting properties.

California Lilac (Ceanothus spp.) It is a drought-tolerant, nitrogen-fixing shrub that supports local ecosystems by attracting pollinators. Roots & bark used for supporting lymphatic health and acting as a mild sedative, while its soap-like properties were used on the skin.

Sambucus nigra (European black elder), potent antioxidant-rich botanical. Used to boost immunity, manage cold & flu symptoms. Berries & flowers are high in flavonoids, which help reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and manage blood sugar. It is primarily used in syrups, teas, and supplements

Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum), medicinal herb known for its high tannin content, acting as a potent astringent, anti-inflammatory, & antioxidant. It is commonly used to treat diarrhea, sore throats, wounds, stomach ulcers, also aiding in reducing inflammation of the liver, kidneys, and bladder

Common hollyhock (Alcea rosea), medicinal plant used for its high mucilage content to soothe inflammation in the respiratory, digestive, and urinary systems. Leaves, roots & flowers utilized to relieve sore throats, coughs, constipation, & stomach ulcers, also offering antiseptic properties for skin

Red Campion (Silene dioica), used in herbal medicine for its saponin-rich, soapy sap, has mild anti-inflammatory & antiseptic properties, applied to wounds, rashes, sores. Historically, used to treat internal bleeding, kidney issues & skin issues like warts. Edible, nutritious plant when cooked.

Woodland forget-me-not (Myosotis sylvatica), used in traditional herbalism for respiratory issues, such as soothing coughs and asthma, and as a topical astringent for minor wounds. Not recommended for ingestion due to containing toxic compounds that can damage the liver, favoring external use only.

Actinidia chinensis (commonly known as gold or yellow kiwifruit) is a nutrient-dense fruit offering significant health benefits, particularly regarding immune support, digestive health, and cardiovascular wellness.

Nepeta × faassenii (Faassen's catmint) is a popular garden hybrid that shares many of the aromatic, medicinal properties of its relative, Nepeta cataria (common catnip). While less potent for feline stimulation, it is widely utilized for its calming, digestive, and culinary benefits in humans.

Sium sisarum (skirret) is a hardy herbaceous perennial root vegetable of the Apiaceae family, native to Asia and cultivated for its sweet, clustered, slender white roots. Popular before potatoes, it tastes like a mix of carrots and parsnips.

Purple toadflax (Linaria purpurea) is traditionally used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and diuretic properties, often applied topically to treat skin irritations, rashes, and hemorrhoids. It is known in folklore for supporting liver function and treating jaundice.

Guelder rose (Viburnum opulus), "cramp bark", medicinal shrub renowned for relieving muscle spasms, particularly menstrual cramps, due to its antispasmodic & sedative properties. Bark & berries are used to treat tension-related pain, support cardiovascular health & provide high doses of vitamin C

2m away and quite happy having a bath 😍

Square-stalked willowherb (Epilobium tetragonum). Highly regarded in traditional herbal medicine for its medicinal properties, particularly concerning prostate and urinary health. It is a perennial plant often found in damp areas, ditches, and gardens.

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), highly nutritious, rich in vitamins (A, C, K, B) & minerals, reduces inflammation, treat arthritis pain & alleviate allergies. Diuretic, aids in managing blood sugar, supports prostate health, particularly for managing symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

"Tamarisk (Tamarix spp.) is traditionally used for its potential anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties, primarily due to its rich polyphenol content. It is traditionally used for skin conditions, digestive issues like diarrhea, and liver/spleen support."

The garden is alive, whilst some plants have finished flowering many more are awaiting their turn ☺️. The #biodiversity increases year on year as the garden mature, the noise from bird life and native bees is glorious. #gardens #nature #bees #climatecrisis

Garden coming to life 😍

Howdy Ian, just got back from the epic Friday excursion to Harrogate to collect the girls. Fired up the paraffin stove, fires haven't been lit all day so it's "brass monkey's" in the peasant palace. 15kw output will soon fix that 👌. Fire's roaring too, Liz will soon go from blue to pink 🤣