SPANISH GARDENS

TEXANS SING IN THE RAIN

2011-05-19T20:32:00.010+02:00

Another garden tour. Another day of getting wet. This must be the wettest spring we have encountered in the great Spanish city of Granada. It poured down today but the 19 Texan horticulture students we guided around gardens in the city were not too upset about getting wet.

After all, at home, they have seen almost no rain since last October. Incredible!

As they paddled around Spain, it was 86 degrees fahrenheit at home in Texas. But did they complain? No! They did not. What a lovely group of people.

We only wish we could have spent more time with them and in better weather.

The party was made up of keen gardeners from Lubbock and those from New Mexico. Many of them are studying horticulture at Texas Tech University.

After leaving our first garden which they described as "delightful" we walked through the Albaicin in Granada, but we all got soaked as the heavens opened.

But they marched on and broke into song. A chorus of "We're Singing in the Rain" lifted the spirits.

Walking through puddles in torrential rain are not the best conditions in which to walk around the gardens, but it does mean that the they are particularly lush at the moment. The plants are enjoying all this water.

Before we know it, we shall be walking around the gardens of Granada in 40 degree heat.

But, whatever the weather, we are here to make sure you have a fun, informed, relaxed and personal guide to the best green spaces in the city of Granada.

E-mail greenspain@live.com if you want to enjoy the gardens with us.

TOURING GRANADA GARDENS - COME RAIN OR SHINE

2011-05-09T17:26:00.011+02:00

Harry and Michael from New York were our latest guests on a tour of some of the best gardens in Granada. They were a little under the weather when we met them at their hotel in the morning and the weather itself was dreadful. The rain fell heavily in the morning but we all bravely made our way up to the Albaicin to begin our tour of the gardens in this fine city.

Saturday may not be the best day to do this as some great gardens are closed at the weekend.

Nevertheless, the guys from New York thoroughly enjoyed the 8 hours of walking Granada saying that they found their hosts to be "knowledgeable, fun and very sympathetic to the fact that they were not feeling particularly well. We've had a wonderful day and seen more of the city of Granada and its gardens than we ever could have seen on our own."

As we tour Granada we always keep our eye out for other sites that may interest our clients. Especially when the rain is pouring. In Spain one can never tell which museums and other places of interest will actually be open when they claim to be. So it was that Harry & Michael got to see the site of the ancient Roman baths and the Casa de los Tiros museum.

As part of our garden tours we also stop off for refreshments at a couple of the best tapas bars in the city. These breaks were much appreciated by all. It allowed us to dry off and have a nice beer, a glass of wine and some free tapas.

The boys enjoyed seeing three of the better gardens that are open at weekends and to compare what grows in this part of Andalucia with what they are used to in their own garden near Albany, upstate New York.

For our part we love meeting keen gardeners from all over the world and having a relaxing and enjoyable day with them in the great city of Granada.

Next up are 18 horticulture students from Texas and a mother and daughter who love gardening at home in South Africa.

We limit our touring parties to no more than 20 as we find more personalised tours to be that much more informative and pleasurable for one and all. We like to talk with, and not shout at, our guests about plants, gardens and Granada.

The good news is that the rain has stopped, sunshine and blue skies have returned and temperatures are now in the late 20's celsius.

HAVE CAKE & EAT IT AT CORTIJO OPAZO

2011-05-04T15:34:00.017+02:00

After many weeks of rain, southern Spain is looking very green. Nowhere more so than the beautiful La Alpujarra countryside. If you haven't been to the diverse villages that make up this vast region, then do so. Soon.

I can heartily recommend a Friday visit to the gardens of Cortijo Opazo (pictured above). Robert and William open their doors each Friday to those who appreciate good gardens.

They have worked hard at creating a truly beautiful garden between Pitres and Portugos. So many plants that you rarely see in Spain. They grow so much of their own food.

Last week they treated us to a wonderful lunch that included a quiche including home grown chives and spinach and dressed with the tops of fennel grown in the garden. That was followed by a wonderful pudding of home made ice cream with rhubarb grown by their own hands.

A delight.

They do not offer to cook lunch for those who wander their garden each Friday. That was our special treat. But you will be offered the chance to purchase plants and sample some lemonade and home made cake. On a recent very wet Friday, nobody came. Now, considering the recent terrible weather, that is understandable. But it means Robert and William have to eat all the cake. And that plays havoc with their trim figures!

It is a wonderful garden in which to sit and enjoy both the stunning views and the perfect planting. Robert and William also sell eggs laid on site - but not by them personally you understand!

Cortijo Opazo has become a popular place to spend a few days and make the most of La Alpujarra. They have very comfortable accommodation there.

The website is www.cortijoopazo.com

ON TOUR IN THE GARDENS OF GRANADA

2011-04-18T15:49:00.009+02:00

It's looking like a busy few weeks of touring the gardens of Granada. We much prefer smaller touring parties as it gives us the opportunity to speak personally to those interested in gardening in Granada and horticulture in Spain. We limit our parties to no more than 20 people. But do enjoy walking around the great gardens of Granada with couples or just a handful of people.

Not for us shouting and holding up umbrellas or handkerchiefs to make sure people do not get lost in the winding streets of the Albaicin quarter. That is so impersonal.

One of us is a very experienced hands on gardener working in gardens throughout the province of Granada. The other is someone who is well read when it comes to the history of the gardens in Granada. The climate here is pretty unique. Very hot in summer. Very cold in winter. We have got to know what grows well and what does not. Right now the Wisteria is in full bloom and the perfume from orange blossom and jasmine is overpowering.

Come walk with us around the gardens of Granada. As you can see others have done in the photographs above. In the next few weeks we will be accompanying a couple from America, a mother and daughter from South Africa and 18 keen horticulture students from Texas.

It's hot and getting hotter so we build in some stop off points for much needed refreshment and free tapas - something else Granada is famous for. E-mail greenspain@live.com

SPRING INTO SPAIN AND TOUR THE GARDENS OF GRANADA

2011-03-25T19:19:00.013+01:00

The skies in Andalucia are blue. The glorious city of Granada is coming alive now that winter is behind us. It's spring in Spain.

It is the perfect time to tour the gardens of Granada. And you can do that with us. We have already taken bookings for May. A party of 18 horticulture students from Texas and two keen gardeners from South Africa. All will be escorted around both the well known, and the hidden gardens of Granada.

We prefer to escort smaller parties as it allows us to talk one on one with the individuals. There's no fun in shouting out the information we provide. The history of a garden. It's design and planting. The aspects that are unique to one particular garden.

The information gets across better when we are able to speak to a small, select and interested crowd. That's what happened last year when we met up with a lovely group of gardeners from Australia.

There is lots of interest in the gardens of Spain from all over the world. That's why we are producing a book on the 'Gardens of Andalucia' and that is why we offer our services as personal, friendly, informal guides around the gardens of Granada.

E-mail greenspain@live.com if you are interested in joining us in the splendour of the gardens of Granada.

IN THE NIGHT GARDEN

2010-08-13T13:41:00.004+02:00

On a night when all eyes were skywards for a meteoric display, I found myself in the perfect location for star gazing. Cortijo Opazo is just outside Pitres, up high in the ever glorious La Alpujarra. If only I could take the winter cold I would live in this beautiful part of Spain.

As it was, last night, I went up there to cool down. A lovely evening of music set in the gorgeous gardens created by Robert and William.

Musicians came from near and far to perform and a nice mixture of Spanish locals and British residents sat back and enjoyed the delightful repertoire. How could an evening of music in such a relaxing and friendly setting fail to impress?

I was struck by the nice mix of spectators. All ages and most nationalities. Even a dangerous looking spider turned up to show off. I didn't get too close as I was reliably informed this guest had a bite even more memorable than its appearance.

Now if you haven't been to La Alpujarra in your lifetime; well, you haven't lived. And if you have been up there, but not yet been to an open day at Cortijo Opazo; i suggest you make a note to do so. The garden is open Fridays.

You'll need time to enjoy not just this garden but all the delights that are on offer locally. So stay here. Cortijo Opazo has splendid rooms for you to stay in.

The website is www.cortijoopazo.com where you can follow the progress of the garden. Keep up to date with forthcoming attractions, by following the boys via www.twitter.com/cortijoopazo

CORTIJO OPAZO, PITRES, LA ALPUJARRA - GARDEN OPEN FRIDAYS

2010-06-15T09:20:00.024+02:00

Last Friday i put down my trowel and went to visit Robert and William at www.cortijoopazo.com They are just outside Pitres in the scenic La Alpujarra region of Granada province. Pitres is lovely.

Even lovelier is the garden the boys have created over the past six years. Stunning. Natural. Delightful on the eye.

Now you can visit the garden any Friday morning. William and Robert have opened up the garden for visits from 10am each Friday. No entrance fee, though donation envelopes are available. Visits on other days are possible by private, advance arrangement (see below for contact details).

Located at 1250 metres above sea level, this is no easy place to garden. And yet the guys have created a superb cottage like garden where some plants i never thought would flourish in such a location, are doing just that.

La Alpujarra is one of my favourite places to visit. I shall never tire of wandering the many mountain towns and villages. The people are so genuine.

The climate in La Alpujarra is challenging for anyone wanting to create a garden.

Robert and William began planting the 1.2 hectares of land in June 2004. You can read a stage by stage progress report on their garden by clicking on http://bit.ly/bLphSR

Cortijo Opazo has two well equipped apartments to rent. If you want to stay in what is often called 'real Spain'; well waking up here is as authentic as Spain can be. You will walk out into a beautiful garden located in the most picturesque surroundings.

Maps are provided and you can ramble along the paths that allow you to admire the planting up close and personal. The paths also take you to the vegetable garden where i was pleasantly surprised to see passion fruit growing. Surprised because winter temperatures here can dip well below zero. It was also good to see rhubarb thriving.

The garden is a tribute to the hard work put in by Robert and William and their determination to create a corner of sustainable tourism is to be commended.

Don't leave without buying some home produced eggs. I bought a dozen and now, having consumed the lot each morning for breakfast; i wish i had bought many more.

Allow the full morning to enjoy the garden and to chat with Robert and William. Then go for a walk in the beautiful countryside. Breath in the fresh air and visit Pitres for shopping or lunch. A lovely day out. Safe to say i shall be returning to Cortijo Opazo.

For more details regarding gardening opening hours, or availability of the apartments, either e-mail info@cortijoopazo.com

THE GLORY OF MY PLANTS IN SPAIN

2010-06-08T16:35:00.017+02:00

Here are photographs taken of my plants on a sunny roof terrace. The glorious Morning Glory is at its best right now. With its deep blue flowers, it grows in Spain alongside roads. This one was grown from a small cutting taken from one such overhanging roadside specimen. It's beautiful.
As is the smell from a Jasmine growing in a pot on my smaller terrace. I just put my head into the white flowers and the aroma is overpowering. In a good way, of course. Close to the Jasmine is the ornamental Pomegranate (the symbol of the city of Granada). With its bright orange flowers, set against the backdrop of the historic Mondújar church, its grown fast since i planted it a couple of years ago. I suspect an even larger pot will be required in the coming months.

The hardy Oleanders are blooming in various colours. Also my various specimens of one of my favourite plants, Aeonium are doing well. Enjoying as they are the partial shade from the temperatures that have reached 35 celsius this week. That's all about to change again as temperatures are forecast to drop to a high of only 19 celsius on June 9th.

I'm often asked why the plants do so well despite the vast swings in temperatures, occasional strong winds and the heavy rains of last winter. The answer is care. You can't take your eye off your plants for one day here in Granada province. The killer is often not the variety of temperatures but those strong winds that come in the night. They can often destroy the more fragile specimens in minutes.

Many people living in Spain are not able to tend their gardens and plants daily. So if you require a creative gardener in the province of Granada, or simply someone to tend and water your plants in your absence, do contact me via greenspain@live.com

WILD THING

2010-05-23T12:20:00.011+02:00

It's at this time of year that i most enjoy my walks in the country. The wild flowers are spectacular this spring. Perhaps because of the three months of rain we had in winter. The flowers are many, varied and colourful.

Admire the photographs i took on my recent walks.

CÓRDOBA PATIO FESTIVAL - MAY 5-16th

2010-05-04T09:14:00.007+02:00

It's that time again. The patio festival in Córdoba dates back to 1918. Go to the splendid city of Córdoba and soak in the display of patios on show. More geraniums than you will see anywhere at the same time. All competing for the top prize and there to be viewed by one and all. Go there and marvel at the vivid display of colour and creativity. Córdoba is a must visit place at any time of the year, but never more so than during Los Patios.

The 2010 May Patios Festival in Córdoba takes place from the 5th to the 16th of May. The patios have strict opening hours. They close between the hours of 2pm until 7pm in the evening. The patios are open from Sunday to Thursday from 11am to 2pm and from 7pm to 11pm; and Friday and Saturday from 11am to 2pm and from 7pm to 12am.

It can get very warm in Córdoba at this time of the year so you may wish to seek shade during the day. In the evenings, particularly on Saturday, the streets of Córdoba are lively with singing and dancing.

The first time i went to the Patio festival I went with a Spanish friend. After seeing three patios he said: "come on then, you've seen one, you've seem them all." To his non gardening eye, maybe. But not to anyone who will appreciate the work that goes in to creating these pretty patios. I'm not into geraniums and you do overdose on geraniums when visiting the patios. But there is plenty more to see.

Go to Córdoba and savour some perfect patios.

A NEW BOOK - GARDENS OF ANDALUCIA ORDER IT NOW

2010-04-17T16:20:00.015+02:00

A new book, "Gardens of Andalucia" will be published December 1st 2010 by www.guiribooks.blogspot.com You can pre-order your signed copy now, without any financial outlay, by e-mailing editorialguiri@hotmail.com
The book will include features on public gardens in Malaga, Granada, Córdoba, Cádiz and other locations in Andalucia. It will cover both public gardens, such as the Generalife at the Alhambra Palace in Granada and Viana Palace in Córdoba. It will also feature private gardens created by residents throughout the region. The book will tell you what grows best in each province and advise you on what to plant and how best to look after your Spanish garden, terrace or patio. We will also feature some of the best garden centres. The book will include superb photographs.

The book will be a must have pocket/handbag sized guide for all keen gardeners living in, or visiting the Andalucia area of Spain.

It will cost you just 10 euros or pounds plus postage to anywhere in the world.

Place your order now by e-mail editorialguiri@hotmail.com

DOWN UNDER IN GRANADA GARDENS

2010-04-14T11:23:00.015+02:00

I had a lovely day Sunday in the company of 35 Australian visitors, many of them keen gardeners, from Melbourne. They are on a tour of Spanish gardens thanks to the talented David & Merryle who run http://www.countryfarmperennials.com.au/
Last weekend Granada was the stop off point. On Saturday they toured the Albaicin and visited some beautiful gardens, including Carmen de los Mátires. Of course, they went to the Generalife gardens at the Alhambra Palace.
On Sunday they came to us in the Lecrín Valley. First we took them down to the coast at Motril. Inaki and his family run Casa de los Bates, a fine small hotel and restaurant that looks across to the sea http://www.casadelosbates.com/
Its gardens are splendid and the family continue to renovate them back to their former glory. You can read more about Casa de los Bates via an earlier entry on this site.
Though Spanish, Inaki is an Australian citizen, and he relished displaying his array of Aussie fashion items that still have a place in his wardrobe.
Then to the village of Pinos de Valle and the home of Diana and Richard. A garden i created three years ago from the building rubble left on their land following the construction of their new home. The garden is looking great right now.
The visitors were every bit as interested in Spain as a whole as in my many plants. It was a joy to meet them all and I look forward to their return visit a year from now.

SPANISH GARDEN FOR SALE - WITH 5 BED HOUSE

2010-02-09T17:03:00.008+01:00

For Sale - a superb, large house near Granada.
Located in the pretty Lecrín Valley. A home, village and area that is as authentic Spain as it gets.
In General: A 5 double bedroom home that is full of character. Located in the historic village of Mondujar, 20 minutes south of Granada. Modernised to the highest standard, yet retaining its Andalucian and Moorish charm.
It has five double bedrooms located over three floors. Three of them en-suite. It is a big house. It's an old house. First registered as a dwelling in the year 1801.
Ground Floor: Wide entrance hall with tiled floor. Large open plan and airy Lounge and Dining Room. Floors are tiled with antique tiles. Large wood burning fire and storage cupboards and shelves. Fully fitted, all electric kitchen with oven and hob. Large en suite bedroom the bathroom of which is exquisitely tiled. Bath with shower over and WC and sink. A charming bedroom that is located on the ground floor, with traditional Spanish/Portuguese bed and bedroom furniture.
Also on the ground floor is the pretty Andalucian patio that leads from the lounge. This was designed and created by my good self. Full of character you walk across the patio to enter the adjoining 'Bodega' building. On the lower ground floor of this is the bodega lounge. A superb room with built in wine storage. This is a big lounge which is very cool in summer but easily heated in winter. Above the bodega is a further en suite double bedroom. Here is a large, stand under power shower, toilet and basin. From this bedroom stairs lead to an open sun terrace with views towards the main house and the hills of Mondujar. That is just the ground floor of the main house dealt with.
First Floor: Stairs from the entrance lead to a large floor with open plan lounge and dining room. Wood burning stove. All electric and modern kitchen. Tiled bathroom with bath, shower over, toilet and basin. Views to the Andalucian patio. From the dining room there is a 'juliet' balcony looking towards the patio and bodega. The lounge also boasts a recessed seating area. On this floor there are two large double bedrooms. One with fitted wardrobe. Both have "juliet" balconies with views towards the mountains of Mondujar and the other villages of the Lecrín Valley. This floor is very light and airy and stays cool in summer.
Top Floor: From the first floor the staircase continues to the large open roof terrace. This is vast and enjoys the sunshine from dawn until dusk. Leading off the roof terrace is a superb large bedroom with en suite stand under shower room, toilet, bidet and basin. Again this has been tiled very tastefully. Many windows offer plenty of light in this room and excellent views.
The Location: The property is located in Mondujar, close to the motorway that runs between Granada and Motril - each of which are 20 minutes from your front door. This is the most historic village in the Lecrín Valley. The last Moorish Queen of Spain is buried under the church of Mondujar, just a two minute walk from this house. Opposite the house is a distinctive ceramic museum that is open at weekends and holidays. It is a splendid building. Therefore, the house benefits from having no house opposite, offering clear views of the mountains opposite and is in a tranquil setting.
Nearby: The Alhambra Palace is a 20 minute drive. The beaches of Salobreña and Almuñécar are 30 minutes away. Granada Airport is the same distance.

Property summary: This house has been lovingly and carefully renovated and modernised but, crucially, it retains its historic Andalucian characteristics. The top two floors have been rented out as a separate entity as it has its own secure front door. Summer holiday letting brings in up to 350 Euros per week.
The Lecrín Valley: Ever beautiful, the Lecrín Valley is ideally situated being equidistant from the glorious City of Granada and from the coastal town of Motril. The Valley remains popular and represents everything that is best about the more authentic side of Spain.
The Price: This property is valued at 250.000 Euros. Be quick. Bargains on classic Andalucian properties like this come along rarely.

The Contact: for more photos and information http://www.forsaleinspain.blogspot.com/
or e-mail verninspain@gmail.com or martin@tropicanproperties.com

CASA DE LOS BATES, MOTRIL

2009-10-28T16:28:00.010+01:00

Last weekend I finally got in to see the wonderful gardens of Casa de los Bates in Motril. I had been meaning to visit for years. Ignaki met me and showed me around the splendid house which operates as a small but special hotel. Seven bedrooms, the kind of personal service and attention to detail that hotels used to offer as standard.

But, of course, it was the splendid gardens that i wanted to see most. It took four years for Ignaki, his mother and brothers to renovate house and gardens after they bought the place in 1994. Hard work, but it has paid off. The gardens are glorious. Many of the plants and trees first arrived at the coastal port of Motril centuries ago from Cuba and North America. The water gardens are reminiscent of those at the much more famous Generalife at the Alhambra Palace. It's my sort of garden. Allowed to be itself and not over formal. Lots of nooks and crannies. A gorgeous grotto. There's something to discover and admire around every corner.

The XIX century house itself is of Cuban influence but originally that was only the hunting lodge.

The work goes on to bring the gardens back to their former glory. Where the former bigger palace stood, facing the house, a new construction is underway. It will be built in a style sympathetic to the original palace. It will be the venue for the many weddings that already take place at Casa de los Bates.

I had always believed that the name came from bats (i.e. the house of bats), but the owners tell me it may have actually been named after an English gardener who worked there many years ago. His names was Mr. Bates. As long as nobody is sure about the origins of the name, i will stick with the House of Bats. I can well believe they flew among the high palms and chirimoyas that surround the house. And, come dusk, they still do.

To walk the gardens by yourself will cost 3 euros per person. For a guided tour the charge is 6 Euros (Ignaki is worth every penny as a guide). But to truly enjoy the tranquility and splendour of the place, why not have dinner in the restaurant or stay in one of the comfortable rooms. You can see the house from the coastal road that runs between Salobreña and Motril. Yet, despite how close it is to the beaches of Playa Granada, the house and gardens are so quiet you could hear a bat fly. Indeed i feel sure that, soon after watching a super sunset from the grounds, i heard exactly that.

To contact Case de los Bates, either call (00 34) 958 349 495, e-mail info@casadelosbates.com or go to their website www.casadelosbates.com

THEN & NOW - A SPANISH GARDEN 3 YEARS ON. WHAT A TRANSFORMATION!

2009-09-20T14:35:00.016+02:00

This week I went back to see a garden i created three years ago. Diana & Richard's garden in Pinos de Valle, near Granada, has grown at an astonishing rate (see before and after photos above). Despite the fact they are not resident at the house all year round, the plants and trees have done very well. The level of growth is breathtaking. Diana has some cutting back to do if the garden is not to turn into a living jungle!

The oleander has grown tall, the trees and climbers have blossomed and the roses Diana brought from England clearly love it here. Especially the variety Darcey Bussell.

Two hot summers ago it was very hard work to create the garden from what was a building site. Rubble dug up to make way for a pool was everywhere. I came across a particulary stubborn wire fence that was buried in the land and refused to budge. The soil was poor quality. The builder on site said it was "good campo soil." I suggest he sticks to building houses and does not go into gardening! I enriched the soil with lots and lots of compost and horse manure. Humping all those 70 litre bags of compost on to the site has proved to be worthwhile. The growth would not have been anywhere near as good without it. Any soil needs proper preparation and never more so than in the province of Granada. We have very hot and dry summers and very cold winters. When the rain comes, as it has this month of September, it arrives with persistent storms. Despite the fact that it can rain for seven days in a row; 48 hours later you would not know it had rained at all. The soil soaks it up readily.

All the garden had to begin with was a splendid old Olive tree at its centre. It now has plenty of perrenial friends!

As ever, I am delighted to see that all my hard work has paid off and that the owners, who so wanted a distinctive garden, enjoy it as much as Diana & Richard. It makes all the digging and planting worthwhile.

SNOW, RAIN, STORM & TEMPEST! PROTECT YOUR PLANTS

2009-09-14T16:35:00.005+02:00

In some areas of Spain temperatures plummeted from 36 celsius to just 16 between Friday and Monday. Heavy rain and three day storms heralded an end to the very hot, very long summer. At a higher level, the first snowfall of this coming winter fell on Sunday September 13th (as photographed above). It was a shock to all. Not least the plants. If you live at a high altitude get those plants protected now. Many do not like the sudden drop in temperatures and fluctuations between hot and cold.

If in doubt cover them over or put them in the warmest, most sheltered area of your garden or patio. The sudden cold temperatures may be temporary but it only takes one cold snap to kill plants and trees that you have nurtured for months or years.

As you reach for the quilt or the electric blanket, give a thought to how cold your plants are feeling. Tonight i will be digging out the pyjamas and snuggling under the quilt. But not before i make sure the more vulnerable specimens are also protected.

MY GARDEN TRAVELS OF SPAIN

2009-07-27T18:30:00.007+02:00

Top: fields near the castle once owned by Salvador Dali. Middle: Dali's garden. Bottom: the charming 13th village of Peratallada

When you think of the Costa Brava, do you think of gardens? No? Then think again. On my travels around Spain, admiring public and private gardens, the towns and villages of the northern Costa Brava were a joy to discover. Salvador Dali had a lovely garden to go with his castle at Pubol. The town of Begur has some splendid gardens, as do the medieval villages of the region. The pictures above were taken in the month of April. A lovely month to visit this beautiful part of the Spanish coastline and the attractive inland locations. Plenty of greenery to admire and, as you can see, looking up is a must.

THE NEW BOOK - GARDENS OF ANDALUCIA

2009-07-24T21:04:00.005+02:00

A new book, "Gardens of Andalucia" is well underway. It will be published by www.guiribooks.blogspot.com later in the year and you can pre-order (without any financial outlay) by e-mailing editorialguiri@hotmail.com

It will include features on public gardens in Malaga, Granada, Cordoba and elsewhere in Andalucia. I am also visiting private gardens created by residents throughout the region. The book will tell you what grows best in each province and advise you on what to plant and how best to look after your Spanish garden, terrace or patio. We will also feature some of the best garden centres.

The book will be a must have pocket/handbag sized guide for all keen gardeners living in, or visiting the Andalucia area of Spain.

MY MORNING WALK

2009-07-21T14:04:00.007+02:00

My regular morning walk starts earlier in these hot summer days. Up a mountain before 8am allows me to enjoy the displays of morning glory, just above my home village, whilst it is still cool enough to stand back and admire. This morning i marvelled at the number of almond trees that will soon deliver their produce. I recall seeing them in flower last Spring and breathing in their lovely aroma. Then there is the impressive Agave Americana which stands tall and proud. Behind them is the ruined Castle that once provided the sanctuary for the last Moorish King and Queen of Granada, Boabdil and Morayma. They were driven out of Granada and into the mountains of La Alpujarra. I doubt that, in the rush to escape the invading armies, they had the time i enjoyed this morning. Time to admire all the trees and plants that inland Spain has to offer those willing and able to appreciate what is on our doorstep.

If you want to stay in rooms with those views, and enjoy the same walks as me, go to www.lecrinlet.blogspot.com

WATER WATER EVERYWHERE...

2009-07-20T12:16:00.009+02:00

Watering plants in Spain in summer requires the targeting of those that need most water. Plants need lots of water. Do it yourself or hire a gardener to do so. Then sit back & enjoy.

I am in danger of sounding like a record where the needle has got stuck (that dates me!) but, following some questions i have received regarding watering gardens in Spain; i must get on my soapbox once again.

I have been attending gardens with domestic automatic watering systems. One had been programmed to come on once a week for a few minutes per day. No wonder the plants were wilting in the high temperatures. I watered and watered for 2 hours and, hopefully, the majority of the plants will come back to life. Basic automatic watering sysytems give out so little water as to be useless at this time of the year. They are directionless, so some areas get water and other areas get none. People often programme them for the middle of the day, so ensuring that at least 50% of the water they do spurt out evaporates immediately in the 30-40 celsius heat.

That is why land owners in the campo use large industrial forms of watering systems (as seen in the 2nd picture from the top, above)

Watering in Spain in the summer - my magnificent 7 rules:-

1) Ideally group plants together with regard to which plants need most water. Put those that need lots in the same area and those that need less water side by side.

2) Water first thing in the morning, ideally before sun up, and again at sunset. Water plenty. A quick burst with a hose, a little spray from a watering can or a tea cup full of water is NOT enough. Yes, watering personally takes time but if you care for your plants then water them. It takes me an hour or more, twice a day, to water my own plants. Every day! In this hot weather they should not be left without water for 2 days or more. Plants die quickly without water.

3) Do not rely on automatic watering systems. Most are useless and they cannot automatically alter watering times and quantities depending on the changing weather conditions. They need a human being to do that so you may as well get a human being to water them in the first place.

4) If you are at home in Spain, water the plants personally. However much you think they need, double that estimation.

5) If you are away from your Spanish home for days, weeks, months or years - hire a reliable gardener to water your plants regularly during summer. Pay him or her the the going rate based on their knowledge and experience. After all, if you rely on a watering system and it fails to deliver, you will have to buy new plants. It is cheaper, and much more beneficial to your plants, to hire a real person to water them.

6) Avoid complacency. Would you ignore your children if they needed water or your pets if they required feeding? Don't lay out a fortune on plants, and then install an expensive or inexpensive watering system, and think the job is done. You want someone who loves plants and gardens to water yours. Not a device whose battery could run out anytime!

7) Plants do NOT look after themselves. You liked them enough to buy them and plant them so, i beg you, water them. Care for them and they will reward you a thousand fold.

Lecture over!

BARKING UP A TREE

2009-07-17T14:40:00.017+02:00

Trees in (from top) Osuna, Ecija, Alicante & Alhama de Granada Photos courtesy of www.editorialguiri.blogspot.com

I am in constant awe at some of the trees i see on my travels throughout Spain. Mature trees many of which are shaped superbly. They often have delightful trunks. Many are smooth to touch and breathtaking on the eye. Of course i live in an area where tens of thousands of olive trees dominate the landscape. Many date back centuries. Almond and Orange trees are also plentiful in the Lecrín Valley near Granada.

But all over Spain there are wonderful trees of all kinds, shapes and sizes to see. Stroke the smooth trunks. Look up to see them in all their glory. Take time to stand back and admire. We take so much of what is on our doorstep (wherever that is) for granted. Yesterday, on a journey to the lovely Alhama de Granada, i took in all the splendour of the trees en route and in the gardens around the famous hot water Banos (baths) that are a big draw for tourists.

OLEANDER - AS HARDY AS THEY COME

2009-07-07T15:07:00.005+02:00

Whether in the central reservation of a motorway, or in your own garden, Oleander delivers the goods!

No matter how dry it becomes in Spain during these hot summers, Oleander continues to thrive. Whether it is in your garden, in a public plaza or in the central reservation of Spanish motorways; Oleander is a born survivor.

Whether as a shrub or in tree form, Oleander can be found as far apart as Morocco and China. Also across Asia, in California and throughout the Med.

Oleander is highly toxic. It is one of the most poisonous plants in the world. That's about its only negative characteristic.

It offers glorious displays of colour and can be very scented. I have several growing in pots on my two roof terraces. Many colours, many smells, they are particularly fabulous this year. I do water them and if you have them at home, you should do, if you want them to show themselves at their best. True, they are drought tolerant. They have to be in most locations, but they will reward you if you water them. If you want colour in your garden in Spain, plant some Oleander.

SUNDAY MORNING GARDEN

2009-07-05T12:39:00.012+02:00

I took an hour out this morning to enjoy the roof terraces and patio. Days go much faster in Spain, despite the light, and there is too little time to enjoy the plants in the July sunshine.

Some need protecting from the full on sun. I have covered the superb trailing Ivy's with netting as they get scorched in temperatures touching 40 celsuis.

The morning glory continues to be glorious first thing and the Oleanders have been spectacular this year. Perfumed and double flowers aplenty. I worked in the patio this morning potting and repotting. Adjusting the position of some plants now that the internal courtayrd patio is getting more daytime sun.

One of these days i shall count all the pots that are located in different parts of the house. But not just yet. More watering to do. Just as well Spain does not ban the use of hosepipes. It's bad enough for the plants that too many homeowners do not keep up with the watering when in residence. But then there is always water for the multitude of empty golf courses all over Spain.

WATERING GARDENS IN SPAIN

2009-06-27T13:31:00.007+02:00

When it comes to watering gardens in Spain, nothing beats the personal touch

As i keep telling people with gardens out here; water, water and then water again. Preferably, as i did this morning, before sun up or after sundown. If you water the plants in these temperatures in the middle of the day, the water evaporates immediately.
If your plants need watering, there is no substitute for getting someone reliable to water them on a very regular basis. At least three times a week in the summer. No matter how expensive your automatic watering system is, they do not deliver enough water to the plants. I hate seeing plants wither and die because they are getting too little water in the summer. This morning at dawn i spent one hour watering a clients garden. It has many, many plants. I will be watering there again in two days time.
If you have a garden or green space in Spain that you treasure, please water it aplenty. If you are away often, then you can hire me to water and care for your plants by e-mailing me greenspain@live.com

GOOD MORNING GLORY

2009-06-27T13:06:00.007+02:00

Here are photographs of my larger sunny roof terrace in Andalucia. Taken this morning, you can see the Morning Glory loves its position. It grows out here alongside roads throughout the Lecrín Valley and Granada. Almost like a weed. But Morning Glory is anything but a weed. It's beautiful.

Another photo shows a different aspect of the terrace looking towards a few of the many Oleander that are flowering and including one of the ancient chimney pots i transported from Yorkshire to Spain four years ago.

Then there is the view of the terrace as seen through the fly chains which, at this hot time of the year, are ideal for keeping flies out of rooms. The chains do their job while allowing me to keep a watchful eye on my many plants, trees and pots as temperatures in Granada hot up. We have seen 40 celsius in the city already this past week and July has yet to come.

GARDEN TOURS OF SPAIN

2009-06-24T18:26:00.005+02:00

On a tour in Cordoba. Middle: In Salvador Dali's garden in Pubol. Bottom: On a research mission in Sanlúcar de Barrameda

We now offer personalised tours of both public and private gardens in one area of Andalucia, Spain. Whether there are just two of you, or a coachload, we can guide you to and around the best gardens in the province of Granada.
You may have already seen the most famous public gardens such as the Generalife at the Alhambra Palace. You may wish to see less famous, but equally as beautiful gardens in the province.
Well Granada Gardens can point you in the right direction and visit those gardens with you. I can alert you to the most typical plants of the region and to those that thrive in an area where temperatures can be extreme. In winter the Granada province can be very, very cold. In summer, temperatures exceeding 40 celsius are the norm.
Would you like to visit gardens i have created from scratch? Gardens owned by keen gardeners like you and me. Perhaps you would like to tour a hidden gem? A place that does not have the famous tourist profile of the Generalife. I can organise that for you and accompany you on the visit.
We do not provide transport. We can assist with accommodation. And we know the best places to stop for refreshment, tapas or a little light lunch on our tour of the Spanish gardens of Granada.
E-mail greenspain@live.com
In 2010 we were delighted to welcome a party of 38 keen gardeners from Melbourne in Australia and we very much looking forward to meeting you in the coming months.

REFRESH YOUR SPANISH GARDEN

2009-06-23T03:12:00.005+02:00

I was delighted to view a garden i know well yesterday and see it given a fresh look. Friends Cliff and Liz, whose garden I keep an eye on when they are working overseas. In winter their village is one of the coldest in southern Spain.

Like me, Cliff loves his plants and his gardens are packed with fines specimens from Spain, the UK and Asia. Like so many expats living part time in Spain, he never has enough time in his garden but he has just spent a week moving plants, re-potting, cutting back and planting two new specimens. It has given the lovely garden a breath of fresh air, more light and space and the plants that have been moved will benefit from their new locations.

I will also benefit. Now that Cliff has moved his Nispero tree into more light, the tree is bearing splendid fruit. When i next go to water his plants and look after them during 38 degree heat, the fruit will be ready to eat.

It's never too late to give your Spanish garden a new lease of life.

HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW?

2009-06-17T17:14:00.014+02:00

People are constantly amazed at how fast gardens grow on the Med. Plants seem to leap into life providing, of course, that the land and soil have been prepared well in advance of planting.

I visited one splendid new private garden this week. It is the home of the experienced and trustworthy estate agents Bernard and Martin of www.spaincostatropical.com Their offices, Tropicana Properties, are in Almuñécar in Spain. Their home is between there and neigbouring town Salobreña. Looking across to the sea; the land is steeped and has different levels and lots of nooks and crannies.

The boys have very quickly established a quite splendid and varied garden (see photos). My own garden warming gift to them was one of my favourites, a black bamboo. In no time at all their garden is a picture. It has been achieved with much thought, planning, money and - as with any garden - lots of hard work.

Well done lads!

MONTY DON, THE GARDENS OF GRANADA & CÓRDOBA

2009-05-22T12:29:00.005+02:00

I miss Monty Don on TV. I hope he is recovering and resting well. Here is a link to his visit to my region of Spain. When he came to Granada and Córdoba. Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RO-oKM895k4&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Estylemed%2Eblogspot%2Ecom%2F&feature=player_embedded

IT'S PATIO TIME IN CÓRDOBA

2009-05-15T00:04:00.005+02:00

It's that time again. The patio festival in Córdoba. Go to the splendid city of Córdoba and revel in the display of patios on show. More geraniums than you will see anywhere at the same time. All competing for the top prize and there to be viewed by one and all. Go there and revel in the vivid display of colour and creativity. Córdoba is a must visit place at any time of the year but never more so than during Los Patios.

SPRING BECKONS - TIME FOR ACTION

2009-03-24T20:06:00.007+01:00

Gardens know nothing about worldwide economic recessions.

They will not forgive you should you opt to ignore them now that Spring has arrived here in Spain. If you cut back on looking after your green space in Spain, then you will be cutting back a lot more than dead wood a year from now.

I urge all of you not to make the mistake of ignoring the garden during these difficult times. If you are trying to sell a house here then having a pretty, well maintained garden can make all the difference. If you just want some space in which you can sit back and from which you can derive pleasure; then be sure to add new plants to your garden and keep those you already have in fine health.

CÁRMEN DE LOS MARTIRES GRANADA

2008-10-28T17:24:00.005+01:00

The Generalife gardens at the Alhambra Palace are famous and with good reason. However, just down the road is a hidden gem. Carmen de los Mártires is a short walk from the Generalife and located very close to the ugly Alhambra Palace hotel. I urge anyone visiting Granada, and who is into gardens, to take a stroll to the Carmen de los Mártires. Entrance is free both to the 19th centruy house and the gardens. The views of Granada from the gardens are splendid.

Peacocks will be looking on as you tour the grounds that were so admired by such famous past Granadinos as poet Federico Garcia Lorca and composer Manuel de Falla. There are charming grottoes, bridges, towers and duck ponds. The planting is splendid and very impressive. The wisteria, palms and tree ferns are particularly impressive. If you want to avoid the crowds at the Alhambra Palace, then i urge you to visit this haven of peace set above this excellent city.

SIZE IS NOT EVERYTHING!

2008-09-04T13:27:00.008+02:00

I am just back from visiting the self styled "biggest garden centre in Spain." The Rivera garden centre in Chipiona, south of Jerez de la Frontera, does indeed cover tens of thousands of square metres and on that basis may indeed be the biggest centre in all of Spain. However, it is not the best. It does have some plants priced competitively, and the cafe provides very friendly service and good coffee, but i suspect the much smaller garden centre down the road offers greater quality for us green fingered brigade. That one is certainly prettier.

Meanwhile, lost in the sheer size of Rivera, i found a nice pets section where most animals were in cages large enough for them and where my friend Liz came face to face with a bird whose command of Spanish was almost as good as hers! He says 'Hola' a great deal. On the plus side the layout of the centre is good and spacious and, due to the strong winds this coastline experiences for much of the year, everything in the garden centre is under cover.

What did we buy? Well friend Cliff snapped up some bargains which then had to be crammed in a hire car with four of us for the three and a half hour journey back to the much more mountainous landscape of Granada. He paid 8 Euros for a nice looking Bonsai and was very pleased with an unsual Ficus.

I bought a trailing Ivy for 4 euros in the hope that this one will succeed where others have failed. It is planted indoors in our below ground Bodega lounge where the only light is from a constantly open door. It is my last attempt to have an Ivy creep its way up and around the wall of the room. If this one fails, i will have to think again. After three years gardening in Spain, trial and error still plays its part from time to time.

HOTEL WITH A GARDEN - JEREZ de la FRONTERA

2008-08-31T12:39:00.004+02:00

Anyone who, like me, lives in Andalucia knows that property with a nice garden can be a rare find. The same applies to hotels. I recently downed the secateurs for a couple of days and was fortunate enough to stay at the Hotel Chancilleria in the classy city of Jerez de la Frontera. Jerez is a well to do city that is well worth visiting and taking some time to enjoy. If you need to stay in a comfortable, well run, nicely laid back yet very efficient hotel, then i suggest you visit www.hotelchancilleria.com

It has a lovely walled garden in which, on warm nights, one can dine outside under the stars. It also has that rare thing out here called grass. Yes, it was one of those all too few chances for me to kick off my shoes and walk on lawn. It is amazing how in Spain one can get excited at the feel of grass under foot when, for years, i found cutting the lawn such a boring and time consuming job.

The garden is not the only splendid feature to this family run hotel. A marriage of English and Spanish means that you can communicate here easily in either language. The accommodation is smart, pleasant on the eye, unfussy and everything works. That includes the hotel restaurant, Sabores, where both the service and food were excellent. This hotel really is a 'cut above' the opposition. Congratulations to all involved.

BLOTANICAL

2008-08-12T14:08:00.002+02:00

For those who love gardening, no matter where in the world they live, do make time to visit www.blotanical.com Well done to those who set up the site and a big "hello" to all those who, like me, love gardening.

GOING POTTY

2008-08-08T14:50:00.006+02:00

Unless you have a large budget when buying a property in Spain, you may not be able to own the size of garden you had hoped for. In many areas of Spain gardens are as rare as rain.

The solution is to buy terracota pots from your local garden centre or from market traders who purchase in Morocco and then sell the pots in Spain. I am in regular contact with one excellent supplier of garden pots and exotic, but reasonably priced, garden furniture from Morocco. He is based in the Granada province but, if orders are large, he delivers all over Europe. These are items you would be lucky to find in the UK and if you did, they would be selling for ten times the sum he charges.

Many specimens do well in pots here in Spain - providing you water them. Clearly they are not getting any nutrients from the earth, so it is important to us a quality compost when you plant and to feed them thereafter.

I have only found a handful of plants which do not like being grown in pots. I once heard Monty Don say that he had managed to grow Rosemary in pots in the UK. Well, i have to tell you, every attempt to do so in this corner of Andalucia (an area that blows hot and cold) has failed and i would suggest that if rosemary is your thing, you plant it in soil and not in a pot.

I have myself copious pots (i lost count at 100) filled with a variety of plants that thrive in Spain, as long as they are looked after on a regular basis. Dame de Noche (aka Cestrum Nocturnum) smells wonderful at night and when i get up the next day, the stunning Heavenly Blue variety of Morning Glory (aka Convolvulaceae) is loving every minute of its position and of the bright skies.

So not having lots of outdoor space does not mean you cannot enjoy the experience of growing very different and distinctive plants in Spain.

LOOK AFTER YOUR PLANTS IN SPAIN

2008-08-08T14:02:00.009+02:00

Cacti may be drought tolerant but many plants cannot survive under blue skies without regular water and feeding

After many weeks of red hot temperatures across Spain, i look around me and see so many non drought tolerant plants suffering due to neglect. The fact is that looking after a garden here is just as hard - if not more so - than in the UK. In a country where large areas are suffering from year on year drought, keeping plants alive can be a full time job, especially in the summer.

Too often i come across people who buy lots of plants and trees and then think they will look after themselves. People are often reluctant to pay someone such as I to water the plants on a regular basis - despite the fact that this is a much cheaper option than having to restock plants again because the others have died. It is short sighted to spend hundreds of Euros on plants only to leave them to die.
Of course TV programmes in the UK give viewers the impression that when they leave their Spanish home to go back to the UK, some Spanish neighbour (usually called Paco!) will look after your garden for you for a Euro or in exchange for him taking the fruit from your trees. In my experience, they will not. Indeed i know of one case where asking a local to look after the garden of homeowners who only spend a few weeks per year in Spain, led to the Spanish chappy moving into their home, using it (and abusing it) as those it were his own home!
You are better off hiring a trusted gardener to water and tend the plants all year round. Three times per week in the summer, twice a week in Spring and Autumn and once a week in winter.

GARDEN in SPAIN - TOP TIPS

2008-06-03T14:59:00.006+02:00

I meet many keen gardeners all of whom ask the same question. They admit to being overwhelmed by the grandeur of the public Spanish gardens they visit. They ask me: ‘How can I possibly create a garden in Spain as good as those?’ The answer is that you cannot hope to compete with gardens that have developed over centuries but you can put in place certain measures that will allow your garden to mature before your very eyes.

Research

When you visit public gardens have with you a notepad and pen. Write down the Latin names of those plants and flowers you admire. A discreet pair of secauteurs may also come in handy! Consult an expert as to whether or not they will survive in your own space. Create a garden that suits the size of the area you have to play with. Do not be too ambitious.

Weather

Hot summers can destroy a garden in days and it is wise to create shaded areas that will require less water. If you have no shade, create a garden using drought tolerant specimens, of which there are many in Spain. Strong winds can last for many weeks in areas such as the Costa de la Luz. Wind damages tender plants so protect them the moment a breeze turns into something stronger. Do not work in your garden in the middle of a hot afternoon. Gardening should be a pleasure, not a sticky chore!

New gardens

When planning your Mediterranean garden you need to create the right conditions for the plants you want to use. Make sure you can provide the water they will require. Crucially make sure the soil is good. My maxim is dig, compost, dig, compost, dig, compost and so on. Too often people do not make enough effort to enhance the quality of the soil. There is plenty of natural manure around left behind by horses and mules. Use it on your garden and your plants will reward you."

Tools for the job

Do not buy cheap tools. Study what your Spanish neighbours use for managing their land. They use sturdy gardening tools for a reason. The land can be hard, digging can be tough and, in hot weather, good tools will save you sweat, blood and time.

SPANISH GARDENER READY FOR ACTION

2008-03-25T19:19:00.009+01:00

Winter, Spring, Summer of Fall - all you have to do is call. Whether you live inland or on the coast it is time to pay attention to your garden. Does it need a makeover? Do you want to create a new garden? Do you need someone to maintain an existing garden or patio when you are out of the country? If so, contact me now before i get too busy.

So if you require my experience, knowledge and hands on planting skills, be sure to get in touch via e-mail greenspain@live.com

HUERTO DEL CURA, ELCHE

2008-03-23T08:45:00.006+01:00

On the Costa Blanca, between Santa Pola and Alicante lays a town steeped in history. Elche claims it is the best place to buy shoes in this region and it has over 1000 shoe factories. You will need a good fitting pair to explore a superb garden nearby.

Those who favour palms over fashion go to Elche for one reason. They want to visit the artistic garden called El Huerto del Cura. This is a palm park like no other. It is sub tropical in feel and is a haven of peace in an otherwise busy place. In recent years adverse weather conditions threatened the very survival of the thousand palms on display here. The star of the show is the imposing eight-armed candelabra shaped Imperial Palm Tree. It is around 170 years old and weighs more than 8 tons.

The Huerto del Cura is only one of many such orchards throughout Elche. In total there are over 10.000 palm trees in an area covering three and a half square kilometres; an area known as the Palmera de Elche. It is officially a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is believed that some date palm trees in Elche existed up to 3000 years ago.

If you find yourself in this part of the Costa Blanca, be sure to visit this hidden gem.

MONTY DON & THE GARDENS OF SPAIN

2008-03-10T02:34:00.004+01:00

I'm delighted that good old Monty Don covered both Granada and Cordoba in the latest edition of his excellent series "Around the World in 80 Gardens" (BBC2). Too many people living in Andalucia are blind to the many beautiful gardens open to the public in this area of Spain. Not just the fabulous Generalife at the Alhambra Palace but also splendid gardens in Cordoba, Malaga and Jaen. Features about some of those can be found on this site.

GARDENS OF ANDALUCIA

2007-11-26T18:44:00.000+01:00

Now that the height of the tourist season is over with, it is a good time to tour some of the splendid public gardens that exist in Spain. Do so in the generally sunnier climes of Andalucia and the chances are you will be warmer whilst doing so. Not all of the gardens charge an entrance fee and those that do are a bargain. For example it is possible to view the Generalife Gardens in Granada (pictured above) without also paying to see the adjacent Alhambra Palace.

Some gardeners admit to me that they are overwhelmed by the grandeur of the Spanish gardens they visit. They wonder how they can create a garden in Spain as good as those I show them on my personalised tours. The answer is that you cannot hope to compete with long established gardens but you can learn from them. Carry a notepad and pen with you. Write down the Latin names of those plants and flowers you admire. Do not try to be too ambitious. A garden to impress your friends and enjoy yourself can be constructed without spending a fortune.

As with so many of the gardens open to the public throughout Spain, water is the driving force in the Generalife. The water stairway, known as the staircase of the Lions, leads to the uppermost part of the Generalife. This unique staircase is divided into three flights with circular landings that are separated by small fountains.

A short distance away is the often overlooked Carmen de los Martires. It is home to a wide variety of trees , including large palms. The gardens are vast and surround the splendid villa from which there are magnificent views of the City of Granada. Look out for the charming grotto that is slightly hidden from view at the entrance to the villa.

Another splendid garden is set in an altogether more noisy setting. The Finca de la Concepción gardens sit beside the motorway network that takes you to Malaga Airport. Once you are in the gardens, you hear little or nothing of the constantly busy autovia. These gardens are a tropical paradise for those who love their plants and trees big. In total there are over 800 tropical and subtropical species. There are 100 varieties of palm tree. For me the star attractions at Concepción are the black bamboo (Phyllostachys Nigra) and the monkey puzzle tree (Araucaria Bidwilli Hook). At 45 metres high this is the tallest tree in the province of Malaga."

Meanwhile, in Cordoba you are spoilt for choice when it comes to beautiful gardens. The Viana Palace boasts truly delightful gardens and thirteen interconnected patios. The house dates from the 17^th century and was built on the site of two Roman houses.

I have one final tip when it comes to touring the public gardens of Spain. Have a pair of secauteurs upon your person. They can prove to be very handy for taking cuttings!

PROGRESS IN PINOS del VALLE, LECRIN VALLEY

2007-09-04T15:32:00.002+02:00

The project of creating a garden from scratch in the elevated village of Pinos de Valle in the Lecrin Valley, is now well underway. The house is a new build and, inevitably, this has led to the land resembling a building site. Huge piles of dried concrete mix, bricks, large stones and the assorted mess that comes with such territory.

However, thanks to the work of "Mr. Mattock", and myself, the plot now actually looks like a garden. So far numerous Oleander and box hedging has been planted and shortly they will be accompanied by Roses, Rosemary and Bougainvillea.

As ever in summer, work begins at 6am so that the hardest jobs have been done before the midday heat kicks in. The Jasmine, Ivy and other climbers planted weeks ago have well and truly established themselves and are climbing up the high walls that surround the garden. The garden has been designed and planted in a style that is in keeping with the Moorish traditions of green spaces in the Granada province.

ANOTHER JOB DONE

2007-05-21T15:53:00.004+02:00

And another happy client - which is always my chief concern.

A large area of garden space had been left for me to attend to once the builders had left the building! The property is surrounded by very high walls. Painted white these leant themselves to having plenty of colour set against them (see photos). The large antique Olive Tree was purchased from the coast and transported in the rear of a Peugeot 205 Roland Garros Cabriolet. That made for an interesting drive between Motril and the Lecrin Valley. As did the two tall black bamboos which also went in the back of the open top cabriolet on their journey from Granada. Lots of lavender and box hedging was used to surround the taller plants and trees and the ever impressive red rock was employed to dress the flower beds.

The client says she cried when she first saw the garden. Tears of joy, I am pleased to report. That makes all the humping of many bags of compost, manure and rocks worthwhile.

My next challenge is another bare patch of land in Pinos de Valle. Actually it is two pieces of land. One will be a traditionally Moorish, formal garden. The other an orchard full of local trees such as Orange, Nispero and Pomegranate.

So if you want a garden creating from scratch, or an existing one looked after in the ever increasing hot weather, do get in touch.

e-mail me via greenspain@live.com

CORDOBA PATIO FESTIVAL

2007-04-25T17:14:00.003+02:00

It is that time again. This May will be just like any other in Cordoba. It will be busy with the first tourists of Spring, it will be eventful and it is sure to be a riot of colour. Later in the month those who go weak at the knees over the sight of a horse, myself included incidentally, will pack the streets for the traditional ferria. Flamenco dresses at the ready girls!

Before then those who love flowers will arrive in Cordoba. They come to enjoy the famous patio festival. Pretty town houses located in some of the oldest streets of the City come alive with colourful displays of geraniums, carnations and jasmines. Pots by the hundreds adorn window ledges, staircases and doors. In a very genteel manner, tourists wander from patio to patio to admire the work put in by the owners and to acquire ideas that would enliven their own Andalucian patios.

Homeowners compete for first prize. I don’t know how the judges decide who wins the top accolade. First off, the standard is so high. Secondly, so many of the entrants create patios which, how can I put this delicately?, are not altogether unlike the ones created by their neighbours! Déjà vu is alive and well when touring the patio displays. Or as one Spanish friend put it: "Seen one Cordoban patio, you have seen them all."

Not true, say I. Although I do hope that more originality is on show this time around compared to when I visited last year. Then it seemed to me that Geraniums were everywhere. Don’t get me wrong, for instant Spring colour you cannot beat a geranium, but Andalucians seem obsessed with them. When I try to grow trailing Jasmine from my pots on the front balconies the women of my village tell me off. It should, they insist, be geraniums on show to passers by.

Historically patios were used by Romans to hold meetings – and Cordoba is awash with both history and colour. In the pretty streets that are the venue for the competition, the crowds are growing much faster than the exhibits! By the very nature of the enclosed spaces, it can be difficult to be able to stand back and admire the hard work employed by the owners. I suggest you be patient. The crowds ebb and flow. Wait a while and there will be a lull between tour parties large and small.

The people who create these glorious corners in Cordoba have striven for months to ensure that they can present a patio fit to adorn the cover of a box of chocolates. The wet weather during April will not have helped their cause.
Many of the private, white washed homes in Cordoba are centuries old. They are among the most photographed properties in Andalucia. The scent of lemon and orange blossom fills the air and numerous fountains provide a backdrop of running water. I was pleasantly surprised at how peaceful these streets are, especially when one considers that the hustle and bustle of tourist attractions such as La Mezquita and the wider City are so close by.

At the beginning of each festival patio maps should be available to you via local businesses and in the Tourist Office. Don’t set off on the trail without one as you may not be able to distinguish whether or not you have already seen a particular patio. In Cordoba it really is possible to have too much of a good thing!

Entrance to the various courtyards and patios of the homeowners is free. However, there is always someone sat by the entrance with a gratuity box or hat on show. You are under no pressure to pay but I believe it is a small price to pay for enjoying such colourful displays. I doff my garden hat and salute them all. Their love of patios will ensure that at least one of the more pleasant on the eye of all Spanish traditions will live on and be enjoyed by generations to come.

GENERALIFE GARDENS, ALHAMBRA PALACE, GRANADA

2007-04-10T09:25:00.006+02:00

In no other City that boasts a famous garden can such an attraction have its name pronounced incorrectly as often as that of the Generalife in Granada.

Walk around the most visited tourist attraction in Spain, the Alhambra Palace, and you will hear many visiting nationalities refer to its neighbouring gardens as the "General Life" (as in Wife). In truth it matters little that many visitors get the name wrong (for the record it should be pronounced "Heneral Liffy"). The sheer magic of the gardens is understandable in any language. This is the most serene garden in Spain. A truly splendid place.

As an experienced hands on gardener, I had read much about the Generalife (the Garden of the Architect). Sometimes books exaggerate and reality does not always live up to expectation. Thankfully, when it comes to the Generalife, the opposite is the case. In my experience this is quite possibly the finest garden in the whole of Europe. My first visit there was on a very quiet December day. The coach parties were noticeable by their absence and it felt as though the Generalife was my own garden – so peaceful was it to sit there and marvel at the surroundings. I only wish that it was my own garden and that I had such a superb team of gardeners to manage it!

Of course, the gardens were not at their most colourful on that winter day. Nevertheless the defined lines of the garden were impressive.

How much you enjoy a visit to the Alhambra Palace itself can be dependent on the time of year. In warmer weather, and at the height of the tourist season, it will not always be a pleasant experience. In such circumstances the Generalife manages to provide sanctuary. Despite the crowds and tour parties, the gardens are surprisingly peaceful. It remains a mystery to me how this can be.

The 10 Euro entrance fee that allows you to visit the Alhambra Palace and the Generalife is one of the best tourist bargains available in Europ. If you only want to visit the gardens it will cost you less. The gardens are a slice of horticultural history.

Planned as an agricultural estate and a place in which to relax, the land was originally divided into four large plots of vegetable gardens and orchards with hanging terraces. It actually predates the Nazari palace and was partially finished around 1319.

After the City of Granada was conquered in 1492, the Catholic Monarchs granted custody and use of the estate to a military governor. In 1631 it passed on to the Granada-Venegas family. Following a long legal battle the state won back the land as recently as 1921. The decision was made to incorporate new gardens with the Palace and ten years later work was underway. The Roses and Cypresses that are so prominent today were among the first additions to the new gardens.

In 1951 they were extended and an Islamic garden was created. It consists of a water channel in cruciform; cypress masked walls and passageways. A pergola offers an excellent view of the Palace and the City of Granada. The amphitheatre was added in 1952 and has been the venue for the International Festival of Music and Dance ever since. The "Patio de la Acequia" is a marvellous example of a Riadh, or North African garden. This is the heart of the palace grounds and, on a quiet day, it can prove to be one of the most tranquil places to sit and contemplate. This patio was once totally enclosed. A fire in 1958 destroyed the dwellings that were here and led to excavations that revealed the original, ancient water system that was comprised of twelve spouts. The existing system is a 19^th century creation and is the main artery of the hydraulic system in the gardens. Today the sound of the water that runs down the centre of the patio is very relaxing. The "Patio del Cipres de la Sultana" is named after the great Cypress tree that has now dried up and died. This is a garden for romantics, and has been throughout the history of the Generalife. Much loved by artists throughout the centuries, it is a very intimate patio garden that has a baroque feel to it. The ‘U’ shaped pond contains a Renaissance fountain between two islands that are lined with hedges of myrtle and surrounded by roses and the ever impressive oleander. Water is the driving force in the Generalife. It is everywhere. The water stairway, known as the staircase of the Lions, leads to the uppermost part of the Generalife. This unique staircase is divided into three flights with circular landings that are separated by small fountains. The balustrade consists of lime covered walls and dense vegetation. A mirador was built here in 1836.

Originally these gardens were home to olive groves but today visitors can enjoy a handsome esplanade with more modern gardening on show. For those of us who will never be able to buy a Carmen in Granada, this is as close as we shall get to experiencing the joy of owning such a garden. Parterres of box, magnolias and a variety of deciduous trees ensure that this area has a botanical feel and it is memorable at all times of the year.

Often the last thing a visitor sees before leaving the gardens for the Palace is the Oleander walk. Oleander can look splendid when in flower anywhere. Many of the motorways in the region have fine displays of Oleander in the central reservation – not that many motorists notice! In the gardens it provides an array of colour in spring and early summer. Those seeking shade from the often baking temperatures in Granada also love this sheltered walkway. Look out for one of my personal favourites, the black bamboo.

Walk through the Oleander passageway and it will lead you to the Cypress Walk. Mistaken by some for the more humble garden conifer, the tall and slender Cypress has been here for centuries and is, in my opinion, underrated.

Since that first visit, I have walked around the Generalife at different times of the year. All gardens offer new colour and a different perspective with the changing seasons and this is particularly true in the Generalife. Evening visits are very enjoyable. The sun has cooled off and the larger tour parties have left. The amphitheatre is a big draw each summer when live flamenco and plays are performed there. It is a location that is as designed for entertaining today as it was hundreds of years ago. Live theatre is a bonus. It brings the delights of the garden to a wider public.

Regardless of the weather, the Generalife is a joy. Climate is, of course, crucial to gardening in Spain. In Granada the summers are dry and torrid. The winters are cold and, at other times, torrential rain can fall for many hours. All this makes for frustrating gardening and those employed to care for the Generalife can, like all gardeners, be thrown by a sudden, overnight change in weather conditions. I admire their efforts.

It is beyond doubt that gardening in modern Spain has taken off. For so long land was only considered of use if it could produce food, which is still the case in many areas. However, the number of young Spanish who take time to study plants and trees in the Generalife proves that gardening in Spain is attracting a new generation of enthusiasts. Regardless of age, visitors to the Generalife return home and try to replicate one small detail of what they have seen there. They seek to create their own little slice of the Generalife.

After all, when it comes to gardening, hard work and the pleasure derived from that effort are more important than correctly pronouncing the name of the garden.

I will never tire of walking around the Generalife and should I ever find myself locked in there – accidentally, of course – I will not complain. The charming book "The Alhambra as told to the Children" sums up my feelings about the Generalife. It concludes by saying: "I must go back! I must go back!"

Believe me, I shall.

CORDOBA GARDENS

2007-04-09T15:12:00.004+02:00

Every May those who love flowers go to Cordoba to enjoy the famous patio festival. Pretty town houses in the Jewish quarter come alive with colourful displays of geraniums, carnations and jasmines. Pots by the hundreds adorn window ledges, staircases and doors. In a very genteel manner, tourists wander from patio to patio to admire the work put in by the owners and to acquire ideas that would enliven their own Andalucian patios. Homeowners compete for top prizes.

The gardens of the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos are a delight. The Christian King Alfonso XI built the fortress palace in 1328. It is undeniably impressive and the royal Moorish bathhouse, the Banos-Califales, is worth seeing. However, it is the exterior grounds which are, in my opinion, a must see. All 55.000 square metres of them.

Although they originate from the Christian era, these gardens are typically Moorish in design with ponds, fountains and aromatic plants vying for your attention. It is an exceedingly relaxing place to walk through and peaceful place to sit. Inevitably, at the height of tourist season, this can be difficult to do. One advantage of visiting these gardens in May is that the flower aficionados are busy elsewhere in town and the gardens are much quieter.

The gardens boast one of the largest variety of plants in Spain. Palm trees are prominent along with the statuesque cypresses. In the oldest section of the gardens orange and lemon trees are plentiful. The box-edged beds are home to Clivia, Zantedeschia and – my own personal favourite – the Agapanthus. Perfumed jasmine grows on the walls alongside blue Plumbago. Nearby various roses ensure that the harem garden smells wonderful for much of the year.

The gardens alongside the much photographed long pool were laid out as recently as the 1950’s. Here formal beds with box plants sit happily with pansies and petunias. The lay out of the garden is distinctive and statues of Catholic Kings Ferdinand and Isabella – who lived here for eight years – keep a watching eye on proceedings. As with the Generalife in Granada, these gardens play host to performances of music, theatre and dance. The water in the garden was originally brought in by an aqueduct from the Sierra Morena and the great Albolafia waterwheel in the Guadalquivir, the river that runs through the province of Cordoba. The larger ponds were added in the 19th century.

Close to the gardens you will come across the Royal Stables, which extend to encompass the Gardens of the Campo Santo de los Márties. Adjacent to the most visited site in Cordoba, La Mezquita, is the Patio de los Naranjos. This is believed to be the oldest living garden in Europe. Today where pomegranates and palms once dominated there is now little decoration. Today the water comes from three stunning Renaissance fountains and the water channels cut through the cobbles for irrigation. The fountains date from the 16^th century. While inside La Mezquita it is the ancient columns that dominate, outside 98 mop-head orange trees planted in straight rows are equally impressive.

The Patio de los Naranjos is small at only 120 by 60 metres but it is magnificent. It is proof positive of how much the Arabs who created it knew about gardening. They loved their gardens. Islamic gardens, with their cultivated garden beds and water channels, are traditionally regarded as an early reflection of paradise. They learned all about how best to use water in gardens from the Persian world. The water starved Spain of today would benefit from their knowledge.

The founder of the Omiad Dynasty in Spain, Abd-ur-Rahman I, brought plants from Syria, most notably the Palm tree. Like the ruler himself the palm had previously been a stranger in the West. Abd-ur-Rahman I had been exiled for many years and wrote poems describing his longing to be back in Spain and, in one poem, his love of the palm tree:-

Oh lovely Palm, a stranger thou,
Like me in foreign land,
Here in the West dost languish now,
Far from thy native strand.

The Viana Palace in Cordoba boasts truly delightful gardens and the odd patio. Guide books disagree about how many patios there are in this remarkable palace. Some say 11, others say 14. Frankly once you are engrossed in the beauty of the interconnected patios, any attempt to keep count will fail. The Palace is home to many works of art but for a keen gardener and lover of patios it is not the paintings or collection of leatherwork that excites.

The "Patio del Archivo" which is decorated in a baroque style. A fountain, tiled pond, square flowerbeds lined with box hedges and several mandarin trees are on show. Violets, a popular ground cover in Roman times, are used as groundcover. Proceed to the chapel patio and you will witness Seville orange trees that are over 100 years old.

In the so called Gardeners’ patio you can see the bright blue plumbago that covers the long wall and smell the basil that surrounds you. Whatever you do make sure you sample Patio de la Madama, or Madame’s courtyard. The garden is named after the statue of a woman holding a water jug. Here, and in the Patio de las Rejas, it is possible to view the contents of each through wrought iron grilles from the street nearby but that would be akin to seeing your favourite bar of chocolate through the glass door of a closed sweet shop!

At the end of this journey of the Viana Palace you will be in a courtyard that reproduces the traditional Andalucian patio with many flower filled pots. The centrepiece of the gardens cover an area of 1200 metres. A fountain sits in the centre and is accompanied by climbing rose bushes, arums, gorgeous lilies and citric fruit trees. Two vast date palms, a Washingtonia and a Holm Oak, are magnificent.

Enjoying the gardens of Cordoba is very easy. Be sure to take plenty of time as you tour the various locations. Breathe in the sensuous smells and sit a while. Listen to the relaxing sound of running water. Enjoy the array of plants and trees that have the "wow" factor on a monumental scale. There is no need to look at Cordoba through rose coloured spectacles. It is certain that we owe a debt to those who originally created these gardens, but those who tend the areas today are to be applauded in equal measure.

In life some things are black and white and one of those is that the gardens of Cordoba are there for you to enjoy in glorious colour.

MALAGA GARDENS

2007-04-09T14:29:00.004+02:00

Malaga is famous for many things. The August Ferria that thousands recently enjoyed. The fish restaurants along the coast near El Palo are always tasty. Watersport participants like the beaches and then, of course, there is the airport. Of which, at present, the less said the better.

Gardeners would not make Malaga their first port of call but I strongly recommend they do take time to enjoy the greenery that is on offer. Malaga has some serene outdoor spaces and parks. Its gardens are, more often than not, spectacular and contain the unique and the unusual. For example, the very rare bottle shaped tree commonly known as the White Silk Floss (Chorisia Insignis) can be found in the Muelle de Heredia, which itself is not far from the lovely Ficus Retusa in the Avenue of La Alameda. Here you can also see a curious date palm with nine trunks. Clearly the authorities care about the appearance of green spaces in the City, as even the briefest wander along Paseo del Parque will confirm.

This vast botanical garden is divided into two and is separated by the main road that runs from Calle Larios to the plaza del General Torrijos.
Built in 1897 on land reclaimed from the sea, the Paseo del Parque is now home to plants from all four corners of the globe. 30,000 square metres of land containing exotic palms alongside oriental banana and Ficus trees. Nearby are some of the most historic buildings in Malaga. These include the Gardener’s House that is now the Tourist Information Office. It is worth stopping off here not only to enjoy the surroundings but also to ask for precise directions that will enable you to get to the highlight of any gardening tour of Malaga.

It is possible that one day somebody will compile a book of the worst signposted attractions in Spain. It would be a hefty volume! El Chorro would be in there but so would the Finca de la Concepción gardens that are located at the point where three motorways meet, just outside the City. A Spanish friend once told me that the tourism authorities don’t actually want us to go to any of the many attractions on offer in Spain. I think he may have a point. You can actually see the 250.000 square metre garden from all three motorways. Then the fun begins. Two hours after first setting my eyes on Finca de la Concepción, I arrived in their car park. Not surprisingly only four other cars were there in the middle of the day. There are no tourist signs on the motorway directing you towards the gardens and directions given on official websites are misleading. Once you do get inside though, the gardens themselves are amazing.

They were created in 1850 at the request of the Marquis of Casa Loring, Jorge Loring Oyarzabal, and his wife Maria Amaiia Heredia Livermoore. She was the granddaughter of an English consul. He was the man who founded the newspaper "El Correo de Andalucía (The Andalucian Post) and inspired the construction of the railway line between Malaga and Cordoba. They named the gardens after one of their daughters. They were 19^th century collectors of plants and their wish was to have an English style garden in Malaga. In 1943 "La Concepción" was declared a garden of historic and artistic merit. In 1990 it ceased to be private property and passed into the hands of Málaga City Council. It officially opened to the public just 12 years ago and a marketing campaign has brought its delights to a wider public.

In total there are over 800 tropical and subtropical species. There are 100 varieties of palm tree, including an impressive Chilean Wine Palm (Jubaea Chilensis). This is the hardiest feather leafed palm, tolerating a temperature as low as minus 15c when mature. This, and the Blue Palm from Mexico, are particular favourites with palm aficionados. For me it is the black bamboo (Phyllostachys Nigra) that makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. Never on my travels of gardens have I seen black bamboo reach such a height as at Finca de la Concepción. In a nice touch, some steps in the gardens have been made out of old bamboo.

I was also impressed by the bark of the Kentia (Howea Forsteriana). It is very distinctive with its brown rings on a green bark. Smaller varieties than the one I saw on show are now bought as houseplants in the UK. As long as you can block out the noise from the motorways, the audio backdrop to these gardens is one of running water. There is a fountain around almost every corner. A small Neo-classical temple is home to the valuable archaeological collection of Jorge and Maria.

Weddings are now held in the gardens and your celebration party can enjoy lunch under the large Wisteria walk that was used by the previous owners as an outside dining room. I was told that the Wisteria can be viewed in full bloom at the end of March and in early April. That I must see!

The tallest tree in the entire province of Malaga stands at 45 metres high. It is the Araucaria Bidwilli Hook - or monkey puzzle tree to you and I. It is a native species of the Island of Norfolk in South East Queensland. Admiring its full splendour is guaranteed to give you a stiff neck. However, the upside is that the alcoholic extract taken from its leaf has anti-inflammatory properties and has been used as a medicine. A shame then that the monkey puzzle is under threat. Fires, climatic change and the use of its strong trunk for building purposes are all contributing to making this unique tree a rare species. The country of Chile was very wise to forbid the logging of the tree by making it a national monument. I hope other countries follow suit. There are some fine specimens of Ficus on show at Finca de la Concepción. These include the Ficus de Hoja de Magnolio from Australia and the Ficus Laurel from India.

There are many sub-tropical flowering plants including the distinctive Strelitzia Nicolai, which stands over four metres high. More commonly known as the Natal Wild Banana tree its seeds are black and its flower resembles the head of a bird. Of course it is not just humans who are attracted to this home of tropical and subtropical plants. Look out for many and varied birds who relish the luscious surroundings. It is possible to pick up a map and wander around the gardens yourself. I suggest you do this only after you have been on the guided tour. The enthusiastic Carmina showed me around in a very relaxed manner and she was willing to chat about the garden at length.

Unlike the gardens themselves, the plants are well signposted. It is easy to know exactly what you are admiring at any one time. There are native plants from Mexico, India, Java, China, Japan, Formosa and Australia – from where the Moraces originates. Look out for its distinctive trunk and the roots that hang down from the branches and promptly take root in the soil. From China comes the beautiful orange blossom while South Africa provides the much loved bird of paradise (Strelitzia Reginae). Smaller in size but equally impressive is the dwarf date from South East Asia and, standing tall and proud, is the Sagu tree from Japan (Cycas Revoluta Thun).

Before leaving this area of tranquillity for the madness of the neighbouring autovia, be sure to stroll around the Paseo de las Palmeras de Canarias (the Canarian Palm Tree Walk). It takes you to the viewing area from which you can take in panoramic views of Malaga. Located outside the botanical garden is a route called "Around the World in 80 Trees". The trees are arranged according to their country of origin. There are 25 from the continent of America, 8 from Africa, 18 from Europe, 17 from Asia, and 12 from Oceania

The Concepción Gardens are not just for show. Much studying takes place here by environmentalists, teachers and plant experts from around the globe. It was also good to discover that there is a workshop where young people can learn basic gardening and nursery skills as well as how to create watering systems. It is clear to me that in Finca de la Concepción the Malaga authorities have the Spanish equivalent of Kew Gardens. It is just a pity that they don’t make it easy for people to get there and have inadequate facilities for when they do arrive. For example, it is disappointing to note that the only form of refreshments on offer come via vending machines. There appeared to be no shortage of staff on duty so why no cafeteria to water and feed the horticultural hikers?

It is understandable why tourists take too little time to enjoy the gardens that are in the busy City Centre of Malaga. There is so much else to do and negotiating the traffic can be daunting. In Finca de la Concepción, the City of Malaga has a gem of a garden. It is a safe haven for plants and provides sanctuary for people escaping motorway madness. Eventually!