Absolutely thrilled to win ‘Star Prize’ in the 8 December issue of Garden News magazine sharing my dear friend’s grape crop which she has grown in her greenhouse.
The vine has fruited prolifically and is gently supported by a fabulous soft, flexible material... Ronnie's recycled tights! Genius!
Ronnie Fox is a truly inspiring lady, with very green fingers. Sadly her husband passed away last year and the garden has become an absolute sanctuary to help her though this difficult time. The power of gardening has helped provide focus, relaxation and hope for the future.
I work for Ronnie in the garden every few weeks but she is actually a family friend; the family paths have entwined since the 80's! We have many projects and plans in the pipe line for next year.
Her and her husband were avid bird watchers and her entire garden is planted specifically to attract birds - it is an amazing wildlife haven.
Recently she had a 50th wedding anniversary gathering and sold many of her propagated houseplants and raised £500 for Alzheimer's Research UK. I did buy rather a lot of plants - including a fabulous 20 year old Monstera deliciosa!
I am donating the prize to Ronnie. Thanks so much to Mr Fothergill's for the £25 voucher to spend in their catalogue. We are in the process of redesigning and replanting her front garden so it will come in very handy!
And huge thanks to Garden New magazine for featuring Ronnie's crop.
Will update garden progress as it develops.
Happy gardening everyone!