I dont think that was wise

The previous owners had planted a bay tree last year and well let it die - I can guess how - not enough water, no food and it didnt look as if they had teased out any of the roots before planting (probably also planted at the wrong time).

Which is a shame as I love bay leaves for cooking and bay trees are not cheap (maybe I can get a cutting from Mums bay tree - I think she would like that - hope Dad has managed to keep it alive. I think he will just let the garden over run for fear of pulling out the wrong thing :( ).

We were a little surprised to discover the apple tree they planted is still alive but not sure if its a full size tree or been grafted onto dwarf root stock - from the current size and looking at the base I am guessing full size (bugger its not in a great place but I would hate to remove it).

My Mum would also be secretly proud and a little amazed that over the years I have actually learnt stuff and while I will never be the gardener that she was I am willing to give things a try.

I have planted a honeysuckle to climb one side of the deck - I will grow the beans up the other side, I have got 2 buddleia plants to go in for the butterfies and I will be growing lavender for the bees, I also have some good old fashioned cottage garden flower seeds to spread.

Anyway Ferd thought that the hole the tree left behind was great (please dont dig up my veg plants)