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Ashington Manor Farm (Yeovil)

After a two-night stay at The Swan Hotel in Wells , we departed for Exeter. Along the way, our first stop was Ashington Manor Farm, the home of the husband and wife garden designers Julian and Isabel Bannerman.  Roses are a specialty of the Bannerman's, but sadly, we were too early to see any. That disappointment was curtailed by touring their magnificent farmhouse, which we were invited to roam around at leisure. And Julian Bannerman, who did most all the talking, was a very entertaining man.  Gathering at the front door - We actually entered at the side of the house, right off the patio, which led to this room, where the Bannerman's greeted us. The massive table was filled with books they had written as well as magazine articles about their gardens. As we were listening to Julian's speech, I happened to notice Isabel Bannerman's book "Husbandry" on the table and immediately recognized it as a book I have at home but have not gotten to yet. At the time, I ha...
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Surprise bloom

This bromeliad always takes me by surprise when it blooms. It is like a surprise lily - it just magically appears one day. I caught a glimpse of pink this morning on the patio and there it was.

I've had this plant for years. I keep it in the house during the winter and put it outside in the spring. I always water it inside the leaves. That's all I do and I'm familiar with the rules of growing one. 

I'll post another photo when the flower opens. It is quite dramatic.

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy
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Comments

  1. Lisa at GreenbowSeptember 23, 2012 at 3:50 PM

    I just love surprises in the garden. This is a beauty. I have never had a bromeliad rebloom for me. Lucky you. Can't wait to see it in full flower.

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  2. Anne BoykinSeptember 24, 2012 at 2:16 AM

    Hi Phillip, That's exciting to see a surprise bloom, especially one so beautiful. I know you're enjoying the cooler temperatures.

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  3. Janet, The Queen of SeafordSeptember 24, 2012 at 7:49 AM

    Love it!! So fun when a plant blooms unexpectedly. I look forward to seeing it open.

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  4. Casa MariposaSeptember 24, 2012 at 5:57 PM

    I love surprise blooms. They are the sweetest. Happy Monday!

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  5. RandySeptember 25, 2012 at 8:31 AM

    How pretty, you know I should get some for winter color in the house. Do they tolerate the dry air inside during winter?

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  6. Phillip OliverSeptember 25, 2012 at 2:50 PM

    Randy, they do. I've not had any problems with them inside.

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