Some plants are more than just beautiful or useful – they tell stories, whisper memories, and breathe a fragrance of old times, opening our hearts. Salvias are this kind of plant.They grow in the dry uplands of the Mediterranean, in Mexican gardens, on European meadows – and in the quiet corners of our soul. With more than 1,000 different species, salvia is one of the world’s most diverse plant groups. Yet it’s not just this botanical abundance that makes it so fascinating – it’s the combination of healing, beauty, fragrance and spirituality that makes this plant so special.

Salad leaves are a truly multi-talented garden crop – they can be tender, spicy or crispy, ranging from classic lettuces and rocket salad across an astonishing range of different varieties, leaf shapes and flavours. Some are great for growing a quick crop in spring – others will survive the first frosts and give you fresh green leaves through into winter. In this post we’re taking a look at twelve different salad categories

When California poppy (Eschscholzia californica) opens its flowers it’s like the sunshine has come down and kissed your garden. This enchanting wildflower is an iconic plant of the American West – and a fascinating plant for the future for natural and sustainable gardens. What makes California poppy a plant for the future?