There is an old saying: ‘Ne’er cast not a clout ’til May is out’. In other words, don’t be too quick to shed your winter layers. There’s some debate as to whether this refers to the end of the month of May, or the point when the hawthorn—often called May blossom—comes into flower. Either way, it’s a reminder of just how changeable our spring weather can be.
The May blossom is beginning to open, but last week it was still a challenge deciding what to wear outdoors. Should I reach for a coat, or would a sweater be enough? It wasn’t so much that the weather changed from day to day, more that it changed from place to place. In the sunshine, it felt pleasantly warm; in the shade, much cooler; and once exposed to the wind, decidedly chilly. So, for now at least, the coats are staying within easy reach.
Regardless of the weather, it was a very busy week in both the garden and on the allotment, though we still managed to squeeze in an afternoon at Lyme Park.

