First day of Spring

The first day of Spring has arrived at last and with it the promise of so many new and interesting arrivals …

I spotted these Lesser Celandines and in amongst them are some leaves of Wild Garlic ~ both these plants can be added to salads. The young leaves of the Lesser Celandine are claimed to be good for the blood (note: this plant should only be eaten in small quantities as it contains protanemonin). Wild Garlic also known as Ramsons is a perennial member of the lily family – it is a useful herb to have in the border as every part of the flower, stem and leaf may be used for all manor of dishes (especially useful in salads and stir-fries). Take extra care if you have Lily of the Valley in the garden as the early leaves look very similar and Lily of the Valley is poisonous. In general it is better to grow herbs in a special plot designed for plants to be consumed!

Extra note ... the Equinox arrived early this year on Friday, 20th March - one day before the start of Spring!