That was the year that was - Malcolm

As we reach the end of the year, full of memories, some good and some bad, we can look forward with anticipation to what the next year will bring us. Gardening attracts those of a philosophical nature, and now that the winter solstice is past and the days are now starting to lengthen again we can start planning next years garden.

La Rochelle in France, harbour and promenade

But we should not forget the lessons we have learnt from the dreadful weather suffered in Europe this summer. Global warming means a turbulent weather pattern, with each year being different from the last. The summer flooding, with clouds everyday, meant that our Cannas were deprived of much light and although they rallied in the autumn, it was still the worst year for Canna that we have experienced. However, we were lucky compared with many others, who had their plant stock destroyed.

This year we did not need to store water, but at Claines Canna we are still proceeding with installing a large storage tank at the highest point of the garden complemented by some small pumps to transfer rain water into the tank. The day will arrive when we will be in severe drought, and with the rapidly changing weather patterns that could be 2008.

A holiday in France meant we came back with many more Canna specimens, again!

Next year we have the International Canna Trials to look forward to, links at the foot of this article, and our thanks to all who have supported Keith, Christine and us in this effort, which will enhance the growing of Cannas considerably.

Canna 'Roi Humbert', grown for 100 years at the Nantes Park Department, France.

Finally, Margaret and I would like to thank all of our Canna friends for their continual kindnesses, sharing their gardening treasures and advice. The Canna world is still small, so let us all look forward with tolerance to enjoying our Canna friendships in 2008. May you all have a very happy and prosperous new year, and we look forward to seeing you at the Canna Trials in 2008.

Margaret and Malcolm Dalebö



Why not visit the Canna Trials in 2008?