What happens in winter in the vineyards? We prune. A lot. Let's delve into the how and why.

When we think of vineyards we most likely think of autumn and the harvesting of grapes, the making of the wine. That is the busiest time of year for both the vineyard and the winery, but it’s just the culmination. Whereas winter in the vineyard is possibly the most importantContinue Reading

When freezing temperatures hit even the my ducks say Baby it's cold outside here at PumpjackPiddlewick

We’ve just been enjoying a cold snap here in France. Complete with snow. As I understand much of the northern hemisphere has. But this isn’t so typical here. Certainly it’s cold, but not so much below freezing temperatures cold. Or snow. And I do say enjoying (sort of) as afterContinue Reading

What do I mean by losing my garden virginity? I used to know nothing about gardening. A proverbial brown thumb. And then everything changed. Come discover at PumpjackPiddlewick

In the scheme of life I recently lost my garden virginity. There, I admit it. I have come to gardening late in life, but happily I can now boast that I have found a great and new passion. Since losing my garden virginity I have had not one, not two,Continue Reading

Are you ready for spring? The garden is beckoning here at PumpjackPiddlewick. Let's see what is planned...

Winter here in France is the time to prepare the garden. Time to get it ready for spring and planting things. This winter has been fluctuating dramatically, giving me teasing glimpses now and then of spring to come. The odd dash of sunshine. The hint of warmth in the day.Continue Reading

What is a day well spent? For me here at PumpjackPiddlewick it is about going with the flow. Doing nothing, yet also managing to achieve. Let's delve...

Sunday felt like a day well spent. Decent weather meant it was time to tackle some of those long awaited outdoor chores. Nothing makes you feel more good about life/things/the day when you have accomplished something. Even a little something. Even if it is nothing. Because Saturday was another dayContinue Reading