Thorough Examination - February 2021

This week I had a few moments to finally have a wander around my garden with my camera, and I found some encouraging signs that springtime was just around the corner.

First off, there was some insect life. This Hoverfly (Syrphidae) definitely seemed to be enjoying the fruits of a Daffodil (Narcissus) 'Grand Soleil d'Or' bloom.

Hoverfly - February 2021

Another Hoverfly was interested in the pure white Crocus 'Ard Schenk' blooms.

Crocus Ard Schenk - February 2021

Actually, when you take a closer look at the pure white petals of 'Ard Schenk', you realise that they're not completely white.

Purple Crocus - February 2021

These unknown variety of purple coloured Crocus were probably my favourite as their petals always seemed to catch the sunshine and make the petals glow.

Double Ellen White - February 2021

It was great to see one of my centrepiece plants returning for another season. Christmas Rose (Helleborus orientalis) 'Double Ellen' was a wonderful sight to behold early in the year, especially the white variety.

Avalanche Bloom - February 2021

It was also good to see that Daffodil (Narcissus) 'Avalanche' was putting in a winter appearance. I'd originally bought these bulbs for summertime blooming, but since their first appearance during the summer of 2019, they'd only bloomed in the winter.

White Wallflower - February 2021

Meanwhile my Wallflower (Erysimum) didn't seem to care which season it was as it bloomed pretty much constantly all year around.

Tete - February 2021

Finally, the miniature Daffodil 'Tete-a-tete' had returned, although this one seemed to be missing one of its Tete!

So this week I went with Thorough Examination as my Image of the Week simply because it was great to see some insect activity in the garden, especially combined with some new winter flowers...