The Garden-that-was-not-loved has an issue with trees. Well, actually, I have an issue with trees.

I have always wanted to plant my own wood. I haven’t managed it yet and realistically I am never likely to. But in my dreams I am gradually accumulating the young trees which will, one day, be transplanted to that wonderful new wood, to grow tall and strong, develop their own ecosystem and be beloved by my grandchildren.

At the back of the garden we have small oak trees – English and holm – and an ash. No, I did not plant them. Squirrels are one reason they are there. Another is that I cannot bear to dig up perfectly healthy young trees. Trees that appear unexpectedly in borders are allowed to stay.

This is a terrible weakness. On the other hand, I have this beautifully shaped little yew, just waiting for its wood.

Trees which appear mysteriously in plant plots are also allowed to stay. Here, for example, are three young oaks and a holly.

And an even more extreme example: the original yucca is hanging on grimly, despite having been joined by a birch, two laburnums (laburna?) and two oaks.

And that’s not to mention the ash trees, or the ornamental cherries. Something will have to give, but I’m not yet quite ready to give up on the idea of that wood….