This week has been all about the tulips.
1. First tulip
It all started with this very first perfectly formed specimen flushed with a delicate pink.
2. Radiant blooms
As more tulips started to open, and the sun shone, the garden basked in the radiance of their blooms.
3. Fabulous colour combos
Some of the colour combinations have been simply divine. Here, the deep burgundy satin blooms of Havran stood tall over the red-crimson petals of Couleur Cardinal and the sunset colours of Prinses Irene.
4. Inner beauty
On closer inspection, as the tulips unfolded, the insides revealed a further hereto hidden inner beauty.
5. My favourite tulip
It was hard to choose, but Slawa came out the winner this year for sheer wow factor. A deep rich burgundy edged with apricot, all in one perfect goblet-shaped bloom.
6. Tulip tableau
The stage was set, and all that planting earlier in the year did not disappoint. The tulips have been an absolute joy, particularly at a time when I have needed cheering up. And I wanted to share it with you …