After the frosts endured during this past winter some plants in the Desert Wash looked tired.

We need not have worried for thanks to the lashings of sunshine that prevailed during the summer of 2022, we can now look forward to a summer of unprecedented blossom here.

The main attraction is Agave Montana for we have not had one of these in flower before.

In fact, there is a distinct possibility that our plant may be the first to bloom in this country. A monocarpic plant, (one that dies after flowering), it made two flower scapes last year.

These rose to a height of around two metres and stayed thus throughout the winter.

We went to great lengths to make sure that these were protected during the winter and today, they are once more growing again, taller than ever, their tops becoming evermore bulbous before bursting forth with a large candelabrum of yellow blossom, watch out for pictures on Instagram!

Other excitements in the Desert Wash include several Puyas which are hardy bromeliads from South America.

I hesitate to give the varietal names for there appears to be much disagreement as to their validity. One that we acquired when we first planted the Desert Wash last bloomed four years ago producing two spires of flower.

This year, after the hot summer of 2022, it has five flower scapes, the most we have ever seen.

The pleasure of anticipation when you can see these great buds getting larger by the day is palpable. The flowers open their three petalled dark blue, glistening flowers at the centre of which are orange stamens on an ascending stem to a height of around two metres, a spectacular sight indeed, in the wild they are pollinated by Humming birds here, bees enthusiastically do a similar job.

Yuccas that have not bloomed before are contributing to the scene and a Nolina, a third-generation plant from seed is thrusting forth a stem of creamy-white blossom high into the air so look up for these.

Also, look down for Yuccas that bloom within their crown of protective sword-like leaves the flowers remaining safe from predators.

Plant Fair at East Ruston Old Vicarage, Saturday, June 10 from 10am, admission £5,

East Ruston Old Vicarage garden is open Wednesday to Sunday from 12pm-5.30pm.

For guided tours and other information please visit www.eastrustonoldvicarage.co.uk