When the days begin to stretch and the first warmth finds its way back to Fife, it has long been the custom of good folk to come together — to work the land, tend the walls, and welcome the turning of the season.
And so it was, last Sunday, that a band of faithful helpers answered the call and made their way to Monimail Tower.
They came with their hands ready and their hearts willing. New apple trees were planted on the terrace and in the orchard, and pear branches were grafted with careful skill (thank you Adam!!!) — small acts of faith in seasons yet to come. Along the old garden walls, the apple cordons were pruned back into good order, and the larger bushes that had crept and sprawled along the tops of the stones were cleared away, restoring the walls to something closer to their former dignity.
The compost boxes were rebuilt and set in order, ready to receive all that the garden will give and give back in return. And in the woodland, a new gate has begun to take shape at the woodshed — a quiet but determined answer to those who have helped themselves to what was not theirs.
Work on the flower beds continues, as it always does — patiently, slowly, as all good things grow.
As the light faded, the volunteers gathered around a fire, as people have gathered around fires here for centuries, to give thanks for spring’s return.
And before you leave the gardens — look down. The wild garlic is in its prime right now, and it would be a shame to let it go to waste.
Thank you to everyone who came. Monimail is what it is because of you.
