It is true to say that gardeners have an affinity with nature, more acutely aware of the turning of the seasons, eager witnesses of the gradual transformation of the months from January through to December.

It is also true to say, that in common with each other they tend to be a resilient lot, hardy dependable and patient. Able to overcome the most extreme conditions, put up with set backs, never to give up in order to bring seeds to life, observe the emergence of new shoots, the explosion of blossom and the maturing of fruit. In essence gardeners are blessed with uncommon endurance and like the long distance runner, they’re in it for the duration.

The Enduring Gardener is the ultimate gardeners blog. It enables gardeners both professional and amateur, local and international, to communicate with each other, passing on helpful tips and information, to create your own community as well as forming lifelong friendships. Stephanie Donaldson is the Gardens Editor of Country Living magazine, author of many gardening books and a very hands-on gardener. A long-time believer in organic methods, her expertise in this area led to her co-authoring the Prince of Wales’ most recent book, The Elements of Organic Gardening. Stephanie’s own garden is located in a sheltered spot on the south coast and she also has an allotment nearby where she graciously allows her partner Andrew to share the work! Her Gabriel Ash greenhouse and coldframe form the engine room of her gardening endeavours. In her regular blog Stephanie will report on what she is up to and how her gardens grows.