With my recent flurry of activity in the garden ie weeding, watering, spraying and watching out for (on an almost hourly basis) buds on my newly planted white iceberg shrub roses, I have suffered the irritation of constantly having to return to the house, take off muddy gloves and boots for something – whether it be a tissue drink of water or to scribble something earthshatteringly important down on paper lest it be gone forever.

This prompted me after quite some time being irritated, to sit down and compile the definitive list of all things needed at ones fingertips for a session in the garden.  These may not be everyones essentials but they are mine!

• gardening gloves
• both mobile and handsfree house phone ( I am sure most people garden to escape such devices however I do run a business and yes, still feel guilty about gardening when I know I should be doing work – real work!)
• insect repellant
• sunscreen
• hat
• pen and paper – to make a note of jobs you see to be done,  purchases – fertilizer/spray/ new sprinkler/just the right plant to fill a gap
• my trusty little blue transistor radio – especially to listen to the ABC gardening show on Saturday morning
• sunglasses
• tissues

I keep these in a basket in the mud room so that  I can grab it and go whenever the mood takes me.  I have also learnt to keep together in the shed my most used tools such as rake, fork, small pointy ended shovel, small digger and small clippers.

The only thing missing is the timely arrival of someone caring with a tray of tea and adora cream biscuits!!  Someone who will admire all your hard work, the fruits of your labour and listen with interest to your future grand plans.  My mother filled this slot beautifully and I miss her a lot when I am in the garden.  When home my beautiful daughter will take over this role lovingly and it is such a treat.