The Echinops plant, also known as globe thistle, is a hardy perennial known for its striking spherical blue or purple flower heads and spiky foliage. It thrives in well-drained soil and sunny spots, making it a surprisingly good fit for Irish gardens, especially in sheltered areas. I currently have one still growing as a seedling in my backyard—just waiting patiently for it to mature and show off those signature globe-like blooms.

The hydrangea is a classic flowering shrub, loved for its large, showy blooms that range in color from blue to pink depending on the soil. I have one planted at the front of the house, facing north, which actually suits it well—hydrangeas thrive in partial shade and cooler spots, so it’s been doing really well there.

I'm growing chillies for the first time this year—specifically the Cayeneta variety, which is a compact, early-fruiting chilli perfect for pots or small spaces. It's been a bit of a learning curve, especially with some struggles against aphids, but the plants are hanging in there. I'm really looking forward to seeing how the harvest turns out!