Heavy rain falls across Durlston. 16.9mm over the last 24 hours. It drips, flows, pools, and foams at the base of the Holm Oaks. A lone Blackbird darts out from deep crimson thicket of Dogwood where yet more droplets fall, intercepted by the Ivy leaves and berries.
The rain is relentless. But it’s a good opportunity to monitor the footpaths for drainage issues. Fortunately much of the stonechip coast path through the woodland is holding up well, though the there are many improvements to be made along woodchip play trail. I take some photos but struggle use my sodden phone screen.
Towards Solent Road, about half way down the woods, I can feel the water soaking through to my toes and I regret not bringing a spare pair of boots and socks.
It was a pleasant surprise to see the Crocuses out in flower at the corner of the Aviary Glade: The lilac petals a welcome splash of colour on such a drab morning. Similarly, I find joy in the copper coloured Beech leaves which still cling to the lowest branches, and of course the beautiful tiny Snowdrops which have blossomed amongst the leaf mulch.
We have put up a load of mesh tree guards around the planted European Spindles at Sunnydale. These plants haven’t faired too well against either the caterpillars or deer, of which at least the latter can be prevented. I fix up a couple which had fallen over, and take care to not stand on the carpet Daffodil shoots which surround them.
Primrose, Creeping Comfrey, and Celandine are also in flower amongst fresh leaves of Wild Arum, Wood Dock, and Three-cornered Leek. The stream runs with force as it meanders under the Cherry Laurels, now laden with fruit. Where the channel narrows, it fills right up the mossy banks, and churns out a strong flow of brown water through the bridge.