It’s proving a challenge to capture the colours, shapes, and sheer abundance of the wildflower meadows and olive groves here; the scents underfoot, the way the breeze rustles the seeding grasses, the buzzing of bees. The sheer number and variety of flowers and plants self seeding and thriving everywhere.
At times as the sun heats the land your nose follows a familiar smell….sage, thyme, oregano…….the scent of sweet honeysuckle already in full flower. Or roses pouring out over patio walls in the narrow alleyways and lanes. Heady stuff to properly convey in pictures…….
The Mani Peninsula is famous for it’s honey and everyone here seems to have hives. Bees and insects are plentiful and happy here as a result. There is little or no spraying or “weeding” the flowers and herbs cover paths and walls, roads and hillsides. There are few organised “gardens” as such, up here in the Mani Mountains in May the slopes are one continuous garden.
Wildflowers are considered an integral part of the heritage of this place and I wish we would value and protect our hedgerows and ditches a bit more? Our abundant EU grass, manicured lawns and wire fencing are taking such a toll on our native biodiversity.
Meanwhile these blogging breakfasts are special stolen moments to chat to with you here, until the day calls and the trekking continues…..
Teresa Maria says
Just beautiful! Mediterranean is such a wonderful place this time of the year. We are still waiting for the apple trees to bloom here up in the north. I'm enjoying your posts greatly!
Catherine says
Ah thanks Teresa Maria, a change of scene is so good for the spirit. Looking forward to catching up on my own apple trees soon…….
Amélie says
Just Gorgeous! Such colours and lights… I just miss the scent of sage and origano.
Catherine says
Amelie thanks….you must plant some…..these scents are so good for the soul……
greenthumb says
Just so pretty. I bet your enjoying every moment.
Catherine says
Loving it all…..thank you so much…..
Indie says
It sounds heavenly! There are so many manicured lawns around here, kept in pristine shape by chemicals. A meadow of wildflowers just sounds so much better, with all those colors and textures and wildlife to enjoy!
Catherine says
Thanks Indie, so true!
Diana Studer says
that last yellow spire is mullein?
Catherine says
Diana you are probably right. I grew that once in my Irish garden so was amazed to see so many of them growing wild here. Thanks for that!
Lesley Austin says
So true….we've let our lawn grow long here, with only paths mowed through…it is so lush and beautiful. I long to see more of the populated parts of the earth with long, natural hair instead of crewcuts. And it is good to know that the bees are many and thriving there. Thank you for sharing the flowers and your thoughts…
Catherine says
Good for you Lesley it sounds gorgeous…..I agree let's have more of the natural beauty every time!
Elizabeth Musgrave says
Love the wildflower photographs. My wildflowers here are on the rise (and so are the docks!)
Donna@Gardens Eye View says
I agree and would love to see more wildflowers cherished here too.