I like them both! I shoulkd have said that I do actually like the green hues in the Acers I have in shade. They are probably more interesting as theres a variation of leaf colour over each plant.
They are such fantastic plants, arent they!
RE: Elder
Well, I got surfin'
It was really to find out more about elderberry wine!
But, first hit, and this came up:
http://www.whitedragon.org.uk/articles/elder.htmSome little things in there for a number of our members who have told me they have hobbies other than gardening.
Some recipe ideas for Isabell?
They can also be mixed with other seasonal fruits and used for pies, jams, vinegar, ketchup and chutney. Too numerous to go into here, but some excellent recipes can be found in old herbals such as Mrs Grieves Modern Herbal.
For Judi, our beader friend:
The hollowed out stems make natural beads, which are very easy and satisfying to make. Cut a young branch into bead-sized pieces with secateurs, then scrape off the bark and sand, first with a rough sandpaper and then with a finer one.
and for moi, protection from those darn midgets in spring!!
An infusion of the leaves, rubbed into the skin, will prevent mosquitoes, midges and flies settling on you. A spray of leaves worn in the hat also helps.
Bless you my child (well, you'll read about that as well!)
p.s. perhaps you should have a read over the last paragraph?
