As high summer approaches, Peter Dowdall dissects the seemingly effortless look of the cottage gardens seen in the summer’s shows.

The showpiece of gardening and all things to do with outside the home in this part of the world is the Mallow Home and Garden Show. 

NO matter where we live, summer brings a freedom from care that is unlike any other time of the year. The season is full of playfulness, wild flowers, light and relaxation.