
But what really fascinates me at this time of year are the ferns. Initially they look so un-promising, just like a load of brown lumps, and then they start to unfurl:
Those tight little buds begin to reveal their secret centres:
Some of the fronds look as though someone has knotted them up and they're having to work hard to unravel themselves:
And then elegantly, they begin to uncurl themselves, like a hand slowly opening to reveal a precious gift:
Totally fascinating!