The beginning of February marks the decline of winter. Candlemas, one of the Quarter Days, marks the midpoint between the winter solstice (21st December) and the spring equinox (21st March.) The promise of spring seems more apparent (although, of course, the weather can take us by surprise and deliver some sharp doses of cold, ice and snow…) But it is at this time that our senses, dulled by the sloth of winter, need stimulating and some of the early harbingers of spring can bring real joy.
Winter flowering honeysuckle is just one such that brings a breath of freshness. The flowers may not be all that impressive – although even this tiny white flower is an indicator of much more to come – but if you can get close enough to breathe in the scent of this jewel-like flower you will be in for a delightful surprise. Zingy, floral and fragrant this is a plant to delight and cheer the heart.
Snowdrops are beginning to burst onto the scene – their pure white, delicate pendant flowers present a flash of bright light amidst fresh green foliage.
A winter walk at this time of the year can bring the delight of a swathe of these pretty flowers – massed together they look like a drift of snow, brilliant when the wintry sun bathes them in sudden light.