Monty Don “Scythes cut grass very well”

In his new book ‘Down to Earth’ Monty Don has commented: “You don’t have to use a machine – scythes cut grass very well.”  This observation has sparked a surprisingly reactionary response from fellow gardening correspondents and garden machinery representatives. Monty’s assertion that scythes cut grass very well is factually true; it is indeed quite Read more about Monty Don “Scythes cut grass very well”[…]

A Welsh Whetstone Holiday in Snowdonia

There is something particularly satisfying about the feel and action of a good natural stone which a coarse synthetic cannot match. Simon Fairlies’ article in Windrow 9 (Feb 2015) highlighted the endangered status of quality natural whetstones, particularly two favourite stones the Bregenzer and Rozsutec.  I also enjoyed reading the reports by Dutchman Henk Bos Read more about A Welsh Whetstone Holiday in Snowdonia[…]

One-to-One Scythe Tuition at Somerset Scythe Festival

Christiane Lechner and Steve Tomlin will be running a small number of one-to-one workshops in mowing and peening at this year’s Somerset Scythe Festival on 16-17 June 2012 at Thorney Lakes, Muchelney. You can learn to improve your scything with individual attention and detailed tuition or and learn to peen the blade under expert supervision. Read more about One-to-One Scythe Tuition at Somerset Scythe Festival[…]

Safer sharpening

The modern scythe is a very safe tool to use – when you’re mowing with it. With a grip in each hand, it’s difficult to bring the blade anywhere near yourself, though easy enough to nip someone else’s heels. In addition, it’s light weight and manoeuvrability make it ideal for use in tricky corners or Read more about Safer sharpening[…]