At least it certainly has been for Knightsbridge woman Corienna Moffatt, whose traffic stopping hanging baskets have become quite a talking point in the locality.

Whether it is the weather conditions or some secret ingredient she is adding to the water, Corienna’s ability with the art of flower-growing has earned her a bloomin’ incredible reputation among family, neighbours and friends - but Corienna is quite humble about her skills - even though she admits it is getting increasingly difficult to get in her own front door.

“I have always had a flare for it. I just watched my daddy, Ken McCorkell, when I was a child. He was definitely a great gardener - and he still is. So I’d say my daddy is my inspiration,” she said.

Corienna has two Sumo-sized hanging baskets outside the front of her house and one at the back, and it, too, is heaving with flowers of every hue and colour.

“This is just a hobby for me, but I have to agree that my baskets this year are particularly big. I am very into flowers and arranging them, and I especially love being in the garden. Every summer we have great shows of flowers and people do drive around the park in their cars to see them.

“The baskets at the front are really big now. I can hardly get in the front door and they are still growing - but I just love it,” she said, adding: “As far back as I can remember daddy was always into gardening, so I suppose it is just a family thing. His mum and dad were great gardeners too.”

Whether Corienna whispers to her plants, whether it is just good luck or even a knack in the way her plants are handled, it certainly seems Coriena has the magic touch when it comes to a bloomin’ lovely display of colour.