Garden Thoughts

Growing plants from seed is a very economic, interesting and rewarding hobby. It allows us to experiment with unusual varieties but for success we need to understand the conditions various plants require for guaranteed germination from the humble Radish to the exotic Bird of Paradise Plant (Strelitzia).

It is important to have space to accommodate the germination pots and trays so a heated propagator and grow lamps in a heated greenhouse or conservatory is ideal but costly in terms of energy. A spare room in the house with background heat and propagators on window sills is more energy efficient.

Timing is vital so if you have the ideal facilities to grow on the young plants you can sow some species like Begonia, Geraniums, Peppers and Chillies as early as January. Otherwise most success is achieved by sowing your seeds in April when the temperatures are rising, the days are lengthening and light levels are high. Or buy these plants from the Garden Centre at the beginning of May.

It is important to have clean equipment so wash everything in a dilute solution of Jeyes Fluid or hot water. I recommended you use plastic pots or trays which retain moisture better than terracotta. Fibre pots and Peat pots are also useful for germinating large seeds like Sweet Peas, Cucumbers, Melons and Sunflowers. They can then be planted directly into their final position without transplanting.

Temperature is a very important factor for good germination. Seeds like Primulas need one week at 24c then 20c degrees. Conversely lettuce will not germinate above 20c. Broccoli Cabbage and Cauliflower need 10c to 15c while Geraniums, Begonias and Impatiens need a constant heat of 22c to 25c degrees.

Peas, Broad Beans, Onions, Beetroot, Carrots and Parsnips and hardy annuals like Nasturtiums, Cornflower and Poppy are sown directly outdoors from April, thinly, into soil that has been raked to a fine tilth. For root vegetables sow the seeds 4cm apart to avoid disturbing the roots by thinning. The soil temperature needs to be about 8c. If very cold nights are threatened cover the planting areas with fleece which will keep the soil and seedlings warm.

It is important to use a good quality compost to germinate seeds. Jacks Magic is a fine peat based compost which retains moisture essential especially for the fine dust like seed of Nicotiana or Gloxinias. Westland Seed Compost is also recommended. It has added nutrients to produce strong growth in the young seedlings. Fill the containers with compost and then water. Allow the water to penetrate the compost and tamp the surface to level and smooth. Don’t be tempted to sow all the seed in the packet. Think how many plants you actually need and sow 10% more seed thinly on the damp compost. The sowing density should allow the seedlings to germinate and grow so there is room to produce the two first leaves. Most seeds should be covered with a fine layer of compost or vermiculate and then with a clear propagator lid to aid germination.

Most tender varieties of flowers or vegetables should not be planted outside in the Borders, Veg Patch or Patio Pots until the end of May to ensure the young plants are not exposed to cold nights and frost so sowing most seeds about the beginning of April is recommended unless you have good heated greenhouse facilities for holding and growing on young plants.

For tender varieties of flowers like Petunias, Lobelia and Marigolds and Vegetables like Courgettes, Runner Beans and Sweet Corn use cell trays or pots filled with good quality compost.  Moisten the compost and put a single large seed or a small pinch of fine seed into each cell or small pot and then vermiculite on top. Cover with a propagator lid, dome cloche or polythene bag and put in a warm place indoors or in a heated propagator in a greenhouse until the seeds start to germinate. Move to a good light source, a warm windowsill if growing indoors, until the seedlings are large enough to handle, usually when there are more than 2 leaves. Transplant the seedlings into larger individual cell trays or pots to grow on until planting in their final position at the end of May.

I am sure you will find “Sowing and Growing” your own plants will provide a very rewarding and interesting pastime save a lot of money.

Products mentioned:

• Plastic pots
• Fibre Pots
• Jacks magic
• Seed sowing compost
• Cell trays
• Dome cloche

At last its March the worst winter weather has past the Covid Pandemic is coming under control after exactly 12 months as more of us receive a vaccine and perhaps soon life can return to some normality. The Garden thank goodness is still there and what a refuge it has been this last year. It is now waking up to a new season and the excitement of the Spring Bulbs appearing the Snowdrops of course have been here at least a month already. Early shrubs are starting to flower and shoots are emerging from the soil with the promise of flowers or lovely foliage later. Time I took a look around my patch to see if there is somewhere I can accommodate any more plants because I’ve read the new catalogues and seen some exciting new varieties I would like to grow and share with you.

Erysimum Spring Breeze Sunset is a Perennial Wallflower and true cottage garden plant. It is one of the longest flowering herbaceous plants and an excellent cut flower. The blooms emerge in spring and continue until autumn changing colour as they mature throughout so the clusters are comprised of yellow, apricot, orange and mauve individual flowers within the cluster. They grow to 45cms and are happy in sun or shade in the border or a tub and are loved by the bees and butterflies.

Blechnum brasiliense Volcano has the appearance of the Australian Tree Fern Dicksonia but is much smaller and more suited to our domestic gardens and “bank accounts”. This plant is compact about 30cms but the fronds will grow to 70cms in a season. The young fronds unfurl in late spring the golden colour of an erupting volcano turning a shiny green as they unfurl. As the plant grows the hairy trunk forms from which the fronds sprout each year. It grows well in shade but welcomes moving to a sheltered place in severe winter weather. It gives a touch of exoticism to any patio garden.

Jacobina paucifolia Firefly also called The Brazilian Fuchsia. It is an exquisite little mound forming shrub about 60cm tall and flowers from December all through the winter months until April. The foliage is dark green and is a great foil for the pendulous tubular flowers that are yellow orange and red. It is an exotic plant for this time of year in the UK but is not hardy so grow in a tub which can sit on a sunny patio during spring summer and autumn and move to a protected site like a porch or conservatory for the winter months.

Nemesia Banana Split is a semi hardy perennial which is a great plant for summer patio tubs. It should be treated the same as Geraniums and Fuchsias so take cuttings in late summer and keep in the greenhouse or conservatory over winter to produce new plants the following year. It is smothered in cream, lemon and darker yellow flowers with a vanilla scent all summer from May to October. Bees and butterflies love this plant which grows to 30cms.

Another plant that attracts bees and butterflies is Sedum Atlantis. It won the RHS New Plant Award at the Chelsea Flower Show in 2019.It is a small compact plant which is ideal for patio tubs or smaller gardens. The foliage is very brightly variegated bright green and creamy yellow taking a pink hue in autumn. The pink tinged flower buds open to yellow flowers in summer and are a magnet to bees and butterflies. It is very good for dry places in sun or partial shade and is fully hardy.

Anemone Fantasy Pocahontas is a compact easy to grow Japanese anemone 45cms tall. It is suitable for a container in sun or shade or the front of the herbaceous border. It will flower from the beginning of August until late October so good colour at this time of year. The flowers are poppy like, semi double with frilly pink petals and yellow centres also loved by bees and butterflies.

So here are six new plant introductions that I am going to grow this year which should give some more colour and interest each month of 2021 to The Pyghtle Garden.

Ask me “What is your favourite plant” and my reply is CLEMATIS. Why? Well within this plant genus there is a variety that will be in flower every week of the year. They come in all the rainbow colours and flower prolifically. Many have a lovely scent, grow as ground cover, over an obelisk, in a pot on the patio, climb up walls or pergolas, scramble over other plants or eyesores or as a perennial plant in the herbaceous border.

In January we see Clematis clarkeana Winter Beauty an evergreen variety with creamy lime green buds in December followed by sparkling snow white bell flowers with a tremendous scent in January to March. Plant it next to your front door enjoy it whenever you return home.

Clematis cartmannii Joe is a delightful small evergreen to grow on a small obelisk in a pot on the patio. It has fern like foliage and is covered in pearly white scented flowers from February to April.

Clematis Alpina and Clematis Macropetala greet spring in March and flower until May. Both species have an abundance of harebell flowers and varieties of various colours from creamy white to pink to lilac and blue. Recommendations are Clematis Alpina Columbine, blue, and Clematis Macropetela Markham’s Pink.

In April we see the rampant evergreen Clematis Armandii Apple Blossom or Snowdrift which will quickly cover a pergola while May heralds Clematis Montana equally as vigorous. Varieties like Miss Christine, pearly white, and Freda, bright pink which will hide a garden shed with its profusion of sweetly scented flowers. 

Most hybrid Clematis will flower from June onwards throughout summer. The list is endless but a couple of recommendations are Lincoln Star, pink and white, Lady Northcliff, blue, Rhapsody, purple, and Olympia, mauve, which is excellent in a pot on the patio. In July we are treated in the herbaceous border to the long blue clusters of Clematis Heracleifolia Stans and on a sunny fence Clematis florida Sieboldia with gorgeous purple centres.

Clematis jouiniana Praecox is ideal ground cover when planted in a bed of bush roses. The delightful bluish flowers appear before the second flowering of the roses. In September as autumn approaches so do the brilliant yellow flowers of Clematis Golden Tiara, Tangutica and Orientalis Bill Mackenzie which continues to flower into October.

In November and December Clematis cirrhosa Freckles and Advent Bells are a delight to see in the dark dank winter months with cream bell shaped flowers with maroon markings.

There are varieties suitable for sunny and shady situations and patio tubs. Climbing Clematis need support to scramble on which can be wires, trellis, pergolas or other plants. If you are growing a patio variety in a tub use a metal or willow obelisk which makes a decorative feature. Varieties that do well in containers are Cezanne, blue, Chantilly, white, Oh La La, pink with a darker pink stripe, and Rebecca, red.

Here are some cultural tips to help you grow Clematis well.  The summer flowering Hybrid Clematis are the varieties that need some special attention when planted. Cut the top growth back by half before planting. Dig a hole three times the volume of the container in which it is growing and twice the depth. Remove the pot and place the clematis in the hole. Fill with a planting compost containing lots of peat. This will bury the lower part of the stem and protect it from surface damage which can cause the plant to wilt.

Hybrid Clematis like lots of water about 5 litres every few days and regular feeding with liquid tomato food to promote flowering. Check the pruning regime on the label provided with your plant. They are available in a vast range of colours with flowers the size and shape of dinner plates to discreet small stars.

The specie and herbaceous varieties are easier to grow and only require to be planted in rich peaty soil.

Please click here to view full details of how to prune different types of Clematis.

There are so many wonderful varieties within the Clematis genus this is just a taste to encourage you to grow my most favourite plant in your garden.

Products mentioned:

• Tomato Feed
• Peaty soil
• Containers and pots
• Clematis

This month I am supporting the campaign being promoted by Prince Charles and Dame Judi Dench to plant trees for the future.

A year ago I wrote “We Can All Save Our Planet If We Plant Trees”. At the time I had no idea how much resonance there would be now after the enormous drop in carbon emissions during the lockdowns due to Covid 19 pandemic.

Being an avid gardener my surroundings and the environment have always been very important. Slogans like “Go Green” and “Green Fingers” had no effect as I’ve always been like a stick of rock green all the way through. I had no idea just how much more aware I could become of my own outdoor space until this year.

During the lock downs, when a lot of us have been forced to stay home, to be able to step out into the garden or countryside and parks for our daily exercise has been vital. Little pockets of nature around us have been vital to our physical and mental health and wellbeing. The colours scents and sounds found in our natural surroundings help us to relax and unwind providing a relief to the unfamiliar stressful situation we found ourselves. A NATURAL Health Service recognised by many as an alternative to costly drugs and therapies are found in nature and trees in particular are a great host for other living things.

Trees sculpture our landscape be it in a pot at the front door or the hedge rows and woodland. They reduce noise pollution from roads, provide a canopy of shade and absorb carbon dioxide producing a healthier and sustainable place to live.

Trees support an abundance of wild life, five star hotels for many species. One Oak Tree will support 200 different invertebrate species. Moths and Butterflies lay their eggs in the bark and when the caterpillars hatch they migrate down the trunk to feed on other plants.

Bees and Wasps nest amongst the smaller branches and are vital for pollination while Flies and Beetles important for recycling organic debris make their homes in the bark and are the food sources for many mammals.

Lichen and Mosses also grow on the branches while Bats make their homes behind loose bark and birds like Woodpeckers, Blue Tits and Nut Hatch all find cosy holes to roost. Squirrels build drays among the upper branches where Crows and Jackdaws also build nests. In the autumn the tree produces acorns another important food source for many mammals and when the tree sheds its leaves many species including Mice Rats and Hedgehogs spend the winter months sheltering in these warm cosy surroundings. One tree provides an ecosystem for many living things including us in which to survive.

I hope you agree that we all need to plant trees or be involved in tree planting schemes. If you bought a pot grown Christmas Tree this year that could be a start. After Christmas gradually acclimatise it to colder conditions by standing it in the shed for a couple of weeks or protecting it with fleece. Then replant into a larger container and it can then be used again next Christmas.

If you have a small garden or balcony many dwarf conifers and miniature grafted deciduous varieties like the Silver Willows and Prunus will grow very well in pots. If your garden is moderate or large the choice of varieties is then dictated by the ultimate size, position and soil conditions.

It is always good to plant native trees like Oak, Hawthorn or Birch albeit more decorative or fruiting varieties. Alder and Willow are good in damp soils while Aspen and Poplar tremble and shimmer with the breeze. Crab Apple and Bird Cherries have scented flowers and fruits enjoyed by the wild birds and Hornbeam and Rowan are both habitats for wildlife during winter.  

It is the ideal time of year to plant trees providing there is no frost in the soil so please choose a tree large or small and support the campaign to provide a better environment for future generations to enjoy their surroundings.

Products Mentioned:

• Conifers
• Ornamental Tree

“Plants are Good for You” All Gardeners know this. Plants make superb Christmas Gifts for all our friends and family.

They are visually appealing with bright colours or calming green with wonderful shapes. Many are also fragrant. The home becomes a better place because people’s moods are elevated with plants adding to our décor contributing to good health and wellbeing. Plants are not just for Christmas so to make sure they give months of pleasure here are some tips to care for them.

Poinsettias probably most define Christmas with their red bracts, bright green leaves and golden flowers - yes, the golden bobbles in the middle of the bracts are the flowers. They are tropical plants so are happy between 15C to 20C in a bright, draft free place. Avoid a windowsill. Only water when the surface of the compost is dry.

Anthurium is a superb plant which is very easy to look after. It has bright red flowers that last for months. They like warmth and humidity and tolerate low light levels but avoid over watering by standing on a tray of pebbles just covered with water away from direct sunlight.

Christmas Cacti will drop the flower buds if over watered but require some humidity in the air so stand on a tray of pebbles and keep these moist. Gerberas require slightly brighter light so put on a sunny windowsill during the day but bring into the room at night. African Violets are always delightful in jewel box colours. Again stand on sand or gravel and keep moist but away from direct sunlight.

Winter flowering houseplants that are more suited to cooler houses are Azaleas, Cyclamen, Solanums and Kalanchoe.

Azaleas need to be kept moist so again stand on a tray of pebbles and water from below. Occasionally plunge the pot into a bowl of water so the level is above the rim. Allow to soak for 30 minutes, remove and drain before replacing onto the tray of pebbles.

Cyclamen should always be watered from below and the spent flowers and stems removed at the base to avoid corm rot. Again plunge the pot occasionally. It is one of the best houseplants for cool places.

Solanums, the Winter Cherry is a very easy plant for temperatures between 10C to 15C. Only water when the soil feels dry on top. It is also good in autumn tubs on the patio until there’s a hard frost. Easiest of all is Kalanchoe, Flaming Katy. It likes a cool but bright place tolerating dry conditions if occasionally plunged.

An Amaryllis bulb makes an interesting present. Amaryllis are easy to grow and should be planted with one third of the bulb above the soil level. Place in bright light and water sparingly at first increasing as the foliage develops and await that gorgeous flower. Hyacinths with their heavenly fragrance also like cooler places and will perfume the whole house for weeks.

In this time of turmoil the Peace Lily Spathiphyllum will be a welcome gift. It is one of the top ten household air cleaning plants with white and green flowers and shiny green leaves. It is easy to grow by plunging in water when dry and standing away from sunshine on a gravel tray.

Bromelia with the bold stunning exotic whirls of red foliage in a stylish pot is a trendy present. The red colour remains for a long time. It likes similar conditions to the peace lily, Spathiphyllum.

It is fun to grow Citrus Fruits especially if there is a heated conservatory. The hardier varieties like Lemon Trees and Kaffir Limes will tolerate lower temperatures down to 0c and can be grown outdoors. It is advisable to wrap the pot with hessian in late October and move against a protected wall or inside if severe weather is forecast. Calamondin, Orange, Kumquats, Mandarins and Grapefruits need warmer conditions above 5c. All Citrus Plants need plenty of sunshine and careful watering too much and too little water can result in leaf drop. We recommend plunging the plant in water so the level is above the pot and leave for one hour. Remove and allow to drain and do not water again until the soil is completely dry.

Orchids make special presents. Phalaenopsis are easy to grow tolerating the drier heat of central heating as well as being almost perpetually in flower. Water them sparingly from the top and stand on pebbles.

Terrariums are back in fashion together with large foliage plants like Calathea, Parlour Palms, Swiss Cheese Plants, Ficus, Ferns, Dracaenas and Yuccas. All have made resurgence popularity since Lock Down and spending more time indoors. All Houseplants look more attractive in a decorative pot which helps to maintain humidity and makes the Christmas Present special.

Products Mentioned:

• Indoor Watering Cans        
• Decorative Pots for Houseplants 
• Poinsettia
• Phalaenopsis    
• Anthurium
• Calathea
• Fern
• Peace Lily

Berried fruits are very productive and really worth growing. They produce some of the healthiest food we can grow and many can be accommodated in quite small gardens. They are rich in Fibre, Vitamin C and Antioxidant Polyphenols and so are important for a healthy heart, for reducing blood pressure and cholesterol slowing cognitive decline and diabetes.

Some can be grown in tubs but many are better grown in the border or veg patch to achieve maximum crops.

The birds also like the berries that we find tasty so it is vital that you provide some protection. A fruit cage is the ideal solution which allows easy maintenance of the crops and easy picking at harvest. It is also vital to water often during the months when the fruit is forming and ripening so a ground irrigation system like Drip or Seeper Hoses will produce amazing crops of rich berries to eat fresh or freeze for winter use. This initial outlay will pay for itself time and again. For example you should expect at least 0.5 to 1 kg of fruit per raspberry cane per year. I have seen raspberries in the supermarkets costing £1.99 for 20 berries!

So Raspberries are really worth growing. For early and mid season varieties I like Glen Proven and Tulleman and for autumn fruiting Joan J or Autumn Bliss. But wait there’s a new kid on the block, Ruby Beauty is the world’s first compact variety. It is summer fruiting, the canes are short and stout so no need for support wires. It will even grow in a large pot. Useful tip feed with Rose Fertiliser in April. It is high in Potash producing lots of flowers and therefore fruit.

Blueberries are another very prolific fruiting berry a super food which is also expensive to buy. It is recommended that you plant 3 plants together to get good pollination and large yields. Grow in lime free compost and feed with ericaceous feed as they like acidic soil. Put sulphur chips around the base of each plant every couple of years to reduce the soil ph. Blueberries grow very well in containers Chandler and Sunshine Blue are both recommended varieties with masses of large berries that are easy to pick and will freeze very well for winter use.

The flavour of freshly picked ripe Strawberries is to be relished. Probably the favourite berry for children to eat they can be grown in tubs and even hanging baskets. Choose a spot that enjoys 6 to 8 hours sunlight per day. Plant 3 plants in a 14 hanging basket and 5 in a similar size deep pot. Feed with tomato food every week in the growing season and water copiously. I grow Strawberry Pegasus, Elsanta and Hapil for sweet juicy berries of excellent flavour.

Blackberries are much valued for Blackberry and Apple Pie, Jam or to eat fresh with Breakfast Cereals. You need space to grow good varieties like Adrienne and Oregon Thornless which grow vigorously and need a framework to be trained for easy harvesting. Opal however is small enough to grow in a container. All have delicious sweet juicy berries that freeze well.

Tayberries and Loganberries are both hybrids from Blackberries and Raspberries. They produce a lot of long stems so need space to be trained on a wire frame. Loganberries are used mostly for culinary purposes but Tayberries produce long sweet berries of excellent flavour.

Gooseberries are an undervalued soft fruit that is beginning to resurge in popularity because it is so versatile. A variety like Invicta can be used as dessert or for cooking and preserves so well either by freezing or for making jam or chutney. It will grow in poor soil even in part shade. Invicta trains very well as a fan shape on a wall which makes harvesting easy.

Jostaberry is a natural cross between a Gooseberry and a Blackcurrant. This soft fruit looks like a Blackcurrant and has the same refreshing flavour with a hint of gooseberry. It has prolific crops which ripen in July.

Most of the berry fruits are easy to grow and are a great addition to GROW YOUR OWN

Products mentioned:

• Tubs and containers
• Rose fertilizer
• Ericaceous Feed
• Ericaceous compost
• Fruit Bushes

The rose is probably the most popular plant in most English gardens. It is also one of the oldest in cultivation with fossil evidence of having existed 35 million years ago. It was grown 5000 years ago in Chinese Gardens and 1000 years ago the Romans planted Roses for medicinal purposes, perfumery and to produce “confetti” for celebrations. In England in the 15^th century it became a symbol of political power in the War of the Roses between the Lancastrian and Yorkshire factions of royalty. Roses were planted in large numbers in France in the 18^th century when repeat flowering varieties became popular. These are the ancestors of our modern varieties today.

We grow Roses in many different ways for the vibrant colours and perfume they add to our gardens in summer and autumn. Roses can be grown to decorate many places whether for a mass display on their own, an addition to mixed shrub and perennial borders, against walls or fences, over arches or pergolas, as standard small trees, as ground cover or a feature in pots on a sunny patio.

Roses are available in a vast array of colours and many have names that highlight occasions like wedding anniversaries and birthdays so make excellent living gifts for gardening friends. Most varieties also make good cut flowers for the house.

Roses will grow successfully in many different soil types but prefer heavy clay to lighter sandy places. It is advisable to add organic material like peat and farmyard manure and a mycorrhizal compound to help the plant to establish a good root system easily.

It is important to plant roses deeply to prevent wind rock which reduces the vigour so dig a hole that allows the soil to cover the graft at the base of the stem by two inches. It is better to plant roses between October and March when the plant appears dormant above ground but it will start to grow roots in the winter months ready for the top rapid spring growth. Most roses need a sunny position. When planting new roses dig farmyard manure into the planting hole to improve the soil structure and mulch the ground surface with bark to retain moisture and smother weeds.

It is important to prune roses to produce the best display. It is essential to use clean sharp secateurs. Do not prune in frosty weather.

Prune Bush and English Shrub Roses by half in November to prevent winter root damage and again in March to 3 outward facing buds. If you cut the plants back by half again after flowering feed with a good rose food and keep watered for about 4 weeks you can enjoy a second flush of flower in early autumn.

Miniature and Patio Roses should be only lightly trimmed in early spring.

Climbing Roses are pruned to maintain their shape so train 4 to 5 long stems horizontally to encourage flowering shoots along the stem. If you are growing over an archway wind the stems as laterally as possible around the upright posts for a lot more flower before training overhead.

Rambling Roses need severe pruning. Cut out the old stems that have flowered and tie in the new ones maintaining a horizontal plane to promote flower buds.

Ground Cover roses can be reduced by half immediately after they flower and will often flower again in the autumn.

Most old varieties of shrub rose flower once in a season on old stems so only need light pruning to remove any diseased or damaged branches and to prevent congestion.

To keep roses free from disease it is important to maintain vigorous growth so feed generously and give plenty of water in dry weather. In November feed with bone meal which is slowly released during winter and from March until June feed with rose food or fish blood and bone. Also put a good layer of mulch around the base of each plant in February to help control any fungus spores in the soil. It is advisable to spray roses when the leaves have grown in spring with a fungicide to control mildew and blackspot and an insecticide if aphids are seen in early May.

There are so many wonderful roses that I cannot begin to recommend varieties. Instead here are a few photos of real specialities.

Products mentioned:

• Farmyard Manure
• Mycorrhizal Fungi
• Mulch/Bark
• Secateurs
• Bone Meal
• Fish, Blood and Bone
• Rose Clear - Insecticide
• Rose Feed and Protect

A positive outcome of the Covid Pandemic this spring has been that a lot of people locked down at home became “Gardeners.”

There has never been so many people taking up this wonderful pastime and discovering the Active, Creative, Interesting, Fascinating, Fulfilling and Rewarding hobby of growing plants we call Gardening.

It was very difficult in the spring to fill Patio Pots and Hanging Baskets with colourful plants for summer because, when Garden Centres were allowed to open in the middle of May, there were very few summer bedding plants with which to fill our containers. Many millions of these plants had been assigned to the compost heaps by the commercial nurseries because they had passed the sell by dates.

It is now time to change the scene and replant to make the Patio colourful through autumn and winter. Any container can be used if we follow a few basic guidelines. The container should be big enough to ensure it holds enough compost to prevent drying out too quickly which happens even in winter. Also it should hold a good layer of draining material at the bottom to prevent waterlogging like gravel or a drainage saucer. Also raising the container from the ground with pot feet is a good idea. By using a Multi compost with John Innes and 10% added grit both plants and bulbs will benefit.

It is not as important in winter if the pot is in sun or shade but positioning away from icy blasts in December and January is good.

Traditional autumn plant combinations are Pansies or Violas which will flower autumn, winter and spring under planted with dwarf daffodils like Tete a Tete and tulips like Red Riding Hood with attractive striped foliage. Another good scheme is Primroses, in flower in autumn and spring, with crocus flowering from January onwards. By including bulbs in the mix gives another dimension and a promise of added interest later. It is so exciting to see the first bulb shoots appearing in the dark winter days.

Combinations of small shrub and herbaceous plants attractively arranged coordinating colour and shape themes also under planted with small bulbs is another suggestion.

A couple of recipes to try are:

Maroon Pansies, Pinky Grey Succulent, Deep Red Flowering Heather, White Cyclamen and a Variegated Hebe planted in a 45cm Terracotta Bowl under planted with White Crocus.

Solanum, Yellow Feathery Santolina, Heuchera Silver Frost, and a Red leaved Cordyline under planted with Tulip Peaches and Cream. Stand a Pumpkin nearby and there’s a display for Halloween.

Autumn flowering Chrysanthemums give many weeks of colour way into winter when planted on their own in a 30cm container.

Daffodils can be planted in layers in a deep pot. Put 10 cm of compost on top of the drainage material and then a layer of daffodil bulbs about 10cm apart. Add another 10cm layer of compost and another layer of bulbs and if there is enough room repeat this ending with a layer of compost. The bulbs will all grow to the same height and burst from the pot.

What about planting a deep container with some layers of potatoes for New Potatoes to eat for lunch on Boxing Day? I use Jacks Magic Compost for this. Also for fresh herbs for the Turkey stuffing plant a pot with Sage and Thyme.

Hanging Baskets are another source of winter Plant Pleasure. It is better to plant one large basket for winter and spring interest so choose a 40cm basket. Using Jacks Magic Compost half fill the basket and add the layer of dwarf daffodils tulips or crocus. Then anything goes and all look good. For the trailing edge plants choose Aubretia, Ajuga, Lysimachia, Lamium, Variegated Thymes, Ivy, Heathers or Trailing Violas . For the upright middle plants look at  Helichrysum, Heuchera, Grasses and Dianthus.

If you have just started growing plants, rekindled an old interest or like some of us unable to live without a potter in the garden every day enjoy the best hobby The Garden. It will keep you sane.

 Products mentioned:

• Pots
• Gravel
• Potting Grit
• Multi-purpose compost with added John Innes
• Jacks Magic

August is Summer and Holiday Time the weather is usually conducive to outdoor living so this year especially with the Coronavirus Pandemic let’s stay home, relax, potter, barbeque, entertain within your bubble but most of all enjoy your garden.

This month the summer bedding plants, if you were lucky enough to either have grown some from seed or bought from the limited stock at the Garden Centre, are at their best. Keep watering them regularly and feed once a week with a liquid plant food to keep them going well into autumn.

Hardy annual flower seeds can be sown this month for early colour in the borders next year. I scatter the seeds in patches but always mark these areas in case I accidently disturb them when weeding. Some varieties to try are Calendula Oopsy Daisy, Forget Me Not Indigo and Digitalis Firebird can all be grown in sun or part shade while Cornflower Classic Romantic, Nasturtium Orchid Cream and Poppy Victoria Cross love a sunny place. When the seeds have germinated thin to the distance recommended on the packet for the maximum success.

Prune Wisteria to three buds on all extension growth and feed with superphosphate. Lightly trim Hebes and Lavender after flowering and remove the dead flowers from Roses to promote more flowers. Cut back Perennials that have finished flowering but feed and keep watering to promote new growth. Rhododendrons, Azalea and Camellias set the flowering buds now for next spring so keep watered and fed with ericaceous feed. Hydrangeas should be watered every three days whether in pots or the border.

Spray Dahlias to prevent earwigs damaging the flowers and keep cutting bunches for indoor displays. Also watch for holes in the leaves of evergreens or a sudden plant collapse which could be Vine Weevil. Treat with Provado or Organic Control. Hang up Wasp Traps to deter unwanted guests at outdoor mealtimes.

Prune trained fruit trees. Please ask Terence at the Garden Centre for detailed advice.

Pick the summer fruits as they ripen and make jam or freeze any excess or trade with a neighbour. Raspberries, Blackcurrants, Redcurrants, Blackberries, Loganberries and Gooseberries can be pruned immediately after harvest. Cut Strawberry plants back to ground level and pot up any runners to replace old plants or increase your stock. Can’t have too many Strawberries!!!!! Keep picking Blueberries a very worthwhile fruit to grow even in a tub.

Protect carrots from Carrot Root Fly by covering the plants with pest control fabric which prevents the fly laying its eggs at the top of the carrot. The larvae cause the damage. Feed cauliflowers cabbage and broccoli with Growmore or Organic Chicken Manure for strong healthy plants and spray to control white fly and caterpillars. Keep harvesting the vegetables when young and full of flavour and freeze any excess. Courgettes will produce large crops if you harvest regularly when they are banana size, an excellent vegetable to barbeque or use in Ratatouille which freezes well. Water Tomatoes often to avoid blossom end rot (black at the bottom of the fruit) and continue feeding weekly. Cut and freeze or dry herbs and sow the last batch of Parsley, Basil and Coriander. August is the last chance to sow salad crop seeds outdoors. Also sow Pak Choi, Chinese Cabbage, Turnips, Spring Cabbage, Winter Spinach, Swiss Chard and Autumn Onion Sets. Try some potatoes in a planter to have new potatoes with lunch on Boxing Day. Water all vegetables well especially Runner Beans and hoe weeds which compete for water.

Finally keep the pond topped up with water. If you have fish aerate the water in hot weather. Ask Keith at the Garden Centre for further advice.

Products Mentioned:

• Watering
• Plant Feed
• Superphosphate
• Ericaceous Feed
• Shears and Pruning Tools
• Pest Control Sprays
• Garden Hoe

While we have all been in this unbelievable science fiction lock down existence many new projects have been undertaken and with the wonderful spring weather we have spent a lot of time in the garden.

Now is the time to add the plants to decorate those new pergolas, raised beds and living walls.        

 BRING TROPICAL COLOURS TO YOUR GARDEN THIS SUMMER

Although summer in England can be hot we are not likely to reach the temperature and rainfall of tropical regions where most flowers are brilliantly coloured. However we can create similar spectacles by selecting plants that together give a tropical feel to our gardens but will happily grow in our climate.

Alstromerias are a great group of low growing summer flowering perennials that require little maintenance and are now available in a vast range of bright hot colours. They are excellent when planted at the front of the borders or in pots where they produce non stop flowers from June to October. The stems can be used for flower arranging and should be pulled not cut from the plant. The more you pull the stems the more new shoots the plant produces. Alstromerias should be grown in well drained soil in a sunny place and covered with mulch in winter until really established. If you are growing these plants in pots use John Innes No. 2 compost and give protection during severe winters. A gorgeous new variety to look out for is Alstromeria Indian Summer with pale and vivid orange outer petals and yellow inner petals and striking dark markings.

Dahlias are another group that have enjoyed a lot of Growers attention over the last few years. There are now some lovely perennial varieties which although subject to frost damage if planted six inches deep in the ground and covered with thick mulch in winter will survive and thrive. Dahlias grown in tubs they should be protected in a conservatory, covered porch or greenhouse. Plant the tubers or plants in a rich organic soil or compost and protect the young plants from frost. Remove the growing tip from young plants to encourage branching and so more flower buds. The plants are very easy to grow but can be subject to aphids or earwig damage so spray with Provanto when any are seen. By continually cutting the flowers for vases indoors encourages a lot more flowers. Strawberry Bon Bon and Amazon are two stunning small decorative varieties while Bishop of Lancaster is bright red.

Crocosmias are a vibrant range of hardy perennials that grow well in sun or shady places. There is an ever increasing range of varieties with more being added every year. They flower from July until a really hard frost often into December. The dazzling range of colours becomes more and more tropical. They are always a successful plant to grow in normal well drained soil and are pest and disease free. Columbus and Buttercup are both good shining golden yellow varieties with Emily Mckenzie a dramatic orange with red centres.

Rudbeckias are very hardy daisy like flowers which are also very easy to grow in normal well drained soil in full sun. There are annual and perennial types and if the annual seeds are sown in March they will be flowering by July until October. The vibrant yellow and orange flowers are now accompanied by new red varieties. Butterscotch is the honey and orange colour that the name suggests.

Canna Lilies are perhaps the most tropical plants we can grow. They are traditionally grown as centerpieces or accent plants in large bedding plant displays. They will flower from July onwards but when the foliage turns yellow and droops down stop watering and allow the plant to dry completely to over winter successfully. Protect with a thick layer of mulch and start watering and feeding again the following March. If growing in pots stop watering completely and put somewhere frost free for winter. Tropicana Black is a must variety to grow with the electrifying contrast of the orange flowers and very dark leaves.

Products Mentioned:

• Plants
• Pots
• Mulch
• Watering
• Plant Feed
• Compost

We Gardeners didn’t really need the Pundits to tell us:

GARDENING IS GOOD FOR YOU!

It is a low intensity work out that encourages an active lifestyle.

Research shows that not only do Gardeners get health benefits from the physical exercise when digging, raking leaves, hoeing and mowing the lawn but mentally it is healthy as well. Gardening helps to keep the brain active and creative reducing the risk of dementia in over 60 year olds by up to 40%. The physical exercise reduces stress and the risk of heart disease, osteoporosis and stroke. It gives us challenges that when achieved promote feelings of satisfaction and happiness. Gardening burns calories helping to control weight, relieves stress and improves the immune system. It demands responsibility giving us a sense of worth, improves the sensory skills, assists with anger management and helps us live in the moment. Repetitive tasks like weeding, watering and trimming help to calm the mind.

If I’ve had a grotty day a “20 minute Hoe” on the veg patch chopping away at those weeds encourages the positive feelings associated with tidying up tasks. The stress hormone Cortisol is lowered in the brain by engaging in a rewarding activity. Gardening has been shown to do this. High levels of Cortisol in your brain can affect memory and learning hence the phrase “I have a lot on my mind”. Gardening can be enjoyed at many levels providing the gentle physical exercise which removes negative thoughts produced by life’s stresses and helps restore the mind set balance.

Gardening is an activity associated with nurture, renewal and growth. When you sow a packet of spring onion seeds or transplant petunias into your patio tubs you are encouraging new life.

Growing your own fruit and veg means you are creating a healthy lifestyle for your family. When we harvest our blueberries or dig our potatoes the reward centre in our brain produces Dopamine, a slight euphoric, which is triggered by the sight and smell of picking the fruit and veg. There’s a great joy when you pick that first ripe strawberry or the first portion of runner beans. This is akin to that felt when you take the first batch of cheese scones from the oven or have a morning’s retail therapy at Rushden Lakes. It is thought that the release of Dopamine and the rewarding feeling it produces was probably experienced by our hunter gatherer ancestors when they found their food. The release of this endorphin encourages repeat activity because it makes you feel rewarded and so it is self-perpetuating.
A natural way of keeping depression at bay is to get your hands dirty. By not wearing gardening gloves and touching compost and soil with your bare hands promotes the release of Serotonin, the happy chemical. It is so called because along with Dopamine it helps to boost the immune system and put us in a good mood.

Planting the Patio Tubs with brightly coloured Bedding Plants and Bulbs enhances our surroundings inviting you to step outside and enjoy fresh air and some sun. Colour and perfume are great stimulators for positive thoughts. Studies have shown that by surrounding ourselves with flowers boosts our state of mind increasing feelings of happiness and joy. Colours like red orange yellow and pink denote laughter, white is bright cheerfulness and green foliage calms the anxious mind. Some flowers like orchids can be enjoyed in greenhouse where they increase the positive energy in their surroundings and are recommended for Feng Shui.

Patient studies showed that those allowed flowers in their rooms needed less pain relief, had lower blood pressure and pulse rates were less anxious and had a more positive attitude to recovery. What a shame NHS hospitals will not allow flowers in the wards.

When your skin is exposed to sunlight it produces Vitamin D which helps with calcium absorption to strengthen bones and the immune system. ALL GOOD STUFF.

So have fun playing in the dirt, enjoy your freshly picked fruit and veg promoting that healthier lifestyle. Take a break from the computer screen and go out into your garden no matter how large or small. Pick up that trowel seek out the spade and secateurs start up the mower and discover for yourself why gardening is good for you.

A very important thing to consider is the structure in our gardens. We build our house, define the boundaries, lay the patio and buy a shed. To blend these all together we need plants. However plants themselves provide structure.

Trees provide an interesting skyline and screen the neighbours. Larger trees like Acer Kelly’s Gold and Sorbus Hupehensis have wide canopies and lovely coloured foliage but lose their leaves in winter time. The conifers like Chaemacyparis Lawsoniana are evergreen with green blue or golden leaves and give all year interest and provide nesting cover for birds. Narrow upright trees like Betula Snow Queen with gorgeous white bark, Prunus Amanagawa and Malus Red Sentinal both flower in spring and are suitable trees where space is a premium.

Hedges can be planted to mark the boundary of your property and are more interesting than fences, providing nesting places for birds and squirrels and a safe haven for a plethora of insects and butterflies. Leylandii gives a quick screen but must be maintained regularly to stop it becoming unmanageable and a bone of contention with the neighbours. Thuya Plicata is slower growing but a lovely colour green with aromatic foliage. Photinia Red Robin, Taxus Baccata Yew and Viburnum Tinus are all good evergreen alternatives to conifer hedges. If you need an immediate taller screen (approximately 3 to 4 metres) plant Carpinus Hornbeam or Tilia Lime trained as espaliers with yew planted below. It is expensive but is a stunning structure in any garden.

Large shrubs can be planted in borders in front of fences and walls to give interest and need little maintenance. Photinia Red Robin with bright red young leaves, Viburnum Tinus and Mahonia Charity winter flowering and Ceanothus and Choisya Tenata (spring flowering) are all evergreen while Forsythia, Cotinus, Philadelphus, Berberis, Sambucus Ivory Tower and Viburnum Opulus lose their leaves in winter but are quick growing and provide extra seasonal interest.

Feature plants used successfully provide points of interest in borders. Taxus Baccata Fastigiata Aurea, Juniperus Virginiana Blue Spire, Berberis Helmann’s Pillar, Miscanthus Karl Forster or Miscanthus Zebrinus, Phormiums or Buxus trained as pyramids are all excellent feature plants giving focal points and structure in mixed borders.

Small top grafted trees which only grow to about 1.5metres do the same. Some examples are Cotoneaster Juliette, Salix Nisiki Variegata, Holly and Euonymus. These can also all be grown in tubs on the patio and can be moved around to change the scene. Standard roses can also be planted in rose beds for height and definition. Something special is Wisteria and Canary Bird Rose trained as standards. Both are breath taking when in flower but interesting shapes for the rest of the year.  Bamboo is another superb structure plant. It is evergreen and can be used to accent or screen.

Paths and walkways look more inviting when planted with low hedges. Lavender and Buxus are ideal plants for this but Thyme, Catmint and Heucheras are also recommended.  Low walls and rockeries are garden structures that need decorating with plants. The alpines are brilliant plants for these situations because they grow tumbling over rocks in the natural environment. Aubretia, Alyssum Saxatile, Saxifrage, Thyme, Saponaria, Alpine Phlox, Helianthemum and Campanula Carpatica between them give displays throughout the year.

We can also introduce permanent features to give interest. Archways, Pergolas, Sitting Nooks, Rope Walks and Obelisks however ornate need plants.  Arches that cover paths and Sitting Nooks need plants with soft stems and perfume that will train easily. You don’t want to be grabbed by rose thorns when you attempt to walk to the garage or sit sipping your Chardonnay! Plant these structures with different varieties of Honeysuckle to make a feature all year. Lonicera Belgica early flowering, Lonicera Serotina late, Lonicera Princess Kate highly scented, Lonicera Hall’s Prolific and Mint Crisp evergreen make the arch a year round interesting feature.

Pergolas being larger will accommodate Wisteria, Clematis Montana, Jasmines and Climbing Roses. Rope Walks are good for Rambling Roses because the rampant growth quickly drapes the posts and ropes. The new varieties like Rose Albright pink and Malvern Hills yellow are exciting because they repeat flowering throughout the summer. Obelisks, the Victorians and Tudors loved them and painted them bright colours. I like to use them to decorate herbaceous borders and to give height in tubs. Planted with perennial sweet peas, hybrid clematis and as in the cottage gardens with runner beans you can achieve another dimension in garden structure.

Finally some structures like the shed can be an eyesore. Cover them up with plants like Polygonum Baldschuanicum, Clematis Montana, Virginia Creeper and Variegated Ivy.

The best structure of all of course is the lawn. It sets off the rest of the garden and keeps the Man in the House amused for hours each week.