Archive for category In Your Garden Now

September in your garden

Sep 1

Posted by Sue in In Your Garden Now

Can you believe it, September’s here already with the sun shining, well at least in Torbay! Who knows, perhaps we’re in for an ‘indian summer’ – how great would that be! Wouldn’t it be nice if we can still find a bit of time to enjoy sitting in the garden. Enough of the weather as it’s a good time to begin general maintenance on the lawn, along with tidying borders and containers so they will be ready for planting spring flowering subjects. Also a number of vegetable and flower seeds can now be sown outside and inside.

 

Fruit

For raising new plants of blackberry, bury tips into the soil of any shoots that have developed this year, as they will quickly form roots and new shoots will develop next spring. Once this has happened the new plants can be separated and planted where you plan to grow them.

Try to avoid wasp damage to early fruiting apples by hanging wasp traps in the branches of the trees. Pick fruit from these early ripening varieties as soon as they are sweet enough to eat as they don’t keep.

All shoots that have carried peaches should be pruned so that newly formed ones can be tied to ones formed this year and these will flower next spring.  

Crops of raspberries, blackberries and other autumn-fruiting varieties should be covered with netting to keep birds away. However, the netting should be checked daily making sure no birds or any other animals are trapped. 
 

Flowers 

Once the summer bedding plants have been removed, plant spring flowering plants such as bellis (daisy), pansy, polyanthus, primrose and wallflowers along with spring flowering bulbs. It is a little early to plant tulip bulbs which should be left until November to avoid attacks of Tulip Fire. This disease causes scorched areas on the leaves and spotting on the flowers. The following hardy annuals can be sown outdoors – calendula, cheiranthus, godetia, larkspur, nigella and poppy. Wild Flowers that can be sown direct outdoors are field scabious, field cornflower and feverfew. In the greenhouse sow cyclamen, pelargonium, schizanthus and strelitzia. Sow in a cold frame the wild flowers primrose and cowslip. Sweet peas can be sown in a cold frame or unheated greenhouse to over-winter. The young plants can then be planted out in March/April to obtain early blooms. It is now a good time to begin watering dormant cyclamen pot plants which were left to die down for a rest.

When rose blooms have faded a last deadheading of roses can be done, and taller stems may be slightly shortened so that movement from wind can be reduced. During the early part of this month stem cuttings may be taken. Cut a length of stem, remove the soft tip just above a leaf joint, cutting below a joint at the base removing all but the top three leaves. Place directly into the soil approximately 30cm (12”) to about half its length somewhere in the garden where they can remain to root and develop for about a year.

Bulbs

Gladioli are still giving enjoyable displays in the garden but it might be nice to cut a few spikes for indoors. Should thrips be causing a nuisance spray with Bug Clear. Once flowering has finished, the corms may be lifted, cleaned and carefully stored for planting out again next spring. So that dahlia stems do not break in the wind tie them to supports such as canes.  Remove any deadheads and cut some flowers for a nice display indoors. When lily bulbs become available they can be planted as soon as you want. 

Bedding and Pots

To make sure displays last well into autumn remember to still give them a little attention.  Water regularly, daily if possible, keep pests under control and, of course, remove any fading blooms. Pot any of the tender plants you may wish to save for next year so that they are allowed to become established in readiness for being placed under cover when the weather starts getting cooler.  

Lawns

Early September is an ideal time to sow a new lawn or make repairs to an existing lawn.  Grass growth is slowing, therefore, reduce the frequency of mowing. Keep the lawn clear of fallen leaves. General maintenance should be carried out to established lawns, aerate by spiking with an aerator or fork, apply a top dressing and towards the end of the month apply an autumn fertiliser.

Vegetables

Plant onion sets of an over-wintering variety from the middle of the month. Sow winter lettuce Valdor and Winter Density. A few cut-and-come again salad varieties could be planted in pots for tasty leaves in the autumn. Lift maincrop potatoes and allow to dry prior to storing in wooden trays in a dark, cool, frost-free shed or garage. Transplant spring cabbage into their final positions. For a supply of herbs during the winter, pot up plants of basil, marjoram, mint, oregano and parsley and grow them on the kitchen windowsill. Crops should be picked regularly ensuring they are always fresh and tender, and items such as courgettes and beans shouldn’t be left too long prior to picking. Tomatoes and chillies in greenhouses should still be watered during late summer sunshine. Celery plants reaching required size can be lifted carefully with a hand fork.

Pond Care

Pond debris, particularly if the weather has been windy, should be removed by using a net, rake or pond vac. It is important that any dead or dying plant matter is removed immediately so it is not allowed to fall into the water, as this can lower the oxygen content and may also harbour diseases. To catch falling leaves secure a net over the pond. Filters and pumps should be kept going, remembering to check them regularly to see if they need cleaning. It may prove worthwhile to siphon off around a quarter of the water in the pond replacing with fresh if your fish stocks are high. To build up fish strength in preparation for the winter give them a high-protein feed.

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It doesn’t matter if the skies are grey or blue……

Aug 27

Posted by Bea in In Your Garden Now

Carole King sang about the weather so beautifully in her song ‘It might as well rain until September..’

Well yes and no because I think that she might have been thinking more about the love of her life at the time and was a tad immune to anything going on in the outside world. She also said she didn’t need sunny skies for the things she had  to do, well a few more would be nice before we settle down to warm and cosy nights around the fire. And of course it would make the task of preparing for the autumn/ winter much more enjoyable.

Looking around the Trials ground today you can see the ravages of the recent weather and of course the ominous onset of autumn. It is amazing how nature constantly lets us know whose in charge of proceedings, however much we moan.

Of course some flowers are in their element now, such as Rudbeckia with their gorgeous autumnal red –gold shades, lifting their heads and lighting the touch paper on those cooler days to come. The Asters are also holding their own in the wake of the  deluge, and continue to smile their way into the gardeners ‘must have’ list of  flowers. Sunflowers that were holding back a little have now raced away down the fast track and are coming into bloom, and with their incredible versatility they deserve to show off a little.

On the vegetable front the sweet corn are cropping really well and the marrows and pumpkins have lapped up most of the summer sunshine and the latest downpours of rain, which in their case equates to a gourmet lunch at Harrods! They are thriving on the excellent combination of lots of heat and water, so where are the camels?

The Bank Holiday weekend is upon us once again, how time flies, and of course there are plenty of jobs to do in the garden, unless you would rather be stuck in a traffic jam of course going nowhere fast (well that’s usually the case anyway). I think probably a good old tidy up is definitely on the cards for me. The weeds and brambles in the front garden have suddenly thought that they are in ‘run riot’ heaven and unless I tackle them now they could prove to be a pain in the proverbial by spring.

September is always a good time to think about weeding and reseeding the lawn. The ground at this time is the ideal temperature and is much better than trying to do it in the winter, when the birds would probably think – ahh supper! And sadly, your houseplants vacation in the garden should now be over and they should be re introduced to their warm and comfortable surroundings.

Now is the ideal time to buy and plant all your winter bedding. Make sure that your garden looks spectacular in the spring with a delightful show of colourful beauties.

All that delicious summer fruit should now be picked, including apples, pears, blueberries and blackberries. Of course folklore legend has it that the Devil pees on the blackberries after the 10th October. All I can say is he must have got a darned good bladder to last that long!

Make sure that you have ready your storage boxes, clean wooden trays etc, and a good supply of sterilised jars for all that lovely jam and chutney.

It doesn’t matter if skies are grey or blue… so it might as well rain until September….

Have a good holiday weekend.

Bea

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August in your garden

Aug 3

Posted by Sue in In Your Garden Now

With such good weather at the moment why not relax and enjoy it in your your garden, even though we know there are jobs still to be done to keep it looking good.

Even though ladybirds are an attractive sight in any garden they are also a great help to gardeners because they are a natural predator of aphids such as greenfly, blackfly and whitefly. So here’s a simple tip to help your plants to survive and thrive – when you see a ladybird in the garden, pick it up and place it in your greenhouse or on your roses, fruit trees or anything you’re worried about. It will make itself at home in no time and hungrily devour the pests. And don’t forget that you can attract more ladybirds with a Ladybird Tower or a Bug Box. 

Lawns

If you would like a fine finish to your lawn then cut more than once a week. Any weeds should be removed and, if required, the holes filled with a gritty compost followed by a small amount of grass seed being raked in. When the weather is dry and hot, ideally the grass should be kept slightly longer by setting the blades a little higher.

After being away on holiday you will want to cut the grass but to avoid any stress to the lawn it is best to do this gradually. We would suggest only removing 13mm (½”) of growth to start with, giving another light cut a week or so later, followed by cutting to the recommended height.

Prepare sites for new lawns, as towards the end of the month and into early September is an ideal time for sowing. The area should be level, free from large stones and weeds. It is very important to remove perennial weeds as these will be difficult to control until the lawn is established. Where perennial weeds are growing on the site, spray with a weedkiller containing Glyphosate some weeks before commencing soil cultivations. This will allow any re-growth to be treated for a second time.

Vegetables 

As many varieties of peas and beans come to fruition, the challenge for gardeners is to replace them with some more productive plants so consider onion sets or garlic? Sowings of Japanese bulb onion Senshyu Semi-Globe Yellow can be made outdoors from mid to late August for harvesting in July. Sowings can also be made of spring cabbage, chinese cabbage, corn salad, winter lettuce and radish.

As you lift your potatoes, why not replace them with Late Season potatoes which will give you a second crop in October. Maincrop potatoes can be lifted as required for immediate use and where they are to be stored, harvest in September or early October. The spread of potato blight can occur if conditions are hot and humid, therefore, to prevent attack it may be worth considering using a fungicide spray. Potato yields can also benefit by being given extra water.

The tips of any climbing shoots of runner beans should be pinched out should they reach the top of the supports. Small, tender courgettes can be regularly picked by using a sharp knife and carefully cutting them off at the base, protecting sensitive hands from the prickly leaves and stalks by wearing gloves. Any crops that are in flower, have fruit or pods on them must be watered well. The side-shoots on tomatoes should be pinched out regularly and the leading shoots tied to the supports. A high potash tomato fertiliser feed should be applied weekly and don’t let the plants go short of water. The tips of cucumber side shoots should be pinched out just two leaves beyond any fruit that may be developing. If any old fruit is left on the plants this will affect further flowering so remember to pick cucumbers on a regular basis.    

Fruit

Keep well watered during dry spells and weeds under control by hoeing. Cut down canes of summer fruited raspberries that have finished cropping, tying in new canes to supports and removing any spare ones. The runners of new strawberry plants should be secured into pots of compost or soil allowing them to root. The foliage should be removed just above the crown of each plant remembering to clear away any debris. Grape vines can be tied to supports. Main shoots and side shoots of gooseberries can be pruned back to five leaves encouraging fruiting shoots for next season to be produced.

If you haven’t already, why not take a look at our NEW & EXCLUSIVE Lubera fruit range where we offer some truly exceptional varieties of apples, blackcurrant, blackberry, figs, grapes plus many more. This includes the new and exciting Apple Redlove® that you may have seen on TV or in the papers.

Patio Pots, Baskets & Containers

Thoroughly water at least once a day making sure the compost doesn’t dry out completely. As compost can become bone dry in smaller terracotta pots than larger plastic pots any water will run straight off. It is, therefore, ideal to place pots, baskets, containers in a bowl, bath or even water butt leaving them in soak thoroughly for a short while. Also, just because it may rain, the compost could still remain dry due to foliage not allowing the water through.

 
  

Flowers

Some hardy annuals such as calendula, eschscholzia and myosotis can be sown direct in their flowering positions obtain early flowers next spring/summer. Seeds of perennial plants that can be sown now include cheiranthus (siberian wallflower), cyclamen hederifolium and potentilla. For colourful pot plants in the home, plants of cactus, cineraria, cyclamen, coleus and schizanthus can be raised from seed sown this month. Wild Flowers are becoming popular and sowings of cowslips and primroses should be made in trays, placing in a cold frame. Feverfew and field cornflower can be sown where they are required to flower. Now is a good time for cutting plants such as achillea, grasses and other everlasting subjects as they are at their peak. They should be hung upside down in an airy, warm place so that they can dry naturally ready for using in arrangements. Use bamboo canes to support stems of tall perennials and lilies.

Deadheading of roses should be done regularly, and flowers trimmed just above the top leaf on the stem. Stem cuttings can also be taken for propagating.

Bulbs

It may seem a long way off, but now is the perfect time to start planning the displays of bulbs that will fill your garden with colour next spring. Take a look at our comprehensive range of great value bulbs and perennials online, and get your order in now. We’ve got all your favourite varieties of daffodils, tulips, hyacinths and loads more. Go on – make sure next spring is your brightest ever!

General and Pond Care

Cuttings of fuchsias and tender perennials can still be taken which will quickly root at this time of year. The resulting young plants will be sturdy and over-winter successfully on a windowsill. Cuttings can be taken now of houseplants such as coleus.

If plants being grown in patio pots are not doing as well as expected, this could be caused by either ants nesting in them or vine weevil. Preventative action should be taken and in the case of ants the pots could be stood, above the water level in large saucers of water, and in the case of vine weevil treat the compost with a biological pest control.

Going away on holiday and there’s no one to water your plants in the greenhouse or conservatory, then it may be worth considering one of the many watering devices available while away such as Watering Mats, Micro-drip Watering System & Timer Set, Watering Spike, Adjustable Drip Feeder. In the case of containers and hanging baskets it is well worth moving them to a situation where they are shaded and out of full sunshine. In the case of terracotta pots, if possible place them on trays spread with gravel and topped up with water, this will let the pots gradually absorb the water.

To prevent plants that are in a greenhouse becoming scorched, which can occur if the leaves are wet, on hot days either place netting or use a shade paint on the outside of the glass. In this instance, please remember to water plants carefully, it is always advisable on hot days to damp down the floor of the greenhouse as this will increase humidity.

This is an ideal time to clean out any empty water butts so that any dirt that may be trapped at the bottom is removed.

Use a net to remove any dead flowers or leaves. Overgrown pond plants can be thinned, and it may prove useful to take note of any waterlilies which will require dividing next spring. Feed fish regularly, taking care not to over-feed, with a varied diet to build them up. Any food remaining in the pond after ten minutes should be removed. To help aerate the water and keep fish healthy top up water levels. Oxygen can be increased by letting water gently fall into the pond from a hose at a height approximately 1m (3’). It may prove necessary to increase the amount of oxygen to fish and plants during thundery weather in which case leaving the fountain running overnight will prove helpful. If you haven’t a fountain then a gentle spray using a hose over the surface from time to time will prove beneficial.

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In love with garlic!

Jul 10

Posted by Gardening Diva in Homegrown Food, In Your Garden Now, In the Veg Patch, Vegetable growing

The ancient Egyptians credited it with magical medicinal powers, and Roman legionnaires attributed their strength and stamina to the “stinking rose.” Garlic is one of my favourite garden crops.. quick to plant and very easy to grow, it stays buried  in the ground just waiting to be pulled, dried and cooked with!

I grew garlic for the first time last year and it is one of the easiest crops I know of! I have several troughs about 3 ft long and put 7 or 8 cloves of garlic in each in around October and basically just ignore them for the next 8 or 9 months! They sit in their little homes all green and lush looking and are seemingly indestructible! It was a horrible winter last year and I lost several plants in my garden, but the garlic just kept going.

We all know how great it tastes either as a flavouring or roasted whole as an accompaniment but it is also very good for us providing allyl sulfur compounds which some scientists believe have an ability to slow or prevent the growth of some cancerous cells.

It’s worth mentioning that the smaller you chop your garlic, the stronger the flavour and the more pungent it becomes. Garlic cloves which are cooked whole are generally quite mild so can be eaten whole, whereas garlic which has been pushed through a garlic press is 10 times stronger than garlic which has been chopped with a knife! Crushing also bruises the garlic so if you want a purer flavour, chopping is by far the best option. Therefore, if you want a milder tasting dish, either add whole cloves or lightly crush with the flat of a knife. I am adding some great garlic recipes shortly as I am in the process of drying my first crop of garlic, harvested about a week ago so ready to cook with next month.

I have to say I also love the whole process of pulling the garlic and drying it.. There is something really special about garlic bulbs hung up with the long leaves just draped and drying.. the faint garlicky smell permeating the room/shed. I have learnt this year how to make a garlic plait and it’s not as hard as it sounds if you take it step by step, and is really satisfying!

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July in your garden

Jul 1

Posted by Sue in In Your Garden Now

Summer at last!! With fingers crossed let’s hope the fantastic weather we’ve had during June will carry all the way through July and on and on…. well at least through August/September. Although this is still a busy month, with all the watering and dead-heading to be done, don’t forget to find time to sit back and relax so that you can enjoy all the hard work you’ve put in to achieve such a beautiful display!

 

Flowers

Transplant seedlings of winter/spring flowering plants into seed trays or small pots.  Dead-head bedding plants and roses to encourage further flowering. It’s also advisable to use a spray on roses for the control of rust, black spot and mildew. Baskets and containers can dry out quickly in warm, sunny conditions and may need watering twice a day. Feed regularly to promote flowering. 

Remember that by regularly watering and feeding every two weeks, cascading varieties such as million bells and petunia surfinia will give spectacular displays lasting right through until early frosts.

Sowings can be made of alyssum saxatile, aquilegia, armeria, campanula, coreopsis, delphinium, lychnis, myosotis, penstemon, pansy, physalis, pyrethrum and helianthemum. Also at this time sowings of biennials such as foxglove, sweet william, canterbury bells and forget-me-nots can be made for planting out in autumn.

Perennials 

Flowers that are coming to their end should be removed, as this may with some varieties encourage further flowering. Flower-spikes can be cut down to just above a new shoot or leaf, apply liquid feed to each plant to encourage fresh growth.

 

Bulbs

Dahlias especially will be growing well, and for the plants to produce a greater number of flowers, the first bloom should be cut with a very short stem and avoid cutting into the flower buds below. If larger flowers are required – remove the flower bud shoots (this is disbudding) below the main leading flower bud, which will strengthen the stem, and make the flower size noticeably larger. By pinching out shoot tips on chrysanthemums in early July this will encourage shoots to branch out and carry more blooms. 

 

Vegetables

If you are growing onions they should not be allowed to go short of water as this will affect the size of crop. Should conditions be dry it is advisable that the plants are watered once or twice a week; and do keep the weeds down.  

Remove side shoots on tomatoes and stop the plants when 4-5 trusses have been produced.  Feed regularly with a high potash liquid fertiliser. Do not allow plants to dry out as this can lead to blossom end rot.

It will soon be time for harvesting second early potatoes, therefore, to make sure the potatoes have developed into a good size just examine one of the plants and if they are still a bit on the small size leave them a little longer but remember to water regularly every week. Beetroot and other crops can be harvested while they are young and tender.

Continue to make sowings of carrot, lettuce and spinach. Sow spring maturing cabbage using varieties such as April or Offenham 2 – Flower of Spring. Sowings of broad bean The Sutton and dwarf french beans can still be made until the middle of the month. Regularly pick runner and french beans and courgettes to encourage further cropping.

Pot-grown sweet corn can be planted out and it is best to place the plants in blocks rather than rows spacing them out about 45cm (18”) apart each way. At this time herbs such as thyme and sage produce fresh healthy new stems which if cuttings are taken will quickly root.

  

 

Fruit

After all your efforts in growing soft fruit, its time to make the most of those strawberries, raspberries, redcurrants, whitecurrants, cherries and rhubarb. Surplus strawberry runners should be removed by cutting them close to the plants. Prune established plums and apricots. Trim new growth of gooseberries in the early part of the month if not carried out last month. New canes of blackberries and loganberries should be tied to supports. Container grown apples can be pruned by cutting back side shoots to within five buds of where they originate. The tips of figs can be pruned of any unwanted sideshoots below the fifth leaf or remove completely.

Protect fruit bushes from birds by placing netting over them, but remember to check daily making sure no birds are trapped.

Have you seen our NEW & EXCLUSIVE Lubera fruit range where we offer some truly exceptional varieties of apples, blackcurrant, blackberry, figs, grapes plus many more. 

 

 

Lawns

It is advisable to mow lawns at least once a week, if possible twice, keeping the edges neat. Lawns should be fed, if this has not already been done. However, don’t mow as often during long, dry spells just let the grass grow longer plus summer feeds shouldn’t be used as this encourages new growth. Lawns in drought areas may turn brown during warm weather in the summer, making the look less attractive, but try not to use a sprinkler as they will quickly recover once wet weather returns in autumn, if not sooner!  

Remember to treat weeds and moss. When weedkiller has been applied do not add the first few mowing clippings to the compost heap. Having problems with moles ruining your lawn, why not use a natural solution such as Anti-Mole Bulbs.

 

General & Pond Care

Remember that with the warmer weather your potted plants, especially those in the greenhouse, will more than likely require a daily watering. They should also be given a feed, whether in the form of a full strength one which would be required once a fortnight or a diluted one on a  more regular basis. Crops being grown in growing bags mustn’t be allowed to go short of water, and one solution to assist this would be to place them on gravel trays. Also doors and ventilators should be opened each morning but closed again in the early evenings if it is cool. As whitefly and red spider mite can be a problem at this time of year keep a check and, if necessary, a biological control should be used.

Why not carry out any painting or preserving work, when the dry weather comes along, as fences, garden furniture, sheds, etc. could always do with a regular new coat.

Clean pumps and filters to remove any weeds or other debris that may have built up. Flowering aquatic plants should be deadheaded so that they do not set seed, also tidy up any plants that may get out of hand. Water levels should be topped up during hot spells which will ensure the health of plants and fish, this also prevents damage to the pond liner. Blanketweed should continue to be removed as it appears.

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Falling back in love with gardening

Jun 21

Posted by bodonnell in In Your Garden Now

I think I fell out of love with gardening last winter. Weeks and weeks of cold weather meant that it was almost impossible to do any gardening and the exceptionally cold weather meant that many plants that would normally survive were not so lucky this year (see my post A touch of Frost.) After this I also lost a much-valued tree fern that I didn’t protect properly.

So when Spring arrived, all I could think was that I didn’t want to invest too much time in plants that might not survive. The cold Spring meant that I started gardening late so I didn’t bother with any veg seeds and went straight to plants, which felt like a bit of a cheat. But I did plant some tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers. Any I did my potatoes in buckets as usual. But I couldn’t get too excited by it all.

Clematis after floweringOn Sunday I turned out one of my potato buckets and the crop was good – 5 kilos of Rocket Potatoes – so I was happy. Very happy. On my way back indoors I noticed that the clematis that was growing on the fence had gone over to be replaced by these delighted golden swirls. They’re so intricate and delicate that you could not failed to be entranced by them. So after the weeks of beautiful flowers we now get treated to these beauties. I think my love for the garden may be on its way back.

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June in your garden

Jun 4

Posted by Sue in In Your Garden Now

How time flies, it’s June already; so let’s hope summer really is here and we can enjoy those long warm, sunny days! This is the ideal time for outdoor sowings of a number of seed varieties, plus, with the warmer weather, the raising of foliage plants. Preparation of the ground for bedding plants can now be done, as well as thinning out plants that have already been sown. And the ideal time to prepare the greenhouse against hot days by either using shade netting or a shade paint.

Fruit

Inspect fruit bushes and trees for pest and diseases, and treat as necessary. As new canes of raspberries and blackberries appear tie to support wires, but remember to keep them away from last year’s growth as this will flower and fruit this summer. It is a good idea to drape netting over soft fruit bushes such as currants, as well as strawberries which are either growing in rows or containers, to prevent birds, especially blackbirds, from stripping unprotected plants of their fruit. Strawberry crops that have been kept under glass, cloches or fleece should now be uncovered so that pollinating insects can gain access. Also if strawberries are being grown in a greenhouse open doors fully now.

Roses, Bulbs & Young Plants 

To encourage strong growth along with a good flower display sprinkle rose fertiliser around the roots. If it doesn’t rain during the first week or two gently water in or use a hoe being careful not to harm the roots.

Remove any dead foliage from spring flowering bulbs, with the exception of daffodils and tulips which could be left a little longer but do take off any seed-heads that may appear.  However, if possible, it is best to allow the foliage to naturally die back. Lilies that are in pots will be growing quickly at this stage of the season, with the flowers starting to develop, and could very well need a few canes for support. Lilies in garden borders may also need to be supported if they are not close to neighbouring plants.

The danger of frost will have now hopefully passed, and young bedding plants that have been grown on under protection during spring can be planted outdoors ready for those beautiful displays, or into summer hanging baskets and containers. When using containers or hanging baskets remember not to fill them right up to the top with compost but leave a small gap so that when watering it will soak in and not run over the edges. It will also prove very beneficial to give your potted plants a weekly liquid feed to improve growth and flowering. A number of young plants would also benefit by having their shoot tips pinched out which encourages branching. By pinching out the shoot tips bushier plants develop along with more stems leading to more flowers. 

Flowers

To encourage strong growth along with a good flower display sprinkle rose fertiliser around the roots. If it doesn’t rain during the first week or two gently water in or use a hoe being careful not to harm the roots.

Remove any dead foliage from spring flowering bulbs, with the exception of daffodils and tulips which could be left a little longer but do take off any seed-heads that may appear.  However, if possible, it is best to allow the foliage to naturally die back. Lilies that are in pots will be growing quickly at this stage of the season, with the flowers starting to develop, and could very well need a few canes for support. Lilies in garden borders may also need to be supported if they are not close to neighbouring plants.

Lawns

The lawn is now growing quickly and should be mowed and trimmed regularly, lowering the cutting height, and watering during dry spells. If you haven’t already had the opportunity, spring/summer lawn fertiliser can be applied to established lawns now.  

Vegetables

Plant out greenhouse raised brussels sprouts, cabbage, celery, courgettes, cucumbers, marrows, runner and french beans. Beetroot, carrots and lettuce rows can be thinned out and further sowings can be continued. Remember smaller crops will be produced when over-crowded sowings are made, and any unwanted seedlings should be carefully removed. In the case of pumpkins, courgettes and marrows hand pollinate to encourage good fruit set.  Protect carrots from carrot fly and cabbages from caterpillar damage by covering the crop with Enviromesh. To improve pollination for greenhouse tomatoes just tap the flowers. When digging up early potatoes take care not to pierce or damage the tubers. 

The Greenhouse

Rooted chrysanthemum cuttings and summer-bedding plants that have been hardened off in the greenhouse can be planted into their flowering places. Don’t let plants wilt so remember to water them regularly. A weekly feed with a high-potash liquid tomato feed should be given to cucumbers, capsicums and aubergines. Prepare for hot days by either using shade netting or a shading paint.

Ponds

Fish should be checked from time to time to ensure they are healthy, and if necessary treated with the appropriate remedy. Do not allow algae to build up. Blanketweed must be removed from the pond by either using a rake or cane. It is best to leave it at the edge for a day or so enabling any creatures that may be caught up in it to make their way back into the water, then it can be placed on the compost heap. Pests such as snails should be kept out of the pond so check any new plants before placing in the water. This is best done by taking them out of the pot, place or hold plant under running water and then re-pot into fresh soil. Use a feed which is high in phosphates for feeding established plants.

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In Your Garden in May

May 5

Posted by Sue in In Your Garden Now

May is the month that kicks up a gear as vegetable and flower plants can be planted outdoors into their final growing, weather conditions allowing so let’s hope this will happen soon as the beginning of the month hasn’t started off too well! It is also good to be able to start taking care of lawns to get that appearance we love so much! Now that the soil should start to warm up, with weeds sprouting, it’s the perfect time for sowing seeds such as primrose, sweet william, cauliflower, spinach and radish. However, keep an eye on any weeds appearing as they will need taking in hand!

Get your lawn in orderLawns

Provided the weather is mild and the grass is growing, applications of lawn fertilisers and weed killers can be made to established lawns. Depending on growth, regular mowings with the blades set at maximum height may be necessary, remembering to remove any dead foliage beforehand. This is the time to control fairy ring, also yorkshire fog, couch weed, bindweed along with other weeds being eradicated by teasing them out and cutting the roots. Continue to sow new lawns.

Begin harvesting rhubarbFruit

Keep well watered in dry spells to ensure good setting and fruit development. For more growth on grape vines, pinch out the tips of shoots that are two leaves beyond a developing fruit truss. Rhubarb stems that have been forced under jars can be harvested by gripping them firmly at the base, then pulling them sharply away from the crown. To keep fruit clean and discourage mould lay straw between strawberry plants.

Thin out beetrootVegetables

Beetroot and spinach can be thinned out at this time. Earth up potatoes by using a hoe to pull up the soil when they are approximately 23cm (9″) high. For extra support use a hoe to place soil up around the base of the stems of broad beans.

If weather conditions allow, runner and french beans raised under glass can be planted out towards the end of the month. Seeds could also be sown outdoors at this time under cloches. However, for an early crop sow two seeds per deep pot in the greenhouse or on a windowsill, thinning out to leave the strongest seedling for planting outside in late May or June.

Marrow, courgette and sweet corn should be sown in the greenhouse and also outdoors at the end of the month, into early June. There are also a number of other subjects which may be sown either outside or under cloches during early May including broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale, peas, lettuce, radish, spinach and swede. Baby vegetables (in our Speedy Seeds section) are becoming very popular especially where space is limited. Many can be sown at this time and, with the exception of sweet corn, can be grown in containers and growbags on the patio as well as in the vegetable garden. However, should soil conditions be cold and wet delay sowing.

Slow release fertiliserHanging Baskets/Patio Containers

As long as your patio is sheltered or under cover, hanging baskets/containers can be planted up with fuchsias and tender perennials, why not incorporate a slow release fertiliser and water storing crystals to reduce feeding and help water retention at the same time. So that containers do not dry out watering can be stepped up on warm, breezy days. Dwarf dahlias can be potted up into containers ready to provide colour from mid summer to early autumn.

Pinch out fuchsiasFlowers

If soil conditions are not too wet dahlia tubers can be planted direct into the garden soil from early May onwards for late summer flowering. Gladioli can also be planted at this time directly outdoors for late flowering.
Provided the risk of late frosts have passed, tender summer bedding plants can be planted outdoors towards the end of the month, but if weather conditions are still wet and cold delay planting until early next month. Taller perennials or those subjects which may tend to fall over will require the support of frames. The sowing of hardy annual flowers should now be completed, however, later sowings will result in the plants flowering later. You may find it worthwhile with some plants, such as fuchsias, to remove the very tip of a shoot which will then encourage them to branch out. Nasturtium seed couldn’t be easier to sow, just push it into damp compost. It is always a good idea to regularly check your plants making sure they receive sufficient water and do not dry out. It is also a good idea to commence weekly liquid feeds which will prove beneficial, and to re-pot any plants that show signs of becoming root-bound. As pansy flowers wither remember to dead-head them to encourage further flowering. Now is also a good time to check for greenfly especially on spring bedding and bulbs such as daffodils and tulips. During early May chrysanthemums raised from cuttings can be planted out along with a tall cane for support as the plants grow.

Get the hoe out!General

Should weather conditions still seem uncertain, take precautions to guard against frost especially at night by placing Envirofleece over emerging crops such as potatoes, covering cold frames with either polythene or sacking, and young plants that are in the greenhouse can be covered with newspaper. Prevent weed seedlings becoming established by hoeing borders once a week. Any plants being delivered this month must be opened immediately, if not the leaves will go yellow with rot setting in. Remember, if you are going to be away make arrangements for them to be delivered to a friend so that they can still be opened up.

Many plants are susceptible to attack by aphids and measures should be taken to bring this common pest under control.Vine weevil can sometimes cause quite a problem so it may be an idea to use a biological nematode – simply mix into a solution and water plants when larvae are active (soil temperature should approximately be above 5ºC/40ºF). To keep control of slugs and snails, trap them under tiles or even grapefruit skins remembering to collect them up and disposing of them. Use pellets only sparingly. There are also non-chemical traps available such as Slug Umbrellas.

Get to work in the pondPonds

Water lilies and other pond plants can be planted up in new aquatic baskets and compost, do not use ordinary compost as it encourages algae and is too rich. Any plants that have become overcrowded should be lifted and divided, trimming any stray roots and this procedure should be carried out every few years. If you have a new pond let it settle for at least six weeks before adding fish. When water reaches 10°C (50°F) start to feed fish but remove any uneaten food after about 10 minutes.

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April in your garden

Apr 6

Posted by Sue in In Your Garden Now

Now with the beginning of spring surely the weather has got to improve as March didn’t turn out as we would have hoped. With the days starting to draw out, it could be the ideal opportunity to start spending more time in the greenhouse as, hopefully, warmer weather is just around the corner! April can be a busy month not only for the continued sowing of flower and vegetable seeds, but hanging baskets and containers can also start being prepared. Also if conditions are right, why not start on the lawn!

Time to order your Seed PotatoesFruit

A good thick layer of well-rotted organic matter can be used for mulching any type of fruit. Summer and autumn fruiting raspberries that have been newly planted should be cut back to approximately 23cm (9″) from the base. To encourage early flowers cover strawberry plants with cloches. Early rhubarb should be harvested now, remember to remove any flower spikes that may develop. Keep a check on plants for pest and disease, taking any preventative action if needed.

RaspberriesFlowers

Seed of half-hardy bedding plants may be sown in trays in greenhouses or on windowsills, pricked out when large enough to handle into individual pots, remembering to water regularly and given a weekly feed. Summer bedding plants raised earlier can be planted into hanging baskets or containers and grown on in the greenhouse until moving outdoors at the end of May/early June, depending on weather conditions. A wide range of hardy annuals can be sown in their flowering positions and these would include cornflower, cosmea, echium, helichrysum, limnanthes and matthiola. Sweet Peas may also be sown outside in their flowering position. Spring flowering plants such as primroses and pansies should still be looked after by removing any dead-heads or fading flower-heads to encourage further flowers.

It’s also a good idea for plant support frames to be placed over clumps of tall perennials letting new stems grow through them which will completely hide the supports.

Plant your bulbs nowBulbs

Begonia tubers can still be planted into pots for growing in the greenhouse, remembering to make sure the concave part of the tuber is uppermost and lightly covered with compost. A weekly feed is recommended and as they grow can be potted on. Towards the end of the month plant dahlia tubers outdoors, if weather conditions are suitable, with a 10cm (4″) covering of soil, however, if it is still cold in your area leave planting until later in the month. To prolong the flowering period of gladioli plant at intervals. For filling in gaps in the garden, lilies can be grown in pots enabling you to move them around.

Start to sow Sweet PeasVegetables

Many vegetables can be sown in the greenhouse to obtain an early start. Sowings can be made of runner and french beans, aubergine, capsicum, celeriac, courgette and marrow. Towards the end of April sowings of cucumber and melon may be made. Tomato seeds can also be sown now in a warm place which will provide plants for either planting out in early June or growing on in an unheated greenhouse. Herbs can be sown in the greenhouse and many can be sown outdoors. Cauliflower seedlings produced from seed sown earlier may be pricked out and placed in seed trays for growing on so plantings can be made later in spring. Continue to make sowings of carrot and lettuce on a regular basis. Second early potatoes should be planted during the early part of the month and main crop varieties towards the end. Onion Sets, along with seedlings already grown, can be planted in rows remembering to leave enough space so as you can use the hoe for weeding. If shallots haven’t already been planted they should be done so as soon as possible. Leeks can be sown in the nursery bed and then transplanted into their final rows in the summer. Plant asparagus crowns in beds that have been prepared well. Previous herb cuttings from last summer that were potted up which are now well-rooted can be potted up separately. Sweet Corn seed can be sown in warm conditions at this time so that plants will be ready for planting outside in early summer.

Give your lawn a makeoverLawns

Provided the weather is mild and the grass is growing, applications of lawn fertilisers and weedkillers can be made to established lawns. Should moss have become a problem, treat with a moss killer. Rake out dead moss and then fork over so that growth and surface drainage will be improved. Apply lawn fertiliser to promote strong, healthy growth. Depending on growth regular mowings may be necessary. Keeping a regular check on weeds is essential so that they can be dug out. It is the best month for sowing grass seed and, as mentioned last month, our Rapid Green Lawn Seed will solve all your problems!

Feed trees and shrubsGeneral

Early sowings outside may prove difficult due to the cold and wet soil at this time, therefore, by warming up the soil of prepared areas with cloches it will protect from frost and rain. It is ideal to leave the cloches in place for at least two or three weeks when the soil can be raked prior to seed sowing and planting out of young seedlings. Replace the cloches giving the young plants a good start.

Keep an eye out for slugs and snails with the use of slug pellets if needed, of course, following directions on box.

Pond netsPonds

It is important to remove blanketweed with a rake so that it doesn’t take over. Check wiring and clean filters thoroughly of fountain pumps that have been stored away for the winter before placing back in the pond. Established waterlilies should be fed with a specially formulated feed.

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The first day of Spring?

Mar 22

Posted by bodonnell in In Your Garden Now

While many regard yesterday, 21st March as the first day of Spring there are so many opinons about what constitutes the beginning of Spring and, given the size of the UK, it almost seems trite to try to imply that Spring arrives on one day. According to The Guardian “for statistical consistency” the Met Office defines 1st March as the first day of Spring rather than the more traditional date of 21st March, the vernal equinox. But, as pointed out on Wikipedia, the equinox is really mid-spring in the way that 21st June is mid-summer.  That said, we all feel the benefits of the longer days and there is nothing to lift the spirits like a crisp Spring morning and for me, Spring really arrives when the clocks go forward as this is when I can do some gardening after work in the evening!

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