Posts Tagged Flowers

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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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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Flowers for people in a hurry

Mar 31

Posted by Suttons in Bulbs, Flowers, Seeds

Many people are daunted by the thought of growing flowers thinking it will be too hard to get a beautiful display when growing from seed or very young plants. They go to the garden centre and buy expensive large mature plants for an instant garden colour, but it doesn’t have to be that way.  Many varieties of seed are easy to grow, especially hardy annual types, which can most often be sown where they are to flower. 

Fast flowersHere at Suttons we have tried to make it easy for you to spot the easy to grow seeds by putting a selection of them into our ‘fastflowers’ range.  A collection of garden favourites such as night scented stock, viola and sunflowers which can all be sown direct and will flower in 6 to 12 weeks depending on the variety. They are ideal for beginners or if you want to get your garden off to a flying start with the minimum of effort.

But remember seeds are not just the only way to get a colourful garden with little effort.  Many people just don’t realise how easy it is to grow from bulbs. Say ‘bulbs’ and people immediately think of daffodils and tulips but there is a large range of bulbs, corms, roots& tubers that come under the heading of summer bulbs that are also easy to grow and provide masses of colour for very little effort.  And even better, unless you dig them up by accident when weeding, many can be left in the ground until next year so take even less effort the second year. If you look at their stunning colours and rose like flowers you will see why begonias are one of our best sellers and ho could resist the fragrance of oriental lilies.  And all of these are so easy to grow, just plant at the correct depth and wait for the results!

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In Your Garden in March

Mar 4

Posted by Suttons in In Your Garden Now

Well, at times February didn’t turn out much better than January weather-wise, but March has started with a hint of Spring (here in Devon, at least). Sowing flower seed should be at its height now, plus it is also the start of the main sowing season for vegetables outdoors. Early flowering bulbs will require some attention this month. As long as weather conditions allow preparation for lawns can begin. Gardens could very well need a general tidy up at this time and keep a look out for any weeds that are beginning to appear.

Time to order your Seed PotatoesVegetables

Although we have experienced some very cold weather conditions over the past weeks, early sowings can be made by warming the soil prior to sowing using cloches or envirofleece which will help to ensure good seed germination results. As soon as soil conditions are suitable sowings of artichoke, beetroot, broad bean, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, carrot, lettuce, parsley and spinach. Sowings of aubergine and cucumber, along with other tender vegetables, can now be made in a heated greenhouse.

Shallot sets can be planted this month, spacing at 15cm (6”) intervals in rows 30cm (12”) apart, and once conditions have warmed up, generally towards the end of March, onion sets may also be planted.

To ensure a regular supply of parsley later in the year sow the seed in pots. To encourage strong growth of chives it is best to divide the clumps.

Early varieties of tomatoes will develop well on plants when grown under glass in a heated greenhouse. For quick germination it is best to sow the seed in a heated propagator or you could use a window-sill.It is best to sow outdoor varieties later in the month and the plants are potted on as they grow, ready for planting out in early June.

Seed potatoes should be set out in trays which are placed in a bright but cool, frost-free situation so that the shoots will form. Plantings of early varieties can be made during March, however, main crop varieties are best planted in April.

During March and April celery seed can be sown into pots then placed in the greenhouse so you will have plants ready for planting out during May and June.

RaspberriesFruit

As the pruning of established trees and bushes should have been carried out by now, it is a fairly quite time for fruit, but you can still make late plantings of soft fruit such as gooseberry, raspberry and strawberry.

To encourage long, tender stalks of rhubarb it is ideal to cover the crowns with old buckets which will exclude any light.

Plant your bulbs nowBulbs and Roses

This is the time that early flowering bulbs should be dead-headed leaving the foliage to die back naturally. Begonia tubers should be planted, the concave side being uppermost in the pot, in moist compost which only just covers the top. They should be kept in a bright, warm situation and watered when the compost dries out. Once the shoots are 5cm-7.5cm (2”-3”) long they should be potted up individually. Dahlia tubers can also be planted in trays of compost which will encourage shoots to appear. Lilies could be planted into available spaces you may have in borders, or they can be put into pots.

Overcrowded clumps of perennials can be lifted and divided, or new ones can be planted. If you have light soils this job may, of course, have been done but with heavy clay soils it might be worth waiting until conditions are warmer and drier in the spring.

After flowering but whilst still in leaf it is a good idea to lift and divide snowdrops. The clumps should carefully be teased apart and then the bulbs replanted at same depth as they were before.

It is an ideal time for roses to be pruned, and also remember that any damaged, dead or diseased stems should be removed. Stems should be cut back to an outward facing bud by about a half on bush varieties.

Start to sow Sweet PeasFlowers

Seed sowing is at its height now as most of the summer bedding plants can be sown. Half-hardy annuals such as ageratum, impatiens (busy lizzie), cosmea, gazania, petunia, lobelia and marigold can be sown in the heated greenhouse or indoors. Provided soil conditions are not too cold and wet, early sowings of hardy annuals can be made outdoors. Suitable plants for sowing where they will flower include the following popular items – anchusa, calendula, clarkia, larkspur and nigella.

Remember not to let the trays of seedlings become affected by damping off and to aid this it is suggested watering with Cheshunt Compound.

Sweet Peas can be planted in sunny borders remembering to tie stems onto supports which will encourage quicker climbing and flowering.

Fuchsias, whether bush or trailing, in their pots that may have been kept over the winter will more than likely have lost their leaves, and these should be cleared away just in case pests such as whitefly are present. If conditions have been severe the main stems may have died back and it will be difficult to see whether they have survived, however, this should become apparent by keeping the compost slightly moist along with conditions beginning warm up, then any dead stems should be pruned back. When they begin to grow strongly, watering can be increased along with weekly feeds being started, and, they could also be potted up.

Give your lawn a makeoverLawns

Towards the end of the month, provided the ground is not too wet, is an ideal time to start preparing areas for sowing in April. Perennial weeds should be controlled by digging out the roots or using a weedkiller containing Glyphosate. The site should be dug to a depth of 23cm (9”) which should be followed by raking to obtain a level surface. On established lawns the first cut of the season can be made, not too short, just removing the leaf tips. Where moss is a problem on the lawn Moss Killers can be applied at this time. Our Rapid Green Lawn Seed is the modern answer for creating hard wearing, ornamental or lawns in shaded areas, and reviving worn areas! Replace lawn edges that may have worn away or crumbled by using a sharp half-moon edging tool.

Feed trees and shrubsGeneral

Flower beds can be prepared so that they are ready for sowing hardy annuals during late March through into April. A general fertiliser should be sprinkled around trees and shrubs, and along hedges, then give a generous mulch of well-rotted compost. Around the base of roses, fruit trees and shrubs a mulch of garden compost can be spread.

Houseplants and ferns can be potted on into slightly larger pots. Flowers on fruit trees should be protected on frosty nights but during the day it is ideal for the covers to be removed so insects can get to the blooms.

Winter digging may not have been completed by gardeners who have heavy soil due to the amount of rain which fell during autumn and beginning of winter, therefore, as conditions begin to slowly improve any opportunity available may have to be taken so that any outstanding preparations can be finished.

Clean paths, paving, patios and steps with a pressure washer or chemical cleaner. Also cloches and frames can be washed, inside and out, with soapy water removing any build-up of dirt. By doing this now will let full light pass through glass or plastic.

If not already done, make sure garden tools and mowers are checked over ready for the coming season.

If peanuts are put out, remember, it is best to put them in mesh feeders to avoid young birds choking on any large pieces. It might be a good idea for any bird boxes that may have been put away in sheds for safekeeping during the winter to be checked over for any damage prior to fixing on a suitable tree or wall. However, before doing so make sure cats will not be able to get near them by climbing any fences or branches that may be close by.

Pond netsPonds 

Should algae appear which turns pond water green it is best to see if the oxygenating plants in the pond begin to do their job by starving the algae of food. As milder spells arrive fish can be given some food. Now is the time to remove pond heaters so that they can be cleaned and put away until next winter. Plant debris should be cleared away from around the pond and use a net to scoop out leaves that may have fallen into the water.

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In Your Garden In February

Feb 1

Posted by Sue in In Your Garden Now

In Your Garden This Month

Wow! What a month January turned out to – we certainly had some very cold and frosty weather along with quite a bit of snow which hopefully has, by now, disappeared from your area. Lets hope that only a few of the bulbs and plants being over-wintered in greenhouses were lost during the severe weather we all seemed to experience.

Hopefully the weather will start improving in February as this can prove a busy time of the year for gardeners. All of a sudden there are a thousand and one things that can be done now, such as early sowings of flower and vegetable varieties being started so as to give them a head start. It can also be a good time to start preparations for sowing new lawns, as well as getting the machinery serviced and ready for the coming season if you haven’t done so already.

General

In areas where the weather is milder, perennial plants that had been in clumps could be divided and the outer, young, healthy parts replanted into freshly prepared soil. It may even be an ideal time to dig up and reposition any shrubs or perennials that have become overcrowded. With a number of plants now dying down for the winter, and before new shoots appear although they will grow through, a fairly thick mulch, 5-7.5cm (2-3”), could be spread around perennial plants, trees, shrubs and even fruit, but be careful not to cover any dwarf bulbs that may be in flower.

It may prove very beneficial for a large, clear sheet of polythene, held in place by either bricks or lengths of wood, to be placed over the soil keeping off any heavy rain, ensuring the soil remains dry. As time permits, the sheeting could be folded back, the soil dug over and the sheet replaced – this is particularly helpful when soils are heavy clay. If you are short of time, another solution may be to cover the soil with compost or manure, and then as spring approaches lightly fork in to the surface which will prepare the soil for planting.  Where early sowings are going to be made, it is a good idea to warm the soil up by a few degrees, therefore, approximately two weeks prior to sowing cover the soil by using a single layer of polythene or fleece. By doing this it will quickly encourage germination and establishment.

Do keep a look out for pests such as whitefly, and any plants or cuttings that are seen to be infested should be sprayed.

A good way to provide extra winter protection for plants is to use a cold frame which should be situated in full light thereby receiving warmth from the sun but sheltered from cold winds. Ventilation should be provided on warm days so it is a good idea for them to be opened up which will prevent a build up of warmth, however, remember to close them at night. To provide extra warmth an old rug, blanket or even overcoat could be used on nights when conditions are very cold.

Ground that hasn’t been dug over yet could be covered with a layer of compost or manure ready for lightly forking in to the surface during spring so as to prepare the soil for planting.

Pots and seed trays which have been left should be thoroughly cleaned, using a little household disinfectant and rinsing with clear, warm water, so that they can be put away for use in the spring. A brush might come in handy to remove any stubborn dirt and old compost that might be harbouring pests or diseases in the pots and seed trays.

It is still a good idea to keep gutters on greenhouses clear of leaves and debris, and to allow maximum light in keep the glass washed.

Shrubs

To avoid tree and shrub branches from breaking, use a broom to knock off any snow laying on them, should you still be having this type of weather in your part of the country. Tree ties should be checked making sure they aren’t cutting into the bark. Any worn or damaged ties should be replaced. Should you have experienced any storms or high winds check to see that any tree stakes and ties haven’t been damaged. Fleece or fine mesh netting is an ideal way of protecting vulnerable plants from severe frost. Our organic fruit and potato fertiliser may be sprinkled around fruit trees and bushes

Vegetables

Early varieties of potatoes should be chitted (laid out in trays and allowed to form short sprouts) in a cool, light, frost-free place ready for planting towards the end of March – this is proven to increase the yield of the tubers. In the greenhouse or under cover in a warm propagator, you can now begin to sow seeds of cabbage (summer/autumn maturing), celery, parsley, sweet and cayenne pepper, tomato, leek and onion. Outdoors (under cloches or in a cold frame) you can sow early varieties of carrot, such as Amsterdam Forcing, broad bean, such as The Sutton, and parsnip. Shallots can also be planted out from the middle of the month. Remember asparagus crowns can be ordered now even though delivery may not be until late March/early April but it is a good time to start preparing the site where they are to grow, ensuring the ground has been dug thoroughly making sure it is free from weeds.

Fruit

Continue to plant soft fruit as the weather permits. Any uncompleted pruning of established fruit trees and bushes should be carried out straight away before growth commences, otherwise this year’s crop may be reduced. It is a good time to prune sideshoots back to two or three buds on trained gooseberries. Rhubarb crowns should be covered with buckets which will help to encourage early pickings, also lift and separate any congested clumps.

Outdoor grape vines should be pruned so that last year’s fruited shoots will be shortened therefore encouraging new growth.

Remove any branches getting in the way and prune large apple and pear trees. Also, check any fruit you have stored and remove those that show signs of rot or deterioration.

Flowers

Sowings can be made in a propagator, in a heated greenhouse or on a windowsill at a temperature of approximately 21ºC (70ºF) of many summer bedding plants, such as geranium, petunia, impatiens (busy lizzie) and nicotiana along with some perennials. Take care not to sow too thickly or over-water as this can lead to the seedlings damping off (small patches of them suddenly dying for no apparent reason). Many people find that its best to pour the seed into the palm of their hand first, rather than sowing it directly from the packet.  If seed is very fine, it can be mixed with silver sand to make it easier to sow thinly and evenly across the surface of the compost.

During this month cuttings may be taken from chrysanthemums that have been over-wintered.

Remember to regularly deadhead pansies, primulas along with other winter/spring bedding plants as, depending on the temperature, you may find they flower at varying times. Also by removing faded flowers this will help to prevent seeds setting which in turn reduces flower performance.

As amaryllis are now in full bloom, or will be very soon, the plants should be watered once or twice a week. This should be done by standing the pot in a saucer of water, allowing the plant to take as much as required, and so that the roots do not remain in the water after approximately half an hour remove the pot from the saucer and throw any water that is left away. Amaryllis are best kept on a windowsill as they prefer warm and light conditions. A liquid feed could also be given once a week as this will contain necessary nutrients.

Any shrubs or flowers that may have become too large for where they are at present can be moved to a new position during February.

Prune back hardy summer-flowering clematis as rapid new growth will be produced during spring which will carry new flowers later in the year.

Early flowering bulbs such as alliums and dutch iris that were planted last autumn should be coming into their own during this month. Anemone tubers should be soaked overnight so that they can absorb water which encourages them to expand. They can then be planted in pots for an early display. Alternatively plant outside in March or early April.

A minimum temperature of 4ºC (40ºF) should be maintained for tender plants such as fuchsias. Plants should be checked over at least once a week removing any dead leaves or flowers which will cut down the risk of fungal disease. Shoots that may have started to rot should be trimmed back to healthy growth. Keep compost almost dry making sure there is good air circulation for the plants – a fan heater may help in doing this!

Clumps of perennials can be divided with the healthy young outer portions being replanted into freshly prepared soil – this should only be carried out in milder areas of the country.

Towards the end of the month start begonia tubers into growth, in trays of compost at a temperature of 15ºC (60ºF). Previously grown tubers with any dead foliage still remaining should be cleaned off and then the tubers repotted in fresh compost. Water them in and a temperature of about 16ºC (60ºF) should be kept. It’s also a good time to plant new tubers of begonias and gloxinias.

Carry on planting up lilies in pots, ideally five bulbs of the same variety to a 25cm (10”) pot, and terracotta pots are more sturdy for when the tall flower spikes develop. If you haven’t already, it’s not too late to order – we have a great range of varieties on offer (see our bulb section for more information).

Lawns

As milder weather conditions arrive, weeds will start to grow on areas of ground already prepared in preparation for sowing a new lawn – they should be brought under control before sowing begins in April. On existing lawns, brush off any unsightly wormcasts with a stiff broom, besom or rake. If you haven’t already done so, now is a good time to get your lawnmower serviced.

Birds

Also if you have a floating pond heater continue using it to prevent ice from forming over the entire surface of your pond.

Providing a supply of food for birds, such as a special wild bird food mix, would be appreciated, at this time of year especially if the weather stays cold and unsettled. Remember though to place out of reach of cats.

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In Your Garden This Month

Nov 2

Posted by Sue in In Your Garden Now

There is always a chance of frost in November which could very well bring an end to your summer displays. Now is a good time to insulate greenhouses with material such as Bubble Film which will save on those fuel costs. Crop protection should also be thought about and either Envirofleece or Enviromesh will prove useful.

Vegetables

Sowings can be made outdoors of broad bean Aquadulce Claudia, the variety The Sutton can also be sown now but must be given the protection of cloches. Continue planting suitable varieties of garlic such as Solent White until the middle of the month. Crowns of globe artichoke should be protected from frost by wrapping straw around the base of the plants. For an early variety of mangetout pea the variety Oregon Sugar Pod can be sown under cloches this month. However, if in colder areas it might be worth waiting until spring to make sowings. Potted up herbs should be brought indoors for the winter. Overcrowded clumps of chive can be lifted and divided. As this is such a useful herb for garnishes and flavouring all year round why not grow small clumps in pots on the kitchen windowsill. For a continuous supply of lettuce crops during winter plant varieties, such as Rosetta and Vaila-Winter Gem, in pots, borders or growbags and grow on in a warm greenhouse.

Protect outside crops with either Envirofleece, which is very popular with vegetable enthusiasts, or Enviromesh which acts as a barrier to garden pests as well as providing some frost protection.

POTATO BLIGHT – Warm, damp, humid weather favours the spread of Potato Blight. The first symptoms seen are brown or blackish irregular patches on the leaves which quickly spread resulting in all the foliage collapsing. If damp, humid conditions continue the disease quickly spreads to neighbouring plants. If the crop is well advanced the loss of the potato crop can often be prevented by removing all the dead foliage as soon as  possible to prevent the spores washing down to the tubers. To reduce the risk of attack in warm, damp, humid weather conditions spray the plants with Bordeaux Mixture or Dithane 945 at 14 day intervals.

Fruit

Soft fruit can be planted in prepared ground that has well rotted manure or garden compost incorporated. Canes that provided fruit of blackberries this year can be pruned to soil level and new ones tied into their place. Canes that are very long should be trained back down towards the soil or, to ensure the stem of the longest length is left, wind this in circles. Tips of canes may be buried in the soil to root which will then form new plants. Ripe apples should be picked and, depending on the variety, either be eaten or stored in a cool, dry place until perfect. Grease bands can be wrapped around fruit trees.

Bulbs

Planting spring bulbs should be completed as early in the month as possible, ensuring they are planted at the correct depth. Should their final planting space not be quite prepared, then why not plant the bulbs in large pots and then they can be planted out at a later date. Bulbs such as crocus, tulip and narcissi should all be planted into bowls by now for placing in a cool situation, given cover protection from any heavy rain so that development can begin.

Flowers

Early sowings of geranium seed can be made, remembering to provide a minimum temperature of 15ºC (60ºF) that should be maintained for growing on the plants. Sowings can also be made of cactus and strelitzia. Cut down and lift dahlias and cannas once the top foliage has been frosted. Pot chrysanthemums should be kept moist and remember to deadhead regularly as this will keep the flowers coming. Remove cyclamen leaves that are yellowing along with faded flowers by pulling them from the corm, however, to prevent leaves from turning yellow keep in a cool, light place. Plants that flower over winter must continue to be watered, but remember to cut down on the watering for other subjects.

Borders

Perennial plants that are past their best should be cut right down, remembering to clear away all remains and added to the compost heap. Why not plant wallflowers in the spaces left as they will give strong, bright colour, or tulips could be planted amongst the wallflowers to give a good contrast of colour. Of course, any suitable perennials or shrubs could always be planted instead.

Lawns

If weather conditions are still mild and the grass is still growing give it a light trim; also continue to remove any fallen leaves that have blown onto the lawn. A handy piece of equipment to have for removing leaves (plus other garden debris) not only from the lawn but paths, between plants etc is the ‘Electric Blower/Vacuum’. A hollow-tined aerator can be used for spiking lawns and grit can be brushed into the holes for improved drainage. Keep off the lawn if soil conditions are wet or frosty.

General

If you didn’t manage to give the outside of the greenhouse a wash down last year, it would prove very worthwhile to try and do it on a warm day during this month removing any algae and grime that has built up preventing light getting to the plants inside. The use of a hosepipe, using a slow spray, and brush washer on each glazed panel would prove ideal for this job. It’s also a good idea to insulate greenhouses by using bubble air insulation film. Retaining warmth in the greenhouse is important so it is best to close vents by mid-afternoon.

As temperatures drop houseplants should be watered less frequently. It’s also advisable that plants being over-wintered under-glass are checked regularly to make sure they are keeping healthy and free from disease, which can be done by removing any dead flowers along with leaves that may become discoloured.

Clean and disinfect pots and trays ready for next season. Plan your garden for next year, order plants and seeds early to avoid disappointment.

As temperatures start to fall birds will appreciate regular feeding.

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Brilliant Busy Lizzie

Oct 14

Posted by JJohnson in Flowers

busy lizzieI’m impressed.   These little plants have really lived up to their names!  They have flowered constantly through the summer and are still covered in flowers and buds - fantastic!  With most plants in the garden well and truly over, they really cheer you up.  I’ve always been a bit sniffy about old fashioned bedding plants, but I concede, they are really good value, and absolutely gorgeous too.

Speaking of impressive:  next door the Tarpan strawberries are still flowering with small fruits forming, and you may just be able to see in the lower left hand side that they are red too.  Now,  I have a question, should I allow them to keep going, or will they just get exhausted and not fruit so well next year?  Any strawberry experts out there with advice?

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In your garden this August

Aug 7

Posted by Sue in In Your Garden Now

Relax, enjoy the weather and your garden even though there are jobs still to be done to keep it looking good.

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

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. 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.

Patio Pots, Baskets and 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. Stems cuttings can also be taken for propagating.

We have again experienced a very wet period this summer and we have received a number of reports from gardeners who are having the same problem. The exceptional weather has again led to impatiens being attacked by the fungal disease Downy Mildew. This disease appears to be widespread throughout the country and more severe in wet seasons. Unfortunately there are no chemical controls available for this disease. Infected plants should be lifted immediately and any fallen leaves picked up and placed in the bin. Infected plants should not be composted as this could lead to the spores being reintroduced to the soil.

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!

 

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