A Capital Gardens Magazine
Capital Gardens
Summer 2013
Bringing your garden to life
Free
E IV US ERS CL EX UCH
VO IDE S IN
Edition
Content
4 The Peoples Park Alexandra Palace Celebrates its 150th year this summer, we learn about the palace and its up and coming celebration event 6 Plants at a Glance Our editor’s favourite plants for this season 7 The Humble Rose Nursery man John Hoyland talks about the roses and their uses in the garden 8 My Garden We peak inside the garden of Professor Stefan Buczacki 10 Plant of the Month Our editor picks his plant of the season 11 Lavender Cup Cake Recipe Lavender has many uses but few people know that it can be used to make delicious cup cakes 12 Herbal Healing Lynne Allbutt shares her thoughts on the healing properties of herbs 14 A Perfect Plan Garden Designer Melanie Wand has created a planting plan called the London Border 16 Outdoor Living Colourful picnic choices 17 Special Offers A selection of great special offers and money off vouchers 18 Richard Reynolds' Column Richard talks about where it all began
A note from the
Editor
Win a free BBQ worth £99.99 We are giving away two Black + Blum Hot Pot BBQ’s worth £99.99 each. Simply solve our little riddle and email your answers to competitions@capitalgardens.co.uk
The summer issue of the Plants & Gardens Magazine is our most feature packed issue to date. We have teamed up with Garden Designer Melanie Wand to create The London Border, a border plan specifically designed for London style gardens. The final design will look stunning once the plants mature.
Competition
We have some fantastic prizes and coupons for our customers in this issue. Black & Blum have kindly given us 2 hot Pot BBQ’s worth £99.99 and a beautifully designed lunch box. We know that everyone loves a good deal, and in this issue we have a great money off vouchers for all our readers. There are 3 vouchers one to be used each month. Samuel Dontoh
Question An accurate clock shows 8 o'clock in the morning. Through how may degrees will the hour hand rotate when the clock shows 2 o'clock in the afternoon? A 144º B 150º C 168º D 180º
Editor’s Picks… Hot Pot BBQ £99.99
Weber Fire Pit
Burger Press £12.99
Weber T Brush £9.99
The Black + Blum Hot Pot BBQ is one of those items which will have people thinking, why didn't I think of that. Such a simple yet ingenuous way to turn BBQ into an all year round garden item. The grill lies concealed beneath a herb garden. Available at selected stores.
The Weber Fire Pit is designed only for garden & outdoor use and offers warmth and light for relaxing evenings with friends or a cheeky glass of wine with your other half in the garden. Use our discount code to get it for only £122.99 instead of £149.99 at www.capitalgardens.co.uk
This little gadget from Weber is ideal for home made burgers, mix your mince with onions, herbs and spices then pop the mix in and press down for the perfect pattie. It also has 2 markers for 1/4 pound and 1/2 pound patties. Whilst stocks last.
The Weber Barbecue T Brush is perfect for deep cleaning your barbecue and helps you reach between the bars and narrow places at the edges of the cooking surface. It also features slow-towear bristles that don't scratch the porcelain enamel on your BBQ.
Discount code Discount Code: BERKPROM
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View from Alexandra Palace
LONDON LIFE
THE PEOPLE’S PARK O
n 23 July 1863, Alexandra Park opened to the public with a fanfare boating lake with pedalos, a soft play area, a skate park, a farmers market, the Garden of fun spread over a number of days. In true Victorian style the Centre and a number of cafés where visitors can soak up the natural beauty of this Park was awash with an array of entertainment delighting everyone unspoilt landscape. who attended. Activities tempted visitors to try their luck at archery, take tips from experts at a horticultural fete, listen to bands playing live music The People’s Park celebrates 150 years of the extraordinary! and meander along the curving informal walkways designed by renowned Alexandra Park welcomes visitors from near and far to come and help celebrate 150 landscape architect Alexander McKenzie. years of the extraordinary! On 21 July 2013 from 11-4pm, the Park will be awash Since opening, Alexandra Park’s visitors have been spoilt for choice. The with family activities, entertainment and excitement to delight all. Bringing together Park has continued to enchant park-goers with the past, present and future, Alexandra Park’s an abundance ‘of the extraordinary’. There has This year, 150 years after opening, celebration is sure to go down as one of the greatest been a miniature Japanese Village, ornamental outdoor events of the year! walkways, a deer park, archery, a dry ski slope, Alexandra Park remains true to its Duncan Wilson OBE, Chief Executive for Alexandra croquet, a boating lake, a band stand, cycle and Victorian spirit. Its 196 acres of Park and Palace said: “What we really hope our historic horse racing tracks, a permanent circus, a Grade II listed parkland has a Green celebration will achieve is to provide everyone from all diving pavilion and even an encampment of Flag and Green Heritage Award, over London, whether they have visited Alexandra Park Laplanders! before or not, with a day of family fun.” This year, 150 years after opening, Alexandra holds a silver gilt award for London This ‘celebration of the extraordinary’ will include Park remains true to its Victorian spirit. Its 196 in Bloom, is on the English Heritage community games, local live music and roaming acres of Grade II listed parkland has a Green Register of Parks and Gardens of performers, food concessions, a farmers market, Flag and Green Heritage Award, holds a silver tethered balloon rides, pedalo races, a Red Bull gilt award for London in Bloom, is on the Special Historic Interest in England Soapbox showcase and much much more. English Heritage Register of Parks and and has been designated as a Duncan continues: “We want to celebrate the Park’s Gardens of Special Historic Interest in Conservation Area. astonishing history and exquisite parkland which is England and has been designated as a accessible to the public all year-long, and recognise the Conservation Area. From its hilltop location you can take in stunning abundance of local talent we have around us.” panoramic views of London whilst overlooking formal flowerbeds and For more information about the day’s activities rolling lawns edged with wild woodlands which continue to be a source of history, adventure and imagination for those who venture into them. The visit the Alexandra Palace website: Park is home to a pitch and putt course, a cricket club, a deer enclosure, a
www.alexandrapalace.com
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www.capitalgardens.co.uk
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3L Only £7.99
Bush
3L Only £7.99
Bush
Bush Rhapsody in Blue 3L Only £9.99
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Amber Queen
Iceberg
Glance
3L Only £9.99
Roses at a
There are over 100 species of Roses and there are over 30,000 varieties. Roses have one of the most complicated family tree of any known flower species. They form a group of plants that can be erect shrubs, climbing or trailing with stems that are often armed with sharp prickles. Flowers vary in size and shape and are usually large and showy.
Shrub Jacqueline Amber Queen Du Pre
This summer we have some wonderful varieties available. Here our editor has selected the must have Roses of this summer.
3L Only £10.99
Climbing
Alissar Princess of Phoenica
3L Only £10.99
Climbing Arthur Bell
Shrub
3L Only £9.99
Climbing Alfred Carniere
Ena Harkness
John Hoyland
Jacqueline Du Pre
A plantsman at Pioneer Nurseries in Letchworth – where his keen eye was drawn inexorably to the town’s famous roundabout. An award winning garden writer he is also Garden Advisor at Glyndebourne.
PLANT OF THE MONTH
THE HUMBLE ROSE I
t is not surprising that the rose is the favourite plant of British gardeners. With gorgeous flowers, full of beauty and romance, they come in a range of colours, many with scented blooms and many producing attractive hips in the autumn; they can be grown in borders, containers, over arches, pergolas and as groundcover; they are easy to grow and are long-lived and there are varieties that thrive in deep shade as well as full sun. What more could anyone ask of a plant? There are thousands of different roses available and, increasingly, modern varieties are being bred for ease of growth, free flowering, pest and disease resistance. There are so many varieties available that it is possible to find a rose for any situation in the garden – up a shady north-facing wall, through a floriferous herbaceous border, or pots on a sunny patio. There are several distinct groups of roses:
Ramblers are very vigorous and are sometimes used to clamber through trees.
Roses for training over pergolas
Groundcover roses: low-growing and spreading roses that are ideal for ground cover, down slopes or banks or for quickly covering unsightly areas.
‘Compassion’. Double flowers, perfumed, repeat flowering; pink flowers with an apricot hue. Height 2.4m (8ft).
Standard roses: tall-stemmed roses make attractive centrepieces or even a small avenue in borders. They can also be grown in large pots.
‘Golden Showers’. Double, scented yellow roses. Re-flowers later in the year. Height 2.1m (7ft).
Climbing roses for shady walls
‘Penny Lane’. Tight buds and peachy-pink flowers that have a sweet perfume. Flowers all summer long. Height 3m (10ft).
‘Alberic Barbier’. Flowers buttery cream, apple fragrance, some repeat flowering. Height up to 6m (20ft).
Roses for making a hedge
‘Mme Alfred Carrière’. Large, pure white flowers with sweet scent. Flowers throughout the summer. Height 6m (20ft).
Shrub/English roses: bushy, low-maintenance roses, usually with large flowers. Plant singly or in groups in borders together with other shrubs and herbaceous perennials.
‘Félicité et Perpétue’ Sprays of small white flowers, buds tinged red. Height 5m (17ft).
Patio and miniature roses: average 45cm high, ideal for low hedging, containers or rockeries.
‘Kiftsgate’. Slightly fragrant, creamy white flowers. Very vigorous, so only plant where there is lots of space. Height 10m (30ft). Rosa banksii. Thornless stems and sprays of yellow or white flowers pom-pom flowers in late spring. Evergreen foliage. Height up to 6m (20ft).
Climbing/rambling roses: good for covering walls, fences or growing over arches, pillars and pergolas.
Very vigorous roses for covering walls or sheds
‘Cornelia’. Double flowers, fragrant apricot-pink blooms. Repeat flowering. Height 1.5m (5ft). ‘Zephrine Drouhin’. Semi-double flowers, scented carmine pink flowers. Thornless stems and repeat flowering. Height 3m (10ft). Roses for ground cover ‘Nozomi’. Single pink flowers in mid summer. Spreads to about five feet wide. Height 30cm (1ft). ‘Surrey’. Double pink blooms from early summer until late autumn. Height 60–90cm (2-3ft) and spread 90cm-1.2m (3-4ft).
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Professor Stefan Buckzaacki has appeared on BBC Radio's 'Gardeners' Question Time' as panellist and chairman for a unique unbroken run of over 600 broadcasts in twelve years, just part of a portfolio of well over 1,000 radio programmes.
Professor Stefan Buczacki’s garden www.capitalgardens.co.uk
My Garden We take a look into Professor Stefan Buczacki’s garden and find out what inspired its design Tell us about your garden, what inspired the design? It is a one acre amalgam with elements from practically every garden I have seen and liked; a blend of the formal close to the house gradually becoming less and less formal the further away one goes, culminating with the wild life garden at the furthest point. Who designed your garden, what was your brief? I did; with my own brief to produce something attractive and productive for me and my family but including a little of many things to illustrate the numerous television programmes that have been filmed here. Do you get your hands dirty or leave maintenance to the professionals? I do as much as I can myself – one or two days a week on average in total; but with horticultural students doing the tasks I do not have time for. What plant do you feel should be used more often by gardeners? Smyrnium perfoliatum; a splendid self-seeding biennial green-yellow umbellifer, often mistaken for a Euphorbia. Who/what inspired you to start gardening? My father who gave me a small garden area of my own at a very young age. We love roses at Capital Gardens, do you have a top tip for caring for them? Feed them like fury; and if you have a light soil, do not expect too much from them – about fifteen years is about all you can reasonably hope for; after that you will be flogging a dead horse. Which gardens inspire you? Almost any fine British garden, especially the more formal. Above all, perhaps Hidcote which is only a few miles from my home and is the most important English garden of the twentieth century. www.capitalgardens.co.uk 9zzzz
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Lavender
F
Plant of the Month
ew plants have proved to be as useful, fragrant and healthful as the delicate yet versatile lavender. Originating in the region from the Mediterranean down through
Eastern Africa and into Southwest Asia and through southeast India, lavender has long been prized for its unique medicinal properties.
Through out the world lavender is still used medicinally, but there are dozens of other uses for this purple wonder. At Capital Gardens we have a wide range of Lavender, why not pop down to your local Capital Gardens store to see our wonderful collection of what in my opinion is the ultimate plant. Lavender prices start at ÂŁ3.99 for a 1 Litre pot. www.capitalgardens.co.uk
Lavender Cup Cakes
Lavender is not only stunningly beautiful, it is also an extremely versatile herb. From its healing properties to is use in a vast array of recipes, lavender is a must have herb in and out of the kitchen.
1 cup = 250ml
For the 12 cup cakes: | | | | | | | | | |
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened 1 cup sugar 2 eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 teaspoon red and 1 teaspoon blue food colouring* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 1/2 tablespoons dried lavender buds 2/3 cup cold milk
For the frosting: | | | | |
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 4 cups powdered sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 2 tablespoons honey, plus a little extra for drizzle
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line muffin tins with cupcake liners. In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and sugar together. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each egg. Stir in the vanilla and food colouring. In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Chop the dried lavender buds into fine, small pieces. Stir into the flour mixture. Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture. Stir in the milk. Scoop batter evenly into lined muffin tins. Bake for 18-24 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Let cupcakes cool in the tins for 5-10 minutes, then remove to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the frosting: In the large bowl of an electric mixer, beat the butter and cream cheese together. Add the powdered sugar 1 cup at a time, mixing
on low, until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Beat in the vanilla extract and honey. Scoop frosting into a piping bag fitted with a 1M tip. To create the flower, begin in the center of the cupcake’s surface, and slowly swirl in wider circles. (It might be helpful to practice on a piece of parchment paper first, then you can just add the frosting back to the bowl.) You can also simply spread the cream cheese frosting over the top of the cupcakes with a knife. Lightly drizzle a little honey on top of the frosting and enjoy!
*Note: If you prefer a lighter colour, begin with 1/4 teaspoon of the red and blue and continue adding drops of each until you achieve the colour you want. You can also use purple food colouring.
Lavender is available at all Capital Gardens centres from ÂŁ1.99 www.capitalgardens.co.uk 11zzzz
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Lynne Allbutt The ever enthusiastic outdoorist Lynne Allbutt discusses the healing properties of some of Britain’s most loved herbs.
Herbal Healing www.capitalgardens.co.uk
Lynne’s Top Five Healing Herbs Matricaria recutita
Lavandula angustifolia
Rosmarinus officinalis
Lavender is actually a member of the mint family and as well as having medicinal properties is also edible. Flowers and leaves can be used fresh, and both buds and stems can be used dried. Lavender can also be substituted for rosemary in many bread recipes. It is a fabulous plant for the garden too; it looks great, is loved by bees, butterflies and other insects and is easy to grow. Just the fragrance of lavender can ease restlessness, insomnia, nervousness and depression. Plant it next to a bench, to border a path or even keep a pot indoors on a windowsill. A pot of lavender in the house will help keep flies out and if the leaves are crushed and rubbed onto the skin, it will repel mosquitoes and midges.
Rosemary has a long herbal tradition as a herb that improves concentration, focus and memory. Greek students would braid Rosemary into their hair to help them with examinations and tests. Also a valuable culinary herb, rosemary can withstand long cooking times and therefore lends itself well to roasted meats, chicken and hearty stews. A few teaspoons of chopped rosemary lends a tangy taste to biscuits as well. Threading veggies or meat onto rosemary skewers will add flavour when cooked on a BBQ. The prostrate varieties make great ground cover.
Mentha
Calendula officinalis
Allbutt’s Almanac 2013
Mint is an excellent remedy for reducing symptoms related to digestion. Make a tea out of fresh or dried leaves for a tasty and refreshing after-dinner stomach soother or zingy start to your Nulla Vestibulum day. There are three chief species of mint in cultivation and general use: Spearmint (Mentha viridis) normally used in cooking, Peppermint (M. piperita) often referred to as King of all mints and Pennyroyal (M. pulegium). Mint can be very invasive in flowerbeds so is best grown in containers and can also be grown in hanging baskets. .
, also known as pot marigold or garden marigold, and has been used for centuries to heal wounds and skin irritations. In the garden Calendula repels many common pests including aphids, eelworms, asparagus beetles and tomato hornworms, and is an ideal companion plant for potatoes, beans, and lettuce. The fresh vibrant petals can be used to colour butter, cheese, custards or sauces also sprinkled over salads, cakes, and added to sandwich fillings. It grows quickly and is easy to cultivate from seed and this is a must-have for any garden!
A wonderful book full of inspirational ideas. With great topics such as: ● How Viagra can boost your ‘flower power’ ● The secret behind red daffodils
Chamomile has been used for centuries in teas as a mild, relaxing sleep aid, treatment for fevers, colds, stomach ailments and menstrual cramps to name only a few therapeutic uses. The plant's healing properties come from its daisy like flowers, which can also be added to hot water to make a vapour, alleviating cold symptoms or asthma and promoting general relaxation and stress relief. Chamomile can be planted in your lawn and is particularly effective under a washing line or bench as the fragrance is released as you walk on it crushing the leaves. Chamomile tea is a very relaxing drink and can also be used cold in a compress to help soothe tired, irritated eyes.
And much, much more… Available at www.lynneallbutt.co.uk
All herbs listed in the article are available from your local Capital Gardens centre. www.capitalgardens.co.uk 13
MelanieWand Melanie Wand is a London based garden designer with over 20 years of experience. She is passionate about creating gardens which are visually pleasing, practical and easy to look after.
Visit Melanie's website at www.melaniewand.co.uk
London Gardens
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A PERFECT
e all fall victim to impulse buying at some stage, whether it’s that ‘must-have’ pair of shoes that never went with anything in your wardrobe; or the kitchen gadget you couldn’t live without yet could never figure out how or when to use! Strangely enough it’s the same with plants. How often have we been seduced by some gorgeous specimen plant that looked attractive in the garden centre but simply wrong when we got it home? Maybe it grew too large, never grew at all, or even worse did not survive beyond the season, as the aspect or soil were just not suitable.
Plan
years, just like that classic little black number you will these two contrasted with the softness of the Armeria never live without! and Artemsia will perfectly compliment one another in the composition.
COLOUR-Blue White Silver
I find as many London gardens can tend to be on the slightly small side then blue, white and silver is a very useful colour combination when it comes to tackling this. It works because light colours recede against the dark giving the impression of more space. The and Salvia spires combination of the blue will enhance the silver grey foliage of the demonstrating this perfectly. Blue is supposed to have a profoundly calming effect so is ideal for that after Luckily for you, here at Capital Gardens they don’t work ‘kick back and relax’ drink in the garden. want you to fall foul of the ‘ Impulsive - I’d love one of those’ condition either. They want their plants to STRUCTURE harmonize and thrive in your garden. So for this I always think a structural component or two is vital issue I have come up with a planting plan which will when using muted colours, so I have gone for not only give you a super summer display but should and . I also like contrasting stand the test of time and see you through for a few shapes and texture, for this reason the spikyness of Zzzz
www.capitalgardens.co.uk
ASPECT AND SOIL I have suggested a small bed 3.75 m x 1.75m with a sunny, south or south west aspect. I am assuming the soil, as with most London gardens will have a propensity to clay. A good mulch before planting would be useful to help retain moisture.
WOW FACTOR In a word- the white Delphiniums
OVERALL VIEW Perhaps not quite ‘all year round’ interest, but the and are evergreen and the in a dry year will look gorgeous right through to February, at which point you should cut it down and it will start all over again.
This border was designed by Garden Designer Melanie Wand | The London Border: A space aware border ideal for gardens where space is an issue..
Artemisia stelleriana
Panicum virgatum 'Heavy Metal'
Armeria maritima 'Ballerina White'
Liriope muscari 'Big Blue'
Salvia nemerosa 'Caradonna'
This deciduous ornamental fountain-like grass is renowned for its steely coloured bluegrey to blue-purple leaves, which form stiff, upright clumps that turn yellow in autumn.
This compact, dwarf plant produces stunning globeshaped blooms. With its long-lasting bloom time regular deadheading is required. It is one of the standout pieces of the border.
An extremely useful plant, which will tolerate a range of conditions including dry shade and drought. Dark green, blade-like leaves provide yearround interest. A great all rounder.
A great garden plant! This salvia flowers with spikes of violet-blue from June to October and is a magnet for butterflies and bees, with its stunning grey-green, aromatic foliage.
Plant list 'Heavy Metal' x. 'Jos Eijking' 'Ballerina Whit e’ 'Big Blue' 'Caradonna'
7. 8.
‘Guardian White’ ‘Summer Sky’
In autumn plant some white tulips to grow through the Artemisia. The solid shape of the tulip flower will contrast well with the lacy foliage of the Anthemis and give you some Spring interest before the summer show.
Plants form a spreading mat of bright silvery-white scalloped leaves. Terrific for edging, groundcover, or in mixed containers, even hanging baskets. They are ideal for borders.
The 'Guardian' delphinium is fast becoming a favourite amongs our customers, as they are known to produce a uniform display earlier in the year than many other types.
Agastache 'Summer Sky' Blooms all summer with glowing violetblue flowers with dark calyces which extend the showy season. A compact habit with bright green foliage and is drought tolerant. Making it a great low maintanace plant.
RRP £308.58 Get all 42 plants in this plan for only £262.30
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Melanie’s Top Tip
Delphinium ‘Guardian White’
Bring your copy of the Plants & Gardens magazine with you to get this discount.
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Eryngium x. 'Jos Eijking'
Change Your Outlook with stylish, simple solutions Melanie Wand Garden Designs Helping you to make the most of your garden
Editor’s Choice This delightful sea holly has long lasting, bright metallic-blue flowers that arrive in mid to late summer and usually last well into the autumn. They are ideal for dense borders.
Call 077 100 37002
www.melaniewand.co.uk
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Outdoor ing
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1. Wall’s Ice Cream Tumblers Colourful, fun and nostalgic the iconic Walls brand has been brought to life across a range of outdoor living products that will appeal to all ages. Split, Twister, Starship 4 and Twister available. Sold individually for £3.99 2. Wall’s Ice Cream Bowls
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These colourful melamine bowls will bring a taste of nostalgia back to your table. Both kids and adults will love these four designs. Split, Twister, Starship 4 and Twister available. Sold individually for £4.50 3. Wall’s Ice Cream 20L Cool Bag
5. Summerhouse Coastal Duffle Cool Bag 15L A classic insulated bag for picnics and camping, with carry handles, a detachable shoulder strap and a handy outer pocket. £19.99 6. Summerhouse Coastal Fleece Blanket In a cool summery stripe, the Coastal Fleece Blanket from Summerhouse is perfect for picnics: a soft fleecy top and waterproof underside mean you can unroll it on damp grass and not worry about anything soaking through. £16.99
The Wall's ice cream brand has been brought to life on a range of highly nostalgic outdoor products designed to appeal to kids and adults alike. This cooler bag features a selection of favourite Wall's ice creams including the Twister, the Feast, and the Split. £19.99
7. Wall’s Ice Cream Sundae Glass
4. Summerhouse Coastal Breton Stripe Cool Bag 20L
8. Summerhouse Soda Style Jug
The bag features a heat sealed compartment for keeping food and drink chilled throughout the day. Use of ice packs will enhance the performance of this bag. The bag folds away and has a shoulder strap for easy carrying. £19.99
www.capitalgardens.co.uk
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With classic Retro styling these Sundae glasses are ideal for old school style Knickerbocker glories. Available in Blue, Orange and Pink. £3.99
This stylish soda jug co-ordinates perfectly with Navigate's collection of drink and partyware and is the ideal accessory to complete the look for summer. Available in lime, Aqua and Raspberry. £10.99
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Patio Rose 3L
Patio Rose 3L
Patio Rose 3L
Special offers
Special Price £5.99
Special Price £5.99 Happy Times
Yellow Dreams
Standard Rose 7.5L
Special Price £5.99 Snow Cap Our Experts Say When planting your roses you should be aware that using manure can burn the new roots of your rose bushes. Never use fresh manure on roses. It's much safer to use well-rotted compost for your roses to which some manure has been added. You can even use this to mulch your rose bushes after planting them. Roses should be always be planted with an application of mycorrhizal fungi available under the brand name ‘rootgrow™’.
Patio Roses Patio roses and many low-growing floribundas look great in containers. It is important to water them regularly as roses in containers tend to dry out more quickly than roses that have been planted in flower beds.
Special Price £19.99 Available in various colours
Top Gardeners Use The best rose care products hand picked by real gardeners.
Gardeners Top Picks Choose these products to get the best out of your roses. They will help keep pests away, boost root development and feed your roses to esnure the best bloom this summer.
Rose Clear Ultra Gun
Toprose 4kg
Rootgrow 250g
Miracle-Gro Rose Shrub Food
Ready to use hand sprayer that controls powdery mildew and bugs such as whitefly, blackfly, greenfly. RRP £6.92 £5.99
Britain's best-selling rose food - developed for ease of use and to keep product in perfect condition. RRP £11.79 £9.99
RootGrow enhances a plant root system so a newly planted plant finds more food, finds more water, needs less fertiliser. Our price £2.99
Specially formulated for roses and other shrubs these Miracle-Gro Slow Release Granules contain a special mix of nutrients. RRP £6.70 £5.99
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Get £3.50 off your shop when you spend £30 or more in a single transaction between 1/8/2013 - 31/8/2013 www.capitalgardens.co.uk 17zzzz
Richard Reynolds Richard Reynolds is a lovable rogue who’s passion for urban gardening is second to none. He is regarded as the godfather of guerilla gardening, and can often be seen in and around Elephant and Castle passionately carrying out maintenance to a once barren patch, which is now the estates garden.
LONDON LIFE
THE ESTATE WE’RE IN Written and photographed by Richard Reynolds, Founder of GuerrillaGardening.org t’s said an Englishman’s home is his castle, but it’s only true for a few. I’m one of them and my castle comes with an Elephant too. But unfortunately the estate that came with my castle was in a pretty shabby state, the neglected responsibility of Southwark Council. My home is at the top of a ten storey council tower block in the Elephant and Castle. Like more and more Londoners I’m a high riser, I have no garden that is my own. So nine year’s ago I began guerrilla gardening in the public land around my neighbourhood and I made the neglected beds my front garden. This is the story of The Guerrilla Gardens of Perronet House.
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turned environmental campaigner Daryl Hannah. But this attention turned the guerrilla battle a bit nasty.
Southwark Council’s contractors brutally attacked the garden in the height of summer 2007. They had been shamed into action by complaints from my neighbours who were paying annual charges for Southwark’s now infamous inaction. Unfortunately the contractors were hackers not gardeners, so I called for a truce and after several difficult meetings between council officers and I a peace agreement was signed. The treaty was a resounding victory for guerrilla gardening, they vindicated the approach by confirming that they would never have given permission had I asked first. They also refunded three years worth It began with a solo blitz late at night nearly nine years ago, this was no grand of their charges. However, a year later a particularly vicious council officer, makeover, just a small overhaul of one of the five raised beds. I cleared away the with the inappropriate name of Martin Green, figured out that Southwark detritus of Southwark Council’s regime of negligence and replaced it with some modest planting, a little experiment to see if they would survive – cyclamen, could get away with charging us for grounds maintenance regardless of their cordyline and lavender. My optimism was rewarded, so over the coming months I inaction around our block. It still frustrates me but neatly reflects the entire returned to add more (Japanese anemone, montbretia, sage and a rose ‘Margaret council’s indifference to informal community gardening. From the council Merril’) and cleared back some of the overgrown shrubs. With some obvious leader Peter John; right down to the contractors they employ, there is little colour and a sense of care to show for my efforts my confidence grew too; so I more than tolerance, when I want them to try encouragement. It’s in stark began gardening at times when I was more likely to strike up conversation with contrast to their co-operative neighbours in Lambeth; who have repeatedly neighbours and passers by. Those early chats were fascinating. This was in the welcomed me at council events where I can inspire both gardeners and officers days before guerrilla gardening had become well known, and many people just to embrace our informal, street-focused approach. Lambeth Council fully didn’t understand why I was doing it. While most were delighted, some were a understand the motivations of most guerrilla gardeners, they have made the little interrogating. Surely I was being paid? Why would I want to garden here, need to be a guerrilla gardener within their borough pretty much obsolete. It’s surely there was no pleasure in that? Was I a squatter? But gradually this changed. a brilliant development. Lambeth Council now have a scheme called Fresh View I had help one summer from some resident children who planted sunflowers, a that helps you create a pavement garden. neighbour helped me plant an apple tree, another donated coffee compost and we’d share the collection of wind blown litter. I even cheekily entered into a Meanwhile at Perronet House the gardens go from strength to strength. There Southwark Council ‘In Bloom’ award and they gave me a commendation as if it is now a mature mixed border of shrubs, fruit trees, herbaceous perennials and were my front garden – proving that their negligence even extends to accurate seasonal filler which has survived an attack from stunt cyclists a few years ago and fair judging. and an argument with a bin man who dumped the contents of one bin on the garden in anger. These are some of the occasional pests any gardener must The award came in very handy three summers later. By this time my gardens and tackle. We harvested our first apples last summer, which taste great. Today the the other guerrilla gardens I was tending elsewhere around the Elephant and lilac is in bloom, the wallflowers are even more fragrant and the ‘Port Sunlight’ Castle had become famous. Even Hollywood paid a visit in the form of actress rose and alliums are in bud. It’ll be the best year yet and thankfully it’s all still there for you to see next time you’re at the Elephant and Castle.
Zzzz
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Spoil Him he’s your Dad Spoil him with gifts that he will enjoy and cherish. Our Editor has selected a some perfect gifts with the keen gardener in mind.
FATHER’S DAY 16TH JUNE
The Perfect Gifts for
Father’s Day Zzzz20
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ENER THE REAL GARD
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THE ULTIMATE FATHERS DAY GIFT
EDITOR’S CHOICE
HUNTER GARDENER BOOTS The Hunter Gardener Boots are ideal for keen gardeners who seek comfort as well as style when gardening. The multi-layered cushioned sponge insole offers supreme comfort for hard working dads. £59.00
WEBER 47CM ONE TOUCH BBQ + GETTING STARTED KIT We have created the perfect ready to go BBQ kit, it includes everything you need to get started and makes for a great gift. Why not treat your Dad to the ultimate Fathers day gift. Getting Started Kit Includes Weber Vinyl BBQ Cover, 3kg Bag of Premium Briquettes, Fire-lighters, Chimney Starter - allows you to light the BBQ quickly. £139.99
CKAGE THE PERFECT PA YPASS KEW B RS + EU SECAT R HOLSTER E LEATH g gifts
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yin s to bu t it come verything, tha n e h W y is e ll n fu o ti ti u a ta this be teurs presen d e k ic ep eca is why w gift set. The s d on steel te b r n a e c s e h pr ig h m e fro trength are mad r increased s fo £26.99 blades, rpness a h s g n and lasti
FISKARS TELESCOPIC HAND SHEARS Whether trimming shrubs or bushes these hedge shears by Fiskars are perfect for those wanting precision and comfort. The blade itself is made by non other than Wilkinson Sword. Their high quality blades give you a precise, clean cut every time. Designed to be lightweight, powerful and comfortable to use. £39.99
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● 10" hardened steel blades for long lasting sharpness ● Blade tension adjuster for different width foliage ● Strong lightweight extruded aluminium handles ● Cushioned bumper to reduce strain and prevent jarring ● 10 year Guarantee www.capitalgardens.co.uk 21zzzz
Woods
Of Berkhamsted
What’s on
Water Irrigation Talk Saturday 1st June 11am Garden Centre Talk - Are you going away this summer but dreading returning back to a dying garden? Water Irrigation is the key to maintaining your garden whilst on holiday. Come down for a talk with our irrigation expert. Cost: Free
Hanging Basket Demonstration Saturday 8th June 11am Garden Centre Talk - Do you love hanging baskets but want to make your own from scratch? We have some innovative tips and ideas to inspire and educate you. Cost: Free
Antique Valuation Day With John Bly Saturday 6th July 10am-4pm Antiques Valuation Day - Find out the value of that treasured family heirloom. Bring it down and get it valued by antiques expert and Antiques Road Show veteran John Bly. Cost: £2 per valuation
Woods Summer Party Saturday 17th August 10am It’s Party Time - Join us for a day of face painting, delicious BBQ treats, refreshments, Balloon artist and much more. Fun for all the family. Cost: Free
Free prize for the first 50 visitors Visit us: 292-294 High Street, Berkhamsted, HP4 1BJ Call us: 01442 863 159
Private Sale
15% off everything*
Thursday 6th June 6pm-8pm Alexandra Palace Garden Centre Alexandra Palace Way N22 7BB
Woods of Berkhamsted Garden Centre High Street, Berkhamsted HP4 1BJ
Thursday 13th June 6pm-8pm Neal’s Nurseries Heathfield Road, Wandsworth SW18 2PH
Private Sale Invitation
15% off everything*
Thursday 20th June 6pm-8pm
Please remember to bring this invite to gain entry
Morden Hall Garden Centre Morden Hall Road Morden SM4 5JD
Win prizes worth up to £600 Free BBQ & Refreshments *Excludes gift vouchers, Calor gas and goods already marked for sale.
Web exclusive Yours for only £649.99 With Save Discount Code
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Your Local Capital Gardens Stores
Alexandra Palace Way N22 7BB
Heathfield Road Wandsworth SW18 2PH
:020 8444 2555 : 020 8874 2037
Morden Hall Road, Morden SM4 5JD : 020 8646 3002
Shop online at www.capitalgardens.co.uk
292-294 High Street, Berkhamsted HP4 1BJ 01442 863156