Cotswolds Issue No 186 JUNE 2022 FREE
www.countrygardener.co.uk
WILD THING! We are letting nature take its course as more gardens go wild and wonderful
PLUS:
Wisteria Q&A Understanding vegan gardening Containers galore
The mystique of Ancient Trees Wild meadow orchids June gardens opening for charity
Gardening news and events throughout the Cotswolds Win a pair of Backdoorshoes flip flops
Prepare for Summer AT THE GARDEN LOVERS GARDEN CENTRE A traditional garden centre that focusses on providing quality plants, garden products & giftware
On A423 Southam Road, Nr. Farnborough, Banbury OX17 1EL. Tel: 01295 690479 OPEN SIX DAYS A WEEK - Tues-Sat: 9am - 5.30pm Sun: 10.30am - 4.30pm ALSO OPEN BANK HOLIDAY MONDAYS
www.farnboroughgardencentre.co.uk
M40 LEAMINGTON SPA A425 STRATFORD UPON AVON
DAVENTRY
SOUTHAM A423
A422 BANBURY M40 J11
A361
Farnborough Garden Centre B4100 M40
CHIPPING NORTON
BICESTER
ROSS GARDEN STORE Looking for a different shopping experience? Look no further than Ross Garden Store!
A unique independent family run business nestled in the heart of Ross on Wye, a small market town on the banks of the river Wye in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Bursting with 100’s of seasonal plants all housed undercover, and with a shop full of unusual gifts you won’t see on the high street, this is a must see destination. The main shop is found within an historical “Brunel” designed “Engine Shed” building-formerly of the Great Western Railway, and houses a wonderful café serving homemade cakes, light lunches and their signature “cheese scones”. Great customer service, coupled with knowledgeable staff always willing to help.
Why wait - make it a date in the diary - you won’t be disappointed!
OPEN 7 DAYS PER WEEK 9am-5pm Mon-Sat 10am-4.30pm Sun Open Bank Holidays *café opening times differ
The Engine Shed, Station Approach, Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire HR9 7BW
01989 568999
www.rossgardenstore.com online@rossgardenstore.co.uk www.rossgardenstore.online
CUTTINGS
Gardeners cuttings
in the Cotswolds
A LOOK AT NEWS, EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS IN YOUR AREA
Beckford village opens its gardens for Jubilee weekend
Twenty three gardens to open in Langford
LANGFORD GARDENS OPEN DAY IS ON SUNDAY, JUNE 12TH The lovely gardens of Langford in West Oxfordshire are open to the public on Sunday 12th June, as part of the National Gardens Scheme. The stone walls of this ancient, quintessentially Cotswold village provide the perfect backdrop to the 23 sumptuous gardens which will be open, one of the largest collections of gardens to open in a single village this year. These vary from classic small cottage gardens to large formal designs and include the very restful garden created by the late Sir Hardy Amies, who for over 55 years dressed the Queen. Delicious home-made teas will be available in two locations and at one of these – Pember House - there will also be live music. There will be a plant stall, cakes for sale plus a floral display in the village’s grade 1 listed late Saxon church, St Matthews. Considered one of the most important churches in Oxfordshire, it features Saxon carvings including the famous Langford Rood. Entry to the combined gardens costs £7.50 per person and children’s admission is by donation. For further information contact Louise Findlay-Wilson on Tel: 01367 860104 Mob: 07909 963 655 Email: louise@energypr.co.uk
Bridewell open days weekend There’s a unique opportunity to see the work being done at Bridewell Gardens in Wilcote, the mental health recovery centre which works with nature to support people who have serious mental ill health. The centre has a gardens open day on Saturday, 18th June and Sunday, 19th June when there will be a pop up café, plants and produce for sale. Open 11am to 4pm with a suggested donation of £5. The Walled Garden, Wilcote, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire OX7 3DT
Sixteen gardens open for Bishampton’s big day Bishampton and District Gardening Club is holding its Garden Open Day on Sunday, 19th June. Sixteen gardens are planned to be open to visitors to enjoy. More details are available on 01386 462436 or from jan@janmoody.com. The club has two up and coming events, taking place at The Village Hall, Broad Lane WR10 2LY. On Wednesday, 1st June at 7.30pm, Howard Drury is speaking on ‘Climbing, Twining and Wall Shrubs’ And on Wednesday, 6th July there’s a talk by entitled ‘Four Seasons and a Festival’ from Adrian James of Langdale Garden, Offenham, a Worcestershire based garden photographer.
Garden lovers are invited to go along and enjoy a special weekend of open gardens, attractions and Jubilee celebrations in the friendly village of Beckford which sits in the shelter of Bredon Hill on the northern edge of the Cotswolds. Over the weekend of the 4th and 5th of June there will be 13 beautiful and very different gardens to explore. Refreshments served will include afternoon teas with homemade cakes, a champagne bar or barbecue on Saturday, hog roast on Sunday and ice creams. The historic church will be splendidly decorated with flower displays. Take a while to admire the unique Norman nave and carvings, and see the working scale model of the whole church reproduced in fine detail. Wander around the pretty Beckford Nature Reserve with its lake and bird hides where you can enjoy the tranquility and wildlife. Other highlights include a quiz trail for children, plant sales, classic cars, vintage radio display, locally made artisan glassware, preserves stall, tombola, raffle and more! The gardens and attractions are open from 1-5pm each day followed by family Jubilee celebrations from 5pm hosted by The Beckford Inn on Saturday and The Old Post Office on Sunday. Just off the A46 between Evesham and Tewkesbury, GL20 7AD Find out more at beckfordopenvillage.org.uk
COTSWOLDS CHASE GARDENS SHOW OFF THEIR NEW CREATIVE SPACES Cotswold Chase Gardens, in Brockworth, a group of small gardens all recently created on a new development, will open for the National Garden Scheme on Sunday 12th June. The gardens display a wide range of designs, planting and imaginative ideas that show what can be achieved in a short space of time. Cotswold Chase comprises 199 houses in a mix of styles, built between 2015 and 2017. The gardens on display demonstrate how enthusiastic garden owners have created different atmospheres with their own design and planting schemes in just a few years. The Chase is rich in open spaces which have been tastefully landscaped, with many foot/cycle paths, a sports field, children’s play areas and three wildlife friendly balancing ponds. There are lots of places to walk, take in the vistas such as Coopers Hill, and view some new gardens. The large public areas have been landscaped to maximise the feeling of openness. There are hundreds of newly planted trees which complement mature trees, many of which have bat and bird boxes installed. The gardens will be open from 2pm until 5pm on 12th June. Combined admission is £5, children free. Home-made tea and cake
www.countrygardener.co.uk
Enthusiastic gardeners have created different atmospheres
will be available at the MidGlos Bowls Club, where there’s parking, tickets, maps and WCs. Plants will be for sale, and there is access for wheelchairs. Cotswold Chase Gardens, Spinners Road, Brockworth, Gloucester, Gloucestershire GL3 4LR www.ngs.org.uk 3
Enjoy magical summer walks...
Old Court Nurseries & The Picton Garden The Michaelmas Daisy Specialists since 1906
amongst the beautiful wildflowers. Browse our fantastic range of plants, gardening supplies and gifts and soak up the sun from the deck of the Garden Terrace Café. A perfect day out for all the family – including the dog!
Specialist nursery and beautiful 1.5 acre garden just waiting to be explored CATALOGUE ONLINE OR AVAILABLE BY REQUEST
BOOK NOW FOR 2022 WORKSHOPS INCLUDING TERRARIUMS, FERNS, SUCCULENTS AND FLOWER ARRANGING. RING OR SEE WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS.
Book your Arboretum tickets online at www.batsarb.co.uk
Open Wednesday - Saturday, 11am-5pm
BATSFORD ARBORETUM AND GARDEN CENTRE Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire GL56 9AT.
Also open SUNDAY 19TH JUNE for the National Garden Scheme
Tel: 01386 701441 E: arboretum@batsfordfoundation.co.uk
Tel: 01684 540416 www.autumnasters.co.uk
BatsfordArboretum
@BatsfordA
@BatsfordA
Old Court Nurseries, Walwyn Road, Colwall WR13 6QE
SPRING INTO SUMMER for 2022
ORDER ONLINE OR CALL US:
www.flowershedtewkesbury.co.uk 01684 290288
Creating beautiful flowers for all occasions PLUS
Family-owned and managed “independent” Garden Centre, catering for all your gardening needs and so much more. Stockist of a wide range of well-known gardening brands and locally sourced plants, trees and shrubs.
Browns Garden Restaurant serving Breakfasts, Homecooked ‘Fresh’ lunches, Afternoon teas, cakes & treats.
chocolates, wine, gifts and balloons
SUNDAY ROASTS - BOOKING ADVISED FULLY LICENSED
FREE LOCAL DELIVERIES
01684 299996 info@brownsgardenrestaurant.co.uk Open Mon -Sat 9am-5.30pm, Sun 10am-4pm
Mythe. A38 Worcester Rd, Tewkesbury GL20 6EB
OPEN MAY BANK HOLIDAYS CHILDREN’S PLAY AREA FREE & AMPLE PARKING
T: 01684 293103 W: www.tewkesburygardencentre.com Worcester Road, Tewkesbury, Glos, GL20 6EB OPENING TIMES: 4
Mon-Sat 9am - 5.30pm, Sun 10am - 4pm (Closed Easter Sunday)
Find us on Facebook & Instagram
NEW ONLINE SHOP! Country Gardener
(WITHIN A 4-MILE RADIUS)
EMAIL: flowers@flowershedtewkesbury.co.uk
CUTTINGS
The benefits of a short stay at The Orders of St John Care Trust
Providing care for a loved one can be a highly demanding responsibility and carers need support and attention to maintain their own health and well-being. It is common for people to forget about themselves while caring for their loved one, and respite care provides caregivers the opportunity for a temporary break from their caring duties, and a chance to renew their energy. Families benefit hugely from these stays, and with the reassurance that your loved one is in a homely environment being looked after by a trained team, you can have some downtime and recharge your batteries. The team at The Orders of St John Care Trust will tailor your loved one’s care and activities to meet their needs and wishes. It’s important that short stay residents feel at home, so the whole team are informed that a new resident is staying, as they all have an important part to play in ensuring your loved one is happy, comfortable and enjoying themselves. So much so that many decide to come again, or even stay!
MIDSUMMER MUSIC IN THE GARDEN
June
Zeals
Hill Close Gardens, Warwick Details on 01926 493339
18TH/19TH OPEN GARDENS
1ST
12noon - 5pm
Bishampton Gardening Club
20TH
‘CLIMBING, TWINING AND WALL SHRUBS’ - HOWARD DRURY
If you’d like to know more about the benefits of a respite stay, call on 0800 988 8133 or visit www.osjct.co.uk
18TH
Gardening club events and meetings in the Cotswolds
Abbeydale Garden Club
Details on 01386 462436
‘A CLUTCH OF CHARITY GARDENS’ - ALUN WHITEHEAD
9TH
Details on 01452 540790
Alderton Gardening Club
21ST
‘NEW PLANTS FROM OLD’ - DAVE CROP
Lawn Gardening Club
www.aldertonvillage.co.uk/ alderton-gardening-club
‘DAISY DAYS’ - HELEN PICTON Details on 01793 523099
Cheltenham Horticultural Society
22ND
‘ISLAMIC GARDENS’ - NATALIE MIGNOTTE
Churchdown Horticultural Society
Details on 01242 691135
Gardens open day at Elkstone
MEMBERS’ ROSE & SWEET PEA SHOW
11TH/12TH
The Gloucestershire village of Elkstone celebrates its open gardens day on Sunday, 19th June from 2pm to 6pm. Organised and supported by villagers to raise funds for the upkeep of the local church and the Village Hall this event offers a unique opportunity to visit this very special Cotswold village and see it in detail not normally accessible to the casual visitor. Browse stalls, enjoy cream teas, homemade cakes or ice creams, and enjoy a tractor ride through farmland with sensational views. The church, the highest in the Cotswolds, is known for its unusual dovecote above the chancel and its quite exceptional Norman arches in the chancel and sanctuary bathed in golden light. It boasts a wonderful Norman tympanum above the south door. The bells, which date from 1657 to 1977, have recently been restored and retuned and they will ring out to celebrate the day. They hang on a working medieval bell frame which has recently been identified as of national historical significance and which you will be able to see on the day.
Email: churchdown.secretary@gmail.com
Hellens, Ledbury
26TH
HELLENS GARDEN FESTIVAL
Alcester
14TH
GARDEN WALKABOUT
Cricklade Garden Club
12noon - 6pm
‘BEING A 21ST CENTURY GARDENER’ - TIMOTHY WALKER
Details on 01789 764756
Details on www.crickladegardenclub.org.uk
‘Time Off’ set to return If your gardening club or association is getting back into full swing after the restrictions of the past couple of years be sure to let Country Gardener know. Send your club meetings and outings details to timeoff@countrygardener.co.uk
Car parking is free, Adults £5, children under 14 free assistant dogs only. www.elkstonevillage.com
Cotswolds double with Rare Plant Fairs at Waterperry Gardens and Rodmarton Manor BLENHEIM PALACE FLOWER SHOW IS BACK The Blenheim Palace Flower Show is back this and is set to be bigger and better than ever before! The show runs on Friday,24th June, Saturday,25th June and Sunday, 26th June. It’s the perfect place to discover your favourite plants, flowers and an array of gardening goodies from unique garden gazebos, greenhouses and arbours to beautiful flowers, gardening sundries and hundreds of other products. Tickets are now available from www. blenheimflowershow.co.uk/visitor-info/tickets/ Adults £20.50, children £10.50. Blenheim Palace Woodstock OX20 1PP
A busy programme of Rare Plant Fairs in June sees two events taking place in the Cotswold region. The first fair is at the iconic Waterperry Gardens, near Oxford, on Sunday, 12th June. Originally home to Beatrix Havergal’s famous School of Horticulture for Women, the teaching gardens have now been transformed into stunning ornamental gardens, including a rose garden, formal knot garden, a canal studded with waterlilies, and a 60m (200ft) herbaceous border.. The fair is open from 10am-4pm and adult admission, which includes access to the gardens, is £9.50. The Plant Fairs return to Rodmarton Manor, near Tetbury, on Sunday, 19th June. This Arts and Crafts manor house was built in the 1920’s and the garden, which was designed originally as a series of outdoor rooms, still retains the same layout. There is a wide selection of planting that has been done over the years with superb vistas and views throughout and plenty of places to sit and admire the view. Each part of this Gloucestershire garden has a different character ranging from the alpines in troughs, bigger plants in the rockery, lawns, a large kitchen garden, white borders, to the magnificent herbaceous borders which are constantly being replanted and improved. The fair is open from 11am-4pm and adult entry, which includes the gardens, costs £8. There is a great selection of specialist nurseries attending each of the fairs, all of whom are experts in the plants that they grow. Visit www.rareplantfair.co.uk for full details of the events, including a complete list of the exhibitors attending each one.
www.countrygardener.co.uk
5
CUTTINGS
Chipping Campden weekend promises a garden lover’s delight
COMMUNAL GARDENS AND SQUARES OPEN IN CLIFTON AND HOTWELLS
Chipping Campden is hosting gardens open weekend on Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th June from 2pm every day.
There’s a rare opportunity to visit the communal gardens and squares hidden behind the elegant terraces of Clifton and Hotwells, on Saturday, 11th June and Sunday, 12th June from 10.30am to 5pm with home-made refreshments, stalls, and entertainments. It’s a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of Clifton village and enjoy the beautiful formal gardens, woodlands and wild gardens most of which are rarely open to the public. This year the event will run the for the whole weekend, with at least two new gardens open at Clifton Hill House and Clifton Meadow. There will be a variety of refreshments and activities, including talks, conducted walks and a tree trail and the organisers are thrilled to be joined by two choirs. More information about opening times and individual gardens can be found at www.gssg-bristol.com/ Admission includes entry to all gardens on both Saturday and Sunday, a booklet and map (paper or electronic). In advance from Eventbrite (£6), on the day (£5) from 10.30am on Boyce’s Avenue and from selected gardens listed on the website (16’s and under free). Only assistance dogs are allowed in the gardens. The event is organised by Green Squares and Secret
Quenington hosts Fresh Air Sculpture event Fresh Air Sculpture is a contemporary sculpture and craft show taking place in the extensive gardens of The Old Rectory, Quenington, Gloucestershire from Sunday, 5th June until Sunday, 26th June. This biennial event prides itself on showcasing and selling unique sculptural pieces as well as decorative arts in a beautiful outdoor setting. Visitors have come to expect the traditional and the experimental, from moving and thought-provoking sculptures and detailed heritage craft, to the brightest of textiles and the glamour of glass. The venue welcomes over 10,000 art and garden enthusiasts who enjoy an enchanting atmosphere, the flora, the artworks, and the chance to relax with drinks and locally produced foods. Fresh Air Sculpture will bring over 130 modern pieces of outside sculptural work to this Grade II listed building with its expansive organic garden, in a tranquil setting, with the River Coln running through. The Old Rectory, Quenington, Cirencester GL7 5BN
It promises to be a great weekend with the chance to walk the historic and beautiful streets of Chipping Campden with private gardens open - large and small, all within walking distance. Approximately 20 gardens will be open, but the total may vary from day to day. The Landmark Trust Banqueting Houses on Church Street will be open both days. Plant sales, Morris Men will be dancing and teas available. All proceeds to Campden and Area Home Nursing. High Street, Chipping Campden, Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire, GL55 6AS
Hide Garden wins Best in Show for Emily
The celebratory themed RHS Malvern Spring Festival has seen Cotswold-based designer Emily CrowleyWroe awarded Best in Show for her stunning creation The Hide Garden. The garden also received a Silver Gilt medal for its design, that celebrates nature on the doorstep. The immersive space represents a private retreat, transporting you to a favourite riverside spot and was Emily Crowley-Wroe superbly popular with the judges. Emily said: “This is my first time at the RHS Malvern Spring Festival, and I am absolutely thrilled to have received a Silver Gilt Medal, but then to have the bonus of winning Best in Show, is delightful! “It’s been a real labour of love and is inspired by a local nature reserve. The garden incorporates archetypal layers and forms in the planting and provides an emotive connection to place.” About the award-winning garden, James Alexander-Sinclair, RHS chair of judges, said: “The judges were thrilled to be back at the festival after such a long break and were delighted with the standard of the gardens.”
ONLY ONE IN THREE COTSWOLDS GARDENERS MAKE THEIR OWN COMPOST Only a third of gardeners in the whole of the Cotswolds make their own compost for gardening, a survey suggests.Polling for the Royal Horticultural Society found only 33 per-cent of the of gardeners in the county composted garden or food waste, even though the charity said it is a free, easy and sustainable’ alternative to shop-bought products such as peat compost. The proportion that do have a compost bin, heap or bucket generally increases with age, the survey of more than 1,800 gardeners found.
But so too does resistance to taking up the practice, with much higher levels of the over 55s who do not compost saying nothing would make them start, than among younger age groups. Among those who do not make their own compost, more than a third 36per-cent said subsidised or free compost bins from local councils would get them composting, with 17 per-cent saying training and online tutorials would help and one in 10 suggesting a clearer idea of the green benefits would inspire them.
New era opens for visitors to the Miserden Estate A new era is under way at the 850 acres of woodland and farmland, on the Miserden Estate near Stroud in Gloucestershire where a programme is being launched packed with activities, offering visitors brand-new ways to explore the picturesque grounds. From Saturday 28th May, visitors can look forward to experiencing the timeless 17th century walled garden which offers stunning views over the deer park, rolling Cotswold hills and beyond. Also new is the Potting Shed craft and garden shop that will be showcasing local crafts, some of which are being created by the team at the estate. Plus, The Glasshouse Café will relaunch, offering visitors lunches, tea and cake in the beautiful atmospheric glasshouse surroundings. To add to the list of experiences at Miserden, dining packages such as the Woodland Afternoon Tea will be served under the canopy of the trees, with a fern covered carpet and great trees stretching overhead – which is set to become ‘the ultimate Cotswold indulgence’. Estate owner Nicholas Wills said: ‘We’ve been busy developing new ways for visitors to enjoy Miserden – we’re looking forward to welcoming visitors back to The Glasshouse Café and have a schedule of workshops focusing on the inspiration of the woodland that surrounds us”. Miserden, Stroud GL6 7JA
New era begins at Miserden Estate
Look out for the July issue of Country Gardener from Friday, 24th June onwards 6
Country Gardener
The Hop Pocket Herbs, soft fruit & vegetable plants Cottage garden plants, shrubs & trees Plant, lawn & garden care products Specialist composts & decorative gravels Barrels, terracotta & glazed pots Specialist bird care products
Garden Centre
Bishop’s Frome, Herefordshire, WR6 5BT
T: 01531 640121 E: info@hoppocketgardencentre.co.uk W: www.hoppocketgardencentre.co.uk
Open: Tues-Sat 10-5pm Sun 10-4pm B/H Mons 10-5pm
Plant Lovers
Wonderful selection of plants and garden items available which only an independent could offer.
Gretton Road, Gotherington, Cheltenham GL52 9QY BEAUTIFUL HOME-GROWN BEDDING PLANTS, HANGING BASKETS AND PLANTED CONTAINERS.
01242 676722 www.gotheringtonnurseries.co.uk info@gotheringtonnurseries.co.uk 1 mile from Prescott Hill Climb. Open Mon-Sat: 9am-5pm Sun: 10am-4pm
Free local delivery for large items – National Garden Gift Vouchers accepted Friendly help and advice always available
Ireley Hardy Plant Nursery
Specialist Plant Centre
Grange Farm NURSERY Beautiful plants to create your own unique garden
OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK: Summer 9am - 5.30pm, Winter 9am to Dusk, Closed on Sundays. Guarlford - Malvern - WR13 6NT
01684 562544 grangefmnursery@btconnect.com
www.countrygardener.co.uk
Cottage Garden Plants including Shrubs, Climbers, Hardy Perennials, Herbs
We stock a small range of ornamental trees and specimen shrubs Most of our plants are propagated/grown in the Nursery Open: March to November, Tuesday to Saturday, 2pm to 5pm Other times by appointment Broadway Road, Winchcombe, Cheltenham, Glos, GL54 5NY Tel: 01242 604160 Web: www.ireleynursery.co.uk Email: ireley_nursery@hotmail.com
7
NICOLA’S SEEDS OF SUCCESS Flower-loving mum has launched the UK’s only seed subscription box encouraging budding gardeners to ‘grow to give’ to others in the community When Nicola Bird discovered the impact the floristry industry has on the environment, she vowed to stop buying bunches of flowers and grow her own instead. A self-confessed gardening novice, Nicola, 50, watched YouTube tutorials and read books, and discovered it might not be as difficult as she first thought. And when others saw what she was doing, they asked her for advice and now 4,000 people across the country have started to grow alongside her in their own gardens. So the mum-of-three launched The Floral Project [www. thefloralproject.co.uk] - a campaign encouraging people to grow wildlife-friendly, seasonal flowers chosen for their suitability as cut flowers for themselves or to gift to charitable causes in the community. Nicola said: “We all grow together. I created The Floral Project with the aim of ‘growing to give’ and it’s blossomed. “It’s now full of people, many completely new to growing flowers, who have fully embraced the grounding and mindfulness it brings.” Nicola’s children - Tilly, 18, Ned, 16, and Bea, 14 and her husband Matt - were also involved in the project, helping to sow and cultivate the seeds and answer the many questions. But after starting in 2020, Nicola - who began her working life in a care home for the elderly - realised she was growing too many flowers for her own kitchen table - so she decided to donate the flowers to her local Age Concern. The Floral Project is now the only seed company in the UK to encourage its growers to give. Nicola, who is now studying horticulture with the RHS, said: “There are many wonderful organisations in local communities that provide befrienders to those who are housebound or vulnerable, but after that visit is over, imagine if that volunteer could leave behind a simple vase of flowers to remind that person that they are loved and thought about all week long? Horticultural related searches on Google have increased 8
by an average of 450 per-cent in the last 12 months, as the pandemic brought simple pleasures away from digital screens and busy work schedules back to the forefront. Stepping away from devices and getting outside is something Nicola champions. But for those who think growing their own flowers is too difficult, Nicola has one main piece of advice: just start! The Flower Club subscription box (£22) contains five different cut flower seeds each month to grow alongside some of the more than 4,000 other people currently sowing, growing and giving with The Floral Project. “Starting a tiny cut flower patch is a really simple way to start, you can start it at any time in the year, and it rewards you very quickly with your own flowers ready for cutting within a matter of a couple of months.” Nicola admits she has never been interested in gardening but has always loved flowers. Nicola said: “We bought a house with a beautiful garden with the idea that the kids would be out frolicking around outside, building dens - but they never stepped foot in it and neither did I. “When I learned about the environmental impact of the traditional cut flower industry, I just thought I can’t have flowers in my house as I didn’t want to support that. “So, I took a small space in the garden, ordered some raised beds - about 12 metres - and a little greenhouse online for just £50, and I learned everything through YouTube and books.” Each year, Nicola runs a 100 Posy Challenge where those who want to join declare their aim to donate either ten or 100 posies throughout the summer. “There are seeds you can sow right now today to start your cut flower patch. Just start.”
For more information visit www.thefloralproject.co.uk Country Gardener
NICOLA’S ANNUAL ‘WHAT TO GROW’ WHEN GUIDE: JANUARY: Planning what flowers you want to grow FEBRUARY: Sow hardy annuals. MARCH: Sow half-hardy annuals specially in the greenhouse / start your dahlias/ narcissi and daffodils/anemones are all in bloom at the start of spring. And all make ideal cut flowers APRIL: Ranunculus will now be blooming / sowing your summer garden seeds/dahlia cuttings. MAY: Cut the flowers and this is the month to start giving JUNE: emphasis on biennials and sowing these now to start the garden next year JULY: Watering/growing sustainably, giving flowers, what to do with your flowers when you go on holiday. AUGUST/SEPTEMBER: Vital months -sow hardy annuals – most people don’t know this is the ideal time to start your cut flower patch. SEPTEMBER: Plant narcissi and keep up with regular sowing of hardy annuals OCTOBER: Plant ranunculus and anemones and plan what to do with dahlias at the end of the season. NOVEMBER: Plant tulips
Dementia advice from the experts
Everyone’s dementia journey is different. Uncover lesser-known facts from our dementia experts to help you navigate caring for a loved one. At Care UK, we’re here for you every step of the way. Download our free dementia guide, Let’s talk about dementia, 21 things everyone should know or call 0371 705 1110 to request a printed copy.
Let’s talk about dementia 21 things everyone should know
For family carers
Trusted to care.
Highmarket House, Banbury Millers Grange, Witney Sandfields, Cheltenham Scarlet House, Stroud
www.countrygardener.co.uk
9
READERS LETTERS
Have your say... If you have any views, thoughts, gardening ideas or success stories you would like to share with Country Gardener then contact us via letter or email at Country Gardener, Mount House, Halse, Taunton, Somerset TA4 3AD or email editorial@countrygardener.co.uk
My solution to send rats packing from the allotment I know many of my neighbours and fellow allotment holders have been badly affected by rats this spring. I think I might have come across a solution. Mix hot chilli powder, ground white pepper and ground black pepper and sprinkle it liberally around rat runs, rat holes and wherever they forage. I have used this successfully for about two years now and one sniff and the wretched creatures disappear for ever, never to return. Amy Polhill Beaminster
IN DEFENCE OF MOSS Can I be allowed to say something in defence of moss? What is so wrong with it? I have a small lawn at the front of my house which gets plenty of sun and has lots of moss in it. It always looks super green and pretty and feels nice to walk on. The birds seem to like it and poke around happily and when it is in flower it looks lovely. The gardener who comes in and cuts my lawn rolls his eyes when I tell him I love my daisies, violas and my moss.
Pat Tobin
Petersfield
Patience in the garden is the most important thing
The delights of chickens in the garden A garden is of course many things to many people but one of the pleasures my husband and I have enjoyed over the last two years now is chickens sharing our outdoor space. We bought them during lockdown, and I could watch my rare breed chickens for hours. The cockerel is lovely – he takes grapes or other delights he has found to his favourite girl. The hens are beautiful and as a bonus lay lovely brown and white eggs. An electric fence protects them from foxes and so far, we haven’t had any problems just the delight of sharing our garden. Heather Watson Exeter
I read in your excellent magazine that someone was advocating patience in the garden as being very important. This seems to be something which we all do not talk about enough. I must garden on a tight budget and my garden is most certainly a work in progress, but I can see that little by little I am getting somewhere, and it is gradually evolving into something rather special. The cuttings taken from my grandmother’s garden remind me that she is no longer with us, but they bring me comfort knowing they were plants that she enjoyed. Whenever I buy a new plant, I remember the ones she talked about and when money allows these find a place in my garden. I take pleasure in the fact that my garden is not expensive, that I am not in a rush to have it become an instant finished project. Having patience and the time to watch it grow is the most important thing for me. Vicky Embletonn Burnham
True patience is growing an apricot tree from a stone When it comes to having patience in a garden, I would like to nominate my husband for some sort of award. Eight years ago, he decided to try and grow his own apricot tree from a stone. He looked it all up and did as was recommended – soaking the stone in water for 24 hours. Then, placing the stone in damp paper towels, moist sand and peat moss. Then putting it in it into a plastic bag and putting in the fridge for six weeks. Amazingly it worked. The tree now has pride of place sheltered against a greenhouse outside wall. Apricot trees typically bear fruit three to four years after planting. So, he is not there yet! Daphne Hall Martock
MAKING HEDGEHOG ‘TUNNELS’ A PART OF PLANNING LAW
I applaud your constantly raising and writing about how we must do more for hedgehogs in your magazine. One thing caught my eye a couple of months ago and that is how important it is to allow them to travel from garden to garden. I felt so strongly about it I have now proposed a motion at our local town council requiring that all solid walls or fences in any new planning application must incorporate hedgehog ‘tunnels’. I want us to be at the forefront of stipulating these tunnels as law in the hope that other councils will follow our lead. Hedgehogs along with many other wild animals have suffered so much from human development so I hope it’s going to be successful to give them a helping hand through our planning system.
Allen Davenport
Cirencester
Don’t cover carrot seeds Well over 50 years ago, an old-timer gave my mother this hint for better carrot yields. After putting the seeds in a row, do not cover with dirt. Instead, walk down the row. That presses the seeds into the soil just enough. Mum and I have followed this advice ever since and it works.
Anna Graham 10
Culver’s Root is a wildflower to take note of One plant which I think deserves a mention in your coverage of British wildflowers is Culver’s Root. It is a native erect perennial, an easy to spot plant, which grows up to seven feet in height, with round, green to dark green, smooth or slightly hairy stems, sometimes branching near the top. I see it a lot in the Devon lanes near me and it is spectacular. The unbranched stems are topped by several spikes of densely clustered, tiny, white flowers. The total effect is candelabra-like. Narrowly oval, dark-green leaves are arranged in whorls around the stem. The common name was to honour Dr. Culver who prescribed the plant as an effective laxative. The genus name, a combination of Veronica and the suffix astrum (“false”), describes this plant’s resemblance to the Veronicas. It is the only species in the genus. It can be grown easily in wildflower gardens. The root contains a powerful emetic and cathartic.
Gabrielle Johns
Poole Country Gardener
Ashburton
A purr-fect read I know your magazine is well worth a read, but it goes beyond human interest! My cat Cokes enjoying the latest edition!
Diane Downs sent by email
Farmcote Herbs and Chilli Peppers • Large selection of culinary and medical herbs • Also over 30 varieties of chilli plants available • Pesticide free, of excellent quality - and not hard on the pocket! • We sell a large selection of herbs & various plants • Our shop sells various sauces, chutneys, pickles, ice creams,
chilli sausages and chilli burgers.
Letting your holiday home has never been easier
Farmcote, Near Winchcombe, GL54 5AU Open: 16th April - 18th September. Friday, Saturday & Sundays (also bank holidays) 10.30-5.00 and Mondays 12.00-5.00 Telephone: 01242 603860 E-Mail: janeeayrs@gmail.com Website: www.farmcoteherbs.co.uk
Our local team is dedicated to managing your property with the same care and attention you would. With tailored services to suit your needs, you can be involved as much or as little as you like, knowing that you and your guests are in safe hands. We are always looking to grow our portfolio, so why not get in touch today?
TIMBER MERCHANTS AND FENCING SPECIALISTS Open: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Visit our well-stocked yard for timber, gates, fencing, decking, trellis, pergolas and arches, plus expert advice. TRY OUR ONLINE FENCING CALCULATOR AT www.hartwellfencing.co.uk
01386 840373 The Timber Yard, Weston Subedge, Nr Chipping Campden, GL55 6QH
■ ■ ■
GREENER LANDSCAPES
...are a dependable and professional company offering a complete design and build service to create your perfect garden.
■
We offer free initial consultation and quotations and work with our clients to offer the best value without compromising on quality.
■
All of our work is backed with a five year guarantee to offer full peace of mind.
■
Competitive commission rates No joining or annual fee A Marketing or Marketing and Managed Service Professional photography No restrictions on use of your property Peace-of-mind damage cover
Why not give us a call? T 07955269617 E grnrscapes@gmail.com
newowners@cotswoldshideaways.co.uk 01451 888 040 cotswoldshideaways.co.uk www.countrygardener.co.uk
11
o t e r e H e r a C
As a leading ‘not-for-profit’ provider of care for older people, The Orders of St John Care Trust can help you make the right choice for care in later life. • A home with compassion, warmth and understanding • Working closely with Dementia UK - one of the few care providers to employ Admiral Nurses, specialists in dementia care
in g Ca urs
Da
Re
spite Car Re
e
re
N
ential C sid
e ar
entia C em
e ar
D
• A professional, friendly, caring ethos
y Care
Find out more about care near you: 0800 988 8133 • www.osjct.co.uk
#HereToCare 12
Country Gardener
READERS STORY
VEGAN GARDENING - I’M SURE IT IS THE FUTURE Caroline Blake is studying RHS Level 2 diploma on the principles of horticulture and 12 months ago started to see how effective vegan gardening can be. As a Country Gardener regular reader, Caroline from Bristol shares her experiences so far. What the hell is vegan gardening? It’s a question if I’ve been asked once I’ve been asked a 100 times. Over the past 11 months I have been working on soil in the garden where no animals are harmed – and that includes slugs. Already I can see in raised beds, borders, and other areas of my test garden that it will be worth the effort. I am studying vegan gardening alongside my ‘proper job’ on the RHS Level 2 course. I can say now it has already opened what’s possible in the garden. There will be resistance from gardeners who are successful with their own tried and tested methods, but nothing should stay still, should it? Horticulture has been much the same for a long while: sow seeds, add manure, water and feed, and kill pests. But now, something revolutionary could transform the old world of grow-your-own: vegan gardening. Vegan gardening is a very organic method that avoids any animal input – from manure to fertiliser. This does not mean animals should be excluded from the garden, in fact with veganic gardening wildlife is encouraged. Without the wildlife found in your garden your plants cannot flourish and thrive. When it comes to growing your own, I’ve already found it is important how animal products are used. Growing vegan is not as hard as you may first think and is not something you can necessarily change all at once.
I am not an experienced gardener, so I don’t have to change age old methods all at once. The good news is that there may be aspects of your gardening that is already vegan and there is no single way to garden to vegan principles. I have already been taught that soil fertility cannot be maintained without manure, as it is known for containing a healthy mix of carbon and nitrogen. However, this is not true. A Greek farmer has proved that there is a natural compost alternative, using olive trees, that is just as (if not more) effective as manure. In vegan gardening it is vital what you put on your crops. Animal manures used to help plants grow can be contaminated with infectious diseases such as E coli and listeria, as well as persistent herbicides. My focus on my vegan gardening is to make my own compost carefully and hopefully efficiently from nitrogenrich green material grass cuttings, peelings, leafy prunings and carbon-rich brown material dry leaves, straw, card, shredded woody prunings, sourced from kitchen, household and garden waste. The high-quality compost produced especially wonder crops of broad beans, squashes and courgettes last autumn. It’s not just animal manure that should be avoided: many commercial composts and fertilisers contain animal products such as blood, fish and bone – by-products.
So, what else have I been doing to boost my plants? I make comfrey-based liquid fertiliser with chopped comfrey or nettles, borage or seaweed in a bucket of water and leave it for a few weeks until it starts to stink. Dilute and decant over crops to add nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, as well as vitamin B12. These are the three primary ingredients required for healthy plant growth – comfrey’s high potassium levels particularly aid fruit production. It is unethical to kill pests and diseases. But with an ecosystem of weed banks, covering crops and the consequent beneficial insects in place, you shouldn’t have to. There is one aspect of vegan gardening that is easier than conventional gardening: you don’t need to dig. Digging over wrecks the soil and its fauna, creating compaction and erosion. Hoe off weeds instead; you should get fewer weeds anyway, because digging creates a hotbed for weed seeds. As you want to avoid harming the wildlife in a veganic gardening approach, digging is something to be avoided. Within soil is a high complex ecosystem so to avoid disrupting this, I have adopted a no-dig approach. The positive part of vegan gardening is the benefits for animals and insects; the aim is not to kill anything, and as far as possible leave garden wildlife alone. Insects and invertebrates (particularly worms) are essential parts of a garden’s ecosystem, whether they are maintaining soil structure or providing a link in the food chain. I am not making any conclusions about vegan gardening yet. I am going to stick to it as I like the principles it includes, and I think it makes a better garden. It’s also a good story and bearing in mind how in vogue veganism is, this is only going to get bigger.
‘I am not an experienced gardener, so I don’t have to change age old methods all at once. The good news is some aspects of gardening are already vegan and there is no single way to garden to vegan principles’ ‘The positive part of vegan gardening is the benefits for animals and insects; the aim is not to kill anything, and as far as possible leave garden wildlife alone.’
www.countrygardener.co.uk
13
Container gardening
delights
Whether you have a small or large garden, or simply a patio or balcony, container gardening offers wonderful and still perhaps underrated growing opportunities.
Container gardening is booming. Growing plants in containers is an easy way to create instant and changeable displays outside your back door – especially if you’re short on space. Many plants can be grown in containers, from hardy bedding plants to bulbs, herbaceous plants, fruit and vegetables and even shrubs and trees. However, it’s worth knowing how to give your plants the best conditions possible, as container-grown plants need a little more care than those growing in the ground. Why containers really need you You must remember you are totally in charge of the wellbeing of your container. They may be outside and exposed to the elements, but two things make life difficult for them. The first is they have a limited amount of compost for their roots to grow into. This restricts both the food and water they can get. Secondly, dense foliage acts as an umbrella and can seriously affect the amount of rain they can enjoy so for the most part they are dependent on you for water. Remember also to feed from April to September. Choose the right location Plants that require a lot of sun should receive at least six hours of sunlight a day, so should be placed in a south or west-facing location. Shade-loving plants should be grown in pots placed in shade. Ideally, choose a sheltered spot for your containers, to stop cold, drying winds harming your plants – containers placed below walls and fences and hedges are in good locations. If placing pots on a wall or balcony, ensure they are fixed securely. Choose the right container Containers come in many shapes, sizes, colours and materials. Opt for conventional plastic, terracotta or wooden pots and troughs, or be creative by recycling buckets, bathroom furniture or tins. The only rules are that your container should be large enough to provide your plants with the room they need to grow, and that they have adequate drainage. Choose the right compost When filling your container choose sieved home-made compost or multipurpose from the garden centre, as 14
these are nutrient-rich, lightweight and moistureretentive. Avoid using garden soil as this is heavy and is likely to contain weed seeds which can out-compete your plants. If growing perennials you’ll need to scrape off the top layer and replace it with fresh compost annually. Watering Watering is the number one priority for containers as the plants won’t have access to moisture below ground. On a hot sunny day they can dry out within hours and plants might not recover from serious wilting. Site containers as close to a water source as you can to make this an easy job. On hot days water plants thoroughly in the early morning or evening, making sure that you don’t just wet the surface but allow it to soak down to the roots. For convenience, drip irrigation can be installed particularly useful if you will be away from home during part of the summer. Feeding Plants in pots have less access to nutrients than those in the ground, so will need additional feeding. Use slowrelease fertilisers or add liquid feed to your watering can. Plants should be fed around every fortnight during the growing season.
Growing veggies in pots has lots of advantages If you’re new to growing your own vegetables, growing plants in pots is a great beginner gardening project. You can keep things small-scale, moving onto a larger vegetable patch as you learn and become more confident. The other element of growing vegetables in pots that suits new gardeners is the low maintenance aspect. It’s easier and quicker to take care of plants in pots than it is to keep on top of a whole vegetable garden or allotment. In addition, containers are relatively portable, so if your plants aren’t thriving you can easily move them to a different location. Containers are also perfect if you want to grow your own vegetables in a small space. You don’t even need a
Containers in your garden – things to remember Containers can dry out easily so you need to water and feed much more frequently Only small amounts of vegetables can be grown in containers, so match the size of the crop to the container. You can overwinter potted perennials by placing them in an unheated garage or shed – this can protect the plant from extreme fluctuations. Check on the pot occasionally to make sure it doesn’t dry out, and don’t keep them somewhere that is heated – all perennials need a period of dormancy. If the roots are poking out of the bottom of the container that’s a sure sign it needs repotting. It might sound obvious but too many gardeners ignore this. Most of the time plants that are grown in containers have fewer problems with diseases than plants grown in the soil. Fewer pesky pests: Insects that move from plant to plant in the garden are less likely to discover plants on a balcony, veranda or decking. Containers are the perfect home for colourful annuals and half-hardy perennials - both of which are sometimes called ‘patio plants’ or bedding. Most shrubs, climbers, herbaceous perennials, grasses and even trees can be grown in containers.
Country Gardener
garden. Containers allow you to grow vegetables in pots on a balcony, outside a front door, on a window ledge, or on a hanging bracket. This makes growing vegetables in pots easy, regardless of the size of your outdoor space. Growing vegetables in pots, baskets and containers allows you to adjust the height of your garden too. This is particularly helpful if your movement is restricted, or you struggle to garden at ground level. Being able to play with height is also a fantastic way to create a bigger container vegetable garden in a small space by using a range of pot sizes, trellis or even shelving.
Choose a sheltered spot for your pots, so your plants are kept out of cold, drying winds. Walls, fences and hedges are good locations, or try to screen the pots to reduce the effects of the wind. Salads - Salad leaves only need a shallow container a few inches deep. If summers are hot in your location, choose an area that gets morning sunshine and afternoon shade to avoid the plants ‘bolting’ or running to seed before they’re ready for harvest. Tomatoes - Tomatoes need plenty of soil to supply enough nutrients right up to harvest. Many varieties such as ‘Tumbling Tom’ can be grown in hanging baskets and look great as they trail towards the floor. Tomatoes are very thirsty so will need lots of water - at least twice a day in hot weather. Potatoes - Potatoes can be grown in large pots or bags and sacks designed specifically for the job. The seed potatoes (or potato eyes) are layered with the potting mix, left in a sunny spot, and watered as required.
CONTAINER TIPS FROM COUNTRY GARDENER READERS “Don’t focus just on colour, but also texture and leaf sizes.” SUSAN BARBER, Dartmouth “Add more plants than you think you’re going to need.” ANNA HARGREAVES, Bude “Have fun with what you’re selecting for the container—mix edibles and annuals, go for texture! A container is that chance to experiment. Experiment with the container itself, too.” CHRIS BLACKSTONE “If your container is deep and wide, use a foundation type of plant (eg. boxwood), which will remain as your permanent base plant all year. Then play around seasonally with annuals, colour and texture as fillers. You can even add more height around the foundation plant. You’ll be amazed how many styles you can create to enjoy the same pot all year long.” BETH GREENE “Containers are great to place plants right next to seating so you can enjoy plants, and even fragrance, next to you. They also can bring plants up closer to eye level. Containers are also great to ‘contain’ those beautiful but ‘bully-like’ plants that would otherwise take over the garden inground.” JENNIFER PORTER, Yeovil “Adding a layer of rock to the bottom does not help with drainage. Studies have found this has the opposite effect.” JANET KEYWORTHY, horticulturist
Some ideas for flexible container gardening
1. Add height Mix up the textures and add a sense of height and movement by planting grasses into your pots. And with such a wide variety available, you can use them as part of a complementary colour palette, too. Bronze-tinged foliage can successfully be paired with heucheras and penstemons.
2. Grow in pots on shelves A tiered shelving structure is a beautiful way to show off your container gardening ideas all year round. The likes of heather, pansies, sage, and ferns makes a complementary mix – perfect for an autumn display (and why not throw a pumpkin in for good measure?). Mix it up as the seasons change – think bulbs in spring, or bedding plants in summer. Add a gravel topping for a polished finish. Plus, it’ll help to keep moisture in, too.
3. Liven up a wall with pelargoniums Pelargoniums (often known as geraniums) are an easy-care choice for pots and bring tons of colour to a garden. Their clustered blooms of scarlet, pinks, and whites add a Mediterranean look to a space. And, some varieties have scented foliage, too (try ‘Attar of Roses’ for a real crowd-pleaser). As demonstrated here, they’re a fabulous way to brighten up a dull wall, especially when displayed in brightly glazed planters. 4. Dwarf conifers in pots For modern plots, a row of dwarf conifers is a great way to make a statement whilst bringing a dose of green to a space. Plant a few in a row along a wall for a structural look, or use either side of a gateway for a grand entrance. www.countrygardener.co.uk
5. Simple olive tree in a pot Speaking of potted trees, if you’re looking to transport your plot to sunnier climes, then an olive is a must-have. In milder regions you can leave these evergreens outdoors all year round, simply keep them in a sunny spot and make sure they have lots of good drainage. Just a single plant can bring a whole new look to a space – pair with a large terracotta pot for a final rustic flourish.
6. Traditional herbs Pots are perfect for growing all your favourite herbs in one place. Not only will it look lovely, but your cooking will level up a notch as you get creative with all the fresh new flavours. What’s more, its smaller size makes it a great addition to even the smallest balcony.
7. Patio sized orchard Enchanted by the idea of picking an apple or pear from your very own garden? There’s no doubt that an apple pie made from home-grown produce sounds really rather special. However, for many of us, the idea of a full-blown orchard is a little far-fetched. But that doesn’t mean to say you can’t create a mini-sized version. Overcome those space limitations with a container, which is perfect for planting espalier fruit trees. A great choice for a patio, or even a balcony, it can also double up as a screen for added privacy, once planted up. 15
TREE SPECIALIST
ANCIENT TREES
– they are good for the soul Mark Hinsley asks if it is humbling for such a transient creature as a human being to be in the presence of something that lived for a thousand years before us and will live for a thousand years after?
I am not a tree hugger and anthropomorphism drives me potty! There may be some rudimentary communication between trees, possibly facilitated by mycorrhizal fungi, but it is still just a plant. A tree may have existed for hundreds of years but it did not witness anything. “Just think what that old tree has seen in its lifetime…….” It saw nothing – it does not have eyes. If you want to know what happened in the Middle Ages – read a book; don’t ask a tree. However, standing beside an ancient tree, putting your hand on it, feeling the sense of ‘place’ that the tree creates around it, understanding just how long it has been there, can generate profound feelings in people who were not expecting to be affected by the experience at all. Why? I don’t know. Is it humbling for such a transient creature as a human being to be in the presence of something that lived for a thousand years before us and will live for a thousand years after? Is it our tendency to attribute the characteristics of wise old people to any long-lived thing? Is it the calmness of being in the presence of something so unchanging in what is otherwise an increasingly rapidly changing world? I think these things are very personal and if you want to find out how you feel – go try it! So how do you find them? There are plenty of online resources. There is the Ancient Tree Inventory of the Woodland Trust, which has an interactive map. Then there is the Ancient Tree Forum website, which has many items about ancient trees including where to find them in your locality. If you want to be more specific, look up the Ancient Yew Group where you will find most of the oldest trees in any part of the country. I use online sites – but I like books. Tree Heritage of Britain and Ireland by Andrew Morton, ISBN 1 85310 559 7 is a treasured volume. It breaks the country down to regions
WHAT IS AN ANCIENT TREE? How old an ancient tree is depends on the species. Some species can live longer than others with yews, oaks and sweet chestnuts topping the age charts at over 1000 years. Other species, including birch and willow, live shorter lives. A tree is defined as ancient if it is • In the third or final stage of its life (this stage can go on for decades or centuries). • Old relative to others of the same species. • Interesting biologically, aesthetically or culturally because of its great age.
16
WHAT DO ANCIENT TREES LOOK LIKE? Ancient trees don’t always look the same, depending on the species and where it grows. But in general, there are several ancient characteristics and the more a tree has the older it’s likely to be. Look for these key features: • Crown that is reduced in size and height • Large girth in comparison to other trees of the same species • Hollow trunk which may have one or more openings to the outside • Stag-headed appearance (look for dead, bare, antler-like branches in the crown) • Fruit bodies of heart-rot fungi growing on the trunk • Cavities on trunk and branches, running sap or pools of water forming in hollows • Rougher or more creviced bark • An ‘old’ look with lots of character • Aerial roots growing down into the decaying trunk
and provides maps and descriptions of trees of historic note in whichever area you live in or are going to on holiday. Many counties have their own local trees of note publications. I have a soft spot for The Great Trees of Dorset by Andrew Pollard and Emma Brawn published by Dorset Wildlife Trust, because I directed Emma to some of them! You can find leaflets on local trees produced by town and parish councils in Tourist Information Offices or council offices’ reception areas. Some of them are good with maps and descriptions – some can be a bit dodgy! I was walking around a churchyard looking at yew trees with the Vicar when he showed me a young golden foliage yew. He said the local council had listed it as having been planted by Queen Victoria. However, 20ft away was a Country Gardener
larger common yew with a gravestone beside it which stated that the yew had been planted to commemorate the death of Queen Victoria in 1901 which they appeared to have missed! Old trees also show up on the 1:2500 OS maps of usually around 1870, they rarely show them after that, and some descriptions can be found in volumes such as Arthur Mees’ The King’s England series which you can find in old bookshops or even charity shops county by county. So, my challenge to you, gentle reader, is: find out where the ancient trees with public access are near you, go and find them, and see how they make you feel.
Main image: This famous sessile or Big Belly oak, in the royal forest of Savernake, between Malborough and Great Bedwyn in Wiltshire, has a girth of more than 11m. The tree has allegedly been around since the time of William The Conqueror and is estimated to be 1,000 to 1,100 years old. Inset: There are several yew trees in Tisbury churchyard near Salisbury, but the largest of them is very special indeed. It is thought to be the second oldest in Britain, around 4,000 years old.
Mark Hinsley runs Arboricultural Consultants Ltd offering tree consultancy services.
www.treeadvice.info
THE UK’S MARKET LEADER
NOW INTEREST FREE *
SPECIAL READER OFFER %
RECOMMENDED BY
25OFF Please quote code CGMAY CGJUNE
PLUAS T!
AS SEEN ON
NO V
Is your conservatory too hot in summer and too cold in winter? year-round living space. Exclusive to Conservatory Insulations, the UK market leader, this Conservaheat layered foil quilt system comprises technology developed by NASA for the Space Shuttle programme. The outer foil of our quilt incorporates a unique True Aluminiu conservatory for a fraction of the cost of a new tiled roof.
imise heat retention. ich insulates your
With this proven energy-saving product (liable to only 5% VAT) you and your family can relax in complete comfort all year round.
• Cooler in summer • No VAT to pay • Warmer in the winter • Proven energy saver • Prevents UV fading • Eliminates external noise WE HAVE ONE OF THE HIGHEST COMPANY RATINGS ON THE GUILD OF MASTER CRAFTSMEN WEBSITE
FREEPHONE 0800 180 4000
Text ‘Quote’ to 60777 www.conservatoryinsulations.com www.countrygardener.co.uk
17
TECHNOLOGY AND ACCESSORIES
ACCESSORISING our gardens The perceptions of our gardens continue to change and as they do, a huge range of garden accessories and technologies are now tempting us to get the balance right between old fashioned gardening and new style relaxation, comfort and security There was a time when gardening was probably green fingers and a rusty old mower. It used to work within the then low expectations of gardening and spending time in the garden. But that is not the way of things now. With less of us moving home as often as we once did, we are looking for ways to adapt our homes to meet our changing needs. Plants, greenery, grow your own are thankfully the core to why we love gardening but pressures on our time, the importance of a garden being a place to relax and enjoy rather than just constantly work in has brought a great choice of products to the market. And with it opportunities to personalise our outdoor space. Blurring the lines between outside and in is still a huge growing trend, as homeowners look to extend living spaces. Whether that’s a wellness space, creating a covered veranda area or acting as an extension to a playroom – we’re looking to extend our lives to our outdoor spaces. It means comfort with outdoor furniture, embracing technology with high tech security systems , cutting down on hard work with inventive solutions to gardening problems and more. Gardens are fast becoming a space where we are spending more and more of our time with family and friends. Often more than not it needs to flex to meet several purposes – an oasis for quiet contemplation and an entertaining space for social get togethers. Garden technology has also progressed in leaps and bounds with new ideas. The use of smart garden technology is on the rise, allowing everyone from seasoned gardeners to total amateurs to home builders to make the most of it and to make life easier.
Technology has over the past ten years started to win over the most sceptical gardener as smart gardening takes advantage of the technology. Smart technology is all the rage but did you know it translates to useful help in the garden and in the way you can achieve more with your outdoor space. Gardening with technology can help with chores and tasks common in the landscape and offer reliability when it comes to things like garden security and transforming outdoor spaces. More products are being developed to help lower our carbon footprint, simplify chores and help us be wiser consumers. Such technology can enhance plant care, help with landscape design and inform us of the best plants for specific sites. In an imagined future, all the drudgery of gardening will be removed, leaving only the pleasurable aspects of maintaining your home. GARDEN SECURITY – rural theft is a worry for many gardeners and homeowners but technology now offers hugely effective monitoring systems linked to mobile phones to offer alerts and gather evidence. RELIABLE AND EFFECTIVE PATIO AWNINGS – technology has made lots of progress to help homeowners convert indoor to outdoor space with confidence on how awnings can be fitted and operate. SMART SPRINKLERS – Smart sprinklers do more than just schedule irrigation. They can determine breaks and leaks in the system, save water, adjust to accommodate weather and often can be monitored and changed via your phone or computer. SMART MOWERS –automated lawn mowers or robotic mowers are now perhaps not common but widely accepted by gardeners. It operates similarly to robotic vacuums only in a mower. No more sweating in the hot sun trying to get the lawn cut.
Concrete Post Fixings (Wire Anchors) & Easy Trellising System Quick & Easy Solution to fix wires to concrete posts NO DRILLING - simply clamp the two halves together Three sizes to fit most concrete posts
FREE UK DELIVERY
Wire Anchor
Main Stockists of Gripple Trellising
Wire Anchor with Gripple Trellising System
Visit our website to view our other gardening accessories and gift ideas www.rivelinglenproducts.co.uk info@rivelinglenproducts.co.uk 01246 462666
Everyone needs a pair of USE CODE SPRINGCG AT CHECKOUT TO RECEIVE A 10% DISCOUNT OFF YOUR ORDER T&C’S APPLY It’s time to venture outside and enjoy your garden, allotment or a walk in our comfortable, waterproof, Backdoorshoes. They are lightweight and ideal for slipping off/ on when you need to. Mens and Ladies range available online in sizes UK 3-14. We also have a range of Chelsea ‘Jumpy’ Boots and Wellingtons. Footwear for everyone - we’ve covered all eventualities!
To see our full range visit www.backdoorshoes.co.uk or talk to us on 01202 232357 18
We design and create garden sculptures. To see our full range visit our online shop at www.beechwoodtrinkets.com Contact Becky on 07813527954 or email sales@beechwoodtrinkets.com Facebook “f ” Logo
Country Gardener
CMYK / .ai
Facebook “f ” Logo
CMYK / .ai
ENJOY YOUR R EA GARDEN ALL YG ASS L A H IT W D N ROU VERANDA FROM
SUMMER
SSAVAE ULP TEO
BUY NOW PAY 2023 with a 25% deposit*
20%OFF
**
l
Wide range of bespoke designs, frame colours and weatherproof finishes
l l
10 year guarantee Professionally installed by skilled craftsmen
l
Optional energy efficient heating and lighting
CALL FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTATION AND BROCHURE
0800 107 2727
Quoting CG280522
www.edenverandas.co.uk
Eden Verandas is a trading style of Eden Verandas Ltd. Our registered address is Unit 13 Armstrong Mall, Southwood Business Park, Farnborough, GU14 0NR. Reg. No. 08259394. We are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FRN 801638. We are a credit broker and not a lender and offer credit facilities from a panel of lenders. Terms & conditions apply. Credit is subject to status and affordability. *With our Buy Now Pay Later Product you will pay no interest if you repay the loan in full within 12 months from installation. If you prefer you can choose to spread the cost for longer and pay the minimum repayment outlined below at the end of the deferred period instead. Interest is calculated and charged from the date of payout. Cash Price £8000 less a deposit of £2000. You can pay nothing for 12 months (although you can if you wish) then settle the balance by the due date. Total amount repayable £8000. Alternatively 120 monthly repayments of £84.67 with the 1st payment commencing 12 months after installation of the goods. Total Charge for credit £4160.40 Total amount repayable £12160.40 (includes £2000 deposit. 9.9% APR Representative. **Terms & conditions apply.
A PERFECT LAWN EVERY DAY
SCAN TO VIEW THE FULL RANGE
AUTOMOWER® SPECIALIST 2022
Husqvarna Automower® cuts your lawn while you relax. The robotic lawn mower works at night, and when it rains, with a perfect result — even for complex gardens. Speak to your local Farol Automower Specialist today to find and buy your ideal robotic lawn mower!
WORKS IN THE RAIN Phone app and smart home compatible
Thanks to GPS tracking and full connectivity, you can follow your Automower® and update its settings wherever you are. Automower® Connect is featured on all X-Line models. You can even voice-control it with Amazon Alexa or Google Home, and you can use it in IFTTT applets, so your robotic mower is ready to become part of your smart home.
GOOD FOR THE PLANET
So quiet you won’t know it’s there
The sound level is only about 60 dB, which is equal to a normal conversation. This means that you can actually have your robot mower working while hosting a garden party, without worrying about any disturbing noise or fuel fumes. By comparison, an ordinary petrol lawn mower or ride-on mower generates between 95 and 100 dB(A).
CONTROL VIA PHONE APP Good for your lawn and for our planet
Automower® runs on batteries, and generate no direct emissions like conventional petrol-powered lawn mowers do. What is more, because Automower® cut just a little grass on a continuous basis, the clippings are small enough to be recycled back into the soil as a natural fertiliser. The result is a greener, fuller, healthier lawn, and reduced need of synthetic fertilisers.
Visit farolmowers.co.uk/automower to explore the range
TECHNOLOGY AND ACCESSORIES
Gorgeous nine seater Corner sofa – £400 off
HOW TO TRANSFORM YOUR OUTDOOR GARDEN SPACE Great British Awnings are passionate about helping their clients transform their outdoor garden spaces. It’s the opportunity to make the most of the great British weather, despite changeable conditions. You can enjoy Indian summer evenings and time outdoors whatever the season. Providing shelter from the sun, rain and wind, their stylish designs offer shade and a comfortable temperature. The company offers a choice of products and finishes, from automated patio awnings as well as beautiful pergolas. Innovative enhanced features can include heating and ambient lighting. All their British manufactured innovative products are constructed caringly using only the finest materials to ensure they suit all styles and budgets. Weatherproof and built to last, with a 10-year warranty. Each product is designed to fit perfectly in your home. You can obtain a free site survey. A professional installation teams pride themselves on installing every job to the very highest standard. Call 0800 048 7700 or visit gbawnings.co.uk
The Palma outdoor lounge set is perfect for dining alfresco. Made from expertly woven rattan and sits on a robust powder coated steel frame with chunky comfy cushions, which have removable covers for washing to maintain that pristine look. It will seat up to nine and consists of a seven-seater corner sofa incorporating two modular elements, a square stool, a rectangular stool and a matching table that has a tempered glass tabletop. This set includes a one year constructional warranty. The price was £1399 now but is now £999 when you quote your £400 discount code CGMAY22A when you visit outandout.com or call 02037 728 752. Delivery Excluded. Offer ends June 26th 2022.
CONSISTENCY AND RELIABILITY IS BAYLISS PROMISE MANUFACTURED IN THE UK IN DERBYSHIRE
The Bayliss range of Autovents opens and closes greenhouse vents automatically without the need for electricity by using the warmth of the sun O 2 Year Guarantee O Credit Cards Accepted O Online Ordering O Free UK Delivery For a FREE brochure telephone or visit the contact us page
01335 342981 www.baylissautovents.co.uk
Bayliss Precision Components Ltd, Airfield Ind Estate, Ashbourne, Derbyshire DE6 1HA
Bayliss Autovents are leading the way with their range of Greenhouse vents which are environmentally friendly and provide a non-electric option for every gardener. Relying on the sun and natural air temperatures to operate, the hotter it gets the wider the autovent will open, allowing your greenhouse to maintain its best operating temperature. Designed and tested to last many years, Bayliss Autovents have the lowest failure rates in the industry and are manufactured from the highest quality materials, and each autovent is guaranteed for two years. Every part of a Bayliss Autovent can be serviced and if the need should arise, we carry spares for all our current units as well as many earlier models.
For more information on the Autovent range – www.baylissautovents.co.uk/shop
www.countrygardener.co.uk
21
D N A W R B NE
NEW
garden range joins robot range.
The Kress robot mower range has been designed from the ground up, featuring a raft of innovative technologies, that will set the industry standards for the coming years. Kress believes robotic mowers should do more than relieve users of the burden of pushing a mower each week. As well as saving both time and cost, Kress Mission robotic mowers are also enabled to take autonomous decisions to protect and enhance the health of turf through innovative technology. Better for you, better for the grass and better for the environment. The new 60V max battery garden power tool range from Kress sets new standards in operating comfort, features and design. The quality-manufactured tools are driven by high-performance brushless motors and exceptionally powerful Kress 60V max batteries. As a result, they are a green alternative to petrol tools, even for challenging jobs.
Speak to your local garden machinery dealer 22
Find out more today: kress.com
Country Gardener
Beautiful bespoke awnings, blinds and pergolas. All designed, custom built and installed for your enjoyment and pleasure.
Your garden reimagined... We are passionate about creating comfortable and inspiring garden spaces for you to relax in and enjoy. Our wide range of British manufactured, innovative products enhance your outdoor area. Our fully bespoke service, is tailored to your needs and our professional installation team will install to the very highest of standards.
10
YEAR WARRANTY
HIGH QUALITY PRODUCTS
FULL BESPOKE SERVICE
BRITISH MANUFACTURED PRODUCTS
10
YEAR WARRANTY
PEACE OF MIND
Call today on100800 048 7700 or visit 10 YEAR WARRANTY
YEAR WARRANTY
www.gbawnings.co.uk Follow us on
gbawnings
gbawnings
TECHNOLOGY AND ACCESSORIES
Wire Anchors from Rivelin Glen Keeping shrubs and climbers under control is always a problem. You can control them effectively using Rivelin Glen Products uniquely designed Wire Anchors. They are quick and easy to attach to concrete posts (without drilling) to act as an ‘eye’ by threading wire through them to create a trellising system. The Gripple No drilling fixture Trellising System is ideal to use with the Wire Anchors as the wire does not stretch, takes up to 100kg load & has a life of up to 15 years. Multiple rows can be achieved with one length of wire and two tensioners. No more sore hands or sagging wires! Rivelin Glen Products are the main stockists of the Gripple Trellising System. Prices: Wire Anchors from £10 for a pack of three; Gripple Starter Kit - £19.75 Details available at: www.rivelinglenproducts.com
Fabulous bespoke glass verandas - up to 25 per cent off* You can enjoy your garden throughout the year, whatever the weather with a stylish Eden Veranda and now available with a superb finance deal – Buy Now, Pay 2023 plus you can save up to 25 per cent off* Eden Veranda’s summer sale. Constructed from the highest quality materials and bespoke manufactured, an Eden Veranda is a stunning addition to any home. With accessories such as intelligent heating and lighting you can spend more time ‘outdoors’ in comfort. Every Eden Veranda is powder coated with a hard-wearing weatherproof finish, available in a choice of 56 colours and installed by experienced engineers. To benefit from these offers, visit edenverandas.co.uk or call 0800 107 2727 and use code CG280522 * Terms & Conditions apply, see website for details.
Personalised and bespoke designs made from mild steel
Beechwood Trinkets are a family run business, based in the heart of ruby country Devon near the Cornish border who design and make garden sculptures large and small along with home wall art décor. All their products are made from mild steel, handcrafted and finished to a high-quality standard. They also create personalised and bespoke designs so please feel free to contact them with any requests. To see their full range visit their online shop at www.beechwoodtrinkets.com can also follow them on Instagram and Facebook for up to date feeds and new creations along with amazing competitions. Contact Becky on 07813527954 or Sales@beechwoodtrinkets.com for all queries.
High technology with uWatch offers security for house and garden
No mains, no wifi connection
An alert on activity is sent to your phone in 30 seconds 24
The uWatch security system keeps a close eye on your valuable assets and property. The system encompasses game changing long-range (LoRa) technology that encodes information on radio waves using ‘chirp pulses’ – like the way dolphins and bats communicate! The no mains power, no WiFi uWatch Cube security camera is a buddy for your smartphone and communicates picture alerts to your app in under a minute. Rural theft cost the UK an estimated £43.3m in 2020 (NFU Mutual Rural Crime Report 2021). Skilled and highly-organised criminals continue to plague communities, smallholdings, and allotment gardeners, often visiting victim sites to identify what they are going to steal, and confusing victims as to why an intruder broke in but left empty handed. The thieves will then go away to list the item(s) and sell it, returning later to steal the item(s) once sold. The Secured by Design approved Cube is a portable and instantly deployable alerting system to suit numerous applications, from simple peace of mind care monitoring to real time crime detection. uWatch Limited is a member of Secured by Design, the UK police initiative to help ‘design out’ crime through the use of highquality, innovative products and processes. If any of the sensors (PIR motion, shock, temperature or Bluetooth/LoRa) are activated, an alert is typically received to your smartphone in under 30 seconds. If configured to do so, the alert will contain a date and time stamped picture (important evidence the police need), GPS location, temperature and the name of the sensor activated. Innovative LoRa technology has replaced Bluetooth to link the Country Gardener
uWatch Cube II with remote sensors (tags). There are several versatile applications for tags, as they allow a single Cube to monitor several valuable assets and points of entry, with alerts telling you exactly which tag has been activated, and when, in around a minute. This means that the Cube can monitor multiple assets simultaneously at distance, this could be your shed door, bike and gate. LoRa is a wireless data transmission technique that sends encoded information on radio waves. Thanks to this, transmission is robust against disturbances and data can be transmitted at a longer range compared to technologies like WiFi or Bluetooth. These features make LoRa well suited for sensors. In trials of recent developments, sensor activations were received over 13km but in practical applications reliable alerts were received up to 2km (with few obstructions) and 400m (through thick woodland and buildings), from a battery powered alerting device (shock tag) that fits in the palm of your hand. LoRa works using low frequency radio waves more powerful than the higher frequency Bluetooth, hence the longer range, which in applications that do not require to transmit large amounts of data, is a significant advantage. This higher power also allows LoRa to better penetrate obstacles Following on from recent trials, the alerting system has welcomed many enhancements including a solar powered version of the Cube and PIR (movement) and magnetic switch tags (suitable for gate monitoring) to suit particular applications. The Secured by Design panel stated that the uWatch system will help “prevent, reduce and solve crime” and that “there is nothing like it on the market.” The uWatch system allows us all to take responsibility for the security of our possessions and join forces with our local community and the police to fight crime. Contact the uWatch Team uwatchadmin@uwatch.co.uk or call 01491 651229
ENJOY SUMMER WITH OUT AND OUT! Don’t miss out! Visit www.outandout.com today and quote the discount code to receive £400 off selected garden furniture sets.
SUMMER SALE! GET £400 OFF SELECTED GARDEN FURNITURE! OFFER MUST END 25TH JUNE 2022! Chesterton Corner Rattan Set
SAVE £400
Sit in luxury with this rustic and comfortable lounge set, made from durable polyrattan making it completely maintenance-free. The tempered glass-topped coffee table brings a touch of class and the seat and back cushions are easily removable making it so easy to look after. Seating 5 people with ease, this lounge set will be all you need to make your evenings stress free. Normally £1199. Now £799* To receive your £400 discount use code CGMAY22 at checkout.
Marbella Corner Lounge Set
SAVE £400
Relax in your garden without a care in the world with this stunning rattan lounge set. Brought to you in an elegant Earth Grey colour theme, this set will add character and personality to your garden. With its galvanised steel frame, this set is virtually maintenance-free and seats 5 comfortably so you can entertain outside with ease. Includes a tempered glass-topped coffee table.
Normally £1199. Now £799* To receive your £400 discount use code CGMAY22 at checkout.
E CK C O AN ST R EA
CL
SAVE £400
Marrakesh Garden Lounge Set
!
The modern Marrakesh Garden Lounge Set is perfect for entertaining while also being extremely durable. The set sits up to 5 people and comes with a handy square coffee table. There’s practical slatted detailing either side of the sofa, perfect for placing your drinks, books or snacks whilst entertaining. The chunky seat and back cushions have polyspun covers that can be removed for washing to keep that fresh look.
Normally £899. Now £499* To receive your £400 discount use code CGMAY22 at checkout.
VISIT WWW.OUTANDOUT.COM TO VIEW OUR FULL RANGE AND GET £400 OFF SELECTED PRODUCTS WHEN YOU ENTER DISCOUNT CODE CGMAY22 AT CHECKOUT. ORDER ONLINE OR CALL TODAY ON 02037 728 752. *Excludes delivery. Prices correct at time of going to press.
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Garden advice If you have any queries, questions or gardening problems you are struggling to solve then write to us at Country Gardener Magazine, Mount House, Halse, Taunton TA4 3AD or email editorial@countrygardener.co.uk We have a huge postbag of queries and cannot promise to answer them all but will do our best. How can I stop badgers digging up my lawn? It is become a scene of devastation over the last few weeks. Alan Briton Chard Like rural foxes, badgers are becoming more tolerant of us, venturing into our gardens in search of easy pickings. This is good news for badger lovers but with their powerful front legs and sharp claws they can destroy a lawn or compost heap in minutes. Badgers are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foodstuffs, including earthworms, insect larvae, plant bulbs, and fruit and vegetables. When they dig holes in your garden or compost heap they are looking for food. Other common sources of food that will attract them include spilled bird food, especially peanuts, which they love. Badgers are a protected species, so you must not trap, harm or otherwise interfere with them. Removing potential food sources is the easiest course of action. This means not allowing spilled bird seed to accumulate on the floor. You could try feeding the badgers in a controlled area for them to enjoy in a non-destructive way, sidestepping the problem. Peanuts always go down well and a steady supply on the patio will enable you to enjoy watching them without risking your lawn. Be aware though: once you’ve started feeding them, you’ll have to maintain it, otherwise they’ll learn that your garden is a great source of food and if you don’t provide it they’ll forage for it themselves.
Our home-grown compost is full of unwanted seedlings and very disappointing as it is ruining the quality of the heap. What have I been doing wrong? Amanda Porter Minehead You shouldn’t add weeds that are in seed or even in the late part of their blooming cycle to the compost to avoid the problem. Heat or lack of it is most often the answer. The bigger the compost pile, the more heat it produces… and heat kills seeds, even weed seeds. If you don’t have a compost thermometer, try sinking your hand into the pile. If it’s so hot for you to feel uncomfortable, it’s heating up enough. Do not forget to turn the pile regularly, not only because that helps to oxygenate it and thus stimulates microbial life, leading to and maintaining higher temperatures, but also so the ingredients on the outside of the pile, where it’s cooler, can also get their full heat treatment.
We have a new Devon garden but much of it is on a sloping site. Are there any plants which will help to stabilise it? Marie Grahame Graham Barnstaple Sloped properties pose challenges with their potential to erode, dry out, and their exposure. The first steps to planting a sloping area are to evaluate the pitch and runoff. If the pitch is more than 30 degrees, it might be a good idea to terrace the area to prevent topsoil from eroding and all moisture evacuating every time you water or it rains. Although growing plants on a hillside can be a challenge, once established they can transform the area and help keep soil from slowly sweeping down into the flatter parts of the terrain. Taller shrubs and bushes add many seasons of interest and will help give the area a sculpted appeal. Just remember that young plants will need additional moisture, staking and training as they establish. To keep maintenance down, choose plants that produce very little mess which would otherwise require extra work to clean up annually. Some plants that work well on slopes include: burning bush, fragrant sumac, Japanese yew, California lilac, creeping juniper, dwarf forsythia, snowberry, and cypresses.
Horsetail is invading my allotment and spreading all over neighbouring plots. I am not sure how to control it without chemicals which I am not keen on using. Andy Parker Cheltenham Horsetail roots go down as far two metres in some cases, so the deeper you dig the better and that is the best option- digging it all out. Getting as much of the root out is crucial. And never put it in your compost heap – burn it. According to the RHS horsetail can persist for several years. Because rhizomes lay dormant for a number of years, they’ll quite happily survive in a compost bin, until you empty out your compost bin into your borders. It’s very difficult to get the whole plant and root structure out of the ground, so it’s inevitable you’ll miss a bit. Once dug out, plant something else into the ground such as marigolds or dahlias to take up some of the moisture and create shade. If you have a large area that’s covered in horsetail – it can be back breaking work to dig this out manually. You’re better off covering the area with heavy duty black matting and leaving the area for a year or two. See the article on weeds on page 50.
26
How can I get rid of geranium sawfly from my garden? Tamsin Danvers Poole The greyish green larvae of geranium sawfly feed on geranium leaves during spring and summer. Sawflies are small winged insects, related to bees, wasps and ants. Their caterpillarlike larvae feed on the leaves or fruits of certain plants, including apples, gooseberries and Solomon’s seal. However they rarely cause severe defoliation and are part of the biodiversity a healthy garden can support. Encourage predators and other natural enemies of sawfly in the garden, such as birds and ground beetles. Check plants regularly from May for the presence of larvae and remove by hand where practical.
Country Gardener
Can I grow plants from banana seeds? I read something a while ago and have been tempted to try. Katie Walters Exeter You cannot grow a banana tree from a commercially cultivated banana fruit. But, if you can get hold of seeds from a supplier then yes it is possible. If you want to grow seed grown bananas, be aware that the resulting fruit will not be like those you buy in the shops. They will contain seeds and, depending upon the variety, might be so large that the fruit is difficult to get to. But if you really want to try, begin germinating the banana seeds, soak the seed in warm water for 24 to 48 hours to break the seed dormancy. This softens the seed coat, enabling the embryo to sprout more easily and rapidly. The time that a banana seed germinates, again, depends on the variety. Some germinate in two to three weeks while others may take two or more months, so be patient when propagating banana plants via seed.
COMPETITION Lily of the valley is growing like a weed in my garden, and I can’t get rid of it. I appreciate some of your readers will be aghast at this but it has spread far too much and I must try and do something about it. Joanna Prescott-Smith Winchester Lily of the valley, scientifically referred to as Convallaria majalis, is a beautiful plant with a delightful scent. It’s nice to have in your garden, but yes can be annoying when it spreads and takes over what’s nearby. Some do consider it an invasive plant. The rhizomes or the roots of it can form large colonies. Even a small rhizome left in the soil can grow into a full-grown plant. Killing off lily of the valley isn’t impossible, but it needs patience and persistence. Using your spade or a flatbladed shovel, dig up the plants and as many roots as you can. Then, rake the area to remove any roots that are stuck to the soil. You may need to wear your gloves and use your hands to sift through the soil and remove any smaller pieces of the roots left behind. Lastly, bag up the removed lily of the valleys and dispose of them. This method is best done when the soil is moist. It’s effective and environmentally friendly, but it needs a lot of effort and patience.
My olive tree planted about seven years ago is decidedly unhealthy looking, with hardly any leaves on the bottom two thirds of the plant. Is it dying? Neal Elliot Bristol It might be too early to say and certainly don’t give up yet. One of the biggest indicators of an olive tree’s health is its leaves. If they’re dropping off the tree more than they usually do, as you say yours is. Then something serious is up. Olive trees can thrive in dry, hot conditions in the Mediterranean, so it’s perhaps not surprising that excessive amounts of water can jeopardise their growth and overall health. If the soil your tree is planted in doesn’t drain effectively enough, the tree can become waterlogged quite quickly – an olive’s roots are small and shallow. Prolonged overwatering can lead to leaves dropping off and the roots rotting away. If you’ve recently moved your olive tree to a new location, it can take time to adjust. Moving it from a sunny spot into a shadier one can ‘shock’ the tree, leading to a loss of leaves – as can intense temperatures.
Hedges on three sides of my garden are in a bad state, scruffy and overgrown. I just couldn’t fine the time to cut them back in the late winter. I am very worried now about doing anything with the nesting season in full throttle but how long do I have to wait? Dan Ferris Torquay The law is very clear – you must avoid hedge cutting during the main breeding season for nesting birds, which usually runs throughout March to August each year. This can be weather dependent, and some birds may nest outside this period, so it is important to always check carefully for active nests prior to cutting. Although within the Wildlife & Countryside Act no dates are legally stated between which hedges cannot be trimmed, cut, laid or coppiced, the main bird breeding season is recognised as being between 1st March and 31st July. Therefore, the risk of committing any of the above offences is increased between these dates. All wild birds are protected. This includes their nests (whilst in use or being built) as well as any eggs the nest may contain. Under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), it is an offence to cut hedges back between these dates.
Why do my biodegradable pots go mouldy? It seems to happen every year. Sharon Smith Liphook The whitish or brown moulds that grow on the surface of peat pots and other organic materials are unsightly but will not harm healthy seedlings. However, the presence of moulds may indicate excessive moisture levels. It is very possible that you have been overwatering them and this is the result. Overwatering may lead to damping-off and other serious problems.
Win a pair of supersoft, stylish
BACKDOORSHOES FLIP-FLOPS We’ve 20 pairs to be won
Backdoorshoes® flip-flops are a perfect accessory for any outing. Their range is colourful and features unique patterns to include Meadow, Poppies, Bluebells and Grass. We are delighted to be offering you a chance to win a pair of Flip Flops by entering our competition. Backdoorshoes® clogs were created to solve the problem of how to make quick trips into the garden without having to bother with boots or fiddle with laces - and without getting soggy socks. They slip on and off easily, and are waterproof, lightweight, durable and comfortable. They are made from a vegan-friendly foam EVA formula that won’t crack or perish, with removable washable insoles. The array of colourful, characterful designs continues to expand with Bees and Slate joining the men’s Chunky Tread range, in sizes UK 8-14 and Green Camo added to the women’s range which come in sizes UK 3-8. For more information on the ever increasing range (to include Ultralight Wellies and Chelsea ‘Jumpy’ Boots) visit www.backdoorshoes.co.uk and check out the entertaining new videos for more reasons why every back door needs Backdoorshoes®
To enter just answer the following question... Name either one of the new Men’s Chunky Tread range. Put your answer on a postcard and sent to: Backdoorshoes Competition, Country Gardener Magazine, Mount House, Halse, Taunton, Somerset TA4 3AD. Closing date for entries is Wednesday, 30th June. The competition winners will be announced in the next available edition of Country Gardener.
www.countrygardener.co.uk
27
GLORIOUSLY GARDENS
rewilding
The NGS has embraced the change in gardening habits and is now offering more diverse gardens for the public to see which reflect wild and woodland gardens
Any ideas about rewilding in our gardens seems a contradiction in terms when you think of the National Garden Scheme, which historically was all about the large gardens, manicured lawns, rhododendrons and roses, and even the more modest modern gardens on display have been expected to be neat and tidy. Now the NGS has embraced the change in gardening habits and the need to reflect the growing awareness of climate change; the gardens that open for the organisation to raise funds for nursing and caring charities are much more diverse. There are many gardens opening for the NGS these days with wild meadow planting in urban spaces and woodland gardens, as well as those with neat borders, tidy lawns and areas of modern landscaping. In rural west Dorset there are three new gardens opening in June for the NGS that have taken the principles of caring for nature even further, with brilliant displays of rewilding, at Hooke Farm, Hooke, Beaminster, Hogchester Farm at Charmouth, and Wyke Farm, Chedington near Beaminster. “As the concept of rewilding has come to the fore, I felt that it was important that we started to include gardens and rewilding projects within the National Garden Scheme,” says Alison Wright, South West Regional Chair and Dorset County Organiser. “Following the pandemic many of our gardens in Dorset have been extended to include wildflower meadows, woodland walkways, and have also started to embrace a return to nature, allowing our visitors to enjoy greater diversity on an open day. This year we have three important rewilding projects opening for us for the first time, Hooke Farm, Hogchester Farm and Wyke Farm. The knowledge and expertise of these garden owners is exceptional, and I am delighted that we will be able to share these fabulous rewilding projects with a wider gardening audience.”
Hooke Farm, Hooke, Beaminster, Dorset DT8 3NZ opens for the NGS on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th June, 10.30am-5.30pm both days. HOOKE FARM has been transformed into a peatfree wildlife haven with bird boxes, bat caves, butterflies and bee-friendly wildflower meadows. The landscaping project includes a series of ponds in a wetland area, orchard trees and woodland planting all interlinked with mown paths through swaying grass. There are standing stones, a stilted henhouse, a giant throne and driftwood stags. There will be talks and guided tours on both afternoons, covering different aspects of wilding and environmentally friendly gardening. This will include butterflies, moths, reptiles, weed control, tree maintenance, grassland management and how to attract insects and birds. Admission £8, children £4. Locally sourced lunch, cream teas and refreshments throughout the day, or you can bring a picnic. Dogs are allowed on leads and there’s partial wheelchair access.
Wyke Farm, Chedington, Beaminster, Dorset DT8 3HX opens for the NGS on Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th, 9.30am-5pm both days.
Hogchester Farm, Axminster Road, Charmouth, Bridport, Dorset DT6 6BY opens for the NGS on Saturday 25th June and Saturday 16th July, 9am6pm both open days.
The farm house garden was planted when the building of the house was finished in 2005. There are herbaceous borders and lawns around the house. There is a rose garden that leads to a woodland garden, then a more formal courtyard garden that leads through the barn to a kitchen garden. At the front of the house there are wildflower meadows which the owners have been establishing for about 15 years.
HOGCHESTER FARM is a collaboration between those seeking connection with nature and themselves through conservation therapy and the arts. The 75-acre old dairy farm has been largely gifted to nature which has helped to preserve the overflowing abundance of natural life. Having worked closely with the Dorset Wildlife Trust, Hogchester Farm has been able to preserve wild meadows and wilding areas which are filled with local flora and fauna including wild orchids, foxgloves and primroses. The farm offers something for everyone, making a great family day out with a treasure hunt for children in the wild meadow area, many animals including rare breed sheep, goats, pigs and horses, as well as horticulture based therapy for general mental health and well-being. Admission £4, children £1. Café on the hillside will offer tea, coffee, soft drinks, cakes and light refreshments. Coaches are allowed and this is a venue offering accommodation.
Admission £8, children free. Refreshments available, in aid of Horatio’s Garden. Plants will be on sale and there’s wheelchair access, although the paths are gravel. 28
Country Gardener
GREAT PLACES TO VISIT
INDULGE YOURSELF with a
gardening day out There is no better time to indulge a passion in visiting gardens than in the long languid days of June. Flower borders are bursting with bold, beautiful colours and the grass has yet to turn to the colour of straw. It’s also a bumper time for garden events, villages and communities work hard with open gardens, plant shows and plant fairs who tempt gardeners to buy plants and the great and famous gardens of the south west are all at their best. Our favourite reason to visit gardens is to find inspiration, make a note of plants that catch your eye, take photos, and see if there’s anything you can take home with you as an idea for your own gardens. You might find something unique. Certainly, this is the time of year when many gardens are at their peak – full of spectacular displays of roses clambering up walls and across pergolas, or swathes of lavender bushes that release a heady scent as you brush past. We’ve rounded up some of the summer gardens and events to visit, so you can make the most of the season.
Cotswold Garden Flowers at their June best Who could not fail to want to visit the Cotswold Garden Flowers display garden developed over 30 years by Bob Brown and discover which plants have become established in their limey clay soil. Tulipa sprengeri, camassia and other summer flowering bulbs have found plenty of spaces to fill. We are also growing a range of peonies and lots of other plants. Many of these plants can be bought from the sales area. Enjoy a day out in Evesham Vale and feel free to picnic at the nursery. Dogs on leads please. Cotswold Garden Flowers, Sands Lane, Badsey, Evesham 01386 833849 info@cgf.net Enjoy a day out in Evesham Vale
www.cgf.net
Visit Dartington’s Grade II* listed gardens
Badminton House Garden Open Days SUNDAYS 19TH JUNE AND 4TH SEPTEMBER 2022 10AM-4PM
Tickets PRE-BOOKED TICKETS £7.50 PER ADULT ON THE DAY ENTRY £10 CHILDREN UNDER 12: FREE
Tickets and full information available through the website: www.badmintonestate.com
Experience the tranquillity of our Grade II* listed gardens, the only example of landscape architect Beatrix Farrand’s work in the UK, featuring lawned terraces, colourful borders, woodland glades, ancient trees and original sculptures including a Henry Moore.
Any questions please contact the Estate Office on 01454 218203 or by email estateoffice@badmintonestate.com
Dartington.org www.countrygardener.co.uk
29
GREAT PLACES TO VISIT
Eighth garden festival hosted in Bishop’s Palace gardens, Wells The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens in Wells is the popular venue for the eighth garden festival held in a spectacular setting on Friday 17th, Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th June. The 14-acre grounds will feature guided tours, live music, expert speakers, delicious food, skills and crafts and several stalls, including nurseries selling unusual and popular plants. Mark Bobin, head gardener at Minterne Gardens will be talking about the Himalayan garden deep in the Dorset countryside - its history, its plants and plans for the future. Troy Scott Smith, head gardener at Sissinghurst and Sarah Venn from Incredible Edible in Bristol will also be giving talks over the weekend. Three of the region’s most skilled florists will also be on hand to advise visitors on how to get the best out of this year’s flowers. One highlight will be Saturday’s demonstrations by Maria Heffer of The Bath Greenhouse. Maria’s detailed demonstration will spill the secrets of how dried flowers can make a fabulous bouquet. The festival is a fundraising event for the Palace Trust with tickets priced at £13.50 for adults, £10 for students/Blue Lights discount, £6.50 for five year olds to 17 years, members and under 5s free. Tickets are available from the Palace’s website (www.bishopspalace.org.uk) and by telephone on 01749 988 111, with advance discounts and group rates available.
Cadhay celebrates with 40 varieties of roses
VIBRANT COLOUR EXPLODES AT MARWOOD HILL June is a time of vibrant colour at Marwood Hill Garden, with displays of candelabra primulas in yellow, orange, pink, purple and red, planted in drifts along the stream and lake margins. It is also the beginning of the Astilbe season, early flowering varieties such as ‘Europa’, ‘Ceres’ and ‘Queen of Holland’ erupt with pink and white feathery flower plumes located at the heart of the garden. In the herbaceous borders, brilliant blue iris sibirica rub shoulders with white flowering Phlox, contrasting well with various silver leaved Artemisia and deep plum-purple coloured poppy Papaver ‘Lauren’s Grape’. The Mediterranean terrace, tearoom borders and scree garden show a growing collection of aromatic and colourful salvias in flower. Elsewhere across the garden the curiously named paradise lily, with its elegant and fragrant spires of white trumpet-flowers. Early flowering hydrangea such as the unusual violet-purple flowering hydrangea serrata ‘preziosa’ and hydrangea aspera Villosa are also well worth a look.
The two medieval fishponds which form the backbone of the Cadhay garden really come into their own at this time of year with their water lilies and edged by flag irises and hostas. There are over 40 varieties of roses in the gardens and the allotments are in great shape this year. The new garden created beyond the pond has just been chosen by a bride and groom as a location for their ceremony which is a great tribute to the designer. Cadhay is open on Friday afternoons throughout the summer from 2pm. Contact jayne@cadhay.org.uk or 01404 813511
Marwood Hill Garden, Marwood, Nr Guineaford, Barnstaple, EX31 4EB www.marwoodhillgarden.co.uk
Cadhay, Ottery Saint Mary EX11 1QT
AT CIRENCEST E R PA RK
Sat 2nd and Sun 3rd July 2022 Ben Atkinson Action Horses Savage Skills BMX Show The Black Stallion Falconry Display Hawkeye Falconry Polo Demonstration Harvesting in Action Parade of Hounds Media Partners
Tree climbing and Go Carts World of Dogs Traditional Rural Skills Cookery Theatre and Food Hall Sheep Show and Rare Breads Pavilion Over 200 Exhibitors & MUCH MUCH MORE!
cotswoldshow.co.uk KIDS GO FREE
Early Bird Tickets
£12
BOOK O
NLINE
Show Partners
Witchampton Open Gardens Four miles north of Wimborne • BH21 5AG
Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th June 11am - 4.30pm (last entry) 15 Gardens • All day refreshments Plant stall • Arts and crafts stall Live music • Historic photos of Witchampton
Want to advertise in one of our features? We offer special all counties prices when advertising with our features, plus 100 words of free editorial with an advert. Speak to one of our sales people for more details.
Admission £8 (under 16 free)
In aid of the church and village organisations 30
Country Gardener
26 acres of tended grounds highlight Dartington as a very special place Dartington’s impressive Grade II* listed gardens have been shaped and inspired by the remarkable custodians of this special place for over 1,000 years. It emits a sense of pure tranquillity.
WELL BEHAVED DOGS ON LEADS WELCOME
Tea Room & Walled Garden Nursery
Nestled in the heart of North Devon, Marwood Hill Garden is a hidden gem Home to four National Plant Heritage collections, this private valley garden spans over 20-acres and showcases three stunning lakes, rare trees & shrubs, and colourful surprises throughout each season. Not only a haven for wildlife, the garden is also the perfect environment to explore and be inspired.
Henry Moore’s ‘Reclining Figure’
Enjoy a day of inspirational and relaxation for the whole family.
Some of the highlights to be found in the 26 acres of tended grounds include an ancient yew tree which is at least 1500 years old, a 150-year-old Lucombe Oak, a row of Sweet Chestnuts which are believed to be over 400 years old, an incredible magnolia collection and the Henry Moore ‘Reclining Figure’ sculpture which was designed specifically for Dartington, among many other delights to be discovered. It is also the only example of landscape architect, Beatrix Farrand’s work in the UK, as she was brought over by Dorothy and Leonard Elmhirst from America to redesign the courtyard in the 1930s. Dartington is an RHS Partner Garden. www.dartington.org Dartington Estate, Totnes, TQ9 6EL
Catch up over coffee and homemade cake or a cream tea in the picturesque Garden Tea Room or take a bit of Marwood magic home with you from our Walled Garden Nursery and Plant Sales.
Enquiries & Tea Room 01271 342528 Plant Sales & Nursery 01271 342577 e info@marwoodhillgarden.co.uk w marwoodhillgarden.co.uk Marwood Hill Gardens, Marwood, Barnstaple, Devon EX31 4EA
HARTLAND ABBEY GARDENS SPECTACULAR IN JUNE June is a wonderful time to visit the Hartland Abbey gardens on the north Devon coast and also to see the wildflowers in this hidden corner the county. Hartland is renowned for its foxgloves flowering where St Nectan’s blood from his severed head dripped as he carried it round the parish under his arm! With the lovely walks from the Abbey to the gardens and the sea, wildflowers are in abundance and on the coast in June. The house and gardens will be open as usual from Sundays to Thursdays and on Friday also during the Platinum Jubilee weekend. The main reception rooms and the bedrooms will be closed from June 20th to July 15th for filming but all the exhibitions, museum, gift shop and tea rooms will be open as usual from 11am to 5pm. All details are on www.hartlandabbey.com Hartland Abbey, Hartland, Stoke, Bideford EX39 6DT
WITCHHAMPTON HAS 15 VILLAGE GARDENS OPEN FOR VISITORS TO ENJOY
GARDENS & TEAROOM Open every Friday 2pm - 5.30pm from 6th May to 30th September
Also last weekend in May & August Bank Holiday weekend - Sat, Sun & Mon GARDENS: adult £5, child £1
CADHAY, OTTERY ST. MARY, DEVON, EX11 1QT 01404 813511 www.cadhay.org.uk Member of Historic Houses
Witchampton is one of the jewels of East Dorset, hugging the high ground to the west of the beautiful Allen valley, four miles north of Wimborne. It dates from Roman times and is considered one of the county’s best preserved villages. Witchampton’s biennial Open Gardens weekend on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th June is an anticipated event and due to Covid, this will be the first such occasion for three years. Some 15 gardens are scheduled to open over the weekend – the grand and the modest, the formal and the relaxed, riverside and hillside, old friends, and new wannabees. It will include a few gardens that open individually under the National Gardens Scheme. To accompany this floral extravaganza, there will be food and refreshments, a plants stall, an arts and crafts stall, and hot music and cold beer at the Witchampton Club. There will be free tractor rides through the village. A weekend ticket to all the gardens costs £8 (under 16’s are free) with complementary parking at BH21 5AG. Blue badge parking will also be available. All proceeds go to village activities. For more information contact Tim Read on 01258 840438 or tim@witchampton.org. Witchampton Open Gardens, Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th June, 11am to 5pm (last entry 4.30pm).
46th Cerne Abbas
Open Gardens About 25 Private Gardens Open
18th & 19th June, 2-6pm Day ticket to all gardens £7 Ticket for 2 days £10 Accompanied children free Teas in St Mary’s Church from 1pm Well stocked plant stall from 1pm Free Car Park (DT2 7GD) from 1pm Equal proceeds to: Young People’s Trust & the Dorchester Youth Theatre
Keep up to date: www.cerneabbasopengardens.org.uk
www.countrygardener.co.uk
HINTON ST MARY DORSET DT10 1NA
GARDENS OPEN
SATURDAY & SUNDAY 18th & 19th JUNE 2022 2PM - 6PM Adults: £6 (tickets valid for both days) Children under 14 free Many village gardens, including the manor gardens will be open and cream teas in the Tithe Barn ‘Old Hinton’ exhibition in the church Plants, books, and ‘collectables and home decoration’ stalls Sorry No Dogs Ample Free Parking 31
GREAT PLACES TO VISIT
BOSCREGE, A BREATH OF CORNISH FRESH AIR Boscrege Caravan and Touring Park in Cornwall is a peaceful and picturesque park, set at the foot of Tregonning Hill, Godolphin National Trust and amongst a myriad of Cornish lanes in an area of outstanding natural beauty. The park, open all year through, is situated close to the wonderful Cornwall coast and only a few minutes’ drive to Praa Sands, one of Britain’s best beaches. St Ives, Penzance, Hayle, Lands’ End, The Lizard Peninsular, Helston and Falmouth and many other Cornwall attractions and beaches are very easily visited from the central location in West Cornwall. And new this year, an exciting development of single/twin lodges available to buy with a 20-year site licence and two years free site fees. Come for a two-night free stay, available for genuine buyers. Boscrege Caravan Park, Boscrege, Ashton, Cornwall TR13 9TG Tel: 01736 762231 www.caravanparkcornwall.com
OVER 20 GARDENS OPEN AT HINTON ST MARY JUNE WEEKEND Hinton St Mary Gardens Open Weekend will raise funds for St Peter’s Church and will be held on Saturday, 18th and Sunday, 19th June from 2pm to 6pm on each day. The Manor House Gardens will be open as well as over 20 other gardens in the village. This event takes place every two years, and its financial success is essential to the future of the church. Cream teas and home-made cakes will be served in the Tithe Barn, and there will be plants, collectables and second handbooks on sale. Hinton St Mary is a small, picturesque village with a number of thatched and listed cottages located one mile north of Sturminster Newton. It is well known to archaeologists for the important Roman Mosaic discovered in 1963, which is now in the British Museum and is thought to be the world’s first depiction of the head of Christ. Admission £5 - children free. Postcode: DT10 1NA. No dogs please. Ample free parking and disabled facilities Further information: www.hintonstmary.com
Garden at Miserden hosts sculpture bonanza exhibition The Cotswold Sculptors Association are hosting the ‘Creating Spaces 2022’ exhibition in the Garden at Miserden overlooking the rolling Cotswold hills The estate encompasses 850 acres of woodland and extensive farmland which provides a sanctuary for wildlife and unrivalled walks. Its timeless 17th century walled garden offers spectacular views over the deer park, rolling Cotswold hills and beyond. The exhibition will use the 130 pieces of sculpture in the garden garden as the canvas of the exhibition with 130 pieces being placed within the garden and 70 sculptures designed for indoor settings, being exhibited within The Club Room, in the centre of Miserden village, two minutes’ walk away. The Cotswold Sculpture Association is proud to be exhibiting in such a magnificent setting. www.cotswoldsculptorsassociation.com
TWO SPECIAL DATES FOR GARDENS IN GROUNDS OF BADMINTON HOUSE Badminton House Open Gardens are opening this summer for two special events on Sunday, 19th June to mark the beginning of summer and later in the year on Sunday, 4th September. Explore the usually private gardens within the grounds of Badminton House, home to the Duke and Duchess of Beaufort and take in the exquisite roses, wisteria and more. Plants and flowers will be available to purchase from local sellers, plus food, hot drinks, and ice cream. All children under 12 go free. Gates open from 10am until 4pm. Money raised from this event supports Severn Area Rescue Association. Badminton House offers a great welcome to visitors.
June Fairs 5th June High Glanau Manor, Nr. Monmouth NP25 4AD 12th June Waterperry Gardens, Nr. Oxford OX33 1JZ 19th June Rodmarton Manor, Nr. Tetbury GL7 6PF
www.rareplantfair.co.uk
Badminton, South Gloucestershire, GL9 1DD
Please visit our website for full details of admission fees and times of opening.
Hartland Abbey & Gardens
Enjoy the wildflowers and stunning gardens - open Jubilee Friday too So much to see - a fascinating house, an eclectic mix of architecture and decoration, exhibitions, 18thC walled and woodland gardens and walks to the beach. Location for Enid Blyton’s ‘Malory Towers’ and more... * Homemade light lunches & cream teas * * Dogs welcome * Holiday Cottages * * Hartland Quay 1 mile * House, Gardens etc and Café - open until 3rd October, Sunday to Thursday & Bank Hols. 11am - 5pm (House 2pm - 5pm last adm. 4pm) * Some rooms in house closed 20th June - 15th July for filming *
For more information and events see www.hartlandabbey.com Hartland, Nr. Bideford EX39 6DT 01237441496/234 32
BOSCREGE CARAVAN & CAMPING PARK
THE MOST PICTURESQUE CARAVAN PARK IN CORNWALL With a welcoming atmosphere and set in 12 acres of Cornish countryside only two miles from the beautiful sandy beaches of Praa Sands, Boscrege Caravan & Camping Park is the best place to enjoy your Cornish holiday. Each of our luxury holiday homes comes with a private garden and Wi-Fi. Perfect
for families and couples, we are open all year, and offer seasonal pitches. We offer the following: • Designated dog walking fields • Pet friendly accommodation • Comprehensive storage • Luxury holiday homes for sale
01736 762231 • enquiries@caravanparkcornwall.com www.caravanparkcornwall.com Country Gardener
DELIGHTFUL GARDENS TO INSPIRE YOU PLANT AND GARDEN ADVICE Mail order and click and collect available, or pop along and visit us at the nursery
Groups welcome by appointment Open 7 days a week from 1st April to 30th September. Weekends 10am -5pm, Weekdays 9am-5.30pm
Sands Lane, Badsey, Evesham, WR11 7EZ 01386 833849 info@cgf.net www.cotswoldgardenflowers.co.uk
www.countrygardener.co.uk
33
GREAT PLACES TO VISIT
Great summer days out at Rare Plant Fairs
There is a packed programme of Rare Plant Fairs during June, all held in interesting and unique gardens with their own individual style, making a summer visit to one (or more!) of the events a great day out for gardeners. A selection of specialist nurseries attends each of the fairs, all of whom are experts in the plants that they grow. The full programme is: HIGH GLANAU MANOR, near Monmouth, Sunday, June 5th, 11am to 4pm. These beautiful Arts and Crafts gardens have been lovingly restored by the present owners and offer spectacular views over the Vale of Usk. WATERPERRY GARDENS, near Oxford, on Sunday, June 12th, 10am to 4pm. The former teaching gardens at Waterperry have now been transformed into stunning ornamental gardens at this iconic venue, including a rose garden, formal knot garden and a canal studded with waterlilies. RODMARTON MANOR, near Tetbury, Gloucestershire,on Sunday, June 19th, 11am to4pm. The fair is set in magnificent Arts and Crafts gardens surrounding the Manor House, and include formal and topiary gardens, classic herbaceous borders and a woodland garden. Visit the website at www.rareplantfair.co.uk for full details, including admission charges and a list of the exhibitors.
CROSSWORD
country gardener
CROSSWORD WIN £100 IN RHS GIFT TOKENS
There’s a special bumper crossword to enjoy this month compiled by Saranda. The winning entry to be drawn by us will receive £100 of RHS gift tokens . Completed entries should be sent to Mount House, Halse, Taunton, Somerset TA4 3AD. The closing date is Friday 24th June. The winner of the May crossword was XXXXXX 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
12
8
9
10
11
13 14
15
16
17
18
19
21
22
23
20
24
25 26
27
28
29
31
32
36
37
40
33
38
46
Cotswolds Show set to be the biggest yet The Cotswold Show was founded by Lord Bathurst in 1989 to showcase everything about our glorious countryside and farming. Since then the show has grown seeing over 30,000 people each year. This year’s show on 2nd and 3rd July is set to be the biggest ever with a huge array of attractions, shopping and a large food hall and cookery theatre. The show is the perfect day out for families with everything from dog shows, a sheep show, equestrian displays, farming techniques and memorabilia, vintage machinery, traditional rural crafts demonstrations and much more. All tickets bought in advance online save 20% off the price of the gate ticket on the day. www.cotswoldshow.co.uk
CERNE ABBAS GARDENS BACK IN THE OLD OPENING ROUTINE Cerne Abbas first opened some of its village gardens in 1974 when the proceeds helped rehang the church bells. Since then, the village has missed only three years, the last being due to the pandemic in 2020. In 2021 the event was delayed from the usual slot of the third weekend in June and took place in August, visitors enjoying our gardens in high summer. This year it resumes the traditional slot, and the gardens will be open on 18th and 19th June 2-6pm. The beneficiaries, chosen by the gardeners, will be the Youth Trust in Cerne and the Dorchester Youth Theatre. It is expected around 25 gardens will open from 2pm to-6pm mostly with the gardeners on hand to talk about their gardens and gardening experiences. All the gardens are within easy walking distance of the free carpark, open from 1pm, and the plant stall, located in the square, always offers irresistible temptations. Teas are served in the church by the Youth Club. Cerne is dog friendly and almost all gardens welcome well-behaved dogs on leads. Some of the gardens have wheelchair access and these will be marked on the map which is distributed when you buy your ticket which allows access to all gardens on the day of purchase for £7. Accompanied children are free.
34
42
35
43
45
47
ACROSS
DOWN
1. 7. 12. 13.
2. 3. 4. 5.
Stem enlargements in certain orchids (11) Aromatic plant popular as a herbal tea (9) For what James Lovelock is famous? (4,6) Floral occasion to honour war victims of the armed forces (5,3) 15. Rare UK wildflower also called thorow wax (5,3) 16. Star of 1951 comedy, The Lavender Hill Mob (4,8) 17. Pale green seeds of an Asian tree (9,4) 19. From where Rose in Irish ballad originated? (6) 21. Plants of saxifrage family sometimes called fringecups (7) 22. Spanish word for 33 (8) 24. Genus of small tropical trees and shrubs of subfamily Mimosoideae (4) 26. Small, purplish-black fruit similar to a plum (6) 29. Corresponding part or segment (7) 30. Poet (1631-1700) who translated the poem ‘The Flower and the Leaf’ (6) 31. He painted the Meditative Rose in 1958 (4) 32. Dutch city which has the world’s tallest windmill (8) 33. A highly-valued fruit of a tropical tree (7) 36. Large treeless plains in South America (7) 38. Large European tree that produces an edible crop (5,8) 40. Pertaining to the measurement of temperature (12) 42. Relating to or resembling a drum (8) 44. A miniature gas discharge light (4,4) 45. Tree from whose timbers Noah’s Ark was made (6,4) 46. Earliest stage of development in the life cycle of mosses (9) 47. Iconic green area for New Yorkers to enjoy (7,4)
Answers from May 2022 on p53
34
39
41
44
Rodmarton Manor, near Tetbury, one in a packed programme of June Rare Plant Fairs
30
6. 8. 9. 10. 11. 14. 18. 20. 23. 25. 27. 28. 34. 35. 37. 39. 41. 43. 17. 19. 21.
Local name for salvia triloba (4,5) Ubiquitous and comprehensive (9) Offbeat and outlandish (5) Find something in the ground when digging (7) Treelike cactus of tropical America with yellowish fruit (8,10) Used by farmers for cultivating the land (12) Assign or delegate a job to someone (7) Tall white flower of the eastern Mediterranean (7,4) English poet (1880-1958) who wrote ‘The Forest of Wild Thyme’ (5) Also called sunroot and topinambur, a very easy-to-grow vegetable (9,9) Edible nuts of a tree, related to the peach (7) Large bird of prey and score in golf (5) Edible Mediterranean plants whose bitter leaves can be added to salads (7) Genus of plants belonging to the borage family (12) Large Asian plant of the banana family (5) Any plant belonging to the genus Calceolaria (11) Variety of melon with sweet orange flesh (9) Perennial white-flowered pepperwort (9) Rich German fruit and nut bread (7) Outdoor tool that could be useful in garden (7) _____ Blackman, early Bond girl (5) Asiatic bowstring hemp plant found in India (5) Genus of gymnosperm shrubs, some of which are used in medicine (7) Well-loved garden plant with colourful flowers (5) A tall, grass-like plant that favours wet places (4)
MULCH, MULCH AND
more mulch Mulching is generally used to save water, suppress weeds and improve the soil around plants but it also brings a neat, tidy appearance and can reduce the amount of time spent watering and weeding
Mulching is a very underrated concept in our gardens. It is simply a thick layer of material placed over the soil and around plants, used to suppress weeds and lock moisture into the soil, while acting as a physical barrier to drying winds and direct sun. It is basic but it is underrated because of the huge difference it makes to the health, longevity and protection it gives to plants. Some mulches also contain nutrients, acting as slow-release plant food. As worms take the mulch into the soil, they help to improve soil structure, making it more moisture retentive, free-draining and fertile. Organic mulches also contain nutrients, acting as slow-release plant food. What’s more, while they’re breaking down, they attract beetles, worms and other soil invertebrates, which provides food for birds. In winter, a biodegradable mulch can also be used to protect the roots of more delicate plants. In fact, if you do one thing before the weather gets cold, it should be this. Mulching is a fantastic weed suppressant and will help your plants get all the nutrients available, without you having to spend hours weeding. It’s also useful to protect your plants, especially when the temperatures drop. Mulches can be split into two main groups: biodegradable and non-biodegradable. Both types suppress weeds by blocking sunlight which is needed to germinate and grow weed seeds, and conserve moisture by reducing evaporation from the soil surface. Biodegradable mulches will also improve your soil structure. Gradually the worms will drag the mulch down into the soil, improving aeration and drainage. It will improve the nutrient content of the soil too. Some mulches, such as bark chippings, are also useful at deterring garden pests. The rough bark of the mulch will deter slugs and snails as it is too rough to negotiate. Pile it on thickly for the best results. You can also mix in the old compost that’s left over from summer pots and containers to make it stretch a bit further. Non-biodegradable mulches do not boost the fertility or structure of the soil, but they do suppress weeds, conserve moisture and some have the added advantage of looking decorative. Slate, shingle, pebbles, gravel, stone chippings and other decorative aggregates are often used as a mulch across beds. There’s a wide variety of mulches to use - both organic and inorganic - which have different uses in the garden. Organic mulches are made from dead plant material such as compost, leaves, bark or grass clippings. Inorganic mulches include rocks or gravel, but they can also include plastic sheeting, landscape fabric and ‘rubber mulch’. Unlike organic mulches, inorganic mulches do not break down. Indeed some, such as plastic sheeting, can disintegrate over the years and pollute your garden environment. Inorganic mulches don’t add nutrients to the soil and can, in some instances, stop nutrients reaching soils. They can offer a more long-term solution to weed suppression than organic mulches.
ORGANIC MULCHES INCLUDE: Leaf mould - low in nutrients but an excellent soil conditioner, leaf mould provides a quick reward for a little effort. Simply bag up leaves in autumn and they should be ready to mulch around your plants after around 12 months. Well-rotted horse manure - this is packed with nutrients and retains moisture well. It’s excellent for mulching around hungry plants like roses and edibles, especially pumpkins and squashes. Make sure it’s been left to rot for at least two years, otherwise it can ‘scorch’
Clockwise from top left: leaf mould, composted woodchips, mushroom compost, straw mulch
PROBLEMS WITH MULCHING •
•
•
Problems with mulching occur usually when you’ve mulched too thickly, which prevents bulbs and herbaceous plants from growing. Gently use a rake or long-handled cultivator to gently thin out the mulch, which may help plants grow better. Another problem you might experience is when using manure to mulch plants. If this isn’t well-rotted it can scorch plant leaves and even lead to the plant becoming distorted. Some types of inorganic mulch can disintegrate into the soil, heat up the planting area and potentially leach harmful chemicals into the soil.
plant leaves and even remove nutrients from the soil as it breaks down. Homemade garden compost - this is a fantastic allround mulch, great for retaining moisture, suppressing weeds and improving soil. Add kitchen scraps and chopped up garden waste to your compost bin and turn every few months. You should have a useable compost between six and 12 months later. Composted woodchips or bark - this bulky mulch breaks down slowly and is ideal for improving soil structure by improving drainage and making it more
www.countrygardener.co.uk
moisture retentive. Also, its dark colour offsets the green of plants beautifully. Mushroom compost - often bought as ‘spent’ mushroom compost, this alkaline mulch is light and easy to use. Given its high pH, it’s ideal for lime-loving vegetables, including brassicas like kale, cabbages and broccoli. Straw - One of the best mulching materials you can use around your vegetable and fruit plants, especially if you’re learning how to grow potatoes or even how to grow strawberries.
35
Advertisement
Dawn digs deep with the help of
TURMERIC+
As every keen gardener knows, kneeling down is part and parcel of the job, so it’s essential to be able to comfortably bend your knees. Being an enthusiastic horticulturist, it’s only fi tting that Dawn Schier unearthed the power of the plant world when looking for ways to keep her active so she could continue to enjoy her hobby.
been popular in traditional Indian medicine and is recognised as one of nature’s superfoods. The key active component of turmeric is curcumin. However curcumin is not easily absorbed by the body.
“My interest in gardening was inherited from my father,” recounted Dawn.
The need for easy absorption is what led the scientists at FutureYou Cambridge to create Turmeric+ using the patented ‘Curcuma Phospholipid Complex’ formulation. It’s thirty times more absorbable than standard turmeric and contains vitamins C and D which contribute to normal function of cartilage and normal muscle function.*
“My dad had an allotment and it was there that I inherited his passion for growing fruit and vegetables. For our family, it became part of an everyday healthy lifestyle that we all enjoyed.” Dawn began to have trouble continuing to garden when she noticed her knees were not as flexible as they used to be, so she decided to do something about it. It was this decision that led her to Turmeric+ from FutureYou Cambridge. The spice turmeric has long
Dawn continues, “Although I eat a healthy diet and take plenty of exercise, I was finding even walking around the block caused discomfort. I decided I needed to find something else to provide a helping hand so I started taking Turmeric+.”
“I was amazed. In just a few weeks, I felt like I used to.”
“I was amazed. In just a few weeks, I felt like I used to. It was the only change I made to my lifestyle, so there was no other explanation for the dramatic difference.” Dawn is now able to fully enjoy her lifelong hobby to its full potential again, growing a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. Whilst she reaps the benefi ts
Claim your FREE subscription trial today
Turmeric+ contains the most scientifically documented bioavailable curcumin formulation in existence, having been the focus of 45 human studies involving over 2,000 subjects. It has also been officially recognised and certified by Informed-Sport. The patented curcuma phospholipid complex formulation
Developed in Cambridge
Science you can trust
features a unique phytosome delivery system to significantly increase curcumin bioavailability; an advanced natural alternative to black pepper. Pharmacokinetics studies show it enhances curcumin absorption by 30 times. The vegan-friendly formula contains the full bouquet of curcuminoids including high levels of demethoxycurcumin (DMC), the most powerful curcuminoid. It has also been combined with vitamin C which contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of cartilage. ‘We want to support more people to become or stay active. We think Turmeric+ can play an important role in that journey.
Letterbox Friendly
100% satisfaction, guaranteed
“I love working on my allotment, it provides a good social life, but most importantly it’s where I feel completely relaxed and can enjoy some time to myself.”
HOW TO CLAIM YOUR FREE PACK
Just pay £1.50 postage FutureYou Cambridge are renowned for developing the highest quality health supplements backed by leading scientific research. The Cambridge-based company, who actively work with highly-regarded scientific and nutritional experts, is offering you the opportunity to try its bestselling joint supplement, Turmeric+, for free, for 28 days.*
of all she grows, her favourite is asparagus. Dawn said, “I specialised in growing asparagus some while ago and the other allotment holders have nicknamed me the ‘Asparagus Queen’”.
‘We offer people their first pack of Turmeric+ for free so they can experience the high quality, patented curcumin formulation for themselves. Most will know if it’s working for them within four to eight weeks – and if they like it, they will stick with it.’ says Adam Cleevely, FutureYou Cambridge’s CEO. ‘I’ve been genuinely amazed by the effect of Turmeric+. It’s transformative. As far as I’m concerned, I’ll be taking it for the rest of my life.’ said James, 54, from London.
Award-winning Customer Care
To claim your free 28 day Turmeric+ subscription trial pack worth £16.80, visit FutureYouOffers.co.uk or freephone
0800 808 5740 quoting code
TF360 Your first box is free (just pay £1.50 postage) and you will be enrolled into a flexible subscription costing £16.80 every 28 days, which you can cancel at any time, without obligation.
EXCELLENT Over 4,000 reviews
*Turmeric+ contains vitamin C which contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of cartilage and bones. Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal muscle function. Introductory offer valid for new UK customers only. Offer expires 31st July 2022. Cancel any time, without obligation. See FutureYouHealth.com/TF360 for full terms and conditions.
36
Country Gardener
JOBS FOR THE MONTH
JOBS IN THE
June garden 1
2
Take hydrangea cuttings
The longest day of the year is amazingly only a few weeks away and the garden is growing at a rapid pace. The frenzy of spring should be slowing into a more regular rhythm. The hundreds of young plants you have been raising should have left the confines of the greenhouse and are now making their own way in the world. Consequently, all you must do in terms of your gardening jobs is keep up with the watering, weeding, grass cutting, hedge trimming, etc, etc.
Pinch out tomato side shoots
Cordon tomatoes are best grown as single-stemmed plants. However, these vigorous plants naturally produce side-shoots from the joints where leaves sprout from the main stem. These sideshoots should be pinched out to keep plants growing vertically on just one stem. Large side shoots can be used as cuttings to start other plants. You can stand them in a glass of water for a week or two or use rooting gel. Sometimes tomato growers allow a large side shoot to grow into a second main stem. This has the advantage of growing more trusses at a lower height from one plant. Bush varieties, also known as determinate, do not need to have their side shoots removed. However, there are situations when it may be wise to remove some of them if growing large tomatoes and you would like the fruit to mature earlier rather than later. Of course, by removing side shoots on bush varieties, you will reduce the number of flowers and fruit that would grow over a long season.
Now is the ideal time to take cuttings from any hydrangea shrub. Take a cutting from a branch of the hydrangea shrub about five inches long. The belief is the cutting will work best if taken from a branch that did not flower this year. Remove the lower leaves of the bottom two leaf nodes. The leaf node is where a leaf comes out of the branch. Remove the lower leaves from the stem and if the top leaves are large, cut them in half to help reduce water loss and wilting.
3
Strategic watering is called for
In dry spells, make sure you thoroughly water anything that’s been planted in the past couple of months as it will still be growing roots into the surrounding soil. A good drench is better than a regular light sprinkling. Patio pots and hanging baskets will need watering at least once a day, more in hot weather.
5 4
Be more aggressive on thinning fruit
The natural June drop will see many small fruitlets fall from your trees, but for the best-size fruits it’s worth checking to see if you need to thin more of them, that is remove excess fruit. • Thin apples to one fruit per cluster: for dessert apple varieties, thin to 10-15cm between clusters; and for cooking varieties, thin to 15-23cm between clusters. • Pears should be reduced to two fruits per cluster, with clusters 1015cm apart. • Plums should be thinned to five to eight cms apart. • Peaches should be thinned to 2025cm apart. Nectarines should be thinned to 15cm apart.
6
Time to plant biennials Biennials, such as honesty, wallflowers and sweet rocket, are sown in spring to flower the following year. You can either move young plants to a nursery bed in a quiet spot outdoors for moving again in the autumn or put them in their flowering positions. You’ll find plants at the local garden centre or via online retailers.
What to plant over the next few weeks
Sow seeds of annual flowers to fill gaps. Mix the seeds into sand or cover seeds with a mix of potting compost and sand so you can easily spot which areas you have sown and don’t enthusiastically hoe or pull up seedlings by mistake. Remember to keep the soil moist until they have germinated and the seedlings have grown into their space. Keep sowing salad leaves and lettuces. If you find them too fiddly try using seed tape – seeds set into paper tape-a clever way of ensuring you don’t sow too thickly. Plus, it ensures straight rows. They are a bit more expensive but satisfying. Sow spinach and kale. Both are useful crops that are easy to grow and good to eat. Sow F1 varieties for reliable performance. Use the thinnings for salads. June is the last time realistically to sow green beans. www.countrygardener.co.uk
7
Deadhead and feed roses After the first flush of flowers deadhead repeat flowering roses, just nip off the faded flowers right underneath. Don’t be tempted to remove a lot of stem under each fading flower. Simply cut straight under the spent flower, or pinch it off with your fingers. Deadheading this way helps your roses to rebloom quickly. Feed them with a high potash pelleted food. This will produce more flower and the potash will toughen up the foliage and help it to resist diseases. Roses that flower only once should be left because many produce attractive hips that add winter interest.
37
8
Feed plants
Liquid tomato feed can be used as a supplement on ornamental as well as productive plants. Anything potted into compost and containerised, such as summer bedding, will benefit from a fortnightly feed of tomato feed because the nutrients in the compost run out after three to four weeks. If you find the watering can too heavy, invest in a smaller one. Feed all greenhouse crops such as cucumbers and tomatoes and continue to apply a fortnightly feed until the beginning of September. Agapanthus, often said to thrive on a poor diet, respond well to being fed with tomato food. You’ll get far more flowers.
Anti-allergy gardens: how to make your garden hay fever free
9
Protect tender plants from slugs Look out for slugs and snails hiding in nooks and crannies. One thing is certain - they’ll be out in force after all those tender young shoots coming up this month. Hunts are best done in early morning and evening when cool damp air brings them into the open. Depending on how much of a problem they are in the garden you can try various control methods. Nematodes (microscopic organisms that predate on slugs and snails) are organic and safe with pets and children but require careful application. Also try non-toxic and eco-friendly slug granules. These make crossing them unpleasant for slugs and snails and offer good protection. They’re made from sepiolite clay, a natural material that is dry and sharp which can be used with edibles. There are also organic pellets available to buy. If, however, you have a really serious problem you may need to resort to old school slug pellets. Protect the growing tips of beans from slug damage. They don’t recover. Push some new beans into the ground as replacements if needed. Try to site pots up and out of reach of slugs who will eat the heads of violas in double quick time.
11
10
Spring is moving into summer and with it comes weeks of misery for hay fever sufferers Tie in sweet peas
Your annual sweet peas should be nicely settled into their new homes for the summer and they will start to grow rapidly now. Tie in any shoots to your supports. For the best quality flowers, remove all the side shoots to create a cordon, as you would with a tomato plant. Watch out for aphids as they love the fleshy growing tips. They’re full of sap and as a result they will quickly colonise them. If you have any early flowers, they might drop some buds. Don’t worry, this is a symptom of cold nights and is the plant’s way of regulating water pressure. They will soon recover as the nights warm up.
June pond care
• Keep an eye on your pond fish to ensure they’re healthy. • Keep the pond clear of algae so the water remains oxygenated and clear. • Remove blanket weed using a rake or cane. Leave it at the edge of the pond for a day or two to allow any wildlife to escape, before adding it to the compost heap. • Check any new pond plants before planting to avoid accidentally introducing pests like snails.
38
Hay fever is one of the most common allergies in the UK, with one in four people suffering from cold-like symptoms such as itchy eyes, a runny nose, congestion, and sneezing. That means millions of people are unable to enjoy a relaxing day in the garden. There are however some things you can do to lower the impact in your own garden.
Avoid wind-pollinated plants/trees Hay fever is caused by an allergic response to allergens such as pollen and dust mites, so the key to making gardens allergy-friendly lies in selecting the right plants and trees. Wind-pollinated plants transfer light particles of pollen that are easily inhaled, whereas insect pollinated plants produce heavier pollen that isn’t as easily airborne. It’s best to avoid planting trees like ash, oak, hazel, horse chestnut, and sycamore, and instead opt for plants with showy flowers like iris, delphinium, lobelia, and geranium. Or, opt for a fruit tree, as apple, cherry, pear, and plum trees are amongst those with the lowest allergens.
Maintain your lawn Grass is the most common cause of hay fever as grass pollen scatters in the wind. The best way to beat the
symptoms is by mowing your lawn regularly once a week to prevent the grass from flowering, as it will produce less pollen. Wetting down grass before gardening and edging your garden area with stones will help to keep allergens at bay, too.
Prevent a build-up of weeds Weeds such as dandelions, creeping thistle and ragwort are a common cause for hay fever symptoms, so it’s best to remove them before they have time to flower. The best way to prevent weeds growing is by mowing, feeding, and watering your lawn regularly, and pulling out the weeds as soon as you see them.
No matter how allergy friendly your garden is, high pollen count days are off limits It’s best to avoid your garden completely on days when the pollen count is extremely high, after all hay fever symptoms are likely to make the minutes miserable. If you must spend time in the garden, be sure to wear a hat (to protect from the heat and stop pollen sticking to your hair) and gloves and when you are finished, change your clothes to reduce the chances of bringing pollen into your house.
Everyone’s invited join our Great British Garden Party! Help raise money for some of the UK’s best-loved nursing and health charities.
© Sussie Bell, Selina Lake
Sign up: ngs.org.uk/gardenparty
1000's of fabulous homegrown roses to choose from, old favorites to new varieties. Visit the nursery, order online www.apuldramroses.co.uk or call 01243 785769 for friendly helpful advice. Apudram Roses, Crouchers Farm, 163 Birdham Road, Chichester, West Sussex PO20 7EQ Hours Monday-Friday 10:00–16:00 Saturday 10:00–16:00 Sunday Closed Facebook “f ” Logo
CMYK / .ai
Facebook “f ” Logo
Everything needed to create, maintain and enjoy a lush, high quality lawn the natural way
CMYK / .ai
01795 411527 • info@plantworksuk.co.uk • rootgrow.co.uk Manufactured under the License granted by the Royal Horticultural Society Registered Charity No. 222879/SC038262
Use code:
OGCG05 For 15% discount
Eco-friendly Perennials
Locally & Handmade Garden Items
Organic Seeds
Organic Flower Bulbs
w w w.org a ni c g a rd e ne r.c o . u k Only good things for your ga r den www.countrygardener.co.uk
39
WATER FEATURE
PONDS NEED OUR CARE AND ATTENTION A record number of garden ponds now grace our gardens after a boom during lockdown but one expert says the problem is making sure they are kept properly. A new survey has revealed that putting in a new garden pond was one of the main themes for gardeners during the Covid lockdown. Gardeners with more time on their hands found that a garden pond is more than just ornamental – it’s key to sustaining wildlife. Garden birds, pollinating insects and other creatures need water to survive after all. Research found that gardener’s prime reason for adding a pond was its aesthic benefits. Then came the wildlife reason. Ponds are fantastic habitats for a wide range of wildlife, including toads, frogs, newts, insects and birds. The number of new ponds has thought to have increased by over 30 percent with more of the reasons for them being added to gardens being that many thought it added value to their property; it could also be a focal point for lighting, and many wanted the option of adding fish into the pond. The conclusion was that there were lots of reasons for adding a pond and fortunately it needn’t be expensive
or difficult. Simple garden ponds can be constructed by the garden pond established. That is only the start of the excavating a hole and lining it with pond liner, which can investment in the time and money a properly kept pond be secured using paving slabs or rocks. It’s even easier needs. It has to be backed up with ongoing skills and if you purchase a preformed pond made from either ability to make sure the pond is kept properly, is clean , fibreglass or plastic. functional and doesn’t quickly become an eyesore. Luckily there are lots of excellent companies an skills sets around Pumps, water features and plants can also be added. to help and advice and from some of the early season But although there was a huge expansion in the number ponds I’ve seen over the past few weeks that help is going of ponds being constructed one pond expert claims that to be needed. the upkeep of the ponds in terms of skills and knowledge needed hasn’t followed on. John Skinner, a pond advisor for the RHS in IDEAL SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR POND PROBLEMS Hampshire said: Water Gardening Direct has been established for over 21 years. The staff have decades The interest in ponds of experience with many having worked for other pond companies. When setting up has been huge and the specialist company the aim was to combine the best products in the industry with encouraging. But its is the keenest price, coupled with excellent advice and service. more than just getting The company has succeeded in retaining these values, with our customers continuously commenting on our helpfulness and knowledge. We can assist with wildlife ponds, fishponds, water blade features, fountains for large lakes and solar HOW TO REMOVE ALGAE FROM YOUR POND powered water features. The cause of algae is one of the real concerns of garden pond owners. Downstream,they offer treatments and spares to enable customer to maintain their water garden in good order. The combination of sunlight, warm water, and nutrients all contribute to the production of algae in a pond. It is important to understand that this combination www.watergardeningdirect.com is what forms the ‘hyper nutrients’ that allows algae to thrive. Another source of Tel: 01778 341199 nutrients is nitrates which are caused by decomposing organic matter such as uneaten fish food. Cure and control - If you have algae in your pond, specialists Envii strongly suggest Viresco will clean and promote health in your pond that you do not pull it out. Doing so will release spores into the pond that will ultimately cause the algae to grow back thicker and stronger than before. The algae Mr Fothergill’s passion is to supply the very best quality gardening products, from seeds must be killed before it is removed. and plants to garden hardware and pond care. With the warmer days on the way algae and blanket weed can soon build up in your pond, turning it green and murky. A treatment Envii Algae Klear Xtra is a liquid treatment that kills algae within two weeks. The of Viresco will clear your water, help to digest organic waste and promote fish health and unique formula targets the algae directly and kills it down to the root to prevent wellbeing. Order now and you’ll save 10 per-cent on Viresco. Whether you’re new to home regrowth. Algae Klear Xtra also prevents the regrowth of algae due to its unique UV gardening or a seasoned expert, Mr Fothergill’s will supply you competitively priced highlight filter. quality products with service levels to match. To place an order, or to request a catalogue call 08453 710 518 or visit mr-fothergills.co.uk
OASE MAKES THE BIG POND DECISIONS EASIER
When adding a pond to your garden take time to decide the best location for your pond. Is the pond getting adequate sunlight? Is the pond covered by a tree that will fill it with leaves? Will it be in a spot where you can enjoy it? Are you hoping to attract local wildlife, or would you like to house fish and want to detract herons? Will you add a simple pre-formed PE pond, or do you want to create your own and use a pond liner?
Have you bought some plants? Ensure success & reduce cost with effective watering
On top of the size and shape of the pond it’s good to consider what else you’ll need. Do you want a stream that feeds the pond, additional fountains? If you want to house fish you’ll need an appropriate sized filter to make sure it’s kept clean. OASE produces all these products and more that can help you create the pond of your dreams. Lighting and even app-controlled products are all available to make looking after your pond as easy as possible. Your local aquatic retailer can help and OASE’s technical team are always on hand if required. OASE wants to ensure building your pond is as easy and stress-free as possible. We want everyone to enjoy water, and our aim is to create products that will fit any space, in any garden – anywhere.
www.oase.com 40
www.leakypipe.co.uk 01622 746495
Country Gardener
May 22_Layout 1 05/04/2022 14:25 Page 1
Can’t keep algae away?
www.watergardeningdirect.com Tel: 01778 341199 s UK’ est g r a l lier of p d sup forme pre onds p
F 72 pree Bro age ava chure ilab le
Create a stunning water feature in your garden with our range of stainless steel water blades, large illuminated fountains or a wide range of solar features.
Waterfall Lights
Water Blades 30, 60 or 90cm wide
Large Range of Water Reservoirs Spectacular Illuminated Fountains 3m tall
Wall Spouts
Get free, expert advice from our team today.
01246 240880 9:00 - 17:00 | Monday - Friday
Solar Neptune Water Feature
Solar Fairy Water Feature
www.envii.co.uk
Solar Frog Water Feature
www.watergardeningdirect.com Tel: 01778 341199 www.countrygardener.co.uk
41
! EE FR
ps tri TS ! ES .95 E T £3 AT th TR or NI w
VIRESCO® AQUA POND CLEAR: RIDS ponds of blanket weed and algae DIGESTS organic waste • ELIMINATES nitrates • REDUCES phosphates • IMPROVES pond water clarity • PROMOTES fish health
A crystal clear pond in a few weeks with just one application! Clear your pond of summer algae and green water SAVE 10% on Viresco® Aqua - for a clean and healthy pond in a few weeks! • • •
Week 1
Week 6
• •
Non-chemical – totally biological Easy to use with a long shelf life Long lasting – one application lasts many months Harmless to fish, plants and wildlife, even if overdosed Full instructions with every pack.
Viresco® – the award winning pond clear, trusted by pond owners for more than 20 years!
Viresco® Aqua uses a combination of micro-organisms that clean water by removing the soluble nutrients on which algae feeds and digesting the organic matter that makes your pond cloudy. This helps to improve the health of fish by increasing their food uptake and reducing disease. Viresco® is 100% organic and completely harmless to birds, fish, frogs, newts, pets, plants, insects and humans. It’s so safe it can even be used in freshwater aquaria to keep the glass clean!
Best Buy ‘Algae Control’ listing for the last 8 years running!
“I regulariy use Viresco® Aqua. Absolute value for money and does what they say it will and more.” Mr K Shenton
SAVE
10 today!
%
A cleaner pond and healthier fish in a few weeks
Order today online at: www.mr-fothergills.co.uk/F22AVRCG1 Or phone 0845 371 0518 Lines are currently open 8am-6pm weekdays, 9am-5pm weekends. *Calls cost 3p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge
Please post to: Mr Fothergill’s, (F22AVRCG1),
Unit 8, St Leger Drive, Newmarket Business Park, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 7DT
Your Guarantee of Satisfaction If your purchase fails to give satisfaction we will replace or refund without question.
We’d like to continue sending you catalogues by post. If you would prefer not to receive them, please tick this box .
Name (Mr/Mrs/Ms/Miss) Delivery Address Postcode Email Address If you would prefer not to receive news of special offers or promotions tick this box We will only share your email address with our delivery partners.
Telephone (In case we or our delivery partners need to contact you about your order).
I enclose my cheque made payable to Mr Fothergill’s. Or debit my VISA Mastercard Card number:
Valid from:
Expiry date:
3 digit security code: (last 3 numbers on signature strip)
Name on Card Signature
Date
SAVE 10% on Viresco® Aqua today! Code
Description
Price
47332
2.5g Viresco® Aqua Small Pond Pack (up to 6,500 litres)
£9.95 £8.96
44751
5g Viresco® Aqua Medium Pond Pack (up to 12,500 litres)
£13.95 £12.56
44752
10g Viresco® Aqua Large Pond Pack (up to 25,000 litres)
£20.90 £18.81
48477
25g Viresco® Aqua Extra Large Pond Pack (up to 70,000 litres)
£39.75 £35.78
49865
50g Viresco® Aqua XXL Pond Pack (up to 140,000 litres)
£74.50 £67.05
49867
100g Viresco® Aqua XXXL Pond Pack (up to 280,000 litres)
£144.00 £129.60
FREE Nitrate Test Kit – included with all Viresco® Aqua orders
Code F22AVRCG1 Offer subject to availability and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer from Mr Fothergill’s. See website for terms and conditions. Credit/debit cards charged at time of ordering. We think you’d enjoy some of the latest products and offers by post from other trusted retailers and organisations. If you would prefer not to receive these by post, please tick this box . Details of these organisations can be found in our privacy statement at www.mr-fothergills.co.uk/privacy-policy
Qty
FREE
Total
1
Postage & Packing
FREE £1.99
TOTAL AMOUNT * Remember to quote your promotional code F22AVRCG1 at the checkout to receive your 10% Viresco® discount.
WATER FEATURE
And while we are on the subject of water in the garden...
THE DOS AND DON’TS OF WATERING PLANTS All plants need water to reach their full potential. It is a basic gardening point, but poor watering strategy is a real problem with many gardeners What you might not know is that incorrect watering techniques can put plants at risk for disease and even kill them. Whether you want to cultivate outdoor perennials or a new houseplant, there are some things which are essential to know.
1. Water in the morning The best time to water outdoor flowers and vegetables is before the heat of the day when the soil is cool and the water has the best chance of seeping down to the roots of the plants before evaporating.
2. Water plants at soil level Directing water at the base of your plants delivers the hydration right where it’s needed: the roots.
3. Never use broadcast sprinklers
Soil in container gardens and flowerpots dries out more quickly than soil in a garden plot or flower bed. The smaller the container, the more frequently you need to water.
5. Trees need water, too Newly planted trees and shrubs should be thoroughly soaked with water two or three times per week for the first month. 6. Don’t water container plants with a jet-type spray nozzle Pressurized nozzles are fine for washing off driveways and sidewalks, but the spray that they deliver can damage tender foliage and blossoms. It can also disturb the soil around the roots of a container plant.
7. Don’t rely on rain Rain isn’t always sufficient at supplying enough water for plants to thrive, so don’t count on it to keep plants healthy.
In addition to soaking the plant’s leaves, which can increase the risk of a fungal disease, broadcast sprinklers are inefficient.
4. Water outdoor container plants at least once per day
The Perfect Pond OASE COMPLETE POND SOLUTIONS Adding a pond to your garden has never been easier with OASE’s complete pond solutions. Quite simply, we know water. Once you have decided on pond size and pond location we can provide all the items you need to bring that idea to life. Why a pond? Ponds bring much needed relaxation and calm to a garden. The stillness of water can soothe the mind, and your pond will become a place for meditation and relaxation. Furthermore, a pond invites a whole new ecosystem of plants and animals to your garden. A pond becomes a new focal point for visiting family and guests, and is a chance for all to benefit from the beauty of water. OASE’s technical knowledge and expertise gives you peace of mind when adding water to your garden. You should not be restricted by space or know-how. From a small pre-formed pond for local wildlife to large ponds for fish OASE products can help you.
Our high quality, German-engineered complete pond solutions will give any garden a functional and attractive pond with minimal stress. We can provide liner, pumps, filtration, lighting and ways to make your pond thrive - regardless of size. Visit your local distributor for expert advice today.
www.oase.com CG_ISSUE2_PONDARTICLE.indd 1
www.countrygardener.co.uk
04/05/2022 16:31:37
43
MAKERS OF FINE BEEKEEPING APPAREL hello@bjsherriff.com | +44 (0)1872 863304 www.bjsherriff.com OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
ERHILL HERB T S EA & WILLOW S
www.hintonsnursery.co.uk Great range of nursery grown plants from ALPINES to TREES, SHRUBS to AQUATICS, PERENNIAL to FRUIT TREES and BUSHES ...most grown on the nursery 150 different VEGETABLE PLANTS
Award winning HANGING BASKETS and CONTAINERS
Delivery service available
New independent plant nursery opening summer 2022 at Painswick Rococo Garden
✔ Willow Growers ✔ Wildlife Friendly Plants ✔ Herbs & Edibles
Local deliveries and click and collect available now through our online shop.
Starcross Devon
www.exedranursery.co.uk
www.reallyusefulplants.co.uk
Huge range of PATIO and SUMMER BEDDING PLANTS
National Garden Gift Vouchers
Coventry Road, Guy's Cliffe, Warwick CV34 5FJ 01926 492273 info@hintonsnursery.co.uk Hintons is a not for profit organisation
Reach a passionate and affluent audience of gardening enthusiasts BRITISH AFFILIATED GURKHA NURSES OFFERING SPECIALIST CARE FOR YOUR LOVED ONES Dedicated one to one LIVE-IN care from our team of Nepalese nurses. Tel: 01252 282110 Email: care@poseidon-gp.com Website: www.poseidoncare.co.uk
44
Over 100,000 copies distributed every month If you would like to advertise your business or service in our Cotswolds magazine, please contact
Pygmy Pinetum NURSERY & GARDENS Come and enjoy our lovely garden while shopping in safety, taking your pick from the glorious selection of plants we have to offer.
JUNE is the month for ROSES and we have a stunning range to choose from. Our CLEMATIS are lush with buds and flowers. We have many equally beautiful CLIMBERS. We have an array of SHRUBS and PERENNIALS in a range of glorious colours, many of which can be seen in the garden.
corina@countrygardener.co.uk Tel: 01823 410098 Country Gardener
From the Handkerchief Tree to apple trees,we have TREES for all tastes and types of garden. Take your pick from our gorgeous BEDDING PLANTS. Bring in your empties for our friendly, knowledgeable staff to fill. Come to us for plant feeds and compost: everything you need to keep your garden blooming.
Cannop Crossroads, Nr Speech House, Royal Forest of Dean, Glos. Tel: 01594 833398
www.pygmypinetum.co.uk
GARDEN VISITS
GARDENS TO VISIT
in June
OLD DOWN MANOR GARDENS
compiled by Vivienne Lewis
Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol BS32 4PG
June gardens – full of roses, but much else besides. Get out to see some amazing, colourful gardens, in the counties covered by Country Gardener and help raise much needed funds for nursing and caring charities. We advise checking wherever possible before starting out on a journey as circumstances can force cancellations in private gardens. www.ngs.org.uk
A new opening for the National Garden Scheme on Wednesday 15th June has a Victorian walled kitchen and cut flower garden, sumptuous herbaceous borders, a formal rose garden with many old English roses framed by yew hedges, rolling lawns and newly restructured rockery gardens with views across the Severn Valley, and pathways through woodland or meadows to a tranquil lake. Open from 10am4pm on 15th June, admission £5, children free. For other opening times contact on 03447769380 or email Info@olddownestate.co.uk
HILLSIDE
MILL HOUSE
35 Westbury Hill, Westburyon-Trym, Bristol BS9 3AG
Whitehall, Hemyock, Cullompton, Devon EX15 3UQ
A hidden Grade II listed period gem dating to 1715 with large and established formal walled gardens and family gardens in ½ acre, with magnificent trees some around 500 years old, pond and kitchen herb garden, rockery, rose and cutting gardens, orchard and seasonal interest borders, a wildflower meadow, established kitchen garden and fruit bushes. Open for the NGS on Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th June, 11am4pm. Admission £5, children free.
A new opening for the NGS, owned by artist Vanessa Worrall whose studio will also be open, a delightful cottage garden around the front of the house with beds full of perennials; the back garden has a perennial border with an orchard of apple and pear trees in a meadow of grasses, oxeye daisies, wildflowers and camassias. The Mill leat is bordered with hydrangeas, specimen trees and rhododendrons. Open for the NGS on Sunday 12th, Monday 13th and Tuesday 14th June, 10am-4pm each day, admission £6, children free.
CARRAWAY BARN Carraway Lane, Marnhull, Sturminster Newton, Dorset DT10 1NJ
WEST CLYST BARNYARD GARDENS West Clyst, Exeter, Devon EX1 3TR Another new opening for the NGS, two gardens that have been planted in farmland around a converted barnyard of a medieval farm, with a wildflower meadow, wildlife ponds, bog garden, David Austin roses, magnolias and many trees and shrubs. Open for the NGS on Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th June, 1pm-5pm each day. Combined admission £5, children free.
OUR KEY TO FACILITIES ON OFFER AT THE GARDENS:
A new opening for the NGS, a two-acre garden around a 19th former barn, with a natural swimming pond, large shrub border, waterfall and wildflower area (with beehives), shady woodland walks, a white border of hydrangeas, hostas and ferns leading to a walled garden, with roses, peonies, alliums, geraniums and topiary, encircling a water lily pond. Open for the NGS on Sunday 12th June, Thursday 16th June and Sunday 19th June, 2pm-5pm each day. Admission £6, children free, booking essential.
Refreshments available
Plants usually for sale
Wheelchair access to much of garden
Partial wheelchair access
Unsuitable for wheelchairs
Dogs on short leads
Visitors welcome by arrangement
Coaches welcome consult owners
Accommodation at this venue
Picnics welcome
www.countrygardener.co.uk
45
CHISENBURY PRIORY East Chisenbury, Wiltshire SN9 6AQ A medieval priory with later additions (not open) in a fiveacre garden on chalk, with fine trees within clump and flint walls, herbaceous borders, shrubs, roses, moisture loving plants along a mill leat, carp pond, orchard and wild garden, and many unusual plants. Open for the NGS on Sunday 12th June, 2pm-5.30pm. Admission £5, children free.
ABBOTSFIELD Bennetts Lane, Burley, Ringwood, Hampshire BH24 4AT Accessible paths lead past numerous beds, containing shrubs and herbaceous perennials of a variety of leaf form and texture and a fish pond. Then through trees to a summerhouse, a tea shelter in wet weather. The circular route continues to the kitchen garden with raised beds. Open for the NGS on Wednesday 1st June, 10.30am-4.30pm. Admission £3.50, children free. Parking at Mill Lawn car park, 400m away.
GOLD HILL Hindon Lane, Tisbury, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP3 6PZ Overlooking the Fonthill Brook the house and garden, designed together and are Arts & Crafts inspired, were created on a 1.2 acre derelict builder’s yard and field between 2015 and 2017. There’s a formal garden with mixed shrub and perennial planting, a sunken garden, rose garden, fruit trees, white walled garden with pond, fountain and parterre beds. Open for the NGS on Sunday 12th June, 2pm-5pm. Admission £6, children free.
MANOR LODGE Brook Lane, Botley, Southampton, Hampshire SO30 2ER Close to Manor Farm Country Park, this mid-Victorian house (not open), is set in over 1½ acres, the garden of an enthusiastic plantswoman, a garden in evolution with established areas and new projects, a mixture of informal and formal planting, woodland and wildflower meadow areas, large established and new specimen trees, common and exotic perennials and fruit cages. Open for the NGS on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th June, 2pm-5pm. Admission £4, children free.
SEARLES LANE GARDENS Searles Lane, Hook, Hampshire RG27 9EQ After 2021’s opening, the gardens have some additions: the half acre cottage style garden at Maple Cottage has herbaceous borders, vegetable plots and a tiny, but active wildlife pond surrounded by hostas, astilbe, sarracenia. The neighbouring oneacre contemporary garden at Cherry Tree Barn has a wide range of plants and trees, grasses, perennials, drifts of wildflowers, terracing, decking, pathways, a Japanese influenced Yatsuhashi bridge, a little Japanese style garden, and a small collection of contemporary stone sculptures. Open for the NGS on Friday 24th, Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th June, 2pm-5pm each day. Admission £6.50, children free.
46
Country Gardener
BATCOMBE HOUSE Gold Hill, Batcombe, Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 6HF Plantswoman’s and designer’s garden of two parts – one a riot of colour through kitchen terraces, potager leading to a wildflower orchard; the other a calm contemporary amphitheatre with large herbaceous borders and interesting trees and shrubs. Open for the NGS on Saturday 18th June, 2pm6pm. Admission £7, children free.
GARDEN VISITS
WESTAWAY COTHAY MANOR
Stockwell Lane, Cleeve Hill, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL52 3PU
Greenham, near Wellington, Somerset TA21 0JR The romantic gardens will open for St Margaret’s Hospice on Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th June, 2pm-5pm each day (last admission 4.30pm). There are 12 acres of magical gardens surrounding the medieval manor, with many garden rooms set off by a 200-yard yew walk. Admission £5. Parking available – use GREENHAM for Satnav, not Cothay. www.st-margaret’s-hospice.org.uk
Another new opening for the NGS, this hillside 1½ acre garden on the Cotswold escarpment has spectacular views across the Severn Vale, displaying interesting solutions to the challenges of gardening on a gradient. Mixed shrub and herbaceous borders, bog garden, orchard, small arboretum and several wildflower areas, extensive terracing with grass banks. Open for the NGS on Sunday 26th and Wednesday 29th June, 1pm-5pm both days. Admission £5, children free.
LANGFORD DOWNS FARM
THE OLD RECTORY
Langford, Lechlade, Oxfordshire GL7 3QL Another new opening for the NGS, this Cotswold house was built in 2009 and its garden created from blank canvas, with mixed tree, shrub and herbaceous borders, traditional hedges comprising arches and windows, Cotswold pond, walnut walk, spiral and mature vegetable garden, bug hotels and hedgehog piles. Find ‘Mrs Bennet’s Walk’. Open for the NGS on Wednesday 29th June, 2pm-6pm. Admission £7, children free.
Awliscombe, Honiton Devon EX13 4PJ Open for Hospiscare on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th June, 12pm5pm each day. There’s a sensory garden within an older, mature garden, with trees, an orchard and a herb garden; follow a fairy glade stream to a young sustainable agroforest (edible woodland) and see an experimental way of growing food; polytunnel, sculptures, plant stall, cake stall. Admission by donation. www.hospiscare.co.uk
OLD DOWN HOUSE Horton, Wimborne, Dorset BH21 7HL
OAK HOUSE Greenway Lane, Gretton, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 5ER A new opening for the NGS, this one-acre secret garden is divided into rooms and has been gradually developed over the last 30 years, with some quirky features and many places to sit and enjoy the scent of honeysuckle, philadelphus and over 50 varieties of roses; wildflower meadow, gazebo and summerhouse, formal lily pond and small wildlife pond. Open for the NGS on Wednesday 15th and Saturday 18th June, 11am-5pm. Admission £5, children free.
www.countrygardener.co.uk
Nestled down a farm track, this ¾ acre garden on chalk surrounds an 18th century farmhouse with stunning views over Horton Tower and farmland; a cottage garden style with formal elements, climbing roses and wisteria clothe the pergola and house walls; mainly walled potager, chickens. Open for the NGS on Wednesday 8th, Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th June, 2pm5pm each day. Admission £4, children free.
47
Japanese wisteria, with elongated and narrow flower clusters
Wisteria not blooming? It could be due to over-feeding.
WISTERIA DELIGHTS Former RHS plant researcher Mark Hetherington is now retired and living in Somerset where he continues to share his knowledge on all things wisteria. Here he answers some of the most common questions about the popular shrub Why is my wisteria not blooming? There are quite a few reasons why a wisteria doesn’t bloom, but the most common is excess nitrogen caused by over-feeding. Too much fertiliser is almost certainly to blame if the wisteria’s foliage is lush and green, but no blooms are present. If you think the plant has been over fertilised, you can neutralise the nitrogen in the soil by adding a fertiliser high in phosphorus and potash. Timing of fertilisation may also be a factor, as wisteria should be fed in autumn. Other possible reasons for a lack of blooms may be inadequate sunlight, lack of proper pruning or poorly drained soil. Chinese wisteria
What is the difference between Chinese wisteria and Japanese wisteria?
These are two different species belonging to the same genus. In terms of flowering, Japanese wisteria (Wisteria floribunda) bears elongated and narrow flower clusters (40cm to 1.50m in length) unlike Chinese wisteria (Wisteria sinensis) whose flower clusters are heavier, stockier (up to 40cm in length). The first blooms in April, the flowers develop successively from the base to the end of the cluster while the second blooms in May, and the flowers all bloom at the same time on the cluster. This flowering is often repeated in summer. Another clue, rather curious this one: the direction of winding of the tendrils. From left to right for Japanese wisteria and from right to left for Chinese wisteria.
What is the lifespan of a wisteria? The oldest known wisteria is a real myth in Japan. It is Wisteria floribunda ‘Domino’ which is in Ashikaga Park. This spectacular wisteria during its flowering is 150 years old! We all know old plants planted in the days of the grandfather! In general, a wisteria can live easily 30 to 50 years, the Japanese variety subject being of exceptional longevity.
When to plant wisteria? Wisteria is hardy up to -20°C. Plant it preferably in the autumn, this will give you a better chance of recovery and the plant will have time to build up a good root system before the summer heat. A spring planting is quite possible, however, watering should be very regular in summer to ensure recovery.
Is the root system on wisteria invasive? Wisteria is spectacularly beautiful, but certain types, including Chinese wisteria and Japanese wisteria, are invasive plants that can choke out native vegetation. This occurs
48
because the roots travel swiftly and unwanted plants may appear a considerable distance from the main shrub, twining around trees or anything else that lies in their path. These plants should be avoided if they are considered invasive in your area.
Can I transplant wisteria? It is possible but timing is everything. If you move wisteria plants, it’s better to transplant when young as a mature plant may not survive the relocation. Ideally, the vine should be pruned and the roots trimmed the autumn before transplantation in early spring. Tie up loose branches on moving day, then dig the wisteria, cutting a wide swathe around the shrub to minimize root damage. Pry the plant from the ground with a sturdy shovel, then slide a large piece of cardboard or burlap under the root ball. Plant the shrub in a pre-dug hole in soil that has been added to compost or manure.
What botanical genus does wisteria belong to? Wisteria is one of the genus Wisteria which has about ten deciduous climbing species, all part of the Leguminous family. It exists two types of commonly cultivated wisteria: Japanese wisteria (Wisteria floribunda) and Chinese wisteria (Wisteria sinensis). Whether from Japan or China, wisteria comes in multiple cultivars, with white, pink, lilac, mauve or bluish flowers. In the same family, but not in the same genre, Milletia reticulata, summer wisteria, has smaller clusters of purple to dark lilac flowers throughout the summer. Among the many cultivars, some offer long clusters of flowers like ‘Stained Dragon‘, a very award-winning variety with flower clusters up to 1.50m in length! Others offer a colour that differs from the usual lavender blue. This is the case of Alba, with white flowers, of ‘Lipstick’ and ‘Rosea’ pale pink, or ‘Black Dragon’ dark purple. This variety is also available in very double flowers under the name ‘Double Black Dragon’. If you like very fragrant blooms and large opulent clusters, choose a Chinese wisteria, if you prefer more discretion in terms of scents and elegance in all circumstances, opt for a Japanese wisteria.
Can I grow wisteria in a pot? It is possible to plant a wisteria in a pot, however, keep in mind that it will be much less beautiful and flowering than in the ground. On a terrace this type of planting can find its application to adorn an arbour for example. Choose a large pot or large container and pour a layer of clay balls at the bottom. If you have non-calcareous garden soil you can use it or a mixture of heather soil and classic soil will do. Plant in the centre of the container and fill in the vacant gaps. Tamp around the stem.
Country Gardener
Thrifty gardening for the new season
Cotswolds gardens open up for visitors
Early spring garden the events throughout Cotswolds to enjoy
WIN a pair of the best gardening gloves events The best April garden throughout Devon
Cotswolds ISSUE NO 148 MARCH
k
www.countrygardener.co.u
Bee friendly planting wildlife heaven
for
Grow vegetables without digging visit Bumper gardens to throughout Dorset
The influence of Edwin Lutyens
Making the most of rhubarb
Dev on
2019 FREE k www.countrygardener.co.u
ISSUE NO 176 APRIL
Dorset
2019 FREE k www.countrygardener.co.u
ISSUE NO 171 MAY
2019 FREE
It’s tulip
time
IS YOUR DISPLAY SPECTACULAR THIS SPRING?
lias Magnorea dy
get FOR SPRING!
PLUS: Growing blueberries;
Last call on winter pruning;
AT THE GARDEN
rday: Week - Tuesday-Satu Open Six Days a - 4.30pm Sunday: 10.30am
9am - 5pm
On A423 Southam
Love Country Gardener
h, Banbury OX17
Road, Nr. Farnboroug
Mondays Open Bank Holiday ncentre.co.uk www.farnboroughgarde
Love your garden?
Onion sets; Cooking from
Prepare for Spring
an early spring garden
S: PLU CENTRE
LOVERS GARDEN
1EL. Tel: 01295 690479
Hot stuffy!for
Get your garden read the heat of summer
; springtime sauerkraut ; hawthorn hedges, events galore perennials Great gardens to visit ; Alluring alliums; Garden with cats in mind, staking peas; Hotbed gardening colourful carrots, gardens PLUS: Grow perfect • ESTABLISHED 28 YEARS Carports, Glass & Quality Verandas, • HIGH QUALITY DESIGN Awnings WHITE of SERVING DORSET, Rooms, Canopies and or N LANDSCAPE & WILTSHIRE AMPTO brochure HAMPSHIRE FREE a WITCH for Phone today • NO CONTRACTORS no obligation quote IN ALL AREAS TRADE PARTNERS REQUIREDathercanopies.co.uk 01647 432321 www.allwe
o.uk
Tel: 07966 258267
gardens.c / 01258 840082 www.wow
Our readers say*... “I can’t wait to pick up my copy every month.“ “I doubt if there’s a better gardening magazine.” “A lovely read, well written and I love how local it is.” Country Gardener produces editions covering THE COTSWOLDS, DEVON, DORSET, HAMPSHIRE and SOMERSET Available at over 650 LOCATIONS throughout our circulation area. To find your local pick up point go to
www.countrygardener.co.uk * 2014 Readership Survey
www.countrygardener.co.uk
49
1. Spreading by creeping roots
Bindweed
The worst weeds in your garden Weeds come in all shapes and sizes with some being far less welcome than others, but which are the worst for your garden and how do you get rid of them? There’s no doubt about it -weeds are a menace and the worst weeds are so much more of a menace that gardeners really need a plan on how to get rid of them. What’s the point of spending money and involving yourself in hard work if flowers, shrubs and vegetables get smothered by weeds and take away all the pleasure of growing and gardening? It may be a case of easier said than done but there is one word which is the key to all this – vigilance. If you are watchful and never ever drop your guard, then you have a chance. Bindweed is an especially clear example of the need to get to it quickly. It has been calculated that for every one foot of twining bindweed stem above ground there’s the same amount of the invasive root beneath the surface. So, keep pulling away the top growth and taking out as much of the root as you can. It is often a daily job but well worth it to prevent the damage that bindweed can cause. There should be two clear rules in the ongoing battle against weeds. • Don’t allow the weeds that spread by seed to make any seed. • Don’t allow weeds that spread at the root to make any leafy growth to fuel more root growth. Some gardeners will say that patches of the garden should be left with weeds for the benefit of caterpillars, ants, bees, and other pollinators. However, another view is that the world is full of weeds and if any true gardener wants to help pollinators a much better bet is just to choose plants and flowers which do a better job and look far more attractive. 50
Bindweed - Vigorous twining top growth with admittedly pretty trumpet flowers, bindweed surges into growth from constantly spreading roots and smothers shrubs and perennials alike. Dig down much deeper than you think to get rid of the roots. Couch grass - Couch grass has strong resistant roots which can be very difficult to separate from soil. They cling on to soil and it is often impossible to take out the whole root of the weed. Digging out the roots with a strong fork is the only practical option , but all roots must be removed. Horsetail - Roots can be up to six Couch grass feet deep and this weed also called marestail from the look of its fine foliage is one of the most difficult to eradicate. Nettles - Nettles are invasive, smothering and their stinging foliage can cause real pain to toddlers and painful rash to others. It is one of the worst totally Horsetail eradicate from a garden. Ground elder - A determined and hated spreader and one which can arrive under the fence from next door. Roots are shallow so can be easy to remove but fresh plants grow from the tiniest fragments. Japanese knotweed - An infamous weed which is one of the fastest Nettles growing in the whole world of horticulture. If you have it in your garden and you want to sell your house it may need to be removed by a licensed contractor which is expensive and time consuming.
2. Seed sowing weeds Annual meadow grass - This small Ground elder annual grass often spreads into borders from poorly maintained lawns. Seeds are often distributed from grass cuttings. Dandelion - Common and well known but prolific in its windblown seeds. Controlling it is hard work but effective control comes from a sharp knife which slice off Japanese knotweed the roots. Shepherds purse - Like bittercress in making a neat rosette with upright flower stems carrying a neat rosette. It produces colourful white flowers but don’t be fooled, this is the second most common weed on earth and one plant can send out 4,500 seeds. Bittercress - A common weed reaching a foot in height and one plant can fling its seeds more than 30 inches when the pod splits. It is known to arrive in gardens by hitchhiking on bought-in plants.
Non-chemical weeds treatments Carpet - Old carpet can smother weeds on paths between vegetables or cut flower beds – old stair carpet is the right width. Hand weeding - This is the hardest work method with the challenge of getting on your hands and knees with a hand fork, a sharp knife, a small hoe and a kneeler to save damage to your knees. The other advantage is that the battle with the weeds is a close combat one and you can see the immediate results. Mulch - Use weed-free mulch to smother weeds in beds and borders. It’s effective and clearly less hard work in the long run. Never use grass cuttings however as they are always full of grass seeds, and you will be making the problem worse. Hoeing - Wherever you have plants, vegetables, or shrubs in rows then hoeing is ideal. Make sure the hoe is as sharp as you can make it to slice the weeds effectively.
Country Gardener
Ghost orchid (Epipogium aphyllum)
Wild orchid
superstars Wild flower expert Sam Park sings the praises of the often rare wildlife orchids which can often only be found on nature reserves in Britain Orchids are the superstars of the wildflower world. They can be a fantastic find when out for a walk. If you get the chance this summer search for the masters of mimicry cleverly fooling their pollinators, including the furry-flowered bee orchid, or its more understated cousin, the fly orchid. There are around 52 different species of wild orchid in Britain. Many of these species are incredibly rare and can often only be found on nature reserves that have special protection for the orchids. Orchids are among the most beautiful of the wildflower species in the UK. Sample the perfume of a fragrant orchid, or the stink of a lizard orchid. Deep in the woods, look for the bizarre bird’snest orchid growing in leaf litter; a parasite that steals its nutrients from the roots of trees, and has dispensed with the green chlorophyll that other plants use to make their food in favour of a creamy-brown colour all over.
Here are some of my favourites: Ghost orchid (Epipogium aphyllum) One of the rarest wild orchids there is. It can spend most of its time underground and it can have up to 10-year gaps between flowering. It can be described by its creamy-white flowers where the lip has some small pink spots. It has no leaves and is dependent upon the fungi in the soil for its survival.
up to 60cm tall and the stems are covered in hairs. This species has been given special protection when specimens of the species are found.
Early spider orchid (Ophrys sphegodes) An early arrival every summer. It can grow up to 20cm in the UK but due to its preferred Mediterranean climate, it can grow taller in warmer conditions. Each specimen can carry between 2-18 flowers. Each flower has greenyellow petals and the lip is a dark red-brown. This species tends to grow in scrub ground but also along woodland hedges.
Green-winged orchid (Anacamptis morio) This species is more common in the south west and flowers in May and June. It has distinctive purple or pink flowers which have parallel green veins on the hood. These veins are not found on other similar looking orchids like the early purple orchid, which is more common.
Lady’s slipper (Cypripedium calceolus)
Lady orchid (Orchis purpurea)
This is the one you might see more often than any other in botanical drawings. This species of orchid is famous for being the most widely illustrated species of all flowering plants. It’s easy to see why as the flower petals are a maroon colour that can often be spiralled and the sac of the orchid is bright yellow with some spots of red. It can grow
This orchid is quite rare to the UK but is seen in the Cotswolds. It can grow up to 80cm tall. The flower spike can contain anything up to 200 individual flowers which have dark red upper petals forming a hood over the white and dark red lip. Given its size and vivid colours it is a truly stunning orchid.
White helleborine (Cephalanthera damasonium) These plants are a slow grower, taking at least eight years to develop from seed and then the flowering can occur two or three years after that. However, the good news is that it produces a beautiful white flower that does not open fully so the yellow lip is often not seen. It can grow up to 60cm in height and can have up to 16 flowers on each stem. It is commonly found in the south west but is in decline due to a loss of habitat. www.countrygardener.co.uk
Where might you go looking for wild orchids? This isn’t meant to be a definitive list but one I have developed over the years and I admit it is a bit of a personal list. • Berkshire, Greenham and Crookham Commons • Buckinghamshire, Aston Clinton Ragpits • Cornwall, Chyverton • Devon, Dunsdon • Dorset, Fontmell Down • Gloucestershire, Elliott (Swifts Hill) • Hampshire, Noar Hill • Herefordshire, Stockings Meadow • Oxfordshire, Hartslock (renowned for its monkey orchids - found in only three places in the country!), Warburg Nature Reserve • Surrey, Howell Hill • Wiltshire, Lower Moor Farm (including Clattinger Farm) • Wiltshire, Morgan’s Hill
WHAT TO LOOK FOR The key to finding orchids is to do your research beforehand: target the right habitats at the right times of year. Start with your local Wildlife Trust, who do so much good work in this area. On chalk grassland, look for the dense pink flower spikes of pyramidal orchids and the taller, cylindrical spikes of fragrant orchid, which smell sweetly, especially in the evenings. Less ‘fragrant’ and more ‘smelly’ is the lizard orchid. A rarity found at just a few sites this giant among orchids has a spike of gorgeously twisty, spiral-lipped ‘lizard’ flowers, and smells strongly of goats. Be very careful where you tread: as well as the obvious flower spikes there will be plenty of non-flowering leaf rosettes which you should avoid trampling. 51
CLASSIFIED ACCOMMODATION
Churchwood Valley
ACCOMMODATION WITH BEAUTIFUL GARDENS
CARDS & PRINTS A range of over 200 greetings cards and prints from the flower paintings of
Secluded cosy cabins & lodges in wooded valley running down to Wembury Bay & SW Coastal Path
ANNECOTTERILL
We sell to both individuals and trade. No order too small. Contact us for your free catalogue.
Tel. 01297 553100 info@millhousefineart.com
www.millhousefineart.com
Penrice Castle Gower
16 holiday cottages on an 18th century Estate on the Gower Peninsula with beautiful Grade I listed historic park and gardens.
FRUIT/VEG CAGES
10% OFF FRUIT & VEGETABLE CAGES AND NETTING
Tel: 01792 391212 www.penricecastle.co.uk
BUY ONLINE AT www.wmjames.co.uk QUOTE CGSW10
Carmarthen Bay South Wales Seafront chalet situated on estuary. Sleeps up to 6. Seaview. Well Behaved Dogs Welcome. Free WIFI. Open from 1st March - 31st Dec. For Brochure
POLYTUNNELS FROM £454 AVAILABLE TO VIEW BY APPOINTMENT
01363 84948 info@ferrymanpolytunnels.co.uk
www.ferrymanpolytunnels.co.uk SEED SUPPLIERS
MANUFACTURED IN THE UK BY
GARDEN BUILDINGS
Tel: 01269 862191 GLORIOUS NORTH DEVON. Only 9 cosy caravans on peaceful farm. Wonderful walks in woods & meadows. Easy reach sea, moors & lovely days out. £125-395pw. Discount couples. Nice pets welcome. 01769 540366 www.snapdown.co.uk CORNWALL, NEAR ST JUST. Chalet open all year, sleeps 2/4. Nearby gardens, coast, golfing. Prices from £350pw. 01736 788718 BOSWORLAS NEAR SENNEN/ST JUST, CORNWALL. Cosy Cottage, rural views, Sleeps 2-4 01736 788709 www.bosworlas.co.uk NEAR WESTON-SUPER-MARE. Holiday bungalow sleeps 2+2 from £200pw. Phone for brochure 01934 820351.
POLYTUNNELS
Mill House Fine Art Publishing, Bellflower Gallery, Market Place, Colyton, Devon EX24 6JS
Plymouth, Dartmoor & lovely South Devon Villages & Towns in easy reach. Pets Welcome. Forest School. Tel: 01752 862382
www.churchwoodvalley.com
PERSONAL POSTAL FRIENDSHIP CLUB. Friends, pen pals, perhaps romance. UK-wide. No internet needed. Call for details: 01633 526523.
Request NEW & FREE 2022 catalogue on 01376 570 000 or www.kingsseeds.com
Near Stratford-upon-Avon Lovely self-catering cottage in peaceful location: large garden. Sleeps 2. Perfect for famous gardens, NT properties & Cotswolds.
Tel: 01789 740360 www.romanacres.com NORTH DEVON NEAR CLOVELLY. 3 delightful cottages situated in 12 acres of idyllic countryside. Sleeps 2-4. 1 Wheelchair friendly. Prices from £190p.w. Brochure: 01237 431324 www.foxwoodlodge.co.uk
SPECIALIST GARDEN PRODUCTS
CustomTimberBuildings.co.uk Log cabins Looking for a greenhouse? www.greenhouseinstallation.com Tel: 07971 251261
GARDEN PLANTS/ACCESSORIES
THE GARDENER’S BLACKSMITH
BED & BREAKFAST
jonne@jonne.co.uk 07770 720 373
Stables
01935 891195 Garages
Garden Offices
Ex-display buildings for sale | Anything to order
SPECIALIST NURSERIES & PLANTS
Artist blacksmith based near Axminster designing and manufacturing garden plant supports, structures, garden art and fine art bronzes.
ACCOMMODATION HOLIDAY COTTAGES
Free Guide & Catalogue on request
Commissions welcomed.
www.thegardenersblacksmith.co.uk
SANDWAYS
HOLIDAY COTTAGE SIDMOUTH, DEVON Holiday bungalow situated at Stoneleigh Holiday Park, overlooking the Donkey Sanctuary. Ideal for walkers, nature lovers and families. Available to rent from April to October. Sleeps 4.
jandtmercer@gmail.com www.sandwaysholidaycottage.co.uk 07842 514296
WYE VALLEY/FOREST OF DEAN. Fully equipped 4-star single storey cottage. Two bedrooms both en-suite. Central heating/bedlinen provided. Rural retreat with shops/pubs one mile. Short breaks available. Warm welcome. Tel: 01594 833259 www.cowshedcottage.co.uk
52
GARDEN SERVICES
Gloucestershire Quality Bungalow B&B Ensuites, rural, large garden, paddocks, sheep and fruit. Ideal Cotswolds, Malvern’s, Forest of Dean, cycle storage, ample parking, Wi-Fi £40 p.p.p.n.
We stock up to 200 varieties throughout the year
Contact Gary: 01684 770 733 or 07500 600 205 Gary@cranesbillnursery.com www.cranesbillnursery.com
DORSET WATER LILY COMPANY
Tel: 01452 840224 sheila.barnfield1960@gmail.com HOME FARM B&B IN BEAUTIFUL COTSWOLD VILLAGE nr Chipping Campden. Close Hidcote and Kiftsgate - phone 01386 593309 www.homefarmebrington.co.uk, info@homefarmebrington.co.uk
Discover the Diversity of Hardy Geraniums!
The Uk’s largest selection of established pot grown water lilies for public and landscape supply.
Yenstone Walling Dry Stone Walling and Landscaping Patrick Houchen - DSWA member
Tel: 01963 371123 www.yenstonewalling.co.uk
Country Gardener
Speciality hardy marginals and moisture loving bogside.
Catalogue available or visit us MON/ FRI or SAT 9 - 4pm, Yeovil Road, Halstock BA22 9RR
Consultation/Design & Landscape Service Tel: 01935 891668
www.dorsetwaterlily.co.uk
SUBSCRIPTIONS
CLASSIFIED
SUBSCRIBE NOW
SPECIALIST NURSERIES & PLANTS
Growers of many plants suitable for coastal areas including hedging plants
FORTON NURSERY Top Quality Perennials, Shrubs & Trees
T: 01460 239569 E: fortonnursery@btconnect.com W: www.fortonnursery.co.uk
All propagated and grown in Devon Established suppliers to landscape designers
Forton village, near Chard TA20 4HD Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays
..and treat yourself to a gardening delight
Ten issues throughout next year
P P
Just £20 for a respected, knowledgeable and inspirational gardening magazine
www.coastalhedging.co.uk www.seasideplants.co.uk
Cotswolds
P
TERRACOTTA POTS Est. 2003
The Terracotta Pot and Gift Shop Stockists of frostproof pots and garden ornaments from Greece and around the world as well as a host of other gifts and bits and pieces
CERTIFIED ORGANIC VEGETABLE PLANTS Growers Organics, Kitley Farm, Yealmpton, Devon PL8 2LT
www.countrygardener.co.uk
FREE
Letting nature take its course as more gardens go wild and wonderful PLUS:
Trees The mystique of Ancient Wild meadow orchids for charity June gardens opening
Wisteria Q&A gardening Understanding vegan Containers galore
Prepare for Summer AT THE GARDEN focusses on providing
M40
LOVERS GARDEN CENTRE
quality plants, garden
products & giftware
tre.co.uk
You can select from one of our five editions of the magazine which is relevant to where you live.
events Gardening news and throughout the Cotswolds Shoes Win a pair of Backdoor
centre that 690479 OX17 1EL. Tel: 01295 Nr. Farnborough, Banbury On A423 Southam Road, Sun: 10.30am - 4.30pm - Tues-Sat: 9am - 5.30pm OPEN SIX DAYS A WEEK MONDAYS ALSO OPEN BANK HOLIDAY
Open every day
Hassle free and delivered to your door every month
The subscription costs just £20 and guarantees a 10 times a year magazine packed with information , gardening advice, local events.
WILD THING!
A traditional garden
www.growersorganics.com Tel: 01752 881180
Issue No 186 JUNE 2022
LEAMINGTON SPA A425
STRATFORD UPON AVON
DAVENTRY
SOUTHAM A361
A423 A422 BANBURY M40 J11
Farnborough Garden Centre B4100 M40
CHIPPING NORTON
BICESTER
www.farnboroughgardencen
Eastoke Corner, Hayling Island, Hants P011 9LU 02392 637590
WANTED/FOR SALE WANTED OLD RADIO VALVES And Audio Valves. Tel: 07557 792091
Want this space? ADVERTISE HERE FROM JUST £2 PER WORD Email: classified@countrygardener.co.uk for more details
Subscribing is simple. Just fill in the form below and include your cheque for £20.
I would like to subscribe to Country Gardener for the next ten issues for £20: This is a subscription just for me
*
This is a gift (send next available issue)
HOW DID YOU DO?
*
Please choose your region by ticking the box: Cotswolds
*
Devon
*
Dorset
*
Somerset
*
Hampshire
*
Answers from our May 2022 crossword
D
F
W E L J A C T R O T I
A L E G U R A D E L L
X
K D A R O E S E A G
E U M Q U C A T E
I E S T R E P A C H A R E N T
C
I
L
P H O R B R I U I D D A S N T I A S N S T I G M
M A S
E H I P T O S O L H R S E N E P E
R E N S T A
L E I D H O M E G U A R D X D M A
I A A N Y A
E A O R P I N M L
Your details: Title
Forename
Surname
Address
Postcode Tel No
Details of gift recipient: Title
Forename
Surname
Address
Postcode Tel No Complete this form and include a cheque for £20 made out to Alro Publishing Ltd and send to: Magazine Subscriptions, Country Gardener, Mount House, Halse, Taunton, Somerset TA4 3AD. Remember to tell us which one of the five editions you would like to receive.
www.countrygardener.co.uk
53
READERS STORY
How not to employ a gardener Country Gardener reader Adam Woolridge hasn’t had the best of experiences when it comes to finding a gardener to help out in his one and a half acre Somerset garden – bad choices, wrong people, arguments and damaged plants have made the experience difficult... but at least there’s a happy ending What did they used to say in those old crime television shows - ‘the names have been changed to protect the innocent’? So my story of trying and, hurrah, eventually finding a competent, skilful and reliable gardener have been stressful, loaded with mistakes and I certainly don’t want any repercussions by giving out the real names of some of the people I’ve had in my garden. I am 45, an avid gardener but have two businesses to run and a garden a little over one of a half acres. It has borders, vegetable beds, lots of lawn, some now overgrown paths and a rose bed and some other areas of wildflowers and shrubs. My wife is not able to do a lot of physical work but knows what she is talking about when it comes to the garden. So, the bulk of the hard work falls on me. And I just for the past two years haven’t had the time. So, we both agreed let’s employ a gardener who we can give plenty of work to. Easy! So, we asked around, spread the word, Advertised in
Editorial
Magazines
Publisher & Editor: Alan Lewis alan@countrygardener.co.uk Tel: 01823 431767
village newsletters then in the local paper, then in the village store. Nothing, no-one! We had a check list ready if ever anyone did turn up: • Someone with a recognised qualification in the area of gardening or horticulture. • Someone who has plenty of experience. • Someone who can supply references, or could show us samples of their work, such as nearby gardens. • Someone who comes highly recommended perhaps from friends or neighbours. We were prepared to shop around, and to ask plenty of questions. Eventually someone answered the notice in the village store. Nick had, he said, years of experience but no qualifications and had all the tools and could start straight way. His rate was £22 an hour. He was better he said at the bigger jobs, mowing, strimming, cutting back. He would dig but not for too long. He worked for us for three days and was a disaster and had no control over his strimmer and my wife called him a vandal. Number two was the exact opposite Malcolm, a frail even ill looking chap who said he used to work for the RHS didn’t like heavy work but was hard working and experienced at pruning and cutting back. His rate was £25 an hour. After three days it was difficult to see what he had done. The rose arch looked neater but he seemed to work all day on that. We would have persevered I think but he said his mother was taken ill in Wales and had to go. Number three Luke came to look at the garden, tutted and said not for
him, - too big. Number four Peter I think, who sounded perfect was recommended but didn’t turn up and literally went missing. Number five was a lovely middle aged lady called Rose (a good omen we agreed) who said she wasn’t afraid of hard work, brought impressive references and seemed ideal. She was too social. She loved chatting and she and my wife seemed, to my eyes to spend all afternoon talking about what needed to be some as opposed to doing anything. It was never going to work And then came Emma, slight, a friend of a friend who sort of knew our daughter and was building up gardening clients as she tried to build a business. Like everything, you usually get what you pay for. Emma was a recent graduate from a good horticulture course and charged a relatively low hourly rate of £15 an hour. Emma worked hard, stopped and asked before doing anything drastic, used our mowers and tools and came up with ideas about what we could do better - the only one to do that. Emma isn’t her real name. I’m not going to share her with anyone. We will probably adopt her she’s that good.!!
So what have I learned? •
•
•
•
•
Beware of false economy. The less a gardener charges the longer they are likely to take - after all, what incentive do they have to hurry? Many non-qualified gardeners try to charge the same as a qualified gardener - so why not just look for a qualified gardener and get what you are already paying for! Save money (and help your gardener) by doing the right job at the right time! Garden maintenance is required all year around. Talk to your gardener about how to simplify your garden i.e. mulching borders so you don’t have to weed so often. Plan ahead and call your gardener before the garden gets desperate as he/she may be busy. To some people it’s a wildflower - to others it’s a weed. Every customer is different. Let your gardener know exactly what you want. Talk to your gardener if there is something they have not done it may be because it is the wrong time of year to do so.
Time Off
Cath Pettyfer - Devon cath.pettyfer@countrygardener.co.uk Tel: 01837 82660
Lisa Cawkill - Dorset & Hampshire lisa@countrygardener.co.uk Tel: 01945 450784
Distribution & Stockists
Advertising Sales
Corina Reay - Cotswolds corina@countrygardener.co.uk Tel: 01823 410098
Design & Production
Tel: 01594 543790
Classifieds classified@countrygardener.co.uk
Gemma Stringer gemma@countrygardener.co.uk
Kate Lewis timeoff@countrygardener.co.uk Ava Bench - Somerset ava@countrygardener.co.uk Tel: 01278 786139
Aidan Gill aidan@countrygardener.co.uk
Pat Eade distribution@countrygardener.co.uk
Accounts and subscriptions Heather Rose heather@countrygardener.co.uk
The Country Gardener magazines are distributed FREE at Nurseries, garden centres, National Trust Properties, open gardens, garden machinery specialists, country stores and farm shops in each county. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored or made available in any form, without the written permission of the copyright holder and Publisher, application for which should be made to the Publisher. Unsolicited material: do not send or submit your only version of manuscripts and/or photographs/transparencies to us as these cannot be returned to you. While every care is taken to ensure that material submitted is priced accurately and completely, we cannot be responsible or liable for any loss or damage suffered. Views and/or opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent those of Country Gardener or the Publisher. Printed by Mortons Print Ltd, Morton Way, Boston Road Industrial Estate, Horncastle, LN9 6JR.
54
Country Gardener
Say it with Wood • Natural • Beautiful • Sustainable
info@sayitwithwood.co.uk 07958 345833
www.sayitwithwood.co.uk
Herefordshire’s Most Inspirational Plant Centre
Newent Plant Centre @ The Nest, Little Verzons, Ledbury
AS SUMMER APPROACHES, IT IS THE PERFECT TIME TO WANDER AROUND OUR INSPIRATIONAL DISPLAYS. Get ideas for your own gardens from our plant combinations. We have trees, shrubs, climbers, cottage garden plants, herbs, plants for shade... and so much more.
Time to fill the garden with Summer Colour Perfect Perennials - Gaura, Coreopsis, Verbena, Dahlia, Heucheras... all flower non-stop until late Autumn
Hanging Baskets & Patio Containers - Summer colour in abundance! Our favourite for containers is lovely Cosmos!
Vegetable Plants - keep planting salad crops such as Lettuce, Spinach, Beetroot for continuous crops
Over 100 varieties of Heuchera “Collectors Corner” of Unusual and Hard to Find Plants
Friendly advice always available from Mark and his team
Open 7 Days a week
A417 LEOMINSTER
Verzons Hotel HEREFORD
Trumpet Inn A4172 DYMOCK & NEWENT
A438
LEDBURY
Newent Plant Centre @ The Nest
Find us @ The Nest just 3 miles west of Ledbury
We sell and accept
Newent Plant Centre @ The Nest, Little Verzons, Hereford Road, Ledbury HR8 2PZ. TEL: 01531 670121 EMAIL: enquiry@newentplantcentre.co.uk
www.newentplantcentre.co.uk Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
RHS Gold Medalists