Take it easy this summer

from Shire Magazine July-August 2023 Cheshire

Plant promotion

The horticultural team at Reaseheath College and University Centre in Nantwich explain the work that goes in to keep gardens and grounds in top condition over the warm, dry summer

Thehectic plant growth of spring is hopefully slowing to a more leisurely pace, allowing us to pause and admire the results of our hard work in beds, borders and vegetable plot. Although there are still plenty of jobs to be done, much can be achieved in an hour or two –and often you can gain great results by doing less rather than more. Our team works hard to keep the campus gardens and grounds in top condition as backdrop for summer open days, events and awards ceremonies. Here are their top suggestions for low-input tasks that deliver the most effective results, with sustainability being key.

• Deadhead and reshape early flowering perennials. You may encourage a second flush from astrantias, geraniums, geums and campanulas.

• Control weeds by shallow hoeing. Choose dry days with a light wind and leave uprooted seedlings on the surface to enrich the soil.

• Open greenhouse vents and dampen the ground to increase humidity and deter spider mites.

Plant a tree in ’23

Love trees but not sure you have the space at home? You won’t need your own woodland to accommodate these miniature varieties.

Japanese maple

With its delicate, lacy leaves and stunning autumn colours, the Japanese maple is a favourite with garden enthusiasts. Plant in a partially shaded area with well-draining soil, and protect from strong winds.

Dwarf conifers

These compact evergreens offer year-round beauty and architectural interest. Varieties like Pinus mugo ‘Mops’ or Pinus strobus ‘Nana’ thrive in UK gardens. Place in full sun or partial shade, and prune occasionally to maintain their desired shape.

Top Tips

Water early and late in the day and recycle rainwater and kitchen water where possible. Prevent hanging baskets from drying out by adding water-retaining granules and positioning out of wind. Instead of watering lawns in dry weather, mow less closely and less often. This will also allow wildflowers to grow and provide food for bees and insects. Neaten edges along borders rather than a full mow.

• Harness the power of nature by filling gaps in your beds and borders with flowering plants that naturally deter slugs. These include foxgloves, euphorbias, Japanese anemones, astrantias, hemerocallis, salvias, succulents and grasses.

• Harvest vegetable and salad crops regularly and enjoy while they’re still young and fresh.

• Plant autumn-flowering bulbs such as nerines and crocus in well-drained soil. It’s also time to sow biennials such as foxglove, sweet William and forget-me-not.

• Pick up tips from the experts and enjoy great days out at RHS or local open gardens.

For information on horticulature courses at Reaseheath, visit www. reaseheath.ac.uk/horticulture

Crab apple

Crab apple trees show a stunning display of fragrant flowers in spring, followed by colorful fruits in autumn. Choose a dwarf or semi-dwarf variety, such as Malus ‘Royalty’ or ‘Golden Hornet’. These trees need ample sunlight for optimal growth.

Flowering cherry

Known for their breathtaking spring blossoms, flowering cherry trees are a sight to behold. Select a dwarf cultivar such as Prunus ‘Kojo-no-mai’ or ‘Accolade’, and a sunny or partially shaded location.

Holly

Holly trees are not only associated with festive cheer but also bring year-round beauty to your garden. Opt for a compact variety like Ilex aquifolium ‘Little Rascal’ or Ilex crenata ‘Convexa’.

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