WhatToGrow Spring 2024 Edition

welcome

Editorial

Editior James Davis

Feature Editor Cheryl Elizabeth Davis

CONTRIBUTORS

David Gallacher

Jenny Winnard

JJ on behalf of Bearded Growers

SPECIAL THANKS

Charlotte Daubney - bulbs.co.uk

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James Davis Editor Spring Edition

Spring, the time to celebrate the vibrant renewal of nature and the joy of getting back out into our own green spaces. As the frost melts away and the earth awakens with the promise of new life.

In this issue, we delve into the joy that is spring gardening, offering expert advice, inspiring stories, and practical tips to help you make the most of this magical time of year.

From planning your garden layout to selecting the perfect plants, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to create a flourishing oasis of color and vitality.

So grab your gloves and join us as we embark on a journey of growth, discovery, and endless possibilities in the spring garden.

Once again thank you to our contributors for all your efforts. Keep gardening!

01. Extending the Joy of Amaryllis pg.4

02. A Guide to Ground Cherries pg. 6

03. Garden jobs for March pg. 10

04. March seedsowing pg. 12

05. Dividing herbaceous perennials pg. 14

06. Summer flowering bulbs pg. 16

07. Gardening jobs for April pg. 20

08. Looking after Spring flowering bulbs pg. 22

09. Gardening jobs for May pg. 26

10. Tips for a Successful Allotment pg. 28

11. The Battle Against Garden Pests Through Time pg. 30

Amaryllis Hardiness

Remember, Amaryllis bulbs are not very frosthardy. While they can tolerate a light frost, prolonged freezing temperatures can be fatal. In colder climates, container planting and indoor winter storage are your best bets for enjoying their beauty year after year

Extending the Joy of Amaryllis: Postflowering Care, Replanting, and Outdoor Adventures

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The majestic Amaryllis, with its dazzling Christmas blooms, can become more than just a fleeting festive delight. With proper post-flowering care and strategic replanting, you can enjoy their vibrant beauty for years to come.

Here’s a guide to navigate your Amaryllis’ journey beyond the holiday season:

Post-Bloom Care for Replanting

1. Graceful Pruning

Once the flowers fade, gently remove the flower stalk about 1-2 inches above the bulb. This prevents unnecessary energy expenditure and allows the leaves to focus on nourishing the bulb for future blooms.

Post-Bloom Care for Replanting

1. Harden Up

After the last frost, gradually acclimate your Amaryllis to outdoor conditions. Place it in a sheltered spot for increasing periods each day for about a week. This hardening process helps the plant adjust to the harsher outdoor environment.

2. Hydration and Nourishment

Continue watering your Amaryllis regularly, keeping the soil slightly moist but not soggy. Remember, overwatering can be detrimental. Provide monthly half-strength houseplant fertilizer to replenish the nutrients used during blooming.

3. Bask in the Sunshine

Place your Amaryllis in a bright, sunny location to encourage healthy leaf growth. Sunlight fuels photosynthesis, creating the energy reserves needed for future blooms.

2. The Perfect Spot

Choose a sunny, well-drained location with slightly acidic soil for your Amaryllis. Remember, good drainage is key to preventing bulb rot.

3. Watering Wisdom

Water regularly throughout the growing season, aiming for moist but not soggy soil. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

4. Winter Retreat

In colder climates, dig up the bulb before the first frost and store it indoors as described earlier. This winter slumber ensures its survival until spring returns, when you can replant it outdoors.

JENNY

The PHYSALIS, commonly known as the Cape Gooseberry or Ground Cherry

The PHYSALIS, commonly known as the Cape Gooseberry or Ground Cherry….have you every eaten one..no? Well, you simply must! They are so delicious, a mixture of mango, pineapple, cherry tomato – do you remember the Umbongo drink from the 90’s? to me they remind me of this! Totally yummy!

Did you know you can grow them quite easily, as easily as a tomato plant! Sow them and grow them the same way as you would a tomato plant and you won’t go wrong.

Cape Gooseberries gained popularity for their unique flavour and culinary versatility. They were introduced to the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa, which led to the ‘Cape’ in their common name. The plants golden, lantern-like husk and sweet-tart taste contributed to its appeal. Additionally, Physalis fruits are rich in vitamins and antioxidants.

It is a plant I will always grow, peeling back the fruits protective husk, to reveal the golden round fruit inside is pure joy! Its like giving yourself a prize, every time you eat one, and so it should feel like this, what an achievement to grow something so tasty that you can’t pick up very easily in many places!

Things to know about Physalis: Half Hardy perennial

Sow Indoors or under glass from February-April

Sow Indoors or under glass from February-April – Height 150cm Spread 60cm. Treat this the same as you would a tomato plant. Sow onto moist well draining seed compost and only just cover the seed with sieved soil. Tend to grow better inside (greenhouse) but they can be grown outdoors.

prolific in the fruit production can be grown outdoors

They are prolific in the fruit they produce, last year I was still harvesting them in the greenhouse well into late October early November when all the other greenhouse plants were long gone.

They can be grown outdoors, depending on where you are in the country, they will probably do better outdoors if you are in warmer more southernly climates, but that is not going to stop me trying them outdoors this year in my North West Allotment in Wigan! If you do plant them outside, harden them off for a few weeks before planting out, and make sure to only plant out after the risk of frost has passed in your area.

strong plants from tiny seeds

The seed is the tiniest seed you can imagine, yet they grow into really strong stemmed robust plants. They do need support, and climb like a tomato plant, but without the fuss of sucker removal. Last year I used a bamboo cane in the middle of the plant pot (I actually grow them in a builders bucket that I poke drainage holes into) and tied in the stems as they grew, they tend to throw off 4 main strong sems, not too much work at all, they really do look after themselves in all honesty once they have got going.

Happy growing

Today, Cape gooseberries are cultivated in various regions globally, and their distinctive appearance and delightful taste continue to make them a unique and sought -after fruit…so why not grow your own, you will have friends and family lining up to try them I promise you!

I got my seeds from www.chilternseeds.co.uk and highly recommend them as a supplier.

Jobs for the garden this march

With the arrival of spring, an array of tasks beckon, promising both challenge and fulfillment.

March brings forth a tapestry of responsibilities, from pruning dormant trees and shrubs to preparing the soil for the upcoming planting season. Tender seedlings yearn for nurturing hands to transplant them into the warming earth, while perennials eagerly await division and rejuvenation.

You will find yourself meticulously sowing seeds, cultivating early-season crops, and meticulously tending to emerging blooms. As the days lengthen and the earth awakens, there’s no shortage of tasks to engage the green-thumbed enthusiast, offering not only a bountiful harvest but also a profound connection to the rhythm of nature.

heading out to the garden

1 Pruning: Trim back any dead or damaged branches from trees, shrubs, and bushes before new growth begins.

2 Soil Preparation: Turn over the soil in preparation for planting, adding compost or organic matter to enrich it.

3 Planting: Sow seeds indoors for later transplanting, and directly sow cold-hardy vegetables and flowers outdoors.

4 Dividing Perennials: Split overcrowded perennial plants to promote healthier growth and create new plants.

Top gardening jobs this month

5 Weeding:

Remove weeds before they have a chance to establish and compete with your desired plants.

6 Mulching:

Apply a layer of mulch around plants to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature.

7 Fertilising:

Feed your plants with a balanced fertiliser to support their growth and development.

8 Pests and Diseases: eep an eye out for signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate action if necessary.

Plant summer-flowering bulbs

Bulbs create a stunning spectacle whether planted in containers or borders, particularly daffodils, snowdrops, and tulips during springtime. They rank among the simplest and most fulfilling garden flora to cultivate.

10 Priming Lawn:

If necessary, start preparing your lawn for the growing season by aerating, overseeding, and fertilising.

11 Installing Supports:

Set up trellises, stakes, or other supports for climbing plants before they start to grow vigorously.

12 Planning and Designing:

Use this time to plan and design your garden layout for the upcoming season, considering crop rotations and companion planting.

13 Tool Maintenance:

Clean and sharpen garden tools to ensure they’re ready for the season ahead.

14 Watering:

Monitor soil moisture levels and water as needed, especially for newly planted seeds and seedlings.

9 Starting Seedlings:

Begin sowing seeds indoors for warmseason vegetables and flowers that require a longer growing season.

“ To plant a Garden is to believe in tomorrow. ”

Audrey Hepburn

15 Protecting from Frost: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and protect tender plants from late frosts with cloches, row covers, or other protective measures.

Seeds to sow in march

It’s that time of year depending on your location ( for sowing outdoor in frost free areas only) to be looking at sowing some annuals for the summer display. In colder areas delay sowing till March.

Here are a few great summer flowering plants you can sow in late January to the end of March in the UK, along with their difficulty level and ideal sowing times:

See seed packets for more sowing hints

Easy to germinate

cosmos

These cheerful daisy-like flowers come in a variety of vibrant colours and flower from July to September.

Sow seeds directly outdoors in a sunny spot after the last frost. Indoors now as long as frost free.

Nasturtiums

These towering beauties are a classic symbol of summer. Sow seeds directly outdoors in a sunny spot after the last frost,or indoor anytime now.

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Sunflowers

These trailing plants produce edible flowers in shades of orange, yellow, and red. They’re perfect for borders, containers, and even salads! Sow seeds directly outdoors in a sunny spot after the last frost. Indoors any time now.

DAVID GALLACHER

Moderate difficulty

Zinnia

These showy flowers come in a wide range of colours and sizes. They prefer warm weather, so sow seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Harden off seedlings before transplanting them outdoors.

Marigolds

These versatile flowers deter pests and add pops of colour to borders and containers. Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost or directly outdoors in a sunny spot after the last frost.

More challenging

Begonias

These shade-loving beauties come in a variety of colours and forms. Sow seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last frost. Begonia seeds are quite small, so be careful not to sow them too thickly.

snapdragons

These tall spikes of flowers come in a variety of colours and are a favourite among pollinators. Sow seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Harden off seedlings before transplanting them outdoors.

Celosia

These spiky flowers come in a variety of shapes and colours, including cockscombs and plumes. They prefer warm weather, so sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Harden off seedlings before transplanting them outdoors.

Petunias

These popular bedding plants come in a wide range of colours and bloom all summer long. Sow seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Petunia seeds are also quite small, so be careful not to sow them too thickly.

No matter what your skill level, there are plenty of summer flowering plants that you can sow in late January to the end of March in the UK. With a little planning and care, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful and colorful display come summertime!

As winter loosens its grip and spring approaches, February to late March presents a prime opportunity to rejuvenate your garden through the strategic division of herbaceous perennials.

This practice not only propagates existing plants but also invigorates them, leading to flourishing displays throughout the coming season.

Guide to Dividing Herbaceous Perennials in February to Late March

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Selecting the Right Candidates:

Numerous herbaceous perennials benefit from division during this window. Some prime examples include daylilies, asters, ornamental grasses, irises, hostas, epimedium, heuchera and strawberry plants to name a few. We

Identifying mature clumps exhibiting overcrowding or diminished vigor signifies ideal candidates for revitalisation.

DAVID GALLACHER

Choosing the Optimal Technique:

The division method varies based on the root structure and overall characteristics of the chosen perennials. Here’s a breakdown of commonly employed techniques.

1. Dig and Pull:

For plants with smaller clumps and fibrous roots, such as heuchera and epimedium, simply dig them up, gently shake off excess soil to reveal the root system, and carefully pull apart individual divisions containing 3-5 healthy shoots and roots.

2. Fork it Apart

Larger, fibrous-rooted perennials like daylilies and ornamental grasses benefit from the “fork it apart” method. Insert two garden forks back-to-back into the clump, push outwards to loosen the root mass, and then gently pry the clump apart into smaller divisions.

Dividing like a Pro:

1. Pre-Hydration:

Water the chosen perennials generously the day before division. This hydrates the root system and facilitates easier digging.

5. Root Exposure:

Shake off excess soil to clearly visualize the root system, enabling accurate division.

2. Favourable Conditions: Opt for a cool, cloudy day for dividing your perennials. Hot weather can stress the plants during the process.

3. Sharp Tool Split:

Plants with woody crowns, such as helleborus, or fleshy roots, like delphinium, might necessitate a sharp spade or

knife for division. Carefully cut through the crown or root mass, ensuring each division retains sufficient shoots and roots.

6. Strategic Separation:

Employ the chosen division method, prioritizing divisions with 3-5 healthy shoots and adequate roots. Don’t worry about minor root damage; the plant will readily regenerate.

3. Gentle Excavation:

Loosen the soil around the entire root ball, working wider than the foliage, using a spade or fork to avoid unnecessary root damage.

7. Immediate Replanting:

Prepare planting holes in suitable locations, amend the soil if necessary, and replant the divisions at the same depth they were originally.

4. Lifting with Care:

Carefully lift the plant out of the ground, supporting the root mass beneath with a spade or your hands.

8. Hydration and Support:

Water the newly planted divisions generously and maintain consistent moisture for the first few weeks until they are well-established. Consider applying a light mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Paeonia Sorbet

Purple Rain

Salvia Verticillata

Iris Burgemeister

12 beautiful summer flowering bulbs you can order today ready for spring planting

Summer flowering bulbs are a vibrant addition to any garden, boasting a spectacular array of colours, shapes, and sizes. These bulbs, which include varieties like dahlias, lilies, gladioli, and begonias, burst into bloom during the warmest months, filling outdoor spaces with their dazzling displays. Their diverse characteristics make them versatile options for landscaping, whether you’re aiming for a formal garden with neatly arranged beds or a more naturalistic setting with wildflower-like bursts of colour. From the towering spires of gladioli to the delicate, nodding heads of lilies, each type of bulb brings its own unique charm to the summer garden.

One of the delights of summer flowering bulbs is their ease of cultivation, making them accessible to both novice and experienced gardeners alike. Many

varieties thrive in well-drained soil and full sun, though there are options available for shadier spots as well. With proper planting and care, these bulbs can multiply and return year after year, rewarding gardeners with ever-expanding patches of beauty. Whether used as focal points in garden beds, mixed with other perennials and annuals in borders, or showcased in containers on patios and balconies, summer flowering bulbs add a touch of elegance and exuberance to outdoor spaces, ensuring a season filled with colour and fragrance.

Cheyenne Chieftain

Sarah Bernhardt

Paeonia

Dahlia

Pink

green Twister

Black Dragon

Lily of the Valley

Echinacea

Iris

Dahlia Labyrinth

Dahlia Rosella

Iris Champagne Elegance

Jobs for the garden this april

April gardening marks the eagerly anticipated arrival of spring, where the garden bursts into life after the dormancy of winter.

With the days growing longer and the soil warming up, April is a time of bustling activity. It’s a month of preparation and anticipation, as beds are cleared, soil is amended, and seeds are sown. From the first delicate shoots of early spring bulbs to the emergence of tender new leaves on trees and shrubs, the garden is alive with promise and potential.

April offers the perfect window for planting cool-season crops like lettuce, spinach, and peas, while also heralding the time to start tender annuals indoors for later transplanting.

keeping you Busy

1 Preparation and Planning: Assessing and planning garden layouts for the upcoming growing season.

2 Ordering: It’s time to order seeds, plants, and other gardening supplies ready for the months ahead

3 Designs and layouts: Get creating or update your garden designs and layouts.

4 Planting schedule: Plan for the year ahead by developing a planting schedule.

Top gardening jobs this month

5 Turn over garden beds:

Turning over garden beds to loosen soil and improve aeration.

6 Weeds:

Keep and eye our for weeds and removing them promptly to prevent competition for nutrients and space.

7 Keep Watering: Watering newly planted seeds, seedlings, and transplants regularly, keeping the soil moist

8 Supporting your plants: Install supports, trellises, or cages for climbing plants as they grow.

Outdoor seed sowing presents a straightforward, budget-friendly, and enjoyable method for nurturing new plants. It’s well-suited for a wide range of hardy flowers and vegetables.

9

Divide and transplant: Dividing and transplanting perennials as needed.

10

Start summer crops: Tomatoes, peppers, and squash can be sow

11 Pruning fruit trees: Prune fruit trees, shrubs, and ornamental

12

Bare-root trees: Planting bare-root trees, shrubs, and perennials.

Caring for spring bulbs after flowering

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Outdoor bulbs

Caring for spring bulbs after flowering is crucial for ensuring their future flowering . Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects:

Deadheading:

1. Generally recommended:

Removing spent flowers (deadheading) encourages the bulb to put its energy into growing healthy foliage and bulking up for next year’s flowers.

This applies to most common bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. shoots and roots.

Feeding:

Continue watering and feeding for 4-6 weeks:

Hot weather can stress the plants during the process. Even after flowering, the bulb foliage is still busy photosynthesising and storing nutrients for next year. Apply a balanced fertiliser or a high-potassium fertiliser to support this process.

Cutting back:

Don’t cut back foliage early:

Resist the urge to cut back the green foliage, even if it looks unsightly. Allow it to die back naturally, as this replenishes the bulb’s energy reserves.

Additional tips:

Lifting and dividing:

Some bulbs, like daffodils, benefit from lifting and dividing every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding and maintain good flowering. Do this when the foliage has yellowed.

2. Exceptions:

For some bulbs like crocuses and alliums, you can leave the seed heads if you want them to self-sow and naturalise. Also, deadheading daffodils is optional as it doesn’t significantly affect future flowering.

stop feeding once foliage yellows:

When the foliage naturally dies back and turns yellow, discontinue watering and feeding

Cutting back after foliage yellows:

Once the foliage is completely yellow and easily pulls away from the bulb, you can cut it back neatly at ground level. Compost the healthy foliage, but discard any diseased or infested parts.

Leaving bulbs in the ground:

Most spring bulbs can simply be left in the ground year-round, where they will naturalise and multiply over time.

Remember, specific needs may vary depending on the type of bulb you have.

Protecting bulbs:

If you live in a cold climate, consider mulching around the bulbs in the autumn to protect them from harsh winter freezes.

By following these simple tips, you can help your spring bulbs thrive and bring you joy for many seasons to come!

Replanting Indoor Spring Bulbs for Future Blooms

Timing: Avoid frost

Typically, late spring or early summer is safe, but adjust based on your locale.

General Replanting Specific Bulb Strategies:

Tulips & Daffodils:

Post-bloom:

Once foliage yellows, carefully dig and store bulbs in a cool, dry location until planting.

Planting:

Choose a sunny, well-drained spot. Plant bulbs 6-8 inches deep, pointed end up.

Hardiness:

Research your specific bulb’s hardiness zone. Tulips and daffodils, for instance, thrive in colder climates, while paperwhites and hyacinths require protection from harsh winters.

Watering:

Maintain regular watering until outdoor planting.

Hyacinths

Flowering:

Trim flower stalks, but allow foliage to die naturally.

Replanting:

Dig bulbs after foliage dies and store them for autumn planting.

Bonus Professional Tips :

Soil improvement:

Enrich planting soil with compost or organic matter for optimal drainage and fertility.

Paperwhites

Disposable:

Typically grown for one season, though Autumn replanting is possible (blooming uncertain).

Crocuses

Replanting:

Directly plant in sun with welldrained soil, at a depth of 2-3 inches, after flowering.

Watering:

Rehydrate regularly, especially during the first weeks after planting.

Patience:

If you live in a cold climate, consider mulching around the bulbs in the autumn to protect them from harsh winter freezes. By

indoor spring bulbs to flourish in your garden.

After captivating your winter with vibrant flowers, your indoor spring bulbs deserve a second act in your garden.

Jobs for the garden this may

May gardening is a vibrant symphony of colours and scents, where the promise of spring fully blossoms into lush greenery and vibrant blooms. As temperatures rise and daylight stretches longer, avid gardeners eagerly tend to their plots, nurturing new growth and tending to established plants.

May offers a perfect balance of warmth and moisture, ideal for planting a diverse array of flowers, vegetables, and herbs. It’s a time of rejuvenation in the garden, with tasks ranging from sowing seeds and transplanting seedlings to pruning, weeding, and mulching.

Whether cultivating a small urban garden or sprawling countryside plot, May provides ample opportunities for gardeners to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and reap the rewards of their labor as the season unfolds.

Top

1 Planting: May is a great time for planting many types of plants, including annuals, perennials, vegetables, and herbs.

2 Weeding: R egularly remove weeds from your garden beds to prevent them from competing with your plants for nutrients, water, and sunlight.

3 Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to help conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

4 Harvesting:

If you have any vegetables or fruits ready for harvest, be sure to pick them promptly to encourage further production.

5 Fertilising:

Feed your plants with a balanced fertiliser to support healthy growth and flowering.

6 Pruning:

Deadhead flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Prune shrubs and trees as needed to maintain shape and remove dead or diseased branches.

gardening jobs this month Protect

7 Supporting:

Install supports such as stakes, trellises, or cages for tall or vining plants like tomatoes, peas, and cucumbers to help them grow upright and prevent damage.

8 Planning: Use this time to plan for the coming months.

9 Composting:

Continue to add to your compost pile or bin to create nutrient-rich compost.

10

Watering

As the weather warms up, plants will require more water. Water deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth. Be mindful not to overwater.

WRITTEN BY JJ ON BEHALF OF BEARDED GROWERS Follow me on Instagram @bearded.growers

Spring into Action: Tips for a Successful Allotment

As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, it’s the perfect time for avid gardeners in the UK to prepare their allotments for a bountiful spring season. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a green fingered novice, these tips will help you make the most of your allotment space. Start by assessing your plot. Clear away any debris or weeds that may have accumulated over the winter months. This not only tidies up the area but also prevents pests and diseases from taking hold. Consider rotating your crops to maintain soil health and avoid nutrient depletion.

Spring is obviously the perfect time for sowing seeds. Choose varieties that thrive in the UK climate, such as peas, carrots, and lettuce. Follow recommended planting spacing and timing, this isn’t always as it says on the packet as it depends on your geographical location. Consider using a greenhouse or cold frame to give your seeds a head start and remember to protect them from late frosts.

Mulching is crucial for moisture retention and weed control. Organic materials like straw or compost can be applied around plants to conserve water and suppress unwanted growth. Additionally, regularly inspect your allotment for signs of pests, like

slugs or aphids, and take prompt action to prevent infestations by companion planting or using organic pest control measures.

Stay vigilant against unpredictable weather, be prepared to cover delicate plants during unexpected frosts or heavy rains. Proper watering is essential, especially during dry spells (we can only hope). Aim to water at the base of plants in the morning or evening to minimise evaporation.

Encourage biodiversity by planting companion crops and flowers that attract beneficial insects. This natural approach can help control pests and promote a healthier garden ecosystem.

Remember, allotments are not just about the harvest; it’s about the joy of nurturing plants and connecting with nature. With these tips, your allotment will flourish, providing you with a delightful array of fresh, homegrown produce throughout the spring and beyond. Happy gardening!

Bearded Growers are back on air in March. Listen online, via the Cotswolds Radio app or ask your smart speaker to play Cotswolds Radio. 7pm - 9pm every Monday from the 18th of March.

The Battle Against Garden Pests Through Time

Over the years I am pretty sure many gardeners have experimented and tested many methods in getting rid of those pesky garden pests such as insects that eat our flowers, slugs that demolish the leaves on plants and birds that eat the fruits from them.

Dealing with the problem today we can go to the local garden center and search the ridiculous amount of brands selling slug pellets, sprays and all sorts of items to scare off birds and potions that do the job. How effective they are is another story. One thing

that interested me was reading how people through different time periods have dealt with these issues because let’s face it garden pests have always been a problem to the gardener and farmers.

In 1885 an anonymous gardener wrote to a garden magazine stating how to get rid of woodlice using a trap which consisted of 10 inch pots which were half filled with dried horse droppings and lay the droppings where the insects congregate. The gardener advised that once a week turn the droppings out into the fire and put fresh ones

in. Continue this process and all will be rid of. The same gardener recommended cold boiled potatoes covered in moss. The gardener would have to check morning and night and transfer the woodlice into a bucket of hot water. The process would have to be repeated but apparently it worked. This idea sounds like a lot of work involved to be honest.

In March 1937 it was reported that dry mustard dusted over plants proved to be successful in getting rid of insect pests. The mixture needed to consist of two teaspoonfuls of mustard to a pint of water and poured around the roots of the plant that had the insects on. The same person swore by mustard and even encouraged it when growing daffodils. They advised to use mustard as a fertilizer and they will be more vibrant in colour and finer.

A Scottish farmer reported in 1879 that his crops were being destroyed by the devilish slugs and snails. It was only after throwing a heap of carrots near by his crops he found they had gone and left them alone. However, the rotting carrots contained at least 500 snails and slugs.

On facebook this week, a keen gardener has suggested she saves up all her egg shells over the winter period and then crushes them up into a powder which she suggests she puts over her tomato plants suffering from “blossom end rot” and to get rid of the slugs and snails in her garden.

So perhaps if you don’t want to keep using chemical sprays but a more natural environmentally friendly solution to getting rid of garden pests perhaps you could try a few of these methods.

CHERYL DAVIS

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