tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52056701593092943122024-03-13T02:48:32.774+00:00 NG 'Little Seedlings'NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.comBlogger213125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-80821970322678523022020-03-03T20:39:00.000+00:002020-03-03T20:39:18.698+00:00February Favourites!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Good Evening!</div>
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Apologies for it being such a long time since I posted, I didn't realise that I hadn't wrote a post since January. Luckily February is one of the quieter months so you didn't miss too much that's been going in my garden! I thought I'd share with you my favourite pictures that I took last month to get you all back up to speed ...</div>
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Let's start off with more heavenly Hellebores! I know I shared a few in my last post but you can never have too many Hellebores!</div>
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<i>Helleborus x hybridus</i> 'Harvington ... Apricot' 'Picotee' and 'Single Yellow Dark Eye'</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MRoqwe0jaCM/Xl65mILt0kI/AAAAAAAAuoc/l1R3Qh0F_vcWu4SR9zeAfLi7ZZMDUG35QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/7B119E5F-F4E6-4727-997B-2262DF27F0EA.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MRoqwe0jaCM/Xl65mILt0kI/AAAAAAAAuoc/l1R3Qh0F_vcWu4SR9zeAfLi7ZZMDUG35QCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/7B119E5F-F4E6-4727-997B-2262DF27F0EA.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Helleborus</i> 'Anna's Red'</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oy_ylz3glXA/Xl65uTOC4BI/AAAAAAAAuoo/l_yXJSelAGIFZ2WDVbfE-_V_J03Y6nNuQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_7625.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1179" data-original-width="1600" height="293" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oy_ylz3glXA/Xl65uTOC4BI/AAAAAAAAuoo/l_yXJSelAGIFZ2WDVbfE-_V_J03Y6nNuQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_7625.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Helleborus</i> 'Pink Beauty'</div>
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This particular variety always flowers prolifically in my garden each year and is one of my 'forever' plants.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g4_7Q3PPpMs/Xl65jAG0ngI/AAAAAAAAuoU/vOPnSQrXK8UE1SJMuurxHhu6s6Y-lKX4gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/0A7A9F90-9709-4A2A-90CB-79D3A54256C4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g4_7Q3PPpMs/Xl65jAG0ngI/AAAAAAAAuoU/vOPnSQrXK8UE1SJMuurxHhu6s6Y-lKX4gCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/0A7A9F90-9709-4A2A-90CB-79D3A54256C4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Of course the Snowdrops were displaying their delicate blooms last month, as soon as I see them peeking through the soil I'm seriously impatient for them to flower lol</div>
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<i>Galanthus</i> 'Flore Pleno'</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iC3wXVJbsFc/Xl66Of8_E7I/AAAAAAAAuos/H9akBqlBKHsNcn0h6wFK15Ls-FRZuYoeQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_7460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1165" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iC3wXVJbsFc/Xl66Of8_E7I/AAAAAAAAuos/H9akBqlBKHsNcn0h6wFK15Ls-FRZuYoeQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_7460.JPG" width="466" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P5cxxEiHAts/Xl65mrpuhxI/AAAAAAAAuog/d65PbVWSZDwVFe52FO3-LL4mGiZAWEJCgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/36E20455-F040-47B4-BD75-4752AD790F94.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P5cxxEiHAts/Xl65mrpuhxI/AAAAAAAAuog/d65PbVWSZDwVFe52FO3-LL4mGiZAWEJCgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/36E20455-F040-47B4-BD75-4752AD790F94.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Of course another Spring bulb that you can't be without at this time of year is the Crocus. Even though the heavy rain that we've had gave them a little battering the little golden blooms were a pleasure to see.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nIWVl9EnbmY/Xl69gzZhCFI/AAAAAAAAupQ/l2MXO0whENMsbHjQpueG-v1wSuIFmgY8QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_7500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1543" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nIWVl9EnbmY/Xl69gzZhCFI/AAAAAAAAupQ/l2MXO0whENMsbHjQpueG-v1wSuIFmgY8QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_7500.JPG" width="308" /></a></div>
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Meanwhile over in the Greenhouse where the conditions are a bit more bearable the annual routine of sowing the Tomatoes and Sweet Peas is well underway! As you can see from the following photo you can tell what I'l be doing on my next day off ... pricking out Tomato seedlings!</div>
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The varieties I've sown this year are ... 'Gardener's Delight', 'Sungold', 'MoneyMaker' 'Tigerella' 'Maskotka' and 'Black Russian'.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vZghaXx6n24/Xl65l9GXg1I/AAAAAAAAuoY/OiffPjmWGy0OvVA_1CmYrQ7umc_V1OY1wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/2CBB6119-8539-4C61-BF02-A43E73BE4B01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vZghaXx6n24/Xl65l9GXg1I/AAAAAAAAuoY/OiffPjmWGy0OvVA_1CmYrQ7umc_V1OY1wCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/2CBB6119-8539-4C61-BF02-A43E73BE4B01.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i style="text-align: center;">Lathyrus odoratus</i><span style="text-align: center;"> (Sweet Peas) 'Fragrantissima' and 'Heirloom' Mix</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wBzAQbdrczc/Xl65tPfW4NI/AAAAAAAAuok/Bt-_Pcpy0dQGlJTeMrONNje07g4dqQzygCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_7683.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1547" data-original-width="1600" height="386" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wBzAQbdrczc/Xl65tPfW4NI/AAAAAAAAuok/Bt-_Pcpy0dQGlJTeMrONNje07g4dqQzygCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_7683.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Before I go I'd just like to mention that this year all my seedlings are being sown and potted on into an Organic Peat Free Compost. There really is no excuse not to go Peat Free nowadays due to the impact that Peat farming has on the environment, and so far I can say that the particular compost I've chosen to use is performing just as well as a regular Multi-Purpose! (No connection just a happy Gardener)</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nGGsV90XRWw/Xl6_F4qvw8I/AAAAAAAAupU/hhP8VPgUfSM1JFNS-lTmCNevggHi0ijxwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1565" data-original-width="1600" height="312" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nGGsV90XRWw/Xl6_F4qvw8I/AAAAAAAAupU/hhP8VPgUfSM1JFNS-lTmCNevggHi0ijxwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_2521.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Thanks for stopping by, I promise I'l be back soon with more news from my garden!</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-24195794208468697312020-01-26T14:09:00.000+00:002020-01-26T14:09:39.864+00:00Winter Blooms<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Good Afternoon!</div>
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Well after a sunny start the weather has turned and it is now chucking it down outside, so I thought I'd share with you some photo's of what's currently flowering in the garden.</div>
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To start off with is something a little bit out of season, however it's protected in the Greenhouse which is what has encouraged it to flower ... </div>
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<i>Fuchsia</i> 'Dark Eyes'</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-flhwAms-bTo/Xi2NvI299HI/AAAAAAAAugE/nEoGjkt-MFwKe_6bg8SlRBz8lQUyomPtwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1539" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-flhwAms-bTo/Xi2NvI299HI/AAAAAAAAugE/nEoGjkt-MFwKe_6bg8SlRBz8lQUyomPtwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2336.JPG" width="383" /></a></div>
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Outside the Hellebores are putting on a delightful show, here's just a few of the lovely colours that can be seen on the plants right now ... there's still some more varieties waiting for their buds to burst!</div>
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<i> Hellebore hybridus</i> 'Pretty Ellen Purple'</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G2Y0Gu60chA/Xi2N0VJB7aI/AAAAAAAAugQ/iUoAd2IibiQX75qWL0TWBiVxD2HaSBvLACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2351.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1308" data-original-width="1600" height="326" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G2Y0Gu60chA/Xi2N0VJB7aI/AAAAAAAAugQ/iUoAd2IibiQX75qWL0TWBiVxD2HaSBvLACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2351.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i> Hellebore hybridus</i> 'Harvington Lime'</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G5EDrvd1HgU/Xi2Nz_jNWXI/AAAAAAAAugM/17yiGEpwqqEJWrcUrg-8KMYwvM0OgEAKQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1561" data-original-width="1600" height="390" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G5EDrvd1HgU/Xi2Nz_jNWXI/AAAAAAAAugM/17yiGEpwqqEJWrcUrg-8KMYwvM0OgEAKQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2357.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i> Hellebore hybridus</i> 'Pretty Ellen Red'</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-209pkoQwxvk/Xi2OZKMl7cI/AAAAAAAAug0/zt_P5WFZKQw8GhH7-vspJpgRHxC6JXUOgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="1600" height="388" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-209pkoQwxvk/Xi2OZKMl7cI/AAAAAAAAug0/zt_P5WFZKQw8GhH7-vspJpgRHxC6JXUOgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2423.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i> Hellebore hybridus</i> 'Pretty Ellen White'</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ur7svW6cVSU/Xi2N46hDeBI/AAAAAAAAugU/LwKP9d6xA34bmXyG4DBCZ_daIGbhyd13gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1162" data-original-width="1600" height="464" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ur7svW6cVSU/Xi2N46hDeBI/AAAAAAAAugU/LwKP9d6xA34bmXyG4DBCZ_daIGbhyd13gCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2365.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i> Hellebore hybridus</i> 'Double White Speckled'</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S3OctKzsFdw/Xi2OdGZJQ-I/AAAAAAAAug8/Lsop8KndaSosyGkQFl8GLS_VjpJcJff3wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1257" data-original-width="1600" height="500" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S3OctKzsFdw/Xi2OdGZJQ-I/AAAAAAAAug8/Lsop8KndaSosyGkQFl8GLS_VjpJcJff3wCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2261.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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A self seeded Hellebore.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dDkXFv940wo/Xi2WICyVbMI/AAAAAAAAuhY/4HRKqBQEdpUrGYppq0cjxE8AqVlPkM5eQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1506" data-original-width="1600" height="376" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dDkXFv940wo/Xi2WICyVbMI/AAAAAAAAuhY/4HRKqBQEdpUrGYppq0cjxE8AqVlPkM5eQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_2361.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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This next Hellebore is slightly different to the ones shown above, the foliage has slightly jagged edges and the flowers are a subtle green, I have it planted in a large container on the driveway mixed in with other plants but it's currently the star of the show!</div>
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<i>Helleborus argutifolius </i></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k08g1b2I9mo/Xi2OD4CS-dI/AAAAAAAAugg/X0nbUeo1HsM8-h0tMZSewQakfeNe0CftgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1249" data-original-width="1600" height="498" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k08g1b2I9mo/Xi2OD4CS-dI/AAAAAAAAugg/X0nbUeo1HsM8-h0tMZSewQakfeNe0CftgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2415.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Next up are some plants that everyone knows, even if you're not a Gardener, <i>Primroses</i>! Simple yet still beautiful I have a small selection in a little container at the front of the house.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I44Mbmqv7qE/XixdFnDQApI/AAAAAAAAuf0/Q7YNLb2XG0kc0Yb3Dzhl3LClr75nM7duACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ItN81x2irVM/Xi2Njdk1teI/AAAAAAAAugA/mOwM37SoDKwddFf-qMjs9pNj3eSK78oKgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1481" data-original-width="1600" height="296" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ItN81x2irVM/Xi2Njdk1teI/AAAAAAAAugA/mOwM37SoDKwddFf-qMjs9pNj3eSK78oKgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_2325.JPG" width="320" /></a><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1421" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I44Mbmqv7qE/XixdFnDQApI/AAAAAAAAuf0/Q7YNLb2XG0kc0Yb3Dzhl3LClr75nM7duACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_2315.JPG" width="284" /></div>
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Meanwhile indoors I have two small pots of Dwarf Daffodils in the Living Room, one of which started blooming a couple of days ago. At least I have some sunshine indoors!</div>
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<i>Narcissus</i> 'Tete - a - Tete'</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmNZ7NgFF9s/Xi2OZpEI4xI/AAAAAAAAug4/7ilCYf2Tl9Q-RVXcaOKDNM73Hh15ZnM0gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="861" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmNZ7NgFF9s/Xi2OZpEI4xI/AAAAAAAAug4/7ilCYf2Tl9Q-RVXcaOKDNM73Hh15ZnM0gCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2426.JPG" width="344" /></a></div>
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Lastly I just thought I'd share a photo of a little Ladybird I spotted earlier on in the week, it was climbing up this blade of grass in the front border.<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fwV0evUVpHY/Xi2OW4oJQ1I/AAAAAAAAugw/myi5rN_R0aceA5ur4rLuZXjH6pQnnSq_gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2374%2B-%2BCopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fwV0evUVpHY/Xi2OW4oJQ1I/AAAAAAAAugw/myi5rN_R0aceA5ur4rLuZXjH6pQnnSq_gCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2374%2B-%2BCopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Thanks for popping by, enjoy what is left of the weekend!</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-76339335309442920672020-01-08T10:52:00.000+00:002020-01-08T10:53:25.253+00:00New Year, New Plant!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Good Morning!</div>
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In today's post I thought I'd share with you a recent purchase for the garden.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Camellia x williamsii</i> 'Jury's Yellow'</span></div>
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A compact evergreen shrub with green leathery leaves that produces medium sized, anemone-form white flowers with a yellow centre early in the year. </div>
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Prefers a sheltered position out of strong winds and early morning sun, the emerging buds and flowers can be damaged from cold, strong winds and frost. Hardy down to -10 in the UK. </div>
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The ultimate growing height of this plant in 10-20 years is 2.5-4 metres.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T0Y7m5LULg8/XhWmRwE1MnI/AAAAAAAAub8/bOku_AktM-cTuXrXE2rGUvMH1ajZOQqjQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/A9A66820-41F6-4F0D-B770-A32CCBCDBE9D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T0Y7m5LULg8/XhWmRwE1MnI/AAAAAAAAub8/bOku_AktM-cTuXrXE2rGUvMH1ajZOQqjQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/A9A66820-41F6-4F0D-B770-A32CCBCDBE9D.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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The pot is also a new addition as well ... Camellia's are acid loving plants so unfortunately this plant wouldn't do very well if it was planted into the ground in my garden. </div>
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<i>In brief, each garden has a soil ph level. Some will be Acidic, Neutral and some more Alkaline which means certain plants will either thrive or struggle in a particular condition. It's pretty simple to find out what you have by using a Soil Ph Test (available online or in Garden Centre's) and it's always worth knowing what you have.</i></div>
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Camellia's along with Rhododendrons and Heathers are Acid loving plants and my soil is Alkaline, however all is not lost! I can simply grow these plants in Containers using Ericaceous Compost. </div>
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I made sure that I found a pot that was larger than the container the plant came in, added some crocks (broken up pots) to the bottom to aid drainage, then filled it 2 thirds high with the correct compost along with adding some slow release fertiliser. </div>
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It's essential that you give container plants some extra feed due to them not being able to get as many nutrients compared to being planted in the ground. Slow release fertiliser will provide food for 6 months in the compost after which you can then switch to a liquid feed when appropriate.</div>
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I finished off by adding a layer of grit to the top of the compost, this helps to keep moisture in and reduces weed seedlings growing on the surface.</div>
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<i><b>TIP -</b> When selecting Plants from a Garden Centre <u>ALWAYS</u> check them over for any signs of Pests, Damage or Grey Mould. Also, tip the plant out of the container to check for healthy root growth and that there isn't any sign of Vine Weevil (see page tab 'Plant Pests for more info). </i><i>If the plant you like is showing signs of these then it's best not to buy it at that moment in time.</i></div>
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<i>The last thing you want is to introduce any pests or diseases to your garden which will not only reduce the quality of your new plant, often resulting in poor quality of growth and/or death. But they could also affect plants that you already have in your garden.</i></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wmf4Bz0ERFo/XhWxQY5V15I/AAAAAAAAucI/lRKRE6TF5kYXqHaJQExw-evRKV8y_2bQgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/jurys_yellow_resized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wmf4Bz0ERFo/XhWxQY5V15I/AAAAAAAAucI/lRKRE6TF5kYXqHaJQExw-evRKV8y_2bQgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/jurys_yellow_resized.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Photo of the Camellia Flower taken from the internet, I can't wait for the first one to bloom on the plant I purchased!</div>
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Thanks for stopping by,</div>
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<b>HAPPY GARDENING!</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-26699510340830118902020-01-01T17:44:00.000+00:002020-01-01T17:44:39.462+00:00A Warm Welcome Back!<div style="text-align: center;">
Hello!</div>
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It's been almost 2 years since I last posted on this blog, unfortunately time got in the way of things but here's hoping this year I can find more time to write on here. Fingers crossed there's still someone that would like to read these posts! </div>
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It's New Years Day so it seemed the perfect time to get this blog going again ...</div>
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So, what do I have to share with you all? Well there was a little glimpse of Sunshine this morning for a few hours so I made the most of having the day off work and decided to take some photo's of the plants in my garden that are currently grabbing my attention ...</div>
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<b>HELLEBORES</b><br />One of my favourite plants and they're invaluable in the garden during the Winter months. These are just starting to produce their flowers and it's always exciting waiting for their buds to burst open.</div>
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I have quite a few varieties in Pots and the Borders, the one's in the ground are the first to get going but the Pots are slowly waiting in the wings ...</div>
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<i><b>TIP -</b> Removed old foliage along with any that has black markings, this will reduce the spread of 'Blackspot' and also show off the emerging flowers more.</i></div>
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<b>FOXGLOVES</b></div>
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Last year is sowed some Foxgloves, Digitalis 'Apricot', which were potted on into 2 litre pots. </div>
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They are currently sitting on a table and will be planted out in the Spring. </div>
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They were given a dusting of Frost this morning ...</div>
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<b>SARCOCOCCA CONFUSA (CHRISTMAS BOX)</b></div>
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A Winter - Flowering Shrub that provides everygreen interest all year round, however at this time of year is when it really performs. It produces tiny white Flowers and black Berries, however don't let the size of the flowers confuse you ... the perfume is extremely strong and I can smell it a few metres away from where it's planted in a border near a bird bath. A welcome surprise when walking past! This shrub is about 5 years old and rather large however I also have a smaller version of it in a pot by the front door. That way I can smell the perfume when I go to and return from work!</div>
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<b>PENSTEMON</b></div>
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Finally even though we've had Winter Weather and cold temperatures one of the Penstemons is still producing flowers. Not something you'd usually expect to see on New Year's Day!</div>
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Well I hope you've enjoyed today's post, I'l be back when I have more photo's along with sharing what I will be growing throughout the year ... here's to 2020!</div>
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<b>HAPPY GARDENING!</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-17663499419704892842017-02-27T07:00:00.000+00:002017-02-27T07:00:12.347+00:00February Favourite's<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Good Morning!</div>
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Today's post is all about what has pleased me the most in my garden this month and it's a clear winner ... the flowering <i>Iris reticulata</i> in my Greenhouse!</div>
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Briefly describing these are early flowering bulbous perennials with narrow leaves alongside erect stems that hold the flowers. The flowering time can start in late Winter, Spring and early Summer. <i>Iris reticulata</i> reach up to 15cm high with a light fragrance, they are happy in a sunny position and will cope on most soils as long as it is well drained. </div>
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Please note that these are deciduous which means that they will die back then reappear when they start back into growth the following year.</div>
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The varieties that I currently have growing are ...</div>
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<i>Iris reticulata </i>'Alida'</div>
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<i>Iris reticulata </i>'Natascha'</div>
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<i>Iris reticulata</i></div>
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I always enjoy having a few pots of these in Greenhouse as they bring some welcome pops of colour at this time of year, especially on those grey dreary days! After flowering I will plant them out into the borders of the garden adding extra interest there along with freeing up the pots for something else.</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-71135581659065146982017-02-16T07:00:00.000+00:002017-02-16T12:12:37.663+00:00Winter Blooms ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Over the past fortnight we've been graced with the appearance of some of my favourite blooms. The sight of these lovelies makes it known that Spring is around the corner, my favourite season!</div>
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Today I wanted to share with you a couple of photographs ...</div>
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Snowdrops pushing though the cover of <i>Heuchera</i> 'Black Knight'</div>
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If you've got Snowdrops in your own garden why not turn one of the heads over gently and take a look at the petals close up? This particular Snowdrop is <i>Galanthus</i> 'Flore Pleno'</div>
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The Hellebores are slowly starting to wake up, the following two have been in bloom for the past week with the rest in the garden patiently waiting in the wings ...</div>
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<i>Helleborus</i> Harvington Double White Speckled</div>
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<i>Helleborus</i> Blue Metallic Lady</div>
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A classic plant for this time of year is the Primrose, I have a few planted up in pots that add a great splash of colour, my favourite's are the simple white's.</div>
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Lastly another plant in flower is my Clematis <i>'Winter Beauty'</i>, unfortunately there's only a couple of flowers this year due to the resident garden birds nipping the buds off as they were forming ...</div>
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Thanks for taking a look, when the rest of the Hellebores come into bloom I shall share some more photographs to share with you all.</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-84464730536243204502017-02-12T08:00:00.000+00:002017-02-12T08:00:28.583+00:00February's Garden Checklist ...<div style="text-align: center;">
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Good Morning!</div>
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The daylight hours are getting longer and there are a few things you can be doing in the garden right now ...</div>
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<b>1. Cut Back -</b> It's time to do a little bit of tidying up by cutting back a few faded stems! Plants such as Sedums can have their old flowering stems cut back to the base, along with them any ornamental Grasses that have been left standing over the winter months can be cut back before the new shoots appear. You could also divide congested clumps to produce new plants for yourself!<br />
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<b>2. Transplant -</b> Now is a good time to transplant any deciduous plants whilst they are dormant. For example if you've planted something in the wrong place or too close to another plant then now is your chance to get that sorted.</div>
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<b>3. Late-Summer Flowering Clematis -</b> If you have a late-summer flowering clematis in your garden give it a prune when you get a moment. Cut all stems back to healthy buds about 30cm from the base.</div>
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<b>4. Winter Pruning - </b>Keeping on the subject of pruning it's time to finish any winter pruning of your fruit and soft fruit trees by the end of the month.</div>
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<b>5. First Early Potatoes - </b>If your planning on growing some first early potatoes this year then it's time get them started! All you need to do is place the tubers into a tray or an egg box in a bright, frost free place to chit.</div>
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<b>6. Feed -</b> Give Fruit Trees and Bushes a little boost by sprinkling sulphate of potash around the base which will encourage fruiting.</div>
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<b>7. Seed Sowing</b> - You can get Sweet Peas started this month by sowing them into deep pots, 3 seeds to a 9cm pots or even singly in toilet roll inserts. Keep them frost free in a Greenhouse or if you don't have one simply place them on a bright, sunny windowsill. Alternatively if you sowed some back in Autumn then now is the time to pot on and pinch out the seedlings.</div>
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Along with these you can some other seeds started such as Antirrhinums and Lobelia, if you have a heated Propagator you could also get your Tomatoes & Chilli's going!</div>
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<b>8. Weather -</b> The weather can be pretty varied at this time of year and I've already had a few snowy spells where I live. If you get any heavy snowfall make sure that you knock it off any shrubs, trees and hedges to prevent it causing damage to branches. Wind and Frost can also cause some damage by lifting and loosening plants, make sure that you firm them back in and keep an eye out after any bad spells.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by, don't forget you can find all the previous Checklists on the page tab above.</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-41905618566048601472017-01-13T07:30:00.000+00:002017-01-13T07:30:10.760+00:00Plant of the Month<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Morning!<br />
I hope you have all enjoyed the festivities over the past few weeks and are embracing the New Year!<br />
The garden always seems to give a renewed enthusiasm at this time of year (well in my case at least) as you can finally start looking towards to the growing year ahead! After taking a back seat in regards to the garden over the past month or so I'm hoping to get back into the groove whenever I have a spare hour to two.<br />
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Today I thought I'd start us all off by bringing back the <b>PLANT OF THE MONTH</b> feature.<br />
The <b>PLANT OF THE MONTH</b> that I've chosen for January is ...<b> </b></div>
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<b style="font-style: italic;">Sarcococca confusa </b>also known as<b style="font-style: italic;"> </b><b>'Sweet Box'</b><br />
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<i>Photo from crocus</i><br />
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<b><i>Sarcococca confusa</i> </b>is a Hardy Evergreen Shrub which throughout most of the year tends to provide structure more than interest with it's simple green, glossy leaves. However don't let this put you off, it really does come into it's own at this time of year and thoroughly earns it's self a place in any garden!<br />
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This particular shrub can grow up to 2m with an equal width, do be aware it can take between 5 and 10 years to do so.<br />
However it is also one of those plants that is perfectly happy in either partial or full shade which can be problem areas in our gardens for some people, this gains it even more brownie points in my opinion!<br />
<b>This plant is also ideal in low maintenance gardens for those that don't always have the time to garden.</b><br />
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At this time of year it's stand out feature is it's perfume! Trust me when I say that you can smell it from a couple of metres away, maybe more so if there's a slight breeze. The sweet scent comes from it's tiny white flowers which can only really be seen when you're close up. These flowers are followed by glossy black berries which can remain on the plant until the following winter. The flowering period spans from December to March so your guaranteed more than just a fleeting display!<br />
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<i>Photos from my garden</i><br />
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<b>CULTIVATION </b></div>
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As mentioned earlier this Hardy Evergreen Shrub is happy to be planted in either partial or full shade. It can be situated facing any aspect but would prefer a slightly sheltered position in any soil type that is moist but well-drained. In Winter or Spring you can gently prune the shrub to keep it in an ideal shape and then mulch around the base with well-rotted compost.<br />
If you'd like to produce extra plants for yourself it can be propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings in late Summer or by seed sown in outdoor containers in Spring or Autumn.<br />
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Generally pest and disease free.</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-36834965856935230312016-12-16T11:03:00.000+00:002016-12-16T11:03:39.580+00:00December's Garden Checklist ...<div style="text-align: center;">
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Good Morning!</div>
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The days may be grey and chilly but if you're still itching for stuff to do in the garden here are a few things that you can be doing over the coming weeks.</div>
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<b>1. Brassicas -</b> If like me you are growing Brassicas such as Cabbages make sure that you remove any yellowing leaves to prevent fungal diseases taking hold of the plants. Also if your garden is prone to visits from hungry pigeons cover the vegetable bed with netting to keep them off!<br />If you are growing Brussels Sprouts make sure that they are supported simply by attaching them to a bamboo cane to prevent them toppling over in strong winds.<br />
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<b>2. Vegetable Plots -</b> Carrying on with the subject of vegetable plots now is a good time to clear away any old crops and debris from your plots, composting only the healthy material.<br />Once this is done you can sit and plan what crops you would like to grow and where in 2017 then begin ordering your seeds!<br />Along with maintaining your veg plots now is also a good time to plant fruit trees as long as the ground isn't frozen or waterlogged. Why not try planting some espalier fruit trees on your veg area to make use of limited space? Now is also the time to do a little bit of winter pruning on your Apple trees by removing any crossing, dead or diseased branches,</div>
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<b>3. Soft Fruit -</b> Soft fruit such as Raspberries and Blackberries will benefit from a tidy up around the bases of the plants by removing all weeds and mulching with a layer of compost. Why not include some new plants to your garden too?</div>
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<b>4. Terracotta Pots - </b>Most gardeners will have terracotta pots that aren't frost proof and will need some protection from the winter weather. This can be done by simply bringing your pots under cover into a Greenhouse or Shed or if this can't be done by wrapping them up with bubblewrap. </div>
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<b><i>The pots can crack in freezing weather if not protected properly.</i></b></div>
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<b>5. Fallen Leaves - </b>Along with collecting fallen leaves for Leaf mould, there are other reasons why they should be gathered up. </div>
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Fallen leaves that are left in place can not only become a cosy place for slugs and pests to congregate but if left on lawns or over plants they will damage what is growing beneath.</div>
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<b>6. Planting -</b> Along with planting fruit like suggested above there are other ornamental plants that will benefit from being planted at the time of year. Bare root Roses, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs can all be planted as long as the ground isn't water logged or frozen.</div>
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<b>7.Plants Under Cover</b> - If like me you are keeping some plants going through these winter months under cover in a Greenhouse or heated conservatory they will need checking on. </div>
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Make sure that you check them regularly for signs of any over wintering pests such as Red Spider Mite or Aphids on both sides of the foliage and the surface of the compost. Remove straight away if spotted. Yellowing leaves and faded flowers will also need removing right away to prevent Botrytis. Try not to over water the plants too as doing so can also cause problems.</div>
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<i>Pelargoniums</i> need overwintering in a Greenhouse</div>
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<b>8. Autumn Sown Sweet Peas -</b> If you sowed some Sweet Peas back in Autumn they should be putting on growth by now. Make sure that you pinch out the growing tips on the plants as this will encourage bushier growth which is exactly what you want!</div>
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<b>9. Greenhouse Temperatures </b>- If you have a variety of plants over wintering in your Greenhouse make sure that you make a note of the lowest temperate that they can cope with. Most plants will start to suffer when temperatures dip below 0c and will therefore benefit from a little heat. This can be resolved simply by running a heater overnight when low temperatures are forecast and a max / min thermometer inside the Greenhouse is a great way to check that the correct temps are being maintained. </div>
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On the flip side of this temperatures can soar on days where bright sunshine and blue skies are forecast, especially if you don't open any doors or windows! Make sure that you always open them during the day when this weather is forecast (and also for a couple of hours at midday on the days that it isn't) to allow for fresh air to circulate inside and to prevent any fungal diseases taking hold!</div>
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<b>9. Garden Birds -</b> Don't forget that garden birds need a little bit of extra help during these colder months too! </div>
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Make sure that you keep a fresh supply of water outside for them (this can be as simple as filling up a gravel tray) and making sure that it doesn't freeze over. Try to keep a constant supply of seeds in any feeders, washing out frequently to prevent any diseases harbouring as this could do serious harm. </div>
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Ground feeder Trays are another good way to feed birds such as Robins which don't like to use hanging feeders, just make sure that you bring the trays inside at night to prevent rats being attracted to the seeds.</div>
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<b><i>Fat balls are also great for them at this time of year but please avoid those that are wrapped in netting or inside stretchy rubber holders as birds can become tangled in these, leading to death.</i></b></div>
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<b>10. Garden Equipment</b> - Finally don't forget to bring inside any hosepipes or garden furniture that could crack and split in freezing temperatures, provide some insulation to your garden tap too otherwise you run the risk of damaging a pipe.<br />Now is also the perfect chance to clear out any garden sheds and clean up your garden tools if you haven't done so already!</div>
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Thanks for stopping by, don't forget you can find all the previous Checklists on the page tab above.</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-16845647763536494202016-11-16T07:00:00.000+00:002016-11-16T07:00:02.671+00:00November's Garden Checklist ...<div style="text-align: center;">
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Good Morning!</div>
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We're halfway through November already so here are some jobs that you can be getting on with in the garden over the next few weeks ...</div>
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<b>1. Tulips -</b> November is the ideal time to plant Tulips!<br />
It's recommended that you plant them no earlier than this month due to the risk of the bulbs developing a particular disease called '<i><b>Tulip Fire</b></i>'.<br />
For those unaware this is a fungal disease which results in the plants developing twisted and distorted leaves with brown spots.<br />
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When planting Tulips first check that the ones you buy don't have any signs of mould / damage and aren't too small as this can affect flowering ability in the first year.<br />
Plant them atleast twice the size of the bulb apart and two to three times it's own depth. If planting in pots the bulbs can be closer together but make sure that they aren't touching and are three times their own depth.<br />
Also if there are any other Spring Bulbs that you haven't had the chance to plant yet then why not get them in the ground at the same time!<br />
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<b>2. Buddleja - </b>Over the Summer months Buddleja's can put on lots of growth and Autumn & Spring is the ideal time to give them a cut back. </div>
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I like to reduce my plant by a third in November and then by another third in the Spring. It may seem drastic but by reducing it's height it helps keep it in control and you can remove any dead or diseased branches. Flowers also are only usually produced on the end of current seasons growth so if your plant is left to it's own devices all the flowers will be at the top! </div>
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Pruning Buddleja's also reduces it's chances of self seeding for those of you that don't want any more plants popping in around the garden!</div>
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<b>3. Dahlia's -</b> By now most of us in the UK will have been hit by our first hard frost, ours was last week! If you still have Dahlia's in the ground a sure sign that they've been hit by a frost is that the foliage will have been blackened. If you live in an area of the UK with a slightly warmer climate and well - drained soil then you might be able to get away with leaving the tubers where they are with just a covering of mulch once cut down. </div>
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However if you live further North like myself now is the time to get them lifted! </div>
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If you are wanting to save some for next year cut the stems to 2inches from the base and trim away any thin roots. Lift the tubers from the soil using a fork being careful not to cause any damage. Remove soil from the tuber by hand and store them somewhere cool and dry upside down for a couple of weeks, this allows excess moisture to drain away. Once dry make sure you label your tubers with the variety names and store in a tray or wooden box covered with dry sand or compost leaving only the old flower stalks above the surface. keep them in a cool but frost free space until next year.</div>
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Dahlia <i>'Cafe Au Lait'</i></div>
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<b>4. Plan - </b>Plant companies are sending out their catalogues for next year which is the perfect oppertunity to start planning what you'd like to grow! It's also a good way of still being involved with the garden if you can't actually get outside to be in it due to the weather. It's always a good idea to make a list of what you'd like to grow such as old favourites and new varieties to try for the first time.</div>
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<b>5. Leaf Mould - </b>You can find a fuller description of Leaf Mould in the October Checklist but you can still carry on collecting leaves for it throughout this month. It really is worth doing!</div>
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<b>6. Bare Root -</b> Whilst the soil is still warm November is a great chance to get bare root plants in the ground and established over the winter. Bareroot plants are often cheaper to buy than containerised plants which is another advantage! Roses, Hedging, Fruit and Trees can all be bought in this form.</div>
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Rose 'Champagne Moment'</div>
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<b>7.Hardwood Cuttings</b> - This time of year is perfect for taking Hardwood Cuttings of plants such as Climbers, Fruit and Shrubs. You can take this particular form of cuttings between now and late winter aslong as it isn't during a severe frost. For a detailed explanation of how to take these cuttings simply click this link <b><a href="https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=387">HERE</a></b> to go to the RHS website.</div>
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<b>8. Weeds -</b> It's one of the least enjoyable jobs but it really is a good idea to get on top of weeds before they become established. </div>
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<b>9. Soil </b>- Soil needs a little help at this time of year to keep your plants performing to their best. After you've done some weeding dig in some Leaf Mould or well rotted Garden Compost into your garden borders. You can also apply a 'Mulch' of the above or Composted Bark to the surface of the soil which is atleast 2 to 3 inches thick, be careful not to pile the mulch up against the stems of plants.</div>
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<b>10. Displays</b> - Finally why not brighten up a corner with a colourful planting display? </div>
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Here I have made a quick and simple display using two different coloured Cyclamen which will sit next at my front door.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by, don't forget you can find all the previous Checklists on the page tab above.</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-42476954111388132272016-11-03T07:30:00.000+00:002016-11-03T07:30:00.166+00:00October's Plant of the Month!<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Morning!<br />
I know this is a little later than it should be, time is something I've had very little of recently!<br />
Anyway without any further delay here it is!<br />
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The <b>PLANT OF THE MONTH</b> for October is ...<b> <i>Salvia greggii </i>'Royal Bumble'</b><br />
I've chosen this plant for October even though it has been flowering for a couple of months beforehand for one simple reason ... it's been the main performer in my garden when everything else has took a step back. We haven't had the best growing season this year so it's shown which plants are the star performers!<br />
Oh and do you want to know what makes them even better ... this plant and the one behind were actually grown from cuttings that I'd taken two years ago.<br />
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<b><i>Salvia greggii </i>'Royal Bumble' </b>is a Hardy Perennial which has a slightly scented green foliage and bright red flowers held on stems touched with purple.<br />
This particular variety of Salvia is tolerant of coastal conditions which makes it a good plant if you garden in windy conditions. Once estabished this plant is also tolerant of drought conditions!<br />
It does prefer a position in sun but it can cope with dappled shade, the other plant that I have of this variety in my back garden is in a slightly shady position and is doing just fine :)<br />
One last thing that makes this plant even better ... it's also loved by Bee's!<br />
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<i>Photos from the border in my front garden</i></div>
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<b>CULTIVATION </b></div>
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This particular variety is a Hardy Perennial, happy in well drained soil types and aspects in either full sun or partial shade.<br />
This plant will grow approx 60x40cm tall which is great for a border, to prolong flowering dead head the faded flower stems throughout the summer months.<br />
In Spring apply a generous mulch around the base of the plant approx 5-7cm deep of well - rotted garden compost or manure.<br />
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This plant can be propagated by cuttings which is a great way of giving yourself free plants!</div>
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<i>Photo from Crocus</i><br />
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-82762426566078515692016-10-12T07:30:00.000+01:002016-10-12T07:30:10.338+01:00October Garden Checklist ...<div style="text-align: center;">
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Good Morning!</div>
I've decided to change the weekly checklists into a monthly version,<br />
that way you can spread out what needs doing over the month!<br />
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<b>1. Spring Bulb - </b>During September - November is the time to get your Spring bulbs sown.<br />
Whether it's direct into the ground or into pots it's time to get sowing! If you have some bulbs left over and you don't think you have any space for them simply plant them up into 9cm pots which can then be used to fill any gaps or containers next spring if a space comes up! If not you can simply give them away to friends and family as gifts.<br />
The general rule of thumb is to plant bulbs at a depth of two times their size.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jparkers.co.uk/50-iris-reticulata-alida-1012985c"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SAS-n2ajGn4/V_yve2l_1qI/AAAAAAAArGA/_ht5lJQwq0g4gFqKYa0ew_Qu2lEu4W0GACLcB/s320/Untitled.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<i>Iris reticulata</i> 'Alida'<br />
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<b>2. Indoor Bulbs - </b>Carrying on with the theme of bulbs why not try some indoor bulbs this year? Bulbs such as Amaryllis and Indoor Narcissus are perfect for this! When planting Amaryllis use either John Innes no.2 or Multi-Purpose Compost in a container only just slightly larger than the bulb, keeping 2 thirds of the bulb above the surface. Keep in a well - lit warm place and water sparingly until the leaves appear, turning regularly to allow even light levels.</div>
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When planting Narcissus bulbs plant them just below the soil surface.</div>
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<i>Amaryllis</i> 'Apricot Parfait' & <i>Narcissus</i> 'Erlicheer'</div>
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<b>3. Greenhouse -</b> With the cooler weather approaching it's time to give the Greenhouse a good clean! Many tender plants won't survive the winter months so the greenhouse is the perfect place to keep them ticking over! To prevent any Pests and Diseases from Summer sticking around you need to remove all the plants and equipment from the inside and give everything, including the glass and good clean with a scrubbing brush and warm soapy water. Make sure that you get rid of any old compost and clean pots and trays as these can harbour any pests and diseases too. </div>
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When bring plants under cover make sure that you check them over for signs of any Pests and Diseases too so that you don't end up bringing them back in! With most problems you can simply remove affected parts and squish any nasties.</div>
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Once clean you can put up specialised bubble insulation to help keep the greenhouse that couple of degrees warmer which is important if you have plants that are at risk if exposed to certain low temperatures. Once you've finished don't forget to wash the outside of the greenhouse to allow for maximum light levels over winter! </div>
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I know it may seem like a lot to do but if you have certain plants that you really don't want to lose then trust me it's worth doing.</div>
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<b>4. Autumn / Winter Displays - </b>If you haven't thought about them yet then why not plant up some Autumn / Winter displays into pots and baskets? It's a great way of adding a pop of colour over the coming months. I've planted up some baskets with a mix of Perennials and Annuals and a couple with just one permanent plant as I felt the foliage deserved all the attention!</div>
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<i>Coprosma</i> 'Pina Colada' </div>
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<b>5. Leaf Mould - </b>Leaf mould is one of those things that you can't get enough of! It's perfect for digging into borders a soil conditioner or as a mulch and is extremely beneficial! The only things is that you can't buy it ... you have to make it yourself. </div>
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All you have to do is gather up the fallen leaves in your garden and designate a corner somewhere for it to break down. This can be done simply by creating a bin out of plastic / windbreak netting held into place by 4 bamboo canes, or you can bag it up into specifically designed sacks or at the very least a black binbag pierced with a few holes!</div>
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Simply add the fallen leaves to whatever you'd prefer to use, water each layer in then leave to break down, this can take up to 1 - 2 years but once you start doing it each year you'll have some ready to use all year round.</div>
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<b>5. Lawn Care -</b> If your lawn is looking a little worse for wear after summer then now is the time treat it with an Autumn feed.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by, don't forget you can find all the previous Checklists on the page tab above.</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-87094283062094767752016-09-22T09:46:00.000+01:002016-09-22T09:46:34.037+01:00Harrogate Autumn Flower Show ... Part 2!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Good Morning!</div>
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You may have noticed earlier this morning that this post went live with nothing in it! I thought I'd already typed it up but apparently not ... so here it is, better late than never lol</div>
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Here are the rest of my favourite photographs from last Saturdays visit to Harrogate Autumn Flower Show ... I wish I could go back and do it all again, roll on the Spring show !!!</div>
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First up is this statement plant which caught my attention straight away, </div>
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I love the towering spikes and dark foliage.</div>
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<i>Actaea simplex</i> 'Brunette'</div>
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Following on with the theme of dark foliage is this lovely brown grass. Grasses are perfect for filling gaps in a garden, providing structure and contrasting leaf shape to flowers. </div>
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They're also great for using in containers and hanging baskets!</div>
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The flowers and fruits on this <i>Euonymous phellomanus</i> (Spindle Tree) look fantastic.</div>
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Speaking of flowers this <i>Gladiolus murielae</i> is definitely one for the wish list!</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W5hiZqcRHfQ/V-OOguCliKI/AAAAAAAAq9E/aYFfOvwgfPEjml_CW_mr1_aggbG0-cEvACLcB/s1600/DSC04863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W5hiZqcRHfQ/V-OOguCliKI/AAAAAAAAq9E/aYFfOvwgfPEjml_CW_mr1_aggbG0-cEvACLcB/s640/DSC04863.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Heucheras are definitely plants that have had to grow on me over the past couple of years, when I first started gardening I wasn't a fan but now I can't get enough of them! </div>
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With such a variety of colours they're perfect for adding colour to a garden when there isn't much else going on and they're relatively easy to look after ... just keep an eye out for vine weevil!</div>
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This display of Hardy plants was one of my favourites simply for its naturalistic look.</div>
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Fuchsias aren't really a plant that I collect many of but the following variety may have to be purchased, the salmon spiky flowers are different to the usual blooms that you see.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i10HVT_JhhI/V-ORV4z0PtI/AAAAAAAAq9g/TxkNVWZ0rO4yPRAFuYzeLw1NeXB7CBTJgCLcB/s1600/DSC04867.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="561" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i10HVT_JhhI/V-ORV4z0PtI/AAAAAAAAq9g/TxkNVWZ0rO4yPRAFuYzeLw1NeXB7CBTJgCLcB/s640/DSC04867.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Apart from the Clematis growing on my shed I haven't had much luck growing them, powdery mildew has always been a bit of an issue later in the growing season. However the blooms on the following variety are so teeny and delicate that it might be worth giving this one a go!</div>
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<i>Clematis</i> 'Fascination'</div>
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The colours on this Carnation were a muted mix of pink and green which contrast to what another onlooker described as 'mucky' I think makes them much more decorative, specially in a vase!</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-54rF_YnySDQ/V-OSHE0H52I/AAAAAAAAq9w/OsX-j_9DroAN77bFkTKNjy2fzRSrIdWtQCLcB/s1600/DSC04876.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-54rF_YnySDQ/V-OSHE0H52I/AAAAAAAAq9w/OsX-j_9DroAN77bFkTKNjy2fzRSrIdWtQCLcB/s640/DSC04876.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Outside the Plant Pavillion were more plant stalls including these two displays of a Dog and Witch's Hat decorated with Sempervivums! Definitely worth the effort!</div>
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Of course I couldn't forget the Veg, the decoration on these pods I think makes them worth growing just for decoration.</div>
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Finally you're probably wondering what I ended up buying? Well I was actually rather well behaved and only came away with a couple of Heucheras 'Brass Lantern' & 'Sugar Frosting' and my first Orchid, Phalaenopsis 'Mini Mark'. </div>
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Although I may end up ordering a few of the plants photographed when I have the pennies!</div>
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Thanks for stopping by,</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-10407510979692634182016-09-19T07:00:00.000+01:002016-09-22T09:46:41.902+01:00Harrogate Autumn Flower Show ... Part 1!<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Morning!</div>
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It's been a little while since I last posted, I hope you've all enjoyed the recent weather and are keeping up with the jobs mentioned in my previous post. I've spent the majority of the month simply dead-heading, watering and composting annuals past their best. </div>
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The cabbages sown a few weeks ago are still sat in their trays in the hardening off stage and some winter pansies that I purchased a few weeks ago were potted on and are currently growing on, these will be put in some more hanging baskets once the summer baskets have past their best.</div>
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Back to the main subject of today's post and it's all about the Harrogate Autumn Flower Show!</div>
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Living in Yorkshire this is the only plant show that I can realistically get to and back in Spring it was the first time I went to it. I couldn't wait for the Autumn one which was on last Saturday and of course I took my camera!</div>
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Here are some photo's of the plants that caught my eye ... there's quite a lot!</div>
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<i>Alstroemeria psittacina</i></div>
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I'm not usually a fan of begonia's but the spiky foliage on the following plants caught my eye.</div>
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<i>Begonia</i> 'Raspberry Swirl' & <i>Begonia benichoma</i></div>
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I loved the green colour scheme of these Chrysanthemums and the fact that the blooms are slightly understated.</div>
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Next to the Chrysanthemums was this amazing stand of Hippeastrum and Alliums ...</div>
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This stand showcasing Houseplants certainly made me realise I need to add to my collection!</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dxXsPTQpVAQ/V97qD-BxSKI/AAAAAAAAq6k/Gcf7orU4ZQkmqUvfZABJh5nfE6_CWu8bQCLcB/s1600/DSC04849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dxXsPTQpVAQ/V97qD-BxSKI/AAAAAAAAq6k/Gcf7orU4ZQkmqUvfZABJh5nfE6_CWu8bQCLcB/s640/DSC04849.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Another plant that I wasn't overly fond of before this visit are Echinaceas but the following two varieties have certainly tempted me ...</div>
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This last set of plants caught my attention for having rather unusual flowers ...</div>
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<i>Fascicularia bicolour</i></div>
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<i>Tricyrtis formosana Stolonifera</i></div>
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Well that's it for today, I shall share the rest of the photo's with you soon!</div>
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I hope you've liked what you've seen so far ...</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-2175760852302424712016-09-02T07:30:00.000+01:002016-09-02T07:30:12.005+01:00Garden Checklist ...<div style="text-align: center;">
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Good Morning!</div>
I can't believe September has reached us already, this year has flown by!<br />
As for the Summer ... well the thing that we called Summer past us in a blink!<br />
There are however a few things that you can still be getting on with in the garden right now ...<br />
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<b>1. Hedges - </b>Now that fledglings will have left their nests it's time to trim any hedges that need doing! It's not perfect but the one in our garden has been neatened up and at long last it no longer resembles a spiky hairdo from the early 2000's!<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FFx0VkKDD18/V8iR8cU8fJI/AAAAAAAAquI/czikccSEua09-hV8GDObwOOLSjTJP2tRACLcB/s1600/DSC04484%2B-%2BCopy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FFx0VkKDD18/V8iR8cU8fJI/AAAAAAAAquI/czikccSEua09-hV8GDObwOOLSjTJP2tRACLcB/s640/DSC04484%2B-%2BCopy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>2. Raspberries - </b>If you have Raspberries in your garden then now is the time to do a little bit of pruning! </div>
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If you are growing Summer fruiting varieties then prune out the canes which bore fruit this year as they fruit on the previous years growth. </div>
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One way of telling which is what is that if you prune at this time of year the canes you need to get rid of will be a brown colour, this years growth will still be green.<br />Cut out all the old canes and try to leave each plant with 4 - 5 of the healthiest, strongest looking canes.</div>
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Autumn fruiting varieties however fruit on the current years growth which means you can cut them all down later on towards the end the year.</div>
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<b>3. Hanging Baskets -</b> If like me you have some Hanging Baskets looking past their best, why not give them a spruce up for the coming months! </div>
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Below I have kept the conifers in my driveway baskets but replaced everything else with ...</div>
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<i>- </i><i>Heuchera</i> 'Obsidian'</div>
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- <i>Brachyglottis</i> 'Greyi' for the silver foliage </div>
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<i>- Festuca glauca</i> 'Elijah Blue'</div>
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along with some Winter Pansies for some little pops of colour.</div>
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(I will also add some Spring bulbs to the basket once I have purchased them)</div>
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<b>4. Spring Bulbs - </b>Now is the time to get ordering those Spring bulbs and the sooner you do it the better! The first reason being that the bulbs will be of a better quality compared to those left sitting around for a few months ... the second reason being that you have more choice before the favourite's are snapped up and end up going out of stock.</div>
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Here's a little look of some that are on my list to buy so far ... it soon adds up but it's worth it!</div>
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<b>5. Deadheading - </b>I know I mention this in every checklist but please make sure that you keep up with the deadheading to prolong the flowering of your favourite plants! </div>
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As you can see below in the photograph the bloom on the left needs to be removed (simply cut back the flower stalk to where it reaches the stem) and it won't be just you enjoying more blooms ...</div>
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Thanks for stopping by, don't forget you can find all the previous Checklists on the page tab above.</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-59218232456011133772016-08-30T07:30:00.000+01:002016-08-30T07:30:01.968+01:00August's Plant of the Month!<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Morning!</div>
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The <b>PLANT OF THE MONTH</b> for August is ...<b> <i>Penstemon </i>'Raven'</b><br />
Penstemons are one of the easiest plants to grow and are great for a gap in the border that needs filling quickly! Flowering from June to first frosts they are one of the best performers in a garden and are rarely victim to attacks from slugs and snails.<br />
They are also a great plant for anyone that is a beginner to taking cuttings!<br />
There are a range of varieties but the one that I have chosen for today and that is also in my garden is called 'Raven'.<br />
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Photo from Crocus</div>
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Photo from my garden (You can also see the white variety growing alongside)</div>
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<b>CULTIVATION </b></div>
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This particular variety is semi evergreen, happy in most soil types and aspects in either full sun or partial shade.<br />
This plant will grow 50-100cm tall which is great for a border. This plant is clump forming and the flowers are similar to those of a foxglove which will flower from June right up until the first frosts. To make sure that flowering is continuous make sure that you deadhead once each flower spike has finished.<br />
During the winter months it is best to leave the plants foliage intact and give it a dry mulch to protect the crown and roots. In Spring once you can see new shoots emerging you can cut the original stems down to the base to promote a fresh flush of growth.<br />
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This plant can be propagated in the Spring time by division, softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-hardwood cuttings in midsummer.<br />I took some cuttings myself on the 10th of July and they were ready to be potted on into individual 9cm pots yesterday ...<br />
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<b>PROBLEMS</b></div>
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Generally disease free, can be prone to attacks from pests but usually pest free.</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-38901727683694066722016-08-14T07:30:00.000+01:002016-08-14T07:30:06.019+01:00Garden Checklist ...<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Morning!<br />
Yet again it's been a while since I've posted here, due to work or feeling unwell I just haven't had the time to sit down let alone venture out into the garden!<br />Here's hoping that changes soon and here are a few suggestions of what you can be getting on with in the garden today ...<br />
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<b>1. Tomatoes - </b>Your Tomato plants should've reached a height that you're happy with and setting plenty of fruits by now. To help focus the plant's energy on the fruits trim away any foliage restricting light to the ripening fruits, you can be pretty drastic with this but make sure that you leave some foliage on the plant. Continue giving them a weekly feed and you should be feasting on your tomatoes in no time! </div>
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<b>2. Wildlife - </b>If like me you also like to look after the local wildlife in your garden make sure that you clean any bird baths regularly and maintain that water levels are always topped up. It can soon evaporate in hot weather! </div>
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I also like to give bird feeders a good wash out when they need filling up to make sure that they are kept disease free and in a good condition for the birds.</div>
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<b>3. Collect Seeds -</b> If there are any plants that you've been particularly impressed with this year in the garden and you'd like more of next year then now is the time to start thinking about collecting seeds! </div>
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Plants such as Foxgloves will be setting their seeds now and the seed can be sown as soon as collected in preparation for plants next year!</div>
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<b>4. Deadheading - </b>As always make sure that you keep up with the deadheading to prolong the flowering of your favourite Summer plants such as Dahlias, Pelargoniums and Basket Plants!</div>
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<b>5. Watering - </b>Keep up with the Watering, especially of pot plants. In hot weather plants may need a good drench daily to keep them happy and healthy.</div>
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<b>6. Paperwhite Narcissus -</b> If you want some Paperwhite Narcissus in flower this Christmas then it's time to start thinking about the bulbs and getting them potted up! The perfume can be love or hate but I think they make a great centrepiece for a table when in flower.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by, don't forget you can find all the previous Checklists on the page tab above.</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-67722093609952767202016-07-27T09:08:00.001+01:002016-07-27T09:13:05.987+01:00July's Plant of the Month!<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Morning!</div>
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Apologies for it being super quiet on this blog this month, the past couple of weeks have just been filled of following the recent checklist and constant watering due to the hot weather we've had recently!<br />
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The <b>PLANT OF THE MONTH</b> for July is ...<b> <i>Crocosmia 'Lucifer'</i></b><br />
<i>(</i>This plant may also be known as <i>Montbretia </i>'Lucifer')<br />
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<b>CULTIVATION </b></div>
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This plant is happy in most soil types as long as it is moist but well drained, it will thrive well in any aspect except for the North and is happy in either Full Sun or Partial Shade.<br />
<i>Crocosmia</i> 'Lucifer' can also cope with exposure to windy weather.<br />
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The total height and width for this plant is 0.1 - 0.5m which is great if you are wanting a little height in your borders at this time of year. 'Lucifer' forms clumps of narrow green leaf spikes along with spikes of funnel shaped flowers which flower from late July - September.<br />
This plant is a Hardy Deciduous Perennial so it will die back to ground level over the winter.<br />
Protection may be needed during particularly cold winters, simply cover the crown with a mulch to protect against Frost damage.<br />
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This plant can be propagated in the Spring time by dividing the forming clumps into smaller groups and re-planting just before the growth starts at a depth of approx 4inches.<br />
There is no need to prune this plant.<br />
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<b>PROBLEMS</b></div>
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<i>Crocosmia</i> 'Lucifer' is generally Disease free but may suffer attacks from the Glasshouse Red Spider Mite.</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-36201605876629924772016-07-08T09:56:00.000+01:002016-07-08T09:56:03.409+01:00Bumper Garden Checklist ...<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Morning!<br />
Are you looking for something to do in the garden this weekend?<br />
Well here's a few suggestions that should keep you busy ...<br />
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<b>1. Tomatoes - </b>If like me you are growing tomatoes make sure that you keep removing the side shoots produced on the Cordon varieties. Simply snap them off first thing in the morning to make sure the plant focuses all it's energy elsewhere. Your tomatoes should also be starting to set fruit so it's time to give them a weekly feed with either diluted tomato feed or liquid seaweed.</div>
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<b>2. Roses - </b>The weather has been rather variable over the past weeks and rain battered Roses are a frequent sight in my garden! Keep up with the deadheading and if you see any rose buds that haven't opened yet with brown outer petals, gently tease away them away in a downwards movement and your rose might just get the chance to bloom! If left more often than not the decaying brown petals prevent the bud from opening.</div>
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A Rose in the centre ready for dead-heading</div>
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<b>3. Sweet Peas -</b> Another plant that could do with a little care is the garden favourite Sweet Pea. </div>
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Give them a weekly feed and keep up with tying them in to the their supports. Pick flowers every few days and make sure you remove any seed pods once seen to prolong flowering. </div>
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Summer Bedding in Pots and Hanging Baskets will also benefit from a liquid feed once a week to keep encouraging blooms and healthy growth.</div>
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<b>4. Winter Cabbages - </b>If you sowed some winter cabbages last month such as January King into pots it's time to plant them out into their final positions. If like me you sowed them under cover gently acclimatise them to the outdoor positions by hardening them off over 7 - 10 days. Once this has been done plant them out with a distance of approx 50cm in a sunny position and provide protection from birds in the form of netting or fleece. You can also place a collar around the stems to protect from cabbage root fly.</div>
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<b>5. Bulbs - </b>It's time to start planting Autumn bulbs such as Nerines into Pots & Borders and whilst your doing so why not start thinking about the Spring Bulbs that you would like to have next year. Plant companies are starting to send out catalogues so if you know what you want it's best to order them now before they're out of stock! The same goes for Spring Bedding.</div>
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<b>6. Watering -</b> Even if it rains make sure you keep up with watering, some plants such as Celery, Beans, Peas, Tomatoes can be extremely thirsty and will suffer if they do not get adequate water.<br />Newly planted Shrubs, Tree's and Perennials this year will also benefit from extra watering to help them become established.</div>
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<b>7. Apples & Pears -</b> If the weather is warm and not too wet you can prune out any branches on Apple & Pear Tree's that may be crossing, damaged or diseased. </div>
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You can also thin out the apples on trees that may be malformed or damaged to encourage a healthier crop.</div>
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<b>8. Cuttings -</b> Plants such as Fuschias, Pelargoniums and other tender perennials can be tricky to over winter if you only have a small space. Why not take some cuttings now from your favourite plants? This way you only have to over winter a smaller plant reducing the amount of space needed. </div>
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Even if over wintering isn't something that you've considered cuttings are great for if you simply want more of a particular plant for free! Simply click <b><a href="http://ngcardsseedlings.blogspot.co.uk/search/label/Cuttings">HERE</a></b> for a variety of posts on Cuttings.</div>
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<b>9. Hedges </b>-If you have any Hedges or Confiers that are needing a trim then now is the time to do it, however always make sure that there are no nesting birds before starting.</div>
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<b>10. Ponds -</b> Finally if you have a garden pond keep on top of removing any blanketweed or algea. Make sure that you leave it on the edge of the pond for atleast 48hours afterwards so that any creatures within can make their way back into the pond or water feature.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by, don't forget you can find all the previous Checklists on the page tab above.</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-88798605092790136942016-07-03T09:36:00.001+01:002016-08-29T18:50:36.813+01:00June's Plant of the Month!<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Morning!</div>
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I know that we are technically in the month of July now so I am a tad late with this post, but as the saying goes better late than never! </div>
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The <b>PLANT OF THE MONTH</b> for June is or should I say was ...<b> <i>Salvia nemorosa</i> 'Caradonna'</b><br />
<b><br /></b><i>Salvia nemorosa</i> 'Caradonna' can also be known as the Balkan clary 'Caradonna' and this particular Salvia is a Hardy Perennial.<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Salvia's can be Annuals, Biennials, Herbaceous, Evergreen or even Shrubs!) </span><br />
As you can see from the photo of the plant that I have in my garden it has upright stems or 'racemes' of violet flowers which flower throughout the Summer months with a scented greyish green foliage.<br />
If you are someone that loves Bee's then this plant is a must for your garden!<br />
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<b>CULTIVATION </b></div>
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This plant is happy in most soil types as long as it is well drained, facing any aspect although it may struggle a little in a North facing position. Happy in either Full Sun or Partial Shade it can also cope with exposure to windy weather. Once established this plant becomes drought tolerant in a sunny position.<br />
The total height and width for this plant is 10-50cm which means it remains quite compact.<br />
However this plant is deciduous which means it will lose it leaves over winter.<br />
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In regards to upkeep all you need to do is give it a little mulch of well - rotted compost or manure in Spring and prune away any faded flower stems to prolong flowering throughout the Summer months.<br />
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<b>PROBLEMS</b></div>
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This plant is generally disease free but like most plants can suffer attacks from the usual culprits ... Slugs & Snails!</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-46190921237044399142016-06-25T10:43:00.000+01:002016-06-25T10:43:17.676+01:00June's Floral Favourite's ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Good Morning!</div>
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It's been a little while since I've had the chance to post on here so today I thought I'd share with you my favourite's from around the garden this month. </div>
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Right back at the start of the month the Hebe 'Pearl of Paradise' of which i'd grown from a cutting came into flower. Even though they only flower for a few weeks of the year the blooms on this variety are well worth the wait.</div>
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Geum 'Tangerine' has also been flowering prolifically throughout the month ...</div>
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slowly followed by Geum 'Cosmopolitan'</div>
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My David Austin Rose 'Princess Alexandra of Kent' has produced some lovely blooms with a perfume to match.</div>
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The new variety of Cosmos called 'Xanthos' has recently come into bloom the past fortnight, so far the flowers are sparing but they are lovely to look at.</div>
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One of my favourite plants that I like to grow as an Annual each year are Nemesia's. Along with the Vanilla White variety dotted around the garden in Pots and Baskets I have a pot of the variety 'Easter Bonnet' of which you can smell straight away when walking past. </div>
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The Hanging Baskets are slowly starting to fill out and establish themselves ...</div>
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Astrantias 'Rubra' and 'Buckland' have started coming into flower this past week ...</div>
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along with the Alstroemeria Inca Ice 'Koice' sitting outside the Greenhouse door ...</div>
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Finally followed by the first blooms from the Sweat Peas in the past 2 days.</div>
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Thanks for popping by, I hope you all get the chance to spend some time in your gardens this weekend!</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-51981245132815564702016-06-10T07:30:00.000+01:002016-06-10T07:30:10.252+01:00Garden Checklist ...<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Morning!<br />
It's been a little while since I've been able to post but here's a few things that you can be getting on with this weekend in the garden ...<br />
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<b>1. Tomatoes - </b>If you are growing Cordon Varieties of Tomatoes this year then right about now they will be needing a little help. Cordon varieties need to have something to climb up which is where Bamboo canes usually come into use! Simply place them into your Tomatoes final growing pot (making sure not to damage the roots) then tie the plant to the cane using string. It is also recommended that you tie a cane across the top of the canes to provide support for the canes which will be needed once the plants get growing! </div>
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<b><i>TIP - Make sure you remove any side shoots produced by the plant as soon as they are visible and don't worry if your plants develop curly tops, this is a perfectly normal things for a healthy plant to do!</i></b></div>
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<b>2. Climbers - </b>On the subject of support, climbing plants will be putting on a lot of fresh growth right now (e.g. Sweet Peas & Clematis) and the young shoots will need tying in. This is also one of the easiest times to do this as the new growth will be fairly flexible.</div>
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<b>3. Faded Foliage -</b> Foliage might be looking a little tired on plants such as Pulmonaria and Hellebores, cut back any of the foliage affected which will promote new growth and reduce the risk of disease.</div>
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<b>4. Stronger Growth - </b>Encourage stronger bushier growth on bedding plants by pinching out the growing tips. This will delay flowering for a couple of weeks but will prolong the flowering period for the year and the plant will be much bushier!</div>
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<b>5. Biennials - </b>In the Greenhouse now is the time to start sowing Biennials, these are plants which will develop vegetative growth in the current year then flower the next. </div>
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These include plants such as Foxgloves & Wallflowers.</div>
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<b>6. Hedging -</b> Finally if you are planning on trimming or pruning any hedges this weekend make sure that you check them for any nesting birds first to ensure that you don't disturb them.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by, don't forget you can find all the previous Checklists on the page tab above.</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-41703267195737788212016-05-28T08:00:00.000+01:002016-08-29T18:48:01.413+01:00Plant of the Month ... Rhododendron 'Dreamland'<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Morning!</div>
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I started this series last month and today I am back with the next instalment.</div>
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The <b>PLANT OF THE MONTH</b> for May is ...<b> <i>RHODODENDRON</i> 'Dreamland'!</b><br />
<b><br /></b>'Dreamland' is a hardy compact evergreen Rhododendron with dark foliage and trusses of pale pink flowers which have deep pink buds before opening.<br />
These shrubs are from the Ericaceae family and prefer to be planted on Acidic soil.<br />
Don't worry if your soil isn't acidic though as they can also be grown in a pot of Ericaceous compost ... just like mine!<br />
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<b>CULTIVATION </b></div>
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You can plant this particular variety of Rhododendron in full sun or partial shade in a South or East facing aspect. They also prefer a slightly sheltered position in a moist but well drained soil. When planting make sure that they are planted shallowly as they do not tolerate being planted deeply.<br />
If growing in a pot re-potting into fresh compost every other year is recommended along with replacing the top 5cm of soil in the year between.<br />
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Make sure that they receive adequate water throughout the year (especially if in a pot) as failure to do so can affect flowering the following Spring.<br />
Watering with Rain water is preferred as tap water can reduce the acidity around their roots however it can be tolerated for a month or so during Summer if rain water runs out.<br />
Feed the plant in Spring with an Ericaceous fertiliser or a 5-7cm mulch of leaf mould around the base.<br />
The only Pruning needed is to remove dead wood and faded flowers.<br />
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<b>PROBLEMS</b></div>
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<i>-<b> Rhododendron</b></i> 'Dreamland' may be attacked by Pests such as Vine Weevil & Aphids along with suffering from Diseases such as Powdery Mildew along with Rhododendron specific diseases.</div>
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- Flower buds may fail to form or open in Spring if the plant hasn't received sufficient watering in late Summer the year before. Mulching and watering thoroughly from July can prevent this from happening.</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-21658916613527358712016-05-21T11:22:00.000+01:002016-05-21T11:22:09.154+01:00Garden Checklist ...<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Morning!<br />
Here's a few things that you can be getting on with this weekend in the garden ...<br />
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<b>1. Hardening Off - </b>Summer Bedding plants will be putting on good growth now and no doubt you'll be itching to get them in their final positions outside! However they need to go through a process of 'Hardening Off' first before going outside permanently. This is to acclimatise them to the outdoor temperatures and conditions as they will have been protected under cover whether you've kept them in a Greenhouse or just bought them from a Garden Centre.<br />
Pop them somewhere sunny & sheltered during the day time for 7 - 10 days, bringing them back undercover on a night when the temps drop for the first 7 days then leaving outside still in their containers for the remaining days.<br />
Of course if cooler temperatures and frosts are forecast (this is still possible until the first week of June) protect with a layer of fleece, I always hold off planting out in final positions until the risk of frost has passed.</div>
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<b>2. Primulas - </b>If you have Primulas and Primroses growing in your garden the clumps can become congested over time. Now is the chance to lift and divide them, removing offests which can be used to provide new plants for yourself, replanting elsewhere around in the garden or in pots until a later date.</div>
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<b>3. Lawns -</b> It's time to give the edges of lawns a good tidy up.</div>
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Over the recent months lawns edges may have lost their neatness and slowly crept into the neighbouring soil. All you need to do is get a spade or edging tool and cut in around the edges. </div>
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<i><b>Even if it's the only thing you do in the garden this weekend it instantly makes your garden look ten times neater!</b></i></div>
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<b>4. Protect - </b>Protect young salad and veg crops from Pests and being snacked on by Birds. </div>
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All I have done in regards to my Raised Bed is covered the surface with some Butterfly Netting held above the plants tightly (allowing space within for them to grow) with wooden stakes.</div>
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<b>5. Winter Bedding - </b>I know it may seem wrong to even starting thinking about Winter, but now is the time to start deciding about what Bedding plants you would like to have later this year. If you are wanting to grow from seed plants such as Pansies the time to start doing this is over the coming weeks.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by, don't forget you can find all the previous Checklists on the page tab above.</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5205670159309294312.post-70601254772228810552016-05-08T08:00:00.000+01:002016-05-08T08:00:11.189+01:00Garden Checklist ...<div style="text-align: center;">
Good Morning!<br />
Here's a few things that you can be getting on with today in the garden ...<br />
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<b>1. Tidy up - </b>If you've got some Heucheras in your garden and they are looking a little worse for wear after the recent months then now is the time to give them a little tidy up! Remove any dead or damaged foliage along with any faded flower stems that are still on the plant.</div>
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Heucheras aren't the only plants needing a little tidy up, if you've got any Penstemons growing now is the time to cut the old stems down to the fresh shoots at the bottom. The reason we don't do this after flowering is so that the old stems can help protect the shoots from severe frost in bad weather.</div>
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<i>Potted Heuchera</i></div>
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<b>2. Veggies - </b>The soil is starting to warm up so if you'd like to get some veggies sown such as Carrots, Beetroot, Salad Crops, Radishes and Spring Onion then now is the time to get started!</div>
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<b>3. Extra Plants -</b> If you go into Garden Centres at this time you should see some pots of Sempervivums for sale, quite a few of them will have more than 1 rosette and each of these can give you an extra plant! I found a pack of 6 for £10 earlier in the week and I've managed to get 30 plants from these 6 pots! All you need to do is remove each rosette and pot on into some gritty compost.</div>
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<b>4. Climbing Plants - </b>Climbing plants such as Clematis and Honeysuckle will be putting on new growth quickly and will need tying in to their supports as soon as possible. </div>
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<b>5. Faded Flowers - </b>Deadhead the faded flowers from Azaleas, Rhododendrons and Camellias but be careful not to damage the newly developing leaves. </div>
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<b>6. Weeds - </b>It's one of the least enjoyable jobs for some people but it is one of the most important! Dig out as many weeds possible now and they will be much more controllable throughout the rest of the year. They soon multiply so it's best to get on top of them!</div>
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Thanks for stopping by, don't forget you can find all the previous Checklists on the page tab above.</div>
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<b>HAPPY GROWING!</b></div>
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<b>XXX</b></div>
NGCARDShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17608474831905472869noreply@blogger.com1