Cuttings from Coolings Autumn 2014

Cuttings FREE

FROM COOLINGS

Autumn Blaze Bedding Page 8

Bulbalicious Page 10

September Beauties

Page 18 Picture: Schizostylis Coccinea ‘major’

A u t u mn

2014

COOLINGS

green & pleasant Cuttings from Coolings 1 to visit the natural place

The Gardener’s Garden Centre THE EXPERIENCE IS GROWING

Coolings’ addresses COOLINGS

The Gardener’s Garden Centre THE EXPERIENCE IS GROWING

green & pleasant the natural place to visit

The Gardener’s Garden Centre Rushmore Hill Knockholt Sevenoaks Kent TN14 7NN

Coolings Green & Pleasant Main Road Knockholt Sevenoaks Kent TN14 7LJ

Tel: 01959-532269 Fax: 01959-534092

Tel: 01959-534386 Fax: 01959-534711

Email: rushmorehill@coolings.co.uk Website: www.coolings.co.uk

Email: mainroad@coolings.co.uk Website: www.coolings.co.uk

Opening Times

Opening Times

Monday - Saturday 9.00am - 5.00pm

Monday - Saturday 9.00am - 5.00pm

Sunday 9.00am - 4.30pm

Sunday 10.00am - 4.30pm

(Coolings, The Gardener’s Garden Centre)

(Coolings Green & Pleasant)

Monday - Saturday 9.00am - 4.30pm

Monday - Saturday 9.00am - 4.30pm

Sunday 9.00am - 4.30pm

Sunday 10.00am - 4.30pm

Getting here Local bus routes include the R5 and R10 from Orpington Station, and the 402 from Sevenoaks Station. Telephone 0845-3007000 or visit www.tfl.gov.uk for timetable information.

Get in touch Phone

Online

Email

In-store

Twitter @CoolingsGC

Facebook /coolingsnurseries

Welcome TO

Coolings

I

t is with much pride that I can say, yet again, Coolings has been inspected by independent auditors and found to have the best Plant Sales Area in the region. We await with modest confidence to learn of the national result in January 2015.

I am also very pleased to report the positive feedback from visitors to the Coolings Summer Flower Exhibition, which was themed around the WW1 Centenary. Over £3,600 was donated to “Help for Heroes” as a result.

Another success this summer has been the open air theatre in Arthurs Garden. Over 400 people enjoyed 3 different performances and this is something we will be repeating in 2015. Still on the subject of success, it was a great pleasure to meet with the students from the Coolings School of Horticulture at the end of term Awards Evening. All our students

completed their courses successfully so it was a very happy and celebratory event.

Coolings fame appears to be spreading, and whilst we are used to regular visits from the closer parts of Europe, this is the first year that the Garden Centre Association of the Czech Republic has visited both Coolings sites to learn how we do things, as has the owner of 3 garden centres in Shanghai!

Visitors to CG&P during August will have seen scaffolding around the building. I’m pleased to say there was no issue with the structure of the building, but we now have a 50kw array of solar panels, which will make us almost self-sufficient in electricity throughout the year. Alongside our biomass boiler and rainwater recovery system, we can proudly say we have one of the most eco-friendly buildings in the business!

Looking forward, events and displays for Christmas are already in hand for your enjoyment in the coming months.

We look forward to welcoming you soon.

g Paul Coolin Chairman Coolings

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Garden

tips

for September to December WORDS: MARK REEVE, PLANT DOCTOR

September • • • •

October • • • • •

Stop feeding trees and shrubs in containers Sow winter lettuce and plant out spring cabbage Lift maincrop potatoes Plant spring flowering bulbs It is now even possible to use technology to replace raspberries by printing with a 3D printer!

But in our view nothing will ever replace what nature produces.

Our soft fruit range will be available from mid October

Net ponds to keep out autumn leaves Move evergreens and conifers this month Fix grease bands to apple and pear trees Lift and divide rhubarb next year Sow sweet peas under cover for earlier flowers

November • • • • • •

Ideal time for planting roses (In stock from November) Get the lawnmower serviced ready for next year Plant fruit trees and bushes Insulate pots left out for the winter Plant garlic by the end of the month Protect alpines from too much winter rain Considering a conifer? National Conifer Week runs from 27th September – 5th October. One of our most popular true dwarf conifers is Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Minima Aurea’ (AGM) and this is currently on offer at 2 for £20. Would you like to know more? See “Conifers for a small garden” on our website, www.coolings.co.uk

December • • • • •

Prune grape and ornamental vines before the end of the month Take hardwood cuttings Shake snow off conifers, hedges and shrubs to prevent damage Dig over the soil adding organic matter when the weather allows Tall roses can be pruned to prevent winter wind rock

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s The best time to plant rose n whe n um aut the ing is dur they are dormant, our new range for 2014-15 will be . available early November w kno to like you Would more? See “New Roses for 2014” on our website , www.coolings .co.uk

Mark Reeve

I have moved into a new house and garden and have inherited a grapevine. Can it be pruned? I am worried it might take over!

Enjoy the fruits of your labour, Vitis ‘Phoenix’

Grapevines can be pruned several times during the year. If you prune in winter do so before Christmas as they can bleed badly if done in the New Year. The sap will already be rising in the plant well before spring arrives. However, hard pruning in the winter does tend to encourage lots of leafy growth the following year. The vine could be pruned in the summer around June/July which will limit its growth somewhat. Another benefit doing it then is that you can see where the fruit clusters are and not lose any.

I grow dahlias but find the plants get mildew during the summer. What am I doing wrong?

If the plants are stressed from being allowed to dry out, or you water overhead, especially in the evening, then you will find they succumb to mildew. Make sure the plants are well spaced and ventilated and are kept moist but not wet. Try to avoid wetting the foliage too much when watering. If particular varieties are prone then consider using a fungicide such as Fungus Fighter, but this must be sprayed early on as a preventative rather than a cure.

Dahlias give a fantastic array of colours throughout the summer, ‘Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff ’

I have algae growing on my rhododendron and skimmia leaves. Can I do much about it?

Unfortunately there are no chemical controls for algae on plants so really all that you can do is prune the plants to allow more light in. This will allow more light and air around the plant and discourage algae. Giving the plants a feed, in this case with an Ericaceous feed, will improve matters. If the plants are shaded by large trees consider pruning the canopy slightly to let more sunlight in too.

Ericaceous plant food formally ‘Plant Food for Acid Loving Plants’, is available as a slow release, ready mixed and water soluble product

Cuttings from Coolings 5

Take Stock

Spring

and Plan for the

WORDS: Gary Carvosso

A

s the season changes and the nights draw in, all is not lost horticulturally! We can look forward to gorgeous swathes of late flowering perennials and the whole autumn colour spectacle later in October and November.

Traditionally autumn is the time to think about the garden and planning colour for next spring. The rationale is sensible and is why it has long been said autumn is the time for planting. Plants establish so much quicker when planted in the autumn as the soil is still warm, it is generally moist and the air cool at night, creating very little stress on the plant. Rooting will take place very quickly resulting in very little watering next summer. As we all know, regular

and almost daily watering is required for plants that are planted in late spring and early summer.

By planning for the future it is possible to have a garden that is always showing its true colours. By choosing a Coolings plant you also have the added comfort that we offer a 5-year guarantee on our hardy plants. Growing the majority of plants on our own nursery in Knockholt, 500ft above sea level and nestled on the top of the North Downs, produces a very resilient plant.

Camellia ‘Anticipation’ Proven to be a great garden plant. An extremely hardy and easy to grow camellia that produces large, ruffled, peony-form, crimson flowers in late winter and early spring

Sambucus nigra ‘Haschberg’

Heather Garden Girls®

“The European Elderberry” NEW Large clusters of small fragrant flowers appear and the dark-purpleto-black fruit ripens in late summer.

Great for picking or for the birds!

A popular seller which has begun to see heathers taking their place in gardens once again.

It is a fantastic series of modern heather – bud-bloomers.

Nandina domestica One of the best hardy shrubs for the garden and yet surprisingly not yet widely grown. Grows in practically any soil, taking on extreme drought

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Rhododendron Dwarf Hybrid ‘Tinkerbird’ Sweetly scented cream-white flowers, pink in bud and produced in early May. Suitable for a container or planted in the garden.

Enchanted Autumn

Gardens of the Imagination

Showcase

Open from

12th September till 2nd November

T

here will be a sprinkling of fairy dust through our plantarea this autumn! We will be showcasing the magic of autumn plants with an enchanting pathway of themed displays. Enchanted forests, mystical moors, dragons and elves, mysterious pools, fairy tales and folklore, trolls and goblins. Visit us during September and October and enter into our gardens of the imagination!

Skimmia japonica ‘Magic Marlot’

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September Beauties

in the Herbaceous Garden WORDS: JON REBURN

L

ate summer and early autumn is a magical time in the garden.

Whilst earlier flowering perennials are a happy memory, there are a surprising number of herbaceous plants that are at the height of their beauty at this time.

“Top of the tree” has to be Japanese Anemones. Tough and reliable, they will return year after year to give height and colour. There are some lovely varieties about. ‘September Charm’ is a beautiful single pink, which is complemented well with the single white flowers of ‘Honorine Jobert’. Double flowered forms are also available, with ‘Whirlwind’ probably being the favourite among customers. This year during September we aim to have as many varieties as possible for you to choose from.

Schizostylis or Kaffir Lilly is perhaps less well known, but is a real gem. The beautiful flowers appear from the evergreen sword-like leaves throughout autumn. Crimson, White and Pink varieties are all available.

Asters are an old favourite for late season colour. Modern hybrids such as the Island Series are compact, floriferous and healthy. They will clump up quickly to produce a beautiful display year in, year out with little fuss.

Sedums are as loved by bees, as they are by us. If you want to do one thing to provide a late source of nectar in your 8 Cuttings from Coolings

garden, then plant a sedum. Their fleshy leaves make them very drought tolerant and extremely low maintenance. One hint to make them flower later is to give them the ‘Chelsea Chop’. Simply give the plant a hair-cut in the week of the Chelsea Flower Show and this will make it regrow shorter, bushier and later flowering!

Hardier varieties of Dahlia like deep red ‘Bishop of Llandaff’ look stunning at this time of year. Penstemons and Rudbeckia will still be strutting their stuff and can be planted in combination with grasses which are also looking their best at this time.

Anemone x hybridus ‘September Charm’

As Shakespeare famously said, “Summer’s lease hath all too short a date”.

This is especially true with our fantastic autumn herbaceous offer, buy any 3 for £20 in late September – October. Offer valid on all Herbaceous Perennials up to £11.99 retail.

So make the most of every moment in your garden and let summer slip into autumn with good cheer!

Anemones

Anemone hupehensis var. japonica ‘Prinz Heinrich’

Anemone ‘Honorine Jobert’

Anemone x Hybrid ‘Whirlwind’

Dahlias

Dahlia ‘Moonfire’

Dahlia ‘Fascination’

Dahlia ‘Mystic Dreamer’

Schizostylis

Sedum

Schizostylis coccinea ‘Mollie Gould’

Schizostylis coccinea ‘Major’ Schizostylis coccinea ‘Fenland Daybreak’

Sedum spectabile ‘Brilliant’

3 for £20

during September/October includes all Herbaceous Perennials up to £11.99 retail

Sedum spectabile ‘Iceberg’

Sedum spurium ‘Dragon’s Blood’

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n m u t u A r u o Y r u lo o C

t Coolings with Great Value a BURN WORDS: JON RE

in your garden?

Want quick, easy colour some bedding Then think about planting ar we have plenty and patio plants. This ye you! of great offers to tempt

Tears of Joy! NEW trailing viola Teardrops series. Fab for autumn to spring colour in tubs and baskets. On offer during Sep tember with your “Cuttings from Co olings” newsletter voucher.

Instant Colour! m’ Big home grown ‘Garden Mu 99, this £8. ally rm No . um hem Chrysant of just season at a pick-me-up price pot! £5.99 each. Just one will fill a

Perfect Pastels!

Half-hardy Cyclamen in perfect pastel shades for cheering up the autumn. Get a FREE cyclamen worth £2.99 with your “Cuttings from Coolings” newsletter voucher during November. Well worth a visit!

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Fragrant Spring!

Get a FREE multi-pack of fragrant spring Sweet William dianthus during October with your “Cuttings from Coolings” newsletter voucher. Plant them now, enjoy them later! While you’re about it, why not also pick up some scented wallflowers, which are best planted at this time of year and will go well with your free Sweet Williams!

Packs full of pleasure!

As always we will have a mouth-watering selection of multi-packs of winter pansy and viola, hardy polyanthus and primroses, silver leaf, wallflowers, stocks, dianthus and bellis daisies. Home grown by us and fresh from our on-site nursery.

ite!

Customer favour

e of ries, proven to be on Trailing pansy wave se s. ar ye s of the past few the best introduction ! em th e lov d customers We sell thousands an er off ial ec e pot plants sp This season big 1 litr ally £3.99 each). idu four for £10 (indiv

‘Festive Fiver’ Planted Containers In December we will be offering selected planted outdoor arrangements at the crazy price of just £5 with your “Cuttings from Coolings” newsletter voucher (normally £12.99).

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Upright Trees for the

Small Garden

WORDS: GARRY NORRIS

T

here have been several recent introductions of trees that are upright in habit to reflect the smaller gardens of modern houses. This allows them to be used to give height but not excessive width. They can be planted close to boundaries without the risk of overhanging neighbouring properties.

Amelanchier alnifolia ‘Obelisk’ Amelanchier alnifolia ‘Obelisk’ has a profusion of white flowers in mid-spring with green leaves turning golden in the autumn. It will grow in most fertile soils in sun or part shade.

Laburnum anagyroides ‘Erect’ Laburnum anagyroides ‘Erect’ produces very long racemes of golden yellow flowers on upright growth in early June.

Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Slender Silhouette’ Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Slender Silhouette’ combines the lovely green leaves that turn a strong red, orange and yellow colour in the autumn with a slender habit allowing most gardens to accommodate it.

Sorbus aucuparia ‘Autumn Spire’ Sorbus aucuparia ‘Autumn Spire’ gives interest throughout the growing season with white flowers in the spring, green leaves turning a rich autumn colour and clusters of yellow-orange fruits that last into the winter.

Prunus cerasifera ‘Crimson Point’ Prunus cerasifera ‘Crimson Point’ is a NEW introduction, neat and slim line with vibrant purple leaves and pink flowers opening to white in the spring.

Sambucus nigra ‘Black Tower’ A small tree or large shrub is Sambucus nigra ‘Black Tower’ that is an upright black leaved elder. Bright pink flat flower heads are produced in the summer followed by black fruits that can be used for wine making. Ideal for any garden in well-drained soil and can be planted in sun or part shade.

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Evergreen for all Shrubs

Don’t forget!

Year Interest

When planting we recommend using Coolings Tree & Shrub compost 3 or more bags £5.49 per bag, or £6.99 each.

I

t’s at this time of the year that the evergreens come into their own, giving structure and colour in the garden. Evergreens don’t have to be large, the following plants are compact and can be used in the garden or put into planted arrangements placed on the patio to give interest throughout the winter months.

Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Golf Ball’ Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Golf Ball’ is NEW. With its fresh mint-green foliage and rounded shape, growing to a metre makes an ideal plant for the small garden.

New introduction - Nandina domestica ‘Obsessed’ is a stunning compact evergreen with bright red new foliage in the spring lasting for a long period, even into the autumn. This feathery evergreen foliaged plant grows to 70cm height with a 60cm spread.

Pieris japonica ‘Little Heath’ (AGM) has glossy green leaves edged with cream, flushing pink in the spring. It produces white flowers in the spring. Growing to a height of 60cm, it requires lime free soil and is ideal for containers.

Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’ (AGM) with leathery, red-margined deep green leaves and red winter buds brighten even the darkest winter days. The flower buds open in the spring to white-pink with a lovely fragrance. This plant will tolerate part shade and grow to a nice oval shape of 1m. This male plant will pollinate other female varieties to produce berry, such as Skimmia japonica ‘Olympic Flame’ (red berries) or Skimmia japonica ‘Wakehurst White’ (white berries).

Sarcococca confusa (AGM) has lovely dark green glossy leaves and clusters of very fragrant white flowers produced in the winter, followed by glossy black fruits. It will eventually grow to a height of 1.5m and is good for shade.

Cuttings from Coolings 13

Hampton WORDS: GARY CARVOSSO

F

Court

ollowing the success of our centenary celebrations back in June 2013, we were talking over ideas of how to let more people know that we offer one of the widest ranges of plants in the country and beyond. (We are frequently told this as we have a close network of international friends through the International Garden Centre Association and, incidentally, Paul Cooling has recently been asked to represent the UK part of the Association.)

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The Royal Horticultural Society’s Hampton Court Palace Flower Show, with over 130,000 visitors, seemed a great way to talk to many more keen gardeners in the south east. This led on to us taking on the challenge of creating one of the show gardens. Our garden was designed by Alex Lindsay, one of our School of Horticulture tutors (see page 24). The planting and build was undertaken by our team, with Alex adding the finishing polish to the hard landscaping element. The garden, called “One Hundred Years from Now”, was awarded a Bronze Medal by the 15 RHS judges, which for our first attempt and, I suspect, the smallest budget of all the show gardens, was a great accolade and relief!

eser ved k!” d ll e w a g “ Takin al l t hat hard wor rest after

The last two days of the build would have made great reality television when we realised the four very handsome and very large trees the garden was built around had scorched in transit! Frantic phone calls to a specialist tree nursery in the Midlands resulted in a very early morning delivery and a herculean effort to replace them and replant the garden before the judging took place.

If you didn’t visit Hampton Court, you will still be able to enjoy our show garden as we will rebuild it in Arthurs garden this autumn and winter. By next May it should begin to look wonderful.

A special centenary video of our Hampton Court Garden is also available at www.coolings.co.uk.

Cuttings from Coolings 15

Grow your interests..

When is a daisy not a daisy?

Turn to Page 24...

Love your W ild life this Autumn

Words: Kirsten Walters

When the nights draw in and the cool damp air has us inside again looking out onto our gardens, spare a thought for the wildlife left behind in the cold. All manner of animals and insects will be looking for a place to hunker down for winter until spring brings the flowers and nectar back into bloom.

One of the most important things you can do in your garden to care for wildlife is to provide variety. Plants and shrubs with a mixture of flowers along with fruits and berries are a natural source of food and shelter. If space allows, a patch of longer grass and a wood pile will help provide all important ‘highways’ for small creatures such as toads and hedgehogs to move between your garden and the environment beyond. impractical there are several If space, or taste, make a wood pile bird & Bug Slice (£9.99) will stylish alternatives available. A Lady omes ladybirds in with a give aphids a place to settle and welc and warm hollow stems place to spend the winter in the dry with plentiful food.

How about inviting royalty to spend some time in your garden?

Whilst most of a hive will die off, queen bees will be looking for somewhere to shelter and conserve their energy. A Bee House (£16.99) lined with cardboard or some dry moss is just the place. Site your box on the ground or a low wall in a sheltered south-facing position. The slate roof of the box can be lifted to allow the bees to be viewed easily.

Hedgehogs can be kept safe and secure in their own houses. These beautiful redwood Hedgehog Houses (£59.99) are hand-made locally and will allow hedgehogs to hibernate away from bonfire dangers and the like. Unseasonably warm weather during the winter can cause the hedgehogs to become active so provide food close by (Chapelwood Hedgehog Food 1.5kg £4.99.)

Keep an eye on your bird feeders in autumn and into the winter months. Dirty feeders can spread diseases so keep them clean with a stiff brush and Feeder Fresh (£8.99) to act as a moisture trap leaving seed dry and fresh.

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B ul bal icious

Words: Nicky Peto

H

aving been lucky enough to again visit the world famous Keukenhof Gardens in Holland this spring, I came back brimming with enthusiasm for all the beautiful bulbs. The colour and planting combinations made me hungry to try lots of new ideas, there were many schemes to give a really long display of colour, starting with crocus going right through to late flowering tulips and elegant alliums.

My favourite combination was fairly subtle containing Frittilaria Persica and Ivory bells with Hyacinth Woodstock , tulips Purissima and Negrita. Another one to try, Hyacinth Woodstock, Pink Pearl, Muscari Armeniacum, Tulips Negrita and Passionale.

A number of combinations could be adapted to planting in pots, you don’t need a massive flower bed to create a good effect. Plant in layers, in what is called lasagne planting, with late flowering tulips at the bottom, a few not too tall alliums next, then narcissi followed by hyacinths and finally crocus near the top; this will give nearly 100 days of colour.

Narcissus ‘Actaea’

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Tulip ‘Exotic Emperor’

Tulip ‘El Nino’

Tulip ‘Purissima’

My favourite tulips for this year are Brown Sugar,Van Eijk, Exotic Emperor, Negrita Purissima and El nino. Brown Sugar looks lovely planted with narcissus actaea.

Purissima with narcissus Sir Winston Churchill is a good combination.

If I had to choose one variety of narcissi to grow it would have to be the very elegant thalia, with multi-headed pure white flowers, they look great when partnered with lily flowered tulip Purple Dream.

Visit our bulb store for lots of ideas and great offers. See our biggest ever range of loose tulips in our pick n mix range.

Tulip ‘Van Eijk’

Narcissus ‘Sir Winston Churchill’

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Scones as fresh as they come!

Words: Kris Douglas

Buy 2 get the 3rd FREE on any of our scones

T

he simple scone is often considered to be quintessentially English, especially as part of the traditional Afternoon Tea enjoyed by so many of our customers in Arthurs. However, you may be surprised to learn that the scone is more likely to have originated in Wales as a small, round, yeast cake (leavened bread) cooked on bake stones. Another claim is that scones began in Scotland, as the first printed reference to scones is dated 1513 by a Scottish poet.

Who deserves the accolade for inventing the scone is, I am sure, a subject for a longer debate, but one thing for sure is that there are many different types, shapes and sizes. Of course, here in Arthurs we believe that our recipe is the best, and our scones are the greatest! We have been baking scones in Arthurs since 1997 when we opened, working tirelessly to perfect our “family” recipe, which originally came from Robin’s Nest (our tea room before Arthurs was built).

It seems as though baking has seen a revival, thanks to the likes of cookery pioneer Mary Berry and “The Great British Bake Off”. For my part, the love of baking

20 Cuttings from Coolings

is as strong today as it ever was. I regularly arrive at work before 7am to start baking the 200 or more scones our customers enjoy daily in Arthurs. The hardest thing is to pick a favourite. As well as traditional fruit scones and cheese scones, we like to try different flavours with the changing seasons. Scone recipes on our list include buttermilk, chocolate, mincemeat, cranberry, cherry, pumpkin, and one we’ve yet to try is lavender.

I don’t think anything will ever beat our traditional scones though, and if you’d like to try what we consider to be the best and freshest scones around, use your “Buy 2 and get the 3rd FREE” voucher (see page 37) – enjoy!

£1 Off Pre-Booked Christmas Lunch Book your December Christmas Lunch in Arthurs using this voucher between 1 September-9 November for £1 off per person (normal price £24.50) You will also receive a Complimentary Drinks Voucher for January 2015 Valid in Arthurs at Coolings The Gardeners Garden Centre Offer valid 1 September – 9 November 2014 inclusive, whilst spaces available. Multiple voucher can be used per transaction.

Please redeem this voucher when you come for your Christmas Lunch booking, complimentary drink vouchers will be issued on day of your Christmas Lunch. No cash alternative. Not valid with a trade card or any other offer. For full Terms & Conditions please see www.coolings.co.uk

Christmas at

WORDS: KAREN HOWARD Summer is still giving its last rays of sunshine into Arthurs garden with our wonderful display of Dahlias and Christmas still seems a long time away for most of us.

O

ur busy catering team however have been busy preparing a delightful menu of Christmas fare to welcome all our customers this year. Over the years with the beautiful Kentish barn feel and the cosy surroundings, our Christmas Lunch has gone from strength to strength. It is not only the charm of Arthurs that makes our Christmas Lunch so special, but the freshest ingredients lovingly created by our team of six chefs and bakers.

Hopefully you will be joining us for a Christmas Lunch during December, starting from Monday 1st December until Friday 19th December (not including weekends). A three course menu is available with a choice of three sittings, 12.30pm, 1pm or 1.30pm, at a cost of £24.50 per person (£23.50 with promotion) with a deposit of £5 per person on booking.

Menus are available now to collect in store or download from our website www.coolings. co.uk . Booking can be made either in person, telephone 01959 532269 or post.

Mains

Desserts

Roasted Turkey Crown from our local butcher

Starters

all starters come with a freshly baked roll on your table

Light Red Onion Soup

Figgie Christmas pudding (V) (N)

served with Roast Potatoes & Seasonal Vegetables

Citrus & Pomegranate Salad with Chilli-Honey Dressing (V) (G/F)

Lemon & Rosemary Crusted Pan-Fried Cod Loin

Deep Fried Brie (V)

served on a bed of Spinach with Baby Herbed Potatoes, Baked Vine Cherry Tomatoes, Mange Tout and Baby Corn

Stilton Stuffed Mushrooms (V) served with Mixed Leaf Salad and Cranberry Relish

Velvety Milk Chocolate Pots with Raspberries (G/F) (NT)

Baked Gammon Ham glazed in Orange & Ginger Marmalade

served with Goats Cheese Croutons

served with Mixed Leaf salad and Red Onion & Tomato Jam

served with Brandy Butter and Cinnamon Tuile (with Custard or Cream)

served with Pigs in Blankets, Sage & Onion Stuffing, Roast Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables

served with LemonMeringue Ice Cream

Arthurs Homemade Nut & Seed Loaf with Cranberry, Apple & Brandy Sauce (V) (N) served with Roast Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables

Deep Glazed Lemon Tart (NT) (V)

Coffee Topped Panna Cotta (N) with Roasted Fig & Vanilla Glaze

To Finish

Fresh Filter Coffee / Tea with a Homemade Seasonal Truffle (V) (Refills available)

(V) – Vegetarian, (N) – Contains nuts, (NT) – Nut Trace, (G/F) – Gluten Free

Cuttings from Coolings 21

Excursions at Coolings

Highrove Gardens A Tour of

Monday 13th October 2014

C

oolings are very pleased to announce that we have once again arranged a customer visit to Highgrove.

Over the past 30 years HRH The Prince of Wales has transformed the grounds of Highgrove into what have been acknowledged as some of the most inspired and innovative gardens in the United Kingdom. His Royal Highness, a strict adherent to organic and sustainable methods, has helped create gardens which are both magical and intriguing while being environmentally sound, encouraging both plants and wildlife to thrive.

Timetable

We will leave Coolings Nurseries by coach at 8.00am and, following a journey of approximately 3 hours, will arrive at The Hare & Hounds Hotel in Tetbury for lunch.

At 12.45pm we will arrive at Highgrove and have two tours around the gardens. It is extremely important that we adhere to the strict timing of the tours. The tours will take approximately 1½ hrs each and will cover two miles of garden. Please note that some paths in the garden are unmade, that there are cobblestones on the Estate and there are no seating facilities in the garden.

After the tour there will be time for tea and cake in the Tea Room and of course a visit to the Highgrove Shop. Here you will find a wide variety of specially selected exclusive products which are inspired by the garden and in the interests of His Royal Highness. We aim to leave no later than 4.00pm, hopefully arriving back around 7.30 to 8.00pm. These times are approximate and will be dependent on traffic.

Cost

£89.00 per head to include the cost of coach travel, lunch, entrance to Highgrove and your tour of the gardens. Afternoon tea, if required, will be at your own expense.

Security

All guests must bring some form of identification with them – ideally a passport or photographic driving licence alternatively two utility bills.

22 Cuttings from Coolings

Ticket Allocation

This visit has always proved to be extremely popular and demand for tickets is likely to outstrip supply. To be fair to all our customers we are therefore allocating tickets by telephone only, so from 10am Thursday 25th September we will take bookings and payment, on a first come first served basis. When ringing please make sure you have payment details to hand.

Autumn

Excursions at Coolings

Cable Car across the Thames by day and night Wednesday 17 September, departs 3pm • Cost: £29 per person Leaving Coolings in the late afternoon we arrive in London to make a cable car crossing of the Thames and admire remarkable buildings which have arisen from the massive regeneration project of the last 40 years. We will then move to a local venue for an evening meal while the sun sets (not included in the price).

Afterwards we return across the Thames, now in darkness, to marvel at the lights of this fabulous skyline. An unusual and spectacular experience!

Kew Royal Botanic Gardens Friday 3 October, departs 8.30am • Cost: £55 per person Experience the world heritage site of Kew encompassing centuries of royal history. Explore spectacular glasshouses, botanical art galleries and a Georgian royal palace. Walk above the treetops or relax aboard the Kew Explorerhop-on, hop-off guided bus tour.

Behind the scenes at the BBC Thursday 30 October, departs 1.30pm • Cost: £35 per person Step inside the exciting world of broadcasting! Come and peek behind the scenes of the dynamic live broadcasting hub of the BBC. The entertaining and informative guides will tell you all about the rich history of the building and the BBC. You can view the new state of the art newsroom and even try your hand at reading the news and weather yourself, on the interactive news set.

Also find out how BBC radio drama is made, plus lots more.

Portsmouth - A Victorian Christmas Friday 28 November, departs 8.30am • Cost: £55 per person Coolings are once again able to offer this favourite trip to a fantastic Christmas experience at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, which in itself is a world class visitor attraction.

We will be visiting the Victorian Christmas Fair on Friday 28th November, where we will see beautiful snowy streets, a magic lantern show,Victorian dancing as well as a host of colourful Victorian characters.

Cuttings from Coolings 23

Grow your interests..

Studying a course at Coolings is a brilliant way to further your existing gardening knowledge, or help you on your way if you are just starting out.

We offer nationally recognised RHS qualifications, as well as courses aimed at those wanting to study purely for the pleasure of gardening.

Some of our courses are modular and run for six weeks, others last a full educational year, plus we offer daytime and evening options for some - but you’re sure to find one that suits your own interests and time commitments.

Find out more about studying at Coolings by visiting our website www.coolings.co.uk, picking up our education brochure, or contacting Lesley or Neil at The Gardener’s Garden Centre on 01959 532269

So when is a daisy not a daisy?

Well there is much more to a daisy than meets the eye! To those in the know, plants like Argyranthemum, Bellis, Gerbera, Heliopsis, Leucanthemum, Osteospermum and many more could all be described as daisy-like, because they are all members of the Asteraceae plant family.

Let us open up a world of horticulture with our range of courses at Coolings.

Enr o l t o st udy at C oo lings t oday We now run evening classes

Success

Summer Flower Exhibition

for

M

any of you will have had a chance to experience the delights of our stunning Summer Flower Exhibition this year, located in the new glasshouse on our production nursery. Our exhibition was a WW1 themed Floral Tribute and it proved a great success in more ways than one. With over 200 stunning plants showcasing what we do best, growing quality plants. Some of my favourite comments taken from our guest book include:

‘Really lovely display – very moving and thoughtful.’ – Valerie

‘Sensitive, artistic, amazing! Thank you.’ – Mary

‘As usual Coolings have delivered on a wonderful display of colour. The music made it very poignant.’ – Roy ‘A sheer joy and fitting memory.’ – Gillian

‘A wonderful display and a great tribute to the memory of so many.’ – Jean

Each year along with the many charitable events and collections that we do at Coolings, the Summer Exhibition is dedicated to a different charity. The chosen charity in 2014 was ‘Help for Heroes’ and through the kind generosity of so many of you, our customers and friends, this was a record year. Together we raised in excess of £3,600, which was presented to the charity by Coolings shortly after our exhibition finished. Thank you to everyone who kindly donated to support the continuing good work of Help for Heroes.

Christmas

at Coolings

The festive season may still seem months away, but at Coolings we will be ready to welcome you when winter arrives.

Christmas Trees from Coolings A natural Christmas tree is the real centrepiece of the home. We will once again be selling only British-grown, premium-grade cut trees, in sizes from 4’ to 15’ tall. Our full range of Nordman Firs, Norway Spruce, foliage and natural Christmas wreaths will be available from late November.

A Festive Home Plants make a really pleasing gift and brighten up your home during the darker months. We offer a complimentary gift wrap service for whichever plant you choose. With a selection of Kentish grown Poinsettias, Cyclamen, Orchids and Azaleas we will have the colour to suit your chosen festive theme. Why not use our December Cuttings voucher “Buy a 1ltr Cyclamen houseplant for £4.99 and get a white pot cover for £1.00 (normally £6.49)”?

Cakes and Puddings from Arthurs Homemade and hand decorated, a selection of Christmas Cake designs and traditional Christmas Puddings will be available from Arthurs. All the cakes are well matured, spiked with brandy and absolutely jam-packed with mixed fruit. Full details of our designs and prices are available at www.coolings.co.uk from 1 October.

Christmas Turkey at Coolings For the second year now you will be able to order your fresh Appledore Turkey from us. With over sixty years of farming experience behind them, the Wreathall family delivery top quality arable and poultry produce at Appledore Farm in Kent. Full details on turkey prices and availability at www.coolings.co.uk from 1 October.

26 Cuttings from Coolings

EVENTS

at The Gardener's Garden Centre, Rushmore Hill

*Items marked with an asterisk must be prebooked – see Booking form on page 29 or call 01959 532269

13 & 14 September

Orpington Floral Art Society Show

Free Event

Saturday 13 September

Horticultural Show

Free Event

Wednesday 17 September

Excursion: Cable Car across the Thames

by Day and Night*

£29 per person

Friday 12 September

Enchanting Autumn Showcase - Gardens of the Imagination opens

Free Event

Friday 12 September

September Beauties offer 3 for £20 on all Herbaceous Perennials and Grasses Starts

Promotion

19, 20 & 21 September 10am - 4.30pm

Craft Fair by Keep it Local Events

Free Event

Saturday 27 September 10am - 4pm

Food and Produce Market by Keep it Local Events

Free Event

Friday 3 October

Excursion: Kew Royal Botanic Gardens*

£55 per person

Sunday 5 October

Talk / Demonstation: Orchid Day with ‘The Orchid Master’ - President of the Orchid Society of Great Britain

Free Event

Monday 13 October

Excursion: Highgrove*

£89 per person

Saturday 25 October 10am - 4pm

Food and Produce Market by Keep it Local Events

Free Event

Tuesday 28 October 2pm

Talk: Clematis Throughout the Year*

£5 per person

Thursday 30 October

Excursion: Behind the Scenes at the BBC*

£35 per person

Friday 31 October

Floristry Workshops with Myra Lester - Box of Delights*

£25 per person

Saturday 1 November 7pm

Hospice in the Weald Gardeners Question Time* With expert Jim Buttress. Tickets Available from Hospice in the Weald - £30. Tel: 01892 820527 or www.hospiceintheweald.org.uk

£30 per person

1 & 2 November

Orpington Art Club

Free Event

Friday 14 November

Floristry Workshops with Myra Lester - Boxed Up*

£25 per person

Saturday 22 November 10am - 4pm

Food and Produce Market by Keep it Local Events

Free Event

Friday 28 November

Excursion: Portsmouth, A Victorian Christmas*

£55 per person

5, 6 & 7 December 10am - 4.30pm

Christmas Craft Fair by Keep it Local Events

Free Event

Sunday 7 December

East Surrey Woodturners (Exhibition/Sale)

Free Event

12, 13 & 14 December 10am - 4pm

Christmas Food and Produce Market by Keep it Local Events

Free Event

Friday 19 December

Floristry Workshops with Myra Lester - A Christmas Welcome*

£25 per person

Cuttings from Coolings 27

EVENTS

at Coolings Green & Pleasant

*Items marked with an asterisk must be pre-booked – see Booking form on Page 33 or call 01959 534386

Storytelling for Under 5’s* - “Handa’s Surprise” Come and join the fun as favourite children’s stories

£4.50 per child inc. lunch

Tuesday 23 September, 8am

Breakfast with the Experts Wildlife Photography with

£10 per person inc. breakfast

Thursday 9 October, 11am

Free Guided Tour of the Nature Trail No need to pre-book, meet your Guide by the Nature Trail till at 11am.

Free for all Annual Pass Holders (non-holders £5 per person)

Thursday 23 October, 10am, 11am, 12 noon and 1.30pm

Storytelling for Under 5’s* - “I will never, not ever eat a tomato” Come and join the fun as favourite

£4.50 per child inc. lunch

Thursday 23 October, 6.30pm – 9.30pm

Food Night Blueberry Café Curry Night*

£19.99 per person

Saturday 25 October – Sunday 2 November

Half Term Halloween Quiz On The Nature Trail Follow our spooky quiz around the Nature Trail, answer all

£2 per child

Tuesday 28 October, 11am

Build A Bird Box Workshop* Hands-on workshop

£9.99 per child aged 5+, inc. bird box

Thursday 30 October, 5pm

Halloween Tea & Spooky Torchlight Tour Of The Nature Trail* Enjoy a delicious Halloween Tea in

£9.99 per child, inc. tea and torch

Friday 31 October, 10am

Halloween Cookie Workshop* Make and decorate some special Halloween cookies with our cookery expert! Enjoy a delicious picnic-style lunch while your cookies are baking! All children must be accompanied by an adult

£9.99 per child aged 5+, inc. lunch

Tuesday 11 November, 6.30pm – 9.30pm

Food Night In Blueberry Café Nostalgia Night*

£19.99 per person

Thursday 27 November, 10am, 11am, 12 noon and 1.30pm

Storytelling for Under 5’s* - “The Three Billy Goats Gruff” Come and join the fun as favourite children’s

£4.50 per child inc. lunch

Thursday 15 September, 10am, 11am, 12 noon and 1.30pm

are brought to life in special storytelling sessions for the under 5’s.

Kate Radcliffe LRPS DPAGB. Join Kate for a wildlife photography master class on our Nature Trail, followed by delicious a full English breakfast in Blueberry Café.

children’s stories are brought to life in special storytelling sessions for the under 5’s.

Join us for a delicious 3-course meal of curry favourites. Tables can be booked between 6.30pm-9.30pm. Blueberry Café is a licensed premises.

the quiz questions correctly and win a prize! All children must be accompanied by an adult

giving children the chance to build their own wooden bird box providing children with a great opportunity to build their own wooden Bird Box to take home and use in the garden. All tools and materials are provided, children are just asked to bring along a responsible adult and lots of enthusiasm!

Blueberry Café at 5pm, the join our Guide for a “spooktacular” torchlight tour of the Nature Trail after dark! All children must be accompanied by an adult

Join us for a delicious 3-course meal of nostalgic favourites. Tables can be booked between 6.30pm-9.30pm. Blueberry Café is a licensed premises.

stories are brought to life in special storytelling sessions for the under 5’s.

FULL DETAILS OF ALL OUR SPECIAL CHRISTMAS EVENTS WILL BE AVAILABLE IN-STORE OR ON OUR WEBSITE FROM MONDAY 27 OCTOBER 2014

28 Cuttings from Coolings

Booking form

Events at the Gardener’s Garden Centre No. of Tickets

Event

Date

EXCURSION: CABLE CAR ACROSS THE THAMES

BY DAY AND NIGHT

Wednesday 17 September, depart 3pm

EXCURSION: KEW ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS

Friday 3 October, depart 8.30am

Cost £29 per person

£55 per person PHONE BOOKING ONLY SEE PAGE 22

£89 per person

EXCURSION: HIGHGROVE – PHONE BOOKING FROM 10AM ON THURSDAY 25 SEPTEMBER

Monday 13 October, depart 8am

TALK: CLEMATIS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

Tuesday 28 October, 2pm

£5 per person inc scone & butter in Arthurs

EXCURSION: BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE BBC

Thursday 30 October, depart 1.30pm

£35 per person

FLORISTRY WORKSHOP WITH MYRA LESTER: BOX OF DELIGHTS

Friday 31 October, 9.30am

£25 per person including lunch

FLORISTRY WORKSHOP WITH MYRA LESTER: ALL BOXED UP

Friday 14 November, 9.30am

£25 per person including lunch

EXCURSION: PORTSMOUTH, A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS

Friday 28 November, depart 8.30am

£55 per person

FLORISTRY WORKSHOP WITH MYRA LESTER: A CHRISTMAS WELCOME

Friday 19 December, 9.30am

£25 per person including lunch

* Please Note: All children must be accompanied by an adult For further details on any of our excursions please see our website www.coolings.co.uk.events

Total Cost £

Your Information Print Name (Mr/Mrs/Ms/Miss) .................................................................... Signed.........................................................................

Address .................................................................................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................................. ............................ ............................ .........

Postcode ......................................................Telephone Number ......................................................................................................

Email .........................................................................................................................................................................................................

Your details will only be used by Coolings Nurseries Ltd and will not be passed to any third parties.

I enclose a cheque for £ ______________________________ (payable to Coolings Nurseries Ltd) *Or please debit my VISA/VISA DEBIT/MASTERCARD/MASTERCARD DEBIT* (*delete as appropriate) Card No ___ ___ ___ ___ - ___ ___ ___ ___ - ___ ___ ___ ___ - ___ ___ ___ ___ Issue No (Switch only) _________________________ Start Date ___ ___ / ___ ___

Last three digits of Security No ___ ___ ___

Expiry Date ___ ___ / ___ ___

Please Note: Bookings are non-refundable. All bookings received will be acknowledged.

Return completed form to: Coolings Nurseries Ltd, Rushmore Hill, Knockholt, Kent, TN14 7NN

Stunning stately homes Gorgeous gardens Fascinating tours With Coolings you have a great opportunity to visit some beautiful landmarks across the country.

From day trips to long weekends, our excursions programme will have something to spark your interests.

EXCURSIONS

Enjoy grand days out

Grow your interests..

EVENTS

For more information, pick up our events and excursions brochure or see the events calendar on our website www.coolings.co.uk

Theatrical Performances Car Shows

Art Displays

Farmers’ Market Flower Exhibitions Craft Fairs

Talks & Demonstrations

30 Cuttings from Coolings

Occasions not to be missed!

Throughout the year Coolings plays host to a diverse range of on-site events, so pay us a visit to find out why we are so much more than a garden centre.

Booking form

Events at Coolings Green & Pleasant Event

Date

BREAKFAST WITH THE EXPERTS: WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY WITH KATE RADCLIFFE

Tuesday 23 Sep, 8am

£10 per person inc. breakfast

FOOD NIGHT IN BLUEBERRY CAFÉ: CURRY NIGHT

Thursday 23 Oct 6.30pm-9.30pm

£19.99 per person inc. 3-course meal

FOOD NIGHT IN BLUEBERRY CAFÉ: NOSTALGIA NIGHT

Thursday 11 Nov 6.30pm-9.30pm

£19.99 per person inc. 3-course meal

Children’s Workshops & Tours

Date

BUILD A BIRD BOX WORKSHOP

Tuesday 28 Oct, 11am

£9.99 per child* inc. bird box

HALLOWEEN TEA & SPOOKY TORCHLIGHT TOUR OF THE NATURE TRAIL

Thursday 30 Oct, 5pm

£9.99 per child* inc. tea and torch

HALLOWEEN COOKIE WORKSHOP

Friday 31 Oct, 10am-12 noon

£9.99 per child* inc. lunch

Storytelling for Under 5’s

Date

No. of Tickets

No. of Tickets

HANDA’S SURPRISE

Thursday 15 Sep

I WILL NEVER, NOT EVER EAT A TOMATO

Thursday 23 Oct

THE THREE BILLY GOATS GRUFF

Thursday 27 Nov

* Please Note: All children must be accompanied by an adult For further details on any of our excursions please see our website www.coolings.co.uk.events

Cost

Cost

No. of Tickets

Cost

10am 11am 12pm 1:30pm

£4.50 per child* inc. lunch

10am 11am 12pm 1:30pm

£4.50 per child* inc. lunch

10am 11am 12pm 1:30pm

£4.50 per child* inc. lunch

Total Cost £

Your Information Print Name (Mr/Mrs/Ms/Miss) .................................................................... Signed.........................................................................

Address .................................................................................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................................. ............................ ............................ .........

Postcode ......................................................Telephone Number ......................................................................................................

Email .........................................................................................................................................................................................................

Your details will only be used by Coolings Green & Pleasant Ltd and will not be passed to any third parties.

I enclose a cheque for £ ______________________________ (payable to Coolings Green & Pleasant Ltd) *Or please debit my VISA/VISA DEBIT/MASTERCARD/MASTERCARD DEBIT* (*delete as appropriate) Card No ___ ___ ___ ___ - ___ ___ ___ ___ - ___ ___ ___ ___ - ___ ___ ___ ___ Issue No (Switch only) _________________________ Start Date ___ ___ / ___ ___

Last three digits of Security No ___ ___ ___

Expiry Date ___ ___ / ___ ___

Please Note: Bookings are non-refundable. All bookings received will be acknowledged.

Return completed form to: Coolings Green & Pleasant, Main Road, Knockholt, Kent TN14 7LJ

Cuttings from Coolings 31

AutuNmanture Trail on the

WORDS: John Poland

N

ow that autumn has arrived on the Nature Trail there is a noticeable frenzy of activity as all the birds and animals start to make their preparations for the winter. This year the mild spring has meant an abundance of wild fruit, nuts and berries for them to forage. The blackberries were particularly good – I just hope a few were left for the birds!

Summer migrant species of bird will feed up until achieving their ideal weight, before disappearing on their long journeys to sunnier climes. Towards the end of September winter thrushes will start to arrive to take their place. Other animals, such as squirrels, make use of the autumn glut by busying themselves collecting and burying beech and hazel nuts for later use in the winter. A few nuts may well be missed and grow into trees, but it always amazes me just how good the squirrels are at finding their hidden caches. (They used to have an easy option – storing peanuts

32 Cuttings from Coolings

in an owl box, but this has now finally fallen to pieces!) Small mammals, such as voles and mice, are due a bit of a bonanza as well; all the bark put on the pathways has created the ideal conditions for an abundant growth of fungi as it gradually decays. You can often see teeth marks in the caps of the mushrooms dotted around the Trail. (Gardeners who use bark on flower beds may notice an increased amount of mushrooms popping up too.)

Now is the ideal time of year to put up new bird boxes and clean out old ones. Bird boxes provide excellent winter roosting opportunities for birds prior to the start of the breeding season next year.

Our Head Ranger, Steven, will be holding a bird box workshop on Tuesday 28th October at 11am. Spaces are limited so I would advise you to book early! See page 28 for more details.

Memory

In Loving WORDS: MATT MUSKETT

A

memorial or commemorative bench is an ideal way to remember a loved one, particularly if it’s in a spot they visited often and enjoyed. A traditional memorial bench is one like any other except it is situated so as to commemorate someone’s life. This will usually be through some form of attached memorial plaque mentioning the name of the deceased and other relevant information – perhaps the dates of their birth and death or the reason the bench is sited where it is.

It may be that your bench is intended as part of a personal memory garden – to be located in your own back yard. In which case your bench can be to your exact requirements in whatever colour or style you please.

HAPPILY EVER AFTER…. Benches make great wedding or anniversary gifts, too!

Inscriptions can be engraved into the wood or on a brass plaque

Or is there a location which has a special meaning or relevance to the deceased? It may be the cemetery in which they are buried, or the place you scattered their ashes. Perhaps during their lifetime they (or both of you) had a special connection with a specific group or area. Maybe there was a favourite park or woodland walk where they used to spend their time. Or maybe they were a member of a group, club or organization which has already benefitted over the years from their time and input. What better place to remember and commemorate them?

Here at Coolings Green & Pleasant we have an extensive range of benches and seats to choose from. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will guide you through the process of selecting your bench and deciding if a brass or stainless steel plaque is best for your inscription, or maybe engraved directly into the wood.

Bench prices start at £235 and we can arrange delivery either to your home, or if appropriate direct to the location where your bench is to be sited.

If you wish to place your bench in a public place, contact your local authority (district council) for further advice.

Cuttings from Coolings 33

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WORDS: Melissa Clark

T

he lovely summer weather we’ve enjoyed this year has allowed us to really make the most of Blueberry Café’s patio area, nothing beats dining al fresco on a warm, sunny day. In July we also enjoyed an evening outside for “Jazz on the Patio” with the Ray Rich Band. The glorious sunset, delicious barbecue and mellow music all added up to a wonderful evening and we’re delighted so many of you were able to join us. Although the season’s changing and evenings becoming too chilly to sit outside, we’re continuing our themed “Food Nights at Blueberry Café” programme, with “Curry Night” on 23rd October, and “Nostalgia Night” on 11th November. Menus for both evenings are available in store and on our website (www.coolings.co.uk), together with booking details.

Looking further ahead, our ever-popular Christmas Lunches will be available from Monday 1st to Friday 19th December. We will be taking bookings from 1st October and I’d recommend early booking to avoid disappointment! We’re also offering

Christmas Afternoon Teas this year and if you’ve received this edition of Cuttings from Coolings magazine by post you’ll find a voucher giving you 25% off Christmas Afternoon Tea if you book early – definitely worth a look!

All the Blueberry Café team look forward to welcoming you soon.

Christmas Best at

Ever!

green & pleasant the natural place to visit

Our team have been researching, sourcing, trying, tasting and testing a huge array of fabulous Christmas decorations, cards, wrapping, calendars, books, diaries, gifts, gadgets, kitchenware and delicious Christmas food so we can bring you our Best Christmas Ever!

We’re also planning some extra special events and activities, along with Christmas Lunches and Christmas Afternoon Teas in Blueberry Café.

Of course, Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a visit from Santa, who has a stunning new home hidden in the depths of the Nature Trail.

Full details of our Christmas Events Programme, including how to book, will be available in-store and on our website from 1st October, be sure to visit and get your copy!

www.coolings.co.uk 36 Cuttings from Coolings

Afternoon Tea at

WORDS: KRIS DOUGLAS

W

e pride ourselves on making all our cakes, pastries, tarts, pies and desserts in-house, so we would like to share something new we are offering.

Here at Arthurs we are proud to introduce our own take on a quintessential British experience. Our garden-themed Afternoon Tea is unique to Coolings, bringing hints of the outdoor garden centre inside for you to enjoy.

The menu offers guests a selection of teas, finger sandwiches with a variety of fillings, delicate pastries, cakes and our signature scones with Devonshire clotted cream and strawberry preserve.

Afternoon tea will be served Monday to Friday from 2.30pm, allowing guests plenty time to enjoy this wonderful experience.

Price ÂŁ15.00 per person.

Don’t forget to book in advance so we can prepare a fabulous feast just for you.

Tel: 01959-532269

Conifer

COMBINATIONS WORDS: RICHARD GILLHAM

CONIFER

Conifers are widely known for their decorative forms, textures and colours and can be used in conjunction with a whole manner of different combinations.

The possibilities are endless; below I have listed a few of my favourites which will enhance most garden situations.

For example, Conifer + Companion Plants = A Conifer Combination, adding style to your garden.

COMPANION PLANTS

CONIFER COMBINATION

Cryptomeria japonica, Chamaecyparis obtusa, Pinus mugo (Mountain Pine)

Dwarf Rhododendron, Evergreen Azaleas, Heathers and Alpines

A stunning rockery or Japanese garden, especially in spring, when accompanied by a water feature, large rockery stones and shingle

Fastigiate conifers (narrow columnar habits) such as Juniperus scopulorum ‘Blue Arrow’, Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’, Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Columnaris’ or ‘Yvonne’

Evergreen shrubs and Herbaceous perennials with contrasting foliage/ flower colours, such as Photinia fraseri ‘Red Robin’, Ceanothus (Californian Lilac), Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’, Pittosporum or Heuchera

A mixed border, punctuated with year round structure and colour

Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Minima Aurea’ or Thuja occidentalis ‘Golden Tuffet’

Trailing alpines, such as Campanula (Bell Flower) or Ivy. Use J. Arthur Bowers MultiPurpose Compost with added John Innes in black or metallic contemporary planters

Stylish and modern containers which add yearround interest and colour

Cupressus macrocarpa ‘Wilma’

Red annual bedding plants such as Polyanthus (winter)

Instant height to a stunning bedding scheme contrasting bright acid green foliage and vibrant red flowers

So experiment with conifers and their many uses! Don’t forget to plant with Tree & Shrub Compost (unless in a container) and feed with vitax Q4 every spring. If you are in need of further planting or design advice why not pay a visit to our Planting and Design team here at Coolings.

38 Cuttings from Coolings

AUTUMN GARDEN

Tidy Up

Garden Design

Price £300

A tailor made garden can be truly inspirational use our design service to help turn your garden dreams into reality

Summer can take it’s toll on our gardens, and we know better than most that they need a little T.L.C. to get them set for winter. Luckily our garden maintenance team have their coats and wellies on standby, ready to pay your garden a visit. your garden for a day and perform all those gardening tasks and chores that you can’t

LAWN CARE We know that a perfect lawn takes a lot of hard work, but if you don’t know where to begin, Coolings can help. We can give one-off treatments to your lawn to give it the boost it needs, or we can provide ongoing, regular maintenance to keep it looking it’s absolute best.

Prices from £35 per hour

FIND OUT MORE...

If you would like to know more about our gardening services or would like to make a booking, please contact Lesley or Neil at The Gardener’s Garden Centre on 01959Cuttings 532269. from Coolings 39

In Store Now Offers valid whilst stocks last, offers finish on 31 October 2014

Knockholt, Kent, TN14 7NN 01959 532269

www.coolings.co.uk Valid Until 24/12/2014

Free Suet Ball

Bird Feeder Pack

Valid at:

COOLINGS

The Gardener’s Garden Centre I IS GROWING T H E PE EXPERIENCE

Offer valid 1 September – 24 December 2014 inclusive, whilst stocks last. Only 1 voucher per transaction. No cash alternative, Not valid with a trade card or any other offer.

COOLINGS

The Gardener’s Garden Centre THE EXPERIENCE IS GROWING

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40 Cuttings from Coolings For full Terms and Conditions please see www.coolings.co.uk or ask in-store