Cuttings Spring 2012

Cuttings FREE

FROM COOLINGS

Garden Tips Colour your Summer with Coolings’ Bedding plants Study with Us

SPRING 2012

green & pleasant the natural place to visit

welcome to Coolings Cold Winters With another hard winter behind us we are still assessing what has survived and what has not. Sometimes the new shoots do not show themselves until May, and even then they may be below ground. Any plants that have survived the last three winters are likely to be strong and healthy, but if you find there are gaps where some haven’t made it and you need to inject some new life into your garden, this season we have our biggest-ever selection for you to choose from. For inspiration, take a look at our display gardens. At The Gardener’s Garden Centre, the garden behind Arthur’s is being re-landscaped using plants from our own Production Nursery so you can see some of our very best plants in a proper garden setting.

Waste Not, Want Not These cold winters have intensified the debate over global warming and the continued use of our planet’s resources. Whatever your view on climate change, most people agree that re-using and recycling resources wherever possible makes sound economic and ecological sense, and at Coolings I am delighted that despite a 20% increase in our business we are now sending less waste to landfill than 5 years ago.

Friends of the Nature Trail We have been overwhelmed by the level of support for the Friends of the Nature Trail Scheme. The daily charge is modest, but for those likely to visit the Trail more than four times a year an Annual Pass is excellent value.

See page 6 for details of how to join the Scheme. The new “woolly” Mangalitza pigs have been a star attraction since the start of the year, and lambs are expected in April. Watch out too for joeys in the pouches of mummy wallabies.

Celebrations 2012 is set to be a year of celebrations for many, with The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee leading the way. Coolings are proud to be sponsoring the creation of a “living crown” which will be

2 Cuttings from Coolings

on display in Bromley as part of the Borough’s special Jubilee celebrations, and will be viewed

by Her Majesty when she visits the town on 15th May. Later in the summer the Olympic Games will be held in London, too. Look out for our special “Best of British”-themed displays throughout the spring and summer at both sites, with a great range of plants and gifts to help you set the scene for your own celebrations.

New Developments 2012 is also set to be a year of development here at Coolings. Already Arthur’s kitchen has undergone a major overhaul giving more workspace for delicious food to be freshly prepared to order. In addition, a new servery is also planned for December.

A new planning application has been submitted to Sevenoaks District Council for a remodelling of the Shop at The Gardener’s Garden Centre, which has already reached its 21st birthday. If all goes smoothly, work will commence this autumn.

Our Production Nursery is undergoing some updating too, with additional staff and rearrangement of the space to allow increased production and an even greater range of plants.

At Coolings Green & Pleasant exciting new ranges of both traditional and contemporary gifts and garden furniture are now available, with the introduction of further new items planned throughout the season.

The Coolings School of Horticulture also continues to grow, see page 34 for details of the range of courses on offer.

All these developments, improvements and projects are exciting, but of course the most exciting project of all is your own garden.

Whatever your gardening plans for this year, large or small, the Coolings team is here to help and we look forward to welcoming you soon.

g Paul Coolin

Chairman

Coolings

Contents 9

Lavender, the Facts

38

Plant Doctor

36

Jubilee Gift Ideas

48

4 Design & Planting Services 5 A Tribute to Sandra 6 Nature Trail News 8 Garden Tips 9 Plant Doctor 10 Our Favourites 11 At Long Last!

12 Book Corner 13 Super Foods 14 The Great British

Grill – BBQs for all 16 Colour your

Summer with

Coolings’ Bedding plants 18 How to Plant a

Hanging Basket

How to Compose a Japanese Garden 20 Easy Shrubs for the

Summer Months 22 Relax and Enjoy:

Furniture Special 26 Events 28 Meet the Experts 30 Green & Pleasant

Scenes Photography

Competition 2011 32 Coolings’ Trips 34 Study with Us 36 Jubilee Gift Ideas 37 Purple the Colour of Royalty 38 Lavender, the Facts Cover shot: © ‘Cynthia cardui on Lavender’

By Alexandre Dulaunoy

40 Olympics and

Diamond Jubilee 41 Enticing Butterflies

and Bees 42 Blueberry Café 45 Arthur’s Spring News 46 Plant Focus 48 How to Compose a

Japanese Garden 51 Plant Doctor, Down Under 52 Arthur’s Garden: A

New Look 53 Coolings’ Festival of

Summer Herbs &

Edible Flowers 54 Make a Piggy Bank 55 Meet the Staff

Cuttings from Coolings 3

Design &planting Services Garden Design Consultation

Planting Service

To help you achieve the best possible look for your garden, we offer professional advice and proposals for layout and planting.

For £75 a qualified, experienced Garden Designer will visit you to discuss your requirements and make suggestions on ways in which you could develop your garden, dependent upon site restraints, personal preferences and budget. A typical consultation lasts one hour and will provide you with ideas and information to move the project in the right direction.

Should you require more time at the consultation or further detailed drawings for planting purposes, additional charges will be incurred but these will be discussed with you once the scope of the project has been ascertained. Our garden designers are freelance and have worked with us for a number of years.

Plants recommended and used in any scheme will be supplied by Coolings, many of which are covered by our Hardy Plant Guarantee for 5 years.

Coolings will be happy to plant most things from borders to just a single tree. Included in the price of planting trees is a product named Root Grow which is a naturally occurring mycorrhizal fungi. This product will help the plant establish quicker by increasing the active root area by 700 times and giving it better drought tolerance. Included in the price for larger trees is a pipe for ease of watering.

Coolings’ Planting Service is available within the following postcodes:

For more information on the above service, or to make an appointment, please telephone Lesley on 01959 532269 or email designservice@coolings.co.uk

DA 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 14, 15, 16.

SE 9, 12.

TN 13, 14, 15, 16.

BR 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.

Cost of this service is £45 per man hour.

We are very proud of the standard of the service we offer and often get comments from customers: “I am very satisfied with this service and hope to use it again, as I am not able to do it all myself.”

For more information on the above service, or to make an appointment, please telephone Lesley on 01959 532269 or email plantingservice@coolings.co.uk.

Warning: Sun Burns – Be Safer in the Sun There is growing evidence that sun protection is being taken seriously by many as there are well-documented health threats from dangerous UV rays * UV PROTECTION

UPF 50+ •�UV exposure varies with the time of day and time of year.

•�In the UK, UV radiation is most intense in summer from 11am to 3pm.

•�Holloway’s rule: when your shadow is shorter than your height, you are more likely to burn.

•�In the UK, sun protection is most important from April to September.

Glatz make UV protection parasols with UPF50+ rating.

Ask us for more information about Glatz UV Protection Parasols. * Item by courtesy of Garden Trade News

Sun Burns Article GTN [Feb 2012].indd 1

4 Cuttings from Coolings

22/02/2012 10:30:45

A

Tribute to one of the most

WORDS: Gary Carvosso, Managing Director

Sixteen years ago in May a new member of staff joined the Coolings team. Little did anyone appreciate how big an impact this gregarious and energetic lady called Sandra would have on the business, which had not long been through the upheaval of relocating from Chislehurst. Very soon her energy and huge experience in the hospitality industry came to bear on a project still in its planning stage at that time, “Arthur’s Coffee Shop”.

S

andra’s professionalism, pro-active and positive approach to her working life helped shape the new venture. In March 1997 “Arthurs” opened with a small team led by Sandra. The Coffee Shop grew quickly, and after a couple of years Sandra handed the day-to-day running over to the Catering Team. She then turned her attention to liaising with the Royal Horticultural Society with a view to offering customers the opportunity to study for the RHS General Horticulture Certificate (Levels 1 and 2). Needless to say, under Sandra’s tenacious administration negotiations with the RHS were successful and Tessa Allen, who still delivers the courses today, was engaged. Both courses are now running at full capacity, with every place taken this year, and we are keen to build on Sandra’s success in this area.

More recently, Sandra’s input as editor of our Cuttings from Coolings magazine ensured its success, and the foundations of the new design were again laid by her.

Time spent as an advocate for cancer-related charities was an important part of Sandra’s life. Cancer Research UK has become a regular benefactor through events at Coolings due to Sandra’s enthusiasm, along with the Primrose Centre, in Farnborough, Kent.

Those of us privileged to count Sandra as a friend know just how important family was to her, and how proud she was of her children and grandchildren. When her grandson was ill Sandra was a tower of strength, and also used her fundraising talents to benefit the Anthony

Nolan Trust which supported him through his treatment.

Despite having battled with life-threatening cancer herself, and beating it twice over two decades, Sandra was well known for her cheerful and encouraging approach to others. I’m sure many people who remember the care and interest shown by Sandra were unaware of the serious health issues that troubled her.

In the summer of 2011 Sandra’s health deteriorated and she was admitted to hospital for an operation. During her extended stay Sandra kept in close contact with the Coolings team, keen to ensure the plans she had made for the staff summer outing went ahead. We spent a delightful evening on a Thames river boat enjoying the sights of London. Sandra had organised every last detail, including a delicious meal, and the evening was made complete when we sailed right past the window of her hospital room and caught a glimpse of her waving.

During her stay in hospital intensive treatment for aggressive cancer was undertaken for the third time. To us Sandra was a fighter and we fully expected to welcome her back to Coolings in the new year, but sadly that wasn’t to be. On November 4th 2011, a week after her birthday, with much grace and dignity Sandra gave up her fight.

It was a joy and privilege to work alongside Sandra, and we will always remember all that made her special. The legacy of her work here at Coolings will continue in “Arthur’s”, the RHS courses, and of course Cuttings magazine.

Cuttings from Coolings 5

News from the

Here on the Nature Trail we took part in the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch at the end of January.

Birds spotted by our staff and visitors included:

Blackbird, Blue Tit, Brambling, Bullfinch, Chaffinch, Collared Dove, Dunnock, Greater Spotted Woodpecker, Great Tit, Greenfinch, Green Woodpecker, Grey Wagtail, Goldcrest, Goldfinch, Heron, Jackdaw, Jay, Long-Tailed Tit, Magpie, Mallard, Moorhen, Nuthatch, Parakeet, Pheasant, Pied Wagtail, Red-legged Partridge, Redwing, Robin, Song Thrush, Starling, Tawny Owl, Treecreeper, Tree Sparrow, Wren, Wood Pigeon.

know?

Did you

Our Chicken Run is home to 16 hybrid hens, who are busy keeping the kitchen of Blueberry Café supplied with lovely fresh eggs.

Our Wallaby Troupe currently numbers 15, including 2 joeys born last year. There may be some new joeys later this summer; watch out for little faces peeping out the top of the pouch!

We introduced the pair of Farmyard Geese and the pair of Aylesbury Ducks to our ponds, but the Moorhens and Mallards are wild.

Our new Picnic Area (just through the stone arch, beside Blueberry Field) has proved popular. Why not try one of our delicious Picnic Packs from Blueberry Café?

Choose from a range of sandwiches and salads, or a take-away soup to keep you warm on cooler days. Hot and cold drinks, including Costa Coffee, are also available to take away, along with a great selection of cakes, biscuits, fresh fruit, crisps and snacks.

Friends of the Nature Trail Just £12 will buy you an annual pass for FREE ENTRY to the Nature Trail for a whole year – that’s just £1 a month for as many free visits as you like! Friends of the Nature Trail will receive free monthly updates of Nature Trail news, and an exclusive invitation to attend a free seasonal guided tour of the Trail with one of our expert rangers four times a year (spring, summer, autumn and winter). Visit today and ask a member of staff for a membership form.

annual pass

Day Ticket

Adult

£12.00

Adult

£3.00

Senior

£6.00

Senior

£1.50

Child

£6.00

Child

£1.50

Under 5s

FREE

Under 5s

FREE

Family (2 adults and up to 3 children)

£30.00

Family (2 adults and up to 3 children)

£7.50

you need for your pond!

PONDS

WATERFALLS

PLANTS

PUMPS

FILTERS

AQUATIC COMPOST

POND LINERS

WATER FEATURES

FISH FOOD

AND OF COURSE, FISH

www.wealdaquatics.co.uk/ponds Weald Aquatics is at Coolings Green & Pleasant Main Road, Knockholt, TN14 7LJ. 01959 532 963

We are really looking forward to the pond season this year at Weald Aquatics. We’ve put in a lot of effort over the winter to make sure that we’ve got everything ready and also to ensure that we really have got everything you will need for your pond whether you are just starting out or you’ve got an established pond. We’ve also built a display pond - come in and have a look.

We’re also pleased to announce that we now stock the excellent range of Bermuda products

including solar-powered lighting, air pumps and fountains as well as their hand-sculptured waterfalls.

This is what one of our customers said about our pond plants last year and we haven’t rested on our laurels - we’ve doubled the number of pond plants this year whilst retaining the excellence in quality (and of course, price) with weekly deliveries of fresh plants.

The excellent Bermuda range is now in stock

Add to all that our top customer service (the mystery shopper has given us 100% on every visit!) and free, friendly advice and we hope you’ll agree that Weald is the place to come for all your pond requirements.

We look forward to seeing you at the shop soon!

We’re doubling the number of plants this year

April • Plant evergreen trees, shrubs and conifers this month • Spray roses to control black spot with product such as Rose Clear Ultra • Sow or turf lawns • Feed established lawns

May • Protect bedding plants if frosts are forecast early in the month • Fleece carrots to protect from carrot fly • Continue sowing vegetables • Prune spring-flowering shrubs that have flowered

June • Take cuttings from pinks • Shade and ventilate the greenhouse

• Liquid-feed tired lawns with Evergreen Spray & Feed or other lawn feed • Remove blanket weed and duckweed from ponds regularly

July • Take semi-ripe cuttings from shrubs • Lift onions and garlic • Summer-prune wisteria • Harvest herbs for drying

Garden

WORDS: Mark Reeve

8 Cuttings from Coolings

Mark Reeve

Can I reduce the amount of duckweed that is covering my pond? I did not introduce it and it’s spreading very fast!

Duckweed is very invasive and can double the area it covers in several days in summer.

It often gets accidentally introduced on new plants or waterfowl. There is no chemical control available to the amateur so netting or scooping out the weed is the only effective way of reducing the problem. Shading the surface with other plants such as water lilies will reduce the surface area, which will also help.

Grass carp will eat duckweed and so will ducks and moorhens.

My apples seem to suffer from an insect that tunnels through the skin of the fruit. Can you tell me what this is and if I can prevent it?

This is Apple Sawfly which will affect the apples at the very early fruitlet stage.

A lot of the marked fruit will drop off in June when there is a natural thinning of the fruit. If you thin the badly affected fruitlets then this will prevent the spread and lessen the chance of the larvae pupating in the soil.

My pear tree has raised blisters of a reddish pink colour on the leaves. They turn black later in the summer. What is causing this?

This is Pear Blister Mite. If you only have a few leaves affected then picking off the worst will control this pest. Generally it is only a cosmetic problem as it has little bearing on the tree’s fruit production.

I think I have horsetail in my border, and I believe it is difficult to control?

You are correct – it is very difficult but not impossible! Horsetail or Mare’s tail is a prehistoric plant with a root system that may go several metres underground. It has a creeping rhizome that spreads rapidly over the surface too. Removal by hand is very difficult and time-consuming. Chemical control with products containing glyphosate, such as Roundup, is more effective although several treatments will be required over several years. If you bruise the stems with a rake or fork this will help with the chemical uptake. Apply when growth is strong in late summer.

Cuttings from Coolings 9

Tomorite and Miracle-Gro Bloom Booster are High Potash feeds which will help your plant flower as on pages 38/39 for lavenders.

Osmocote Plant Food Tablets are a slow-release feed which last all season – for use in containers as on pages 38/39.

£3.99 £5.99

£4.99

Our Put Bee Boxes to put in your garden for leafcutter bees to lay their eggs in – see page 41.

£19.99 Grit/ Coarse Grit is used for mixing with compost for drainage or to top-dress containers – see pages 38/39.

£1.99

Keep it hot in the Garden! with Kadai Fire Bowls.

See pages 14/15 for more great barbecue ideas, including Top Tips for Brilliant Barbecued Food and Matt’s Favourite BBQ Recipes.

From £159

Feed the Birds with this Jacobi Jayne “Squirrel Buster”. See our new and improved Bird Care section at Coolings Green & Pleasant for everything you need to keep your feathered friends content.

£34.99

Decorate your Jubilee Party with Talking Tables Partyware.

See page 36 for more Best of British Jubilee From Gift ideas.

Dine Al Fresco in Style this Summer with Westminster “Grand” set See pages 22/23 for details of our fantastic furniture range, perfect for your garden this season.

I am sure that many of you will remember Murphy’s Tumbleweed gel that disappeared off our shelves some time ago. It was a very popular product and customers still come in asking for it, or if there is an alternative. Well, I have some news for you. A new product from Scotts called Roundup Gel is now available in store WORDS: Brian Archibald

Roundup Gel is a revolution in weed control. Many gardeners don’t use weedkiller sprays or watering cans as there is a risk of damaging surrounding plants, so they end up resorting to trying to dig them out. The problem with this is that if you do not get the entire root out then the weed may well re-grow and so you are back to square one.

Roundup Gel is perfect for solving this problem due to its unique formulation and design. The gel formulation sticks to the leaf and stays there so there is no danger of dripping or running off onto surrounding plants.

Roundup Gel kills weeds from the inside, right down to the roots, as it is systemic and weeds can’t grow back.

And because it only works inside the plant this leaves the soil untouched and free for planting straight away.

£4.49 Miracle-Gro have just launched a new product for dog owners to deal with brown patches where their dogs urinate on the lawn.

It is called Patch Magic Dog Spot Repair and is based on their successful Patch Magic Range. It contains grass seed plus gypsum and coir to ensure great grass establishment and growth. The addition of the gypsum minimises the effects of salts from the dog urine so the grass seed can germinate.

Treats up to 130 spots (based on a 16cm diameter).

£4,399 Cuttings from Coolings 11

Book

Spring and summer, when our gardens start sprouting life and colour, are my favourite seasons of the year. To make the most of your flowers and herbs, take inspiration from these great new books WORDS: Katie Christie

Check out page 46 and 47 to discover a great way to grow fruit with flowers

If you have problems bringing colour into a small garden or just have a boring patio area, the book Quick and Easy Container Gardening by Tessa Evelegh is worth a look. It has 20 step-by-step projects for flower, fruit and vegetable containers and ingenious ideas of ways to re-use many household items, including old tea cups! There are also basic tips and advice on how to care for your containers. This is the perfect book for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike, with wonderful colour photographs to inspire you this summer.

Check out page 93 for a brilliant a microallotment idea

Check out page 222 for a great Lavender IceCream recipe!

12 Cuttings from Coolings

I highly recommend Hanging Baskets by Stephanie Donaldson. Inside there are 50 ideas on how to create all kinds of hanging baskets, from small to large. To complement this there are over 500 superb quality photos. This book contains clearly identifies all the plants used and contains easy-tofollow, step-by-step instructions. There is also information on care and maintenance, and how to choose the best spot to display your amazing hanging baskets.

Thought about growing herbs? The Hamlyn Herb Book by Arabella Boxer is a comprehensive guide to herbs. This hardback features a complete directory explaining 50 or more herbs, each with a photograph, as well as a huge variety of new ideas on growing and cooking herbs. In addition, there are over 170 mouth-watering recipes to choose from.

Grow your own WORDS: Richard Gillham With the London 2012 Olympics only weeks away, now is a great time to turn your attention to good health and general wellbeing. Including “superfoods� in a balanced diet is one step towards achieving this, so why not try growing some of our favourite fruits, vegetables and nuts listed below?

Variety

Sprouts

Carrots

Beetroot Garlic Blueberries Strawberries Black/Red Grapes Walnuts

health benefits

A good source of fibre, rich in vitamin C and full of protein (unlike most veg) Help you to see in the dark! Carrots contain vitamin A, beta carotene and lutein which help maintain good vision Beetroot juice is known to help lower blood pressure Garlic is known to improve circulation, digestion and boost the immune system Full of antioxidants and vitamin C

Availability at coolings

Seed and plants available now for harvesting throughout autumn and winter Seeds and plants available now, however it is advisable to sow seed direct into the soil and thin where necessary See carrots above Bulbs available for planting between November and February (plant cloves individually). Harvest in summer Plants available now. Plant two or more plants for a good harvest

Help the brain and nervous system to Plants available now function Full of antioxidants. When I see these Plants available now I think of red wine!

Trees available to order from late Full of omega 3 (the plant-derived autumn. Will need plenty of space to form) grow Cuttings from Coolings 13

The

Great

Barbecues aren’t just for the Outback! Outdoor cooking has come a long way in recent years and barbecuing means so much more than the old “burnt bangers and burgers” of days gone by.

Modern barbecues offer a range of sophisticated cooking styles alongside the traditional grill, and there are some great barbecue recipes available, too. From simple steaks and tasty vegetable dishes through to delicious desserts, almost anything can be cooked on a barbecue if you know how, even your Christmas turkey! Speak to Matt Muskett, our BBQ Expert, to find the best barbecue for you, or use the ideas below for inspiration

Grill

WORDS: MATTHEW MUSKETT, BBQ EXPERT

Out and about The portable Weber Smokey Joe® is perfect for days out, small and light enough to take just about anywhere, but with enough grilling space to feed the family – just grab it and go!

£59.99

Everyday cooking The BeefEater 900 series 3 burner is ready, steady and cooks to perfection. With a sturdy enamelled body and hood plus a removable warming rack, this barbecue can handle whatever comes its way.

£475.00

Pizza Perfection The Weber Original™ Charcoal Pizza Oven Set is a great new way to enjoy an old family favourite. Using less fuel and space than a traditional wood-fired stove, this fabulous oven cooks pizzas in a matter of minutes, giving authentic stone-baked flavours.

£179.99

Outdoor Kitchen The BeefEater Discovery 1100 Series Plus is the ultimate Outdoor Kitchen, ideal for those times when you really do need everything including the kitchen sink! Featuring a 4-burner barbecue, a sink cabinet and a side-burner cabinet, this one’s sure to impress even the most discerning of barbecue connoisseurs.

£1,999.00

TOP Tips for Brilliant Barbecued Food!

• Place food on a hot rack in the centre of the grill.

It will stick at first, then become looser when the

food is seared.

• Slow-cooking food should be seared on the hottest

part of the grill then moved to the edges, or the

rack raised to cook slowly and thoroughly. Slow

cooking food includes meats and poultry.

• Fast-cooking food should be seared and cooked

on the hottest part of the grill. Fast cooking food

includes fish and vegetables.

• All food should be turned regularly (though if

it sticks, leave a little longer to sear properly

before turning), and ensure it is thoroughly cooked

all the way through before you serve it. A meat

probe is the best way to do this and allows you to

serve your cooked meat with confidence.

• Remember, you can do so much more than just grill

meat on your barbecue – why not come to one of

our Expert Demonstrations at Coolings Green &

Pleasant to find out more!

Matt’s Favourit e Family Barbec ue Recipes

Fuel Matters The great “charcoal versus gas” debate continues to perplex those looking to buy their first barbecue, but looking at the main advantages of each type then considering your own requirements should soon help you find the best barbecue for you. Our expert and knowledgeable staff are always on hand to assist and advise, so why wait? Make the most of the summer and start barbecuing today!

Charcoal Barbecues Charcoal barbecues are usually made from either cast iron or stainless steel, often with a porcelain enamel finish. The enamel protects the stainless steel and prevents rusting. Cooking grates made from stainless steel or nickel plated are best as they don’t rust and are easy to clean. Plastic or wooden handles are safer to use when the barbecue is hot.

A hinged grate is useful as it makes it easy to add more charcoal. You can also use smoking chips, or simply sprinkle the coals with herbs, to add great flavour to your cooking. Try Weber “Firespice” Trial Size Kits in four fabulous flavours: Hickory, Apple, Cherry and Beech – just £14.99.

Charcoal barbecues generally cost less to buy than gas barbecues.

Cooking on charcoal is considered by many to be more authentic and traditional than gas.

Charcoal barbecues are not always as easy to light as gas barbecues, but to many people lighting the charcoal adds to the fun! There are also some great accessories available to make the lighting process easier.

Gas barbecues are quick and easy to light, with almost instant heat.

900g Pork Tenderloin 3 tablespoons runny Honey 115ml yellow Mustard 2 tablespoons White Wine Vinegar teaspoon Cayenne Pepper

1.

2.

3.

4.

Cut the Pork into small cubes and place in an oven-proof dish.

Mix together the Honey, Mustard, White Wine Vinegar and Pepper.

Coat the Pork cubes in the Honey and Mustard mixture, cover and leave to marinade for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible.

Cook over direct heat for 10 minutes, turning the Pork regularly.

Grilled Banana S’Mores Topping:

Crust:

Gas Barbecues Gas barbecues are usually made from stainless steel, again often with a porcelain enamel finish for a durable, rust-free finish. Two or more burners will allow you to cook more than one dish at a time and other accessories, such as a rotisserie or griddle plate, will increase the cooking possibilities.

Pork with Honey and Mustard

The cooking temperature can be easily controlled and most gas barbecues will allow you to cook side dishes (such as pasta or rice) as well as grilling meat and fish.

Gas barbecues are easy to clean and store, although they often require more space than a charcoal barbecue.

2 unpeeled Bananas, cut lengthways 15g Butter melted with 1 tspn Sugar 400g Mini Marshmallows 75g Chocolate Chips 75g finely crumbled Digestive Biscuits, 50g melted Butter, small Egg Yolk

1.

Combine the Crust ingredients then press

the mixture into bottom of 20cmx20cm

baking tin, grill for 6-8 minutes until firm,

set aside to cool for 10 mins.

2.

Brush cut sides of Bananas with the Butter

and Sugar mix, then grill 2-4 mins without turning.

3.

Layer the Marshmallows, scooped out

Banana flesh and Chocolate Chips over

Crust, grill for 10 mins.

Cuttings from Coolings 15

Colour your with

Coolings’ Bedding Plants

WORDS: JON REBURN At Coolings we are proud of our reputation for selling a dazzling range of quality summer bedding plants. We grow the majority of the plants in our own nursery here in Knockholt. To celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics we know many people will really want to plant some pleasure and go to town on pots and hanging baskets this year. Dull borders can also be transformed with the addition of some beautiful bedding. Here is a taster of the fabulous plants we will be selling

Bye-bye Bizzies but hello begonias!

Last year the poor Busy Lizzie was badly affected by a new and currently incurable wind-borne fungal disease that is specific to them. As a result we were one of the first garden centres in this country to announce that we would not wish to sell our customers disappointment and as such have decided to stop selling bedding and double Busy Lizzies until further notice.

Please do not buy them elsewhere as there is a strong probability they could die this summer. But the good news is that larger-growing New Guinea impatiens are resistant to the disease and we will be selling these in pots and packs this season. We have also extended our range of begonias which are the perfect Busy Lizzie replacement in tubs and borders.

Get patriotic with your planting!

Red, white and blue will be popular choices for 2012.

Why not try...

White Euphorbia Diamond Frost – Great choice for the Diamond Jubilee year! A myriad of tiny “flowers” produced non-stop all summer. A total winner!

Blue Salvia – Perfect for adding height to the centre of a pot and lovely zesty scented foliage.

Geraniums and trailing geraniums in white and red – fabulous for a sunny spot.

Trailing verbena in shades of red, white and blue.

White and blue lobelia.

Petunias, trailing surfinias and million bells in colours of the Union Jack!

Begonias

Verbena

NEW for 2012! s Dahlietta Surprise Serie Dahlietta surprise

16 Cuttings from Coolings

Thunbergia

Annual climbers for adding another dimension to your garden Something different for tubs and hanging baskets Dichondra Silver Falls – long cascades of heart-shaped silver leaves ideal for hot sunny locations.

Cuphea Tiny Mice – fun little plant for tucking into planters, the flowers are said to resemble little mice!

Brachyscome – little blue daisy-like flowers on feathery foliage.

Nemesias and Diascias – dainty little flowers great as a pop-in plant.

An easy but often neglected way to inject some colour and height into the summer garden is to grow annual climbers. There are plenty to choose from so why not give them a go! Simply grow up garden canes, rustic poles or one of the ranges of beautiful obelisks available at Coolings.

Ipomoea (Morning Glory) are as the name says, glorious every morning! Easy to grow, but do not plant out until the cold nights have passed as they are sensitive to getting chilled.

Sweet Pea. Old favourites with scented blooms, ideal for picking. Spencer Mix contains the choicest mixture of varieties for fragrance.

Mina Lobata (Flame Climber) produces a phoenix-like display of burning colour. We sell hundreds every year!

Thunbergia (Black-eyed Susan) will scramble up to give a lovely display of black-eyed blooms.

Get creative with your bedding!

Bedding plants need not be used just in the traditional regimented way. Why not try a more relaxed planting scheme and experiment with different plants?

Nicotiana sylvestris is a truly scent-sational plant! Ideal for the back of beds or a shady location it can grow to five feet tall and fills the summer evenings with perfume from its lovely white flowers.

Cosmos is a great mixer plant to soften a bedding display. We sell compact varieties ideal for bedding out.

Cleome (spider flower) is another unusual taller bedding plant available at Coolings.

Brachyscome

Nicotiana sylvestris

Rhodochiton (Cigar climber) has really unusual tubular flowers and is worth growing for its novel beauty.

Asarina (Climbing Snapdragon). No one ever seems to have heard of this one! A really lovely short climber with beautiful pendant flowers. We sell the annual Mystic Series.

Cobaea scandens (Cup and Saucer vine) is another climber with really interesting flowers.

Climbing fuchsia Lady Boothby. Did you know there was a climbing fuchsia? The variety Lady Boothby climbs to five feet tall when grown against a fence and supported. Give it a try.

To obtain the best effect for your hanging basket, a few simple steps should be followed WORDS: NICKY PETO AND BARBARA CLARKE

ar size is First of all choose the basket you like, the most popul ctly. corre d 35cm (14”); this gives a really good display if plante If you have chosen a wire or metal basket decide whether you want to line it with moss or a ready-made liner. Anoth er good option is a solid plastic basket. These often have the added advantage of a water reservoir hidden in the base. sional Compost, Choose the compost: we suggest using our Profes For a 35cm ion. retent water adding phostrogen Swell Gel to aid ct mixed produ the of s scoop three (14”) basket you will need ost. comp the evenly with Next decide where your basket is to be sited – this will affect your choice of plants, as different plants suit different condi tions – e.g. geraniums do best in sun, fuchsias prefer a shadie r site. ing: one central For a 35cm (14”) basket you will need the follow g plants plus trailin main three a), fuchsi or upright plant, (a geranium obtain a to same the all be can (these plants g trailin three other trailer s main the but , symmetrical effect or different if you prefer y). should all be the same variet

Suggestions for a sunny site 1 x upright zonal geranium 3 x ivy leaf trailing geraniums 3 x trailing verbena

For a shadier site 1 x upright fuchsia 3 x trailing fuchsias 3 x million bells

It’s easier To plant your basket, ensure chosen liner is in place. t; bucke or pot large a in it stand to plant the basket if you ty. stabili with helps this so base ed round a have ts many baske Magic r Wate Fill the basket with compost with the added the other crystals, place upright plant centrally and then space all in these Press . chains the en betwe ately trailing plants altern t, baske the to firmly, now add some slow-release feed tablets press t,) baske size this for (four of these should be sufficient deep into the compost then water in well. d position – Your basket is now ready to hang in the desire has passed, frost of r remember not to put it out until all dange mid to end of May.

Key: Central upright plant Main trailing plant Other trailing plant

height of Be sure to keep your basket well watered. In the day. a twice water to sary neces be may it er summ could If you have a convenient outdoor tap nearby you This is timer. a with system tion -irriga install a simple micro to water ; ber remem to have don’t you se becau us tageo advan time cial benefi most this will be done automatically at the water lessen to ing, morn early or of day, e.g. late evening evaporation. regularly To keep your basket looking its best – dead-head le Mirac using st sugge we feed, and from mid July add extra y. weekl Gro liquid feed g If you need further advice or help in planting hangin offer also We ation. inform more for us baskets please ask the have not do you if e servic t baske g hangin ke a bespo time to plant your own.

Shrubs Easy

for the

Getting the best display of colour over the whole summer can be a challenge for any gardener. Here’s a selection of shrubs that will keep your garden looking its best through the warmer months.

months WORDS: Toby Davies

May Syringa or lilac is a great shrub or small tree for most gardens. Normally available in colours ranging from white to deep purple. Syringas are renowned for their scent, and most cultivars are wonderfully scented. There are even some dwarf varieties which you can grow in containers.

They thrive in well-drained soils including shallow chalk. Fantastic for butterflies!

June Cistus are great evergreen shrubs, especially suited to a sunny site. Not only do they start flowering at this time of year but some will flower for most of the summer in white and shades of pink. Great on dry, difficult soils.

July Hardy fuchsias are starting to look their best at this time of year and are one of the most popular shrubs at Coolings. Once the flowers appear they will go on until the weather really gets chilly, sometimes this can be as late as December. Fuchsias are versatile and very easy to grow; they are also good for growing in shade.

Here at Coolings we have probably the widest range of shrubs available in the south-east, so visit us today and find the perfect shrub for your garden.

August Lavender angustifolia is looking really good now, probably our most popular shrub species and definitely a garden favourite. Some cultivars like L. Hidcote or L. Munstead are extremely popular but there are five or more regularly available at Coolings. They like warm sunny gardens and well drained soil and are great for adding that Mediterranean feel.

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Cuttings from Coolings 21

WORDS: Tony Wenzel, Furniture Department Manager Here at Coolings we all love gardening and for most of us a spare moment or two means time for a quick spot of planting, pruning or weeding. But even the most dedicated gardeners need time to take a step back and admire the fruits of their labour, and sharing the beautiful garden you’ve grown makes all that hard work worthwhile. Whether the garden you’ve created is a small, intimate haven or a huge pleasure park, the right furniture can enhance your garden no end and turn it into a space you will enjoy all year round, whatever the weather.

W

ith so many different types and styles of garden furniture available, it’s worth spending some time considering how you want to use your garden – will it be a quiet, relaxing place to escape from the hustle and bustle of a busy world, or an outdoor room for entertaining? A sleek and sophisticated space for grown-ups, or a family affair with room to play? Visit Coolings Green & Pleasant today and let one of our expert advisors help you find the perfect match for all your garden furniture needs.

Dining al fresco may be anything from a simple picnic for two to a grand formal dinner for ten, so the right table and chairs will help you to set the tone.

A small bistro set with folding chairs may be perfect for an intimate corner, whilst an elegant glass-topped table with upholstered seating and a matching parasol can bring an air of sophistication to a deck or patio.

A garden used for entertaining will require plenty of seating. A mix of benches and chairs offers good flexibility, allowing groups of seats in different areas of the garden. For truly sumptuous comfort, take a look at the latest ranges of outdoor “deep seating”, stylish modular sofas and corner units in hardwearing weather-proof materials with luxurious deep cushions. These work well in creating that “outdoor room” feel, and are

22 Cuttings from Coolings

great for surrounding a barbecue or fire pit as the focus of your entertaining area.

A strategically placed bench or chair and a side table can give an instant lift to a less-used part of the garden, and can provide the perfect spot to linger a while and admire the beauty of nature.

Comfort is the key to enjoyment of your garden, and adding a few extra cushions or a throw can make all the difference. A parasol or shade sail can help protect from the midday sun (or the occasional shower!) and extend the time you can spend relaxing.

Remember, the garden furniture you choose is as much a reflection of your style and taste as the sofa and armchairs in your living room. A pair of rustic wooden chairs with a small table between them gives a completely different ambience to a large family dining set. Sun loungers with comfortable cushions invite you to relax and enjoy the lazy pleasure of the outdoors. Park benches with black cast iron accents can lend a touch of turn-ofthe-century Parisian charm to a simple garden, or fit right into a smooth expanse of lawn.

This year at Coolings Green & Pleasant we have our widest range of garden furniture ever, from trusted names such as Alexander Rose, Hartman, Neptune, and Westminster. Whatever your style and budget, we can help you find the right furniture to create the perfect atmosphere in your garden.

Alexander Rose “Monte Carlo” range 2-seater £575.00 Corner unit £449.00

Hartman “Rocco” Bistro set £279.00

Neptune “Bristol Premier 6” set £2,499.00

Trespa set £1749.00

Westminster furniture sets Grand set £4,399.00

Cuttings from Coolings 23

At Coolings we understand that some of your purchases may be too big, heavy or cumbersome to take with you - so why not utilise our delivery service? Using our fleet of environmentally friendly, biodiesel-powered vans, our very own delivery team can bring your purchases directly to you. Our vans are kept in top condition

by Ox-in-Flames Garage in Knockholt to make sure we are always running.

We have an inner, more local delivery area, and an outer area, so our delivery charge is based on the distance we have to travel. We deliver to particular postcode regions on specific days of the week, and these are listed below:

INNER DELIVERY AREA

OUTER DELIVERY AREA

The following postcodes are subject to a £12 delivery charge; however, if your order totals more than £200 we can deliver free of charge.

Monday

The delivery charge in our outer area is dependent on your order value. Orders £50-£300 will be subject to a £25 charge, and orders between £301 and £500 are subject to a £20 charge. If your order totals more than £500 we can deliver free of charge.

DA1, DA2, DA3, DA4, DA5, DA6, DA7, DA15, DA16, SE9, SE12, BR8

Monday

Tuesday

DA8, DA9, DA10, DA11, DA12, DA13, DA17, DA18, SE2, SE3, SE7, SE10, SE18, SE28

TN13, TN14, TN15, TN16

Tuesday

Thursday

TN1, TN2, TN3, TN4, TN8, TN9, TN10, TN11, CR3, CR6, ME2, ME6, ME19, RH7, RH8, RH19

BR5, BR6, BR7, DA14

Friday

Friday

BR1, BR2, BR3, BR4

CONGESTION CHARGES Deliveries made within a congestion charging zone will be subject to any necessary charges over and above the delivery charge. If the postcode area you would like us to deliver to is not listed, please contact us for further advice.

SE4, SE6, SE19, SE20, SE21, SE22, SE23, SE25, SE26, SE27, CRO, CR2, CR8

Don’t feel

FLAT in the garden this year!

We repair punctures and supply new tyres for wheel barrows, small garden tractors and lawnmowers.

Ox-in-Flames Garage LTD Main Road, Knockholt, Sevenoaks, TN14 7JJ (Located between both Coolings branches.)

01959 532149 www.oxinflames.co.uk 24 Cuttings from Coolings

Easter Sunday

COOLINGS is one of the only

at Th Garde Garden e en C entrer’s

Garden Centres in the UK to be open on Easter Sunday. This is because at our heart we are a growing nursery and have been for three generations.

FREE £3.99

Aquilegia

‘Granny's bonnet’

To all customers visiting on Easter Sunday*

*With any purchase from our Main Shop, excluding Arthurs Coffee Shop Subject to availability. Limited to one free 13cm Aquilegia Spring magic mix per household and one per transaction.

Coolings Nurseries Ltd reserves the right to amend offer and terms and conditions without notice.

Coolings Green & Pleasant is not open Easter Sunday.

Cuttings from Coolings 25

EVENTS at The Gardener's Garden Centre, Rushmore Hill Saturday 7 April Sunday 8 April

Exhibition and Craft Sale by East Surrey Woodturners See page 29 for details

Saturday 14 April Sunday 15 April

Exhibition by the Knockholt Art Club In Lecture Room

Sunday 29 April

Weald Power Stationary Steam Engine display See page 28 for details

Saturday 9 June Sunday 10 June

Orpington Beekeepers See the bees at work and buy some honey

9.30am-5pm 10.30am-4pm 10.15am

Visit to Loseley Park See page 33 for details

Friday 29 June

Summer Showcase open to the public

Saturday 30 June Sunday 1 July

Exhibition by the Orpington Art Club In Lecture Room

Monday 2 July*

Visit to Hampton Court Exclusive Evening Preview Event See page 33 for details

Tuesday 19 June*

3.45pm 2-5pm

Study with us See page 34 for details

Saturday 21 July Sunday 22 July

Exhibition by the Chislehurst Artists in Lecture Room

Thursday 5 July

Wednesday 1 August* Celebrity Lecture with Bob Ogley: Kent’s 10.30am

Extraordinary Weather See page 28 for details

Saturday 4 August

Classic Car Show See page 28 for details

Monday 6 August* 9.00am

Visit to Highgrove See page 32 for details

Saturday 11 August Sunday 12 August

Orpington Photograph Exhibition In Lecture Room

Saturday 8 September Orpington Flower Club presents Sunday 9 September their annual Flower Exhibition in Lecture Room

To book please ring 01959 532269 or print a booking form from our website

EVENTS at Coolings Green & Pleasant Easter Holiday Activities Monday 2 April – Saturday 7 April 10am–4pm daily EASTER BUNNY TRAIL Hop Along to our Nature Trail! Follow the Easter Bunny signs, answer 10 easy questions and win a prize!

Tuesday 10 April & Thursday 12 April 11am BUILD A BUG/BAT/BEE BOX WORKSHOPS* These exciting hands-on workshops provide children with a great opportunity to build their own wooden Bug, Bat or Bee 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! £8.95 per child, min. age 5 yrs. Must be pre-booked.

Please Note:

Coolings Green & Pleasant is CLOSED on Easter Sunday.

STORYTELLING FOR UNDER 5s* Come and join the fun as favourite children’s stories are brought to life in special storytelling sessions for the under 5’s at 10am, 11am, 12 noon & 1.30pm.£4.50 per child, includes Little Seedlings lunch. Must be pre-booked.

Thursday 26th April The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark”* Thursday 31st May “Elmer”* Thursday 28th Jun “The Lighthouse Keeper’s Lunch”* Thursday 27th Sep “Handa’s Surprise”* Thursday 25th Oct “Kipper’s Toybox”*

26 Cuttings from Coolings

FOOD NIGHTS @ BLUEBERRY CAFÉ

Tables can be booked between 6.30pm-9pm

Thursday 26th & Friday 27th July Tuesday 21st & Wednesday 22nd August

Thursday 19th April

“St George’s Day Celebration”* Monday 30th July Join us for a delicious 3-course meal with a – Sunday 12th “Best of British” theme.

August £19.99 per person, tables must be pre-booked.

Thursday 31st May

Monday 24th – “Diamond Jubilee Celebration”* Sunday 30th Sep Join us for a delicious 3-course meal fit for a Queen!

£19.99 per person, tables must be pre-booked.

Thursday 28th June

“Jazz on the Patio” Special Live Music Event* Enjoy a delicious meal and listen to the great sounds of the Ray Rich Band.

Monday 29 October – Sunday 4 November

24.99 per person, must be pre-booked.

Monday 29 October & Wednesday 31st October 11am

Thursday 26th July

“Gold Medal Dinner”* A special menu in honour of the 2012 Olympics!

£19.99 per person, tables must be pre-booked.

Thursday 27th September

“Cheese Night”* As part of British Cheese Week, join us for a delicious 3-course meal.

Tuesday 30th £19.99 per person, tables must be pre-booked.

October &

Thursday 18th October

Saturday 5th May 10am–4pm

Thursday 1st

“Curry Night”* November Indian cuisine comes to Knockholt!

11am

£19.99 per person, tables must be pre-booked.

BEEKEEPERS’ DEMONSTRATION A chance to learn about the fascinating life of the honeybee and put your bee-related questions to one of our beekeepers, with a chance to get kitted up and look into one of our working bee hives on the Nature Trail. No need to pre-book, this is a FREE event.

Monday 14th Sunday 20th May

BRITISH SANDWICH WEEK

Monday 4th – Sunday 10th June 10am–4pm daily

HALF-TERM ACTIVITIES: DIAMOND TREASURE HUNT

Tuesday 5th & Thursday 7th June 11am

POND DIPPING & BUG HUNTS*

Visit Blueberry Café during British Sandwich Week for an exciting variety of sandwiches from around the world, including wraps, pittas, baguettes and traditional British sandwiches.

Made fresh daily in our own kitchen.

SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES: NATURE NUTS* Wildlife fun for kids. Visit www.nature-nuts. co.uk for full details and booking.

BRITISH FOOD FORTNIGHT Visit Blueberry Café for a fabulous special menu celebrating the very best of British Food.

BRITISH CHEESE WEEK Blueberry Café’s special menu will feature a wide variety of British Cheeses in some familiar and some new and innovative dishes.

CHOCOLATE WEEK A must for all chocolate lovers, Blueberry Café offers a range of tempting chocolate delights!

HALF-TERM ACTIVITIES: HALLOWEEN COOKIE WORKSHOPS* Make and decorate some special Halloween cookies with our Cookery Expert! Enjoy a delicious picnic-style lunch while your cookies are baking! £8.95 per child, min. age 5 yrs. Must be prebooked.

BUILD A BUG or BIRD BOX WORKSHOPS* These exciting hands-on workshops provide children with a great opportunity to build their own wooden Bug or 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! £8.95 per child, min. age 5 yrs. Must be prebooked.

To book please ring 01959 534386 or print a booking form from our website Events marked with an asterisk* need to be pre-booked

Search our Nature Trail to find the hidden “treasure” and win a prize!

Come and hunt for bugs and insects with one of our Nature Trail experts, then take home your very own bug jar to continue your own investigations at home! £8.95 per child, must be pre-booked. Age 5-11 yrs Please note: Maximum 10 children per session, book early to avoid disappointment.

Cuttings from Coolings 27

Classic Vehicle Day Saturday 4th August 11am to 4pm is Come once again to our Annual Car Show which nt amou huge a had we a fantastic day out. Last year . of vehicles, including our Green Goddess fire engine Entrance is free.

If you would like to bring a vehicle please make sure it is 30 years old or more as we have an overwhelming number of exhibitors every year. Just If come along on the day between 9 and 10.30am. st intere of and er young is you have a vehicle that in. please let us know and we might be able to fit it

Kent’s Extraordinary Weather - A Lecture by Bob Ogley on

Wednesday 1st August, 10.30am £3.50 per pers

Kent’s variable climate.

Bob Ogley returns to Coolings for a lecture about was stranded in a two rm platfo on d arrive Yes, the train that should have he paddled down the snowdrift. Yes, granddad was telling the truth when high street in a canoe. weather which has Come and enjoy Bob’s enter taining talk on the part of the continent were we when Age Ice Third the affected Kent, from will mention famous He of Europe to the global warming ‘scares’ of today. dust devils, and s deluge oes, floods and freezes, tempests and tornad hailstones and heatwaves.

Weald Power Stationary Steam Display Free display in Arthur’s garden Sunday 29th April Come and look at the fascinating display of Steam Engines.

The club caters for people’s interest in the restoration of old Internal Combustion Stationary engines as used in Agriculture and Industry.

28 Cuttings from Coolings

Floristry Workshops with Myra Lester ÂŁ25 per person inc. Lunch

erful ways instead of Learn how to arrange flowers in weird and wond Floristry Tutor. just putting them in a vase, with Myra Lester our 9.30am Friday 18th May Friday 15th June 9.30am 9.30am Friday 13th July Friday 20th August 9.30am

Structured with Style Roses on a Budget Roses in a Crafty Frame Let Us Go Alfresco

To book please ring 01959 532269 or print form from our website. When we confirm your booking we will forward the relevant worksheet/s detailing the materials required.

East Surrey Woodturners l

Free exhibition in Lecture Room on 7th / 8th Apri We have been delighted to exhibit and sell our turned items at Coolings on several occasions over the past few years, and we look forward to seeing everyone again this year.

As usual we will be in the Lecture Room, where we will display a large range of different items for sale, and will be demonstrating how some of them are made.

Cuttings from Coolings 29

WINNING ENTRIES

Last year we asked our customers to bring their cameras to Coolings Green & Pleasant and photograph whatever caught their eye. We think you’ll agree that the results are stunning! The competition was judged by award-winning photographer Kate Radcliffe LRPS DPAGB, who said, “The standard of entries this year was higher than ever, and I was really pleased to see the variety of subjects and techniques used. Well done to everyone who entered.”

The next “Green & Pleasant Scenes” photography competition will be at Christmas 2012; check our website or see in store during October for details of how to enter.

30 Cuttings from Coolings

Please visit us at Coolings Green & Pleasant, Knockholt, TN14 7LH

01959 533828 We have a large selection of garden buildings on display

Sheds Workshops Summerhouses Playhouses Home offices Garages Greenhouses Bespoke buildings www.burtenshawgardenbuildings.co.uk

2012-0001 Coolings Cuttings Feb 2012 final.indd 1

Open six days a week (closed on Fridays)

23/02/2012 14:43

Cuttings from Coolings 31

Timetable:

Tour Highgrove Gardens with Coolings Nurseries

We will leave Coolings Nurseries by coach at 9.00am and, following a journey of approximately three hours, will arrive at The Hare & Hounds Hotel in Tetbury for lunch.

At 1.30pm we will arrive at Highgrove and the first tour of the gardens (first 25 people) will commence at 1.45pm sharp; the second tour commencing at 2.10pm. It is extremely important that we adhere to the strict timing of the tours. The tours will take approximately 1 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 that 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 5.00pm, hopefully arriving back around 7.30 to 8.00pm. These times are approximate and will be dependent on traffic.

Cost: £75.00 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:

Monday 6th August 2012 Coolings 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.

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

Ticket Allocation: This visit has always proved to be extremely popular and that demand for tickets will outstrip supply. To be fair to all our customers we are therefore allocating tickets by ballot only. To apply for the ballot you will need to collect one of our application forms from our reception or download one from our website. All entries must be received by Coolings on one of our ballet forms by Friday 20th April.

© RHS Special Events Ltd

Hampton Court Flower show Exclusive Preview Evening Monday 2nd July 2012 Coolings have managed to arrange a limited number of tickets to the special preview evening for the RHS Hampton Court Flower Show.

Bring a picnic or treat yourself to something from one of the many catering outlets and explore the various displays and attractions of this world-famous event to the background of live music while the sun sets.

This perfect evening will be brought to an exciting end with a magical firework display set against the backdrop of Hampton Court Palace.

A Day out with Coolings at Loseley House Tuesday 19th June 2012 Coolings have arranged a fantastic guided tour of both Loseley House and the Gardens.

Based on a design by Gertrude Jekyll the 2.5 acre Walled Garden at Loseley is considered to be one of the loveliest in the south-east of England. Divided into a series of ‘rooms’ our tour will encompass all areas of the garden from the mulberry tree, reputedly planted

by Queen Elizabeth I during one of her four visits, through to the recently developed Organic Vegetable Garden. We will gain plenty of insights into the 1000 bush Rose Garden as well as the Herb, Flower and Vegetable Gardens. The tour will also take in the Moat Border and Terrace, from where we can view the developing Wild Flower Meadow.

Loseley House itself remains broadly unchanged since its construction in the 16th century and would be recognisable to its original occupants. Filled with

Timetable: Depart Coolings: 3.45pm Arrive Hampton Court: 5pm Enter Hampton Court: 5.30pm Depart Hampton Court: 10.40pm Arrive Coolings: 11.45pm Cost: £89.00 per head.

BOOKING: Please book using our booking forms which will be available from reception or download from our website. (Please note that the RHS will not permit entry to anyone under 18 to this event.)

many portraits and fine antiques the house is a treasure trove of finery and along the tour we should also see the small bedroom Queen Elizabeth I chose to stay in while visiting.

Timetable: Depart Coolings 10.30am Arrive: Loseley around midday Lunch: Options for a two-course lunch will be available on the booking form.

Tours of the property and Gardens will start after lunch and there will be time for you to wander on your own in the grounds afterwards and peruse the gift shop and tea room at your own expense if you desire.

Depart: 5pm. Arrive Coolings: 6.30pm Cost: £59 per head Booking: Please book using our booking forms which will be available from reception or download from our website.

Open Afternoon on Thursday July 5, 2–5pm knowledge then If you would like to increase your horticultural Centre. en Gard s ener’ consider studying here at the Gard and discuss you meet to love Tessa Allen, our RHS tutor, would have (we nts stude nt curre the courses we run. Some of our like in really it’s what you tell over 150!) will also be on hand to view to ite webs our on n class – or go to the ‘education’ sectio ite. appet your whet to nts some comments from past stude

RHS (Level 2) Certificate in the Principles of Horticulture two year course Just three hours a week, over 30 weeks, can gain you this nationally recognised award. If you don’t fancy taking exams then you can enjoy this purely as a leisure course. Both theory and practical elements of gardening are taught. This course is suitable for all keen gardeners regardless of experience.

Course starts September 2012

Tessa Allen RHS TUTOR

Extending your Gardening Horizons devised This course is offered exclusively at Coolings. It was us previo of by our RHS tutor, Tessa Allen, at the request they that ngs Cooli at ng students who had so enjoyed learni didn’t want to stop! st in This course is open to anyone who has an intere any ed attend have gardening, regardless of whether they other classes.

-based ‘Extending your Gardening Horizons’ is a non exam to visits all-day 10 course taught over 30 weeks, including the of days The st. intere l ultura gardens and places of hortic coach all es includ price the and 4pm 9am– from visits will run Visits trips but not entry to the gardens, where applicable. ns, Garde Savill The and s. will include Anglesey Abbey, Camb Windsor Great Park.

Course start date – September 2012

Hours – 3 hours of teaching a week

Duration – The course is taught over 1 year

Including 10 all-day visits to gardens and places of horticultural interest

How to be a Gardener st in gardening and This course is designed for people who have an intere d it! No prior behin e want to know more without the complex scienc ed! knowledge or experience is requir mporary gardening and The course focuses on the principle areas of conte , with three hours weeks is divided into five modules. Each module lasts six per weekly session. will be possible to dip in Modules are offered as individual courses so it in or take all five over 30 and out of subjects you have a particular interest weeks; the decision is yours. le to give real-life There will also be a practical element to each modu experience of the topics covered.

The modules will cover : The basics of how to garden Urban Farming: Growing your own vegetables Wildlife and gardening Gardening and your health Gardening and the future

Course starts September 2012

Jane Gleeson TUTOR

An Introduction to Garden Design l principles and This course introduces applicants to the fundamenta who wish to have ners garde for t perfec is and theories of garden design greater design skills for planning their own gardens. how to apply their Throughout the eight weeks, students will learn start them on the to aiming ts, projec ideas to paper, with site-specific course also includes week eightThe ers. design n garde path to becoming and how to apply ials lectures on designing with plants; landscape mater ; and a site visit to design n garde of y them successfully to designs; a histor an influential garden. eight tabletop drawing Applicants are advised to have their own lightw tial at the start of essen not are board and some drawing materials. These materials. priate appro the to as given be the course and advice will

Course start date – May 16th 2012

Hours – 9.30am–12.30pm Duration – 8 weeks, Wednesdays Lecturer – Alex Lindsay BA Hons, GD DIP

Includes week-4 site-visit to Thames Barrier Park, London.

Alex Lindsay

Coolings Garden Design Course

TUTOR

Course start date – September 2012

Hours – 1 morning a week, 3 hours of teaching

Duration – The course is taught over 2 years and

makes for a low

pressure learning

experience Lecturer – Alex Lindsay BA Hons, GD DIP

See our website for booking forms at www.coolings.co.uk

National Certificate This course cover s similar content to the Higher ‘hands on’ onal vocati (HNC) in Garden Design but takes a more ence. confid and ience exper with approach to equip students and design ve creati of n inatio comb t perfec the is This course d the aroun based is e advanced plant and design knowledge. The cours following modules: • Professional design practice • Garden design principles • Drawing techniques • Design process • Plant selection and establishment • Garden styles and their influence • Hard landscape principles and practices • Business start up • Major integrated design projects • Excursions to inspirational design gardens board and some Applicants are advised to have their own drawing of the course and start the at tial essen not are drawing materials. These advice will be given as to the appropriate materials.

Gift Ideas eck

D ys

le ad r B air Ch

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36 Cuttings from Coolings

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Purple

the colour of

C

WORDS: Gary Carvosso

oolings are feeling very patriotic this year in our purple uniform. We are really proud to be sponsoring the creation of a huge crown made from living plants to commemorate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. The chosen design was drawn by a pupil at the Marjorie McClure Specialist School in Chislehurst.

The competition, held in conjunction with the London Borough of Bromley, received many entries from primary schools within Bexley, Croydon and Bromley.

As one of the judges, I can say the standard was very high and choosing a winner was immensely difficult.

Earlier in March the steel frame of the crown was filled with compost, and compact annual bedding plants planted. The crown will be located in central Bromley, in Queen’s Garden, and we hope it will be a real showstopper.

The finished work will be unveiled in May to feature in the Diamond Jubilee celebrations in Bromley town centre. The crown will be on display for the remainder of the summer in Bromley.

I plants

n late February I took up the invitation to visit the Republic of Ireland to strengthen trade between British Horticulture and the Emerald Isle. It is no secret that we enjoy and prefer growing our own plants; however, we know if we want to offer the best range to our customers we need to develop relationships with other growers in the UK and Europe.

The Irish minister for Food & Horticulture, Shane McEntee, met with a small number of UK horticultural buyers at a trade fair just outside Dublin. The quality of the stock was excellent, in particular a number of new varieties of hardy plants that are being trialled. I expect we will add them to our already extensive range in 2013 and beyond.

Whilst talking about politics, we were very pleased to welcome Nick Clegg to Coolings back in the early spring. On his first visit to Coolings Mr Clegg remarked how surprised he was to find such a large and extensive nursery tucked out of the way. We imagine he was cheering himself up with a new treat for the garden!

All of our customers’ support is greatly valued at Coolings and we hope you’ll see it’s “all bloom and no gloom” this spring. We look forward to welcoming you at both our centres in the near future.

Cuttings from Coolings 37

The Facts WORDS: Lesley Webster

One of the most popular plants that we sell is lavender; in my opinion you cannot do without at least one in a sunny garden. Let me tell you all about them: • First introduced to the UK by the Romans, who used it as a flea repellent and for healing • Use the flowers to make tea which will help you sleep • Hang bunches around the house dried or fresh for scent, or make lavender pillows • Lavender is used in the perfume industry • Use in cooking sparingly (as it has a very strong flavour) in ice cream, biscuits and cakes, use flowers on salads and the stems as skewers • Used medicinally for insect repellent and burns • Essential oil can be used to ease headaches • Use oil in the bath to relax • Can be used for hedging •

Loved by bees and butterflies

There are three types of lavender Hardy Angustifolias and intermedias will take -15°c Frost Hardy Stoechas will take down to - 5°c Tender Dentata, christianii and allardii will only take 5°c The tender varieties are best used as a bedding plant unless you have a heated greenhouse to overwinter them. You can take cuttings in August for the following year.

Pick flowers for use just as they open, and pick leaves for use before the plant flowers.

38 Cuttings from Coolings

Growing Lavender couldn’t be easier, it can be grown in the garden or in containers using John Innes No. 2 or 3 compost mixed with a third of grit. Put in a slow release fertiliser like Osmocote Plant Food Tablets as well which will last all season.

In the garden Soil: Well drained, fertile, neutral to alkaline. Lavenders do not like wet winters so if you have heavy soil improve the drainage by digging in sharp grit.

Aspect: Full sun all day. Feed during spring and summer with a high potash feed such as Tomorite or Miracle Gro Bloom Booster.

Pruning Hardy – These types flower once a year. Trim every year after flowering to keep plant tidy, the intermedia types you can cut hard back from their first year in August, as long as they have tiny shoots low down.

Frost Hardy – Prune after first flowering and they will flower again, and then give a light trim at the end of the season, around August.

Tender – Just dead-head these varieties (as you would a bedding plant).

Do not prune after September.

Come along to Coolings in the summer to see our Lavender Festival where we will have an exciting variety of lavender for you to buy.

Cuttings from Coolings 39

A of Diamond plants

In the run-up to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations look out for our regally-themed selection of plants for your garden!

Cotinus Royal Purple. The wonderful purple smoke bush is a must-have for any average-sized garden.

Patio rose Diamond. This is an ideal rose to grow in a pot. Beautiful pure white blooms.

Floribunda rose Queen Elizabeth.

An old favourite growing to five feet tall. Lovely pink flowers in summer.

Go for Gold!

Choisya Sundance. A stunning evergreen shrub ideal for small gardens. Lovely golden foliage and white scented flowers.

Super Silver!

Pittosporum Silver Queen. Glorious silverfringed evergreen foliage. Great shrub to grow if you enjoy flower arranging as cut sprigs really enhance a bouquet.

Beautiful Bronze!

Hebe Bronze Baby. Lovely compact little shrubs ideal for a patio pot.

An Olive Branch Visitors to the Olympic Games in ancient Greece were often given crowns made from olive branches. If you are visiting friends or relations over the Olympic period why not give them a topical gift of a small potted olive tree. Olives are Mediterranean plants but will live happily outside in sheltered locations though do need protection from severe winter conditions.

Small plants are ideal grown in pots where they can be moved to a cool conservatory or greenhouse in harsh weather. Look out for our special offer on selected olive trees this summer.

40 Cuttings from Coolings

Olympic

Spirit

The Olympic Games coming to London is a once in a lifetime event. To celebrate this special occasion we will be putting together a range of plants in gold, silver and bronze which are real winners!

Remember 2012 with an Olympian There are several lovely plants with Olympic names that we will be offering for sale.

Kalmia Olympic Wedding. A superb evergreen shrub for acidic soils. If you can grow rhododendrons, why not give this a try?

Blooming in early summer, kalmias are little known but truly wonderful.

Climbing rose Olympic Flame. Superb climber with vibrant red flowers.

Floribunda rose Olympic Spirit.

Fantastic bush rose with gold-edged red blooms.

Butterf lies to your Enticing

and

Garden WORDS: Lesley Webster Making a garden to attract butterflies and bees is not difficult; it should look like the old fashioned cottage gardens that we used to have! A wild area with grasses and a few wild plants is also a good idea, to help with their breeding.

T

ry not to use pesticides as this will affect the butterflies and bees.

The best aspect for this type of garden is sunny most of the day, as it is the best for the butterflies and bees and also for the flowers you will grow.

The flowers to grow should be open such as Phlox, Sweet rocket, Aubrietia, Wallflowers and Forget-me-nots. Also plants with lots of tiny flowers such as Buddleja, Lavender, Heathers, Verbena, Sedums, Pot Marigolds, Scabious,

Privet and Hebes.

Herbs are also good for butterflies and bees, two of the best are Marjoram and Thyme.

Don’t forget hedges as these are great for shelter.

Bumble bees are becoming scarce and are important pollinators, they can pollinate at lower temperatures than other insects.

Putting up bee boxes is a good idea as it gives the bees somewhere to hibernate and lay their eggs, which leaf-cutter bees would do.

Bees like similar flowers to butterflies but also Asters, Salvias, Anemone and Roses; they do not like double flowers as they can’t get to the nectar.

So remember the more plants you can cram in your garden, the more species of butterflies and bees you will have.

Cuttings from Coolings 41

WORDS: Melissa Clark, Catering Manageress

Naturally Delicious Blueberry Café is a bright, contemporary eatery offering a delicious selection of hot and cold food and drinks all day, everyday. We start the day with a hearty breakfast menu with traditional cooked breakfast platters and sandwiches, morning coffee with a scrumptious selection of cakes and tray bakes, hot and cold lunches with daily specials, homemade soups, quiches and salads, and mouth-watering afternoon tea with homemade scones, cakes and biscuits. We’re also proud to be serving Costa coffee, recognised worldwide as some of the finest coffee available. Teapigs are also on the menu, a fabulous range of quality whole-leaf teas and infusions. As a licensed premises we can also offer you wines and beers, and a variety of soft drinks, juices and fruit smoothies.

Food Nights @ Blueberry Café Our Food Nights @ Blueberry Café continue to grow in popularity as more and more people discover what excellent value the delicious food is. So far we’ve enjoyed four fabulous themed evenings, including a very special Burns Night Celebration. Over 50 diners enjoyed a sumptuous menu with a distinctive Scottish flavour, including of course Haggis, which was addressed in traditional style by a piper in full costume. (For the sassanachs among us there was an English translation of Robert Burns’ poem on each table so we could follow the story!)

There are lots more Food Nights @ Blueberry Café planned for 2012 (see the calendar below), but places are limited so book your table today! Call Mel on 01959-534386.

St Patrick’s Day Celebration Classics from the Emerald Isle Thursday 15th March St George’s Day Celebration The Best of British Thursday 19th April Diamond Jubilee Celebration Food fit for a Queen!

Thursday 31st May

Jazz on the Patio Evening Al fresco dining with music Thursday 28th June

Curry Night The nation’s favourite dish Thursday 18th October

Gold Medal Dinner Everyone’s a winner!

Thursday 26th July

Winter Warmer Hearty fare to beat the winter blues Thursday 15th November

Cheese Night Part of British Cheese Week Thursday 27th September

Make the most of the great outdoors!

Blueberry Café has a stunning garden designed by Millhouse Landscapes, complete with a blue slate stream that winds through the planting and seating areas, creating one harmonious landscape picture. The patio is sheltered from the elements by the curved canopy of the roof overhead, but allows views across the Kitchen Garden to the Nature Trail beyond. It’s perfect for an al fresco lunch, or treat yourself to a special afternoon tea.

After-school suppers Try our delicious and nutritious after-school suppers.

Served every weekday up to 4.15pm, choose from a range of favourites including Beans on Toast, Sausage & Mash, and Cheese & Tomato Pizza. Prices start at just £2.99, so now every school day can be a treat!

Nature Trail Picnic Packs Available daily and ideal for our Nature Trail Picnic Area, Takeaway Packs include cutlery, drink lids and handy wipes. Choose from a range of sandwiches and salads, or a take-away soup if it’s a cooler day! Hot and cold drinks, including Costa Coffee, are also available to take away, along with a great selection of cakes, biscuits, fresh fruit, crisps and snacks.

Cuttings from Coolings 43

Stylish

ADVERTISING FEATURE

garden

SOLUTIONS WITH

Patio and decking Create an extension of your indoor space in the summer months with a conveniently situated patio or decked area, preferably at the back of the property and near the kitchen and living room. This small town garden has a delightful shaded patio for an intimate gathering of friends or go all out with a decked space like this minimalist Huf Haus garden, with space for entertaining, loungers and views out onto the garden.

Water features Whether you have a large or small garden, adding a water feature is attainable. In a small town garden you can create a tranquil seating area by including a raised water pool, separated by a walkway and trellising or, for impact, this dramatic Californian style swimming pool and waterfall offers the ultimate solution. This project included the creation of a 3m-high waterfall that can be walked under and required the excavation of the bank to position large boulders.

An outdoor garden room If you want a haven to relax in and shut yourself off, or an outdoor ‘room’ where you can entertain your family and guests, there are plenty of solutions on offer. This small summerhouse on a raised lawn allows you to separate yourself from the chaos and perhaps read a book but still keep an eye on the rest of the garden (i.e. the children!).

This open ‘garden room’ is great for entertaining in the evening during summer months, with integrated subtle lighting to enhance the ambience.

Millhouse Landscapes, based at Coolings Nursery, Rushmore Hill, Knockholt TN14 7NN. Call 01732 590130 or visit www.millhouselandscapes.co.uk 2011 APL Award Winners 7 Times National B.A.L.I Award Winners

Garden Design Consultation Offer Award-winning Millhouse Landscapes are offering Garden Consultations at a reduced rate of £50 throughout April and May 2012 (normally £125) One of our award-winning garden designers will spend a minimum of 30 minutes at your property to discuss design ideas & cost options for landscape works, whether you are looking to simply enhance your existing garden or create entirely new spaces

Am I right in thinking we will all be relieved to see the back of the ice and snow and those cold dark days of winter? Our thoughts are on spring, followed by warm, sunny days, so once again everyone will be back in the garden, preferably Arthur’s Garden, enjoying lunch or our homemade cakes.

WORDS: Karen Howard

As most of you know our homemade cakes have built up a reputation of their own, so shortly you will be able to purchase your favourite whole cakes to take away. In the past we have had many requests to buy our cakes but we were not able to do this as Maureen would have been unable keep up with the baking.

We now have Kris Douglas coming back after spending six months travelling to assist in this operation and use his expertise in cake decorating.

Keep an eye on new cake recipes that complement the seasons in the garden centre, such as lavender shortbread.

Our latest development in Arthur’s during the winter was to transform the kitchen so we have a more efficient working space, enabling us to add some additional equipment.

The wall at the entrance to Arthur’s was also moved so you no longer have to walk out in the rain to the cloakrooms. Hopefully by the time this Cuttings magazine reaches you our new patio at the back of Arthur’s will be completed, with four large red umbrellas to match the front patio. The top half of the garden will be redesigned and landscaped to allow us to show off even more of the wonderful plants we sell.

We have also been busy recruiting new members to the team so we can ensure both coffee machines and tills are operational all the time.

A new Head Chef – Claire Cross – has just joined us. With her experience and passion for using fresh local produce and seasonal recipes we will be looking forward to some excellent, tasty dishes on the specials board for you all to enjoy. Fresh Fish & Chips on Fridays will also be served.

From all the team at Arthur’s, we look forward to seeing you in the months to come.

Cuttings from Coolings 45

Persicaria bistorta ‘Superba’ Every year we are asked, “What is that incredible pink flower in Arthur’s Garden?”

It’s Persicaria bistorta ‘Superba’, a very easy plant to look after which flowers for a long time. This year we have split it up and moved it around the garden so it may not be as obvious, but it will soon clump up and be even more stunning.

Persicaria is best grown in moist soil in full sun or partial shade, and is great for ground cover.

Available in 3-litre pots priced £7.49

46 Cuttings from Coolings

plant focus Hardy Perennials

Euphorbia griffithii ‘Fireglow’ This Euphorbia is also in Arthur’s garden and has fantastic bright orange-red bracts in the summer; it can also be used as a ground-cover plant and will be fantastic to use with other hot colours in the garden.

This plant is not too fussy about its soil requirements as long as the soil doesn’t dry out too much. It can also grow in full sun or part shade, and grows to about 60-90cm.

Osteospermum ‘In the Pink’

Available in 2-litre pots priced £7.99

A new perennial which will be launched at the Chelsea Flower Show, we have purchased some of these Osteospermums as young plants and are growing them on for availability in the summer.

Every plant that we sell will include in the price a 50-pence donation to Breast Cancer Care (which is dear to our hearts).

This hardy osteospermum has masses of bright pink flowers in mid-summer; remove faded blooms to promote flowering for longer. It grows to 20cm and spreads to 30cm. It needs well-drained soil and the aspect is full to part sun.

Available in 2-litre pots priced £7.99

Cuttings from Coolings 47

How to

compose a

WORDS: Samuel Gall N.D.Hort BA(Hons) MA

Japanese gardens, and their influence, have filtered over to the west over the course of many centuries – differing from our own garden styles in many ways. The mid-19th century brought artworks and influence to the fore and the inspiration amongst garden and landscape grew steadily.

Their styles can be distinctive and recognisable in the composition of certain elements within the space – water, stepping stones, ornate rocks, plants, stone lanterns and basins. A lot of these features have a symbolic relationship, a deeper meaning relating to spiritualism and religion – evoking a spiritual meaning for the user.

Japanese gardens can exist in various forms, and can suit a range of different spatial settings. Whether it’s a larger space or a very small garden, the outcome is reliant on the composition of the parts that make up the whole.

Composition

O

ne of the most important connections within a Japanese garden is its relationship with nature. The design must be laid out sympathetically in terms of randomness of shape and form to link to the natural world, in most instances steering away from symmetrical arrangements.

Viewing of a Japanese garden is also of high importance, whether it’s a transformation of a larger garden or a smaller courtyard space – the view from the house or garden building should be framed in some way, through a doorway or window, creating a picture which you can walk through and experience. Larger gardens benefit from taking on any views outward, borrowing landscape as such, whereas small gardens become more inward-looking private spaces.

The garden is composed so that a mossy wilderness, running water or raked gravel is in the immediate foreground, setting the base layer. In traditional Japanese gardens if water is not present, then it is suggested through the means of gravel and sand, reiterating the idea of symbolism. Large rocks should be placed within this space, of random orientations. Stepping stones create the meandering path that initiates the journey through the garden.

The middle ground should be an asymmetrical composition of tightly clipped shrubs such as Rhododendron, Azalea and Buxus - providing a strong splash of spring colour when in flower, as well as year-round structure.

Other planting that can create the effect includes dwarf pines and conifers such as Pinus mugo,

48 Cuttings from Coolings

Summary Irrelevant of the size of the Japanese garden created – whether it be a meditative space filled with varying raked gravels and few specimens trees, or an enlarged stroll garden with ponds and intensive planting – the underlying factor is the gardens’ spirit, and how the individual elements are balanced. A sensitive composition includes: Nature/ Religious spirit Rocks/ Gravel and Water – arranged naturally Stone Basin’s – ‘Tsukubai’ (Running water to purify visitors) Asymmetry – characterizing nature Colour importance – Ornamental Acer’s in Autumn, Azaleas in Spring

Juniperus and Chamaecyparis. Stone lanterns or basins of water can also be tucked in between planting, so that the features within the garden are not given away on first glance.

The background is the composition of larger specimens that form the backdrop to the garden – ideally species of ornamental Acer, Cornus kousa, Cercidyphyllum, Prunus etc. This is the element that provides strong autumnal colours and seasonal interest further into the year. Positioned randomly in the setting, the asymmetry of multi-stem trees characterises nature perfectly.

Planting There are many plants and plant types that will help to achieve the look and feel of Japanese gardens, through form, habit, and seasonal interest. Listed below are species that work well:

Trees

Conifers - Pines

Acer palmatum varieties Cercidyphyllum japonicum Prunus ‘Amanogawa’ Prunus sargentii Prunus incise ‘Kojo-no-mai’ Cornus kousa

Chamaecyparis obtusa Cryptomeria japonica Juniperus varieties Pinus varieties Tsuga Taxus cuspidata

Shrubs

Bamboo

Mahonia japonica Pieris japonica Aucuba Camellia varieties Deutzia Daphne varieties Magnolia varieties Rhododendron varieties Azalea varieties Nandina domestica Callicarpa bodinieri Fatsia japonica Hydrangea varieties

Phyllostachys nigra Phyllostachy aurea Pleioblastus pygmaeus

Perennials Iris varieties Anemone x hybrida varieties Paeonia varieties Hosta varieties Eupatorium varieties

Clipped Evergreens Buxus microphylla Ilex crenata Lonicera nitida

Ferns Polystichum setiferum Asplenium scolopendrium Matteuccia struthiopteris

Climbers Wisteria sinensis Wisteria floribunda Parthenocissus varieties Trachleospermum Clematis varieties

Cuttings from Coolings 49

Excellence in Arboriculture Established over 30 years ago we are a local company that prides itself on offering a top quality service to private and commercial clients. We offer all aspects of tree management from planting to felling including: • • • • • • •

Pruning Hedgecutting Tree Inspections & Surveys Stump removal Planting Emergency work Logs

Our clients range from private individuals to schools, local councils, private estates and large public organisations and include the National Trust, Natural England and the Diocese of Rochester.

If you care about trees, then you will care about who cares for them For an excellent service at a competitive price please ring our office

Telephone: 01959 524623 50

www.downtoearthtrees.co.uk enquiries@downtoearthtrees.co.uk CuttingsThe fromOast, Coolings Preston Farm, Shoreham Road, Shoreham, Kent TN14 7UD

MARK REEVE

DOWN UNDER

When Captain James Cook named an area of Sydney, Australia in 1770 – Botany Bay – he knew what he was talking about (or at least Joseph Banks and Daniel Solander did as they were the botanist and naturalist travelling with him). Australia has over 20,000 different species of plants with 85% native to the continent and nowhere else. When I visited relatives in Sydney earlier this year, I discovered some Australian species suitable for growing in milder parts of the UK

The Wollemi pine is now fairly well known after being discovered by a bushwalker in 1994. This plant is known to have been growing 90 million years ago from fossil records.

It is hardier than most people think, having withstood -12°c in trials.

Wollemi pine

Another plant that is quite a toughie is Grevillea. This plant flowers for a long period and its spidery blooms come in a variety of colours. The variety Olympic Flame may well be popular this year! It’s hardy to -5°c.

Most people are familiar with Eucalyptus

Grevillea For a really unusual plant try Melaleuca squamea (swamp honey myrtle). These carry unusual fluffy pink flowers that resemble ceanothus blooms. Their habitat in Australia is the south-east and Tasmania so they are fairly cold-tolerant given not too wet a winter.

Melaleuca squamea

Dicksonia antarctica

When I think of Tasmania I can’t forget to mention Dicksonia antarctica (tree fern). Very popular in this country now, these statuesque, slow-growing plants look fantastic in the right setting.

If you have a slightly shaded area of the garden that is reasonably sheltered from the wind, and not a frost pocket, then try one. It won’t need too much care, apart from making sure the crown does not perish over winter. If the fronds get blackened after snow or cold conditions, leave them until late spring before removing, as they will protect new growth. The growth rate of the trunk is about 5cm a year, so plant a reasonable size, otherwise it’s the grandchildren who will benefit!

All our tree ferns are tagged with serial numbers to prove they were legally harvested from designated areas.

Cuttings from Coolings 51

Many of our customers who regularly come and visit Coolings would have noticed the building work going on behind Arthur’s coffee shop. I can tell you that the rear patio is­ being levelled for a new bigger and better patio, with more seating.

To enable the diggers to get to the patio area, the top of Arthurs garden had to be cleared to gain access from the road. We felt this would be a good time to re-design and re-plant the top of Arthur’s garden once the patio had been finished.

WORDS: Andy Smithson

Before the diggers came in, I dug up small trees and shrubs which I could re-use when the hard landscaping was finished.

I also managed to save a few grasses and snowdrops, which have been re-planted in the Weavers garden.

When the garden is finished, as you walk through the entrance there will be a new stone path which will lead towards the new patio, which will be much better when it is wet.

The bed to the side of the coffee shop has been widened with new planting; a row of standard roses and lavender lines the pathway.

So bring your family and friends to Coolings and enjoy a walk round our garden, then finish off your trip with a meal or a nice cup of tea and a piece of homemade cake in Arthur’s.

Enjoy!

52 Cuttings from Coolings

To the right of the path is a new bed with mixed planting, which will be filled with lots of colour in the summer.

Previously the top part of the garden was known as the ‘Winter’ garden as it had many rhododendrons, azaleas, heathers and other winter-flowering shrubs. The area had become very overgrown and crowded, with many brambles which had taken root.

Now in the top right-hand corner is a Caribbean-style mud hut which customers can sit in and admire the garden.

Just to the left of the hut will be a sloping path and behind the path we will plant native trees such as sorbus and ilex (holly), which will be good for the birds.

We hope you like the new design, but bear in mind that it is a new garden and will take a few years to become established.

Coolings’ Festival of

Summer Herbs WORDS: Jon Reburn

To inspire our customers this summer Coolings will be running a festival dedicated to summer herbs and edible flowers at the Gardener’s Garden Centre running from late July through August. At this time of year the tender herbs are at their best and are fabulous picked fresh for the kitchen or a barbecue party! Visit our “Grow-Your-Own” tunnel to get ideas for your own garden or patio. Even if space and time are limited we aim to show you how easy and beautiful edible flowers and herbs can be. Make a note in your diaries and pay us a visit!

NEW for 2012!

Pineberry White Dream.

Available from early April This season we are excited to offer our customers new Pineberry White Dream!

Imagine a strawberry that produces WHITE fruit studded with beautiful red seeds. Then imagine that strawberry had a sweet juicy PINEAPPLE-like taste! Well, now we have it! As a leading independent garden centre we have been fortunate to secure limited numbers in carry packs of three plants for £12.99. This is a real must-have. We are told by the breeder they are ideal grown in a pots, but do not plant too deep and provide a little winter protection for best results. Waitrose sold the fruit in tiny amounts last year amid great media hype, but now we can offer you the plants to grow for yourself!

NEW for 2012!

Even more David Austin Fragrant English Roses Britain is a nation of rose lovers and Coolings customers are no exception!

By popular demand we have considerably extended our range of David Austin English Roses. These combine the beauty and fragrance of traditional roses with the disease-resistance and repeat-flowering of modern varieties. Look out for our improved range on your next visit.

Cuttings from Coolings 53

Make a The lovely pigs on our Nature Trail are a real favourite with our visitors who enjoy feeding them. Many people say they’d like to have a pig at home, but of course live pigs need lots of space and they make lots of mess! Why not have a piggy bank instead – they’re great fun to make and really useful for storing your pocket money in, too. You could even make yours a “woolly” one like our Mangalitza pigs!

ed e n l l i w u o Y • Empty tissue box • 2 empty toilet roll tubes or 4 corks • Coloured paper or card • Scissors • Glue or sticky tape • Colouring pens, paints or pencils • Optional: pipe cleaner (for curly tail), wool or string (for a woolly pig), stick-on googly eyes

Step

1

Cover the tissue box with coloured paper, or paint it if you prefer. If you’re making a woolly pig, stick lengths of wool or string onto the box.

Step 4 Wind the pipe cleaner round a pencil to make it curly, stick it onto the back of the tissue box. (Don’t forget to take the pencil out!)

54 Cuttings from Coolings

Step 2 Cut the toilet roll tubes in half to make four legs. Make 5 or 6 cuts (about 1.5cm) down from one end to make tabs. Fold down the tabs to give you a larger surface for gluing/taping. Stick the legs onto the bottom of the tissue box.

Step 5 Ask an adult to help you cut a coin slot in the top of the tissue box.

Step 3 Cut a large card circle for the head, and a smaller one for the nose.

Cut 2 card triangles for ears. Stick the nose and ears onto the face and decorate, don’t forget to draw 2 eyes (or use stick-on googly eyes).

When it’s finished, stick the face onto one end of the tissue box.

Meet the Hello!

Having spent seven-and-a half years running the Shop and Plant Centre at RHS Harlow Carr in Harrogate I have now made the long trek south to (hopefully) warmer pastures new. Originally I’m from Oxford, so not such a huge culture shock,‘though I shall miss the stunning Yorkshire landscape, not to mention Betty’s cakes! I am delighted to be joining the Coolings team and look forward to developing and expanding the business at Green & Pleasant.

Not that working here is going to leave me much in the way of spare time, but such as I have tends to be filled with going to the gym (where specific interests in the past have included boxing and weight-training!), theatre-going and food (eating it, definitely not cooking it). Less a leisure pursuit, more a means of getting to work, is cycling: so if you see a small dark-haired woman panting up Star Hill in the morning, in all likelihood it’s me!

I very much look forward to seeing you all at Coolings Green & Pleasant, we’ve got an exciting year ahead of us.

green & pleasant the natural place to visit

Sarah Martin

General Manager, Coolings Green & Pleasant

Hello!

Neil Jackson

Business Development Manager, Coolings Garden Centre

I can’t tell you how excited I am at joining the Coolings Team! Our two centres have an excellent reputation in the industry as well as with the public in this region and working here really is very pleasurable!

Although I have worked for other garden centres in London and Fareham I have spent much of my career as a wholesale grower of ornamental plants and so my main task is to “grow” (excuse the pun) our plant sales!

I also have the wonderful role of developing our education and excursions programmes. We are keen that you should have the opportunity to access courses on gardening which cater for all levels of interest and experience! Then to truly inspire you we aim to offer excursions to some terrific gardens across the country, and to try the cakes of course!

I really look forward to seeing you all in the weeks ahead!

Cuttings from Coolings 55

E x c lu si v e Di n n er Offer f or C o ol i ng s C u s to m ers

Enjoy a Gourmet Dinner for 6 on us.

Buy a HotSpring Spa or Swim Spa from Hot Tub Barn and we’ll throw in dinner for six. Chef Carlo Albertoli will create a sumptuous 4 Course Italian Feast for you and your friends in your own home including fine wines.

With a huge range of the finest HotSpring hot tubs and exercise pools on display at Hot Tub Barn in Coolings, Knockholt, we have the right spa for you.

Try before you buy in our private test soak facilities; experience the invigorating moto-massage jets of HotSpring, the world’s leading brand of hot tubs; swim against the powerful counter-current jets of a Riptide swim spa.

With a first class spa installation and after-sales service team, Hot Tub Barn has everything you need for the perfect spa and exercise pool experience.

www.hottubbarn.co.uk

Gourmet Dinner Offer

To claim your Exclusive Italian Dinner for six, come and talk to us today!

Offer ends 31st May 2012. Not available with any other offer.

Knockholt % 01959 581185 Coolings Green & Pleasant Garden Centre, Main Road, Knockholt N14 7LJ