Devon Country Gardener July 2016

Devon

Issue No 151 July 2016

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Plant a wildlife meadow It needn’t be big but it could be spectacular

Vertical vegetables – growing upwards to save space Choosing and growing lobelias ART AND MUSIC IN JULY GARDENS TO VISIT PLUS Garden fairs, days out and summer events from all over Devon

www.countrygardener.co.uk

Torridge Gates & Outdoor Furniture Wooden entrance, garden and field gates – measuring and fitting service available Full range of wooden garden furniture, planters, trellis, sheds, log stores and more For more information visit www.torridgegates.co.uk or call 01805 603429

Summer

Elegant Roses

from David Austin

WITH BERNAVILLE For over 50 years our family owned nursery has been helping customers create beautiful gardens and homes. Our huge range of plants and products are matched only by our knowledge, expertise and service. So if you’re looking for inspiration for your home and garden visit the experts - Bernaville Nurseries.

Lots of ideas for outdoor living

Gazebos and garden furniture

Fire Pits and Chimineas

Gift ideas and clothing

Bernaville Nurseries Call 01392 851326 â—? www.bernaville.co.uk

Find us on the A377 Exeter to Crediton road.

Grow your own delicious herbs!

- HENRY JAMES

THE SKY’S THE LIM I T

Lovely lobelia Gill Heavens finds so much to enjoy and savour from the 370 species of lobelia in the family campanulaceae.

Page 8

If you are short of space when it comes to growing your own then there are some excellent specially bred varieties which will literally reach for the sky. Page 26

HOW TO GROW A WILD FLOWER MEADOW

Organic solutions

If you have a patch of lawn in an open, sunny site, it could easily be transformed into a wild flower meadow. The results will be breathtaking and not difficult to achieve. Page 12

It’s the season of pests and diseases but rather than just turn to chemicals for the solution here’s some organic options you might not have been aware of. Page 33

Summer in the garden

July is often one of the hottest months and while it is a great time to sit out and enjoy the garden there’s still plenty of work to be done. Page 19

Summer Q&A Our horticultural experts Andrew Midgley and Gill Heavens delve into your summer gardening problems.

Page 24 Editorial Publisher & Editor: Alan Lewis alan@countrygardener.co.uk Tel: 01823 431767 Time Off: Kate Lewis timeoff@countrygardener.co.uk Design & Production Aidan Gill aidan@countrygardener.co.uk Gemma Stringer gemma@countrygardener.co.uk

Arts and sculpture in gardens to visit The high summer months of June and July see record numbers of gardens open.

This month we highlight those who have arts and sculpture as the main feature in their gardens. Page 34

GARDENING EVENTS GALORE Our Time Off section features days out, events, festivals, shows plus gardening club and society events near you. Page 38

Advertising Sales Cath Pettyfer Devon & Dorset cath.pettyfer@countrygardener.co.uk Tel: 01837 82660 Ava Bench Somerset & Classified ava@countrygardener.co.uk classified@countrygardener.co.uk Tel: 01823 619073

Corina Reay Cotswolds corina@countrygardener.co.uk Tel: 01823 410098 Rob Houghton Hampshire & Sussex rob@countrygardener.co.uk Tel: 01614 283230

Accounts Sam Bartholomew sam@countrygardener.co.uk Tel: 01823 430639

Hollyhocks heaven

Once we hit full summer hollyhocks will burst into a peachy spire of colour that will become a focal point of gardens. Here’s how to make the most of this wonderful cottage garden flower. Page 48

“Deep summer in the garden is when laziness finds respectability.” - SAM KEEN “Dirty hands, iced tea, July garden fragrances thick in the air and a blanket of colour before me, who could ask for more?”

- BEV ADAMS Issue No 124 July 2016

Cotswolds

Contents

“Summer afternoon - summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language.”

FREE

Plant a wildlife meadow It needn’t be big but it could be spectacular

ON THE COVER THIS MONTH

Ever thought about having a wild flower garden to enjoy? This month’s cover shows the glory of summer wild flowers and how easy it is to add them into your garden no matter what size you have available.

Vertical vegetables – growing upwards to save space Choosing and growing lobelias ART AND MUSIC IN JULY GARDENS TO VISIT

Woodland glamour at Evenley Wood

PLUS Garden fairs, days out and summer events from all over the Cotswolds

www.countrygardener.co.uk

Summer gardening AT THE GARDEN LOVERS GARDEN CENTRE On A423 Southam Road, Nr. Farnborough, Banbury OX17 1EL. Tel: 01295 690479

Open Six Days a Week. Tue-Sat: 9.00am - 5.30pm Sun: 10.30am - 4.30pm

Open Bank Holiday Mondays www.farnboroughgardencentre.co.uk

Distribution Pat Eade pateade@btinternet.com Tel: 01594 543790 Garden Festivals Fiona Gofton Organiser fiona@countrygardener.co.uk Follow us on Twitter @countrygardenuk

The Country Gardener magazines are distributed FREE at Nurseries, garden centres, National Trust Properties, open gardens, garden machinery specialists, country stores and farm shops in each county.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored or made available in any form, without the written permission of the copyright holder and Publisher, application for which should be made to the Publisher. Unsolicited material: do not send or submit your only version of manuscripts and/or photographs/transparencies to us as these cannot be returned to you. While every care is taken to ensure that material submitted is priced accurately and completely, we cannot be responsible or liable for any loss or damage suffered. Views and/or opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent those of Country Gardener or the Publisher.

www.countrygardener.co.uk

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...IN DEVON

A look at news, events and happenings in Devon

Devon gardens open to enjoy over the next few weeks If you enjoy visiting open gardens there are a number of special openings over the next few weeks in Devon, many open for charity and there’s often not only the chance to see the garden but enjoy teas and cakes. Some of those open include:

Ash open gardens Two delightful gardens in the tiny hamlet of Ash in deep countryside two miles from Dartmouth are opening twice this summer – on the weekend of 24th and 25th June and again in August.

The beautiful intimate little garden at Bay Tree Cottage sits in a quiet secluded valley with wonderful sunlit views across open farmland. The curved lawn leads the eye to small rooms filled with clever planting. Ornamental trees punctuate the boundary and a tiny vegetable garden of raised beds overflows with produce.

Higher Ash Farm has 2½ acres of established and developing garden situated around farmhouse and barn conversions.

The large kitchen garden is terraced into the hillside, there’s an orchard, pond, stream with bog planting and feature borders around the house offering seasonal and year round interest.

Ash Gardens, Ash, Dartmouth, Devon TQ6 0LR. Open for the National Gardens scheme on Saturday 25th June, Sunday 26th June, Saturday 13th August, Sunday 14th August, 2pm-5pm. Admission: ÂŁ4.50, children free. Teas available. Dogs allowed on short leads.

Sidmouth Secluded Gardens Once again the gardeners of Sidmouth are opening their properties in aid of Sidmouth in Bloom. Seventeen gardens will be opening between Tuesday 30th June and Monday July 4th, six to eight gardens daily. Entry is ÂŁ2 per garden or visitors can buy a five day programme which gives entry to all gardens for ÂŁ8. For more details visit www.sidmouthinbloom.org

‘Libertas’, Buckland tout Saints, Kingsbridge TQ7 2DS A stunning and extensive garden, Libertas at Buckland tout Saints is opening on Sunday 24th July in aid of St Peter’s church. The garden opens to visitors at 2.30pm and cream teas will be available. ‘Libertas’, Buckland tout Saints, Kingsbridge TQ7 2DS. For more information call 01548 853653.

Over in Cornwall, open gardens at Morwenstow Morwenstow near Bude is staging an open gardens and cream tea on Sunday July 3rd starting at 12pm until 3pm.

Visitors start at the Morwenstow Community Centre where they can collect a map to guide them round the various gardens on display. Combined admission to all gardens is ÂŁ6 which includes a cream tea.

For more details call 01288331682/07814978110.

BEEKEEPING COURSES THRIVE ON DEVON FARM Blackbury Honey Farm is situated in the glorious East Devon countryside. This small, beautiful, family run farm is a hidden gem, appealing to beekeepers, gardeners and countryside lovers.

You will find information on the fascinating lives of honey bees, and what to plant to attract bees and other pollinators to your own garden.

Beekeeping courses ranging from beginners to advanced are run here in the purpose - built seminar room and laboratory. The courses are written and presented by Ken and Dan Basterfield, both holders of the NDB, the highest qualification in beekeeping.

There is a developing pollinator garden with some already established borders and more under way.

The wildflower meadow and orchards surrounding the garden hum and dance with bees, butterflies and birds. Each season, paths are cut through the meadow so that visitors can wander through, up close to nature.

Home-made teas and light lunches can be eaten in the beautiful, airy tearoom, overlooking the garden and there is a huge old dresser holding honey and honey and beeswax products made on the farm.

Blackbury Honey Farm is open each week from Thursday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm.

Blackbury Honey Farm Southleigh, Colyton EX24 6JF www.blackburyfarm.co.uk 01404 871600 4

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Thornhayes

n

u r s e r y

Quality Trees and Shrubs Hedging, fruit (including heritage apples) and amenity trees from whip to standard. Conifers and broadleaves. New range of choice shrubs. Advisory/design service.

Discover a garden near you.

For details please visit our website www.ngs.org.uk or call 01483 211535

Thornhayes Nursery, Dulford, Open 8am-4pm Mon to Fri also 9am-1pm Sat Cullompton, Devon EX15 2DF Tel: 01884 266746 www.thornhayes-nursery.co.uk

www.devonlogstores.co.uk Made from sustainably harvested locally grown timber, these log stores are sturdily and attractively designed, yet light enough to be easily moved. Also wheelie bin/recycling storage and cycle stores.

Hill House Nursery Landscove, Nr Ashburton, Devon TQ13 7LY 01803 762273 bluebird@hillhousenursery.com Open 7/7 inc. Bank Holidays 11am to 5pm

A family-run nursery with a vast range of plants from the well known to the rare & unusual, all well grown & priced.

We grow most of our stock ourselves & our staff are all trained and highly experienced in various gardening disciplines.

The historic garden is open free of charge and Hill House Nursery Tea Room is open from 1st March to 30th September.

Dogs on leads in garden only.

Mail order available, please see our web site.

Available in a range of sizes suited for the courtyard/patio or larger garden.

For further details call Nick on 01392 681690

www.hillhousenursery.com

Willowbrook Nursery and Garden Centre

LY N W O O D STONE

Est. 2000 Beautiful natural stone walling for boundary and retaining walls, raised beds etc Division of Lynwood Landscapes Contact Nigel on 01363 774903 garsiden@aol.com

your local family-run garden centre A wide choice of award-winning shrubs, bedding, trees, herbs, climbers, perennials, alpines, roses, soft and top fruit & more.

We also have a well-stocked shop, Pet & Bird Centre, Aquatic Centre, Shed, Cafe & Tea Room serving home cooked food.

On the main A38 Taunton/Wellington www.willowbrooknurseryandgardencentre.co.uk

www.lynwoodlandscapes.com

TELEPHONE 01823 461324

INSTOREFurniture, ONLINE TELEPHONE Garden Weber BBQ’s and much more!

Orchard Park, Shaftesbury Rd, Gillingham SP8 5JG T: 01747 835544 E: info@orchardpark.uk.net MON - SAT 9 - 5.30 SUN 10 - 4.30 Discover more at www.orchardpark.biz

Follow us on

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5

Independent plant nurseries guide goes live Do you have a favourite local plant nursery? Devon nurserywoman Sacha Hubbard from Hill House Nursery, Landscove, Devon and two others have trying to do something to support nurseries they passionately believe in.

Many gardeners want to support independent local nurseries but following various social media conversations, alluding to all nurseries and garden centres being shut on Easter Sunday it became obvious to three horticulturalists that often finding those favourite nurseries which offer expertise, skill and local plant knowledge was easier said than done.

So Matthew Currie who has put the new website together, Sacha Hubbard and Sara Venn began discussing a way to support the businesses.

Nurserymen from across the country have been getting in contact and asking to be a part of the guide, and gardeners young and old put forward their favourite local nurseries.

Said Sacha Hubbard:”The guide is still a work in progress and we hope by releasing it that more and more independent nurseries will come forward and be a part of this extraordinary project that is shining a light on our British horticultural experts and helping gardeners, both new and experienced, to access the wealth of knowledge carried in these nurseries.

“All the work has been done on the guide completely voluntarily and we hope that with this as the ethos behind the Independent Plant Nurseries Guide, that the guide will also help nurseries to support and find each other.

“The guide is very much a first stage in finding out where independent nurseries are based, with links to websites and phone numbers so customers can phone ahead to ask specific questions. We hope it will progress into different guises, making it inclusive and available to all. We hope it will be received well and help people to support our wonderful British growers. We welcome any feedback”.

Email sacha@hillhousenursery.com. www.independentplantnurseriesguide.uk

Rosemoor delivers on roses

Rosemoor roses - open to see through to 10th July

If roses are your passion then there’s still time to see some wonderful varieties in the setting of RHS Rosemoor which is well worth the trip down to Devon.

The rose trail at Rosemoor opened on 6th June but will run until 10th July. There’s also a special exhibition ‘The Rose’ which celebrates the nation’s favourite flower through the botanical art and rare book collection of the RHS Lindley library. There are also weekly floristry demonstrations running on 22nd and 29th June and 6th July where you can see guest florist in action creating displays for the visitor centre. Then there’s’ Rosemoor Late’ on Thursday 7th July, a rare chance to enjoy Rosemoor’s beautiful rose gardens in the evening air when you can stroll around the formal gardens listening to live music from harpist Susan Sherratt.

The plant centre and gift shop will remain open until 8pm and you can enjoy a delicious dinner in the garden kitchen restaurant from 6.30pm - booking essential on 01805 626821. From 6pm to 9pm.

RHS Garden Rosemoor, Torrington EX38 8PH. Tel: 01805 624067

BEAVERS RELEASED AT SECRET EAST DEVON LOCATION England’s only breeding wild population of beavers has grown thanks to the release of two further animals at a secret location in East Devon.

One adult female and one adult male beaver were released on Monday evening on private land close to the River Otter. The release was sanctioned by Natural England and was made by Devon Wildlife Trust as part of the River Otter Beaver Trial – a five year project being led by the charity which is studying the impact of England’s only wild beaver population.

People can follow the progress of the beavers and see video footage of their release at the Devon Wildlife Trust website www.devonwildlifetrust.org The River Otter Beaver Trial receives no government funding and it is estimated that it will cost the charity more than £500,000 over five years. People can help the project by donating to www.devonwildlifetrust.org/make-a-donation 6

Country Gardener

THE NORTH DEVON SHOW Celebrating our 50th anniversary

WEDNESDAY 3RD AUG

The North Devon Agricultural Society Est. 1966. Incorporating Instow & Torrington Shows Umberleigh Barton Farm, Umberleigh, EX37 9DX www.northdevonshow.com

Fast Rabbit Farm

Strawberry Valley, Dartmouth, TQ6 0NB Tel: 07813 504490

Garden created in sheltered valley with natural stream. Several ponds and lake, partially wooded, rockery, extensively planted, extends 43 acres with new woodland planting and walks created through woodland at head of valley.

Car Park. Some level walks. Teas.

Nursery with wide range of plants.

Open daily 11am - 5pm + Bank Holiday Mondays Admission £5, Children 50p Parties welcome by appointment. Dogs welcome on leads.

Disabled: Please phone prior to visit.

www.fastrabbitfarm.co.uk

Features in Google Maps, location Strawberry Valleys

Organic veg boxes delivered to your door We’ll bring you our books for inspiration on your 2nd & 4th deliveries

01364 661635 riverford.co.uk/vegboxstart1

ITALIAN GARDEN HOLIDAYS Small group tours with guided visits of Italian gardens

Travel by luxury small • coach

TUSCANY Visits to: Poggio Torselli, Villa Vignamaggio, Villa Geggiano, Villa Grabau, Villa Reale 2016: 4 Sep From £2250 per person

Maximum 14 people • per tour Local guides and guided • garden visits included

LAKES COMO AND MAGGIORE Visits to: Villa Babbianello, Villa Carlotta, Villa Monastero, Isola Bella, Isola Madre 2016: 5 Jul, 6 Sep From £2290 per person

Stay at 4 and 5 star • hotels, two per tour, 3 nights in each British Airways flights • included

AMALFI COAST, CAPRI AND ISCHIA Visits to: Villa Rufolo, Caserta, Villa San Michele Axel Munthe, La Mortella 2016: 15 Sep From £1990 per person

Extensions to each tour • can be arranged SPEAK TO OUR EXPERTS

01392 441275

ENVIRONS OF ROME Visits to: Villa d’Este, Bomarzo, Villa Lante, Giardino di Ninfa, Landriana 2016: 7 Sep From £2190 per person Please check our website for details of departure dates for 2017 as they are loaded. Bookings are already being taken for tours in 2017.

Country Gardener 7 June 2016 MH FIN.indd 1

THE ART OF INTELLIGENT TRAVEL ORGANISING FOUNDED 1989

www.expressionsholidays.co.uk www.countrygardener.co.uk

07/06/2016 09:05:39

7

Lobelia cardinalis

Lobelia erinus or the garden lobelia

Lovely LOBELIA Gill Heavens find a lot more to enjoy and savour from the 370 species of lobelia which offers beauty, diversity and not a little glamour What do most people think when they think of lobelia?

Summer bedding, hanging baskets, edging plants?

Well, although they fulfil these roles very well, there is a lot more to tell. There are approximately 370 species of lobelia, in the family campanulaceae. They come in many forms; annual, perennial and shrub, many of which live in tropical climes. However there are plenty of species that we can grow in this country, some easily and a few that need a little help from their friends.

Let us start with the lobelia we all know and hopefully love, Lobelia erinus, or the garden lobelia. Although not as exotic as some of its relatives we should not let its ubiquity turn our heads. This little plant, either trailing or upright, is invaluable in summer bedding schemes. A perennial in its native southern Africa, with clement conditions it may over winter or even self-seed in this country. The original species is blue with a touch of white, but cultivars are available in a range of blues, white, red and pink.

Although introduced as early as 1752 it was not until the Victorian era that it came into its own.

It remains hugely popular, and rightly so.

Lobelia cardinalis was described by Christopher Lloyd as “that tantalizing beauty” and it would be hard to better this description. The cardinal 8

Country Gardener

flower is a statuesque perennial with scarlet flowers on a spike up to 90cm tall. It was introduced here from North America in 1626 and it was named from the red attire worn by church cardinals. Good cultivars include ‘Bees Flame’, with its rich red, narrow leaves and crimson flowers, and ‘Queen Victoria’ which is valued for not only its stunning scarlet flowers but its splendid purple/red foliage.

Lobelia siphilitica, or the blue cardinal flower, comes from the Eastern US and arrived here in 1665. It was so named as the Native Americans used it as a cure for syphilis as well as an analgesic. This short-lived perennial enjoys damp soils, but will take more drought than L. cardinalis. In summer it produces many spikes of bright blue flowers, much loved by bees, and hummingbirds in its native environment.

For those who appreciate the exotic Lobelia tupa, or rather sinisterly named Devil’s Tobacco, will fit the bill. It arrived in this country from coastal Chile in 1884. It is on the tender side, but when you see it in full bloom you will agree that it is worth the extra effort. The downy grey/green foliage is a foil to the many spires of red-orange flowers which grow to a dramatic 2m in height. Site it in the warmest, most welldrained position in your garden and you will be well on your way to success. Another tender but stunning Chilean, Lobelia excelsa, is an evergreen subshrub with burnt orange tubular flowers.

The giant lovers amongst you need look no

Lobelia laxiflora, the Mexican Cardinal Flower

further than Lobelia gibberoa. To accommodate its metre long leaves and flowering spike of white flowers that reaches 6m, you will need a heated greenhouse. Something along the lines of the Temperate House at Kew Gardens! It was first discovered in the Mountains of the Moon in Kenya in the late 1930s and must have been an incredible sight for those who first spotted this mammoth.

If a little ill-discipline does not offend you then Lobelia laxiflora, or the Mexican Cardinal Flower, is the plant for you. This Central American native spreads by means of rhizomes to create a thick carpet of slender green foliage on woody stems. From late spring into late autumn it will produce understated but elegant red and yellow bi-coloured, tubular flowers.

Plant breeders have worked hard over the years and produced many fine varieties for us to choose from. These garden worthy hybrids are crosses between L. siphilicita and L. cardinalis, known generally as L. x speciosa. Some of my favourites include ‘Vedrariensis’, a sturdy plant whose 1m spikes of purple flowers will bless your borders all summer long. ‘Hadspen Purple’, raised in Hadspen House in Somerset, is possibly my favourite of them all, with succulent purple flowers growing up to 60cm. The Fan Series comes in colours from salmon through rose to burgundy and are especially vigorous. This can also be said of the German bred Compliment Series which will produce flowers in their first year.

Lobelia may be raised by seed, but remember that cultivars Lobelia siphilitica are unlikely to come true. When sowing don’t forget your specs and certainly don’t sneeze, as the seed is dust-like!

Propagation may also be achieved by dividing in spring or by taking basal cuttings.

Lobelia tupa, or rather sinister Molluscs may be ly named Devil’s Tobacco a problem early in the year, so be vigilant, otherwise they are relatively pest and disease free. Some people find the sap an irritant, so be careful when handling.

Mulch and feed and keep weed free. If you are caring for a borderline hardy specimen then protect in winter. Their care is really quite simple and you will be repaid ten-fold.

In the Victorian language of flowers the lobelia symbolises malevolence, which seems a little harsh, as I can see only good things.

If anyone can find any wickedness, let me know.

Otherwise, just sit back and enjoy the beauty and diversity of the lovely lobelia. www.countrygardener.co.uk

9

JOBS IN THE GARDEN

SUMMER

is progressing nicely July is often one of the hottest months of the year and a great time to sit out and enjoy your garden Keep plants looking good by regularly dead-heading, and you'll enjoy a longer display of blooms. Make sure you keep new plants well watered, using grey water where possible, and hoe off weeds, which thrive in the sunshine. July is also a very productive month.

By the end of it you could be swamped with delicious vegetables such as cucumbers, courgette, swiss chard, lettuce, beetroot and french beans.

A bumper fruit and vegetable harvest Now's the time to reap a lot of what you've sown, but remember there's still time to plant extra crops. Keep an eye on the watering and keep your fingers crossed for happy sunny summer days.

Catch vegetables while at their peak and harvest it regularly rather than leaving it to go woody or bittertasting. Remember that if you have more of something than you want to eat or store, it's just as useful to recycle it by adding it to the compost heap.

Limit tomato growth by pinching out the growing tip of your cordon tomato plant when it reaches the roof of the greenhouse. Pinch out the side-shoots as they develop.

Vegetables to sow outdoors in July include beetroot, carrots, dwarf French beans, lettuce, radishes and runner beans.

PEST AND DISEASE WATCH Keeping an eye on pests and diseases is crucial to keeping your garden looking good.

Inspect lilies for the scarlet lily beetle whose larvae can strip plants in days.

Vine weevils can also be a problem at this time of year.

Small holes and tears in new foliage of ornamentals such as caryopteris, 10

fuchsia and dahlia are most likely caused by capsid bug damage.

Watch out for aphids (greenfly and blackfly) on stems and leaves of young shoots.

Sudden collapse of apparently healthy clematis, especially the large-flowered cultivars, could indicate clematis wilt.

In dry weather powdery mildew can play havoc with plants such as clematis, roses and Lonicera.

Look out for and treat black spot on roses and scab on pyracantha.

Country Gardener

Encourage latesummer flowers Cut back early-flowering perennials to the ground and they will send up fresh leaves and maybe even the bonus of some extra late-summer flowers.

Give them a boost after pruning with a good soak of water and some tomato feed.

Exploit plants' desperate need to set seed by removing blooms as they fade.

This will encourage them to produce more flowers to replace them.

Remember that plants in containers are dependent on you for their water as they'll get little benefit from any rain.

Give them a good soak at least once a day in sunny weather.

Scarlet lily beetle

MAKING BULBS LAST A LITTLE LONGER Dahlias especially will be growing well, and for the plants to produce a greater number of flowers, the first bloom should be cut with a very short stem and avoid cutting into the flower buds below.

If larger flowers are required – remove the flower bud shoots (this is disbudding) below the main leading flower bud, which will strengthen the stem, and make the flower size noticeably larger.

By pinching out shoot tips on chrysanthemums in early July will encourage shoots to branch out and carry more blooms.

Time of cut backs Pinching out chrysanthemums will encourage new shoots

To reduce the chance of stone fruit being affected by silver leaf, prune cherries, plums and peaches in the summer. Silverleaf is an airbourne bacteria which enters the vascular system via a wound to weaken an affected tree by preventing it from photosynthesising properly. Prune in the winter and the bacteria will be drawn into the wound as sap retreats, but in the summer the rising sap will repel the alighting spores. Fan-trained peaches and cherries should have new limbs trained in from this years' growth once the fruit has been harvested.

Time for a feed

Net gain for your soft fruit

If you haven't done so already, net fruit to prevent the birds from getting to it first. Strawberries, currants and gooseberries are relatively easy to throw a temporary net over if you don't have the luxury of a fruit cage, but protecting a whole cherry tree is nigh-on impossible.

Wrap a single limb and leave the rest to the birds, or better still, grow cherries as a fan or a cordon. Dessert cherries favour a warm wall, but the tart Morello cherries like a cool north wall.

Remember to feed roses with a handful of blood, fish and bone after their first flush to repay them for the display they are providing you. Healthy roses are far less prone to disease, and foliar fortnightly feeding will keep them in good condition.

Feed tomatoes with a high-potassium liquid feed to encourage good truss production, and continue to pinch out side shoots. Feed pot plants and annual displays fortnightly. Make comfrey tea this year to produe an organic liquid feed. Fill a bucket with foliage and allow it to ferment for a week. It is a pungent brew, but it feels good to make your own fertiliser.

Glasshouse management Keeping the best conditions under glass can be a real challenge specially in the summer. Ensure good ventilationthe total ventilation area should equal one sixth of the floor space of a glasshouse. If possible leave vents,doors and louvre windows open when warm and sunny. Ventilation may not be enough so shading can also be used Exterior and interior shading materials such as plastic mesh, woven or knitted fabrics are other options. External roller blinds are a costly but aesthetically pleasing flexible and long term option. www.countrygardener.co.uk

11

Cowslips

How to grow a wild flower meadow If you have a patch of lawn in an open, sunny site, it could be transformed into a wildflower meadow. The results will be breathtaking and not difficult to achieve

Red campion

Red campion, cowslips and ragged robin are three favourites for any wild flower area 12

You don’t need a meadow to create a wild life area in your garden.

The space can be quite small –just a few rolls of turf but if you get it right you’ll never regret having an area of your garden given over to breathtaking colour and high summer beauty.

Apart from providing cover and food for wildlife, it requires far less maintenance than a traditional lawn and can be planted with a wide range of wildflowers to provide interest from spring to the end of summer.

It is important to choose the meadow that will be most successful on the garden you want to use • Perennial meadows thrive best on poor soils because the grasses compete less with the wildflowers. If you have rich soil, it is worth removing the top layer and sowing directly into dug or rotovated sub-soil • Annual meadows, usually of cornfield annuals, need rich soils. These are a good choice where you are converting an existing border Sow during March and April or in September, depending on soil conditions. On lighter soils, autumn-sown seeds generally germinate and establish quickly, although some will not come up until the following spring. This delay makes it advisable to wait until March or April on heavy soils, as waterlogging may cause the seed and seedlings to rot during winter.

Garden ‘wildflower’ seed mixes and/or plants (which may contain non-natives or be of unknown provenance) should not be sown in the wider countryside or close to environmentally sensitive areas.

Lawns that are naturally low in fertility are ideal, but if

yours isn't, there are several things you can do to bring the nutrient levels down and prevent vigorous grasses from taking over. Stop using fertilisers and weed killers, and mow the lawn regularly, keeping the grass very short.

Remove all clippings to prevent nutrients being returned to the soil. You may need to keep this up for two years until it's ready to be planted with wildflowers.

Preparing the ground For small areas, remove weeds by hand or cover with black plastic or a weed-suppressing membrane for at least three months prior to sowing.

For larger areas and where vigorous perennial weeds, such as nettles, docks and dandelions, are present in large numbers, non-chemical control methods may not be effective. In these situations instead spray off existing vegetation (unless it is already species-rich) using nonresidual systemic glyphosate-containing weedkillers Dig or rotovate the soil, then firm and rake to make a seedbed as for a new lawn Don't incorporate manure or fertiliser as high fertility encourages excessive vigour in grasses that then crowd out the wildflowers Allow four to six weeks for the soil to settle and for any weed seeds to germinate. Spray or hoe these off before sowing On very fertile soils it may be an advantage to remove the top soil but, for anything other than the smallest area, this requires machinery.

Sowing Even large areas can be sown by hand quite easily Rates will vary between individual mixes but, as a rough guide, pure wildflower seed should be sown at one gramme per square metre )and wildflower and grass seed mixes at 5grammes per square metre per sq m These tiny amounts can be difficult to broadcast evenly so mix the seed with silver sand to make it easier to handle To further ensure that the seed is scattered evenly, sow half lengthways and the remaining half widthways.

Rake in lightly, water thoroughly and leave them to grow naturally. However, be prepared to protect the seed with netting if birds prove to be a problem

How to plant

How t o cheat

If you have a bare area of soil, try la ying wildflower turf. This is natura lly low in nutrient s and supplied in rolls so it can be laid like a normal lawn. It contains 50 per ce nt grasses and 50 per cent native wildflowers, includ ing ox-eye daisy, bu gle, yarrow, yellow rattle and birds-foot trefoil, available from a number of specia list suppliers.

Cut again in spring.

After removing the grass, rake up all debris to prevent nutrients from being returned to the soil.

What to plant Ox-eye daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare) - white daisy flowers Sorrel (Rumex acetosa) - spikes of reddish flowers and crimson leaves in summer Cowslip (Primula veris) - yellow flowers on long stalks Ragged robin (Lychnis flos cuculi) - delicate pink flowers Red Campion (Silene dioica) - large pink or red flowers

Converting a lawn to a meadow

Lawns can be converted into wildflower meadows, but it can take a number of years for the balance between grass and wildflowers to be established.

• Stop feeding and weedkilling the turf • In the first year, continue mowing weekly to weaken the grass • Some wild species will establish and thrive • Raise others from seed, introducing them as one- to twoyear-old pot-grown plants planted into holes in the turf Many wildflower suppliers offer plug plants that are ideal for planting into an established lawn. For a natural look, plant in small groups of the same plant

The wildflowers you use largely depend on your soil conditions, personal preference, and if you have a colour scheme in mind. Wildflowers will establish best if planted in the autumn as small plug plants.

For a natural look, arrange these in groups across the lawn and take out a core of soil using a trowel.

Drop a handful of compost into the bottom of the hole to help plugs establish quickly.

Water and spread leaf mould around each plug to help it grow without competition.

Aftercare Cut the grass at the end of summer after most of the wildflowers have had a chance to set seed.

If you only have a small meadow, use a strimmer or a scythe.

Larger areas can be cut with a mower, aiming to leave grass no taller than about one centimetre. www.countrygardener.co.uk

13

Kenneth and June Ashburner the couple started creating the gardens at Stone Lane in 1970

June Ashburner

an inspiration for sculptures in gardens For 45 years the gardens at Stone Lane on the edge of Dartmoor have been known for their wonderful trees and even more significant an inspiration for the use of sculpture in gardens June Ashburner, the owner of Stone Lane Gardens has died in hospital after a short illness. June will be remembered for creating the imaginative ‘Mythic Garden Sculpture Exhibition’, held every year at Stone Lane Gardens.

Twenty five years ago, June had the imagination to recognise that the developing arboretum would make a lovely setting for creative artwork. Being a talented painter herself, and the owner of Chagford Gallery for many years, June knew many local artists.

She encouraged them to create and exhibit sculptures amongst the trees and flowers at Stone Lane Gardens. Many of the original artists are still regular exhibitors at the gardens. But June also recognised and encouraged new talent from younger artists, bringing a fresh look into the annual exhibition. June often said that the exhibition helped turn garden lovers into art lovers, and art lovers into garden enthusiasts.

June and her husband Kenneth began creating the gardens in 1970, initially buying a small piece of land opposite the house and then expanding the gardens as Kenneth’s collections of trees multiplied.

The emerging arboretum was carefully and artfully landscaped.

Kenneth’s naturalistic planting style created a very informal woodland feel. A peaceful and calming space, where visitors could relax and enjoy the beautiful trees, dappled shade and the wild-life that such a place encouraged. Into this space, June carefully introduced works of art. Choosing pieces that fitted well within the informal woodland, each piece framed by the

14

trees and plants around it. Visitors often comment on how much they enjoy seeing sculpture in such a lovely setting – an accolade to the success of June’s vision.

Children too enjoy the gardens.

The freedom to explore the woodland and discover sculpture behind a group of trees or round the corner of a narrow path.

The educational value of such a unique environment is not lost on teachers. Today Stone Lane Gardens hosts visits by many local schools, providing a learning experience way beyond the possibilities of the classroom. The young students leave with wonderful memories and stories, sometimes writing to June afterwards to express their thanks in the form of creative artwork or poems. June always loved to receive these letters.

Many artists became good friends and would often pop in to say hello. One artist who began exhibiting in 2008 said “I was so excited and enthusiastic to exhibit in the arboretum; such a wonderful space to share with other talented artists…

Every year after installing my work, I was invited into the house. “Mind the step”, she would always say as you walked through the hallway with its darkened, shiny parquet floor into the living room and to the toasty conservatory for tea and cake which resulted in absorbing and expansive chats. June was a talented painter herself and was always a pleasure to spend time with, endlessly enthusiastic and complimentary about peoples work. She always had a twinkle in her eye and a delightfully dry sense of humour. I always ended up staying much longer than intended! I shall miss her greatly.”

After Kenneth’s death in 2010, June formed a charity to help look after the gardens and the exhibition that they had created and nurtured. June continued to take a very active role in the management of Stone Lane Gardens. She leaves behind a wonderful legacy, that the charity will continue to maintain and enhance.

June’s creation, The Mythic Garden Sculpture Exhibition, continues to enthral visitors. This year it runs until the end of October with around 100 sculptures on display. Stone Lane Gardens is open seven days a week, from 2-6pm. The Barn Gallery now hosts shorter exhibitions during the summer months. In July the gardens are showing textile picture and paintings by Hilary Eckleswood and Sara Gilbert. More details and directions can be found on www.stonelanegardens.com or by phoning 01647 231311.

Stone Lane Gardens Arboretum and Tree Nursery, Newton Abbot, Devon Tel: 01647 231311

Country Gardener

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15

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR GARDEN IN HIGH SUMMER Enjoying the garden in summer is much more than just wandering admiring plants or even worrying about weeds. It’s a time to enjoy the long summer evenings and outdoor lifestyle, a world away from winter nights.

It's also time to make sure your garden is in its best condition for you to enjoy and that may mean maintenance jobs such as with your conservatory, the way your garden is designed and it maybe your pond needs attention. Here’s some help and advice on hand.

Time to give your conservatory some extra summer care

and useable room, no matter what the weather. These specialist Conservatory Blinds blinds also protect your furniture and furnishings from fading due to UV. With up to 25% off the most popular fabrics, now is the perfect time to buy your blinds. For price guides and inspirational online gallery visit www.conservatoryblinds.co.uk or call 0800 071 88 88.

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Valet Guard is a protective barrier treatment that repels dirt and contaminants and can help to protect from unnecessary repairs.

Exposure to British weather means conservatories are prone to dirt and pollutants, leaf build up, and algae. Leaving grime causes long-term damage. The service includes an external valet and internal cleaning.

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During the warmer summer months your garden can become an extension of your home, providing an outdoor area for dining and sitting, from dawn until dusk.

Strategically placed lighting or candles can be atmospheric and extend the length of time you have to enjoy your garden.

Growing scented plants near to your seating area is also a good idea. If you are only able to sit and enjoy your garden in the evening night scented plants might be the best option.

The sound of rustling leaves from plants such as grasses and the bubbling of a water feature also adds to the ambience.

If you are overlooked, utilising overhead screening can help create a more private area and where external noise is a problem, erecting sound reducing fencing may be worth considering.

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Country Gardener

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Hooray for some new additions to the already abundant and attractive range of fencing that we offer. And even if I say it myself, I think they are some winners in this new crop!

We’ve noticed that even though a lot of our customers prefer to stick with traditional types of fencing, like featherboard (AKA closeboard), there has been a sizeable swing towards the more modern and clean lined panels like our Venetian. In fact, this style has become so popular that we’ve found it has been imitated, I’d say in most cases rather poorly!

and light can still pass through, but the view through is obscured.

Another big benefit is they are what we refer to as ‘good both sides’ so you and your neighbours don’t have a view of rails, which can be a bone of contention.

I’m aware I’m only going have enough space to tell you about two of our lovely ‘newbies’ here, so will save the other additions for another time, and tell you about my personal favourite; Tartan trellis, there it is at the top of the page, how pretty is that? I think it fits into the ‘less is more’ school of design – by not putting a baton at every third spacing, we’ve created a pattern that looks really great. I’m amazed at how effective it looks.

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The first new panel to introduce you to is a variation on the Venetian theme; I just mentioned how popular they are, but I’d say the one draw back is its see-throughness. It looks contemporary and sleek, complimenting the chic suburban garden beautifully. But when it comes to the balancing act of light versus privacy, the scales come down heavily in favour of light, and privacy is sacrificed!

So how do you get the stylish look of horizontal slats that still allows some air and light through, but doesn’t allow the neighbours a view of you baring your body to catch some rays?

Answer: new Venetian Hit and Miss panels. They look as stylish as standard Venetian, but have another set of horizontal slats on the other side. These are fixed to cover the space between the slats on the first side. The slats alternate, in much the same way as hit and miss panels are made. Which means some air

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expensive heating and reducing your carbon footprint.

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Summer and the overheating conservatory needs attention Now that summer is here, conservatory owners don’t need reminding they need to address the problem of overheating.

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Econergy Systems are specialists in the supply and installation of a Solar Shield which when fitted to a conservatory roof, stops 80 per cent of the heat and glare before it enters the roof, unlike blinds that only stop the heat once it is inside. If you already have roof blinds, you need a Solar Shield to keep heat out, and to protect your expensive blinds. If you are considering an expensive solid roof replacement, remember you will lose the light airy feel, often the reason you purchased the conservatory originally. A Solar Shield helps in retaining heat in winter, saving

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Perfect Ponds, based in Bridgwater, offers comprehensive maintenance programmes for your garden ponds. That means everything from a regular check up to a visit when your pond needs special attention.

Perfect Pond’s business is small enough to offer a personal service but big enough to take on construction and water features work. The business was set up 16 years ago by Martin Cockell, a pond enthusiast and professional expert. During the past century nearly 70 per cent of ponds have been lost from the UK countryside meaning garden ponds and water features have more importance for wildlife. Perfect Ponds offers the highest quality standards for your pond.

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19

SUMMER PLANTING The start of high summer and hopefully warm weather and the ideal time of year to be planting so how should you deal with purchases at this time of the year The months of June and July are often dry and warm, and aren’t the best time for planting.

The soil can be unforgiving and it’s easy to lose plants. But that shouldn’t stop you from buying and adding things into your garden and there are a few practical steps you can take to make sure anything you buy in summer thrive and add instant attraction – or be ready in place for the following year.

In the hot weather your plants will be needing plenty of water so make sure that you are saving all your ‘grey’ water (old wash water etc.) and water either early in the morning or evening to ensure that the plants receive as much of the water as possible without it evaporating.

You should cut back half of all perennials that have flowered, such as lupins and delphinums.

If you are lucky this should persuade more flowers to grow later on in the season. You should also weed and deadhead regularly making sure that you check for any pests. All faded heads on the annuals should be removed and cuttings can be taken of non-flowering shoots of shrubs and climbers.

You should take cuttings of fuchias, abutilions and heliotropes.

In preparation for spring you should sow cinerarias and calceolarias.

PLANT FOR IMMEDIATE IMPACT Planting in summer is normally aimed at infilling any spaces in the border or other areas of the garden. It is important to maintain displays and there’s nothing worse than seeing that awkward patch of soil in the border which is crying out to be filled.

Try adding groups of full-grown lilies into the border when in full flower. The same can be done with gladiolus corms planted to inject later colour. Even add your container pots of colorful plants or flowers which might be sitting elsewhere and would benefit by being added to a border.

WATER AND MORE WATER Planting in summer is different. The soil has to be extra especially well prepared using either home grown compost or well-rotted manure. This is vital to allow plants to move willingly into the soil. Dig holes for the plants, put the plant in 20

position and lightly backfill with soil but don’t firm in the soil and water in generously – at least one gallon per plant. If the weather is dry double that amount. This ensures as many roots as possible are in contact with the soil so that new growth can start immediately.

CUTTING BACK IN SUMMER Trim back flowering stems and even some growth if it is difficult to hydrate plants –it will help promote growth next year. Flowering shrubs such as lilac and forsythia should be pruned as soon as they finish flowering to encourage late flush of flower and you should also be removing seedpods from rhododendrons and azalea. While you are at it, spread compost or shredded bark around trees, shrubs and roses when the soil is moist to help contain valuable moisture during the hot weather. Clip hedges and topiary and feed them well.

DEALING WITH DRY CONDITIONS Lack of moisture in the soil together with high temperatures make planting difficult in summer months.

Plants need to be fully hydrated before you plant them out.

Stand the pot in a tray filled with water or immerse the entire plant in a bucket of water and wait until air bubbles cease to emerge.

‘Pudding-in’ is another system. Ensure the plant is well soaked – you can use half strength liquid fertiliser to water it. Dig a hole, fill with water then let it drain before placing in the plant.

Tender perennials may need cutting back a little harder rather than just deadheading to create a bushier plant and to promote a good late summer display.

POTTING ON PLANTS Many plants you might buy in the summer are sold in small pots which restrict their root space and there is often not much space above the top of the compost in which water can sit, thus making watering inefficient. Even if you intend to plant out within a couple of weeks it is worth potting on simply because this will help when watering the plant. When you repot make sure there is a gap between the growing level and the pot lip to form a reservoir in which water can sit.

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Pinus nigra nigra (Austrian Pine) - a constituent of windbreaks, screens and shelterbelts

Mighty

evergreens Grown for privacy, shelter or even to hide an unsightly building evergreen trees can also be things of great beauty. Kevin Croucher selects his top five and reveals some stories behind them

1. Eucryphia x nynansensis ‘Nymansay’

2. Magnolia grandiflora (Bull Bay)

A hybrid that originated in Sussex about 1915, it can reach between 30 and 50 feet. It has dark evergreen leaves that can be simple or pinnate on the same branch. The habit is a narrow column, so a 30ft tree would be less than 10ft across.

Whilst providing an excellent vertical evergreen structural element in a garden setting, this is not its main role. In late summer the entire plant is clothed from top to bottom in single white flowers that look a bit like small rose blooms, at a time when blossoming trees are very thin on the ground. They have a modest scent and are very attractive to bees.

Much hardier than many people credit, if this species is exposed to cold drying east winds, the leaves will brown around the edges, but grow away again in spring. It will also put up with less good soil conditions than some of the other Eucryphia.

For the geographers amongst you this is a hybrid between two Chilean species that come from the Pacific temperate rainforest that clothes the western slopes of the Andes.

The same sort of country that is the home to the Monkey Puzzle tree Araucaria araucana. So the fact that this hybrid thrives all the way up the west side of the British Isles is no Eucryphia x nynansensis ‘Nymansay’- in real surprise. late summer the plant is clothed in single

First introduced in to Britain in the 18th century from south eastern North America, it became popular but was considered a little tender, so was often grown or trained against a south wall. Nowadays, with climate change it is reliably hardy and often seen as a free standing large leaved evergreen tree across southern and western England and into the Midlands and Wales, growing up to 30 feet tall, but it does need heat to initiate flowering, so appropriate cultivar Magnolia grandiflora (Bull Bay) selection is important. buckets of rich perfume that waft It is tolerant of all soils save their scent around on warm summer afternoons waterlogged and in hot courtyards will thrive on the reflected heat of the paving and any adjacent walls. However, if grown from seed it may take over 20 years for these trees to flower, so most are propagated from cuttings of named clones to ensure early flowering.

Some of the continental selections do not get hot enough in our climate to initiate flower buds well, so I recommend the varieties ‘Exmouth’ and ‘Victoria’ as being two of the best for us Brits. Large “instant” specimens that are imported from Italy are generally a variety called ‘Gallisoniere’. This cultivar is fine on the continent and will flower okay in London and parts of the south east, but is unreliable in the cooler summer temperatures found further west and north.

Flowering occurs at the tips of the current years shoots. The flowers are large, up to ten inches across and very sweetly scented, white to ivory and occur from late July through to the first frosts. I sometimes refer to them as buckets, due to their sheer size, but buckets of rich perfume that waft their scent around on warm summer afternoons. They are truly

white flowers like small rose blooms 22

Country Gardener

sumptuous and most people cannot avoid thrusting their faces in to the blooms and feasting on the scent.

3. Pinus nigra nigra (Austrian Pine) The Austrian Pine Pinus nigra nigra naturally occurs through central Europe, and the Balkans to Turkey. First introduced to Britain via Lawsons Nursery in Edinburgh in 1835, it is seen throughout Britain, with some very fine specimens existing from the early to mid 19th century. It makes a large tree with a dense head of dark green needles carried on a stout structure of stem and branches with grey bark peeling in large attractive plates. Tending to branch from too low to make a useful timber tree, it is generally seen as a parkland specimen or as a constituent of windbreaks, screens and shelterbelts. It can be seen throughout southern and midland England as unlike many pines it is very tolerant of alkaline soils; the Austrian Alps largely being limestone. There is a fine stand on a chalky headland at Seaton in east Devon and the notable belt of pines on the east bank of the River Otter near its mouth at Budleigh Salterton is mostly Austrian Pine. They look straight down the English Channel at the approaching winds from the Atlantic.

Besides being a strikingly beautiful tree, it is also of great utility. It is deep rooting, drought tolerant and very wind stable, will thrive on a range of soils from dry sand to heavy clay and can also withstand wind off the sea, so it is an ideal candidate for very up market shelter belt planting.

5. Sequoiadendron giganteum.

Again we are in to another tale of a famous tree and a famous Exeter nursery. By the mid 19th century, Veitch of Exeter was the most significant plant nursery in Europe, sending out 27 plant hunters all over the world and breeding new hybrids of both hardy and tender “hot house” plants. Started before 1808 the company survived in to the mid 20th century whist collecting for Veitch. The resulting seedlings were sold extensively throughout Britain and continental Europe.

Originally named Wellingtonia to celebrate the famous Duke,

4. Quercus x lucombeana ‘William Lucombe’ (also known as Quercus x hispanica

‘Lucombeana’) This is a tale of Exeter history about a famous nursery and a magnificent tree. William Lucombe founded a nursery in St Thomas outside the Exeter city walls in 1720 and the business lasted with several generations until 1890, becoming Lucombe and Pince in the 1820s. This hybrid tree was noticed in a batch of Turkey oak seedlings about 1762. It is a cross between a Cork oak (Quercus suber) and a Turkey Oak (Quercus cerris) that occurs in the wild in southern Europe with the parents and where it gives variable progeny. The Exeter hybrid is a very distinctive tree and some of the original 18th century specimens are still to be seen around the Exeter area. The nursery produced the tree well into the 19th century, so many fine specimens are to be seen around British parks and gardens. The first specimen was planted at Kew Gardens in 1773.

It is a fast growing, ultimately large tree, taking its size and vigour from the Turkey oak parent. It exceeds 100 feet at maturity, with a broad head of well balanced large branches.

The bark is quite soft and corky, but not as much as the Cork oak parent.

Quercus x lucombeana ‘William Lucombe’- the first specimen was planted at Kew Gardens in 1773

Sequoiadendron giganteum- introduced to European cultivation by the famous Cornish collector William Lobb from the Sierra Nevada in California in 1853,

Prime Minister and victor of Waterloo, it was subsequently reclassified, but this persists as a common name in Britain. It is also known as Giant Redwood or in the U.S. as Big Tree, it being the largest tree by volume in the world. Living in excess of 3,000 years old, some trees in California exceed 300ft in height and 25 feet in stem diameter. The largest specimens in Britain are about 190 feet tall, but siting is important. Unless they are grown in deep sheltered valleys, the tips are snapped out by storms once they exceed the height of other sheltering trees or hills. Even so, they make mighty elements in the landscape.

Growth is rapid and the tree soon forms an impressive broadly conical crown of green scale like leaves. As the tree matures it also develops the spongy red bark typical of the redwoods..

The species has little value as a timber tree, being rather brittle due to its rapid growth, so is grown purely as thing of beauty.

Thornhayes Nursery is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2016 with a series of events based in and around the Cullompton Nursery.

Thornhayes Nursery, St Andrews Wood, Dulford, Cullompton, Devon EX15 2DF. Tel: 01884 266746 Email: trees@ thornhayes-nursery.co.uk. www.thornhayes-nursery.co.uk.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday 8am to4pm; Saturday 9.30am to 1pm Sundays and Bank Holidays closed.

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ASK OUR EXPERTS

ANY QUESTIONS?

Our Country Gardener experts can solve your gardening problems

Andrew Midgley and Gill Heavens two of our popular experts help with out more of your gardening questions.If you have a question for any of our panel then let us know via email at alan@countrygardener.co.uk or by writing to us a Country Gardener c/o Mount House, Halse, Taunton Somerset TA4 3AD Q. I am finding it very difficult to grow plants on a bank that is in full sun where the soil dries out very quickly.

I’ve tried a number of things but nothing seems to last very long. Can someone suggest some suitable plants?

A. One of my favourite gardening mantras is “right plant, right place”. This seemingly obvious horticultural approach is most famously championed by Beth Chatto in her fabulous Essex garden. The Beth Chatto Garden boasts extremely dry and very wet areas, both of which are superbly planted and extremely successful. In short, if you select plants that naturally enjoy the same conditions that you have on offer, you should have few problems. With a little bit of research you will find plenty of plants whose natural habitat is just what you have, a sunny slope.

Helianthemum Ben Fhada – or the rock rose will thrive in sunny conditions

Speaking from experience, gardening on a slope is difficult for the gardener as well. Just keeping upright and not falling on any of your prized specimens is hard enough, let alone doing any work. So I would suggest something that I rarely advise, in part for fear of putting myself out of a job, choose low maintenance plants. Osteospermums will adore being placed here and will make a carpet of colour with little or any maintenance. Select the hardier O. jucundum or O. ecklonis and their cultivars, which come in a range of colours. The rock rose, helianthemum will also thrive here, available in many vibrant hues with the tough grey-green leaves typical of sun lovers. This delicate but tough plant will grow to a maximum of 30cm in height. It will sprawl over the soil catching every available ray and sharing its many blooms. For a larger shrub try one of the cistus, also known as rock rose, which come in a variety of pinks, purples and whites, often blotched centrally with a dark thumb print. Rhizomatous iris love having a good summer roasting and will make good spot plants across the area. Try some grasses for texture, Festuca ‘Elijah Blue’ will associate well with Lithodora diffusa ‘Heavenly Blue’ which will produce a cascade of azure flowers from late spring to late summer. Alliums will provide early summer interest and the 24

buttercup yellow Sternbergia lutea some brightness in autumn.

As you can see there is plenty to choose from, and I could go on, and on! Choose carefully and soon you will have a sunny bank full of colour and year round interest.

Gill Heavens Q. We are having trouble with a six year old two metre high taxus baccata hedge. We planted 150 plants in double rows with two foot between plants and 2ft between rows. The hedges are now about two feet wide but over the past few years we have lost about twenty plants which first showed bronzing and then a drying of the foliage. We have been careful to keep the plants watered but not drowned. Is this a virus and what action do we need to take?

A. I love yew hedges and as it happens I have planted a few hedges over the years when I worked for the National Trust. Yews do not like to be water logged or be planted in poor soil with inadequate drainage and the bronze colouring is a possible indicator of stress due to aforementioned water logging. It’s What’s the problem with important to give my taxus baccata hedge? your yew hedge some blood, fish and bone or Growmore on an annual basis. Simply scatter the granules and lightly fork in and water well. I would also apply a layer of mulch (2 to 3 inches depth) of composted garden leaves annually to help suppress the weeds and to retain soil moisture and to keep the roots cool. You say you don’t ‘drown them’ but after two years they should have their roots firmly in the ground and therefore watering shouldn’t be needed particularly if you apply an annual layer of mulch. My advice is to ease off the watering and carry out what I think you should do as above. Hopefully next year you will see a different in your hedge. Only then I would think about buying replacement yew hedges and only then from a reputable tree nursery from the UK. Andrew Midgley

Country Gardener

Q. My wife has asked me if we could plant a chamomile lawn. While the idea sounds quite appealing I am not sure where to start and I wonder if it will be worth it. Some advice please?

A. The first thing you need to establish is that the ‘lawn’ must be in a sunny place with free draining soil. If you are on clay then that’s your ‘get out clause’! It goes without saying that the intended area must be thoroughly weeded and forked over before planting the chamomile. The more plants you buy to plant closer the quicker the chamomile

Aconite damage more than likely to be environmental

Chamomile lawn - spectacular but needs the sunshine and not hard wearing

will knit together. After planting, you should not walk on it at all for at least six months, preferably a year except to carefully weed out any pernicious weeds. The disadvantages of this particular type if lawn is that it is not hard wearing so would be no good if the lawn is heavily used but the advantage of it is that it is low maintenance requiring a light mow to take off the flowers in the summer.

Andrew Midgley Q. We have a row of very healthy aconitum or monkshood plants at the back of our border - well away from the danger to visitors of accidental contact.

Every year, the foliage comes up strongly but several of the lead buds turn jet black and slimy, together with some nearby leaf tips. Every year, I carefully pluck these parts off and burn them and the plants go on to flower beautifully - with no further trouble. However, I lose several of the main flower buds. Can you tell me what is the cause of this and whether there is any effective treatment?

A. As you so sensibly point out, great care must be taken when dealing with the undeniably beautiful aconites, otherwise known as monkshood. As others might not be so well informed, I must first mention that great care should be taken when handling these herbaceous perennials. The reason for caution is because they are extremely toxic. This sinister fact should not however prevent us from growing this wonderful plant in our gardens, just be careful, forewarned is forearmed! To be

honest you have me stumped on this one. I have scoured books, the internet, and asked the opinion of well-educated folk. Everyone agrees that disease is rare in these plants.

So with a little horticultural sleuthing , it seems to me that the problem is environmental. Early flowering Aconitum napellus, the common monkshood, can be in full bloom

by May and therefore is doing a lot of its initial growing in early spring. Although a hardy species, the young growth and buds are more vulnerable to icy winds and low temperatures than seasoned foliage. When damage occurs to this immature material they are more susceptible to secondary infections. As the year progresses and the weather warms the remaining buds are unsullied by cold and therefore go on to produce the array of wonderful towers of blue. This theory is the best I can offer but if you wish for a more definitive explanation then the laboratories at RHS Wisley may be able to help you out. Their service is free to members of the Royal Horticultural Society and details of where and how to send samples of the afflicted plants can be found at www.rhs.org.uk.

Gill Heavens

Meet our Experts..

Gill Heavens studied horticulture at Cannington College in Somerset before moving to coastal North Devon. After eight years as a head gardener she has now branched out on her own. The Heavenly Gardener can be found being angelic in a variety of local gardens. Read about her adventures at offtheedgegardening.wordpress.com Andrew Midgley worked for the National Trust for 17 years and was recently Garden Manager for the National Trust gardens for Coleton Fishacre, Greenway and Compton Castle. He is now running a gardening business in the Newton Abbot area.

www.countrygardener.co.uk

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THE SKY’S THE LIMIT! If you are short of space to grow your own then there are some excellent vegetables which grow well vertically in pots or in open ground When space is tight and when, as a keen kitchen gardener, you've simply run out of space there's only one option left – head skywards!

Given the burgeoning popularity of container gardening, it's evident that garden sizes are steadily shrinking.

Vertical growing is the ultimate technique for bijou gardens that makes use of the one dimension that there's plenty of; in this instance the sky really is the limit!

Vertical vegetable growing has come of age over the past few years, with many offthe-shelf contraptions helping space-strapped gardeners get the most from their plot. The Vertical growing cucumber and melons really clever ones can turn a bland garden wall into a fresh flush of salads, herbs and fruit.

Meanwhile there's all manner of climbing vegetables that can be tied into position which will help you to boost productivity from the 26

Country Gardener

Even lettuces can be trained to grow spectacularly

smallest of areas.

Climbing vegetables such as the ubiquitous runner beans have long been grown up canes and wigwams providing height and interest as well as a productive harvest but there are many more options for ‘vertical veg’ than just familiar peas and beans.

Plants’ such as tomatoes and aubergines grow neatly and brilliantly up simple bamboo canes while new introductions of mini cucumbers and pumpkins will cheerfully ramble their way up whatever support you give them. New selections of traditionally large vegetable plants such as courgettes that usually scramble along a plot and take up a lot of room have been bred to climb and cling to supports. Plants also get more light giving them the freedom and room to climb and scramble; this helps to avoid problems caused by poor air circulation and fungal problems such as mildew.

Vulnerable plants are also out of the way of slugs giving higher yields and better harvests.

Choosing the site A south-facing wall will receive the full heat of summer sun for most of the day, which has both benefits and limitations. Walls that are southwest and west-facing will also be suitable for container vegetable growing.

Preparing containers Almost anything can be used as a container.

Almost any vegetable that can be grown in a garden will also work well as a containergrown plant. Nearly any type of container can be used for growing vegetable plants. Old washtubs, wooden crates, gallon-sized coffee cans, and even five-gallon buckets can be implemented for growing crops as long as they provide adequate drainage.

Hanging baskets Hanging baskets can be placed on the balcony or on suitable hangers. Numerous types of vegetables can be grown in hanging baskets, especially those with trailing characteristics. Peppers and cherry tomatoes not only look good in hanging baskets, so do trailing plants, such as the sweet potato vine, but they also thrive nicely in them. Keep them watered daily, however, since hanging baskets are more prone to drying out, especially during hot spells.

Trellises can be used for the support of trailing or vine crops. A fence can also serve as a trellis for beans, peas, tomatoes and vine crops like squash and cucumbers.

Using corn stalks or sunflowers is another great way to take advantage of vertical space while making interesting pole supports for beans and other climbing vegetables. Use a stepladder as a makeshift trellis to support vine-growing plants like pumpkins.

GOOD P ERF ORMERS

Aubergine ‘Mohican' AGM Basils ‘Minette’, ‘Siam Queen’ and ‘Sweet Genoese’ Chilli pepper ‘Prairie Fire’ Coriander Cucumber ‘Marketmore’ Lettuces ‘Salad Bowl’ AGM and ‘Salad Bowl Red’ AGM Oregano Parsley ‘Curlina’ Rocket Squash/ courgette ‘Tromboncino’ Tomatoes ‘Tumbling Tom Red’ and ‘Tumbling Tom Yellow’

DISAPP OINT ING P ERF ORMERS

Climbing French bean 'Violet Podded Stringless’ Nasturtium ‘African Queen’ Runner bean ‘Painted Lady’ Spring onion ‘Rossa Lunga di Firenze’

W HY VER T ICAL VEG?

• Makes great us e of space.

• New selection of plants have be en specially bred to climb.

• Vegetable clim bers look great w hen in full season.

• Growing upwar ds gives them mor e light and freedom to romp.

• Less likely to be hit by fungal prob lems.

• They are out of the way of slugs he nce bigger yields and better crops.

HERE’S SOME GREAT OPTIONS TO TRY Climbing French bean ‘Borlotto Lingua di Fuoco' Usually available only as 'Lingua di Fuoco’ the glorious pods (and to a greater or lesser degree, the beans) are speckled crimson and cream. Beans are classic space saving crops and if you have space for only one make it this one. Beans hate cold so you can wait to sow until June. Station two beans per spot and thin out the weaker seedling. Provide plants grown against a fence with netting to climb up. Beans are thirsty so water well and mulch in summer to conserve water.

Courgette ‘Tromboncino’ The best of all the climbing courgettes although you could argue it’s a squash with a distinctive trombone shaped fruit which is delicious and tasty. The fruit can be eaten young as courgettes or allowed to grow a little more as a squash when ripe and orange. Sow seeds on the edges rather than flat as this prevents rotting. Place one plant per wigwam or arch in a sunny sheltered spot. Unlike most courgettes this cultivar has climbing tendrils which will take it up and over supports but remember to help plants in the fruit by tying in stems regularly as well.

Aubergine ‘Moneymaker’ Aubergines can struggle in the UK climate as they need a long, warm, sunny season to flower, fruit and ripen by autumn but you’ve a better chance than most that ‘Moneymaker’ will be successful. It’s a F. hybrid bred to cope with low temperatures and gives reliable crops. You need to sow early in March in a greenhouse. Once plants reach about 30cms pinch out the main tip to encourage sideshoots. Tie the plants in regularly to their supporting frames. Give a liquid feed every two weeks as soon as the first fruits start to appear. www.countrygardener.co.uk

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July brings a huge choice of

DAYS OUT TO ENJOY

July and high summer means the business time of the year for garden openings garden shows, places to visit and the wonderful delight of days out. There’s a huge choice of where to go and what to do. We’ve just a few ideas for you to think about -all with gardens and gardening in mind.

New opportunity to visit gardens at 17th century Friars Court Enclosed within the remaining arms of a 16th century moat, the gardens surrounding 17th century Friars Court divide into smaller ‘room-like’ areas of borders and specimen trees.

To the front of the house are ponds of water-lilies whilst a woodland walk lies beyond the imposing Yew Arch and ‘Monet’ style moat bridge. The gardens within the moat were re-landscaped in the late 1960s by John Willmer who added specimen trees - ornamental cherry, silver pear, liquidambar and a fine tulip tree – to existing features such as the arched moat bridge and the monumental yew arch which stands beside it. The grounds are now quietly evolving again within this original framework. Homemade cream teas are served in the garden room whilst plants and gifts are for sale in the shop.

The grounds of Friars Court are open every Tuesday and Thursday, in July, August and September from 2pm - 6pm, for those who also want to enjoy the hospitality this historic family home has to offer.

Friars Court, Clanfield, Oxfordshire OX18 2SU Tel: 01367 810206 www.friarscourt.com

Exhibition impresses at Hartland Abbey During last winter at Hartland Abbey the only two remaining areas of accumulated junk, which had never been cleared since World War II, were finally tackled. Now a wonderful exhibition area has emerged in what was the wartime housekeeper’s room and a new overflow tea room in the original Coal Hole provides lots of extra seating on wet days and a display of garden photographs. The first display on ‘The History of the Hartland Abbey Estate’ is already up and running and from late June ‘Filming at Hartland Abbey since 1934’ starts. This will be a fascinating insight into filming on the estate from ‘The Phantom Light’ in 1934 until BBC TV’s acclaimed ‘The Night Manager’’ recently. The new exhibition area is open from 11.30am. See www.hartlandabbey.com for further details.

Ugbrooke House & Gardens Just off A380 Nr. Chudleigh TQ13 0AD House, Grounds and Tearooms Opening times ~

Sunday 10th July until Thursday 22nd Sept on Tues, Wed, Thurs, Sundays and Bank Holiday Monday 12.30pm to 5.30pm. Garden opens 12pm.

Gardens and Guided Tours of the House ~ 12:30pm, 2pm and 3:15pm Adults £9.50 Concession £8.50 Children £5.00

Gardens Only ~

Tel: 01626 852179 www.ugbrooke.co.uk info@ugbrooke.co.uk

Adults £7.50 Children £4.00 Pre-booked groups are welcome from April 1st until September 27th by arrangement only.

®

®

Presses Pasteurisers Barrels & Bottles Orchard Care And much more Tel: 01404 890093 www.vigopresses.co.uk 28

Country Gardener

Woodland garden a bold new attraction at Powderham Castle A warm welcome awaits visitors to the family home of the Earl & Countess of Devon. Entertaining guided tours bring the history to life while delicious cream teas in the newly refurbished Courtyard Cafe tingle the tastebuds. In celebration of the Year of the English Garden visitors can now enjoy the fabulous American Woodland Garden until Thursday 1st September. Created by the 3rd Viscount, this secluded garden is a haven of peace and tranquillity with its exotic trees and beautiful castellated summerhouse. Open until Monday 31st October; Sun to Fri 11am to 4.30pm.

There’s a ‘2 for 1’ offer for National Trust and English Heritage members, assuming both are members. New gardens only admission available. Please visit website for details. www.powderham.co.uk

July will see Cadhay at its best Everything is running a little late this year at the popular Cadhay House and Gardens in Ottery St Mary ,Devon but this will pay dividends in July as the roses will be at their best complemented by the annuals and perennials which should be out. The medieval stew ponds will also be looking good as the hostas and flag irises are flourishing, and the ponds recover from the removal of silt which took place 18 months ago. The estate had to replace the water lilies but the new ones are beginning to come into their own.

Cadhay House and Gardens are open every Friday, between 2pm and 5pm, until Friday 30th September. For more information call 01404 813511 or www.cadhay.org.uk

Axe Vale festival – its almost time It is nearly time for the Axe Vale Festival! Bookings are coming in thick and fast with the return of firm favourites as well as new exhibitors keen to showcase their wares.

The main arena is host to an exciting programme of events guaranteed to thrill and entertain – this year with Adrenaline Tour and Rockwood Dogs booked ready to ‘wow’ the crowds.

There will be lots more to cheer throughout the day in the arena as well as the bandstand.

The history of this family friendly festival is firmly rooted in gardening and crafts and enthusiasts will not be disappointed this year with lots of plants and the wonderful floral marquee to browse as well as the food hall, toys and hobbies, crafts, antiques and more!

Axe Vale Festival takes place on 25th and 26th June at The Showground, Trafalgar Way, Axminster. On show days tickets cost: adults £9, under 16’s £2, under 5’s free. In advance: adults: £7.50 children: £1.50. Tickets can be purchased online. Reduced rates for group bookings. Coach parties are welcome. Parking is free and there’s a free bus service from Axminster town centre and station. Tel: 01297 34517 www.axevalefestival.org.uk

Magnificently restored Ugbrooke House is a hidden treasure Listed in the Domesday Book, Ugbrooke is a hidden treasure set in a romantic Devon combe. The house has a magnificently restored interior and guides will recount tales of espionage, intrigue and a secret treaty, all played out within the Clifford Ancestry. The house was remodelled

           



  

              

*Pick-Your-Own Fruit Farm open now! *Sweet Pea Fortnight 9th - 24th July *Summer Fair Thursday 28th July *Monmouth Rebellion Re-enactment 27th & 28th August *Autumn Splendour Flower Festival 16th - 18th September

* Tearoom * Gift Shop * Plants * Pottery * Disabled Access * Free Parking * 4m SE Chard TA20 4LU www.fordeabbey.co.uk 01460 221290 www.countrygardener.co.uk

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Created by renowned British sculptor Simon Gudgeon, Sculpture by the Lakes is an inspirational oasis for art lovers and art collectors. Nestled in 26 acres of Dorset’s finest countryside, it is home to an impressive and iconic range of outdoor sculpture placed in the beautiful landscape and gardens. There is also an art gallery with a selection of work by international artists.

Whether you are looking for a piece of art to complement your home or garden, or you would just like to enjoy the peace and tranquility of this unique place, Sculpture by the Lakes is the perfect place to relax. If you really want to spoil yourself rent one of our exclusive pavilions, you can even rent an island for a day!

Hartland Abbey & Gardens Location for BBC 'The Night Manager’ and ‘Sense and Sensibility’

Visit this fascinating historic family home with its stunning interiors and collections, beautiful gardens and walks to the beach. New exhibitions and outdoor theatre starting very soon. * Dogs welcome * Holiday Cottages * * Light lunches & cream teas *

House, Gardens and Tea Rooms open Sundays to Thursdays until 2nd October 11.30 - 5pm (House 2 - last adm. 4.30)

For all information and outdoor theatre events see www.hartlandabbey.com (Only 1 mile to Hartland Quay) Hartland, Nr. Bideford EX39 6DT 01237441496/234 n ay t pe id ep O y Fr h S t er 30 ev til un

HOUSE, GARDENS & TEAROOM Open every Friday 2pm - 5.30pm until 30th September Also August Bank Holiday weekend Saturday, Sunday & Monday

HOUSE & GARDENS: adults £7, children £3 (last guided tour 4pm) GARDENS: adult £3, child £1,

season ticket £10pp Member of Historic Houses Association

CADHAY, OTTERY ST. MARY, DEVON, EX11 1QT 01404 813511 www.cadhay.org.uk 30

Country Gardener

Pallington Lakes Dorchester Dorset DT2 8QU

AT GRE ILY 25th & 26th June FAM OUT! AXMINSTER DAY www.axevalefestival.org.uk Charity No. 1130829

Trade stands - hobbies - art - live music - vintage, retro & antiques...

Open 11.00 - 5.00 Entry £10.00 No dogs or children under 14 Arena events - floral marquee - crafts - food hall - children’s activities

07720 637808 sbtl@me.com www.sculpturebythelakes.co.uk

by Robert Adam whilst the renowned landscape artist Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown designed the beautiful parkland and gardens; enjoy a leisurely walk around these stunning grounds in this, his Tercentenary year. Ugbrooke is the only ‘Capability’ Brown landscape in Devon open to the public.

You can also enjoy a light lunch or homemade cream tea in the Orangery Tea room.

Ugbrooke House & Gardens, Just off A380 Nr. Chudleigh, Devon TQ13 0AD. Tel: 01626 852179 info@ugbrooke.co.uk www.ugbrooke.co.uk

Making the most of your summer bounty Have you ever been to your farm shop or local farmers market and wondered how they preserve their lovely produce?

Well why not give it a go yourself, with the Vigo Presses Pasteuriser. Pasteurising makes a world of difference to the length of time you can store produce. Fresh apple juice will keep in the fridge for two to three days before it begins to ferment, but if pasteurised can be stored for anything up to two years! Preserving is simply sterilising food in special glass containers without using chemicals. Using the pasteuriser, the even heat generated will kill any germs whilst creating a vacuum that cleverly seals your jars and prevents re-contamination. You can also use it for mulling wine and cider, yogurt making and even as a tea urn for large functions! The only limit is your imagination. You can make cordials, juices and jellies: Just add the Juice Extractor Top to extract juice from currants, berries, stoned fruits and hard fruits! www.vigopresses.co.uk. Vigo Presses Ltd,

Unit 4 Flightway, Dunkeswell, Honiton. Devon. EX14 4RD. Tel:01404 890093. sales@vigopresses.co.uk Opening hours: 9am until 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Forde Abbey to stage autumn flower festival Forde Abbey is introducing several new events to its calendar this year including an autumn flower festival. Over the August Bank Holiday weekend, the Taunton Garrison will re-enact scenes from the Monmouth Rebellion on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th August.

You can join the Taunton Garrison as they prepare themselves for battle with weaponry demonstrations, drill displays and musket firing and meet the redcoat soldiers who fought against the rebel uprising of 1685 in Somerset and experience, first hand, the living conditions of a seventeenth-century foot soldier.

Another date for your diary is Forde Abbey’s first flower festival, Autumn Splendour, takes place from Friday 16th to Sunday 18th September, when over 80 arrangements will adorn the rooms of the house for this weekend celebration of all things autumnal in the garden. Go and marvel at the skill and imagination involved in creating different themes to suit all areas of the house including the chapel. The family living rooms will also be open for this event, giving visitors an extra bonus.

Forde Abbey, Chard, Somerset TA20 4LU. Tel:01460 220231. www.fordeabbey.co.uk

www.countrygardener.co.uk

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The Garden Show at Surrey’s Loseley Park The Garden Show at Loseley Park returns for the fourth year in the showground right beside beautiful Loseley House and Gardens with a vast range of exhibitors in marquees and gardens to enhance your home and garden. There is something for everyone with special focus on art and design!

So take some time out and treat yourself and the family .The popular event runs on Friday, Saturday and Sunday July 22nd, 23rd and 24th from 10am to 5pm every day.

Admission Prices: Adult: £7, Senior Citizen: £5. Children 15 years & under: £3 Family Ticket: £18 two adults and up to four children www.thegardenshowonline.com

Bishops Palace stages first garden festival The Bishop’s Palace in Wells, Somerset, will be staging its first garden festival from Monday 20th June to Friday 24th June. It is an event that will put its 14-acre garden properly on the horticultural map, after more than ten years of restoration and embellishment . The festival is being opened

by TV personality and gardener Alan Titchmarsh, who was a parishioner of the present Bishop of Bath and Wells, Peter Hancock, when he was Bishop of Basingstoke. A range of plant, food and craft stalls will extend over the palace gardens. Alan will also be giving a talk, together with Bob Flowerdew, Troy Scott Smith of Sissinghurst and Alan Power of Stourhead.

The Bishop’s Palace Garden Festival, June 20th -24th , day tickets £9 plus booking fee, check the website for the price of

individual talks (bishopspalace.org.uk) Another date for the diary is ‘Muddy Monday’ - 'Herbs in the Garden' on 25th when you can join Community Gardener Amanda Clay in exploring the Herb Garden. Use all your senses to learn more about different types of herb and see what your favourite is.

Bishop’s Palace Market Place, Wells BA5 2PD. Tel O1749 988111

Sculpture by the Lakes Set in 26 acres of Dorset countryside lies Sculpture by the Lakes, an oasis for art lovers and collectors alike created by renowned sculptor Simon Gudgeon. Responsible for the gardens at Sculpture by the Lakes, Monique Gudgeon, Simon’s wife has created a modern garden using inspirations from many different sources both in this country and around the globe. Generous planting in every aspect means different areas of the garden are given specific shape and definition.

Simon’s vision was to create an environment for enthusiasts that blends nature’s beauty with inspiring works of art free from the constraints of enclosed spaces of a traditional gallery. The sculpture park has been carefully landscaped and curated to ensure each piece is positioned to enhance its aesthetic qualities as well as the visual surroundings.

Summer opening hours: 11am to 5pm Monday to Sunday.

Admission: £10. Sorry no children under 14 years and no dogs.

Sculpture by the Lakes ,Pallington Lakes, Dorchester DT2 8QU. Tel:07720 637808 www.sculpturebythelakes.co.uk

Summer Days Out at The Bishop’s Palace Join us this summer for: 14 acres of stunning, RHS Partner gardens FREE daily tours of the Palace & grounds Outdoor Theatre programme (Jun-Aug) The Taunton Garrison (23-24th July) Muddy Mondays and Family Fun Fridays during the school holidays Bowlore Medieval Weekend 27-29th August See our What’s On calendar for more information: www.bishopspalace.org.uk/events

T 01749 988 111 ext. 200 32

Country Gardener

www.bishopspalace.org.uk

How to solve pest and disease problems

organically

It’s the time of year when almost every vegetable patch is beset with some pest or disease problems. So what are your options to try and solve things organically?

Organic gardeners usually want to avoid using pesticides of any type, so they try to grow plants in ways that help prevent pests and diseases from gaining a foothold.

These techniques work in any garden—organic or not.

• Right plant, right place. Give plants the most ideal conditions possible, and they’ll grow healthy and strong—and better able to resist pest and disease attacks. Pay attention to requirements for sun exposure and spacing.

• Choose disease-resistant varieties.

• Space plants correctly. Adequate airflow between plants reduces many disease problems.

• Rotate crops. Changing crop locations year to year is a key tactic in foiling pest attacks. Just moving a crop a few feet makes it impossible for some insects to find their necessary food supply.

• Keep a clean garden. Gather and dispose of fallen leaves and fruit. Clip diseased leaves.

• Inspect crops daily. When you catch pest or disease problems early, they’re much easier to control.

But the chances are for most gardeners pests and disease will still be an issue to deal with during the long summer days.

There are a number of sensible organic solutions:

Simple, hands-on solutions

This is literally hands-on gardening. For example, hand-pick caterpillars off broccoli or cabbage and drop them into soapy water. Dislodge aphids with a blast of water from a garden hose or handheld sprayer. Pick up slugs at night but use gloves.

Companion planting

To deter whitefly from tomatoes grow basil and marigolds as companion planting. Thyme is known to work well in combination with basil beneath tomato crops. The roots of the marigold's control the bugs in the soil and the flower will protect your plants from bug infestation.

Attacking aphids

Aphids are common sap-sucking insects that can cause a lack of plant vigour.

It is possible to spray aphids off

plants with the simple application of a garden hose. While this method may harm younger, more fragile host plants, it can be quite effective at controlling small aphid populations on more robust and well-established plants.

The basic nature of mild household detergents makes them perfect for getting rid of mild to moderate aphid infestations.

Dilute a few tablespoons of dish soap in a small bucket of lukewarm water and use a sponge or spray bottle to apply the mixture to plants where aphids have taken hold. Upon contact, the soap will dissolve the waxy protective coating from aphids’ bodies, dehydrating and eventually killing the insects without harming the plant. Remember to also treat the undersides of leaves where aphid eggs and larvae may be hiding!

Put up barriers

Barriers such as plant collars, netting, surface materials or strips; traps, and simple hand removal, are often very good garden pest deterrents or removal methods.

Get soapy

Natural vegetable based soaps or detergents can easily be added to sprays in small amounts to make them stick to plants.

Many insects dislike and are harmed by soap. Make up a weak soapy solution with pure soap, grated then dissolved in warm water. Many people save their dishwashing water to use, but make sure it is eco-friendly.

Soapy water will control many little soft bugs, such as aphids and spider mites.

The slug problem

Slugs always take top honours as the most bothersome pest in home gardens. Handpicking may be slightly anti social as the best time to do it is after dark but it's very effective and economical. Opinion is divided on eggshell barriers - crushed eggshells sprinkled around plants. There’s some other barriers which might work.

Pistachio nut shells-are sharpish and salty, save your shells and put around your young plants. Leave the shells and in time they will rot down.

Sawdust is dense and unattractive to slugs and snails and they will avoid crossing it unless they are starving.

Another dislike of snails is sand, which they do not like to cross.

Put a band of fine sand about one cm high around the garden edge or base of plants.

Carrot fly

A simple and effective way to prevent carrot fly is just a simple foot high cardboard barrier round your carrots.

www.countrygardener.co.uk

33

GARDEN Visits

THE BEST GARDENS TO VISIT compiled by Vivienne Lewis

In this issue we’re highlighting gardens that will open for charity in July and have that bit extra to offer a visitor, with sculptures in the garden, a display of paintings or live music. So here are some in the areas we cover. We advise readers to check wherever possible before starting out, either personally if contact details have been released or if it’s an opening for the National Gardens Scheme go to the website at www.ngs.org.uk. Please note that if dogs are not mentioned in the garden’s entry here or in the main guidebook then they are not allowed in.

Gardens offering art or music CORYHILL, COMBE RALEIGH, HONITON, DEVON Listen to a variety of live music from Elgar to Ellington, from the Honiton Town Band, the Wyndham Singers and the Sheldon Singers, with duo Paula and Colin Mitchell, while you enjoy your own picnic in the evening sunshine and help raise funds for Hospiscare. Explore the lawns, shrubs, lake and unusual conifers at Coryhill.

Coryhill, Combe Raleigh, Honiton, Devon EX14 4TQ. Telephone: 01404 46452. Open for Devon Hospiscare: Saturday 2nd July, gates open 5.30pm. Admission: £7 in advance from Hospiscare on 01392 688020 or see www.hospiscare.co.uk Refreshments: hot drinks.

Wheelchair access.

Lower Abbotts Wootton Farm, Whitchurch Canonicum, Dorset Johnny and Clare Trenchard’s garden six miles from Bridport is a new opening for the NGS this year – Clare is a sculptor and the garden reflects her creative flair for form, shape and colour. A new open gravel garden contrasts with the main garden consisting of lawns, borders and garden rooms which make a perfect setting for sculptures. The naturally edged pond provides a tranquil moment of calm, but beware of being led down the garden path by the running hares!

Lower Abbotts Wootton Farm, Whitchurch Canonicum, Dorset DT6 6NL. Open for the NGS: Saturday 2nd July, Sunday 3rd July, 2pm-5pm. Admission: £4, children free. Home-made teas, plants for sale. Partial wheelchair access. Dogs allowed on short leads.

34

Barrington Downs, Aldsworth, Gloucestershire The home of Sir Jeremy and Lady Morse is a charming rural garden surrounded by farmland.

With generously filled, wide herbaceous borders and a vegetable and herb garden, Barrington Downs is at its best in high summer. Set intriguingly about the garden are sculptures

by William Pye and others.

Barrington Downs, Aldsworth, GL54 3PT, Gloucestershire.

Telephone: 01451 844382 Email: belindamorse@btinternet.com Open for the NGS: Sunday 17th July 2pm-6pm. Combined admission with 1 Drive Cottage £5, children free. Homemade teas. Plants for sale. Unsuitable for wheelchairs. Dogs allowed on short leads. Visitors also welcome by arrangement May to September.

Lower Spitchwick Garden, Poundgate, Devon

Pauline Lee’s garden is in the beautiful valley alongside the River Dart with an atmospheric woodland garden imaginatively planted in a natural setting, a jungle area with bamboo teahouse, meandering grass pathways, lawns, borders with stream, potager and vegetable garden. The artist/ designer’s gallery garden displays plant-inspired sculpture placed in and amongst plantings to create a ‘symphony’ of forms, colour and texture. Visitors can buy or commission directly from the artist.

Lower Spitchwick Garden, Poundgate, Devon TQ13 7NU. Telephone: 01364 631593 Email: paulineleeceramics@ hotmail.com Open for the NGS: Saturday 18th June, Sunday 19th June, Saturday 9th July, Sunday 10th July, Saturday 13th August, Sunday 14th August, 1pm-5pm. Admission: £3.50, children free. Light refreshments, plants for sale. Dogs allowed on short leads. Visitors also welcome by arrangement May to September.

Country Gardener

North Cottage, Tisbury, Wiltshire A cottage garden and smallholding set in a quiet vale in a beautiful part of south Wiltshire 12 miles from Salisbury, which although small, has room for all to explore the divided areas, each different in style and feel, with an orchard, wild flowers and coppice wood. This year there’s an exhibition of metal sculpture made from recycled tools by Amy Lancaster. See the ceramics and handicrafts made by Jacqueline and Robert Baker, the garden owners, many made from their own sheep’s wool.

North Cottage, Tisbury, Wiltshire SP3 6RZ Telephone: 01747 870019 Email: robert.baker@pearceseeds.co.uk Last opening for the NGS this season: Sunday 3rd July, 11.30am-5pm. Admission: £3, children free. Light refreshments, home-made light lunches and teas.

Plants for sale. Dogs allowed. Visitors also welcome by arrangement June and July for groups of ten+, and this is a venue offering accommodation.

HOLLY HOUSE, CHELWOOD GATE, HAYWARDS HEATH, SUSSEX There’s an exhibition of paintings and cards by the owner Mrs Deirdre Birchell at this garden seven miles from Haywards Heath, an acre with views and cameos of plants and trees round every corner with many different areas giving constant interest. There’s a fish pond and a wildlife pond beside a grassy area with many shrubs and flower beds.

Among the trees and winding paths there is a cottage garden which is a profusion of colour and peace.

Holly House, Chelwood Gate, Haywards Heath, Sussex RH17 7LF Telephone: 01825 740484 Email: db@hollyhousebnb.demon. co.uk Next openings for the NGS: Saturday 9th July, Sunday 10th July, Saturday 20th August, Sunday 21st August, 2pm5pm. Admission: £3.50, children free. Home-made teas. Garden accessible by wheelchair in good weather, but it is not easy. Dogs allowed on short leads. Visitors also welcome by arrangement May to September. This is a venue offering accommodation. www.hollyhousebnb.demon.co.uk

West Silchester Hall, Silchester, Hampshire The two-acre garden owned by the artist Mrs Jenny Jowett in a village near a Roman site has fascinating colour combinations with many spectacular herbaceous borders filled with rare and unusual plants flowering over a long period, many pots filled with half hardies, a wild garden surrounding a natural pond, banks of rhododendron, and a kitchen garden with lovely views across a field of grazing cattle. A large studio exhibits Jenny Jowett’s botanical, landscape and portrait paintings, cards and prints.

West Silchester Hall, Silchester, Hampshire RG7 2LX. Telephone: 01189 700278 Next openings for the NGS: Sunday 3rd July, Sunday 7th August, 2pm5.30pm. Admission: £4, children free. Home-made teas, plants for sale. Wheelchair access to large part of the garden, gravel drive. Dogs allowed on short leads. Visitors also welcome by arrangement May to September for groups of 10+. www.jennyjowett.com

SUT T ON HOSEY MANOR, LONG SUT T ON, SOMERSET

Music by the Young Musicians Symphony Orchestra accompanies you as you wander through the threeacre gardens of Sutton Hosey Manor, two of which are walled. A lily canal through pleached limes leads to an amelanchier walk past duck pond, rose and juniper walk from the Italian Terrace, to the judas tree avenue and the ptelea walk. There’s an ornamental potager and a drive-side shrubbery.

Sutton Hosey Manor, Somerset TA10 9NA. Telephone: 0207 3906700 Email: rbramble@bdbltd.co.uk Open for the NGS: Sunday 24th July, 2.30pm-6pm. Admission: £4, child £2. Home-made teas, plants for sale. Visitors also welcome by arrangement with owner Roger Bramble in August and September.

www.countrygardener.co.uk

35

GARDEN Visits

MARCHAMLEY HOUSE GARDEN, MARCHAMLEY, HODNET, SHROP SHIRE

There’s an exhibition and sale of pictures by botanical artist Mary Morton at this two-acre garden six miles from Market Drayton, owned by Mr and Mrs A Davies, with stunning views of the Shropshire countryside. Enjoy walking round the mixed perennial borders, the lily pond and herb garden, fruit trees and vegetable garden. A sloping lawn leads to mature trees, ponds and stumpery and beyond is a meadow walk.

Marchamley House Garden, Marchamley, Hodnet, Shropshire SY4 5LE. Open for the NGS: Sunday 3rd July, 12.30pm-5pm.

Admission: £4, children free. Home-made teas, plants for sale. Dogs allowed on short leads.

Sculpture by the Lakes, Pallington, Dorchester, Dorset Described as a modern arcadia, this modern garden follows the traditions of the landscape movement, but for the 21st century. Where sculpture has been placed, the planting palette has been kept simple, but dramatic, so that the work remains the star. Home to Monique and her husband the sculptor Simon Gudgeon the sculpture park features more than 30 of his works including Isis, which is also in London’s Hyde Park, and a dedicated gallery where some of his smaller pieces can be seen and purchased.

Sculpture by the Lakes, Pallington Lakes, Pallington, Dorchester, Dorset DT2 8QU. Next opening for the NGS: Wednesday 6th July, 11am-5pm. Admission £7.50.

Teas. Disabled access limited though possible to go round paths on mobility scooter or electric wheelchair if care taken. For other opening times and information, please Telephone: 07720 637808, Email: sbtl@me.com or visit www.sculpturebythelakes.co.uk

Hiraeth, Droitwich, Worcestershire Sue and John Fletcher’s garden just a mile from Droitwich has a wonderful mix of features with unusual plants including herbaceous, hostas, ferns, a 300 year-old olive tree, arches, pool, waterfall, a stile that’s 200 years old, oak sculptures, metal animals, birds and even giraffes and an elephant.

Hiraeth, 30 Showell Road, Droitwich, Worcestershire WR9 8UY Telephone: 07752 717243/01905 778390 Email: jfletcher@inductotherm. co.uk Next openings for the NGS: Sunday 19th June, Sunday 24th July, 2pm-5.30pm. Admission: £3, children free. Home-made teas, plants for sale. Partial wheelchair access. Visitors also welcome by arrangement June to August for groups of 10-30.

CAMERS, OLD SODBURY, SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE Camers is an Elizabethan farmhouse (not open) set on a west-sloping site of four acres of constantly developing garden and woodland with spectacular views over the Severn Vale. There is an extensive collection of statuary, many of the statues placed to accentuate the vistas which abound in the garden owned by Mr and Mrs A G Denman. It’s full of surprises, with formal and informal areas planted with a wide range of species to provide year-round interest, a parterre, topiary, Japanese garden, bog and prairie areas, waterfalls, white and hot gardens, and woodland walks.

Camers, Old Sodbury, South Glos BS37 6RG Telephone: 01454 322430.

Email: dorothydenman@camers.org Open for the NGS: Sunday 31st July, 2pm-5pm. Admission: £5 children free. Home-made teas, plants for sale. Dogs allowed on short leads. Also open by arrangement February – September for groups of 20+ (not for NGS). www.camers.org

36

Country Gardener

New open gardens The Folly, Charlton, Chichester, West Sussex Joan Burnett and David Ward’s colourful cottage garden surrounds a 16th century house (not open), in the pretty downland village of Charlton close to Levin Down Nature Reserve and seven miles north of Chichester. There are well stocked herbaceous borders by the lawns, a variety of perennials, grasses, annuals and shrubs, an old well and quaint paths, busy bees and chickens.

The Folly, Charlton, Chichester, West Sussex PO18 0HU. Telephone: 07711 080851. Email: jkburnett@hotmail.co.uk Open for the NGS: Sunday 3rd July, Sunday 14th August, 2pm-5.30pm. Admission: £4, children free. Home-made teas, plants for sale. Visitors also welcome by arrangement June to September for groups of 10-30, for afternoon or evening visits.

Partial wheelchair access. Steps from patio to lawn. A venue that offers accommodation. www.thefollycharlton.com

Awkward Hill Cottage, Bibury, Gloucestershire Journalist Victoria Summerley, author of Secret Gardens of the Cotswolds and Great Gardens of London, is opening her garden for the NGS for the first time. The garden is a work in progress; it was a second home for 40 years, but since 2012 has been redesigned to reflect the local landscape and encourage wildlife. Planting is both formal and informal for year round interest, with a pond, waterfall, a wonderful view over the neighbouring meadow and woodland, two sunny terraces and plenty of places to sit and relax.

Awkward Hill Cottage, Bibury, Gloucestershire GL7 5NH. Telephone: 01285 740289. Email: v.summerley@hotmail.com Open for the NGS: Sunday 3rd July, 2pm-6pm. Admission; £3, children free. Home-made teas. Evening opening: Sunday 28 August 6pm-8.30pm. Admission: £4.50, children free.

Wine. Dogs allowed on short leads. Visitors also welcome by arrangement June to October. Parking limited - advice is to park in the village. www.awkwardhill.co.uk

Topsham Gardens, Topsham near Exeter, Devon Stroll through Topsham visiting three unique, beautiful gardens:19 Victoria Road, a small tropical style walled garden with a wide variety of plants including bamboo, tree ferns, bananas, palms and yuccas, ponds and a conservatory with exotic plants; Wixels riverside garden, an artist’s creation with sculptures, large greenhouse and semi-tropical plants to the long views up and down the River Exe; Anchor House, surrounded on three sides by the river, with a garden designed and sympathetically planted, with views down the estuary towards Exmouth.

Topsham Gardens, Topsham near Exeter, Devon EX3 0EU. Open for the NGS: Friday 15th July, Sunday 17th July, 11am-5pm. Combined admission: £5, children free. Home-made teas at Wixels. Limited wheelchair access at 19 Victoria Road and not suitable for wheelchairs at Wixels. Dogs allowed on short leads.

PARK CO T TAGE, WRINGT ON, BRIST OL Take a colourful journey through one and a quarter acres in an established, herbaceous perennial garden owned by Mr and Mrs J Shepherd.

The potager, jungle, rainbow border, white garden and 90ft double herbaceous borders are some of the compartments in this ‘Alice in Wonderland’ garden divided by high hedges. A large Victorianstyle greenhouse displays tender plants. There’s plenty of seating and views of the surrounding countryside.

Park Cottage, Wrington Hill, Wrington, Bristol BS40 5PL. Open for the NGS: Wednesday 13th July, Saturday 23rd July, 11am-5pm. Admission: £4, children free. Home-made teas provided by Wrington Pop-Up Vintage Cafe, proceeds to Weston Hospicecare. Mostly good wheelchair access, some narrow bark chip paths. Narrow flagstone bridge with steps.

www.countrygardener.co.uk

37

TIME Off

GARDEN EVENTS AROUND DEVON compiled by Kate Lewis

Here’s a selection of gardening events to look out for during the next few weeks throughout Devon. Send us details of your event at least ten weeks before publication and we will publicise it free of charge. Make sure you let us know where the event is being held, the date and include a contact telephone number.

We are keen to support garden club events and we will be glad to publicise talks and shows held during the year where clubs want to attract a wider audience, but we do not have space for club outings or parties. We suggest that garden clubs send us their diary for the year for events to be included in the relevant issue of the magazine. Please send to Country Gardener Magazines, Mount House, Halse, Taunton TA4 3AD or by email to timeoff@countrygardener.co.uk and copy to vivienne@countrygardener.co.uk We take great care to ensure that details are correct at the time of going to press but we advise readers to check wherever possible before starting out on a journey as circumstances can force last minute changes. All NGS open gardens can be found on www.ngs.org.uk or in the local NGS booklet available at many outlets.

JULY DIARY 2nd

Honiton Coryhill, Combe Raleigh, 01392 688020

A Musical Evening Enjoy a fabulous variety of music by the lake while eating a picnic and enjoying the evening sunshine. Explore the lawns, shrubs and rare trees and help raise money for Hospiscare.

5.30pm – 9pm. Tickets £7.50 in advance, £10 on the gate 2nd

Tiverton NT Knightshayes Court, 01884 257381

National Meadow Day Discover the traditional method of scything in celebration of National Meadow Day. Watch demonstrations from a scything expert and have a go yourself.

10am – 4pm 3rd

38

Newton Abbot Stover Country Park, 01626 821966 Guided Walk - Butterflies and Dragonflies

Find out more about the huge diversity of insects, including spectacular butterflies and dragonflies, that make Stover their home on this two-hour guided walk.

12pm – 2pm 5th

Torrington RHS Rosemoor, 01805 626800

Planting Combinations for your Borders The perfect course if you are confused by the choice of plants available at the garden centre. This garden walk will point you in the right direction by using examples of planting combinations in the borders at Rosemoor.

11am to 12.30pm. RHS Members £13, Non-RHS Members £23 8-12th Shaldon St Peter’s church Flower festival – ‘Childhood memories’ The flower festival running for four days staged by St Peter’s and ‘Flowers by Lesley’ of Teignmouth, features nostalgic childhood memories in the

Country Gardener

displays. Proceeds to replacement of the church’s sound system.

Concludes with Songs of Praise service.

10.30am- 6pm daily except Sunday 11.30am-4pm followed

by Songs of Praise 9th

Ottery St Mary

Ottery St Mary Gardening Club annual summer show The Institute Yonder St. Tradiitonal classes galore in this popular high summer show.

01404 813643 14th Broadclyst Killerton, 01392 881345

Theatre in the Garden: The Importance of Being Earnest Join Heartbreak Theatre Company for a hilarious adaptation of

inspiring natural treasures ready to be transformed into tropical boats, exotic creates and more.

11.30am – 11.45. £12

24th Wimborne St Giles Shaftesbury Estate

AUGUST DIARY 7th Paws in the Park in aid of the Worldwide Veterinary Service (WVS) Fun for all the family… including the dog! Enjoy food demonstrations, a dog show, falconry display, a sponsored walking event and a ‘valuation surgery’ by John Benjamin, jewellery expert from the BBC’s Antiques Roadshow.

For more information go to www.wvs.org.uk 26th Kingswear NT Coleton Fishacre, 01803 752466

Laundry Day Head to the laundry to experience life as a 1930s laundry maid. Have a go at washing linen from the period using a washing dolly, washboard and mangle, under the supervision of expert volunteers.

11am – 3pm 28

th

Yelverton NT Buckland Abbey, Garden and Estate, 01822 853607 Early-bird Summertime Naturemake Inspired by the adventures of former resident, Sir Francis Drake, the team at Buckland Abbey have found many beautiful and

Teignmouth Gardening Club ‘STRAWBERRIES & GARDEN FRUITS’ – PENELOPE TOWNSEND Details on 01626 774287 9th Ottery St Mary Gardening Club SUMMER SHOW Details on 01404 813643 10th High Garden, Chiverstone Lane, Kenton OPEN GARDEN IN AID OF HOSPISCARE 10th Breach Shute Road, Kilmington, Axminster OPEN GARDEN IN AID OF HOSPISCARE 14th West Hill Garden Club ‘HERBS AND THEIR USES’ – NEIL LOVESEY Details on 01404 811263 16th The Cotley Inn, Wambrook, nr Chard SCARECROW TEA PARTY 16th/17th RHS Rosemoor, Great Torrington CARNIVEROUS PLANTS EXHIBITION Details on 01805 626800 18th Meavy Garden Society ‘POPULAR SHRUBS & HOW TO PRUNE THEM’ - TIM ELLIS FROM ELLIS NURSERIES Details on 01822 852672 19th Bickleigh, Roborough & District Garden Society ‘MEDICINES FROM THE GARDEN’ – DR FRANCES HOWARD Details on 01822 855413 23rd Yealm Gardens Society ANNUAL FLOWER & PRODUCE SHOW Details on 01752 872471 23rd/24th RHS Rosemoor, Great Torrington VINTAGE WEEKEND Details on 01805 626800 23rd/24th Colaton Raleigh OPEN GARDENS Details on 01395 567064 24th ‘Libertas’, Buckland tout Saints, Kingsbridge OPEN GARDEN In aid of St Peter’s Church Details on 01548 853653 30th Village Hall, Membury MEMBURY FLOWER SHOW 2pm 30th The Tithe Barn, Cotley, TA20 3EP THE 102nd WAMBROOK FLOWER SHOW 2.30pm 7th

Oscar Wilde’s masterpiece. Bring picnics and rugs to enjoy the perfect relaxed summer evening.

7.30pm – 10pm. Adult on the day £12.50, adult in advance £15, child on the day £9, child in advance £7

Porlock Porlock Recreation Ground, 01643 863150

Porlock Country Fair All the fun of the country fair in the beautiful setting of Porlock.

Enjoy arena attractions, a range of craft and trade stalls, children’s races, classic cars and much more.

Adult £3, child free 10th Cullompton Thornhayes Nursery, 01884 266746

Summer Pruning of Fruit Trees This ever-popular afternoon course explore how to grow fruit trees such as cordons, fans and bush in compact forms.

1.30pm - 4pm. £24, includes refreshments on arrival

CLUBS AND O THER ORGANISAT IONS 30th June-4th July Sidmouth SIDMOUTH SECLUDED GARDENS OPEN GARDENS – 6 to 8 each day www.sidmouthinbloom.org 3rd Morwenstow Community Centre OPEN GARDENS AND CREAM TEA Details 01288331682/07814978110 7th Plympton Gardeners Association ‘PLANT HERITAGE’ – MIKE SQUIRES

www.countrygardener.co.uk

39

LOCAL Directory

GARDEN SERVICES AROUND DEVON Wanted

Trees & Shrubs

Garden Fencing

Exmoor Baskets and Hurdles Makers of good quality Willow hurdles and garden items.

Call: 01398 323391 Mob: 07980 759099

SUMMER ORCHID FESTIVAL Help us celebrate 30 years in Newton Abbot with visiting exhibitors, lots for sale, special displays, talks, guided tours, hardy orchids too.

Dulford Nurseries

North Devon Hospice

Tree and shrub specialist – hundreds of varieties of native and ornamental trees, shrubs and hedging.

Tel: 01884 266361 www.dulford-nurseries.co.uk

Looking for local gardens who would open to the public in support of North Devon Hospice in 2016/17.

Emma Lowe: 01271 347213 emmalowe@northdevonhospice.org.uk

16 TH & 1 TH JULY 7 Free Entry !

Open daily 10am –4pm

Serving delicious snacks, light lunches and cream teas.

ForchesCross, Newton Abbot, Devon, TQ12 6PZ @burnhamorchids 01626 352233 • www.orchids.uk.com

Reach a passionate and affluent audience of gardening enthusiasts Over 120,000 copies distributed every month If you would like to advertise your business or service in our Devon magazine, please contact cath.pettyfer@countrygardener.co.uk

Tel: 01837 82660

TREE STUMPS

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THE STUMPMAN We will convert your tree stumps into woodchips with the minimum of fuss/disturbance throughout Devon & Cornwall

Tel: 01822 833032 or 07968 502796

www.thestumpman.co.uk

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Remote operation at the touch of a button • Enjoy the outdoors whatever the weather.

• Auto sun sensors available.

• Large range of fabrics, styles and colours.

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Part of the Rolux UK Group

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Country Gardener

EDGING YOUR WAY

to a tidy garden

Grenville Sheringham says that when it comes to getting the garden to suddenly look better during the long days of summer the answer is all in the edges Sometimes in the summer, when everything in the garden needs attention at once, it is difficult to know where to start.

Mow the lawn? Weed the beds and borders? Trim the hedge?

Well, many years ago I discovered the secret of making a garden look tidy quickly and efficiently – it’s all in the edges.

It’s all too easy to let the edge of the lawn become indistinct and a mixture of weeds and grass establishes itself at the front of the border or in the flowerbeds.

But a neat, clean weed-free edge leads the eye away from all those overgrown shrubs and tired foliage.

Just two tools are essential to achieve this transformation – edging shears and hoe – and they both need looking after properly if they are going to do their job efficiently. Edging shears must be kept sharp. If they are sharp, they should slice through grass and weeds easily and feel as if you are using a pair of scissors. If you need to pull at the grass with the shears, they are in serious need of sharpening. I do mine after every few uses, but then as a professional gardener I am using them every day throughout the summer, so they need to be sharp. I use an ordinary sharpening stone and just give each blade a few quick strokes. It is surprising how much difference that makes.

Before cutting the edge, you need to make sure it is clear of earth and weeds. I do this by hoeing a strip along the edge

A simple thing like properly edging your lawn will make a huge impact on the way the garden looks

of the bed or border, firmly pushing through any roots of perennial weeds or grass, and loosening the soil. Don’t be distracted by individual weeds, and don’t be tempted to bend down and pick anything up at this stage. The secret is to focus on the job in hand and not be distracted, or you will soon find yourself doing another job ‘just while you are there’.

Don’t waste time on perennial weeds like dandelions and docks. Give them a sharp jab with the hoe just below the soil surface. Any garden plants that have spread themselves near or over the edge of the bed should be cut back with edging shears or secateurs (except of course if they are in flower and looking appealing!).

I also keep my hoe sharpened, though obviously it is a blunt tool and any edge will quickly be taken off by hoeing through soil, but I do find it makes a huge difference just to use the sharpening stone every so often.

Now comes the clever bit. Use the hoe to pull any chopped weeds or other rubbish into small piles, and pick them up to go on the compost heap. Now turn the hoe sideways and drag it along the edge of the bed with short sharp movements, flicking up the earth to expose a neat lawn edge.

The aim is to create a regular slope of something like a 45degrees angle between the bed and the lawn.

This technique takes a lot of practice to perfect, but any attempt will invariably lead to some level of success.

I learnt this technique working as a gardener at Kew gardens forty-odd years ago, and I’m still working on it!

Working in a wide range of private gardens, I often need to create a neat effect in just a few hours, ready for a special visit or event, or just for the owners to enjoy their garden at the weekend.

This technique always works, as long as you remember the golden rule is not to get distracted by other tasks.

If the edges are tidy, the eye is led away from the docks and nettles lurking at the back of the border.

Believe me, it works!

www.countrygardener.co.uk

41

NEWS

$ *$ m , $( & $&

The latest from businesses across Devon

Summer paella from Riverford Organic Farmers We’re delighted to be able to share with you a summer recipe from organic fruit and vegetable box supplies Riverford Organic Farmers.

Summer vegetable paella with saffron & lemon serves 2 A vegetarian adaptation of the traditional Spanish dish, paella rice is readily available but use short-grain brown or Arborio if you can’t find it. Saffron threads give the dish its unique flavour. sunflower or light olive oil, for frying 1 onion, finely diced 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped, grated or crushed 1 red pepper, deseeded and cut into 5mm-thick slices 1 yellow pepper, deseeded and cut into 5mm-thick slices 200g paella rice – calasparra paella rice if you can get it 100g mushrooms, finely sliced 3 tomatoes, diced 1/4 tsp smoked paprika 1/4 tsp paprika 2 pinches of saffron threads 1 litre of good veg stock 100g green beans or sugar snaps, or a mixture of both (if using beans, top, tail and chop into thirds) good handful of parsley, chopped 1 lemon, cut into wedges salt and pepper Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a heavy-bottomed paella pan or large frying pan or flameproof casserole. Add the onion and fry gently on a low heat for 10 minutes, stirring now and then. Add the garlic and peppers to the onion and stir for 2 minutes. Add the rice, mushrooms, tomatoes, both types of paprika and saffron. Pour in three quarters of the stock and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on the liquid and top up with a little more stock or water as needed (you might not need it all). The paella shouldn’t be sloppy at the end so add liquid sparingly during the last 10 minutes. While the paella is cooking, boil the green beans for 3 minutes, then refresh them in a bowl of very cold water. If you are using sugar snaps, you can simply throw them in raw towards the end of cooking (see below). After 30 minutes of cooking, check the rice is tender and cook a little longer if needed. If there is any excess liquid, turn up the heat and stir to boil it off. Then cook very gently without stirring, to create a crust on the bottom (it’s not very easy to achieve without a proper paella pan, though). Stir in the beans and parsley. Turn off the heat and leave to stand for 2 minutes, then check the seasoning and serve with wedges of lemon. www.riverford.co.uk/recipes 42

P lantworld celebrates 25years of quality plants

Plantworld, in Milton on Stour just north of Gillingham, popular with customers as suppliers of quality plants is celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Since opening in a field adjacent to Kendall’s Cottage in the summer of 1991 as a small nursery growing bedding plants for a local garden centre and with a small amount of farm gate sales, Plantworld has grown into a large horticultural retail business.

Plantworld continues to provide the best range of quality plants in the local area. Plants and gardening are the core business and help with choosing the right plant and advice with planting are always available and if a plant is not in stock they will always try to find it from one of their many suppliers.

The good news for new and existing customers is that plans are in place to make improvements to the site including more car parking, opening of the new entrance and a coffee shop which it is hoped will make a visit even more enjoyable.

Plantworld can be found on the B3092 at Milton on Stour, and is open seven days a week Call: 01747 824015.

TAKING CARE IN THE GARDEN The chances are you are really enjoying your garden at this time of the year, but are you remembering to look after your joints and muscles? Last month Torbay Chiropractic Clinic wrote about the importance of warming up before gardening and gave you some top tips on preventing aches and pains whilst in the garden. This month they are keen to help those who may already have back, hip or knee problems.

Firstly, have you thought about investing in raised beds? These will help take the pressure off your back, as you’ll not need to bend so much.

Also, it is worth thinking about the tools you are using.

Lightweight, long handled spades prevent you from hunching and forks and hoes with a push/pull action can also help prevent excess strain on your back.

These are just some of the things you could do in your garden to manage existing pain and avoid further pressure on your joints. If however you do find yourself with niggley pains, chiropractic can help. A safe and drug free treatment, chiropractic care has been shown to be very effective in helping a wide variety of acute and chronic pain conditions..

Of course prevention is better then treatment, and seeing a chiropractor now could be the key to enjoying your garden all summer long.

For more information on how chiropractic can help you stay active take a look at Torbay Chiropractic Clinic’s blog at www.torbaychiropractic.co.uk/ blog or call 01803 329799.

Country Gardener

BlackBury Honey Farm Honey shop Garden tea room Wildflower meadow Orchard and gardens Come and be part of this special place Open Thurs - Sun 10 - 5 Near Blackbury Camp

Lots of Summer Colour for Instant Impact Large Selection of Perennials Selection of Trees, Shrubs, Fruit, Roses, Perennials, Alpines, Seeds & more...

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www.covegardennursery.co.uk Tel: 01398 331946 Find us on the A396, Cove, Tiverton, EX16 7RU

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Honiton

Agricultural Show Thursday 4th August 2016

Acts Booked So Far...

Jamie Squibb Freestyle FMX Show, The Sheep Show, Twistopher Punch & Judy, Grand Parade, Livestock, Horses, Vintage Tractors, Poultry & Dog Shows, Over 400 Trade Stands.

Please apply for Trade, Horse and Livestock Schedules Secretary: Marcelle Connor, Bank House, 66a High Street, Honiton, Devon, EX14 1PS info@honitonshow.co.uk www.honitonshow.co.uk

Toby Buckland’s Plant Centre

Quality Plants, Expert Advice, Events, Gifts Hanging Baskets, Design Service, Courses

Powderham Castle Kenton Open EX6 8JQ A379 near Exeter

@tobybuckland

7 days a week 01626 891133

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www.countrygardener.co.uk

43

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Go to Cottages.com ref nos W43950 and W44036.

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01769 540366 www.snapdown.co.uk Bosworlas near Sennen/St Just, Cornwall. Cosy Cottage, rural views, Sleeps 2-4 www.bosworlas.co.uk 01736 788709

Cornwall, near St Just. Chalet, sleeps 4, heated indoor pool, open all year – near gardens/coast, golfing nearby. Prices from £260 pw. 01736 788718

Delightful cosy Shepherds Hut for 2 on Cotswold Farm Pretty villages, Bustling market towns excellent walking N.T. and gardens Tel: 01242 604189 www.pinnockwoodfarm.co.uk

Lanlivery near Eden and other Cornish Gardens lovely woodland lodge 2/4 people www.poppylodgecornwall.co.uk 01726 430489 Devon. Tamar Valley. Pretty cottage sleeps 2-4. Wood burner, garden, small dog welcome. 02073 736944/07940 363233 www.northwardshippon.co.uk Ryde Isle Of Wight, two cottages. Sleeps 2/4, close sandy beaches. Tel: 02380 849565 rydecottage@talktalk.net Cornwall. Village location between Truro and Falmouth. Fully equipped renovated cottage. Peaceful garden.

Off road parking. Ideal for 2 adults. No children/animals. Good public transport.

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Accommodation Abroad Gloucestershire, Cosy annexe for two

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Peace, Privacy, and Stunning Views! 4* Delightful cosy cabin Beautifully romantic cottage for two In sunny SW France just 30 mins from Bergerac airport. www.maison-bb.com

Sidmouth, Devon Fully equipped self catering house.

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Carmarthen Bay South Wales Seafront chalet situated on estuary.

Sleeps up to 6. Seaview. Well Behaved Dogs Welcome. For brochure Tel: 01269 862191 44

Accommodation: Holiday Cottages Devon, Culm Valley. Well equipped rural cottage for 2. No Pets/Smokers 01884 841320 Self-catering cottages in countryside near Lyme Regis. Japanese food available. www.hellbarn.co.uk Padstow house, 4 + baby, gardens, parking, Wi-Fi, Camel trail (bike storage), beaches.

07887 813495 holidaysat55@gmail.com Wye Valley/Forest of Dean. Fully equipped 4-star single storey cottage.

Two bedrooms both en-suite. Central heating/bedlinen provided. Rural retreat with shops/pubs one mile. Short breaks available. Warm welcome. Tel: 01594833259 www.cowshedcottage.co.uk Cotswolds near Chipping Campden.

Thatched cottage. Sleeps 4. Tel: 01386 840950 www.tythebarn.co.uk info@tythebarn.co.uk Country Gardener

for 2, nestling between Wye and Usk Valleys. Shirenewton village & pubs closeby. Wonderful walks, splendid castles & bustling market towns.

Perfect for all seasons!

Tel: 01291 641826 lynne@bryncosyn.co.uk www.bryncosyn.co.uk

Hartland Abbey Cottages

2 delightful cottages in AONB. One

by Atlantic cove, one in hamlet ½ mile inland on Hartland Abbey estate.

Wonderful walking/wildflowers on adjacent SW coast path and beautiful beaches. Both sleep 2-8. Available weeks from Sept 2nd. www.hartlandabbey.com/holidaycottages/ Email: ha_admin@btconnect.com Tel: 01884 860225/01237 441234

CLASSIF IED North Devon near Clovelly. 3 delightful cottages situated in 12 acres of idyllic countryside. Sleeps 2-4. 1 Wheelchair friendly. Prices from £190 p.w. Brochure: 01237 431324 www.foxwoodlodge.co.uk

Creekside Cottages, Near Falmouth, Cornwall Waters-edge, Rural & Village Cottages Sleeping 2-8. Peaceful & Comfortable.

Available year round. Dogs Welcome.

Open Fires.

Call us on 01326 375972 for our colour brochure www.creeksidecottages.co.uk

Penrice Castle Gower 16 holiday cottages on an 18th century Estate on the Gower Peninsula with beautiful Grade I listed historic park and gardens.

Tel: 01792 391212 www.penricecastle.co.uk

Explore Devon and be spoilt. 2 nights DBB £185 per couple. Farmhouse hospitality. Great trip advisor reports. 01566 783010 www.eastraddon-dartmoor.co.uk Quality B&B Truro Cornwall. Ideal for visiting beautiful cornish gardens and coast. £40 pppn 01872 241081 Somerset 5* Restaurant with Rooms.

Close to many NT Gardens, Houses and Dorset Coast. Countryside Location with Lovely Garden. Pet Friendly 01935 423902 www.littlebarwickhouse.co.uk Paignton, Devon, 4* B&B. Ideal location for coast, countryside and NT gardens.

En-suite rooms, garden, parking. Green Tourism Gold Award. www.harbourlodge. co.uk 01803 556932

Cards & Prints A range of over 200 greetings cards and prints from the flower paintings of

AnneCotterill

We sell to both individuals and trade. no order too small.

Contact us for your free 2016 catalogue.

Pembrokeshire, Wales 4 star luxury cottages in idyllic surroundings. Fully equipped, open all year. Children & pets welcome.

Tel: 01239 841850 www.valleyviewcottages.co.uk

Near Stratford-upon-Avon Lovely self-catering cottage in peaceful location: Large garden, Sleeps 2. Perfect for famous gardens, NT properties & Cotswolds.

Tel: 01789 740360 www.romanacres.com

Antiques Sidmouth Devon Holiday bungalow in AONB overlooking Donkey Sanctuary. Sleeps 4. April – October. Ideal for walkers, nature lovers and children. jandtmercer@gmail.com www.sandwaysholidaycottage.co.uk 07842 514296

Mill House Fine Art Publishing, Bellflower Gallery, Market Place, Colyton, Devon eX24 6JS

Tel. 01297 553100 info@millhousefineart.com

www.millhousefineart.com

Craft & Stationary Paper Unusual paper with an extra surprise, even Ellie Poo! 100% recycled made in UK. 01458 251662 www.elliepoopaper.co.uk

Flyscreens

International dealer requires records (all types) old gramophones, phonographs, music boxes, radios, valves, telephones, early sewing machines, typewriters, calculators, tin toys, scientific instruments etc. Parts also wanted. Top cash price paid 07774 103139 davepauled1@yahoo.com

Bed & Breakfast

4 Star Gold Award B&B in Stoulton, Worcestershire. Luxury accommodation beautiful surroundings. Perfectly Accommodation With Beautiful in situated to visit Worcester, The Malvern’s, Gardens Pershore, Cheltenham and Cotswolds.

Northumberland Luxury self-catering 01905 841129 www.sunbrae.co.uk cottage, sleeps 2. Rural location. Near to Charming B&B in garden cottage annex. major tourist attractions inc Hadrian’s Wall Double with en-suite. Village location near 01884 841320 Jurassic Coast, Bridport. Tel: 01308 488177 www.countrygardener.co.uk

flyscreens4u@sky.com

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CLASSIF IED Fruit Trees

Specialist Garden Products Ex display sheds. Stables, field shelters, garages, summerhouses, offices, workshops/agricultural 01935 891195 Dorset Hazel Hurdles. Made to order by Alan Brown, Wool, Dorset. 01929 462761 www.brownshurdles.co.uk

Adam’s Apples Apple trees from £7.50 Over 100 varieties Dessert, juicing, cider & cookers to suit your farm, garden or smallholding Many other fruit trees & bushes.

Discounts for wholesale, community projects & schools. Advice and free catalogues.

Tel: 01404 841166 sales@adamsappletrees.co.uk www.adamsappletrees.co.uk

Garden Accessories

www.shedtidy.co.uk www.shedtidy.co.uk Gardeners multi-purpose multi-purpose Gardeners hanging panel. panel. Ideal hanging Idealas asaa vertical garden (living vertical garden (living wall) for all year floral wall) for all year floral colour (pictured) to hang colour hang on any(pictured) rail or baretowall or on rail orherb baregarden wall or asany a kitchen asoraas kitchen garden storageherb for garden or as storage for garden accessories.

See our accessories.

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Garden Furniture UKs leading supplier of Teak Furniture for the Garden

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Burrow Farm Gardens www.burrowfarmgardens.co.uk

13 Acre Garden Open 10am-6pm Tea Room, Nursery & Gift Shop Garden Sundries Solent Engraving for Plant Labels, Memorial Plaques, Signage, Name Tags, etc. Flat plate engraving on Metal or Plastic. 02380894843 solent.engraving@ btinternet.com

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Specialist Nurseries & Plants

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Tel: 07546 874083 / 01643 818092 andrew@atpgardening.co.uk www.atpgardening.co.uk 46

Quality products carefully made in Britain

including pinus montezume broadleaves and rhododendrons

Garden Services

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Rustic timber garden rooms, summer houses, gazebos and garden structures from sustainably managed local woodlands

Gardens To Visit

Polytunnels

Wisteria Pruning, renovation, Oxfordshire, surrounding area. Richard Barrett 01865 452334 wisteriapruning@tiscali.co.uk

MALVERN COPPICING

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Water Lilies

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Buy online at www.waterlily.co.uk or visit our gardens in Weymouth

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Country Gardener

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55x45 DWL ad_Dorset Water Lily 16/01/2015 11:3

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DULFORD NURSERIES SPECIALIST TREE & SHRUB GROWERS Growers & suppliers of the widest range of Native & Ornamental Trees, Shrubs & Hedging in the West Country

Tel: 01884 266361 www.dulford-nurseries.co.uk Dulford Nurseries, Dulford, Cullompton, Devon EX15 2BY

Grower and retailer of hardy alpine plants for your garden

Visit us at tadhamalpines.co.uk for availability and further information.

Thornhayes nursery Devon’s specialist tree grower for a wide range of ornamental, fruit, hedging trees and a selection of choice shrubs.

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Tel: 01884 266746 www.thornhayes-nursery.co.uk

Advertise here...

Call on 01823 619073 for details, or email: ava@countrygardener.co.uk

Coming up in the August issue of Country Gardener

SPEAKERS GALORE! Our August issue will carry the hugely popular Speakers Supplement, a pull out and keep guide to garden and gardening speakers and lecturers. It has been fully updated for 2016.

It provides new options, new ideas and possibilities as you plan your meetings.

www.growersorganics.com Tel: 01752 881180

Lower Severalls Crewkerne, Somerset TA18 7NX Tel 07857 645123 or 07851 468430 www.hurstbrookplants.co.uk Specialist Nursery OPEN March - October Thursday - Sunday 10.00 - 4.00 GROUP VISITS WELCOME and HOMEMADE REFRESHMENTS available by prior arrangement. Please email or ring for details.

Trimplant Nursery, Combe Raleigh, Honiton, Devon sales@trimplants.co.uk www.trimplants.co.uk

Nursery open Thursday, Friday, Saturday

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www.countrygardener.co.uk

Contact Ava Bench on 01823 619073 or email ava@countrygardener.co.uk The August issue of Country Gardener will be available from mid July onwards.

47

Make more plants

Hollyhocks self-so w, so once you ha ve introduced them they should spring up of their own volition, but they will creep to the Watch out for this sunny, open front of the bed. and dig some up and put them further back out of th sweep. Don't trans e limelight to get a balanced fer them directly, though – they need a short spell of tender love and care.

Dig up self-sown seedlings and pot them into a three inch pot. Once th e root into a slim, deep po s have filled it, move them on t to accommodat e the tap root.

Hollyhock heaven is

here again!

No traditional cottage garden would be complete without the tall, graceful spires of hollyhocks. Once a Victorian favourite, these glorious towers of colour became forgotten flowers. Now their time has come again.

Growing hollyhocks (Alcea rosea) in the garden is the goal of many gardeners who remember these impressive flowers from their youth. The flower stalks on hollyhocks can reach heights of nine feet tall! They can tower above a garden, adding a lovely vertical element to your borders.

Translated as 'holy mallow', hollyhocks were brought here from the Holy Land by Crusaders, and have been gracing our gardens ever since.

They are nomads by nature, so if your neighbours have them, they are bound to pitch up in your garden sooner or later, spreading out a parasol of green leaves in the first year, then soaring skywards in the second.

The flower spikes teeter above bristly foliage and are studded with felted buttons, which pop open either into poppy-like bells or rosette doubles in shades of white, lemon, cola-cube or liquorice, depending on the variety.

Hollyhocks no longer quite fit their let-them-get-on-withit cottage garden image. But if you give them care and attention, they are worth it come July.

With their open, saucer flowers, splashed all the way up their jack-and-the-bean-stalk stems, each one busy with butterflies and bumblebees, they'll more than repay your efforts.

Because they flower in summer, and because of their selfsufficient habit of self-sowing in paving and gravel, it would seem that they are happy to live in desert-dry soil.

In sunny, five-star accommodation, the flower-spikes will tower as high as nine feet giving sunflowers a run for their money.

Once you have planted your hollyhocks, they will need minimal care, but there are a few things you should be aware of when growing hollyhocks.

First, hollyhocks are a short lived perennial. This means that most varieties will only live two to three years. Their lifespan can be extended some by removing growing hollyhock flowers as soon as they fade. Cutting them back to the ground and mulching them will also help. The one benefit that comes from growing hollyhock flowers is that they easily reseed themselves.

48

Hollyhocks are archetypal cottage garden plants and you often see them growing beautifully in churchyards. The cleaner, sulphur-free air that we all now enjoy, however, means that fungus on hollyhocks is more common.

Rust fungus forms little pustules on the underside of hollyhock basal leaves and often spreads from there up the stem.

Hollyhock rust is a fungal disease that shows up as angry cinnamon coloured spots on the undersides of leaves.

It first came here from South America in the late 19th century, when hollyhocks were the must-have plant. It devastated collections across Europe, spreading between gardens via the leaves of wild mallow.

As soon as you see rust, pinch off the affected leaves. Water is key to preventing it. Hollyhocks have long tap roots, which allows them to bypass the surface dryness and hunt for moisture deep down.

So any way you can trap moisture around their roots watering in dry weather and creating a lid over the soil to hold in water by spreading a two inch layer of garden compost around stems - will help.

Don't pile it up against the stem as it will cause rot and, as rust is worse in humid conditions, keep your hose aimed low so that no water splashes on the hairy leaves.

If you let them grow tall - they're great for hiding fences at the back of a border, or as centrepieces to island beds and partners to roses - it pays to keep them on the straight and narrow by staking with a bamboo cane pushed in the ground behind the tallest spikes.

When they finish flowering the stems can be cut right down to ground level or left to ripen for seed.

Although classified as annuals or biennials, the parent plant might come back to flower again for a few years, but it should only be kept if healthy. If it's riddled with rust, bin or burn it.

The same goes for self-sown hollyhocks: clear away all affected rusty leaves in spring and you're halfway to having fantastic flowers in summer.

Country Gardener

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49

‘Please take care in the garden’ Grenville Sheringham says gardening injuries - from falling off ladders to accidents with power tools makes it vital to keep concentrating when gardening One of the great pleasures of gardening is being able to relax and unwind, enjoying the fresh air and exercise. But it is easy to drop one’s guard and have a silly accident, as I recently had the occasion to remind myself.

I have used mechanical hedgetrimmers hundreds of times over the years, and never had the slightest worry about using them. Why, then, did I casually let go of the trimmer, catching the little finger of my left hand on the blade and making a nasty mess of it? (I hasten to assure the reader that I still have my finger, and thankfully no permanent damage has resulted).

Looking back I can only put it down to momentary loss of concentration, but it served to remind me how dangerous not only power tools, but almost every tool we use in the garden can be if we don’t take care.

Even a simple tool like a bow saw can cause a serious accident, as I discovered many years ago when working in a garden cutting the top growth from an overgrown hedge. As the owner had a toddler, I warned her that I would be using sharp tools and suggested she kept him indoors while I was working. I was up a ladder, and dropped my bow saw while reaching to cut a branch. Within seconds it seemed the toddler saw the bright shiny object and crawled towards it, but tripped and fell. He looked up at me briefly before letting out an almighty scream as blood trickled slowly down his face (sorry gentle reader!).

Thankfully the incident ended without major injury, as the mother was a doctor and reacted instantly and relatively calmly, and after a quick visit to A & E (those were the days) all ended without serious concern. Needless to say I wasn’t invited back to work in that garden.

Now hillside gardens have their own unique hazards, and living by the Malvern Hills I am often working in steep gardens. Many years ago I was clearing undergrowth near the top of a steep bank. It was getting late and starting to rain, and it was time I stopped for lunch. I was tired, but decided just to finish the last bit while I was up there. I pulled 50

at a clump of ivy, which came away rather more easily than expected, and next thing I knew I had performed a backward somersault and landed with a thump on my back on the lawn below!

I couldn’t move. I tried to shout for help but had winded myself and could only manage a pathetic squeak. I lay there for I don’t know how long, then feeling excruciating pain in my back I leapt to my feet and ran like a madman down to the street where I attracted the attention of a passer-by who quickly summoned an ambulance. Amazingly there were no broken bones or permanent injury, but it was a few weeks before I could move freely again.

I had previously attended an osteopath for a stiff neck and shoulders, and am pleased to report that that particular problem never returned!

Just one more hillside garden incident to relate, then I promise to stop before I put the reader off from ever gardening again.

I was recently strimming a lawn on the top terrace of a steep garden. Just below the lawn was a formal box hedge, edging the lower level of the garden. It is surprising how similar a lawn and a box hedge look when they are nearly on the same level, and sure enough I stepped off the lawn and into the box hedge, the strimmer strapped to me on a harness.

I found myself lying in the hedge, the strimmer whirring away by my feet. I managed to locate the stop switch and apart from a few cuts and bruises am pleased to say I emerged unscathed, but no more strimming got done that day.

Working in gardens day in and day out for many years, I suppose my chances of having an accident are higher than the owner of a small garden doing the occasional bit of tidying. But it is important to be aware that all tools, especially sharp tools and power tools, can be dangerous.

Tiredness, inattention, a moment’s carelessness can all lead to an accident and possible injury, so if you are working in the garden, please, take care.

Country Gardener

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