Somerset Country Gardener July 2016

Somerset

Issue No 140 July 2016

FREE

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 Somerset’s allotment sensation PLUS Garden fairs, days out and summer events from all over Somerset

www.countrygardener.co.uk A family run business that has been growing since 1967 CROCKERTON, WARMINSTER, WILTSHIRE 01985 217413

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Standard sizes from £28.30 or bespoke sizes available on request.

In-situ service also available - we will come and weave your fencing on site. Please ring 01823 490249 for a quotation and delivery charges.

PH Coate & Son Ltd, The Willows & Wetlands Visitor Centre, Meare Green Court, Stoke St Gregory, Taunton, TA3 6HY

Please visit our website for further details

www.coatesenglishwillow.co.uk

- 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

3

...IN SOMERSET

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A look at news, events and happenings in Somerset

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Frome allotments - 100 plots and opening for the NGS

New Frome allotments good enough to open for the NGS The transformation of an open field four years ago to a pristine site containing 100-plot allotments that look so good that they are opening for the National Gardens Scheme in July and already has a long waiting list – that’s the remarkable success story of The Muriel Jones Field Allotments at Feltham, Frome.

The allotments are an unexpected sight down an overgrown lane. From no dig to well dug, there’s a tapestry of gardening styles among the 98 plots on a gently sloping five-acre site, leading to the River Frome, with views of Cley Hill and Longleat forest, with flowers, fruit and vegetables in abundance.

In 2012 these allotments were just a field in the Frome countryside. The waiting list for an allotment in the

town was more than 100 with popularity growing. As a result of this the site was purchased with funds from the Muriel Jones Foundation and Frome Town Council. Frome Allotment Association was formed to manage the site with volunteers carrying out the day-to-day maintenance.

Today this successful site of worked allotments has generated such an enthusiasm for allotments within the town that the waiting list is back up to 90.

A visit to the allotment shows how people use their 15x5 or 10x5 plot in completely different ways. With no mains water connection, the harvesting and storage of water is a point of interest. A grant from the Big Lottery led to the installation of a high quality composting toilet.

There are eight raised beds for less mobile gardeners, built with a bursary in memory of the garden writer Elspeth Thompson offered by The National Gardens Scheme. The bursary provides funding to amateur gardeners, within community groups in England and Wales, to enable them to create a garden or an allotment for the benefit of their communities.

The Muriel Jones Foundation is a charity, a family trust based in London that was set up in 2010 and works with a wide variety of organisations. Its main aim is to encourage and sustain economic growth in the community.

Muriel Jones Field Allotments, Feltham, Frome, Somerset BA11 5ND. Open for the NGS: Tuesday 5th July, 10am5pm. Admission ÂŁ4.50, children free. Home-made teas.

Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic. Viewing area over allotments designated for wheelchair users. Accessible WC. Dogs allowed on short leads.

Frome Allotment Association.www.fromeallotments.co.uk

SWEET PEA FORTNIGHT AT FORDE ABBEY For those lovers of sweet peas there’s two weeks of sheer pleasure ahead as Forde Abbey holds its annual ‘Sweet Pea Fortnight’ from 9th to 24th July.

Up to 80 varieties of sweet peas will adorn the gardens. Although the abbey sets aside a special fortnight to see the sweet peas at their best, they bloom for so much longer than that, so you will almost certainly be able to enjoy them from the end of June to the beginning of August. The abbey offers a service which enables visitors to contact them so they can advise you of the best time to come.

Each sweet pea variety is grown on its own pyramid: this will show off each one to its best advantage and enable easier comparison between types – and people’s favourites. There’s also the chance to feature the sweet peas in the photography competition being run at the abbey.

Sweet peas at Forde Abbey The gift shop also stocks sweet pea-themed toiletries and gifts, as well as seeds of all the varieties grown this year. If you are lucky you might find bunches of the sweet peas on sale in the gift shop too. Forde Abbey, Chard, Somerset TA20 4LU. Tel: 01460 220231. www.fordeabbey.co.uk 4

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OPEN: 9am-5.30pm Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm Sunday

Coffee shop open Tuesday-Sunday 10.30am-4pm

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

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

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www.countrygardener.co.uk

5

BEHIND THE SCENES AT HESTERCOMBE

Gold at Chelsea Flower Show for Somerset artists

If you would like a glimpse of behind the scenes in a garden like Hestercombe near Taunton then there’s an opportunity on every Friday throughout June starting at 11am.

Before you explore the summertime gardens, there’s a chance to meet one of the friendly garden team for an introduction to the unique combination of Georgian, Edwardian and Victorian garden design at Hestercombe.

Normal garden admission applies. Booking not required – just ask at the Visitor Reception when you arrive. Every Friday in June at 11am.

Hestercombe Gardens Project, Hestercombe, Taunton TA2 8LG. Tel: 01823 413923

Rosemoor roses - open to see through to 10th July

Rosemoor delivers on roses 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 a 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: 01805624067 6

Somerset-based artists Fiona Campbell and Nick Weaver scored a double success at the Chelsea Flower Show celebrating the success of the Viking Cruises Mekong Garden’s gold and best artisan awards.

An endless stream of visitors admired and appreciated the garden, designed by multi-gold award-winner Sarah Eberle.

The duo who worked together on ‘step in stone’, an ambitious art in quarries project in Somerset, were commissioned by landscape designer Sarah Eberle to create two of the focal pieces for her RHS Chelsea Flower Show Artisan Garden. The garden was inspired

by Cambodia’s floating gardens and artisanal fishing techniques in the Mekong River region. Fiona created a large canopy inspired by traditional fishing nets and silk weaving. Nick made a lounger styled on a traditional fishing boat.

The 7metre x 5metre garden was entirely water with a small deck leading to the boat/lounger and cantilevered canopy suspended above. The beds follow the style of the region and contain an eclectic mixture of fruit, flowers and vegetables. Harvested hazel, other reclaimed woods and a plethora of woven wire, silk and found materials were used to harmonise with the planting.

COTHAY MANOR JOINS IN NGS SCHEMES JULY OPEN DAY Cothay Manor near Wellington is joining in the National Gardens’ Scheme with an Open Day on Sunday, July 31st.

Proceeds will be split between the National Garden Scheme and The Parish Churches’ Restoration Funds between 2pm and 5pm. Cothay will be open as usual from 11am until 5pm.

There will be the usual Sunday house tours, at 11.45am and 2.15pm. Booking in advance is not necessary.

The tearoom will be open for refreshments and cream teas.

Adults £7.50; Children £3.75 Cothay Manor and Gardens, Greenham, Nr. Wellington, Somerset, TA21 OJR. Tel: 01823 672283

Country Gardener

Saturday 30th & Sunday 31st July 2016 Discover a garden near you.

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

Meerkats, Gamegoer Gundog Display, Ferrets and Harris Hawks, Falconry Display, The Hipcats, The Somerset Paddies, Junior Tag Rugby, Companion Dog Show.

For full details of what’s on and when & class programme schedules, see our web site www.portisheadflowershow.com Saturday 11.30am-6.00pm Sunday 10.30am-6.00pm Adults £5, Children under 17 Free, Free Parking Telephone: 01275 817350 Mobile: 07989140367 Flower Show Field, Clapton Lane, Portishead BS20 7RA

LOCKYER FUCHSIAS Hardy Exotic Plant Centre Visit our new cacti and succulent house.

We also have a new range of restio and protea as well as great ranges of bamboos, tree ferns, ferns, cannas, gingers, bannas and shrubs, perennials, trees.

Open every day 10am-5pm Lower Henlade, Taunton, TA3 5NB (5 mins from J25, follow A358 to Yeovil, then signs to the Mt Somerset Hotel)

Tel: 01823 443701 www.deserttojungle.com

1000s available for collection or mail order (Dept SCG) Lansbury, 70 Henfield Road, Coalpit Heath, Bristol BS36 2UZ

TEL: 01454 772219 Nursery Open Most Days Mar-Sept 10am-1pm and 2.30pm-5pm PLUS

Various Special Nursery Open Days with FREE talks and demos April - Sept Please ring for further details and before visiting to avoid disappointment DVD's 'Fuchsias The Easy Way' and 'Fuchsias Advanced Techniques' £14.99 plus £1.50 P&P

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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

SPECIALIST TREES

BIG TREES –

This line of Scots Pine protects crops and buildings from winds descending the downland ridge

friends or threat?

Mark Hinsley defends the importance of trees not only to our landscape but critically providing shelter for homes, crops and prevention from flood damage When you were young did you have a big older friend or sibling? You were a little in awe of him/her, even a bit afraid, but this person meant that the bullies would leave you alone.

Consequently, you readily accepted the slightly risky element of the friendship in return for the much wider protection from harm from which you benefited.

Big trees in towns are a similar proposition.

We all know about bullies. You can’t reason with them, you can’t negotiate with them. They are an unfortunate fact of life and you either have to deal with them or be harmed by them.

Well, the big nasty bully that is gradually growing in strength in our lives at the moment is the weather – and our big older friends whom we fear a little but who can protect us are our trees.

This is not about reversing global warming – trees planted in an English town will not ‘save the planet’. This is not even a comment regarding the causes of global warming. Can you, gentle reader, pick the truth out of what is written and said regarding climate change? Because I’m blowed if I can!

No - this is about knowledge gained from history that the climate has always changed. An example: in A shelter-belt of poplar trees growing in a dry six out of ditch to provide crops with cover ten years between 1890 and 1900 the River Stour in Blandford, Dorset froze so hard that the town could hold skating parties on it.

Not told by boffins but from the diaries of the wife of the Steward to the Portman Estate, now Bryanston School.

We need to be aware that we are moving into an era when, for whatever reason, our weather is set to become more violent, but we are living in vulnerable houses built when it wasn’t.

14

Then we need to remember something that our ancestors knew and exploited as standard practice for thousands of years before we upped sticks, moved to the towns and forgot all about it – trees give you shelter from the weather – all kinds of weather.

You see them everywhere where there is the combination of good farmland and exposure to high winds – narrow strips of woodland planted at right angles to the prevailing wind.

They are called shelterbelts and they massively improved yields in the fields on the lee side. You see old cob cottages with yew trees planted on exposed sides so that driving rain didn’t dissolve what is essentially a mud hut.

“Every time we remove a tree from pretty much anywhere we increase the amount of rainwater that will hit our drains and rivers all at the same time.”

Go further afield and see old stone-built village squares in warm countries planted with trees to combat what they knew but didn’t name as ‘urban heat islands’.

Higher urban temperatures kill a lot more people than falling trees ever will.

Visit New England and see timber houses built under spreading trees to manage summer temperatures and reduce the cost of air conditioning.

And then there is flooding. A large tree on a rainy day is coated in gallons of water. More of that water as it drips off the tree soaks into the ground and is taken up by the roots and goes inside the tree. Some of that water never reaches the ground because as soon as the rain stops it begins to evaporate off the leaves. Every time we remove a tree from pretty much anywhere we increase the amount of rainwater that will hit our drains and rivers all at the same time. Every time we plant a tree – pretty much anywhere – we reduce it.

We need our large, slightly frightening friends or the weather bully is going to beat the hell out of us.

Mark Hinsley is from Arboriculture Consultants Ltd. www.treeadvice.info

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.

Add atmosphere and style to your summer garden

Thomas Sanderson's conservatory valet service not only restores conservatories to their former beauty, but with its new Valet Guard treatment breaks down embedded dirt and grime on glass panels.

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.

A quotation can be obtained by calling 0800 688 8113 or visit www.thomas-sanderson.co.uk

Add the finishing touches to your conservatory…

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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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We are also able to provide a service starting with a complete valet, to replacing blown units, damaged panels etc., even replacing complete roofs where necessary. We are happy to provide a guide on price over the telephone.

Backdoorshoes® are lightweight, waterproof, durable and unique, great for slipping on when you need to nip outside.

A vast choice of Mens, Ladies or Children’s designs to suit everyone, from Chickens-Meadow-Butterflies or Worms.

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Country Gardener

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It’s quite hard to come up with new ideas for fencing. Panels do tend to fit into a fairly predictable format of a certain width, normally 1.8m wide with varying heights, and of course, if they are timber, which is more often than not the case, they are woody in appearance - we like wood, so that’s just fine. Our challenge is to come up with fresh ideas that will inspire our customers, giving them some new choices for their garden and other outdoor areas.

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.

Econergy Systems also clean and carry out repairs, from blown glass unit replacement to roof replacement.

Call 0800 904 7827 for guidance on price.

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.

Overheating, that makes the conservatory a no-go area for not only themselves but for guests, animals and plants..

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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Backdoor shoes – the ideal solution for summer Finding a pair of garden shoes that are lightweight, comfortable and easy to wear can be a challenge. Look no furtherbackdoorshoes® has the perfect, practical solution.

Created from a special expandable foam formula, they are very light to wear and are also completely waterproof, so you can leave those heavy wellies in the shed.

From meadows and bluebells to tulips and roses, the beautiful designs inspired by nature, are guaranteed to make the ladies smile, available in sizes 3 to 8. The men’s new Chunky Tread designs include a number of styles including Grass, British Brogue, Camouflage, Nuts ’n’ Bolts and Tyres and are available in sizes 8-14.

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Country Gardener

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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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WHITE POST NURSERY Langford Budville Friendly family run Nursery Unusual plants & old favourites Wide selection of perennials, shrubs, climbers, roses & herbs, hanging baskets & Summer plants Scarlett’s Kitchen & Tea Garden with freshly cooked tasty lunches, cakes & cream teas 01823 401517 www.scarlettsgarden.co.uk Mini digger & driver hire, garden landscaping & design ideas Ring Andy 07788 292004 Open 10am to 5pm 7 days

01823 400234/07887 654802 www.white-post.co.uk

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Bringing colour and grace to summer woodland gardens Marketa Hermova from Evenley Wood Gardens, a 60-acre private woodland garden explains how contains roses and lilies can bring stunning colour and romance into wooded garden landscapes Arboretums and woodland gardens are one of the typical environments in Britain, many of them established around the historical houses and estates.

Having a natural look, mainly because of a variety of trees, shrubs and bulbs, a goodlooking woodland garden tends to be a result of excellent plant knowledge of the head gardener accompanied by the expertise of ground condition.

Woodland areas seem to be big in our eyes because of the crowns of old trees above our heads and a huge shrub canopy around produced usually by camellias, rhododendrons and azaleas. Never the less, it’s very easy to overplant these gardens.

A new tree always looks small when planted and a little bit lost, if nothing else is growing around it. However, thinking long-term, a sufficient planting distance is one of the crucial factors which make the planting scheme 22

Country Gardener

and overall establishment of these gardens successful.

As visitors, we enjoy jogging and walking through the gardens while using the network of paths that provide endless possibilities where to go. We love spending time on our own, relaxing and enjoying the wildlife. But only in summer when the weather is warm. In the rest of the year, we look for the sunny areas that are not too windy and we try to avoid the waterlogged muddy parts as much as we can.

Not surprisingly, the flowers do the same and it is a daily battle for gardeners to balance the shady and sunny parts in these gardens.

Focussing on a design process and planting scheme, the colour of flowers, the scent and health of plants have the second place in the gardener’s priority list. A typical informal look is what makes the woodland gardens so unique and special. This is important to realize especially when the question of maintenance appears on a table. I remember a guided tour in one of the British woodland gardens where the head gardener has covered this topic by one simple sentence: “It’s not about the maintenance, but about our feeling for the garden.” How tidy the place needs to be to get visitors feeling good there?

Perhaps, only botanists could see a true value of holding a national plant collection, because

Sun usually enhances the scent of flowers and if planted by the hand of an expert, the roses will flower one after another, they will fit in the area by a shape and colour of the leaf foliage and their final size will correspond with the surrounding.

Woodland gardens are highly attractive in spring but especially in a late summer, native woodland area could be quite monotone with nothing much to show. This is the reason why there is always the intention to find more plants for a summer colour that would boost the attractiveness of a site. Wildlife flowers, British orchids, various types of honeysuckles and clematis as well as roses and lilies are possibly the most valuable plants regards the colour spectrum.

Lilies are often grown in pots but this rule can be easily broken, as some of the varieties can be planted directly in the ground.

A various flowering time of the lily varieties helps to elongate the overall flowering period. they recognise a difference between particular Lilium speciosum grows well in shady damp sites species and cultivars. Moreover, they know the while Lilium pyrenaicum prefers full sun. Lilium level of endangerment of these plants in the wild. superbum is an acid-loving species suitable for Even so, everybody could appreciate a mixture of woodland areas as well as Lilium lankongense, a colours and scents produced by trees and shrubs, hardy robust species from China. Lilium henryii, the especially if they are planted on one spot and in a orange flowering lily is a parent of many hybrids. large amount which only double the ‘wow effect’. The ordinary martagon lilies are superb plants for So, which trumps do gardeners carry in naturalising the gardens and many hybrids are their pocket to get a woodland garden well available. established and in the style! Plants, of course, Evenley Wood Garden, Evenley, better said a range of carefully selected plants.

Northamptonshire. NN13 5SH. Inspired by romanticism, most of the English rose www.evenleywoodgarden.co.uk gardens established in 19th century have been laid out in an old fashioned way.

The popularity of roses has declined since then, but never the less, roses are still used in many different ways. Having climbers and ramblers Woodland gardens with a great rose collections: planted near the conifers that act as the natural Anthony Woodland Gardens in Cornwall supporters is not a new approach, but more and more popular in woodland gardens.

RHS Hyde Hall in Essex A giant Rosa ‘Paul’s Himalayan Musk’ can easily Dorothy Clive Woodland Garden in Staffordshire reach 8 m and because it loves partial shade, it’s Gardens that are successful in growing lilies outside, one of the favourite cultivars that is often used in woodland gardens, even though the perfume despite the fear of lily beetle include: is not the strongest one.

Evenley Wood Garden in Northamptonshire, A white-flowering R. ‘Rambling Rector’ is an Fullers Mill Garden in Suffolk and excellent variety for woodlands. R. ‘Madame RHS Wisley Garden Alfred Carriere’ is hardy climber able to survive very well in north-facing sites. The climbing form of R. ‘Cecile Brunner’ is a good choice for sites with old trees, but also for its repeat flowering over late summer.

A rambler R. ‘Kiftsgate’ produces a cascade of small white flowers and again, this rosa is popular amongst the gardeners for its ability to grow and cover the trees. R.’Summer Wine’ could be the right choice in case that the soil conditions are not ideal.

Among the other varieties, suitable to use in woodland gardens are R.’Lavinia’, R.’Paul’s Scarlet Climber’ or R.’Warm Welcome’.

Roses and lilies worth travelling to see

www.countrygardener.co.uk

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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

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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.

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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

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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 SOMERSET compiled by Kate Lewis

Here’s a selection of gardening events to look out for during the next few weeks throughout Somerset. 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 1st

Taunton Hestercombe Gardens, 01823 413923

2nd/3rdMere NT Stourhead, 01747 841152 Craft Fair Browse the many and varied stalls local and unique jewellery, pottery, paintings, wood turners, and much more.

10am – 5.30pm 3rd

Tea Tasting Workshop Calling all tea lovers! Spend an afternoon learning about the history of tea and its origins, how it is picked, processed and made.

Sample different varieties and learn about their characteristics and benefits and how each should be brewed.

2.30pm – 5pm. £25/£26 2nd

Heytesbury Somerset Wildlife Trust, 01373 463881

Butterflies on Cotley & Scratchbury Hills Join Mick Ridgard on a hunt for different species of butterflies, including skippers and blues on these picturesque hills. Meet in layby next to roundabout on A36 near ST918429.

2pm – 4.30pm. Adult £2.50, child/ student £1.

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Bristol University of Bristol Botanic Garden, 0117 331 4906

National Gardens Scheme Open Day Visit the Botanic Garden and explore the organic flowing network of paths which lead visitors through collections of Mediterranean flora, rare natives, useful plants and those that illustrate plant evolution.

10am – 5pm. £4.50 7th/14th Wells Bishops Palace and Garden, 01749 988111

Watercolour Workshops Paint Outside in the Palace Grounds Following the Palace’s recent sell

Country Gardener

out beginner’s watercolour class David Simmons will be running a series of stand-alone workshops and outdoor painting sessions. £10, includes entry to the Palace grounds.

14th Bridgwater The Walled Gardens of Cannington, 01278 655042

Gulliver’s Travels - Outdoor Theatre Performance A brand-new and delightfully innovative adaptation of Jonathan Swift’s classic satirical story loved by adults and children alike, set in the Walled Gardens.

7pm Tickets from £8 16th/17th Bath 165 Newbridge Hill, BA1 3PX Sculpture to Enhance a Garden Three local sculptors come together to showcase their dynamic sculpture within a garden setting. Wander round the garden at your leisure or enjoy tea and homemade scones and cake from the terrace overlooking the garden. 11am5pm Entrance payable at the gate: £3 Details on 07793085267 or email helen@thehiddengardensofbath.co.uk

16th/17th Wraxall NT Tyntesfield, 01275 461900 Make Your Own Cricket Set 2016 Get into the swing of Tyntesfield Cricket Week and create your own cricket set under the expert guidance of the North Somerset Bodgers.

10am – 4pm. £75

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

24th Wimborne St Giles Shaftesbury Estate

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 3rd/10th/17th/24th Dunster Dunster Castle, 01643 821314

CLUBS AND O THER ORGANISAT IONS July 1st

2nd

4th

6th Victorian Explorers with Exmoor Zoo Get up close to a variety of animals, big bugs and creepy crawlies and learn all about the Victorian age of exploration.

10am – 4pm 5th/12th/19th/26th Mere NT Stourhead, 01747 841152 Forest Friday Bushcraft Expert Greg Power returns to Stourhead to share his outdoor skills, teaching the art of fire lighting and a special session on camouflage.

Join workshops in trapeze, stone carving and story making.

11am – 3pm. £5 7

th

Porlock Porlock Recreation Ground, 01643 863150

12th

13th

13th

14th

Hardy Plant Society Somerset Group ‘PLANTS WITH IMPRESSIVE PEDIGREES’ – MARY TOOMEY Plant Heritage Somerset Group MEMBERS PLANT SALE, 1.30pm AND AT 2.30pm ‘ALL YEAR ROUND COLOUR IN THE GARDEN’ – MICHAEL SMITH Details on 01278 451631 or clapppauline@aol.com Weston-super-Mare Horticultural Society ALLOTMENT COMPETITION Details on 01934 514057 Castle Cary Gardening Association ‘SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW’ – DAVID USHER Details on 01963 350618 Frome Selwood Horticultural Society ‘GROWING ENGLISH CUT FLOWERS’ – LARA SMITH Details on 01373 462162 Kilmersdon Gardeners ‘PERSONALISING YOUR GARDEN’ – STEVE TAYLOR Details on 01761 233325 Nailsea & District Horticultural Society ‘PLANTS FOR SHADE’ – ADRIAN HUTCHINSON Details on 01275 855342 East Coker Gardening Club ‘TWELVE MONTHS OF COLOURS’ – NEIL LOVESEY Details on 01935 862447

www.countrygardener.co.uk

16th The Cotley Inn, Wambrook, nr Chard SCARECROW TEA PARTY 16th Weston-super-Mare Horticultural Society GARDEN COMPETITION Details on 01934 514057 18th Burnham Horticultural Society ‘NATURE’S NEIGHBOURS’ – COLIN HIGGINS Details on 01278 788058 19th Holford Gardener’s Group MEMBERS GARDEN MEETING Details on 01278 741130 20th Backwell Garden Club GROWING INTO MOOR PLANTS’ – GILLY HAYWARD Details on 01275 218401 21st Stowey Gardeners ‘PLANTS FOR SHADE’ – ADRIAN HUTCHINSON Details on 01278 733334 24th Weston-super-Mare Horticultural Society OPEN GARDEN WITH REFRESHMENTS AT 14 EKSDALE CLOSE Details on 01934 514057 26th Merriott Gardening Club ‘FUCHSIAS & PELARGONIUMS’ – BRIAN CARLSON 26th Enmore & District Gardening Club ‘BEES SURVIVAL- OUR SURVIVAL’ – KEN EDWARDS Details on 01278 671654 26th Isle of Wedmore Gardening Club ‘ROSES FOR GARDENS & SHOW’ – ROY HALSEY Details on 01278 641345 29th Minehead Garden Club ‘NEW TRICKS FOR OLD GARDENERS’ – KATHERINE CROUCH Details on 01643 705108 30th Cotley Inn, Wambrook 102ND WAMBROOK FLOWER SHOW Details on 01460 239429 30th Somerset Fuchsia & Pelargonium Society ANNUAL FUCHSIA SHOW Details on 01823 272614 30th/31st Portishead Horticultural Society FLOWER SHOW & COUNTRY FAIR, SHOW FIELD, CLAPTON LANE Details on 01275 817350

39

LOCAL Directory Garden Fencing

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

Call: 01398 323391 Mob: 07980 759099

If you would like to advertise your business or service in our Somerset Local Directory, please contact Ava Bench ava@countrygardener.co.uk Tel: 01823 619073

GARDEN SERVICES AROUND SOMERSET

Garden Services

Specialist Nurseries & Plants

Custom Timber Buildings

RFP Trees, Woodland and Countryside Management We conduct all aspects of Tree, Woodland and Countryside management. Including hedge maintenance, Fruit tree pruning, Arboricultural surveys, Tree pruning and removal. Tree work carried out to British standard 3998.

Tel: 07966 982845 rory.proctor@hotmail.co.uk www.somersettreespecialists.co.uk

Ex display sheds, stables, field shelters, garages, summerhouses, offices, workshops and agricultural.

Tel: 01935 891195

Hurst Brook Plants Specialist Growers of Peonies, Iris and other Perennials. Lower Severalls, Crewkerne, TA18 7NX. Tel: 07857 645123 hurstbrookplants@btinternet.com www.hurstbrookplants.co.uk

Pond Services

South West Ponds Ponds, large and small, constructed, renovated and maintained.

Tel: 01761 434349 www.southwestponds.co.uk

If you would like to advertise your business or service in our Somerset Local Directory, please contact Ava Bench ava@countrygardener.co.uk Tel: 01823 619073

Somerset Federation of Gardening Clubs A hub for specialist horticultural organisations, societies & gardening clubs in the West Country.

www.somersetfederationofgardeningclubs.org.uk

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 Somerset magazine, please contact ava@countrygardener.co.uk Tel: 01823 619073 40

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

WILDLIFE

Newts can survive in your garden even without a pond

By Vivienne Lewis

Newts look like lizards and it’s sometimes confusing when we find one not by a pond – so how do you tell the difference?

I picked up a tiny newt near the back door. At least I thought it was a newt – or was it a little lizard?

And if it was a newt why it was there and nowhere near a pond? How could it survive away from water?

I found out that amphibians like newts can spend a huge amount of time on dry land, in fact most of their time away from water, and can be hundreds of metres away from it, although they need to find a pond in the spring to breed.

The difference between lizards and newts is that lizards have scaly skin while newts have skin that’s much smoother but sometimes ‘warty’. If you have a chance for a closer look you could count the number of toes on the front pair of legs – newts have four toes and lizards have five. I didn’t do that but maybe next time, as I did pick it up.

Lizards will rush away with quick movements but newts have a slower, more lumbering way of getting around. So this was definitely a newt – it didn’t exactly freeze but it didn’t rush off either!

There are three native newts in the UK. Smooth newts are the most common and are similar to the palmate newt. Although all newts are protected by law the rarer great crested newt is strictly protected.

Smooth newts are about 10cm long, usually with a brown upper body sometimes with visible black spots and a pale orange belly with small black spots. Males develop a continuous wavy crest, running from the head to the end of the tail, during the spring.

Palmate newts are a little shorter with pink unspotted throats, and males develop webbed back feet, a ridge running along the back and a thin filament at the end of the tail during the breeding season. There can be colour variations: smooth newts can appear orange, cream or pale green and these are natural genetic variations.

42

Great crested newts are quite recognizable, being bigger and usually darker. They are up to 16cm long with rough, black skin often with white-tipped ‘warts’, and a bright orange belly with irregular black blotches. During the breeding season males have a jagged crest running from the head, along the back, with a break at the base of the tail; the tail also has a conspicuous white flash.

If you think you have a great crested newt in your garden pond contact Natural England or the Countryside Council for Wales. After receiving information from the relevant statutory agency you should inform your local Amphibian and Reptile Group and the local Biological Record Centre of the sighting.

These records help these groups understand the distribution of this species locally and will be important for providing planners and developers with the correct information.

Sometimes newts with gills are seen in ponds. This is known as neotony, where an adult newt has retained its larval characteristics. It’s a natural phenomenon but the newt won’t develop and will remain in a pond for the whole of its life.

Sometimes newt larvae (or frog tadpoles) are found in the water after the summer. This is unlikely to be neoteny, but a delay in development and metamorphosis will be completed the following spring (if they survive the winter).

It’s not advised to introduce newts into your pond, or any amphibians and their eggs. Instead, create amphibian-friendly features like ponds, compost heaps and log piles and this should encourage newts into your garden.

All three species feed mostly on invertebrates, either aquatic or terrestrial. They can be effective at keeping down populations of pest species such as slugs and snails. Great crested newts can take larger prey, occasionally even feeding on the tadpoles and adults of frogs and the other newt species.

Newts are also a good food source for many species such as grass snakes and birds. The tadpoles provide food for larger aquatic invertebrates, and other amphibian species.

So finding the little newt proved to be quite a revelation. We don’t have a pond, nor do our neighbours, so it has come quite a long way. But we do have plenty of damp corners in our old garden so it should survive and we have seen them before – and when we do, it’s another exciting wildlife discovery.

Find out more from www.wildaboutgardens.co.uk/wildlife/ amphibians

Country Gardener

Triscombe Nurseries

Former Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden established over 60 years ago.

Come and have a look at our extensive range of hardy stock plants, including fruit trees.

GREENCOMBE

Tel 01984 618267 www.triscombenurseries.co.uk info@triscombenurseries.co.uk

Open every day 2-6pm April through July

Evening lecture & buffet Friday 1st July 2016

The enchanted garden overlooking Porlock Bay

OPEN Mon-Sat 9.00am-5.30pm

For information visit www.greencombe.org or call 01643-862363

West Bagborough, Nr Taunton, Somerset TA4 3HG between West Bagborough and Crowcombe (signposted off A358)

Admission £7, under 16s £1

Agricultural Show

Honiton

Discover

Marwood

6:30pm for 7:00pm at West Monkton Village Hall, Monkton Heathfeild, TA2 8NE Mary Toomey - "Plants with Impressive Pedigress" International speaker Ticket only Members £3 international speaker Non-members £5 members £3 ticket only janet.murley@btinternet.com non-members 01884 820840 £5

janet.murley@btinternet.com 01884820840

Hill Gardens

Thursday 4th August 2016

Discover the stunning views at Marwood Hill Gardens, 20 acres of private gardens with lakes in North Devon.

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.

The gardens are a wonderful haven in which to relax and enjoy the impressive collections of plants, shrubs and trees and experience the views and peaceful atmosphere.

Specialist Plant Sales

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

Enjoy more of the Country Gardener experience by visiting our website

At Marwood, we aim to provide something a little bit different, something which you can take home.

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Garden & Estate Machinery SALES - SERVICE - REPAIRS

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43

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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

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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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