Somerset Country Gardener Winter 2016

Somerset

Issue No 145 Winter 2016

FREE

Jobs to keep you working

THIS WINTER! Hardy vegetables that LOVE the cold

The BEST VALUE Christmas trees

COUNTING DOWN TO CHRISTMAS WITH LOTS OF SOMERSET GARDENING EVENTS

PLUS: Gardening

books for Christmas; Native fungi; Overwintering your plants; Solving box plant diseases

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

www.fonthill-lakeside.com

BATH ROAD, BITTON, BRISTOL 0117 932 3110

Coates English Willow growing willow since 1819

NATURAL, SUSTAINABLE FENCING AND GARDEN PRODUCTS We offer a full range of willow hurdles, trellis and arches.

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 2

www.coatesenglishwillow.co.uk Country Gardener

Contents

"As I write, snow is falling outside my window, and indoor all around me half a hundred garden catalogues are in bloom" - KATHARINE S. WHITE

REASONS TO BE IN THE GARDEN IN WINTER

out of sight but right under our noses.

Page 24

Gill Heavens rejects the idea that winter is the time when gardening jobs stop and urges us all to enjoy the invigorating air with some important tasks. Page 8

FANTAST IC F UNGI

The wildlife beauty within dry stone walls Dry stone walls are a conservationists dream, they are wildlife apartment blocks, larders and hideaways and they are packed full of a myriad of interesting and beneficial creatures tucked just

Dorset

Issue No 150 Winter 2016

FREE

Jobs to keep you working

THIS WINTER! Hardy vegetables that LOVE the cold

The BEST VALUE Christmas trees

COUNTING DOWN TO CHRISTMAS WITH LOTS OF DORSET GARDENING EVENTS

PLUS: Gardening books for Christmas; Native fungi; Overwintering your plants; Solving box plant diseases

ON THE COVER THIS MONTH

Rowan berries are also known as mountain ash berries and are native to the UK and provide all winter colour.

They also act as a reminder that there are still things happening in gardens through the winter months and plenty of reasons to keep gardening! www.countrygardener.co.uk

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

The Forestry Commission is campaigning this autumn to safeguard native fungi ,extraordinary organisms which are neither plants, nor animals yet some of which are indispensable partners for many plants.

Page 17

ARE YOUR PLANTS READY FOR THE WORST OF WINTER? How much help do your plants need in terms of protection this winter? As the temperatures fall and frosts start to bite plants do need protection. Page 18

The appeal of the south west coastal paths We may want to look at Cornwall through BBC's 'Poldark' on a winter’s evening, but if you get out there and discover the coastal paths it’s much more fun. Page 24

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: 01278 671037

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

Wonderful gardening books for Christmas

There have been some lovely books published this year to mark the tercentenary of ‘Capability’ Brown’s birth and Shakespeare’s death 400 years ago, delightful books in a wide selection we’ve chosen to put on a Christmas list or to just treat yourself to a good winter’s read. Page 26

Box problems - now the solutions A recent survey showed that of all the enquiries the RHS Gardening Advice receives every year, box is always in the top few– evidence of how popular a plant it is – and the worry it causes. Page 42

"At Christmas, I no more desire a rose Than wish a snow in May's newfangled mirth; But like each thing that in season grows" - WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE Accounts Sam Bartholomew sam@countrygardener.co.uk Tel: 01823 430639 Distribution Pat Eade pateade@btinternet.com Tel: 01594 543790 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

Top S

Pre Christmas tickets offer savings for Powderham festival

t ory

Tickets are now on sale for the popular Toby Buckland GardenFest which bursts into life for two plant-packed days in the stunning location of Powderham Castle, near Exeter in Devon next April.

The event, which is in its fourth year, takes place at the start of the May Bank Holiday on Friday and Saturday, April 28th and 29th. Visitors buying tickets before Christmas can buy on-line for ÂŁ8.50p- a saving of ÂŁ4 per ticket.

Known for its friendly, inclusive atmosphere and beautiful setting, the Powderham garden festival is a garden party with celebrity speakers, more than 140 plant nurseries, arts and crafts, fabulous local food, live music and entertainment.

Toby Buckland said, “I’m thrilled to announce the dates for our fourth festival at Powderham and once again we have a fresh line-up of exhibitors and interactive displays, designed to inspire and entertain the region’s gardeners.

Toby Buckland: "Once again we have a fresh line up of exhibitors"

“We have even more special and unusual plants, as well as a new 'Garden Pest Clinic' where we will be showcasing up-to-the-minute, eco-friendly techniques for dealing with pests and diseases. This year we’re doing even more to celebrate the wealth of independent growers and makers with our new ‘Devon Made’ expo."

Tickets are available at www.tobygardenfest.co.uk

Info pack for garden clubs A special information pack is now available for Somerset garden clubs offering the chance of a perfect gardeners’ day out at the two Toby Garden Fests at Powderham and Forde Abbey next year.

The pack is aimed at providing gardening club members with incentives to organise outings to the popular Powderham event near Exeter on April 28th and 29th next year and the new autumn event at Forde Abbey near Chard on Saturday and Sunday September 16th and 17th.

BBC Gardeners' World Adam Frost and gardening author and broadcaster Pippa Greenwood head the high profile speakers at Powderham while BBC’s Charlie Dimmock and Christine Walkden will appear at Forde Abbey.

The pack has details of entry price discounts available for clubs, free coach parking, plant crèche arrangements and catering options and sale or return tickets.

This pack also includes full up the minute details of both events as well as posters and leaflets to download to display for club meetings. Tel: 01823 431767 or email alan@tobygardenfest.co.uk

FATHER CHRISTMAS V ISI TS WEST SOMERSET GARDEN CENTRE There’ll be a festive air at West Somerset Garden Centre at Minehead on Saturday 3rd December when Father Christmas pays a visit.

Father Christmas will be in his Grotto (in aid of local charities), there will be Christmas food and drink tasting, festive music, magic and Secret World, and much more, making the garden centre a fun place to visit. Gifts including lit animals, Christmas food and drink, and potted Christmas trees will be available.

The Christmas event will run from 10am-4pm. The garden centre is open 8am-5pm Monday to Saturday, and 10am-4pm Sunday.

West Somerset Garden Centre, Mart Road, Minehead, Somerset TA25 5BJ. Tel: 01643 703612. www.westsomersetgardencentre.co.uk 4

Country Gardener

651300 Bridgwater 01278 0127801278 651300 Bridgwater 651300 Main Road, Cannington, Road, Cannington, Mowers Road, Main Cannington, Mowers Main Bridgwater, Somerset TA5 2LD

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on Mowers, Mowers, RideRide on Mowers and PushPush Mowers Ride on Mowers and&Push Mowers Chainsaws, Hedgecutters & Brushcutters Shredders Chippers Chainsaws, Hedgecutters & Leaf Blowers, Rotavator, Stone Cutters, Chainsaws, Hedgecutters & Brushcutters Brushcutters Generators & Gardening Hand Tools.Cutters, Leaf Blowers, Rotavator, Stone Leaf Blowers, Rotavators, Stone Cutters, Generators & Gardening Hand Tools.

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Selection of Looking Good Children’s toys Rideshrubs. on tractors, plants- and

Selection of Looking Good mowers etc.

Children’s toys shrubs. ~ Ride on plants and tractors, mowers, etc.

MART ROAD, MINEHEAD, SOMERSET TA24 5BJ

Christmas

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Thursday 15th December - Food & Drink Tasting Day January - Seed Potatoes, Onion sets & Garlic Winter Flowering Shrubs Our Garden Café is serving Christmas Dinners in December - Booking Essential

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK MON-SAT 8AM-5PM SUN 10AM-4PM

Fence Construction Hedge Cutting 01278 653205

www.greenslades.biz GOLD MEDAL SHOWCASE GARDEN

Sportsfield info@greenslades.biz

Hard & Soft Landscaping

Saturday December 3rd - Christmas Event Food & Drink Tasting, Grotto, Magic & Music

01643 703612 Email: wsgc@btconnect.com

Maintenance Main Road, Cannington, CANNINGTON, BRIDGWATER, SOMERSET TA5 2LD Bridgwater. TA5 2LD

Tel: 01278 653205 www.greenslades.biz

MEDAL SHOWCASE CENTRE GARDEN BROWNE’SGOLDGARDEN Grass Cutting

www.westsomersetgardencentre.co.uk

Fence Construction

FOR A LARGE SELECTION OF SHRUBS, CANNINGTON, BRIDGWATER, SOMERSET TA5ROSES, 2LD CONIFERS, ORNAMENTAL TREES. Tel:FRUIT 01278AND 653205 www.greenslades.biz TERRACOTTA AND GLAZED POTS, FENCING, PAVING AND AGGREGATES PLUS ALL YOUR GARDENING SUNDRIES.

Mark Hinsley

MSc.Res.Man.(Arb), OND (Arb), F.Arbor.A

Arboricultural Consultants Ltd.

TREE ADVICE & REPORTING Established 1994

NATIONAL GARDEN GIFT TOKENS

We are a Dorset based company offering a friendly, professional tree consultancy service for all areas of the South.

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

Coffee shop open Tuesday-Sunday 10.30am-4pm

We specialise in:

■ Tree Condition Advice and Surveys

GLASTONBURY ROAD, WELLS. TEL: 01749 673050.

■ Tree Liability Assessments and Management Plans

SOUTH WEST ORCHID SOCIETY SHOW 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

■ Tree Preservation Order Advice ■ Planning Applications - Advice and Reports (to BS5837 standards)

Saturday 25th February 2017 10.30am - 4.00pm West Monkton Village Hall Nr Taunton TA2 8NE • Orchid displays & Orchids for sale

ALL ENQUIRIES WELCOME

01202 876177 www.treeadvice.info enquiries@treeadvice.info

• Refreshments

Admission £2 Info: 01278 455170 msaunders1@mail105.co.uk

www.countrygardener.co.uk

5

A SEASONAL GUEST AT KILVER COURT Father Christmas will be visiting Kilver Court’s annual Christmas Fair on Saturday 10th December. He will be in his special grotto in the gardens with his reindeer Rudolf, ready to meet and greet children and give each child a special Christmas gift. The cost will be £8 per child and free entry to the gardens for accompanying adults.

Held in Kilver Court’s Jardines Ballroom, the Christmas Fair will host some of the South West’s finest creators, makers, growers and producers who will be offering a vast selection of seasonal goodies.

The Christmas Food Festival will run from 10am till 3pm and the whole of Kilver Court will be open as usual throughout the day, giving visitors the chance to visit The Christmas Room in the Great House, shop over 50 designer brands and find the perfect last minute gift.

The Midsomer Norton and Radstock Silver Brass Band Academy will provide the musical accompaniment to the day by playing a songbook of traditional carols to get everyone into the Christmas spirit.

KIlver Court, Kilver St, Shepton Mallet BA4 5NF Tel : 01749 340410 www.kilvercourt.com

Bishop’s Palace offers free entry to children in Wells

Alan Power talks on the wonders of Stourhead’s gardens

Alan Power, the highly acclaimed head gardener and estate manager of the National Trust’s picturesque landscape garden at Stourhead, will talk about his life and work in January when he visits the gardening club at Enmore in January.

He is well known for his expertise and love of the world famous Wiltshire landscape garden that was designed in the 18th century and attracts thousands of visitors; he is passionate about historic gardens and their heritage. Alan is also becoming well known as a radio and TV broadcaster and was a regular presenter this year on BBC’s Gardeners’ World.

The evening, organised by the Enmore and District Gardening Club at the Enmore Memorial Hall, is on Tuesday 31st January, starting at 7.30pm. Visitors are very welcome and entrance is £3 on the door which includes coffee and biscuits. The hall is near Enmore Golf Club. Booking is advisable for the talk, and for further information contact Sally Tottle on 01278 671654.

In April Alan Power will be presenting a new four part series on BBC 4, British Gardens in Time, with other expert contributions from garden designer Chris Beardshaw and historian Andrea Wulf.

6

Country Gardener

In response to the devastating news about the fire at the new Bishop’s Barn playground, The Bishop’s Palace in Wells is offering free entry to all children living in Wells until the end of the year, so that they can enjoy the new Dragon’s Lair playground in the arboretum.

Chief executive Rosie Martin says: “We were so sad to see the destruction of the centrepiece of the wonderful new playground and really felt for the children of Wells who had been so excited about the play area. As we have a brand new children’s play area in the arboretum, we thought we should share it with the children of Wells at this time.”

All children under 18 will be offered free entry until the end of the year if they live in a BA5 postcode area. Accompanying adults should bring proof of address with them to the ticket office.

The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens, Wells, Somerset.

BA5 2PD Tel: 01749 988111. www.bishopspalace.org.uk

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.

On the main A38 between Taunton & Wellington www.willowbrooknurseryandgardencentre.co.uk

TELEPHONE 01823 461324

Exmoor Baskets and Hurdles are located on the DevonSomerset border in the heart of the West Country.

01398 323391 / 07980 759099

www.exmoorbasketsandhurdles.co.uk

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.

OPEN Mon-Sat 9.00am-5.30pm

Tel 01984 618267 www.triscombenurseries.co.uk info@triscombenurseries.co.uk West Bagborough, Nr Taunton, Somerset TA4 3HG between West Bagborough and Crowcombe (signposted off A358) For plants people...

Alpine Garden Society Plant Fair and Plant Show

Makers of good quality Willow hurdles and garden items.

Traditional hand made products using English willow locally grown from a renewable source.

Triscombe Nurseries

Saturday, 25 February 2017 - 10.00 am to 3.30 pm At Pershore College

For home-grown plants

Always something new and unusual Herbaceous perennials, shrubs and climbers Seasonal bedding and hanging baskets Tools, seeds and compost Glazed and frostproof terracotta pots

Specialist nurseries offering a wide range of early flowering bulbs & plants, competitive alpine show, gardening books, advice and refreshments.

Admission AGS Members: FREE Non-members: £3

National Garden Gift Vouchers On the A38 Wellington by-pass

www.chelstonnurseries.co.uk

Tel: 01823 662007

01386 554790 www.alpinegardensociety.net

NORTON GREEN FARM

GREENSHUTTERS

GARDEN CENTRE & NURSERY

OPEN THROUGH THE WINTER

NURSERIES & GARDEN CENTRE

■ Pots

& containers of all types and sizes ■ Unwins, Mr.Fothergill’s, ■ Seed potatoes due Jan ■ Calor gas, burning logs ■ Potatoes & free range Johnsons, Jekka’s and kindling sticks eggs Herbs & Sarah Raven ■ Christmas trees, house ■ Good choice of bird seed collections ■ Country Value seeds plants, cut flowers & feed and feeders ■ Garden tools & sundries all at only 99p/pk holly wreaths

National Garden Gift Vouchers Sold & Redeemed Norton Green Farm Nursery, Wells Road, Chilcompton, Nr Bath

Tel: 01761 232137 Email: nortongreenfarm@tiscali.co.uk

Open: Mon-Sat 9am-5.00pm Sun 10.30am-4.30pm

01823 390063 www.greenshutters.co.uk Fivehead, Taunton, Somerset, TA3 6PT on the A378 between Taunton and Langport

EVERGREENHEDGING.co.uk GREENSHUTTERS NURSERIES & GARDEN CENTRE

Garden & Estate Machinery SALES - SERVICE - REPAIRS

RIDE-ON MOWERS • LAWNMOWERS BRUSHCUTTERS • CHAINSAWS HEDGETRIMMERS • GENERATORS PRESSURE WASHERS & MUCH MORE

BANK STREET, WILLITON

TEL: 01984 632761

Specialists in Conifer and Laurel Hedging 01460 281265 www.countrygardener.co.uk

7

Are your plants ready for the WORST OF WINTER? As the temperatures fall and frosts start to bite, plants need protection. Helpfully there are different levels of hardiness to help you out with an action plan

Before the start of winter, check all garden structures and replace or re-attach loose panels, roofs, posts and fences.

Replace solid fences with ones that are 50 percent wind permeable to avoid gusting, turbulence and shaking.

One of the great preoccupations of gardeners is with the weather.

Plant windbreaks as cold and windy site will often require windbreaks of additional planting such as hedges. Strategic We gardeners keep a close eye on winter temperatures placing of temporary woven hurdles, netting or similar in particular, especially if we are concerned about the materials on deeply embedded stout posts can help in the hardiness of plants. short-term.

Cold, wet, windy winter weather can damage trees, shrubs Deal with drainage problems promptly, as wet soils can and garden structures such as trellis. Improving shelter, make young or shallow rooted trees more likely to uproot in staking plants, mulching, wrapping pots and careful the wind. matching of plants to places will help to prevent this kind of damage.

Avoid applications of nitrogen-rich fertilisers late in the Protective wrappings should be put in place at the first sign season, as they stimulate sappy growth. of frosts.

Soil exposure, particularly in the vegetable patch, can result in leaching of nutrients. Green manure, such as mustard, sown in September reduces this leaching.

Juvenile plants will retain nutrients until dug back into the soil in spring.

Mulching can reduce compaction and soil erosion that can commonly follow heavy rain.

Plants can be protected from cold, wet weather by wrapping with horticultural fleece.

Your garden is a microclimate in itself. You will have warm spots, at the base of a southfacing wall, and cold or wet spots on the north side of the house. Choose plants carefully for each of these positions. Site early-flowering Most ornamental pots are not designed plants such as magnolias and camellias so to stand in freezing temperatures. that they are not exposed to the morning sun, These banana plants have been under They need winter protection. Try to as rapid thawing of frozen buds can result in wrap then up in burlap in two layers if a protective wrapping of horticultural possible. Make it sure it’s tight blackening and bud drop. fleece since early November 8

Country Gardener

Keep containers in dry, sheltered areas, grouped together for mutual protection. Prevent roots freezing in containers by wrapping with bubble polythene or straw. Alternatively plunge (bury with the rim just showing) the pot into the ground.

Cannas, dahlias and pelargoniums (commonly known as geraniums) can be lifted and stored in a semi-dormant state over winter. Where lifting and storing are not necessary, then thick, dry mulch over the crown of non-woody plants may be all that is needed for winter protection.

Overwinter somewhere cool and frost-free gardeners are often blithely advised, as if such a place actually exists. Cool but frost-free is hard to come by, but there are some lucky gardeners who will have just such a place. A porch is ideal, just heated enough by the warmth of the house to keep away any frosts, but not so balmy that it will induce any unseasonal growth, likewise an unheated conservatory.

Wrapping shrubs Examples of shrubs that may need wrapping include Pittosporum tobira and Cestrum. In cold situations, borderline hardy plants such as Callistemon, Clerodendrum bungei, Clianthus puniceus and Pittosporum tenuifolium may also need protection. Figs are wrapped to protect the embryonic fruits even though the plant is hardy.

Smaller specimens can be protected by constructing a rigid frame or wigwam of bamboo canes around the plant, packing around with bracken or straw and covering with netting. In wet periods, temporary waterproof cover should be added, wrapping clear polythene over the whole structure to prevent it getting wet and rotting.

W hat is c o ld damage?

Often its not just the cold temperatu res w cause plant damag e. Ice can form with hich in plant cells or between cells an d often it is this w hich causes injury. The faster th e cooling the grea ter the damage caused when ice fo rms within cells an d thus the lower the chance the plant will surv ive when it thaws. Tender, typi cally tropical plan ts, have not evolved ways of av oiding this cell fre ezing process.

Hardy plants actu ally allow freezing between cells but after a certain point dehydration damage occurs.

Seriously hardy pl ants from alpine re gions are more able to tolerate ce ll dehydration as th ey shift water out of cells which prevents freezing.

Wrapping tree ferns Tree ferns in mild sheltered areas may be fine with a packing of straw over the crown and a polystyrene cap to keep off the rain, but in colder areas complete wrapping is recommended. The trunk is easily wrapped in fleece. The fronds should be tied upright with straw or bracken packing at the centre, and the whole bundle wrapped in a double layer of horticultural fleece. The root area is mulched with organic matter to protect the roots from frost.

How the plant hardiness ratings work The RHS has devised a hardiness ratings chart for plants that is temperature-based, with seven main categories: H1 HEATED GLASSHOUSE – WARM TEMPERATE Needs to be grown under glass or as a house plant all year or can be grown outdoors in summer throughout most of the UK while daytime temperatures are high enough to promote growth. Examples include most bedding plants such as Pelargonium and Solenostemon (coleus), Brugmansia and fruiting vegetables such as tomatoes and cucumbers.

H2 TENDER – COOL OR FROST-FREE GLASSHOUSE Tolerant of low temperatures, but will not survive being frozen. Except in frost-free areas or coastal extremities, requires glasshouse conditions in winter, but can be grown outdoors once risk of frost is over. Subtropical plants such as Agapetes ‘Ludgvan Cross’ (right) and Citrus x meyeri ‘Meyer’ (Meyer’s lemon), some succulents, annual bedding plants, and many spring-sown vegetables.

H3 HALF-HARDY – UNHEATED GLASSHOUSE/ MILD WINTER Hardy in coastal/mild areas, except in hard winters and at risk from sudden (early) frosts. May be hardy elsewhere with wall shelter or good microclimate. Likely to be damaged or

killed in cold winters, particularly with no snow cover or if potted. Can survive with artificial winter protection.

H4 HARDY - AVERAGE WINTER Hardy through most of the UK apart from inland valleys, at altitude and central/northerly locations. May suffer foliage damage and stem dieback in harsh winters in cold gardens.

Some normally hardy plants may die in long, wet winters in heavy or poorly drained soil. Plants in pots are more vulnerable. Examples include many herbaceous and woody plants, such as Lavandula x chaytoriae ‘Sawyers’ winter brassicas, leeks.

H5 HARDY COLD WINTER Hardy in most places throughout the UK even in severe winters. May not withstand open/exposed sites or central/ northern locations. Many evergreens suffer foliage damage, and plants in pots will be at increased risk. Examples include herbaceous and woody plants, such as Daphne x transatlantica Eternal Fragrance (‘Blafra’) and some brassicas.

H6 AND H7 refer to severe temperatures colder than -20 degrees C.

www.countrygardener.co.uk

9

HOW, WHEN AND WHERE to buy and tend your Christmas tree Choosing and buying your Christmas tree is a seasonal ritual and something to enjoy. But what should you buy and how much should you be paying?

Do you buy your tree on 1st December, or do you wait for Christmas Eve? Whatever your family tradition is, it’s worth spending some time planning your purchase and checking to see if it’s the right tree for the right space at the right price.

There are some tricks of the trade when you finally get round to making a decision.

Firstly, pick it up and drop it on its stump from a few inches above ground. If more than a few needles drop, it has not been freshly cut.

Don’t buy Norway spruces at the beginning of December: their needles drop early. But if you prefer to put up a tree closer to Christmas, a spruce should last the 12 days.

If you want an early tree, buy a Nordman fir. The needles won’t drop. They cost more because they take about seven years to grow compared to five for a Norway spruce.

Buy from a local grower if you can. Go to the British Christmas Tree Growers Association website, bctga.co.uk, and check out members locally.

The millions of Christmas trees now sold in the UK spark an annual debate about sustainability. Surely trees should not be cut down, argues the green conscience. Surely trees are a carbon sink, an important part of the landscape and a valuable habitat for wildlife? So, in this season of consumption, what are the best Christmas tree options?

The first thing to remember is that, rather than being hewn from virgin forest, Christmas trees are a crop like any other, albeit one with long rotation time. It is also a biodegradable and recyclable product that enables farmers to make a profit from low-grade land.

Norway spruce was planted in Victorian times to meet popular demand and was soon considered the traditional tree.

Unfortunately, its needles are sharp and prone to dropping.

Care and conditioning Store the tree in a bucket of water somewhere shaded and cool, like a shed or garage, until you are ready to bring it indoors. Once inside, cut a 1in slice off the stump and place it in water. Treat it rather as you would a bunch of flowers – position it somewhere cool, out of draughts and away from radiators. Christmas trees can drink up to three pints of water per day, especially in a warm room so check and top up as required.

Pot-grown trees and repurposed garden plants should also be kept moist and not allowed to overheat.

Reuse, recycle Many councils, community groups and retailers offer tree recycling services. Check local details or see recyclenow. com/ what-to-do-with/christmas-trees. Alternatively, chip it and use it in the garden, or re-erect it and decorate with apples, nuts and fat-balls as a New Year gift for the birds.

Click and collect tree service at Willowbrook Willowbrook Nursery and Garden Centre is a great place to pick up some Christmas gifts. This year their Christmas

A

vonfield Gardens Marsh Road, Hilperton Wiltshire BA14 7PL Tel 01225 571331

We offer a wide range of high quality trees, shrubs, conifers, alpines and herbacious perennials, complemented by a range of key gardening products such as composts, fertalisers, tools, seeds terracotta and glazed pots and garden sundries.

The centre prides itself on excellent levels of service, horticultural advice and a clear no-nonsense, no-gimmicks approach.

Open Mon-Sat 9am-5.30pm Sun 10am-4pm

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

J. ALEX BROWN All your hardware needs 10

Country Gardener

30 Silver Street, Bradford on Avon BA15 1JX 01225 862236

trees can be viewed online and ordered using their ‘Click & Collect’ service. They also have a well-stocked shop that has many ideas for the garden and a great range of plants which they will gift-wrap for you free of charge.

The wine shop ‘Winesolution’ has moved into its new location .The café and tea-room will be serving Christmas meals from 1st December – ideal for a small gathering.

The friendly and helpful staff looks forward to seeing you soon. Willowbrooke is on the A38 between Taunton and Wellington or at www.willowbrookgardencentre.co.uk.

Tree care advice from Monkton Elm Monkton Elm Garden Centre just outside Taunton is a popular spot for buying Christmas trees and they have come up with some advice on looking after your tree.

• Buy a tree that doesn’t drop an excessive amount of needles when banged on the ground.

• Cut off an inch from the base of the trunk to assist water uptake, plunge it into a bucket of water and leave somewhere cool until needed, leaving any netting on.

• Use a stand that holds plenty of water. Never place your tree near a source of heat - it will dry out, causing needle drop.

• Once the tree is erected remove netting, fill the water reservoir and get decorating. Check the water level daily, topping up if necessary.

Monkton Elm Garden Centre West Monkton, Taunton TA2 8QN. Tel: 01823 412381

www.countrygardener.co.uk

11

School life in the gardening lane Teenage life is not all computer games and mobile phones as Reuben Wilcocks, head of horticulture at Brymore Academy’ in Cannington reveals when he considers how his pupils are too busy harvesting crops and getting next year’s soil ready “I’m home mum,” shouted Harry as he burst through the door, some time after 5pm.

He dumped a heavy black bin bag on the floor.

This was not full of sports clothes ready for washing but a much more healthy offering. As his mother peered inside she could see why Harry was so delighted.

This was his crop of potatoes from his plot in the walled garden. A plot, about seven feet by 14 feet, was dug over and planted in early spring and now here was the harvest, the reward for all that hard work.

Fellow Brymore students Tom, Mikey and Will have also been digging up their potatoes and Oliver, who won the Growers Cup at the summer swimming gala, has been harvesting various crops since June.

The pleasure for these teenagers is evident and the rewards are tasty.

Another day I followed a trail of splashes of manure up through the school.

How many schools do you find the evidence of cattle in the middle of the grounds, unless a local farmer has

Thomas Helps 12

allowed his property to range free? Well that does happen sometimes in this establishment if one of the lads who are looking after the stock that week forget that cattle can have a very determined attitude to do things their way.

Yet this is not a stray cow, but the squeak of a wheelbarrow which gives the culprit away.

One of the lads with a new plot has been down to the farm and enthusiastically attacked the heap of animal manure which stands at the side of the farmyard and has a load ready to spread on his cleared land. I do hope it is well rotted!

Charlie has been clearing his plot along with other enthusiastic lads and planning what to put into the cultivated soil. I forgot to mention some of them use the Mantis rotorvator to take some of the back ache out of the preparation.

It’s a useful, light, effective tool once the crust has been broken; although it really does not like attacking hard soil, it does not have the weight to dig in. So plots cleared, manure applied, what should be planted?

With grandad's or parents' help lads have onion sets

Oliver Spence with his basket of leeks and carrots

Country Gardener

Harry Meade with potatoes galore

Mikey and Will and William Holter-Hovind proudly showing off pink fir apple salad potatoes

to plant, along with garlic cloves and Aquadulce Broad beans to put into pots in the greenhouse. It's no good to put broad bean seeds straight into the plots in the walled garden, if the mice don't get the seeds then the squirrels dig them up! We have tried all sorts of remedies but we have found that pre-germination of the beans in pots in the greenhouse, covered with fleece seems to thwart most of the pests. However, it's very important to harden them off before they are planted out, so that the young plants are not checked by the cooler outside temperatures.

Charlie is less sure about his choices and the busy-ness of other activities mean that his plot lies unplanted at the moment. Sometimes, to leave a plot unplanted for a while allows the soil to recover but weeds are never slow to take up the opportunity of unchecked growth.

That is why our grandfathers used to plant green manures, crops such as mustard, rape or clover, which are all nitrogen fixing crops and so cause the soil to become more fertile because bacteria (rhizobium) which live on the roots of those plants take free nitrogen and convert it into nitrates which the plants can use.

The symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria invade the root hairs of host plants, where they multiply and stimulate formation of root nodules, enlargements of plant cells.

Within the nodules the bacteria convert free nitrogen to ammonia, which the host plant utilizes for its development.

To ensure sufficient nodule formation and optimum growth of legumes (e.g., alfalfa, beans, clovers, peas, soybeans), seeds are often inoculated with commercial cultures of appropriate Rhizobium species, especially in soils poor or lacking in the required bacterium.

Another squeak, squeak (I must invest in some oil!) draws my attention to another lad, perspiration running in beadlets down the side of his grubby face, as he pushes a barrow load of deep brown organic matter up to his plot from the bottom woods.

He has been raiding our leaf mould pile!

Last year the boys enthusiastically collected up the leaves from under the numerous trees around the grounds and piled them up, the older pupils using 'Doris', our affectionately named compact tractor, to help transport them.

They have been turned once during the year and the microbes have done their job and now we have a heap of decomposed tree leaves to spread on the plots. In garden duties, which every lad in years seven and eight help out with for one hour, once a fortnight, we have been gradually emptying the heap and piling it in the walled garden for use as a mulch. This, of course, will benefit the soil structure.

The increase of organic matter encourages worms and other decomposers to work hard in the soil, the structure becomes more open and free draining and increased air content causes healthy plant roots and more productive crops. Mulches also discourage weeds and may add nutrient to the soil too.

We use another mulch on the demonstration plots.

Horticultural fabric (Mypex, a woven plastic material) which can be planted through and then hidden by leaf mould.

This stops our crops being completely swamped by weeds and encourages healthy growth. It also avoids the use of hoes, wielded by less than enthusiastic pupils ("Weeding is the most boring job sir!") who often do more damage than help, a trail of chopped plants would be evidence of a novice hoe handler! The fabric can be used over several seasons and is secured by long plastic barbed nails.

The Brymore motto is "Resilience, Resourcefulness and Responsibility" and this can be seen in bucket loads (or should that be wheelbarrows full?) as our lads look after their plots, battling the elements, waiting in wellies and raincoat at 1pm to go up to their plot and 'check it' during their lunch hour.

Computer games are too passĂŠ for these lads, they need to be outside battling the elements, experiencing nature first hand and managing their time, resources and energy.

Do you know someone who would appreciate school days filled with the unexpected, learning by doing and being stretched to the limit?

Remember, it's not just about the practical, but this is a coat hook to hang the theory upon.

Brymore Academy, Cannington, Bridgwater, Somerset TA5 2NB. Tel: 01278 652369 www.brymoreacademy.co.uk

www.countrygardener.co.uk

13

An opportunity

to grasp

Retirement offers opportunities to so more things and get involved in new projects but it's also a time when planning for the future takes centre stage Retirement can be a worrying mixture of the good news and the bad news. There’s time to do more things, to get involved in projects there just wasn’t time for previously. But it's also a time to start planning both financially and emotionally about the future. One of the hardest decisions many have to make is whether we’d be safer, happier and healthier living in one of the region’s many care homes.

Giving up the home and garden we may have spent years creating and nurturing is fraught with concerns. Will we lose our independence and contact with the outside world? Will our health deteriorate quickly once we’ve given up a more active lifestyle, making it difficult to continue gardening?

Financial planning is key to this but it’s also finding a new home which allows a genuine chance to continue with much loved hobbies such as gardening. Last year research by the University of Exeter Medical School proved a link between gardening and green spaces with improved mental health and wellbeing – so much so that some doctors are now actively encouraging their patients to get outside and get active.

It’s a message that isn’t lost on those who run our many care homes keen to offer their residents a happy place to live and the opportunity to continue pursuing activities and hobbies that have been so much a part of their lives. Many are even creating new outdoor spaces, ensuring that giving up your home doesn’t have to mean giving up gardening.

The choices are still wide. Increasingly there is help available for those who are just not ready to move out of their family home and who are looking for practical help, support and financial assistance which means they can stay in their home and enjoy their garden for longer.

CPRE offers new challenge with volunteer roles Are you looking for a new challenge in retirement? For 90 years, the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) has been standing up for the countryside. Early campaigning successes: the establishment of National Parks and Green Belts in the mid-20th century, helped to shape the countryside we all cherish today. Nowadays they campaign on a range of issues from rural affordable housing to light pollution and litter and they continue to fight development which unnecessarily damages our precious countryside.

CPRE has a branch in every county run largely by volunteers who care about their local landscapes, villages and rural communities. CPRE needs people in many different roles. You could get involved in local planning issues or help to develop the future of the charity as a committee member. There are plenty of “hands-on” roles too, like running stands at local 14

fairs, giving talks, organising events, taking photographs or helping with secretarial work.

Being part of a team, developing skills, and knowing that you're helping protect our beautiful countryside – these are just three brilliant reasons to volunteer with CPRE. Even if you cannot spare your time, you can still make a difference to the countryside by becoming a member. To find out more, visit www.cpre.org.uk contact admin@cpresomerset.org.uk or call 0845 269 4206 and they will put you in touch with your local branch.

It’s the care that counts…

Making decisions regarding care can be a difficult process.

Everyone is different, and arranging care to suit the needs of yourself or a loved one can sometimes be a challenge.

However, there are companies out there that can make life easier, with care and support tailored specifically to you.

As a not-for-profit charity, Care South’s focus is not on targets or sales, but a genuine dedication to supporting people in the community who need help to get the best out of life, by offering compassionate care at a realistic cost.

Care South is a leading provider of quality nursing, residential and home care across the south of England, with homes in Dorset, West Sussex, North Devon and Somerset, alongside home care services in Somerset and Dorset.

To find out more, visit www.care-south.co.uk or call them on 01202 712 400.

HELP PROTECT THE COUNTRYSIDE YOU LOVE £3 A MONTH We all need the countryside. Whether it’s for fresh air, delicious local produce, beautiful landscapes or vibrant towns and villages, the countryside is invaluable. It is also under increasing pressure from development.

By joining CPRE, you can help ensure that a beautiful and living countryside thrives for generations to come. You can join for as little as £3 a month. As a member, you'll receive our regular Countryside Voice magazine, discounted entry to around 200 houses and gardens around England – and a 10% discount at Cotswold Outdoor.

JOIN US

0845 269 4206 www.cpre.org.uk

Registered charity no: 1089685

Country Gardener

Registered Charity No. 1014697

Hatch Beauchamp | Taunton | TA3 6SG

Beauchamp House Nursing Home

Thinking of moving into a care home – or just needing a little extra help at home?

We’re here to help

is a Care South Country House home, offering the highest quality nursing care for all levels of need, from short term respite to high dependency and palliative care, at a realistic cost.

As a leading provider of residential and home care across Dorset, we offer compassionate residential, nursing, dementia and home care at a realistic cost.

Beauchamp House has been tastefully refurbished

by Care South in recent years, to provide quality care in a home-from-home atmosphere.

Whether you’re looking for care in your own home, a short respite stay or a new home, we offer a warm welcome, comfort and peace of mind.

To request a brochure, arrange a visit or find out more,

To request a brochure, arrange a visit or find out more, contact

contact www.care-south.co.uk or call Beauchamp House on

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Storrington | West Sussex | RH20 4DA

A beautiful historic home providing all your care needs Sussexdown offers the highest quality nursing, residential, respite and dementia care. With its beautiful landscaped gardens and comfortable environment, Sussexdown delivers innovative care in a home-from-home atmosphere.

To request a brochure, arrange a visit or find out more, contact www.care-south.co.uk or call Sussexdown on

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Within our portfolio of residential care and nursing homes across the south of England, you will find two of our beautiful Care South

Country House care homes nestled in the north Devon countryside.

We offer compassionate care, fine dining and comfortable accommodation, set within beautifully landscaped gardens.

To request a brochure, arrange a visit or find out more, contact

www.care-south.co.uk

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Indispensible

F UNGI

The Forestry Commission is campaigning this autumn to safeguard extraordinary organisms which are neither plants, nor animals yet some of which are indispensable partners for many plants Ask a gardener what he or she thinks about fungi and you might get a short or even rude answer. You’ll probably get a reference to Armillaria or honey fungus that can kill mature trees outright.

But fungi, once classified wrongly as plants, are known to have a make up which is more closely associated to animals than plants and many can play a crucial role in ecosystems.

This autumn, the Forestry Commission is launching a new campaign to highlight the importance of fungi, and to appeal to people to support a ‘no-picking’ code Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

In fact fungi are in a kingdom all of their own. There are at least 70,000 species world wide, approximately 12,000 in the UK and 2,700 in the New Forest in Hampshire. Generally they are poorly known.

Most fungi have the same basic structure - thread like hyphae, which form a web or mycelium - these webs are present in the soil and in the trees around us all the time - then the fruiting body (the ‘mushroom’ or ‘toadstool’) - which is the bit we see - when conditions are right. Autumn is usually the time to see the fruiting bodies, when a mixture of wet but mild weather will provide ideal conditions.

The Forestry Commission England is encouraging visitors to document their autumn discoveries by posting

images of autumnal colour on social media channels using the hashtag #autumnleafwatch.

WHAT DO FUNGI DO? Fungi cannot make their own food using energy from sunlight, but grow by absorbing food and water from their surroundings – most importantly from living and dead plants and animals.

They are nature’s recyclers - without saprophytic fungi the world would be covered in dead plants and animals.

Many fungi live with trees and other plants. This is known as a mycorhizal association (from the Greek myco – fungus, rhiza – root). The fungi help the plant take up more nutrients by increasing the effective surface area of the roots, and in turn take some sugars from the plant.

This relationship is common in the woodland fungi such as the amanitas, russulas, boletus and lactarius. Certain species will only grow with certain trees (a useful help in identifying the fungi).

Trees certainly grow less well without fungi.

CONSERVATION OF FUNGI There is conflicting opinion as to whether picking has a detrimental impact on the fungi. There is not yet a nationally agreed scientific view as to what is the right answer.

However, we do know that intensive

Fungi are a corn er and soil ecosyste stone of woodland m overlooked, as so s. Yet they are often carries on unseen much fungal activity beneath the surfa of the soil ce

harvesting of fruits of other wild species, such as seed-bearing plants, can over long periods have a negative impact on their populations.

Due to the growing concern from conservationists and very real fears from members of the community in the New Forest about the wide-scale harvesting of fungi, the Forestry Commission feels it necessary to adopt a precautionary approach and can no longer support fungi picking on any scale.

Building good soil begins with fungal activity and many diseases are both caused and solved by fungi. Some plants are so dependent on fungi that they can’t survive without them. This relationship can be at the root zone or in the leaves. It is now known that some fir trees have fungi that activate when the needle is attacked. This in essence is the immune system and adapts in areas where the tree is unable to adapt. Fungi should be encouraged where the soil is cultivated using vegan organic methods.

It is also suspected that the decline in forest and farm soils is related to fungi diversity loss.

How do fungi feed?

Fungi cannot make their own food from sunlight, water and carbon dioxide as plants do in the process known as photosynthesis. This is because they lack the green pigment known as chlorophyll which plants use to capture light energy. So like animals they must obtain their food from other organisms. They do this in three ways. They may break down or rot dead plants and animals. Organisms which obtain their food this way are known as ‘ saprophytes’.

Alternatively they may feed directly off living plants and animals as parasites. A third group is associated with the roots of plants which is known as mycorrhizae. www.countrygardener.co.uk

17

‘Who said there is nothing to do in winter!’

Gill Heavens rejects the idea that winter is the time when gardening jobs stop and urges us all to enjoy the invigorating air with some important tasks If I had a pound for every time someone asked “What do you all winter?” I would be a very rich gardener. However, I can understand that to the uninitiated this might appear the case.

If you are one of these misguided folk, allow me to enlighten you.

It is true that the prospect of even stepping out into your garden in winter can be daunting. It is all too easy to hunker down and not emerge until spring. But, dressed appropriately, there is nothing like working in the great outdoors at 18

Country Gardener

this time of year. Here are some of the tasks you should be tackling on these short days, work that body and earn some cake!

It is the time for winter pruning. This includes apples and pears, late flowering clematis and, later in the season, roses. It is also a good time for general tree overhauls, check for dead and dying branches and remove, inspect ties and stakes and loosen or secure as appropriate.

This is also the time to get in the experts.

Reputable tree surgeons will make light of any major works. Don’t forget to ask to keep the wood chippings, as this will make a valuable mulch.

Regularly check any over-wintering bulbs and tubers, such as dahlias and begonias. Do

not allow them to either dry out completely or become too wet; you do not want to be greeted with either a dry husk or a soggy mess in the spring. Dampen down occasionally when necessary but do not over water.

Propagation does not come to a halt at this time of year.

Winter is the golden age for root cuttings. This method is suitable for many herbaceous plants with fleshy roots such as the sea holly, cat mint, Oriental poppy and acanthus.

Hardwood cuttings of deciduous shrubs can also be taken now, including viburnums, cornus and philadelphus. All you need is a sharp knife and a little patience!

Winter is the season to study the structure of your plot.

The bones of your garden have been exposed and it is much easier to envisage the big picture. New paths can be laid and borders created or extended. You can also repair fences, trellises and arbours whilst there is still room to tiptoe before the tulips and other bulbs emerge.

Unless the ground is frozen, or there is inclement weather forecast, these months are when to plant new shrubs and trees. The most cost effective method is to use bare rooted specimens. Unsurprisingly these are bought as dormant plant with naked roots! Roses, fruit trees, hedging and some perennials can all be purchased this way. It is important to plant these as soon as possible after they arrive. If this is not feasible then temporarily heel-in them into to a corner somewhere until needed.

You can continue to tidy borders and mulch them with garden compost or wood chip (thanks, tree surgeons!). It is preferable to leave some of the herbaceous skeletons.

Some will offer food to the birds, give refuge to wildlife or perhaps provide one of those allusive frosted panoramas that I hear so much about but seldom see in this part of the country.

Of course if the garden is three feet under snow we are severely limited as to what we can do outside. But do not fear, no snuggling up on the sofa yet, there is plenty we can do indoors. This is the perfect opportunity to clean, oil and sharpen your tools. Put on the radio and work your way through shears, secateurs, pruners and knives. You will be thankful come spring.

Make sure all your machinery is in good working order, and I’m not talking about your Italian expresso maker. It is the ideal chance to service your power tools or, if like myself you are a dunce in the mechanical department, send them to a person who can. When you discover your lawnmower won’t work just before you are about to make the first cut of the season, rest assured you will be in a long queue to get it fixed.

If you are lucky enough to have a greenhouse, then give it a thorough clean. Sort pots, wash them if you are that way inclined, stock up on compost and labels and sharpen your pencil! Now is the chance to ready yourself for the onslaught of spring.

It is the season for planning, which is one of my favourite occupations. Write lists, look at last year’s photos (you did remember to take some didn’t you?) and make decisions on what to change, keep the same or increase. Research, read, visit other gardens; pump up your enthusiasm tyre. This

is the time of year when the potential is palpable, before bubbles have been burst.

As you can see, whilst much in the garden is asleep, you can get a multitude of jobs done. I’m exhausted just thinking about it. It is a very rewarding time to garden, the brisk air is invigorating, the physical work strengthening; both your mind and your body will thank you. So when someone says to you, “but surely there is nothing to do in the garden in winter” you now know differently. I will leave it up to you to educate them.

Happy winter to you all!

Pruning shrubs, is one of many tasks for when the garden is asleep

www.countrygardener.co.uk

19

SNOWDROPS AND WINTER WALKS to look forward to

It may seem a long way ahead but it's nice now to plan ahead for the chance to get out and about to see carpets of snowdrops in glorious locations Joseph at the temple is commemorated), Mary’s taper, snow piercer, February fairmaids and Dingle-dangle.

Getting out to find these delicate but sturdy little flowers that look so spectacular en masse is worth the effort after the long months of winter. Going for a brisk walk on a crisp winter’s day makes us feel so much better for the fresh air and exercise – and with a well deserved hot drink or meal at the end of it.

See the changes in the landscape as you walk in the countryside, in woodlands, arboretums and great gardens that have nurtured their carpets of snowdrops. From National Trust properties with acres of space to explore,

There are few things more heartening than the sight of drifts of snowdrops lying under great trees as the days lengthen in February. Rightly called a harbinger of spring, the snowdrops that can start flowering in the depths of winter are a sign that the days are really getting brighter and spring is round the corner.

The Latin name for the snowdrop, Galanthus, means milk flower, as a snowdrop plant may be said to look like three drops of milk hanging from a stem. In centuries gone by they had a variety of common names including Candlemas bells (for the feast of Candlemas which falls on 2nd February when the presentation of Jesus by Mary and

Cerney House Gardens A Romantic English Garden in the UK Cotswolds 46 acres of Cotswold parkland Romantic secret garden

winter walks

01647 433306 nationaltrust.org.uk/castle-drogo

20

© National Trust Images. Registered Charity Number 205846.

The Castle Drogo garden and Teign Gorge are perfect for a winter stroll followed by something yummy from the café.

* Wildlife and woodland walks * Plants for sale * A large variety of snowdrops and hellebores * Refreshments available at the old Bothy Open from Saturday 28th January 10-5pm Admission: £5 adults, £1 children

Telephone 01285 831300 www.cerneygardens.com Cerney House Gardens, The Garden House, North Cerney, Cirencester, Gloucestershire GL7 7BX

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to private gardens that only open at this time of year for their snowdrop display, there’s a huge variety of places to choose from.

So here is a selection of picturesque places to walk in and admire carpets of snowdrops in their annual display.

Shaftesbury Snowdrop Festival – now firmly on the UK’s snowdrop events calendar When Pam Cruickshank suggested planting thousands of snowdrops throughout Shaftesbury in 2012 to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, she had no idea what she had started.

Over the intervening five years Pam, her co-volunteers and more than 1,000 people, have planted over 200,000 common snowdrops for everyone to enjoy, free of charge and created a unique and eclectic winter festival. Along the way, the Shaftesbury team have learned about the diverse and beautiful cultivars which make unusual snowdrops amongst the most sought after plants in the UK. Shaftesbury is now host to an annual snowdrop study, sale and social day where new snowdrop lovers mix with experienced ‘Galanthophiles’ from across Europe. They come to see, learn about, and buy this beautiful, tenacious winter flower that delights us in the darkest days of winter.

In 2016, the week-long display of rare snowdrops in Shaftesbury was described as “probably the best display

of snowdrops in the country”. A warm welcome awaits everyone visiting Shaftesbury throughout Snowdrop Season and the Snowdrop Festival which in 2017 runs from Saturday 11th to Sunday 18th February.

Find all the details at www.shaftesburysnowdrops.org and follow the links. Email: info@shaftesburysnowdrops.org or call 01747 300174. Shaftesbury Snowdrops, Swans Trust (Shaftesbury) Ltd, Swans Yard, Shaftesbury SP7 8JQ.

Winter wonderland walks at Welford Now is the time to plan your February outing, arrange to meet friends and see the spectacular carpets of snowdrops on the banks of the River Lambourn, where Galanthus nivalis cover a five acre beech wood. There are good paths to the woods through natural water meadows and a wide variety of willow, Cornus, and bird life. The new pathless woodland area offers children a space to explore and make camps. In the traditional English garden adjacent to the Queen Anne house (1703) is a collection of Galanthus species which share their bed with 85 peonies. The estate has been in the family since 1618; it is only open to the public during February with filming commitments during the summer months. www.welfordpark.co.uk

See special double snowdrops at Evenley Wood Visit Evenley Wood Garden between 4th and 28th February for Snowdrop Days, when more than 80 varieties come

Winter Days Out at The Bishop's Palace Join us this Winter for: • Wreath Making Workshops 16th & 17th December • Winter Walks • Free daily tours of Gardens & Palace • New Anthony Butterfield Exhibition • Stunning Snowdrops • Open until 22nd Dec and re-opens 7th Jan See our What's On Calendar for full details www.bishopspalace.org.uk/whatson

T 01749 988111 www.bishopspalace.org.uk www.countrygardener.co.uk

21

alive throughout this outstanding 60-acre woodland haven.

Among these is Galanthus ‘Evenley Double’, a special snowdrop which was developed and propagated on site, as well as ‘Hill Poe’ and ‘Lady Beatrix Stanley’. The garden’s gates will be open seven days a week between 11am-4pm, and a special café is available at weekends. Admission: adults £5, children 12-17 years old £1, children under 12 Free. Group tours are available by appointment. For more information, visit www.evenleywoodgarden.co.uk or telephone 07776 307849.

Marvel at the great snowdrop collection at Colesbourne Park The snowdrop collection at Colesbourne Park was started with the magnificent Galanthus elwesii found in 1874 near Ephesus in Asia Minor by pioneering plant collector Henry John Elwes FRS. Colesbourne Park, a plantsman’s paradise, is the acknowledged home of snowdrops in Great Britain and this season’s display promises to be the most spectacular to date.

New areas of the garden have been developed and extended by Sir Henry Elwes and his wife Carolyn and there are now around 350 different named snowdrop varieties, in both large drifts of bright snowy white flowers and in smaller named groups, which allow visitors to appreciate the different forms.

Visitors can walk beside the beguiling blue lake and along the woodland paths of the ten-acre grounds to see the snowdrops and planting schemes of winter and spring bulbs: aconites, cyclamen, iris, miniature daffodils,

snowflakes and hellebores, as well as winter flowering shrubs, which complement the snowdrops.

The gardens are open to the public from 1pm (last entry 4.30pm) on Saturdays and Sundays from 4th February to 5th March. Teas are available and there are plant sales too.

Also open on weekday mornings and afternoons in February for pre-booked guided tours of the gardens including refreshments and a talk.

Colesbourne Park is easy to find, halfway between Cheltenham and Cirencester on the A435. It’s a perfect addition to a visit to the Cotswolds and is just ten minutes from junction 11A of the M5 and 25 minutes from junction 15 of the M4. For more information or to book a guided tour call 01242 870264, email info@colesbournegardens. org.uk or go to the website www.colesbournegardens.org.uk.

Cerney House Gardens Winter Snowdrop and Hellebore Trail Cerney House gardens is a romantic English garden for all seasons: beautiful on a sunny day with the scent of roses filling the air and magical on a frosty winter's day.

They open their doors again at the end of January for the arrival of their fabulous winter display of snowdrops and hellebores. There is a snowdrop trail winding through the woodland with over 150 different appearing amongst swathes of pink and purple Hellebores. Cerney House’s charm is in its apparent informality and tranquillity, which is heightened at the beginning of a busy gardening year.

Celebrate Christmas at Batsford... with magical winter walks, festive food, unique gifts, decorations, hand-made wreaths and our huge range of Norway and Nordmann Spruce Christmas trees.

Open every day except Christmas Day.

Snowdrop Days Featuring over 80 varieties across 60 magnificent acres 4th - 28th February Café open at weekends 11am – 4pm

Visit www.batsarb.co.uk for details on our Christmas events BATSFORD ARBORETUM AND GARDEN CENTRE Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire GL56 9AD.

www.evenleywoodgarden.co.uk

Tel: 01386 701441 E: arboretum@batsfordfoundation.co.uk www.batsarb.co.uk

Email: info@evenleywoodgarden.co.uk Tel: 07776 307849 22

Country Gardener

BatsfordArboretum

@BatsfordA

Cerney House Gardens North Cerney Cirencester GL7 7BX. Telephone: 01285831300.

Email: janet@cerneygardens.com Open from Saturday 28th January 2017 10am-5pm.

For more details:www.cerneygardens.com

Snowdrop delight at Bishop’s Palace, Wells February has become a real focus for visitors to The Bishop's Palace and accompanying Bishop’s House at Wells adjacent to Wells Cathedral.

Snowdrops throughout the garden and alongside the moat are a delight in the first few weeks of the year and attract a growing number of snowdrop lovers.

From early February there is a succession of snowdrops, primroses, bluebells, violets and other wild flowers. The arboretum was designed by Sir Harold Hillier for Bishop Bickersteth and created in 1977 in commemoration of the Queen’s 25th Jubilee. Since 2004 the arboretum has been especially developed for wild flowers and of course snowdrops Bishop’s Palace Wells ,Market Place Hotel, Market Pl, Wells BA5 2PD Tel:01749 988111

Wander through drifts of Snowdrops at Batsford Arboretum While Batsford Arboretum may be famous for its

WELFORD PARK

Welford, Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 8HU 01488 608691 www.welfordpark.co.uk

The grounds are open to view the snowdrops from

Wednesday 1st February 2017 to Sunday 5th March 2017 (Closed every Monday and Tuesday)

Plant Fair Thursday 23rd February 2017 (normal admission charge applies) Gates open at 11.00am last admission to the grounds 4.00pm Adults £6, Concessions £5, Children 4-16 £2, under 4 years free Come and enjoy our carpets of snowdrops, old Laundry Tearooms and Gift Shop

Snowdrops at Colesbourne Park ‘England’s greatest snowdrop garden’

A plantsman’s paradise in the heart of the Cotswolds and home to 350 named varieties.

Open to visitors during the February display of these popular flowers. Coaches are welcome by appointment on weekdays for guided tours and on weekends by appointment only. (No guided tours at weekends.)

For more information please Telephone: 01242 870264 Colesbourne Park is on the Email: info@colesbournegardens.org.uk A435 halfway between Cheltenham and Cirencester.

Or see our website: www.colesbourne gardens.org.uk

February snowdrops at the Bishop’s Palace

spectacular autumn colour, there’s plenty to enjoy in the depths of winter and early spring too. Wrap up warm and meander along paths beside frozen streams and ponds and take in the views across the stunning Cotswold countryside.

During February, the arboretum is alive with drifts of beautiful snowdrops, plus aconites, crocuses and hellebores.

Enjoy warming food in the Garden Terrace Café, a whole host of tempting plants and garden sundries in the garden centre and browse the wide range of unique gifts.

Open Monday-Saturday from 9am to 5pm, 10am to 5pm on Sundays.

Batsford Arboretum & Garden Centre, Batsford, Moretonin-Marsh, Glos, GL56 9AD. Tel 01386 701441. Email arboretum@batsfordfoundation.co.uk Visit www.batsarb.co.uk

Wonderful Winter walks at Castle Drogo Wrap up warm and take a winter walk at Drogo. There are miles of footpaths through the Teign Gorge as well as the garden and grounds to explore. Whether you are after a gentle stroll to take in the views or a peaceful walk to explore the ancient woodlands of Fingle woods you'll find there's a walk to suit everyone. You then have the perfect excuse to refuel with a hearty lunch or a delicious slice of cake in the Drogo café. The café, shop, garden and estate are open daily 11am-4pm (closed 24th-26th December). For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/castle-drogo or ring 01647 433306.

Shaftesbury Snowdrops Study, Sale and Social Day

February 11th 2017 10am- 3.30pm Details of speakers & tickets available from www.shaftesburysnowdrops.org Tickets for the sale of rare Snowdrops at 1pm are also available.

info@shaftesburysnowdrops.org or 01747 300174

www.countrygardener.co.uk

Image for 2017 is ‘Welcome Spring’ by Jackie Williams

23

Christmas gardening BOOKS TO ENJOY Compiled by Vivienne Lewis There have been some lovely books published this year to mark the tercentenary of ‘Capability’ Brown’s birth and Shakespeare’s death 400 years ago, delightful books in a wide selection we’ve chosen to put on a Christmas list or to just treat yourself to a good winter’s read.

Shakespeare’s Gardens by Jackie Bennett

Published in association with the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the Bard’s death this is a beautifully illustrated chronological journey through the gardens in Shakespeare’s home town, Stratford-upon-Avon, looking at the gardens that he owned as well as those he might have known in Warwickshire, London and elsewhere.

There’s splendid new photography by distinguished photographer Andrew Lawson, and masses of examples of Shakespeare’s knowledge of plants and of gardening.

Published by Francis Lincoln, hardback £25 www.franceslincoln.com

Moving Heaven and Earth: Capability Brown’s Gift of Landscape by Steffie Shields Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown (1716-1783) was a polymath – a landscape architect who also designed buildings, an engineer and an artist, a gardener and a businessman.

Steffie Shields explores his legacy and particularly his pioneering work with water in the landscape. She evaluates the rise of the English landscape garden, recognised as one of our great contributions to artistic design, and the book can be used as a comprehensive guide for tours and visits to the gardens that still bear his hallmarks. More than 370 colour photographs, most of them taken by the author and many full page in a large book, show the scope of his work around the country, and are backed up with original maps and prints.

Published by Unicorn Publishing Group, hardback £30 www.unicornpublishing.org

Gardens of the Italian Lakes by Steven Desmond

Just right for a winter read, perhaps for planning a summer trip, this is not a coffee table book but will give you a deeper insight into this beautiful and fascinating part of north Italy with its historical gardens around Lakes Como and Maggiore. Historical gardens specialist Steven Desmond and award winning photographer Marianne Majerus have collaborated on a book that features gardens such as the famous 16th century cascade garden of Villa D’Este, Cernobbio, a lovely island garden, Isola Bella, at Stresa, and Villa Taranto at Pallanza, one of the world’s greatest woodland gardens.

Published by Francis Lincoln, hardback £35 www.franceslincoln.com

Thenford: the Creation of an English Garden by Michael & Anne Heseltine This is the story of one garden and one family, over a 40-year time span. Michael and Anne Heseltine describe the ups and downs of how they found and began to transform a wild, overgrown and often dilapidated woodland into the magnificent garden they have today. The garden at Thenford in Northamptonshire has been expanded and now has more than 3,500 different species of trees and shrubs, including rare plants which were collected in the wild by well-known plantsmen including Roy Lancaster OBE. There is also a sculpture garden with an eclectic collection ranging from work by Elizabeth Frink to an enormous statue of Lenin. This beautifully illustrated book is a chance to see images of an important private garden, the home of one of the country’s leading politicians and former Deputy Prime Minister.

Published by Jacqui Small Publishing, hardback £25 www.jacquismall.com 24

Country Gardener

Jim Buttress – The People’s Gardener: A Marvellous Life from Royal Parks and RHS to Britain in Bloom By Jim Buttress and James Hogg

If you’ve had enough of historic anniversaries and want something literally more down to earth, then this entertaining read should fit the bill. Jim Buttress is well known as one of the judges on the BBC TV series The Big Allotment Challenge and has been a popular speaker at the Toby Buckland Garden Festivals organised by Country Gardener Magazines in recent years and will be at the festival at Powderham Castle near Exeter on 28th and 29th April 2017. Here, in a lively memoir he takes us through early years as a naughty boy at school but one who excelled at gardening, training at RHS Wisley, ten years as Superintendent of the Central Royal Parks, as a judge at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and for Britain in Bloom and on to television. The book reads just like his talks – full of funny stories such as having a drink and chat with the Queen Mother, but his has been a distinguished career as shown by being awarded two medals of honour by the Royal Horticultural Society including the coveted Victorian Medal of Honour.

Published by Sidgwick & Jackson, hardback £16.99 www.panmacmillan.com

Scenes and Apparitions: The Roy Strong Diaries 1988-2003 This is the second volume of diaries published by the art historian, gardener, broadcaster and writer, and covers the period of his life after he left the Victoria and Albert Museum where he had been director for nearly 15 years, the youngest ever in the post. The diaries trace how he made another life after the shackles of working for public institutions but had to make some money by turning his hand to whatever came his way: first as a consultant on the Canary Wharf development then as a writer and broadcaster. Read about his designs for the Prince of Wales’ garden at Highgrove and for Elton John, his emergence as a bestselling historian, his travels and the making of the garden at his home in Herefordshire, The Laskett. The diaries close with the death of his wife, the distinguished theatre and film designer Julia Trevelyan OBE. Sir Roy Strong’s diaries are as outspoken as you’d expect, entertaining, revealing and thought provoking – and very interesting about not only the making of his garden but of other gardens around the country.

Published by Ebury Press, hardback, £45 www.eburypublishing.co.uk

Monet’s Garden – Through the Seasons at Giverny by Vivian Russell This is a new edition of Vivian Russell’s much admired exploration of Claude Monet’s garden at Giverny – the original edition came out nearly 20 years ago, but this is a good quality paperback that’s lavishly illustrated with award winning photography. Apart from the history of the garden that links Monet the artist to Monet the gardener, with old photos and some of Monet’s beautiful work, there are four chapters tracing the changing seasons and especially about the atmosphere and light that became such a focus for Monet in his painting. Read about the work of the present day gardeners at Giverny as they maintain one of the most visited gardens in the world – and one that can still inspire with its rich planting schemes.

Published by Frances Lincoln, paperback £16.99 www.franceslincoln.com

How to Make a Wildflower Meadow – Tried and tested techniques for new garden landscapes by James Hewetson-Brown

Another good winter read to get you thinking about planning for your garden next spring, with step by step advice on planting, maintaining and cutting back a meadow that will bring nature into your garden with beauty and new interest.

James Hewetson-Brown was an arable farmer before concentrating on finding a way of establishing wildflower meadows wherever people wanted them. Now much in demand, his unique wildflower turf has featured at Kew Gardens, Chelsea Flower Show and even on the set of the opening ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics. Here more than 30 wildlflower meadows are showcased in varied settings in all sizes, ranging from gardens and public spaces, mixed borders and orchards to green roofs, alongside paths, on sloping banks and in containers.

Published by Bloomsbury, paperback £25 www.bloomsbury.com www.countrygardener.co.uk

25

Sowing the SEEDS OF LEARNING There’s a new top five list when it comes to the skills gardeners are looking to add to their knowledge base over the winter months.

So if you are one of the many thousands who want make the best use of the next few months by learning one of the wide range of courses and workshops available you might like to know what the RHS says is in vogue at the moment.

The most popular courses are built round: • Grafting and propagation • Planting a wild flower meadow • Making a garden more bee friendly • Flower arranging and floristry • Willow weaving The RHS has said it continues to see a substantial shift in the demand for skills training amongst hobby gardeners and another record year in those seeking to make gardening a full time career.

Another huge request from the RHS and other courses available is the demand for smallholding skills, adding animals to a garden to make self sufficiency more of a possibility for home owners.

The search for gardening skills is therefore booming.

Almost a third of gardeners now want to develop a new skill when it comes to making the most of their hobby.

The boom in learning is set against a recent claim that Britain has lost a lot of its gardening skills which need to be re-learnt.

The claim is that the loss of knowledge stems from people born after it became common for both parents to work so basic gardening YOU HAVE skills were not handed down from parent to childbecause there was no time WE HAVE in a busy working schedule.

A survey by the RHS interviewed 500 people from For details three different generations about their gardening habits, www.wfga.org.uk and found that less than one 01285 658339

per cent of parents were taught gardening in school.

This was in comparison to 55 per cent of grandparents, according to the survey.

Organic gardening , garden design, propagation, composting and understanding soil preparation all remain popular with flower arranging showing the biggest single growth in terms of new students.

“The biggest change we have seen“ says the RHS, “continues to be the number of people who have identified career opportunities in horticulture and in the wider aspects of land management. The expansion of the market, the number of garden centres, formal gardens and larger properties now employing full time gardeners suggest there will be professional skills needed across the board.”

“It is also exciting to see the number of enthusiastic gardeners who now want to learn more about their hobby and hone their skills to either solve a particular gardening problem or for example to run their gardens organically.

“Learning composting skills is hugely popular with garden design not far behind. It just reflects the huge growth in interest we have see in gardening and in particular gardeners who take their hobby very seriously”.

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Country Gardener

are also keen gardeners with horticultural and agricultural training. Recognising a need for some of the key skills associated with environmental topics, they decided to set up a small company providing short courses – mostly one or two days or evening classes. Not everyone has the time or resources to undertake lengthy courses, but may like to add to their knowledge, either for work or just for the pleasure of learning something new, and with CREST (Conservation, Rural Education and Skiills Training) participants gain valuable skills in subjects such as plant or invertebrate identification, habitat interpretation, farming and wildlife, woodland ecology, botany, plant health or science for gardeners – to name a few! CREST works closely with a number of other organisations such as the Field Studies Council (FSC), Natural England and the Devon Hedge Group.

If you want to join CREST for one of their courses, contact them on 01548 531148 info@crestdevon.co.uk or visit their website on www.crestdevon.co.uk for further details and to complete the ‘Contact Us’ form, you can also go on the mailing list to be kept informed of what’s new. As well as courses, CREST provides a diverse range of talks from Gardening for Wildlife to Tropical Forest Restoration. Courses are provided at a range of sites around Devon, but for groups, the ‘Mobile Classroom’ means that these can be undertaken almost anywhere by arrangement. CREST will be at a range of shows in 2017, keep an eye on ‘Dates for your Diary’ on the website. Come and talk to CREST at the Toby Buckland Garden Festival 28th & 29th April. Next Course: ‘Science for Gardeners’ held at Charleton Village Hall, four evening classes starting Friday 6th January.

LET WRAGS SCHEME GIVE YOU A EXTRA PAIR OF HANDS

Wide range of courses, talks and other services available.

Next Course: ‘Science for Gardeners’ evening classes in January at Charleton Village Hall, nr Kingsbridge. Visit our website for a full listing, and check the box if you would like to be on our mailing list.

www.crestdevon.co.uk Email: info@crestdevon.co.uk Tel: 01548 531148

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Would you like to share your garden knowledge and have an extra pair of hands in the garden? The Women’s Farm & Garden Association, (WFGA) has a unique garden skills training scheme – WRAGS. A trainee works part-time in a garden throughout a whole year - learning practical gardening skills.

Gardens benefit enormously by having a trainee – not just for the labour but for the enthusiasm and the fresh interest in the garden – a trainees’ learning encourages all to learn more. WFGA is seeking gardens to join the scheme. Please see www.wfga.org.uk for more details or ring the office on 01285 658339.

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27

WILDLIFE

Atmospheric winter walks on

CORNWALL’S COASTLINE We may want to look at Cornwall through the TV drama 'Poldark' on a winter’s evening, but if you get out there and discover the coastal paths it’s much more fun Many of us have to be coaxed out of our semi-hibernation through the winter months. But getting out for a brisk walk, especially around our coastline, will really blow the cobwebs away and make you feel so much better.

TV audiences have been glued to the drama of Poldark – and not only the characters’ stories. The main star is Cornwall and its coastline.

Cornwall in winter is atmospheric, quiet, and usually mild enough for a very pleasant winter’s walk. The coastal path can be easily followed and the South West Coast Path has walks in its 630 miles running from Somerset to Dorset that are very accessible, although there are more strenuous ones for those who are up for a challenge.

Through the Countryside Mobility project, at an increasing number of locations (currently over 30 sites in the South West) you can also hire a ‘Tramper’ rugged mobility scooter, that will go smoothly and comfortable across uneven paths.

Choose from a walk that makes you imagine the ‘Lost World of Lyonesse’, nearly five miles of moderate walking starting from Land’s End, looking out across the rocks and turbulent sea to where some believe that the lost world of Arthur lies, where his final battle with Mordred took place. Behind is an ancient patchwork field system going back thousands of years.

Or you may want to try a walk of about two and a half miles on the North Cornwall coast from Chapel Porth to the old tin mining area of Wheal’s Coates, a gentle climb beside a stream. You’ll see scenery used in many film locations, including adaptations of novels by one of Cornwall’s popular novelists, Rosamund Pilcher.

The South West Coast Path is a great place to take your dog for a walk. They are permitted on the entire path, and providing that you look after them in a responsible way to avoid disturbing livestock and wildlife or causing a nuisance to other walkers, you and your dog will be welcomed.

Try the walk from Pentire Point to the Rumps, on the north coast and not far from Padstow. The path is narrow and 28

stony in places, and the weather can be a bit rough around the exposed headland. Choose between a short walk from the Pentire Farm car park or a longer walk from Polzeath, catching the bus back, or make an even longer walk by continuing along the Coast Path to Port Isaac.

This walk visits an Iron Age promontory fort and some Bronze Age burial mounds, also featuring a famous wartime poem and a breathtaking sandy cove surrounded by gorse and woodland, with a rocky archway to a collapsed sea cave. There are spectacular views out over Padstow Bay and beyond, as well as a puffin island and volcanic pillow lavas.

For winter walks you need to exercise a bit more care because of shorter days and unsettled weather. Wrap up well, take some snacks and drink, start out in good time and take care if paths are slippery, and keep a safe distance to watch the Atlantic Ocean’s waves crash against the cliffs and rocks.

If you are taking a dog with you, always keep it in sight using a lead if necessary, but always keep it on a short lead near sheep and other animals near the path, keep them well away from cliff edges and don’t let them run to other people. Take water for your dog and bags to pick up mess.

You may not see Ross Poldark riding his horse across the clifftops or Demelza wading across the beaches with her billowing skirts, but you will have a lot of good exercise with fewer people around and plenty of beautiful scenery, history – and perhaps a cosy place to eat or stay at the end of the day.

For more information on walks along the South West Coast Path, where to stop for something to eat or to stay, about walking festivals throughout the year and much more, go to www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk

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SPECIALIST TREES

DON’T GIVE UP on the horse chestnut just yet

A diseased horse chestnut leaf showing signs of attack by horse chestnut leaf miner

Mark Hinsley reports that one of our best-loved trees is in trouble but urges us not to give up on it Some of you will already know, and some will not, why our horse chestnut trees have, for some years now, been gradually through the summer turning from green to brown and dropping their leaves in a horrible and early mess at the end of the year.

The culprit is the horse chestnut leaf miner Camraria ohridella.

Horse chestnut leaf miner was first observed in Northern Greece in 1985, and since then it has spread throughout Central and Eastern Europe. It was first found in Great Britain in 2002 in the London borough of Wimbledon. How it managed to get there nobody knows, perhaps it came in attached to a tennis player? Since 2002 it has rapidly spread to most parts of England, most likely by hitching a ride on vehicles, and every year, without fail, after a spring ‘honeymoon’ period of about a month, it begins its disfiguring activities.

The reason for this spring delay is that the pupae of Camraria ohridella over-winter in the leaf litter beneath the tree and after they have hatched in late April toearly June they fly up into the tree to mate. The females lay their eggs on the open leaves and the larvae bore into the leaf to begin the cycle again. Through the course of a summer there may be as many as five generations of moths produced.

It is the over wintering stage of the life cycle where the moths are most vulnerable. Simple good sanitation, the raking up of all the fallen leaves in the winter and either burning them, composting them thoroughly or covering them with a layer of soil or other material to prevent the adults emerging can significantly reduce the amount of damage your tree has had inflicted upon it the following year.

Research published by the Forestry Commission suggests that 1Kg (2lb 3oz) of leaves could release 4,500 moths in the spring that would in turn result in 80,000 eggs – so get raking!

Are they a product of global warming? No – but they do best in hot dry summers.

30

A picturesque avenue of horse chestnuts tress in full autumn glory

Something that always seems to put a rather smug, condescending smile on the face of ladies is that, as with other types of insect, pheromone traps are also available, because even little mothy type blokes go daft for pheromones and can’t be prevented from falling into a trap when blinded by lust.

A more serious disease of horse chestnut is bleeding canker. The causal agent is most often a bacteria called Pseudomonas syringae pv aesculi, and only very occasionally a fungus called Phytophthora. This disease is typified by dark brown/black patches caused by bleeding around stem cankers. If the trunk becomes completely ringed by such cankers, the tree will die.

Having said that, the progress of the disease can be very slow and some trees have even been known to recover.

There is no direct link between Bleeding Canker and horse chestnut leaf miner. However, as I have previously preached, the best control of disease is the maintenance of strong growth and vigour, so anything that weakens a tree, even a little, can leave it more vulnerable to other pathogens.

The moral of the story is: don’t give up on the good old horse chestnut just yet. Keep it as healthy as you can and get rid of those autumn leaves so that, hopefully, it will go on rewarding you for your kindness with those fabulous spring displays of flowers and the odd conker on the bonce for very many years to come!

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

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@Riverside_GCHQ

Clift House Road, Southville, Bristol BS3 1RX

0117 966 7535

www.riversidegardencentre.com www.countrygardener.co.uk

31

Italy becomes a magnet

for garden lovers Garden enthusiasts wanting to broaden their horticultural horizons it seems have one thing in mind for next year– the many and glorious delights of Italy.

A recent poll amongst gardeners who were looking for an overseas garden trip and tour showed over half were planning to visit the ‘classical garden capital of Europe’ country which boasts of the wonders of the Italian lakes, the gardens of Venice, Rome, Naples, Milan and Tuscany.

Italian gardens it seems are setting the standard with classical designs, ancient statuary, pools and fountains and all shades of green.

For many years now the gardens around Lake Como, Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta have been a must visit for garden enthusiasts but in the last two years the whole of Italy has become a magnet for lovers of classically beautiful and historic gardens which year on year figures increasing by ten per cent a year.

The poll also highlighted the importance of escorted tours or guided tours the beauty of which is that you can ’cut to the chase’; do and see what you came to do and see. Someone else works out the itinerary, sorts out

transportation, accommodation, entrance tickets and, on occasion, exclusive private tours.

Tailor made tours built around knowledgeable guides, top class accommodation and entrance into some of the greatest gardens in Europe is a feature of the popular Expressions Holidays 2017 garden tours of Italy– which includes visits Villa Garzoni, Tuscany and Castelgondolfo Papal gardens on the Rome tour.

Expressions Holidays 2017 garden tours for small groups of up to 14 people to the gardens and villas of Italy are booking now! Each tour with a local guide shows you the most outstanding gardens, their history and planting. Prices start at £2,250 per person (double or twin share) and a single supplement from £300.

Environs of Rome (includes Ninfa, Landriana and Villa Lante) on 10th May, 17th May, 7th June and 6th September 2017.

Tuscany (includes Villa Reale di Marlia and Villa Torrigiani) on 4th June, 25th June and 10th September 2017.

Contact Expressions Holidays on 01392 441275 for full details. www.expressionsholidays.co.uk

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 2017: 4 Jun, 25 Jun, 10 Sep From £2,350 per person

14 people •perMaximum tour Local guides and guided •garden visits included

LAKES COMO AND MAGGIORE Visits to: Villa Babbianello, Villa Carlotta, Villa Monastero, Isola Bella, Isola Madre 2017: 9 May, 23 May, 6 Jun, 27 Jun, 5 Sep From £2,290 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 2017: 4 May, 18 May, 8 June, 14 Sep From £2,280 per person

to each tour •canExtensions be arranged SPEAK TO OUR EXPERTS

01392 441275

ENVIRONS OF ROME Visits to: Villa d’Este, Bomarzo, Villa Lante, Giardino di Ninfa, Landriana 2017: 10 May, 17 May, 7 Jun, 6 Sep From £2,250 per person VENETO Visits to: Villa Barbarigo, Villa Emo, Villa Pisani, Giardino Giusti, Villa Rizzardi 2017: 7 Jun, 6 Sep From £2,240 per person

32Country Gardener 6 Oct 2016 MH FIN.indd

1

THE ART OF INTELLIGENT TRAVEL ORGANISING FOUNDED 1989

www.expressionsholidays.co.uk Country Gardener

06/10/2016 16:17:45

Plan next year with winter vegetables in mind

You can plan ahead for winter by growing a range of robust crops so that even when the weather is bleak, there’s something tasty to harvest or bring out of storage

Growing for winter is a year-round job. You have to ignore the bounty all around you through spring and summer and sow away single-mindedly with winter in mind and something which will make an all year round use of your vegetable garden.

So at this time of year when you might be planning your garden’s activity for next year it’s worth taking a few moments to plan for next winter’s crop.

Most winter vegetable plants are fully hardy and will cope well with cold winter weather, but if hard frosts threaten then you can always throw some fleece across them to provide some extra protection.

Most can be planted or sown directly outdoors to ensure that your winter vegetable garden is fully stocked.

The thing is not to let your vegetable plot stand empty and neglected over winter. There are plenty of winter vegetables to grow throughout the coldest months.

But it does take a little planning to have enough vegetables for winter.

For instance sow brassicas and leeks into a seedbed outside or into seed trays, cell trays or pots indoors during spring and summer.

Parsnips can go direct into the ground and be aware they may take several weeks to germinate and never forget the old adage that parsnips need a frost before you pick them to bring out the sweetness.

In the summer months you can harden off seedlings raised in the greenhouse thoroughly before planting them outside.

Transplant seedlings to their final positions when they have formed small, sturdy plants with two or four pairs of true leaves (in the case of leeks, when they are pencil thick).

Sow salad plants direct into the ground in summer in shallow drills that have been watered prior to sowing.

In summer and with winter in mind use space wisely by sowing or transplanting seedlings into ground vacated by early crops, such as broad beans or early potatoes.

Plant garlic, onions and shallots. Garlic, in particular, needs a period of cold, so it wants to be in the ground and growing well before the winter weather moves in. It is hugely heartening to see the green shoots appear just after Christmas, despite everything, as though spring has arrived early. It may seem a foolish move to stick your head above the soil at that moment, but it is the right thing for garlic.

Some onion and shallot sets can be planted now, too. It is no

more difficult to plant a lovely form of shallot than it is a bog standard one, or a dull old onion for that matter. Try French types 'Echalote Grise’ and 'Hative de Niort’. If you like banana shallots, then 'Jermor’ is ideal.

Sowing winter lettuce Lettuce does well through winter if you choose the right varieties and can give it a little protection. Hardy types include such as 'Rouge d’Hiver’, 'Winter Gem’ and 'Winter Density’.

Sowing peas You do need to pick a hardy type to get the right results , and 'Douce Provence’ is one such. It also has the benefit of being fairly dwarf and at just 30in tall needs little support, which is handy for winter. It will do even better in a polytunnel but is well worth sowing now, outside, too.

Sowing spinach Spinach is a pain to grow in the summer when it runs to seed within days of reaching edible size The hardy types sown in autumn provide the best winter results. These need to be under a cloche, but you should still get good growth if you sow 'Monoppa’ or 'Atlanta’.

When to sow vegetables for winter harvests

SPRING AND SUMMER Sow hardy winter vegetables such as sprouting broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, winter cabbage and leeks in late spring or early summer as they take several months to reach maturity. They stand well through frosty weather and can be harvested throughout the winter months.

Sow leafy crops such as chard, chicory, landcress and parsley in early summer for autumn harvests that can last into winter if they are provided with some fleece or cloche protection.

LATE SUMMER AND AUTUMN Sow corn salad, land cress and oriental salad leaves such as komatsuna, mibuna, mizuna, mustard and rocket.

These will provide cut-and-come-again leaves through the autumn, and winter if covered with a cloche, coldframe or fleece.

Potatoes can be planted in mid to late summer for winter harvests.

www.countrygardener.co.uk

33

ASK OUR EXPERTS

ANY QUESTIONS?

Our Country Gardener experts can solve your gardening problems

Our popular gardening expert Andrew Midgley takes the responsibility again for answering a wide range of readers questions –some which have a winter theme. Andrew worked for the National Trust for 17 years and was general manager at gardens at Coleton Fishacre, Greenway and Compton Castle.

Devon nurseryman Kevin Croucher answers a specific question on magnolias.

Q. I planted some nice clematis a couple of years ago.

They have flowered but remain very stringy. Is there anything I can do to make them more bushy?

Q. I have grown fuchsias for many years with no problems. I have some in the garden, and 25 in pots on a wall. This year, the ones in the pots have had spotted leaves which have fallen off. I think it may be a form of rust? When I cut them down to put in my greenhouse for the winter, should I spray them? If so, what should I buy?

Clematis like their feet in the shade and their head in the sun

A. Two things spring to mind. The first is what flowering group is your clematis, since this will tell you when to prune it? Broadly speaking clematis require pruning annually to encourage both flowers and growth. It’s not unusual for clematis to take a couple of years to get going. If you know when your clematis came into flower you will be able to narrow it down to which pruning group your clematis is in. If you’ve got the label then that’s even better! Very loosely the groups are as follows: Group 1 flowers in spring, Group 2 flowers in mid summer and Group 3 in late summer. The worst that can happen if you prune at the wrong time of year is that you lose a season’s display. The other factor to consider is whether your clematis is in the right place. Questions to ask are: Is the soil waterlogged? Is there enough sun as clematis like their feet in the shade and their head in the sun? Is the plant crowded out by other plants? Have you planted the plant correctly at the right depth? Is it too close to the wall and thus drying out? Lots of variables to consider there but I suspect it’s a combination of not pruning it and allowing time for it to get established. A good mulch around the base in the spring will help it too. Good luck.

34

Fuchsias in pots are prone to rust disease

A. From what you say it sounds like it is a form of rust which is a fungal disease or it might be a virus which would be very difficult to treat. I would be tempted to re pot the plants with fresh compost when you bring them in for the winter. If it were me I would thoroughly wash the pots too with displayed in a bucket of warm water as an extra precaution. As you say, cut them back and religiously remove any debris from the surface to reduce spreading the disease. You may have to accept that even if you have carried out the above you might have to destroy the plants if the leaves the following year continue to have spots on them as there’s a possibility that other fuchsias in your garden could be affected. In short, it might be easier to buy in new disease resistance plants. If it’s a fungal disease I would use something like Bayer’s Fungus Fighter

Country Gardener

Plus, but personally I would try to manage it culturally by not over watering the fuchsia when in flower and to encourage better air flow around the plant plus ensuring all fallen leaves are picked up and placed in the waste bin.

Q. Two years ago, my daughter planted six shrub rose bushes. Early this summer, her family moved to London but couldn't take her rose bushes with her. I dug them out and moved them to my border.

This will be my first winter with them, and I'm not quite sure how to protect them at all over the winter them. They have special meaning, so I'd like to see them all survive. They are planted in an open area where they are prone to winter winds. Any info you could share with me would be very helpful.

Pruning roses in November and December is the first task

A. The first thing is to prune them back roughly to the height of your knees to reduce wind rock. Cut out obviously dead wood too. The time to do this is in November and December. Clear away any fallen leaves to reduce black spot infestation the following season.

It might be worth checking that the roses are properly firmed in around the base. Give the border a quick fork over to reduce compaction and to allow the winter rain to percolate through easily. You shouldn't need to do anything over the winter protection wise as the roses will essentially be leafless sticks in the ground. In the spring, prune them by a few inches again to an outwards facing bud. Also cut out dead, diseased and weak growth as well as stems that criss-cross each other. What you are aiming for is an open framework to encourage air flow. Around each rose I would lightly fork in Growmore or fish, blood and bone. A good mulch of well rotted manure should be added too, a week or two later.

Q. My neighbour cut down a lot of trees last year, and the two rhododendrons in front of my house really suffered over the winter from all of the wind that resulted. One of them died, and the other looks to be struggling. Is there anything I can do to protect them this winter?

A. On the assumption you are right that the wind is the cause of the damage, which is the likely culprit, I would throw over a horticultural fleece over the surviving rhododendron at the very least. You could also put up a

Any sort of wind protection will help rhododendrons during the winter months

temporary windproof screen in front of the rhododendron to filter the wind. It would be interesting to see whether your neighbour has replanted to replace the trees he has taken out as well as creating an understory of lower growing plants to help filter the winds. Is there an opportunity to plant a natural windbreak in your garden in front of your neighbour’s ? In the spring, I would apply a layer of mulch consisting of wood chips around the rhododendron to help rejuvenate it. Also prune out any damaged branches and perhaps give a foliar feed to give it a restorative boost. The other possibility is lifting up the existing rhododendron and replant in a more sheltered spot. You could replant the area with small leaved azaleas and perhaps as a precaution rig up a wind break during the winter months.

Q. We are blessed with a large, mature (five metres high with a ten metre spread) magnolia which has several large, pendulous lower branches which have filled the available space. We are contemplating removing some of the lower branches to encourage upward growth and to allow space for planting shade loving plants under the canopy. We are conscious of the danger of producing masses of water shoots if not pruned properly, and of the danger of damaging a beautiful tree. We’d really appreciate some advice as to how and when to attempt this major surgery.

A. Magnolias can be very temperamental to prune. Done at the wrong time and in the wrong way can sometimes kill the whole tree. I have had people argue with me about this, but in my experience the best time to prune is August. By this time the sap flow is slowing and the weather is warm and dry, allowing the cuts to seal before winter shut down. If these lower branches represent less than 20 per cent of the tree crown remove them back to the main stem or a suitable large branch as one job next August. Some ‘water shoots’ may emerge subsequently, but these can be rubbed of whilst young and soft.

Kevin Croucher Thanks to you our readers for all the gardening questions we’ve received this year. They are always interesting and have often challenged our experts.

Do keep them coming in and we’ll resume the Q&A service when we return with a new season of Country Gardener next February.

www.countrygardener.co.uk

35

TIME Off

GARDEN EVENTS AROUND SOMERSET compiled by Kate Lewis

Here’s a selection of Somerset gardening events to look out for right through to next February. Thank you to all those gardening clubs who have sent us their details of events for us to publicise. Country Gardener will be back in February 2017 so remember to 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

DECEMBER DIARY 4th-21st Dunster, Dunster Castle NT, 01643 821314

Christmas through the ages and illuminated winter walk at Dunster Castle As the light fades the castle will be spectacularly lit and dressed for Christmas, each room reflecting a specific time period from Victorian to the 1950s. An illuminated winter walk will lead you around the grounds. Dunster Castle, Castle Hill, Dunster, Somerset TA24 6SL. Normal admission applies.

4th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 16th – 21st December, 2 - 7pm.

4th & 5th Taunton, Hestercombe Gardens, 01823 413923 Wreath making workshops Deck the Halls Join florist extraordinaire Sarah Pepper for a workshop to make a beautiful Christmas wreath. Sunday 10am-12.30pm & 2pm-4.30pm. Monday 10am-12.30pm. Also: a twiggy garland workshop Monday 18th December 10am-12.30pm. £28 online/£29 offline

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10th Stoke St Gregory, Taunton 01823 490249 Farmers Market at Willows & Wetlands Visitor Centre Sample and purchase fine food from some of the best local producers around. . 10am-2pm.

Willows and Wetlands Visitor Centre, Taunton Dean Willow & Wetlands Visitor Centre, Meare Green Court, Stoke St Gregory, Taunton, Somerset TA3 6HY 10th Chard, Forde Abbey, 01460 220231 Audience with Father Christmas at Forde Abbey Christmas at Forde Abbey is magical – share in the season’s joy and wonder with an ‘Audience with Father Christmas’. Join him by the Great Hall’s fireside, hear stories of Christmas merriment and mirth.Performances at 11am and 2pm. Tickets: Adults £8, children £10, including garden entry. To buy tickets, complete the booking form on the website to be contacted for payment confirmation, or call 01460 220231 Mondays-Fridays, 9.30am-4.30pm. www.fordeabbey.co.uk 10th Park Farm, nr Wrangway, Wellington, 01823 681937 Get Involved - Winter Tree Identification Join the Natural Futures team and learn how to identify a range of tree species even after they've dropped their leaves,

Country Gardener

from twigs collected from the local area. Free refreshments.

10am-2pm. Free event but booking essential. Park Farm, near Wrangway, Wellington, Somerset TA21 9NP. www. blackdownhillsnaturalfutures.org

February 3rd-26th Chard, Snowdrop Weekends at Forde Abbey Every Saturday and Sunday in February will see a glorious carpet of snowdrops. Most at Forde Abbey are the common snowdrop Galanthus nivalis, including the double form G.nivalis flore pleno, but spot other varieties such as G. atkinsii in the Rock Garden. Forde Abbey Chard Somerset TA20 4LU Tel: 01460 221290. 10am-5.30pm.

Last admission 4.30pm. Reduced winter admission rate applies. www.fordeabbey.co.uk

CLUBS AND O THER ORGANISAT IONS December 1st

3rd

West & Middle Chinnock Gardening Club ‘CREATING A CHRISTMAS DISPLAY’ – GOLD CLUB SPEAKER Details on 01935 862500 Somerset Plant Heritage Group AGM followed by “REJUVENATING A TIRED GARDEN’-ELIZABETH HOLMAN www.plantheritagesomerset.org.uk

3rd

West Somerset Garden Centre CHRISTMAS EVENT-FAMILY DAY. www.westsomersetgardencentre.co.uk 5th Plant Heritage Somerset Group ‘CHRISTMAS SWAGS, GARLANDS & TABLE DECORATIONS’ & AGM Details on 01278 451631 6th Frome Selwood Horticultural Society ‘MISTLETOE, HOLLY & IVY’ – ROY CHEEK Details on 01373 462162 6th Isle of Wedmore Gardening Club CHRISTMAS PARTY Details on 01278 641345 7th Henton & District Gardening Club ‘A HEAD GARDENER’S STORY’ – JAMES COX Details on 01749 672084 8th East Coker Gardening Club QUIZ NIGHT Details on 01935 862447 8th West Bagborough Garden Club MEMBERS EVENING AND CHRISTMAS PARTY Details on 01823 430579 8th Weston-super-Mare Horticultural Society SOCIAL EVENING – VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS Details on 01934 514057 9th Castle Cary Gardening Association ‘A CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINMENT WITH MUSIC, SONG AND MORE’ – BERNARD COULTER Details on 01963 350618 9th Ferndown & District Horticultural Society ‘SUMMER BEDDING, HANGING BASKETS & CONTAINERS’ 9th Stowey Gardeners MEMBERS CHRISTMAS PARTY Details on 01278 733334 10th/11th Forde Abbey AN AUDIENCE WITH FATHER CHRISTMAS Details on 01460 221290 13th Sedgemoor Garden Club CHRISTMAS SUPPER & QUIZ 14th Link -Up Gardening Club, Kingston St Mary ‘CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS’ – JANET BLANCHARD Details on 01823 452277 14th Nailsea & District Horticultural Society ‘SEASONAL FLORAL ART DESIGNS’ - DIANE OLIVER Details on 01275 855342

15th Yatton Horticultural Society ‘OWLS’ – CHRIS SPERRIN Details on 01934 832790 16th Alpine Garden Society Bristol Group CHRISTMAS MEETING Details on 0117 9673160 20th Holford Gardeners Group CHRISTMAS SOCIAL EVENING Details on 01278 741130

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January 9th 10th

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Clevedon Gardener’s Club ‘MAGNOLIAS’ – DR IAN BURNS www.clevedongardeners@btck.co.uk Frome Selwood Horticultural Society ‘SWEET PEAS’ – PHIL KERTON Details on 01373 462162 Sedgemoor Garden Club ‘WICKED PLANTS’ – MARION DALE Timsbury Horticultural Society ‘SWEET PEAS’ – GILL HAZELL Details on 01761 412941 Kilmersdon Gardeners ‘PHOTOS OF GARDENS’ – DAVID MOON Details on 01761 233325 Nailsea & District Horticultural Society ‘HOUSE PLANTS’ – ANDY HART Details on 01275 855342 Mere Garden Club PENNARD PLANT POTATO SALE, 5PM – 7PM Details on 01747 8600884 West & Middle Chinnock Gardening Club SOCIAL EVENING Details on 01935 862500 Seavington Gardening Club ‘BEHIND THE SCENES AT CHELSEA’ – SALLY NEX Details on 01460 929605 Burnham Horticultural Society ‘THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE BISHOP’S PALACE GARDENS PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE’ – JAMES CROSS Details on 01278 788058 Henton & District Gardening Club ‘A VICTORIAN HEAD GARDENER’ – DR FRANCIS BURROUGHS Details on 01749 672084 Stowey Gardeners ‘STEART RESERVE’ – RAY OSBORNE & AGM Details on 01278 733334 Avon Organic Group

www.countrygardener.co.uk

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31st

‘SOIL ASSOCIATION CERTIFICATION’ - TOM HARTLEY Clevedon Gardeners’ Club ‘CREATING YEO VALLEY ORGANIC GARDEN’ – JAMES COX www.clevedongardeners@btck. co.uk Uplyme & Lyme Regis Horticultural Society ‘SEED SWAP, QUIZ AND SOCIAL EVENING’ Details on 01297 34733 Avon Organic Group ‘A HISTORY OF THE HENRY DOUBLEDAY RESEARCH ASSOCIATION’ - JON LUCAS Enmore & District Gardening Club CELEBRITY TALK: THE LIFE AND WORKS OF ALAN POWERS, HEAD GARDENER AT STOURHEAD Visitors £3. Details on 01278 671654

February 2nd

2nd

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North Curry Amateur Gardens Club ‘BULBS - YEAR ROUND CREATIVE USE’ Details on 01823 490 595 West & Middle Chinnock Gardening Club ‘SPIRIT OF A JAPANESE GARDEN’ – DAVID BURGESS Details on 01935 862500 Clevedon Gardeners’ Club ‘HERBACEOUS PLANTS FOR YOUR GARDEN’ – DAVID USHER www.clevedongardeners@btck. co.uk Frome Selwood Horticultural Society AGM Details on 01373 462162 Mere Garden Club ‘RELOCATION OF BRISTOL UNIVERSITY GARDENS’ – NICK WRAY Details on 01747 8600884 Nailsea & District Horticultural Society ‘THE COTTAGE GARDEN’ – DON EVERITT Details on 01275 855342 Seavington Gardening Club ‘GROWING FRUIT AND VEGETABLES ON THE PATIO’ – GOLD CLUB Details on 01460 929605

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Go to cottages .com ref nos UKC 392 W43950 and W44036 Cornwall, near St Just. Chalet, sleeps 4, heated indoor pool, open all year – near gardens/coast, golfing nearby.

Prices from £260 pw. 01736 788718 Bosworlas near Sennen/St Just, Cornwall. Cosy Cottage, rural views, Sleeps 2-4 01736 788709 www.bosworlas.co.uk

Carmarthen Bay South Wales Seafront chalet situated on estuary. Sleeps up to 6. Seaview.

Well Behaved Dogs Welcome. For brochure Tel: 01269 862191

Fully equipped self catering house. Undercover parking. 10

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Cornwall. Village location between Truro and Falmouth. Fully equipped renovated cottage. Peaceful garden.

Off road parking. Ideal for 2 adults.

No children/animals. Good public transport. Good pub and shop. Easy reach of Heligan and Eden.

Tel: 01279 876751 ayrepj@aol.com Shakespeare Country/Cotswolds.

Sleeps 5, Dogs Welcome. 07757 784074 www.newparkholidaycottage.co.uk Carmarthenshire. A charming holiday cottage, rural setting, stands alone, Sleeps 3. Short breaks available. Pets welcome. 01239 711679 Devon, Culm Valley. Well equipped rural cottage for 2. No Pets/Smokers 01884 841320 Self-catering cottages in countryside near Lyme Regis. Japanese food available. www.hellbarn.co.uk Lanlivery near Eden and other Cornish Gardens lovely woodland lodge 2/4 people 01726 430489 www.poppylodgecornwall.co.uk

mins walk to the seafront.

Tel. 01934 862840 www.sidmouth-stayatnewlands.co.uk

Accommodation Abroad

Pretty villages, Bustling market towns excellent walking NT and gardens Tel: 01242 604189 www.pinnockwoodfarm.co.uk

Winchester, Farm Cottage Golf, woodlands, many nurseries, Marwell Zoo Tel: 01489 861146

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Gloucestershire, Cosy annexe for two

non-smokers, lovely garden, beautiful countryside. Pets welcome.

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In sunny SW France just 30 mins from Bergerac airport. Find us on Facebook. www.maison-bb.com

Accommodation: Holiday Cottages Padstow house, 4 + baby, gardens, parking, Wi-Fi, Camel trail (bike storage), beaches. 07887 813495 holidaysat55@gmail.com Country Gardener

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

Tel: 01239 841850 www.valleyviewcottages.co.uk

CLASSIF IED Accommodation With Beautiful Gardens

Sidmouth Devon Holiday bungalow in AONB overlooking Donkey Sanctuary.

Sleeps 4. April – October. Ideal for walkers, nature lovers and children. jandtmercer@gmail.com www.sandwaysholidaycottage.co.uk 07842 514296

North Devon near Clovelly. 3 delightful cottages situated in 12 acres of idyllic countryside. Sleeps 2-4. 1 Wheelchair friendly. Prices from £190 p.w. Brochure: 01237 431324 www.foxwoodlodge.co.uk Northumberland Luxury selfcatering cottage, sleeps 2. Rural location. Near to major tourist attractions inc Hadrian's Wall.

Tel: 01884 841320

Penrice Castle Gower Creekside Cottages, Near Falmouth, Cornwall Waters-edge, Rural & Village Cottages Sleeping 2-8. Peaceful & Comfortable. Available year round.

Dogs Welcome. Open Fires.

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

COSY COTTAGE IN DEVON SLEEPS 4 1½ MILES FROM THE SEA Available April to October. Regret no pets/smokers.

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

Tel: 01792 391212 www.penricecastle.co.uk

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

Tel: 01789 740360 www.romanacres.com

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

Bed & Breakfast Paignton Seafront 4*AA B&B Cockington Village and Oldway Mansion Gardens & Theatres nearby.

Winter Offers. Visit www.beachesbandb. co.uk 01803 665448 4 Star Gold Award B&B in Stoulton, Worcestershire. Luxury accommodation in beautiful surroundings. Perfectly situated to visit Worcester, The Malvern's, Pershore, Cheltenham and Cotswolds.

01905 841129 www.sunbrae.co.uk Somerset 5* Restaurant with Rooms.

Close to many NT Gardens, Houses and Dorset Coast. Countryside Location with Lovely Garden. Pet Friendly www. littlebarwickhouse.co.uk 01935 423902 Quality B&B Truro Cornwall. Ideal for visiting beautiful cornish gardens and coast. £40 pppn 01872 241081 Paignton, Devon, 4* B&B. Ideal location for coast, countryside and NT gardens. En-suite rooms, garden, parking. Green Tourism Gold Award. www.harbourlodge.co.uk 01803 556932 Charming B&B in garden cottage annex. Double with en-suite. Village location near Jurassic Coast, Bridport.

Tel: 01308 488177 Explore Devon and be spoilt. 2 nights DBB £185 per couple. Farmhouse hospitality. Great trip advisor reports. www.eastraddon-dartmoor.co.uk 01566 783010

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

ANNECOTTERILL

We sell to both individuals and trade. No order too small. Contact us for your free catalogue.

Polytunnels FREE BROCHURE

Mill House Fine Art Publishing, Bellflower Gallery, Market Place, Colyton, Devon EX24 6JS

Tel. 01297 553100 info@millhousefineart.com

www.millhousefineart.com

Tel: 01256 809 640 sales @chicteak.co.uk www.chic-teak.co.uk

Craft & Stationary Paper

Garden Services

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

Wisteria Pruning, renovation, Oxfordshire, surrounding area.

Richard Barrett 01865 452334 wisteriapruning@tiscali.co.uk

Fruit Trees

Adam’s Apples Apple trees from £8 Over 100 varieties Dessert, juicing, cider & cookers to suit your farm, garden or smallholding Many other fruit trees & bushes.

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

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

Garden Buildings Leigh Goodchild Ltd

Garden Buildings

SIMON BUNCE

FdSc Hort. MCI Hort.

01626 836279 / 07903943757 office@merristem.co.uk Garden Design | Tree Services Garden Maintenance Based in Bovey Tracey

www.merristem.co.uk

01363 84948 info@ferrymanpolytunnels.co.uk

www.ferrymanpolytunnels.co.uk

Ex display sheds. Stables, field shelters, garages, summerhouses, offices, workshops/agricultural 01935 891195 Dorset Hazel Hurdles. Made to order

by Alan Brown, Wool, Dorset. 01929 462761 www.brownshurdles.co.uk

ANDREW TOLMAN MALVERN COPPICING

Professional Garden Services

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

Services include Consultations, Garden Design, Borders, Orchards & Meadows. Specialist Pruning; Climbers, Fruit & Topiary.

Supply of Trees, Plants & Bulbs.

Talks on Gardens & Plants.

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

Tel. 01684 574865 Mob. 07443520040 www.malverncoppicing.co.uk NESTING BOXES FEEDERS INSECT HOMES CAMERA NESTBOXES WILDLIFE CAMERAS

Call Leigh 07971 251261 www.leighgoodchild.com

Advertise here...

Drystone Walling and Paving

Call 01278 671037 for details, or email: ava@countrygardener.co.uk

Mortared work also undertaken.

Patrick Houchen - DSWA member.

Tel: 01963 371123 www.yenstonewalling.co.uk

40

Polytunnels from £345 available to view by appointment

Specialist Garden Products

Superior cedar greenhouses by Gabriel Ash. Free survey and quotes; all work undertaken.

...from just £2 per word

Handmade greeting cards encapsulated (pressed) flowers. £3.50 each + postage/packing. 01386 424919

Country Gardener

Quality products carefully made in Britain Tel: 01675 442299 www.nestbox.co.uk

Advertise here... ...from just £2 per word

CLASSIF IED The Hardy Geranium Specialist

Bare-root offer starts January - Free Delivery!

Free catalogue/flyer and guide on request.

Contact Gary Tel: 01684 770 733 Mob: 07500 600 205 Email: gary@cranesbill nursery.com

Storage

Devon Bonsai

www.devonlogstores.co.uk

Springfield Bonsai Nursery, Cheriton Bishop, Exeter, EX6 6JN

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

Open 6 days a week 10am-6pm (Closed Tuesdays) Wide selection of Bonsai, accessories & workshops Telephone 0164724866 Neil’s Mobile 07833247442

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

www.devonbonsai.co.uk

For further details call Nick on 01392 681690

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

www.cranesbillnursery.com

DORSET WATER LILY COMPANY

UK’s largest selection of established, pot grown water lilies; Speciality hardy exotics, tropical waterside, marginals and moisture loving bogside.

Landscaping & Design Service.

Tel: 01935 891668

Email: dorsetwaterlily@uwclub.net

Thornhayes nursery

Wanted/For Sale

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

Wanted Old Radio Valves And Audio Valves. Tel: 02392 251062

Courses, expert advice, arboretum, display fruit garden.

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

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Spring Flowering Bulbs Tulips, Crocus, Narcissus, Hyacinths, Alliums and more Winter Flowering Bedding colour plants ready to add s to your Patio Container and Garden

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

Our Annual Heuchera Festival Saturday 18th 17th & Sunday September Free talk and tour “Behind the Scenes” at 2pm of our Nursery each day of Over 100 varieties a Heuchera, Heucherell and Tiarella

New Season Fruit Bushes early and Trees arriving September See us at the Malvern Autumn Show in the RHS Floral Hall and the team available from Mark Friendly advice always to find plants of unusual and hard ‘Collectors Corner’

Issue No 148 October

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Growers & suppliers of the widest range of Native & Ornamental Trees, Shrubs & Hedging in the West Country

Dulford Nurseries, Dulford, Cullompton, Devon EX15 2BY

Boxed out full colour advertisements are available for an extra £20.

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Our readers say*...

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Country Gardener produces editions covering THE COTSWOLDS, DEVON, DORSET, HAMPSHIRE, SOMERSET and SUSSEX. Available at over 650 LOCATIONS throughout our circulation area.

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GARDEN CENTRE CAFÉ GIFT SHOP Open daily Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm and Sunday 10am - 5pm

Over 400 varieties of rose arriving from December We also stock a wide range of shrubs, herbaceous and bedding plants, containers pots Haddonstone stoneware, tools, seeds, garden sundries and gifts.

See our website for a full programme of Christmas events and details of our 2017 workshops and talks.

CRANBORNE, DORSET BH21 5PP TEL: 01725 517248 www.cranbornegardencentre.co.uk Follow us on Sheds • Fencing • Gates • Furniture • Decking

The Somerlap range of gates offers elegant design combined with sturdy latches, hinges and posts.

GATES FROM JUST

£100.92 (inc. VAT)

Scandinavian kiln dried softwood

Xmas trees available early December.

Contact us for details.

Pressure treated for a long life

Building the bespoke

Meet the Somerlap Team: Steve Fraser

Somerlap have received some unusual requests for bespoke products over the years including one from Puxton Park in 2011, who required shelters for their reindeer. Somerlap were happy to oblige, creating 10 x 15ft shelters especially for Santa’s friends. Five years on the shelters are still in great condition, and Somerlap continues to provide shelters for animals of all sizes!

“I’ve been with Somerlap from the beginning. Somerlap has grown hugely, moving from sawmilling to fencing production at Mark, and my role has progressed with it. From cutting logs to running production, I’ve enjoyed all my roles, and with the support of the staff have relished the success which we have achieved.”

Call Somerlap today on 01278 641671 or buy online at www.somerlap.co.uk 42 Country Gardener_Half page_SOME05.indd

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Cleeve Nursery Everything for your Winter Garden!

Fresh Christmas Trees due in end November Fabulous Gifts & National Garden Gift Vouchers The Box Tree CafĂŠ open 10.30 - 4.00 Every day for tasty food and fantastic coffee!

Cleeve Nursery, Cleeve, Bristol BS49 4PW Tel 01934 832134 Email info@cleevenursery.co.uk www.cleevenursery.co.uk cleevenursery.co.uk/blog/