from Molton Monthly Magazine August 2024

Plan for new ‘otter hospital’

1. Most rambling Roses flower just once in summer and as they flower on the old wood they should be pruned after flowering. Thin out one in three of the old stems at the base and tie in new replacement shoots.

2. Apply nematodes for control of vine weevil larvae later this month or early next. Target plants prone to attack, such as Heuchera, Sedum and Primula, especially in containers.

3. Give hardy Geraniums a light trim to encourage another flush of flowers.

4. Lift spring sown onions and shallots once the foliage yellows and topples over. Dry bulbs in a single layer in full sun outdoors, or in a greenhouse or well-ventilated shed.

5. Cut established perennial wildflower meadow. Leaves clippings on the ground for a few days to encourage self-seeding.

In spite of August definitely being a summer month, this is when we begin stocking autumn and winter plants. Winter flowering Pansies, Violas and Cyclamen will all be available later in the month. With spring flowering bulbs available at the end of the month or beginning of September.

Until next month, Jenny Howells