WhatToGrow Spring 2024 Edition

Spring www.whattogrow.co.uk

welcome Editorial Editior James Davis Feature Editor Cheryl Elizabeth Davis CONTRIBUTORS

David Gallacher Jenny Winnard JJ on behalf of Bearded Growers SPECIAL THANKS

Charlotte Daubney - bulbs.co.uk

James Davis

PHOTOGRAPHY

Editor

Pexels/Unsplash/Contributors ADVERTISING

Spring Edition

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Contact 4 Lingfield Road Royston Hertfordshire

Spring, the time to celebrate the vibrant renewal of nature and the joy of getting back out into our own green spaces. As the frost melts away and the earth awakens with the promise of new life.

SG8 9JB

In this issue, we delve into the joy that is spring gardening,

editor@whattogrow.co.uk

offering expert advice, inspiring stories, and practical tips to

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in the articles

From planning your garden layout to selecting the perfect

reflect the author(s) opinions and are not necessarily

plants, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to

the views of the publisher and/or editor. All

create a flourishing oasis of color and vitality.

published material, adverts, articles, editorials and all other content is published in a good faith.

WhatToGrow Magazine cannot guarantee and does not accept liability for any loss or damage of any kind caused by our website or those websites or businesses advertised. WhatToGrow does not accept liability for the accuracy of claims made by the advertisers.

All rights reserved and nothing can be partially or in whole be reprinted or reproduced without a written consent.

help you make the most of this magical time of year.

So grab your gloves and join us as we embark on a journey of growth, discovery, and endless possibilities in the spring garden.

Once again thank you to our contributors for all your efforts.

Keep gardening!

contents 01. Extending the Joy of Amaryllis

pg.4

06. Summer flowering bulbs

pg. 16

02. A Guide to Ground Cherries

pg. 6

07. Gardening jobs for April

pg. 20

03. Garden jobs for March

pg. 10

08. Looking after Spring flowering bulbs

pg. 22

04. March seedsowing

pg. 12

09. Gardening jobs for May

pg. 26

05. Dividing herbaceous perennials

pg. 14

10. Tips for a Successful Allotment

pg. 28

11. The Battle Against Garden Pests Through Time

pg. 30

6 4

14 26

18

20

10

4

WHATTOGROW.CO.UK | REAL GARDENERS - THEIR GARDENS AND ALLOTMENTS

Amaryllis Hardiness Remember, Amaryllis bulbs are not very frosthardy. While they can tolerate a light frost, prolonged freezing temperatures can be fatal. In colder climates, container planting and indoor winter storage are your best bets for enjoying their beauty year after year

REAL GARDENERS - THEIR GARDENS AND ALLOTMENTS | WHATTOGROW.CO.UK

Extending the Joy of Amaryllis: Postflowering Care, Replanting, and Outdoor Adventures

DAVID GALLACHER Follow me on Facebook

The majestic Amaryllis, with its dazzling Christmas blooms, can become more than just a fleeting festive delight. With proper post-flowering care and strategic replanting, you can enjoy their vibrant beauty for years to come.

Here’s a guide to navigate your Amaryllis’ journey beyond the holiday season:

Post-Bloom Care for Replanting 1. Graceful Pruning

2. Hydration and Nourishment

3. Bask in the Sunshine

Once the flowers fade, gently

Continue watering your

Place your Amaryllis in a bright,

remove the flower stalk about

Amaryllis regularly, keeping the

sunny location to encourage

1-2 inches above the bulb. This

soil slightly moist but not soggy.

healthy leaf growth. Sunlight

prevents unnecessary energy

Remember, overwatering

fuels photosynthesis, creating

expenditure and allows the

can be detrimental. Provide

the energy reserves needed for

leaves to focus on nourishing

monthly half-strength

future blooms.

the bulb for future blooms.

houseplant fertilizer to replenish the nutrients used during blooming.

Post-Bloom Care for Replanting 1. Harden Up

2. The Perfect Spot

3. Watering Wisdom

4. Winter Retreat

After the last frost,

Choose a sunny,

Water regularly

In colder climates, dig

gradually acclimate

well-drained location

throughout the

up the bulb before the

your Amaryllis to

with slightly acidic soil

growing season,

first frost and store it

outdoor conditions.

for your Amaryllis.

aiming for moist

indoors as described

Place it in a sheltered

Remember, good

but not soggy soil.

earlier. This winter

spot for increasing

drainage is key to

Mulching around the

slumber ensures its

periods each day for

preventing bulb rot.

base helps retain

survival until spring

about a week. This

moisture and suppress

returns, when you can

hardening process

weeds.

replant it outdoors.

helps the plant adjust to the harsher outdoor environment.

5

6

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REAL GARDENERS - THEIR GARDENS AND ALLOTMENTS | WHATTOGROW.CO.UK

JENNY WINNARD Follow me on Instagram @jenny_ourfamilyallotment

The PHYSALIS, commonly known as the Cape Gooseberry or Ground Cherry The PHYSALIS, commonly known as the Cape

It is a plant I will always grow, peeling back

Gooseberry or Ground Cherry….have you

the fruits protective husk, to reveal the

every eaten one..no? Well, you simply must!

golden round fruit inside is pure joy! Its like

They are so delicious, a mixture of mango,

giving yourself a prize, every time you eat

pineapple, cherry tomato – do you remem-

one, and so it should feel like this, what an

ber the Umbongo drink from the 90’s? to me

achievement to grow something so tasty

they remind me of this! Totally yummy!

that you can’t pick up very easily in many places!

Did you know you can grow them quite easily, as easily as a tomato plant! Sow them and grow them the same way as you would a tomato plant and you won’t go wrong.

Cape Gooseberries gained popularity for their unique flavour and culinary versatility.

They were introduced to the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa, which led to the ‘Cape’ in their common name. The plants golden, lantern-like husk and sweet-tart taste contributed to its appeal. Additionally, Physalis fruits are rich in vitamins and antioxidants.

7

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Things to know about Physalis: Half Hardy perennial Sow Indoors or under glass from February-April Sow Indoors or under glass from February-April – Height 150cm Spread 60cm. Treat this the same as you would a tomato plant. Sow onto moist well draining seed compost and only just cover the seed with sieved soil. Tend to grow better inside (greenhouse) but they can be grown outdoors.

prolific in the fruit production They are prolific in the fruit they produce, last year I was still harvesting them in the greenhouse well into late October early November when all the other greenhouse plants were long gone.

can be grown outdoors They can be grown outdoors, depending on where you are in the country, they will probably do better outdoors if you are in warmer more southernly climates, but that is not going to stop me trying them outdoors this year in my North West Allotment in Wigan! If you do plant them outside, harden them off for a few weeks before planting out, and make sure to only plant out after the risk of frost has passed in your area.

strong plants from tiny seeds The seed is the tiniest seed you can imagine, yet they grow into really strong stemmed robust plants.

They do need support, and climb like a tomato plant, but without the fuss of sucker removal. Last year I used a bamboo cane in the middle of the plant pot (I actually grow them in a builders bucket that I poke drainage holes into) and tied in the stems as they grew, they tend to throw off 4 main strong sems, not too much work at all, they really do look after themselves in all honesty once they have got going.

Happy growing Today, Cape gooseberries are cultivated in various regions globally, and their distinctive appearance and delightful taste continue to make them a unique and sought -after fruit…so why not grow your own, you will have friends and family lining up to try them I promise you!

I got my seeds from www.chilternseeds.co.uk and highly recommend them as a supplier.

11 10

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Jobs for the garden this march W

ith the arrival of spring, an array of tasks beckon, promising both challenge and fulfillment.

March brings forth a tapestry of responsibilities, from pruning dormant trees and shrubs to preparing the soil for the upcoming planting season. Tender seedlings yearn for nurturing hands to transplant them into the warming earth, while perennials eagerly await division and rejuvenation.

You will find yourself meticulously sowing seeds, cultivating early-season crops, and meticulously tending to emerging blooms.

As the days lengthen and the earth awakens, there’s no shortage of tasks to engage the green-thumbed enthusiast, offering not only a bountiful harvest but also a profound connection to the rhythm of nature.

heading out to the garden

1 2 3

Pruning: Trim back any dead or damaged branches from trees, shrubs, and

bushes before new growth begins.

Soil Preparation: Turn over the soil in preparation for planting, adding compost or

organic matter to enrich it.

Planting: Sow seeds indoors for later transplanting, and directly sow

cold-hardy vegetables and flowers outdoors.

4

Dividing Perennials: Split overcrowded perennial plants to promote healthier growth and

5 6 7 8

Weeding: Remove weeds before they have a chance to establish and compete

with your desired plants.

Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around plants to suppress weeds, retain

moisture, and regulate soil temperature.

Fertilising: Feed your plants with a balanced fertiliser to support their growth

and development.

Pests and Diseases: eep an eye out for signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate

action if necessary.

create new plants.

Top gardening jobs this month Plant summer-flowering bulbs Bulbs create a stunning spectacle whether planted in containers or borders, particularly daffodils, snowdrops, and tulips during springtime.

They rank among the simplest and most fulfilling garden flora to cultivate.

REAL GARDENERS - THEIR GARDENS AND ALLOTMENTS | WHATTOGROW.CO.UK

10 11 12

Priming Lawn: If necessary, start preparing your lawn for the growing season by

aerating, overseeding, and fertilising.

9

Starting Seedlings: Begin sowing seeds indoors for warmseason vegetables and flowers that

require a longer growing season.

Installing Supports: Set up trellises, stakes, or other supports for climbing plants before

they start to grow vigorously.

Planning and Designing: Use this time to plan and design your garden layout for

the upcoming season, considering crop rotations and companion planting.

13 14

Tool Maintenance: Clean and sharpen garden tools to ensure they’re ready for the season

ahead.

Watering: Monitor soil moisture levels and water as needed, especially for

newly planted seeds and seedlings.

“

To plant a Garden is to believe in tomorrow.

”

Audrey Hepburn

15

Protecting from Frost: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and protect tender

plants from late frosts with cloches, row covers, or other protective measures.

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Seeds to sow in march It’s that time of year depending on your location ( for sowing outdoor in frost free areas only) to be looking at sowing some annuals for the summer display. In colder areas delay sowing till March.

Here are a few great summer flowering plants you can sow in late January to the end of March in the UK, along with their difficulty level and ideal sowing times: See seed packets for more sowing hints

DAVID GALLACHER Follow me on Facebook

Easy to germinate

cosmos

Nasturtiums

Sunflowers

These cheerful daisy-like flowers

These towering beauties are a classic

These trailing plants produce edible

come in a variety of vibrant colours

symbol of summer. Sow seeds directly

flowers in shades of orange, yellow,

and flower from July to September.

outdoors in a sunny spot after the last

and red. They’re perfect for borders,

Sow seeds directly outdoors in a sunny

frost,or indoor anytime now.

containers, and even salads! Sow

spot after the last frost. Indoors now

seeds directly outdoors in a sunny

as long as frost free.

spot after the last frost. Indoors any time now.

REAL GARDENERS - THEIR GARDENS AND ALLOTMENTS | WHATTOGROW.CO.UK

13

Moderate difficulty

Zinnia

Marigolds

Celosia

These showy flowers come in a wide

These versatile flowers deter pests

These spiky flowers come in a variety

range of colours and sizes. They prefer

and add pops of colour to borders and

of shapes and colours, including

warm weather, so sow seeds indoors

containers. Sow seeds indoors 6-8

cockscombs and plumes. They prefer

4-6 weeks before the last frost. Harden

weeks before the last frost or directly

warm weather, so sow seeds indoors

off seedlings before transplanting them

outdoors in a sunny spot after the last

6-8 weeks before the last frost. Harden

outdoors.

frost.

off seedlings before transplanting them outdoors.

More challenging

Begonias

snapdragons

Petunias

These shade-loving beauties come in a

These tall spikes of flowers come in a

These popular bedding plants come

variety of colours and forms. Sow seeds

variety of colours and are a favourite

in a wide range of colours and bloom

indoors 10-12 weeks before the last

among pollinators. Sow seeds indoors

all summer long. Sow seeds indoors

frost. Begonia seeds are quite small, so

8-10 weeks before the last frost. Harden

8-10 weeks before the last frost. Petunia

be careful not to sow them too thickly.

off seedlings before transplanting them

seeds are also quite small, so be careful

outdoors.

not to sow them too thickly.

No matter what your skill level, there are plenty of summer flowering plants that you can sow in late January to the end of March in the UK. With a little planning and care, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful and colorful display come summertime!

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As winter loosens its grip and spring approaches, February to late March presents a prime opportunity to rejuvenate your garden through the strategic division of herbaceous perennials.

This practice not only propagates existing plants but also invigorates them, leading to flourishing displays throughout the coming season.

Guide to Dividing Selecting Right Herbaceous the Candidates: Perennials in February to Late March DAVID GALLACHER

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Numerous herbaceous perennials benefit from division during this

window. Some prime examples include daylilies, asters, ornamental grasses,

irises, hostas, epimedium, heuchera and strawberry plants to name a few. We Identifying mature clumps exhibiting overcrowding or diminished vigor signifies ideal candidates for revitalisation.

REAL GARDENERS - THEIR GARDENS AND ALLOTMENTS | WHATTOGROW.CO.UK

Choosing the Optimal Technique: The division method varies based on the root structure and overall characteristics of the chosen perennials. Here’s a breakdown of commonly employed techniques.

1. Dig and Pull:

2. Fork it Apart

For plants with smaller

Larger, fibrous-rooted

clumps and fibrous roots,

perennials like daylilies and

such as heuchera and

ornamental grasses benefit

epimedium, simply dig

from the “fork it apart”

them up, gently shake off

method. Insert two garden

excess soil to reveal the root

forks back-to-back into the

system, and carefully pull

clump, push outwards to

apart individual divisions

loosen the root mass, and

containing 3-5 healthy

then gently pry the clump

shoots and roots.

apart into smaller divisions.

3. Sharp Tool Split:

knife for division. Carefully

Plants with woody crowns,

cut through the crown or

such as helleborus, or fleshy

root mass, ensuring each

roots, like delphinium, might

division retains sufficient

necessitate a sharp spade or

shoots and roots.

Dividing like a Pro: 1. Pre-Hydration:

2. Favourable Conditions:

3. Gentle Excavation:

4. Lifting with Care:

Water the chosen perennials

Opt for a cool, cloudy day

Loosen the soil around the

Carefully lift the plant out of

generously the day before

for dividing your perennials.

entire root ball, working

the ground, supporting the

division. This hydrates the

Hot weather can stress the

wider than the foliage, using

root mass beneath with a

root system and facilitates

plants during the process.

a spade or fork to avoid

spade or your hands.

easier digging.

unnecessary root damage.

5. Root Exposure:

6. Strategic Separation:

7. Immediate Replanting:

8. Hydration and Support:

Shake off excess soil to

Employ the chosen division

Prepare planting holes in

Water the newly planted

clearly visualize the root

method, prioritizing

suitable locations, amend

divisions generously

system, enabling accurate

divisions with 3-5 healthy

the soil if necessary, and

and maintain consistent

division.

shoots and adequate roots.

replant the divisions at

moisture for the first

Don’t worry about minor

the same depth they were

few weeks until they are

root damage; the plant will

originally.

well-established. Consider

readily regenerate.

applying a light mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

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WHATTOGROW.CO.UK | REAL GARDENERS - THEIR GARDENS AND ALLOTMENTS

Paeonia Sorbet

Salvia Verticillata Iris Burgemeister

Purple Rain

REAL GARDENERS - THEIR GARDENS AND ALLOTMENTS | WHATTOGROW.CO.UK

12 beautiful summer flowering bulbs you can order today ready for spring planting Summer flowering bulbs are a vibrant

varieties thrive in well-drained soil

addition to any garden, boasting a

and full sun, though there are options

spectacular array of colours, shapes,

available for shadier spots as well. With

and sizes. These bulbs, which include

proper planting and care, these bulbs

varieties like dahlias, lilies, gladioli, and

can multiply and return year after year,

begonias, burst into bloom during the

rewarding gardeners with ever-expanding

warmest months, filling outdoor spaces

patches of beauty. Whether used as focal

with their dazzling displays. Their diverse

points in garden beds, mixed with other

characteristics make them versatile

perennials and annuals in borders, or

options for landscaping, whether you’re

showcased in containers on patios and

aiming for a formal garden with neatly

balconies, summer flowering bulbs add

arranged beds or a more naturalistic

a touch of elegance and exuberance to

setting with wildflower-like bursts of

outdoor spaces, ensuring a season filled

colour. From the towering spires of

with colour and fragrance.

gladioli to the delicate, nodding heads

17

Dahlia Cheyenne Chieftain

Paeonia Sarah Bernhardt

of lilies, each type of bulb brings its own unique charm to the summer garden.

One of the delights of summer flowering bulbs is their ease of cultivation, making them accessible to both novice and experienced gardeners alike. Many

available to buy now from bulbs.co.uk

Paeonia Duchesse De Nemours

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WHATTOGROW.CO.UK | REAL GARDENERS - THEIR GARDENS AND ALLOTMENTS

Dahlia Labyrinth

Lily of the Valley Pink

Dahlia Rosella

Echinacea green Twister

Iris Black Dragon

Iris Champagne Elegance

11 20

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Jobs for the garden this april A

pril gardening marks the eagerly anticipated arrival of spring, where the garden bursts into life after the

dormancy of winter.

With the days growing longer and the soil warming up, April is a time of bustling activity. It’s a month of preparation and anticipation, as beds are cleared, soil is amended, and seeds are sown. From the first delicate shoots of early spring bulbs to the emergence of tender new leaves on trees and shrubs, the garden is alive with promise and potential.

April offers the perfect window for planting cool-season crops like lettuce, spinach, and peas, while also heralding the time to start tender annuals indoors for later transplanting.

keeping you Busy

1 2 3 4

Preparation and Planning: Assessing and planning garden layouts for the upcoming growing

season.

Ordering: It’s time to order seeds, plants, and other gardening supplies ready for

the months ahead Designs and layouts: Get creating or update your garden designs and layouts.

5 6

Turn over garden beds: Turning over garden beds to loosen soil and improve aeration.

Weeds: Keep and eye our for weeds and removing them promptly to

prevent competition for nutrients and space.

7 8

Keep Watering: Watering newly planted seeds, seedlings, and transplants

regularly, keeping the soil moist Planting schedule: Plan for the year ahead by developing a planting schedule.

Supporting your plants: Install supports, trellises, or cages for climbing plants as they grow.

Top gardening jobs this month Sow hardy annuals Outdoor seed sowing presents a straightforward, budget-friendly, and enjoyable method for nurturing new plants. It’s well-suited for a wide range of hardy flowers and vegetables.

9

Divide and transplant: Dividing and transplanting perennials as needed.

10

11

Start summer crops: Tomatoes, peppers, and squash can be sow

Pruning fruit trees: Prune fruit trees, shrubs, and ornamental

12

Bare-root trees: Planting bare-root trees, shrubs, and perennials.

22

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Caring for spring bulbs after flowering

DAVID GALLACHER Follow me on Facebook

Outdoor bulbs Caring for spring bulbs after flowering is crucial for ensuring their future flowering .

Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects:

Deadheading: 1. Generally recommended:

2. Exceptions:

Removing spent flowers (deadheading) encourages the bulb

For some bulbs like crocuses and alliums, you can leave the

to put its energy into growing healthy foliage and bulking up

seed heads if you want them to self-sow and naturalise. Also,

for next year’s flowers.

deadheading daffodils is optional as it doesn’t significantly affect future flowering.

This applies to most common bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. shoots and roots.

Feeding: Continue watering and feeding for 4-6 weeks:

stop feeding once foliage yellows:

Hot weather can stress the plants during the process.

When the foliage naturally dies back and turns yellow,

Even after flowering, the bulb foliage is still busy

discontinue watering and feeding

photosynthesising and storing nutrients for next year.

Apply a balanced fertiliser or a high-potassium fertiliser to support this process.

Cutting back: Don’t cut back foliage early:

Cutting back after foliage yellows:

Resist the urge to cut back the green foliage, even if it looks

Once the foliage is completely yellow and easily pulls away

unsightly. Allow it to die back naturally, as this replenishes

from the bulb, you can cut it back neatly at ground level.

the bulb’s energy reserves.

Compost the healthy foliage, but discard any diseased or infested parts.

Additional tips: Lifting and dividing:

Leaving bulbs in the ground:

Protecting bulbs:

Some bulbs, like daffodils, benefit

Most spring bulbs can simply be left

If you live in a cold climate, consider

from lifting and dividing every 3-4

in the ground year-round, where they

mulching around the bulbs in the

years to prevent overcrowding and

will naturalise and multiply over time.

autumn to protect them from harsh

maintain good flowering. Do this

winter freezes.

when the foliage has yellowed.

Remember, specific needs may vary depending on the type of bulb you have.

By following these simple tips, you can help your spring bulbs thrive and bring you joy for many seasons to come!

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Replanting Indoor Spring Bulbs for Future Blooms

General Replanting After captivating your winter with vibrant flowers, your indoor spring bulbs deserve a second act in your garden.

Timing: Avoid frost

Hardiness:

Watering:

Typically, late spring or early summer is

Research your specific bulb’s hardiness

Maintain regular watering until outdoor

safe, but adjust based on your locale.

zone. Tulips and daffodils, for instance,

planting.

thrive in colder climates, while paperwhites and hyacinths require protection from harsh winters.

Specific Bulb Strategies:

Tulips & Daffodils: Post-bloom: Once foliage yellows, carefully dig and store bulbs in a cool, dry location until planting.

Hyacinths

Paperwhites

Crocuses

Flowering:

Disposable:

Replanting:

Trim flower stalks, but allow

Typically grown for one

Directly plant in sun with well-

foliage to die naturally.

season, though Autumn

drained soil, at a depth of 2-3

replanting is possible

inches, after flowering.

(blooming uncertain).

Replanting: Dig bulbs after foliage dies and store them for autumn

Planting: Choose a sunny, well-drained

planting.

spot. Plant bulbs 6-8 inches deep, pointed end up.

Bonus Professional Tips: Soil improvement:

Watering:

Patience:

Enrich planting soil with compost or

Rehydrate regularly, especially during

If you live in a cold climate, consider

organic matter for optimal drainage

the first weeks after planting.

mulching around the bulbs in the

and fertility.

autumn to protect them from harsh winter freezes.

By following these professional guidelines, you can seamlessly transition your indoor spring bulbs to flourish in your garden. Enjoy their beauty for seasons to come!

11 26

WHATTOGROW.CO.UK | REAL GARDENERS - THEIR GARDENS AND ALLOTMENTS

Jobs for the garden this may

M

ay gardening is a vibrant symphony of colours and scents, where the promise of spring fully

blossoms into lush greenery and vibrant blooms. As temperatures rise and daylight stretches longer, avid gardeners eagerly tend to their plots, nurturing new growth and tending to established plants.

May offers a perfect balance of warmth and moisture, ideal for planting a diverse array of flowers, vegetables, and herbs.

It’s a time of rejuvenation in the garden, with tasks ranging from sowing seeds and transplanting seedlings to pruning, weeding, and mulching.

Whether cultivating a small urban garden or sprawling countryside plot, May provides ample opportunities for gardeners to

Things to keep you Busy

1

Planting: May is a great time for planting many types of plants, including

4

Harvesting: If you have any vegetables or fruits ready for harvest, be sure to pick

annuals, perennials, vegetables, and

them promptly to encourage further

herbs.

production.

2

5 6

Weeding: Regularly remove weeds from your garden beds to prevent them

from competing with your plants for nutrients, water, and sunlight.

3

Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around

Fertilising: Feed your plants with a balanced fertiliser to support healthy growth

and flowering.

Pruning: Deadhead flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming.

your plants to help conserve soil

Prune shrubs and trees as needed to

moisture, suppress weeds, and

maintain shape and remove dead or

regulate soil temperature.

diseased branches.

immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and reap the rewards of their labor as the season unfolds.

Top gardening jobs this month Protect tender plants Protect tender plants from any late frosts with cloches, row covers, or other protective measures. Any late frost could be damaging to tender new growth.

7 8

9

Supporting: Install supports such as stakes, trellises, or cages for tall or vining plants like tomatoes, peas, and cucumbers to help them grow upright and prevent damage.

Planning: Use this time to plan for the coming months.

Composting: Continue to add to your compost pile or bin to

create nutrient-rich compost.

10

Watering As the weather warms up, plants will require more water. Water deeply but less frequently to

encourage deep root growth. Be mindful not to overwater.

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WRITTEN BY JJ ON BEHALF OF BEARDED GROWERS Follow me on Instagram @bearded.growers

Spring into Action: Tips for a Successful Allotment As the days grow longer and the

slugs or aphids, and take prompt action to

temperatures rise, it’s the perfect time for

prevent infestations by companion planting

avid gardeners in the UK to prepare their

or using organic pest control measures.

allotments for a bountiful spring season.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a green

Stay vigilant against unpredictable weather,

fingered novice, these tips will help you

be prepared to cover delicate plants during

make the most of your allotment space.

unexpected frosts or heavy rains. Proper

Start by assessing your plot. Clear away any

watering is essential, especially during dry

debris or weeds that may have accumulated

spells (we can only hope). Aim to water at

over the winter months. This not only tidies

the base of plants in the morning or evening

up the area but also prevents pests and

to minimise evaporation.

diseases from taking hold. Consider rotating your crops to maintain soil health and avoid

Encourage biodiversity by planting

nutrient depletion.

companion crops and flowers that attract beneficial insects. This natural approach can

Spring is obviously the perfect time for

help control pests and promote a healthier

sowing seeds. Choose varieties that thrive

garden ecosystem.

in the UK climate, such as peas, carrots, and lettuce. Follow recommended planting

Remember, allotments are not just about

spacing and timing, this isn’t always as it

the harvest; it’s about the joy of nurturing

says on the packet as it depends on your

plants and connecting with nature. With

geographical location. Consider using a

these tips, your allotment will flourish,

greenhouse or cold frame to give your seeds

providing you with a delightful array of fresh,

a head start and remember to protect them

homegrown produce throughout the spring

from late frosts.

and beyond. Happy gardening!

Mulching is crucial for moisture retention

Bearded Growers are back on air in March.

and weed control. Organic materials like

Listen online, via the Cotswolds Radio app

straw or compost can be applied around

or ask your smart speaker to play Cotswolds

plants to conserve water and suppress

Radio. 7pm - 9pm every Monday from the

unwanted growth. Additionally, regularly

18th of March.

inspect your allotment for signs of pests, like

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WHATTOGROW.CO.UK | REAL GARDENERS - THEIR GARDENS AND ALLOTMENTS

The Battle Against Garden Pests Through Time Over the years I am pretty sure many gardeners have experimented

that interested me was reading how people through different time

and tested many methods in getting rid of those pesky garden pests

periods have dealt with these issues because let’s face it garden

such as insects that eat our flowers, slugs that demolish the leaves

pests have always been a problem to the gardener and farmers.

on plants and birds that eat the fruits from them.

In 1885 an anonymous gardener wrote to a garden magazine stating Dealing with the problem today we can go to the local garden

how to get rid of woodlice using a trap which consisted of 10 inch

center and search the ridiculous amount of brands selling slug

pots which were half filled with dried horse droppings and lay the

pellets, sprays and all sorts of items to scare off birds and potions

droppings where the insects congregate. The gardener advised that

that do the job. How effective they are is another story. One thing

once a week turn the droppings out into the fire and put fresh ones

REAL GARDENERS - THEIR GARDENS AND ALLOTMENTS | WHATTOGROW.CO.UK

in. Continue this process and all will be rid of. The same gardener recommended cold boiled potatoes covered in moss. The gardener would have to check morning and night and transfer the woodlice into a bucket of hot water. The process would have to be repeated but apparently it worked. This idea sounds like a lot of work involved to be honest.

In March 1937 it was reported that dry mustard dusted over plants proved to be successful in getting rid of insect pests. The mixture needed to consist of two teaspoonfuls of mustard to a pint of water and poured around the roots of the plant that had the insects on.

The same person swore by mustard and even encouraged it when growing daffodils. They advised to use mustard as a fertilizer and they will be more vibrant in colour and finer.

A Scottish farmer reported in 1879 that his crops were being destroyed by the devilish slugs and snails. It was only after throwing a heap of carrots near by his crops he found they had gone and left them alone. However, the rotting carrots contained at least 500 snails and slugs.

On facebook this week, a keen gardener has suggested she saves up all her egg shells over the winter period and then crushes them up into a powder which she suggests she puts over her tomato plants suffering from “blossom end rot” and to get rid of the slugs and snails in her garden.

So perhaps if you don’t want to keep using chemical sprays but a more natural environmentally friendly solution to getting rid of garden pests perhaps you could try a few of these methods.

CHERYL DAVIS Follow me on Instagram @FamilyPastUK

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