CLUB NEWS
Alan Titchmarsh In August nursery owner Marcus Dancer gave us an informative and structured talk about this popular climbing plant. Based near Fordingbridge, Marcus has been growing clematis for thirty years as well as shrubs and perennials that he describes as “garden worthy.”
Clematis Fragrant Oberon Clematis grow in a variety of soils, at different times of the year. Evergreen varieties flower in winter or spring, with a surprising number to choose from. The bell shaped flowered ‘Lansdowne Gem’ looks attractive over arches, pergolas and other shrubs, ‘Apple Blossom’ is scented whilst ‘Fragrant Oberon’, flowering from April to June, favours a sheltered spot in small gardens. There are now new types of also ideal for smaller gardens, such as the scented ‘Mayleen’, the double pink ‘Broughton Star’ and the white-petalled ‘Maureen’. Large flowered hybrids flower in spring and in mid to late summer. A spectacular group, with bold colours, they need to be planted deeply. The striped ‘Nelly Moser’ looks lovely in shade, ‘Kiri Te Kanawa’ is a stunning deep blue and ‘Miss Bateman’ a beautiful white. For those of you favouring bell-shaped flowers try the group. In bloom from June to September the s are popular for growing over pergolas and accompanying shrubs and roses. For those of us with Viticella problems it was a relief to learn that if brown leaves form in hot weather plants can “shut down” but are still alive. If by scratching the stem
green is detected, there is hope! Another very useful tip given by Marcus regards treating mildew on clematis. Mix one part full fat milk with eight parts water and spray. This remedy is also good for courgettes. The group seem to thrive on neglect in dry locations. Marcus recommended ‘Paul Farges’ ( ‘Summer Snow’) as a good variety, which bees love and ‘Flammula’ which has a perfume like Jasmine. For something a little different, the do not actually resemble clematis but are hardy herbaceous plants. The sweetly scented bright blue ‘Cassandra’ and the white ‘Sander’ both easily grow in a mixed border. Congratulations go to the winners of the geranium competition in this order; Morag Orchard, Jackie Siburn and Blair Siburn.
Our next meeting, ’, will be held at Chetnole Village Hall at 7.30pm on Visitors, £3, and new members will be welcome.
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