New Gardening Topic!!

Momac suggested a gardening thread and so here it is!!

Anyone at all, with any growing tips or photos of their current efforts, please post.

I am not an expert by any means, but I love growing fruit and veg and this year, I am having a crack at growing some bedding plants from seed because the cost of buying plants is killing me.

I have my name down for an allotment, and so while despairing at the waiting list, have decided to give over my back lawn this year to raised beds thus hoping for some lovely carrots and parsnips.

I also love growing fruit & veg. Not an expert, trial & error type. My list is plum, pear, damson and 2 apple trees. Red currant, black currant & goosberry bushes. Raspberries & strawberries. I've got a cherry tree but the birds get all the cherries as it is far to large to net over. Grapevine, but not got the time to tend to it properly. Put in my onions and potatoes, will do peas and runner beans later. Pricked out and potted on some tomatoe seedings. Had a disaster a couple of weeks ago - thought I would be clever and mixed some fertilizer with compost for pricking out and potting on tomatoes. Too strong - killed the seedlings - lost 50 plants. Lucky I had a tray of seedlings that I hadn't potted up. Live and learn.

Hello to you all in the greenfinger club ..this is lovely to be able to have chats on gardening..good for you Veggie for starting it off..bit of initiative eh! well to start off,the other week I hunted around for some potato growing bags..and they were all a bit pricey but....Poundland shop have them for guess how muchthey measure 18"high by 45" circumference and they have handles as well, I got three,the potatoes I got from B&Q,but saw them in Poundland as well but I don't know how good they would be...whatever the outcome it's all good fun but I hope mine do taste good.

Nighchap - I am pretty much trial and error myself and I am also lucky to see a ripe cherry. I always seem to do well with pears for some reason, just Conference, but for the last three years they have done really well.

momac - you clearly have an eye for a bargain, I have seen some seed catalogues selling them 3 for £10! You will be able to grow plenty in those and homegrown spuds taste far better than any you can ever buy.

For anyone who is interested The RHS have a great website on flowers, plants etc and in the gardening section there is a bit dedicated to 'Grow Your Own' Here

love your veg

Keep your Kilmarnock willow well trimmed!

Is that one you grew earlier mache?

Seriously, do you do any gardening then?

I did but my hens do it for me now

Chicken poo makes a good fertilizer!

and they dig up things that time team would'nt find

Mac and momac and veg grower

Well done for starting this thread. Our garden has got overgrown but we have been pruning some trees and bushes today with the loppers and the hedge cutters. My arms are killing me.

Twenty years ago I dug all the grass up and made two big curved borders with a gravel path between, but I wish now I just had a big lawn to mow.

Hope your arms are feeling better this morning Mswigan - I know that feeling only too well

I've tidied up the strawbs and put them in tubs and hanging baskets this year. I had them all round the lawn, in between the flowers, but the Blackbirds and Collared Doves seem to like them more than we do.

I have planted a couple of extra Gooseberry and Redcurrant bushes, I seem to do alright with these, but I have to net them or the birds would strip them given a chance.

Temperatures are set to fall, crazy isn't it? Some days in March have felt like summer and I've caught the sun! Will do as much as I can today - who knows, it may be snowing tomorrow.

Bought a tomato planter Yesterday. The Mrs, in her infinite wisdom, gave my greenhouse to the neighbour, but still wants me to grow her vegetation.

More grated Laburnum on your salad, dear?

Mornin` all..have strewn poppy seeds around in tubs this a.m.put petunia seeds in pots on windowsill..cucumber seedlings are coming along nicely..I was looking at the young apple trees down at retail park yesterday full of blossom..I would love one ..owd dave brings me some from his garden but I would love my own..might pop down there tomorrow..my problem is when to stop planting.

Our greenhouse which we bought towards the back end of last year will soon be full of seedling and plants which we overwintered.Trying to grow strawberries from seed this year

Free Tomato Seeds from Dolmio Here

Tomato Seeds is innocent!

hope all you gardeners are using Bulldog Tools and flying the flag for British workers

did,nt no i had a club very busy on the atlotment at this time of year hope you all keeping up with jobs to do , i grew some kale last year never done before still eating it its just like spring cabbage but a bit stronger very nice , give it a go parsnips are in as well as onions and schlotts, i never could spell spuds are in . all plants bought from farmer in southport about 3 inch high caulies brocli sprouts kale cabbage swede beetroot and toms oh and sweet corn . i have red current white and black cherres pear rubbarb , i like to try somthing different every year this year is black salsify any one tried it got any tips , good luck to all you giant veg growers i have no tips for you

greenfingers - Black Salsify is listed in my gardening books as Scorzonera, something of a delicacy Here

Well folks, I'm going to do as much done as poss - The Met Office are forecasting snow for us on Tuesday....

Good thread,we have planted onions,carrots and spuds,a good tip is to grow onions and carrots close together,helps to keep onion and carrot flies away,and save your seeds for next year,our flowers are either from seed or from very small plug plants and grown on,marigolds also help keep onion and carrot flies away,and if you grow rhubarb,split it up every 5 years and replant some more,or give some.
Our flower and some runner beans waiting to go outside.

looked at my climbing roses earlier got greenfly already

Spray with soapy water,use washing up liquid,it sorts the greenfly out and won't harm owt else.

My word spud..you have been busy..and yes I agree with the washing up liquid,according to the news there are quite a lot of ladybirds this year,that should sort the little devils out.

Had to keep stopping mowing the lawn to move ladybirds, there were loads all over the grass.

spud1 - Great pics - you are very organised there. Good tips and the seed of marigolds are very easy to collect.

I have greenfly on the roses too, I always get a lot on the raspberries too, and whitefly.

Mac - I remember you saying you had a big garden last year when one of your trees blew down. What sort of stuff do you grow? Are you a beds and borders type of chap with a potting shed?

It's the Missus who does all the flowers,I do the veg,and spray the weeds,that's another tip,only buy weedkiller in concentrate form,not ready mixed,I use glyphosate,and not the roundup brand,I would.nt be surprised if this isnt banned soon,most other gardening chemicals have been.

Little now she has given away my greenhouse

I will plant some tomatoes, aubergines, cucumbers and the like though.

No potting sheds (I usually sew seeds in the pots they will remain in throughout their lives).

spud1 - I was surprised that they banned Derris (organic mite buster) I don't use anything at all myself, the weeds are a nightmare, but thats what I get for being stubborn. On the upside, its great to watch the blackbirds hunting out snails - of which I have many.

Those small yellow flowers, I don't know what they are called, and they are not buttercups, are taking over my rockery, growing through all the plants and I don't know how to get rid of the little blighters.

mswigan - there are a few different types of buttercup, creeping etc. but I don't think any are flowering yet, maybe this would help you identify your plant.Here

Have bought a little cherry tree this a.m...Morello..does anyone have one,and did you have any success with it...not a day for planting out though is it?.

aye grand, lovely cherries

Ta mache..I meant to get an apple tree..but I just love cherries,suppose I'll have to wait until next year though.

Warning! guard it against blackbirds and wasps

Ta again mache.

momac - I have two cherry trees, but neither of them are Morello, I had a google and found this Gardeners World

Thanks veggie..I'd better make sure the soil is fertile hadn't I..tree growing is a bit new to me,but I'm looking forward to getting a couple more..maybe a plum tree next,have you got one?and how long after planting was it that you got fruit please.

Just had another look on google,and it says that it's best planted in cool weather..so that's smashing isn't it.

momac - the Morello will be fine. I only have one plum, and it is probably only a couple of years old, so I haven't had fruit yet, Victoria is the best one to choose as it is self-fertile (should give details on label that they usually put on trees) Apples and pears are also very easy to grow.

Momac,
Morrello is an acid or sour cherry.It is only suitable for cooking.It is one of the easiest to grow and is suitable for growing in our local climate.I've found that Victoria plum requires annual fruit thinning or it starts biennial fruit bearing.The experts say that it as poor disease resistance but i've got one that is over 20 years old and still going strong.Try growing Damsons, they are easier to grow than Plums .A good variety is Merryweather.

Ta for that veggie..the reason I didn`t get an apple tree is it wasn`t a self pollinater...I`m on a mission now planting trees..at least they won`t need watering as much as all the pots of flowers....ta to you too bluesman..I honestly thought morello was a sweet one..I`ll dip them in honey when I get any..I`ve just planted it now..I never thought of damsons but will have a go at anything including plums and pears...ta both of you.

hi momac,we have a cherry tree,2nd year still no fruit,must be doing something wrong,!!!waiting to hear from you

I love horseradish, has anyone every grown it and if so does it grow from seed?

I pruned the blackcurrant bushes last year for the 1st time,I read what to do,Prune 2/3rds off the branches,we got hardly and fruit last Summer,it should have said,Prune 2/3rds of the branches.

Spud A friend of mine drastically pruned their b'currant bush three years ago, he didn't get a lot of fruit the year after but the 2nd year there was a vast abundance of fruit. So not to worry,you may well be rewarded this year.

organicjacks allottment red rock august 3rd 2011

copy and paste

google or go to u tube you may call and visit me
all are welcome put the sound on for the video 6mins long

jj

erontquay,I now know that they fruit on the 2nd years growth,so there should be lots this summer,I took cuttings,dead easy to do every one took,I don't know the variety but the berries were as big as small grapes.

erontquay - Horseradish - when I had my plot, I bought small cuttings and planted them in the ground. If I grew it again though, I would grow it in a deep container as the plant can spread as it is perennial.

Link

JJ's Link

I'm thrilled to bits..For years my favourite shrub has been Wisteria,I think it's just beautiful,I got one about four years ago but it never flowered..however my son told me how to prune it...I did exactly what he said and lo and behold this morning just glanced at it and it is full of buds.. yippee..I'm really looking forward to seeing it in full bloom.

That's quick momac,they can take up to 7 years to blossom,and your Sons right about the pruning,our Blackcurrants are full of blossom now,lots of fruit this summerI put 3 types of spuds in this year,Rocket, Pentland Javelin and Red Duke of York,since found out that Rocket is'nt much good

I was over the moon with my rocket last year

spud1..it`s my first attempt to properly grow spuds..have only played at it before and I have maris piper and maris peer, I have two bags of compost ready..I hope I have some success.

I've never grown these momac,I only have earlies,usually pentland javelin or ulster sceptre,I have had red duke of york before,their good,very bright red skins,maris peer is an early,maris piper is a late variety

Don't you just feel the urge to get bedding plants in the pots but it's too early yet.

Yes mswigan,am dying to get these seedlings off the windowsills and into pots but as you say it`s too early..I learned my lesson years ago through impatience..we could have frost in April and lose them all..but it will be worth the wait.

After years of dithering I'm trying some Jerusalem Artichokes, anyone grown any of these? A bloke I know has given me some tubers - so today I'll be planting these

'A bloke I know'. (nudge nudge )

Never tried artichokes,

my little grand daughter planted some apple pips about a month ago. 5 all told and we put them in a yogurt pot in the kitchen window and we now have 4 little plants growing she is thrilled to peices dont no if they will come to any thing but every time she comes she looks to see how big they have grown ..

Mac - no wonder They aren't artichokes as you know them they are completely different - a bit like spuds.

rbilly - experts reckon that trees grown from pips won't come to much, but my brother did this with his son and they have a couple of small apple trees (amongst their other few) and they seem to be doing well.

Jerusalem Artichokes,reminds me of Blazing Saddles.
A good tip if you have Moss or Litchen's on your soil,get some Sulphate of Iron and sprinkle it on,it can stain Flags though,it's fine on soil,and kills moss very quickly,and it's cheap.

We have been watching Monty Don's series on Italian gardens..absolutely beautiful..think I'll set fire to my garden..ha ha only kidding..I'm quite happy with what I've got.

Momac - I've been watching that every week. Such a huge difference in all the gardens he visited. I thought the water features were stunning, nothing like that wil ever be built again. I like Monty's style of presenting too - prefer him to Titchmarsh.

Yes veggie..I'm so glad he got over his stroke..I don't think Titchmarsh would have as many followers.

Momac I used to buy all my seeds from netto wilkinsons arent to bad on prices .

momac

Maureen if you want a cherry that is sweet there is one called Stella.

Hya Ann..how are you flower,I seem to get seeds from all over the place,as long as they're not too cheap..have had some good results from Wilkinsons too.

Ta mswigan..as I said further up this thread,I always thought Morello's were sweet,serves me right for not googling beforehand..I will keep my eyes open and probably get one of those as well.. ta again both of you.

As an addition to the usual Courgettes, I am trying some Summer Squash this year 'Sunburst F1' a patty pan type - says they can be picked when very small. Anyone tried any of these? I'd be interested to know what they taste like?

This is an excellent thread from which we all can learn a lot.

Sorry veggie..am not a lover of Courgettes..so I don't know much about them...but it takes all sorts doesn't it,hope someone else can help you.
James..we're glad you are enjoying this thread..and if you have anything to tell us about your garden,we would be interested.

Reminded me of this - til we give our foes a wiggin

Harvester pubs are giving away free seeds For Kids

Hozelock are giving away free Marigold seeds Here

The Big Lunch (order free info pack) also gives free Salad Leaves seeds Here

Companion planting...Plant marigolds in with your vegetables to stop Aphids ravaging them.

Basil drives away flies and mosquitoes.

Chives are often planted among roses to keep aphids away and to resist the disease, Blackspot.

Thanks for that veggie...have sent for marigold seeds..and will take some round to Owd Dave.
Mac..First I've heard about chives..and I have a pot full in garden...ta.

Companion plants - a list

Thanks Mac - thats more detailed than all my books put together.

All those can help reduce the need for chemicals which can do more harm than good.

Having a bonfire tonight to burn all the prunings/rubbish - might throw a few spuds in - pass the salt.

Mmmm!

I don't know what other retailers are selling growbags for this year, but Morrison's have them at 2 for £2-50 (14.4.12). I bought some and they seem good quality unlike some I have had in the past.

Update 15.4 The brand is J Arthur Bowers. I don't use them as grow bags I use the compost in pots for tomatoes etc. I find this easier to control the watering. Tip - for tomatoes fill the pot about about 1 inch shy of the fill level when potting up. When the plants are about 3 foot in height top up the pot to the full fill level to encourage new roots to form ready for fruit growth.

Thanks for that nightchap, not been to Morrison's yet this week. Good to know its good stuff - I despair sometimes with the amount of coconut/conker matter in compost.

A couple of nice days are forecast - then it is back to the rain - so hopefully I can get something done. I've got flags to lay a patio that have been sat there two years - I really need to get my finger out.

There's a new website of Wigan's Inspirational Growing and Allotment Network:

www.wiganallotmentnetwork.org.uk

(From WW Forum )

Have to wash the greenhouse out yet..a couple of years ago Had tomato blight and lost the lot..so used Bordeaux mixture last year..and will use it every year.

A tip an old Irish man gave me, if you like baby carrots, fill a plastic bucket with builders sand & sprinkle the seeds as thick as you want, then cover over with half inch of sand, when the leaves are about 6" high pull them & replace with more seeds,he said you never get carrot fly,but keep watered,Dont forget to put some holes in the bottom,

What's the earliest we can put bedding plants out in the pots.

The beginning of June really - although it is possible to get a touch of frost then. Start hardening them off at the end of May ie: stand them outside during the day and then bring them in before you go to bed for approx 10-14 days and you should be ok. Fleece helps too if you are worried once you have planted them up.

bentlegs - thanks for the tip on the carrots, I haven't tried sand yet. I know lots of people that have trouble with carrots.

Veg grower,plant some marigolds or onions near your carrots,helps keep both onion and carrot fly away.

Carrot flies can only fly about 2 feet high.If you sow your carrots in a tub higher than this you dont get carrot fly grubs in your carrots.You can erect a small fence made out of fleece this will also help, as does sowing them on a windy site,the flies can't cope with the wind.I know it sounds like a wind up but it's not.
.

Not strictly Gardening but in todays Daily Mail. A free copy of Home and Gardens. Telephone 0845 286 3265 Quote 118s for a free copy. No obligation no postage to pay.

Thanks for the posts.

Birdseye are giving veg seeds too on their facebook page Here

I was doing a spot of gardening yesterday when I noticed some of my flowers had died.

As a mark of respect, I went out and tied a member of my family to a lamppost.

I thought I would ad my two pennorth worth, weather being a bit cold and wet:

I say, I say , I say, Why do potatoes make good detectives?...

Because they always keep their eyes peeled.


A weed is a plant that has mastered every survival skill in the book - except for learning how to grow in a straight row.


What do you get if you cross a four-leaf clover with poison-ivy?..

A rash of good luck.


What does the Jolly Green Giant wear to a posh do?...

A three peas suit!


Badum Tssshhhh

got an amarillis at christmas,whitch as just finished flowering, can i save it for next year ?????????????

I'm not well up on them myself, but I found Sarah Raven's site Here

Zippy there is plenty of info. on Google as well.. just type in.. Amaryllis after flowering..

thanks for the info,veg grower n momac.i will have a go.

tom - aww I was posting at the same time as you Looks like you got lost/overlooked.

Do you grow them yourself tom?

Did you get those jokes off, 'dead funny johnny', VG?

No Mac - as predictable as ever - I googled 'gardening jokes'.


♫ ♫ 'This is the dawning of the Age of Asparagus, Age of Asparagus' ♫ ♫

Leaf it aaaat!

I know the weather and forecast aren't great but I think I will have to move my butttomorrow and get something done

Weeds are doing a roaring trade in this weather and I am behind anyway from last year when I had a bad shoulder. The dog has been running all over the place and so I am gonna have to buy some small picket fencing or something similar to keep her off. Found a few strawberry plants I had missed and still have to clear the area for the patio, oh and a load of seeds yet to sow.

Anyone doing anything great this weekend?

ps not a one to use chemicals, I was googling 'organic' and found Garden Organic they have free 'how to' guides to download.

Veggie,I've been doing a bit of weeding this afternoon,not too keen on cool weather though..I must be soft[:D..you sound like your garden is all veggies..all I've got in the veg line is..toms waiting to go out..cucumbers..too many!!and as I said before, potatoes..now it's new to me how to get going with them so I googled it,got some chitted potatoes and waited for them to sprout..kept them in the greenhouse didn't do much sprouting, anyway I've put some of them in the spud bag,and then got to wait for them to start off,then add more compost and put some more spuds in..as I say It's a bit new to me this veggie growing, but am having fun waiting to see what happens..am glad it 's been raining though..my gardens nearly all flagged so there are a lot of tubs to water..am back out the morning..if my stupid back don't play up again.

Hi momac! I wish my garden was full of veggies, roll-on summer eh? Some potatoes take longer to sprout than others - I usually put mine on kitchen windowsill - but some people don't bother chitting at all and just plant them, they still grow, I can't imagine farmers chitting millions of potatoes for weeks before planting can you?

I wouldn't put tomatoes and cucumbers out yet if poss - its a bit early, and they are forecasting cold weather. Also potatoes and tomatoes should be kept away from each other, if at all possible, as they are the same family and share the same diseases - in particular blight - although this doesn't usually affect early potatoes.

Apologies for banging on, but it will save you hassle later

Hi veggie don't apologise..your'e not banging on at all..it's nice just to talk to someone who knows what they're on about..as I said my love of gardening has always been flowers, roses,clematis,dahlias lavender astilbes etc,so veggies of course are new,I have grown tomatoes this last couple of years..I don't keep them anywhere near the potatoes by the way..they're still on the windowsill with the cucumbers 'til the weather warms up..and ta for that site..will have a stroll through afterwards,when we come back from AsdaI have been making my own marmalade for a few years now but from the concentrate..cheat..but have made wine for a long time..mostly banana.been thinking to get my finger out lately and get cracking with some more..elderberry is delish,but very hard to find around here..made raisin and potato wine which if? you get it right is as strong as whiskey..oh, and I paint as well..I will tell you what happened when my toms got the blight veggie later on..must go now.m.

Here I am again veggie..a couple of years ago,I'd gone into the greenhouse to water the toms and everything was fine, went back in the afternoon to check and they had all shrivelled up..straight away my arms started itching because I had touched them..later on I had a rash everywhere except my face!!to cut a very long story short it was Lichen Planus..from the fungus and it lasts for eighteen flipping months and lowers your immune system so if you have any signs, get wrapped up before you touch them and don't breath on those spores.

That sounds nasty Momac - hope it hasn't left you with any scarring. Funny you should mention it as I don't like touching tomato foliage because it stinks and the smell stays on your fingers.

I'm not big on flowers, so you'll have to let me know what you do with your dahlias, I have my Grandad's old gardening books, but it is always good to hear advice from others. I have sown quite a few and I'm goin to pot them up but not sure after that, anyway thats a few weeks off yet. I'm also growing petunias for the first time. The cost of them at garden centres is a killer so I am hoping to save quite a bit of money this year.

Hi veggie...no to your question on leaving any scarring thank God...Dahlias,the first time I got dahlia corms I thought looked like something out of quatermass..anyway after reading up,the corms go in and the woody stem has be uppermost..it seems that a lot of people have ask..mind you it's my first year at growing them,so I'm still hoping..I do try and keep seeds from whatever plants I can..have just planted nasturtiums in window box and given some that were grown from last years seeds,they can get a lot of black fly though..poppies are just showing so.....clematis is my favourite,there's montana around the front door and climbing round the shed,but the base of it has got very woody so it's probably the last year I'll keep it..last summer it was around the archway in back garden but it was that heavy all the lot collapsed,we could not untangle it so it all went arch and all..just got a new one..only the metal one and a couple more clematis that seem to be thriving,do you like houseplants as well veggie?.

Thanks for the vegetable gardening too, I have bookmarked it..it looks very interesting.

momac - house plants aren't really my thing, thats not to say I wouldn't have them - I guess its just a matter of finding the ones I like.


Right, definately need to get a move on with the back otherwise it'll never be done. My brother said he will give me a lift with the patio - which is good because I wasn't looking forward to dropping the flags myself and he's done it before.

I have been sowing sunflower seeds and sweet peas in loo rolls, finished potting up the strawberries. Planted the last gooseberry bush, and stil got loads to do.....

ps - has anyone grown Aubergines successfully?? I manage to grow them but I have never had any fruit off them

Veggie..hope you got your patio done,it's jolly hard work but I bet it looks lovely.

momac - no patio yet - I've not even cleared the area. My son is on about getting someone in to do it - I said yeah if you're gonna pay for it.

Just fed the birds, got a large bag of seed from Poundstretcher £1.79 - just hope the cat next door stays away.

Veggie..that is a shame..and it's difficult to find anyone who will do it at a low cost..am sorry about that.
As I said on a previous thread we have a cat..luckily he's more content being indoors,than go after birds..but he once got a mouse..I shouted at him so loud he dropped it..I just cannot see any animal hurt and in pain..it just disturbs me..if you can get the chance when you see the cat throw some water at it or have a water pistol ready, they are cruel little buggers I know.I hope you get something sorted soon as regarding the patio.

Mi spuds are showing,this rain will suit them,then Sunshine in the merry month of May.

how deep should l plant my potatoes?- The frost is just leaving the ground here in Sudbury On. l enjoy this thread.

That's great spud1..I'm still waiting,it's my first time really for spuds and I planted them in a spud bag..I keep having a peep every morning to see if there's anything happening.

Marsin..veggie will tell you how deep..she's been growing veggies longer than me.

Spud..showing my ignorance you can tell Marsin how deep to plant them can.t you..

Anybody got any water lillies - my garden is just one big lake after all this rain. Spuds - mine are breaking through now.

Marsin - if you are growing them in the ground then dig a trench, not too deep, about half a foot deep and pop them in with their eyes (tiny shoots) point upwards, you can do a double row and stagger them zigzag fashion. Fill in the trench, and then as they grow, earth up the soil around the stems - you usually do this two or three times - although you can use grass cuttings instead.

If you are growing in a bag or tub, fill it a 3rd full of compost or good soil and pop a few potatoes in and just cover them, then when they have grown abit, same as before, pack more compost/soil around the stems without actually covering the tops. This exludes the light and prevents potatoes going green.

Toby Buckland In The Ground

Monty Don In A Bag

Prefer Toby Buckland meself...

Do as Veggie says,if you have more than one row,leave about 2ft between rows,seed spuds are best about as big as an hens egg,any real big ones can be cut in half,I don't take any eyes off earlies,because I like plenty of small spuds.

Nightchap - you could diversify and invest in a few ducks and geese......

tom - I agree, Rachel de Thame is a Toffee Nosed Tart I have never seen her get her hands dirty yet.

To be fair, I don't mind Joe or Monty, but Toby was so enthusiastic and he knows more about veg growing and anything else for that matter, than all the others including Alan Titchmarsh. He was very practical - a bit like Geoff Hamilton was.

I was glad when Alys got her own show 'The Edible Garden' a few years ago, it was like a breath of fresh air.

Do you like growing anything then?

Veg grower - don't think the ducks and geese would survive for long with my dog !

thank you momac, veg grower and spud1 just plant some in a tub, will plant some more in the ground next week-when it gets warmer. l have a lot of jerusalem artichokes, they multiply like weeds. they have a nice yellow flower, l use them as a back border. makes a nice cream of jerusalem artichoke soup.

Marsin - Here is a link for Ontario planting dates - as you are in a different climate to us. OMAFRA

I don't know if you are able to access that link, but if you can't - OMAFRA is the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and their site gives a guide of last frosts etc and what to plant and when.

Joe Swift drives me bonkers with his overuse of the word !Designer! it's practically every other word he uses..and yes bring Toby back..and Alys,even if she does eat everything she grows.

thanks veg grower..l called the Ministry and ordered the planting guide.

Well, I can see nowt is gonna get done today....

Blowing a gale all night and I've been awake since 4am, its not good is it?

Hope you've had your feet up veggie..I've not done so much today either with this miserable weather..the sunshine should be just around the corner..yippee.

It's a good forecast for tomorrow. 17 apparently.

inches of rain or temperature

mache lol

Good morning guys and gals.

I am currently writing a list of jobs for my son to do when he wakes up - I WILL have my patio before weekend! Well, I can live in hope...

Doesn't the sunshine make you feel so much better?

A forecast for the week ahead - doesn't look too bad BBC Weather

Good afternoon veggie..what a gorgeous day it's been..hope you can get your son to help you with the patio,let's hope this sunshine carries on throughout next week as well..I must be soft..I do not like the cold at all.

Momac - I know what you mean, its been freezing the last few days, especially with that wind.

For anyone interested Friends Of The Earth are giving away free 'bee friendly' wild flower seeds..

Here

I've read that somewhere else

I Have a Beautiful Patio...I go and sit out there when I want to remember the ex.

I'll tell him

You'll have to shout through the patio flags.

I'm really getting bored with this weather now..think I'll flit.

I'ts raining these in Japan

momac and everyone I am dying to get out in the garden but the weather is shocking. It's so changeable.

Got a greenhouse full of seedlings ready to put into garden but too cold and wet yet.

I remember in March, it was beautiful, I was out in T-Shirts.

Just glad that wind has dropped, its a beautiful morning and a forecast for 17C later on.....

Was feeling quite under the weather this morning-until that is I read the jokes from Mac and Veg Grower and now I've had a thoroughly good laugh I feel much, much better. thank you.

You're welcome james. Please feel free to add any gardening tips, jokes, or indeed, anything else, we'd love to hear them.

Well that's it..tomatoes potted up in greenhouse..and cucumbers..hope and pray now for the the weather to stay something like..if I'm jumping the gun it's my own fault..spud bags all sorted-4 of them..will be eating them til next Christmas..hopefully..hello sunshine good bye rain.

Weather

A few cloudy days and then rain to start next week. It is forecasting a frost tonight I had the fire on last night, I were freeeeeezin

Hopefully I'll get a lot done this weekend, got lots to sow and pot up.

Just been watching the birds in the garden, they were chattering away and flying about, none of them going for the food, its as if the mother is telling them what to do, because they only go for the food after everything has calmed down - its like they're at school and quite funny to watch.

Oo-er,frost and cold nights forecast,what was that about it being my own fault for jumping the gun..I think the fleece will be coming out again.

Momac - I would imagine you would be fine with the fleece. The temperatures they give can vary, and the worst places are open fields and allotments. Built-up areas are considerably warmer. Have you got anything good planned for the weekend? At least it should be dry.

I have some Gladioli coming up but the dog is jumping all over the place - miraculously they came up last year - so there is a tip for dog proof plants folks.

Not done anything, I've had too much paperwork, but will crack-on tomorrow - before that dreaded rain on Monday...

Veggie..nothing planned for the weekend sadly, except going to Arbour Lane garden centre to find some begonias for a couple of troughs in the back garden,I usually get them there..not too expensive and always give a good show..if I had more room I would grow everything from seed,but alas I've not.
Yes I think it will be ok with fleece, as you say it's pretty much warmer in built up areas.

I once read that lots of plants actually thrive the more they are buffeted about..it imitates the wind or something like that..so I wouldn't bother about your little Collie..as I said before,wish I still had mine.

♫ ♫ 'Oh, What A Beautiful Morning...' ♫ ♫

Well, I think we missed that frost...

Fed the birds - that seed is going very quick this year, but we have had it mild, maybe there has been a surge in the avian population....

Jeyes Fluid on sale at Lidl,£5.49 a litre,very cheap that,you will have to be quick,it won't last long at that price.

Thanks Spud..I just love the smell of that...great for putting down the outside drains and many more purposes.

daffoldils are my favourite flower. Went to the garden center yesterday and bought 5 big plant pots full.
My favorite time to visit Wigan is march when all the daffodils and bluebells are out.

Yesterday at 6-00am outside temp 1c ground full of frost but seedlings ok in greenhouse not planting out yet

spud1 - thanks for that, I've told folk I know who use Jeyes to clean their greenhouses. I remember the first time I ever smelled it, talk about clearing your airways...

marsin - daffodils are beautiful and are a great investment as they spread a little further every year. They come in so many different shades and sizes too.

Marsin,daffodils were my Mams favourite flower..I've never had any growing in my garden but the display this year around the countryside have made me think twice..they look beautiful when they're in clusters.

Momac - how are your plants in the greenhouse, I didn't think there was much of a frost. Wish I had a proper greenhouse - my brother may be getting rid of his so fingers crossed.

Veggie,so far so good..I'm keeping an eye on them though..I got one of those little weather stations last year from Lidl's and it's been very handy for keeping an eye on the temperature,as for greenhouses..I never seemed to be able to afford one but my eldest son bought me one about four years ago,it's only a small one from B&Q but it's fine by me..A pity we didn't have this conversation a couple of years back,my brother-in-law wanted to get rid of two big ones..but my garden wasn't big enough to hold one..alas I can't ask him now,he had a heart attack at the wheel and crashed his car..but if I hear of anyone getting rid of theirs I will certainly let you know.. fingers crossed.

momac, my mother also liked her daffodils, she kept an eye on them the day and night before Mothering sunday and still people would manage to pick some for their Mothers. l have tried for years but somehow have had no luck in growing them.

marsin,did you plant the Daffs deep enough,they need to be at least 4inches deep,otherwise they will come up blind,no flowers only leaves.

thanks spud1, usually -every year- l keep the daffodils in the pots, in the shed, until the onset of cold weather in octoberish, then l plant them deep, l maybe planting them too deep. We get winter temps of -30/-40c so put about a foot of leaves on all my plants. should l be taking them out of the plant pots after flowering? Have absolutely no luck with garlic also!!

Marsin - I had a good google and I think they would probably be better left in the ground - after dying down, as it may be a shock to their system being put into cold earth. It seems that daffodils grow wild where you are, I hope you can see the link Sudbury Star

Are you buying more garden chemicals than you actually need? We’ve found some weed and bug killers that claim to be for different purposes, but are actually identical in all but name.

So the Which? Gardening team headed for a garden centre and picked up three products from William Sinclair – Nettle Killer, Bramble Killer and Deep Root Ultra Path & Patio Weedkiller.

Despite nettles being rather different from brambles and deep-rooted weeds, all three of these bottles contained exactly the same concentration of the active ingredient, glyphosate.

Next to come under scrutiny were two products claiming to rid your beds of pesky bugs – Growing Success Fruit & Veg Bug Killer and Growing Success Shrub & Flower Bug Killer. Both contained identical amounts of pyrethrum, according to the labels.

Continuing with this trend, we found that big-name Bayer’s Path Weedkiller Concentrate and Long Lasting Ground Clear have the same formulation. And it’s the same story with RoundUp Weedkiller and RoundUp XL Tough & Deep Root Weedkiller ready-to-use spray

Taken from Which magazine March 2012.

erontquay,Rosate 36 is the only weedkiller you need very concentrated glyphosate,and a lot cheaper.

ver grower, thanks for article..l will definately go for a drive to see the daffodils.
Kagawong is 110 miles west from me.
we have a camp on Mc Charles Lake just 30 miles from here and l have lots of daffodils growing there.. but in town no luck. will have a chat with the lady running the daff show on the Island.

marsin Where do you live? Just interested to know.

Hi mswigan, Have lived in Sudbury ON. for 46 yrs.

marsin Just Googled Sudbury. It looks lovely. -30 in Winter. Is it hot in Summer and can you grow anything that you like. Do you grow any veg.

Well, its a beautiful morning, but there is a forecast of rain for later.

I have noticed a thrush in the garden the last few days (I assume it is the same one coming back) she was eating some grapes I had put out that were past their best. So I'm hoping to get a pic of her today, along with all the others of course

PS: The RSPB, besides being a brillint site, has a free booklet of garden birds that you can send for Click Here

I don't use chemicals on my veggies or flowers. I heard a gardener on t.v. (can't remember her name, but she has a very broad Lancashire accent) say that the secret to weed free beds is tight planting. I've managed to achieve this over the past couple of years in my raised beds in my garden, and they look full and healthy! I have fruit bushes planted in these beds too. The best fruiter is a Worcester Berry bush. It is laden every year, but is also a favourite with caterpillars (cabbage white I think) which have already started munching on the leaves! A neighbour kindly lets me use his allotment.My spuds are coming along well. I've started off loads of seedlings - planted some rainbow carrot seeds this year, so can't wait for them. Love this time of year when everythings starting off again!

Maxine - great tip about the tight planting. Great to hear you have the use of an allotment - I despair that I ever gave mine up. I've never tried Worcester Berries - am I right in thinking that they are thornless?

Rainbow carrots are great if you have kids - really gets them interested.

I think the lady you mentioned was Christine Walkden, she is so enthusiastic about gardening, its a shame she isn't on the telly more...Christine Walkden

Yes that's her, I love her she's a "real" gardener and you could relate to what she said. I did have my own allotment at Bamfurlong but it was a council one and when we took it over it hadn't been worked for years and the weeds were literally shoulder height. The council would do nothing to help get it started for me, the ground was so hard even a rotovator was difficult to use on it! I worked hard on it for four years, I made it totally organic, even putting in a little pond for frogs and a wildlife friendly hedge, but it was really, really hard work keeping on top of it, and I made the sad decision to give it up as I could not put in the hours that were needed and the council were really quick to send you warning letters if you let it slip a little. I made raised beds in my back yard, all around the circumference and filled them with allsorts of plants and put my fruit bushes in there.I put my strawberries in hanging baskets and my herbs in old chimney pots. My neighbour said I could used his massive double greenhouse and the area in front of it. I made five really big raised beds and one smaller one for the area outside and to be honest I got as much produce from the greenhouses and raised beds as I did from my old allotment. It is so close to my house that I can make a cup of tea and take it with me! For me that has made the difference, being able to "nip" for ten minutes if I want to,instead of HAVING to go there for three hours at a time. The Worcester berry is very thorny, but the berries are absolutely beautiful.I'm totally addicted, and with the job I do I deal with a lot of old Irish men who give me advice and tips on what to plant and when!!

I use washing up liquid in my sprayer,it kills greenfly and other bugs,but does no harm to other things.

I have enormous potatoes!

Maxine..I thought she was great too..from East Lancs,she's still going around doing lectures..and her old chum and neighbour Reg died ..I really looked forward to her series,wish she'd come back..except for Monty Don I'm a bit bored with the ones on now..Christine used to tell us about gardening with a big 'G' not fripperies as is the norm now.

The problem with TV nowadays is that everyone has to conform to a certain stereotype - heaven forbid if you gain a few pounds or forget to put the lippy on.

Christine did have a show on BBC2 a couple of years ago - I remember laughing at her siphoning the water from her bath to the garden in an effort to conserve water - you wouldn't catch Rachel de Thame sucking on a piece of hose in a million years...

tip for getting seeds started if you dont have a greenhouse..
old glass fish tank with cling film over the top with one or two small holes in it.. leave it in the sun (high up if youve got animals that like digging) and within the week you will have lovely sprouting. i did this n within 3 weeks my flowers were ready for the hanging baskets...

remember if its hot thought to keep watering you dont wanna cook the plants :)

Hi Kylie - thats a great tip, thanks for posting.

I was reading earlier of how you had managed to trace your family - congratulations.

Kylie..only just noticed,you live in County Clare..that's where My grandma came from..I believe it's beautiful.

P.S. thanks for the tip,that's a good one.

"you wouldn't catch Rachel de Thame sucking on a piece of hose in a million years."

I will pay her extra.

Pffft...

I mix very small seeds with finely sifted soil,you can also mix seeds into ordinary wallpaper paste,put it in a polythene bag,cut a corner off,and squeeze the mixture where you want.

thanks veg grower im super exited to finally be in touch with her :)
momac is beautiful here just very rocky so not fantastic for growing plants lots of baskets n window boxes in order lol :)

spud1 - thats a good idea, most seeds are fiddly at the best of times. I'm trying spraying the greenfly and whitefly like you suggested - they're all over the roses and raspberries.

Morning Momac

Looks like we're all in for a nice weekend.......BBC Weather

If you are using wallpaper paste as an aid to sowing seeds.I've seen it written somewhere that you should use paste without a fungicide in it. Fungicide probably stops the seeds germinating.

bluesman said,

If you are using wallpaper paste as an aid to sowing seeds.I've seen it written somewhere that you should use paste without a fungicide in it. Fungicide probably stops the seeds germinating.

That's why I said ordinary paste,this does'nt have any fungicide,it says on the packet if it contains fungicide,I should have said without fungicide,not everyone knows what ordinary paste is,at one time there was'nt any fungicide in wallpaper paste.

I know how to grow dried peas

Afternoon Veggie,,it's a bit blowey now but tomorrow I'm putting petunias in a couple of baskets..and begonias in window box..it's time we got some nice warm sunshine..I'll tell you a little true story about sunshine,there's a shop near us run by Mr& Mrs Singh..they've just come home from a holiday in India,and when I called in asked Mrs Singh if she'd had a nice break..yes she said rolling back her watch on her wrist..see I got a bit of sunburn..you can tell where my watch has been,I smiled about it for ages afterwards..she's as brown as a berry to start off with...back to gardening..looking forward to tomorrows planting out.

monster mache - have you been watching Alys Fowler on the telly? When she had that edible garden programme on BBC2 she used a packet of dried peas for growing. I was shocked - I thought those peas were only fit for mushin

I grew my peas from a packet of dried peas last year! I placed them on damp kitchen roll in a dish until they started to sprout, then planted them. They did very well, and were really tasty. It was an experiment really after I found a packet in the kitchen cupboard. I'll be doing the same this year!

Right, thats it - no more Mr Fothergills £2.89, I'm buying boxes of dried peys...

I think you can buy them loose too in greengrocers...

Might be an idea to compare sowing, growing and tasting - I think I'll give that a go.

Just on the off chance that somebody may want it before I chop it up. I have a sycamore tree about 12 feet tall that was pot grown ( some roots escaped ). Could possibly be transported on a large car with roof bars. Also a couple of conker saplings that the local squirrel planted in my garden pots about 3 feet tall.

Location Abram

]

nightchap - I would have them off you, but I'm not sure I have the room. I hate to see trees die... I hope someone will take them - let us know if they don't.

Well, its a beautiful morning, and it feels warmer than yesterday already. Potted up some tomatoes and aubergines last night and sowed some final sunflowers. I'm a bit late with everything this year, but the later sowing seems to have produced, bigger and sturdier plants. If I have a successful year I may do the same next year.

Last year, I tucked a small woven basket into the centre of a holly bush that grows through the fence from next door, hoping a wee bird would make use of it. Yesterday I had a quick peek and saw that the basket had been covered with grass and twigs, so we may have a family in there.

nightchap - I've just had a thought, would a school not like them or maybe they could be planted in a park. A bit of a long shot I guess...

VG - I don't like destroying trees - it seems such a waste. I will hang on to them for as long as I can in the hope that they may be of use to somebody.

It looks as though I will not have any damsons this year - first time in 20+ years that it has not fruited. I think the late frost that we had did it, as many of the cherry flower blossoms have failed to set.

Shame about the damsons. My cherries have just finished flowering, so I will keep my eye on them. I had a strange spring last year in that it seemed as if the apples, pear and cherries all blossomed at once - but we had a harsher winter before the spring...

My Raspberries have died back from the tip this year, they often fruit until Christmas and they have been great fruiters, so I'm gonna have another look at them this afternoon (they are less than 5 years old, so it isn't the age of them) a bit gutted about that. I didn't prune the Blackcurrant last year, and so that isn't looking its best. The Asparagus that I planted last year is nowhere to be seen - the dog's paws I think.... On the plus side my redcurrants are doing a roaring trade, the Gooseberries are doing well and the apple blossom is beautiful.

I've managed to put a photo of the tree on the first post I did.

Here are some other random photos.

Veg patch



Raspberries


Red Currants



Currant Bushes (red/black)

[IMG]

Fruit trees



Strawberries (greenhouse )



Grapes



Tomatoes



Well thats my patch, hope to see others on here.

Nightchap..your garden looks great, and enough work to keep you out of troubleI'd love to have a go at grapes if I had a bigger greenhouse..I just love 'em,you seem to have an allotment all of your very own in your garden..good on you.

Thanks momac - Too much work to keep on top of it all. Just don't have the time to look after the grapes as I should. It can grow as much as 15 feet in a year and my greenhouse is only 7' 6" long ! It usually escapes through any gaps and has broken a number of panes of glass over the years. The variety is Black Hamburg.

my black hamburg grows on a north faceing wall and is excellent put it there for summer decoration only but still produces super grapes

Hi Nightchap..I'll have a look out out for those..grapes that grow that much are not to be sniffed at,thanks very much.

Nightchap - those are great pics, thanks for posting them, given me one or two ideas there.

can any of ye tall me what these flowers are i found d seeds planted dem n dont have a clue what they are

Hopefully Momac or someone will be along in a bit and let you know what they are - I'm not great with flowers. I bet that basket will be beautiful when in full flower.

They look like petunias to me!

nightchap, love your garden!

They look like Busy Lizzies {Impatiens]

Yes, I agree with bluesman, ignore me .... lol

They are right Kylie..they are Bizzie Lizzie's..They need a lot of watering.. and when in full flower are very pretty..

thanks guys my eldest grew them in school 2 years ago and the plant left seeds all over my window sill so i scooped them up n put them in a bag planted them this year and have them again :)... the old ones mite have still been living if my chickens didnt get to them lol....

Oops..just noticed I spelt busy wrong.

Wear nott bovvered bowt spellin mstakes on eer Momac...

Morning Campers...Hi-De-Hi..

Hammered it down last night so glad I cut the grass. Hoping the rain will bring it back to life - its all lumpy and bumpy after winter, I think it needs a good aerating and top-dressing.

Had a nice surprise yesterday, I thought my wild garlic had died off, but found it flowering in a couple of places - miles away from where I planted it in the first place, and the tiny white flowers are beautiful..

Sunshine and showers today....

i-grow

Veggie,your wild garlic won't go away now..this time next year you'll be pulling it up from everywhere ..it grows like there's no tomorrow..I know of some chefs that use nothing else but the wild stuff..but it does as you say look very pretty..got ours from a trip to Yorkshire so you can imagine what the boot smelled like for ages.

Mac - I wonder if that is aimed at rich folk? They don't mention the price. It is a great idea though - especially for those who don't have a garden or can no longer manage to do any gardening, or would like an idea of what is involved.

Momac - I have been looking up Wild Garlic and apparently you can eat the whole plant - not that you would all at once like. A great Garlic substitute, not quite as strong. The flowers are beautiful and I was tempted to cut them, but I don't have enough of it yet.

Well, its been lashing it down and we have had hailstone too, still, its a lovely evening....

Today I potted up some Nasturtium seedlings and decided to read up about them when I came home from the allotment. Can't believe I did something good by accident!!

http://igrowveg.com/2010/07/5-reasons-why-you-should-grow-nasturtiums-near-vegetables/ ..... sorry can't do links!

Nasturtium link

Thankyou Mac

Great tip Maxine - I have grown them once or twice and they are the easiest thing to grow - will keep the blackfly off your beans. I knew the flowers and leaves were edible, but I haven't tried them yet

Starlings are making a right racket in the back, as I have just put some food out - noisy beggars

Glorious sunshine for today folks, so make the most of it because its back to rain tomorrow.

I will keep putting Nasturtiums in the window box.. and I don't know why as they get full of black aphids ..I should just put them near a rose tree, they will keep them from going on the roses.

Just dug up about 5 lbs of Jerusalem Artichokes.. will make some chips for our tea with them and the rest in soup tomorrow. My potatoes are 'up' about 6". l will put some compost round later. they have beautiful dark green leaves. will plant some more later today...temp only 10c today with a cold wind.

Marsin - - do you leave a few in the ground to carry on growing, or do you plant them in a different place every year?

veg grower, l just leave some in the ground. they will grow about 5' and have a nice yellow flower. My next door neighbour just washes them and eats them raw- like a raw potato!!!

Raw?? I have only ever heard of people roasting them. I daresay you can do anything that you do with a potato. I can't wait to try some of mine. Luckily they don't get the blight that potatoes get.

That's something I've never thought about..but they sound jolly good.

Well, the weather is set to pick up from tomorrow BBC Weather

Planting a few tumbling tomatoes in a window box with some flowers, I haven't grown that many this year as there is only me that eats them. I used to sow far too many things years ago, now I just sow what I know I will use and a bit extra - that way I have room for everything. Growing potatoes in bags/tubs saves a lot of room in the garden too - best thing I ever did.

For those with a tiny garden or beginners who aren't sure whether to take the plunge into growing veg in their garden there is Square Foot Gardening

Another Example

Free Seeds For Kids

I am growing an upside down tumbler this year for the first time.

It is suffering from lack of sun light so this years performance is probably not a good indicator: it has rained here every day since 1st April, and May temps are below January's.

Priscus - I've never tried those, I see a lot of them about, you'll have to let us know how it goes on. They have said the weather will pick up, so hopefully we'll all see some sunshine.

may interest readers of this thread

I reckon a couple of those in a greenhouse would go down well.

Well, its not warmed up yet has it? Cold with only a T-shirt on...

Sowing some carrots, Autumn King which will be a bit longer than I usually grow. I usually stick to Baby/Finger carrots or Chantenays, but my son bought me these Autumn King - they were going cheap at Poundstretcher.

Also sowing some peas, beans, mixed salad leaves and radishes.

A technique to use with long carrots, (comes from John & Sally Seymoor: 'The Self-sufficient Gardener')

I have used it with the variety: 'Valery'.

Drive a crowbar, or similar into the ground. Move the top in a circle, to leave a conical shaped hole upon removal. Fill with mixture of compost and sharp sand, into which carrot is planted.

I will give that a go Priscus, when I moved in here it was heavy clay and although I have managed to grow carrots, these ones are a bit longer so will benefit from growing as you suggest.

whats best for getting rid of nettles ,my neighbours "garden" is full of em and they have crept under the fence

I agree with TOM it is always best to dig them out. A lot of people spray - only for them to return.

Personally, I keep a very small patch for the bees and butterflies in a corner where I don't mind digging away at now and again. Only a small clump, next to a few other native wild plants, such as dogrose and I also leave a few buttercups and dandelions too.

ps: young leaves on dandelions are nice in salads and their roots are useful too....

BBC Dandelion Recipes

and nettle soup

dandelion and burdock

Been looking on google at nettle wine,it sounds very nice and easy to make..am going out with a couple of bags and gloves in future just in case I see some.Mind you it's time I shaped meself and made the normal banana wine.

Momac - don't get me on the wine.. You will have to post details on that banana wine.

I'm thinking of trying Elderflower Wine, the flowers will be out in a bit. I meant to give it a go last year but I was having some work done in the kitchen and didn't get round to it. I will look up that nettle wine you mentioned. Never get nowt done at this rate...

tom - thats a great tip, I saw Alys Fowler mauling about with the stuff on her 'Edible Garden' programme - her eyes were watering when she tok the lid off the tub.

BBC Weather Forecast

Well, last night was the first night I didn't have the fire on. Back door open til it went dark.

I'm shifting some soil today in preparation for my patio, will dig the surplus into the borders at the back which are looking decidedly flat with the dog jumping all over the place.

Nightchap - the majority of my cherry blossoms didn't set either, I can only see the odd one here and there, won't have as many pears this year either. The apples look more promising though.

Well saying that at one time I only had flowers in the garden..I'm chuffed now..got potatoes in bags..rhubarb on the go first planted last year..strawberries in hanging baskets..toms and cucumber in greenhouse.. only one runner bean planted this year,and yesterday planted carrot seeds..wish I had more room now..have enjoyed reading this thread so much..I realised not just to stick to flowers..mind you I still love growing them..don't work too hard today veggie.

I've just watched the Chelsea Flower Show and I try my best but after watching that and listening to you gardeners on here I feel inadequate and I am just playing at it.

MarieM - I think we are all just playing at it. I'm not into flowers that much - I prefer fruit and veg - though I am trying to grow my own bedding plants this year. I don't watch Chelsea anymore - I think its become too commercialised - but that could be me being boring.

Well I could have sworn yesterday, did quite a bit in the borders at the back, nipped in for a glass of water and when I went back out next doors cat was using my fine soil as a toilet

Same again today, but this time I am armed with a giant, pump-action water gun...

Found this tip in one of my gardening books:
" Water Plants Thoroughly .... Make sure the soil around them gets a good soaking so that the water can work it's way right down to the roots. A light sprinkling with the hose everyday is worse than useless.In fact it will probably do a double dose of harm - encouraging roots to come to the surface and helping weed seeds to germinate."

MarieM..as veggie says,we are all just playing at it..I had to go on Google and watch a video on how to earth up potatoes..I keep coming back to my veggie growing book and as I say go on Google..as you know I've only ever grown flowers and had a dab at strawberries and only a bit at tomatoes..and as for the flower show well!!!only saw a snippet last night and what with pretentious Titchmarsh and bullets and buttons in gardening..I don't care if I never watch another one..anyway,don't ever feel inadequate..you've got the world at your finger tips with Google lass.

Veggie,as for the cat...the problem with cat owners(and I'm one) is from the very beginning they should get the cat to use a litter tray indoors..hence no need to use other folks gardens for toilets,it cost me a fair bit for litter but at least he doesn't bother other people..I know because I have asked my neighbour,our cat was eighteen last week so you can guess how many times the flipping tray needs doing..and yes cats do not like water if you can just catch it at it...but you have to be quick.

I purchased something from the pet shop, cannot recall the name, but it was a jar of green crystals: quite inexpensive.

You place a little on a stone, which placed on the border soil, or wherever required: it keeps cats off for about two weeks. Works well.

l was reading Wigan Evening Post last night-first time- and read that there will be the Annual plant sale at St Marie's church car park Standish. Sat 10am.

MarieM, you asked what l grow here in the North..well..l have Concord grapes that grow outside, plum trees. not had too much luck with apples, then your usual salad greens.
only growing 1/2 doz tomatoes this yr. Tiny Tims and giant beef steak. will plant aubergine, courgette and peas. When l see cats around the veg or flower beds l sprinkle a bit of hot chilli powder..

Maxine - thats a good tip about the watering. I have fruit trees in my borders at the back and the soil was very dry yesterday, so I am giving everything a good soak today as well, I might get some bark this year too, to help hold the moisture in.

Momac - not seen the cat today

I asked my son would he pick me some compost up and when he came back he had some netting with him as well, so I am going to construct something which will hopefully keep the dog and any cats off.

Veggie, let's hope it works eh..pity all cats are not like mine..he 's never been one for the great outdoors but if he whats to go out he uses his tray first...fingers crossed for you.

Well, its been a hot couple of days and not done as much as I would have liked, can't stand the heat. Just sorting out the borders in the back. Planted a few extra Gladioli and keep finding strawberries everywhere. I must have fed them well last year because they are better than ever.

Separating and re-planting, I don't know what they are but you see them in loads of gardens, they are like a very fine orange iris type plant. I know lots of people hate them but I like them.

Was sat on the lawn (if you can call it that - it needs serious work) with the dog, and a bird landed on the fence separating us and next door. As soon as it landed, next doors cat reached up from behind the fence, luckily the bird flew off, but that was it, on seeing the cat my dog went mental....

No end in sight....BBC Weather

veg grower, I think you mean montbretia, I like that plant also,the flowers are beautiful!

Montbretia grows like wild fires,your garden can get overrun with them.last year i dug hundreds up and half filled my green bin.A few weeks later went to garden centre saw them for sale £2 for about a dozen could have made a fortune selling mine

Thankyou both - they are Montbretias, I wasn't aware of the name. They are a bit invasive so I have separated them with the spade and replanted them, I think they look nice in a vase by themselves. There are better pics to google but I posted these as it shows them close-up.

How nice to sit in the garden and listen to the breeze rustling in the trees(I love that sound)and leave the weeding 'til the evening when it's a bit cooler..all's right with the world on days like this..if only all the world was as peaceful.

Spent coffee grounds: I used to put them in the compost heap, but noticing how much they attract earthworms, I have started to use them directly on garden soil. Being finely ground, they decay and incorporate rapidly, and I have noticed no problem of them locking up nitrogen, which is the usual problem if vegetation is applied whilst still decomposing.

Can't let go by these promotions of celebrity gardeners without putting in my nomination of Alan Gemmell

Priscus - I guess it makes sense to tip the grounds straight onto the earth - there isn't a lot to break down, and as you say the worms will work it straight in.

I hadn't heard of Alan Gemmell before today - but I will certainly look him up.

Momac - its too damn hot! As you say it is cooler late on and the breeze is lovely - I didn't get much done today, the sweat was running off my forehead Had my nephew too so that was an excuse.

The house is too warm I might sleep downstairs tonight, the dog has been up and down the last few nights she's that hot. I brought some water up for her so that she didn't have to go downstairs - she won't stay downstairs on her own, she likes being near me.

Footie tonight and beer, that reminds me I might try making my own...

Veggie..at least you think about your dog in this heat,how many people do you see out with their dogs and the poor things panting for want of a drink..do they not realise it would be like having a fur jacket on all the time..and of course as you know dogs can only keep their temp down by panting..anyway I'm putting the fan in the bedroom tonight,it's only a small one but anythings better than none..as I said before it's lovely having a dog..and I'm strongly thinking of starting with the brewing now.

Ah beh thowdeh gardeners on ere ull recaw Alun Gemmell.

I still grow the Ailsa Craig variety of Tom, as recommended by him, more than half a century on!

mache:

Your success with Black Hamburg against a North facing wall, is tempting me to try the same. I gather there are sub-varieties of BH. Do you know which you have, or which is best for such location?

Re : spent coffee grounds .... the cafe in the Range have a notice near the till advertising free spent coffee grounds!!

What the hell I have planted my pots up outside today. I know it could snow next week but I don't care.

Marie M - I'm sure they'll be fine, the night temperatures have been quite high too. What have you planted?

Well, at least its a little cooler (only a little) that breeze has been lovely the last day or so. Still shifting soil for my patio, hope to have that done today with the help of my son and then my brother is coming this week to give us a lift with the flags - so hopefully THIS week I'll be sorted.

Potting up some parsley I had sown, its organic seed 'Giant of Italy', also planting out some sunflowers which always seem to get attacked by slugsso I've sown extra just in case. Still finding strawberry plants - thats what I get for growing them in the borders.

Its set to be a little cooler this week with chance of thundery showers, but I don't think anyone will mind that, another week like last week and they'll declare a hosepipe ban I'm sure. I remember this time last year when growers in the South East were struggling because of lack of rainfall and many crops were lost. So glad to be living in the NW.

BBC Weather

One of my tomato plants leaves is turning yellow between the veins..looked it up, and seems like it's magnesium deficiency..so off to garden centre we did go but wanted a fiver for and I quote a box of Epsom Salts..so off to chemist tomorrow..I'm sure they won't cost a fiver..if they do,so be it...Veggie..don't know about you but I just love the thunder.

Had a search on ebay for you, but magnesium additives there are very expensive.

You can gather sea-weed for free, if you can get a trip to a suitable beach in: it is good for magnesium (And organic)

Also banana skins! (used mostly for potassium, but they will add magnesium also)

Boots 200g £1.25

Momac - don't mind the thunder - its the lightning that scares me. I do love a good storm though - so long as I am inside.

Thanks priscus and veggie..am off to boots tomorrow am.

veg grower My pots are dead simple - begonias and geraniums

had my first 2 strawberries from the garden today mmmmm
rec 2 emails last night about discouraging flies..put 4 bags out today and seems to work.
Put some water and 4 pennies in a zip lock baggie, seal and hang them around your patio. we left some jam, crackers, banana skin, apple core and not one fly .....wish it would work with mosquito's

In The Daily Mail today, Legionnaires found in compost Doesn't say which compost, just warns to wear gloves and a dust mask when handling. Also to wash hands thoroughly after use.

The Legionella bacterium is widespread and commonplace. It will be in your average puddle.

Breathing it in, is when problems occur. (Hence assoc with air con showers and etc)

Erontquay - thanks for that.

I know they have been warning about this for a few years. E-Coli is another. A lot of composts are steralized, although I doubt if this would kill all bacteria - and you need bacteris for stuff to grow in the first place.

I have often just rubbed my hands on my jumper and then had a cup of tea and a biscuit without thinking. It is an important warning though.

BBC Scotland

MarieM..I love geraniums..they never let you down and will tolerate going without for longer than other plants..if need be,but if you keep taking dead flowers off you will gets double in return..and there are some beautiful colours..begonias I get every year because you can put two or three in a tub or the ground and they will multiply like there's no tomorrow,but they need more watering than your average plant.
Veggie..got my Epsoms salts yesterday and done the watering so here's hoping eh? and as for compost holding bacteria..I use the anti-bacterial spray after I've been handling compost..you can't be too careful. without sounding like a scaremonger..just think of the vermin that could be going over the ground during the night..and we all know what rats carry don't we..I'm sure that none of have rats in our gardens but better to be safe than sorry.

Momac - funny you should mention it, a lady told me that when she was opening a bag of compost once - a mouse jumped out.

I forgot to mention, I'll get myself some Epsom Salts, last year I had a small cucumber plant that turned yellow, almost white, even had a small cucumber on it that was yellow/white - never seen anything like it.

Gee its warmer this evening than it was earlier on. Its supposed to rain tomorrow, and the temperature will be lower for the rest of the week/weekend - not bothered about that though, its been too hot for me last few days.

The rains here..thank God it might go a bit cooler veggie..it has been a bit too warm for moi as well..I'm like a hen on hot bricks so that don't helpanyway roll on the thunder eh.

A few years ago a relative gave us a few bluebells and they have spread all over. They are going over now and I want to give a friend some, when should they be lifted.

Marie M - I think you are supposed to wait until the foliage has died down, so that all the goodness is returned to the bulbs. I have moved them at different times though, and accidently dug some up - but they are very hardy things.

Well, thank heavens for that rain - amazing how cool and fresh everything smells after a heavy downpour.

The odds are Marie that the bluebells are Spanish,I have been tying to get rid of them for ages,they grow like weeds,the English ones are very nice but getting rare,I would'nt give anyone the Spanish ones,and if they are English,they are not supposed to be moved,they are easy to tell apart,the Spanish are tall and straight,with flowers on both sides,the English are small,with flowers one one side,and a curved top,the photo shows an English bluebell.

Thanks spud and veg, and momac for the info about geraniums. These bluebells are straight up so they will be them Spanish buggers.

Mine are the Spanish ones too, I also have a few that are white. I just assumed yours were the same. English bluebells are beautiful and some are very blue (as opposed to lilac) I know it is illegal to dig those up as they are a protected species. Although you can buy blubells....will have to google.

What about this weather. I am dying to get into the garden but it is unbelievable. Still we should be glad of the rain.

Well welcome back everybody..the rain has been brilliant for the spuds etc but the flowers are sulking..mind you I've had a sulk while WW's been on it's hols so..aren't we all glad it's back..yaaaaaay.

We've got pebbles in some parts in the front and the back garden and there are petals and leaves all over them. You can't sweep them up. Has anyone got a garden vacuum cleaner and is it worth buying one.

Just noticed today that a blackbird has nested in one of my greenhouses. It just sits there on the nest watching me go about tending to things. Given everything a good water today and moved a few bits out so that I need not disturb it very much.

Thats great about the Blackbird. I have Robins nesting in holly - though I think the babys have fledged over the weekend. There are Collared Doves and Blackbirds nesting in the Fir trees that belong to the people at the back of us. Its funny watching the Doves attacking the feeders and fat balls - I thought they only fed on the ground.

For anyone interested...Springwatch Web Cams

Not like June at all is it? Well everyone, I'm gonna get as much done as possible over the next few days as heavy rain is forecast from Thursday onwards. BBC Weather Forecast

Something got my robins - they hatched and were being fed for a couple of days, then no sign. I checked the nest and it was empty.

MarieM..I'm afraid it'e just down to bending down to get them,if you use a vacuum,it will just vacuum up your pebbles as well I should think..petals if left on pebbles will shrink to nothing I should think but leaves will have to be picked up manually.

momac Thank you. I will get down on my hands and knees tomorrow if it is not raining.

Fastening my blackberry to the fence today - it is a thornless variety and grows like a triffid. I've dug it up and allsorts and now I have several in the garden. The flowers are beautiful white/pink and the berries are very big when they ripen - at least twice as big as wild ones.

Transplanting some sage and thyme - I snip small bunches of these every so often and just hang them up in the kitchen to dry, also planting some alpine strawberries, sweetcorn, last of the sunflowers and some patty pan baby squashes.

A Tip From Lezgee

I got some lovely plants for my pots at the back from Asda today and they were very reasonable.

I'm off to Asda today, so will have a look around. The bedding plants I started off myself are nowhere near ready, so I'm afraid I will have to spend some dosh.

veg grower Did you get any plants from Asda today.

I've not been, I was waiting in for someone and then my brother came round, so hopefully today.

Well that rain last night must have done the gardens good, it was hammering it down at one point. Pulling slugs off everything - they are everywhere, it has been a good year for snails too...

Well, its been a bit of a wash-out, didn't do anything yesterday. Much the same today, but the weather looks ok Sun/Mon and Tues. BBC Weather

Anyone done/doing anything good at the moment?

I've just finished doing something good.

I've done sweet fanny adams this last couple of days..due to the rain..but the spuds are growing wild,can't wait to taste them!as soon as it stops there's weeds everywhere to be sorted ..Mac..pray tell us what you've done..don't keep it to yourself.

just made 4 jars of strawberry jam..strawberries from the garden. l call that doing something good mmmmm

God Tom..that would have been a big let down,I hope that's not the case..did you try again this year..I think I would lose heart...I might have a little prod later on to satisfy my curiosity.

Good for you marsin..are your strawberries early,or are mine late?.

Marsin - do you use half fruit and half sugar?

Momac - same here done nowt, the lawn at the back is developing little ponds No strawbs here yet either.

TOM - I think that is more the exception than the rule, I know if you grow in containers you may not always get as many as if you grow in the ground - usually better to feel about for the first few.

PS - Did you ever do that grafting on that pear? My gardening books cover budding and graftin but I have always been reluctant to try it.

Man plants forest


my Sources never lie.

Mac - No wonder...etc..

That bloke should be recognised for all his hard work - its a really inspiring story.

Brilliant innit, VG. Try that over here on council land and they will build on it as soon as it looks anything like.

Aye, they already make a point of chopping down any tree they can - they don't seem to realise that we need trees to breathe

Just read that story Mac..he can't be praised enough can he?,you don't get many teenagers with that much foresight either..he deserves a medal...it's a pet hate of mine,every time all we get junk mail through the door..more trees going down..the Amazon forest is quoted as the lungs of the world and it's believed that many cures for Cancers, Alzheimers, Parkinsons etc can still be found in the lush vegetation that is in the Rainforest..but man will always interfere with nature I'm afraid.

Well today I had a nice surprise, I find that I have got a good few Apricots on the tree, I've also found some Cherries too, so that daft frost we had obviously didn't do too much damage. Pears and Apples coming on nicely too.

I put some tomato plants outside the other day, stuck some tall canes in, but when I went outside this morning they had toppled over - I'd only forgotten to tie the stems to the canes D'Oh.

My strawberries seem to be taking forever...

Has anyone got a yucca. We have one in the back and the flower that comes out of the middle of that is just a miracle.

@ TOM

Marie - does it flower every year? I heard that in foreign countries spiders nest in them. A bit too ornate for my taste but I bet its lovely, if you post the full name of it maybe we could put a pic of it up on here.

MarieM, I used to have one,and yes it was beautiful when it was in flower..couldn't believe how big the flowers were..but..it got too big,it was in the back garden and it seemed to take over,and as you know the spikes can be dangerous..tried cutting them back but it kept on growing..which meant there was one area of the garden I couldn't even go near,so it too had to go,gave it to my neighbour..put in a massive pot for her(they don't have a massive root system)but she never watered it in the summer and it died..but the flowers are gorgeous.

Momac, how is that Morello Cherry tree doing, did you have any blossom on it at all?

veg and momac I don't know which it is. A neighbour gave it to us years ago. I cut a lot of the points off. They are dangerous really.

Veggie..I had a couple of blossoms on the cherry tree but that was it,so suppose I will have to wait until next year before anything real happens..and also the cucumbers haven't grown much at all yet,am sure this time last year they were growing a lot quicker..I'm just going to have a look on mr.google to see what he says.

tom I might burn it next year. Whereabouts are you.

tom When you said "over here", I thought you were in some exotic place in the world.

sorry for delay in replying
Momac, strawberries are approx 3 wks early this yr due to a warm spring.
veg grower, yes,l use 1/2 fruit and 1/2 sugar.
for 4 cups of strawberries l add 4 cups sugar,mix, leave in bowl for 2 hrs. boil for 5 mins, add 1/4 cup lemon juice, boil again for 5 mins, take off stove, remove scum. stir for 5 mins so strawberries don't settle on the bottom of pan. pour in hot jars.

Marsin - thankyou for the reply and the recipe. Me and my brother both grow fruit in our gardens, and we are thinking of making our own jam this year.

Well, what a washout! I won't complain as I know there are people worse off and some flooded out of their homes. I don't know about global warming, but I've had the fire on the last few nights.

The birds are bathing in the puddles on the lawn and the dog doesn't know where to walk

Hoping to visit a couple of garden centres this weekend as my bedding plants are nowhere near ready.

Did anyone watch Gardeners World last night? Monty Don showed 3 lots of sweet peas, some sown in Autumn, some in the New Year and some in March and the difference was amazing, those sown in the Autumn were flowering well - I suppose its ok if you have the room. They also visited a beautiful garden, belonging to a big house, forget the name, that was very natural looking - I'm not keen on formal gardens. Its on iPlayer so I'm gonna watch that again.

Weather set to be much better and warmer the next few days...BBC Weather

Veggie..I'm getting a bit fed up with all this rain too, but as you say there's worse off than us...the flooded streets that were on t.v.last night aren't that far from us,but seeing as we live on the main road that is on an incline it won't happen to us..thank God,when there's a downpour here it looks like the Amazon gushing down..I don't envy those poor folk..as for watching Monty last night,only saw it on and off (was a bit off myself)!!!roll on Mr sunshine is my motto.

it's a lovely day here in Sudbury.. just spent a couple of hours puttering around in the garden.no plums on one tree and 1/2 doz on the other, last yr both were loaded. all veg are coming along well..rhubarb is ready. will make a rhubarb crumble for later..with custard.

Just lost the last of the flowers off an orchid,cut stem down to a nodule and put in greenhouse hoping it flowers again maybe next year now.

Peter..I have a thing for orchids as well..have just cut two back after they lost their flowers,early this year I had one grow back after only a few months of resting..so you never know..I also get orchid food..they seem to thrive on that,the ones that are cut back are now on windowsill upstairs..that's where I put the other one after being cut back..so lets see if yours comes into flower first eh?..we'll know then..they can be complicated can't they,I've had to go on mr google to find things out,have you been keeping them a lot time.

Momac no the orchid was given to my wife earlier this year.

Marsin..how old is your plum tree,I got one earlier this year..it's a miniature one and it's planted in a very big tub,do you think I'll get some plums next year? my rhubarb is doing okay and I did a crumble last week..but runner beans and cucumbers are still struggling..the runner beans are only about a foot high and have flowers on already,almost like the growth is stunted,cucumbers are the same,so not much luck there.

Just picking the first of the redcurrants and strawberries....yippee

TOM - why get rid of the strawbs? Are you changing the garden then?

momac..my plum trees are about 10 yrs old. they are planted in the ground. had plums after 2nd yr on one and about 4 yrs for the other., almost tossed it out, but, l can't seem to be able to throw any plant or tree out...like TOM l feel like getting rid of most of the strawberries-they are so invasive- but haven't got the heart to.

Marsin..so I can look forward to mine next year then..lovely..as for your strawberries..why don't you put them in hanging baskets so you can contain them better..it is very hard isn't it to throw plants away.

TOM - as Momac said to Marsin earlier - its a shame you couldn't have put them in tubs or whatever. Strawberries cost a fortune at the supermarket.

I know a lot of folk putting down the weed suppressant and covering with bark or stones - never have to weed again.

I keep getting fooled by this early morning sunshine - once again rain is forecast, and for the next few days too.

I grew a few Malva perennials last year, they can grow quite tall, but if you cut them back after first flowering you get a second lot by autumn - I can't remember the actual name of mine, but they have come back even better this year - here is a pic of one that looks virtually the same as mine, its a Purple Zebrina:

D'oh!Apologies - messin about trying to post the above pic.

I was given a really good tip last week regarding slugs and snails.All this wet weather brings them out in force I hate them they have even got into my kitchen the little sods. Anyway WD40 solved the problem. Just spray at the base of any planters etc and they won't go anywhere near.I've sprayed it along my back door step and not seen any sign of them since.

loganberrys

on some main branches on one of my rose bushes are some 'things' that look like small beehives!!! does anyone know what they are..

no.l just cut into one, inside is like the inside of a flower stem..the older ones have black holes in them. they have thorns on them. some are a bit smaller than a golf ball.

Marsin - I have only ever had problems with Aphids and Blackspot myself - I just wondered if any of these conditions matched yours...Click Here

thanks vg..l think that they are the rosehip family, looking at the rosehip in the picture they are similar but mine have thorns. some have small branches starting to grow out of the end. thanks anyway

Marsin - when you mentioned Rosehip - I think you mean the seedheads? I'm probably wrong again but thats all I can think of.

veg grower, thanks..looking at pictures l think you are right. l am going to cut one off and plant it in a sandy/soil mix.

Has anyone grown any stone fruit from an actual stone/seed? I bought some Apricots from Morrisons the other day and I was thinking of planting the stones in a pot.

Veggie..had a toot on Google and it looks very interesting, and a bit more complicated than I would have thought..worth a try though.

Momac - I've had a good look, and there are differing versions, I will try out one or two of them. I know it will take ages for them to grow, but I thought I would be worth a try - my brother has successfully grown a couple of apple trees from pips. I'll report back next year if they have sprouted.

raspberries are ready..l picked a couple of bags today and froze them, l make a trifle every Christmas day with raspberries from the garden.

Been clearing a lot today and weeding..right now at this time of year it's looking a bit crowded..and I want the shed in a different colour to brown..does anyone have any ideas..Cliff says I can't just use any paint..but has anyone else used an ordinary paint.

Thanks very much tom.

momac I got stuck in today clearing some of the ground. On the weather forecast last night it said it was going to be raining all day and it is one of the nicest days we have had. I planted some pots up about two months ago and I have only watered them twice and they are thriving.

Marie..it's certainly raining today..we did quite a bit of clearing yesterday while the sun was out..are your pots the geraniums you mentioned the other week?..I have some Dahlias in a pot that are throwing a lot of leaves out but no buds..so that's been moved to the back of the class so to speak,alas no gardening today in this rain.

momac Yes they are the Geraniums and I won't be watering them again today.

Been picking and freezing redcurrants, strawberries and rasberries - seem to have lots more this year.

I have some nice spinach too which I sow a little bit of every week with the rocket and other salad leaves.

Planted out a few cucumbers, squash and sunflowers that were sown a bit late.

Weather forecast doesn't look good for the next few days, but they have said that a few times recently and we have had one or two nice days. Enjoy whats left of the weekend - I'm off to watch the tennis.

Been to B&Q this morning,and was chatting to one of the staff about the poor show of tomatoes due to all the flipping rain..and he told me about tomatoes pretty new to these areas I think called Black Russian..they are dark in colour and said the taste was something else..a bit like cherry brandy soooooo I'm going to have shufti on Google right now.

Momac - I've heard of those. If you can't find them Thompson & Morgan sell the seeds. Seed companies develop lots of seeds now to cope with cooler conditions.

I'm off to B&Q myself, I've got some vouchers to spend from my birthday.

I've been freezing fruit every day for the last few days - Red and Yellow Raspberries, Strawberries, Blackcurrants, Redcurrants - we often still have some well after Christmas.

Veggie..he said they were Thompson and Morgan and he got them on line..and see you've been busy with your fruit..good for you.

Tomorrow I'm going to lay a lawn in my small front garden

Pics to follow if it's any good

i have about 20 roses in the back garden. all types and sizes. all are doing well apart from one, for the last three years the flowers are rotten when they open. any solutions?

i am thinking of digging it up and trying it elsewhere in the garden to see if it fairs any better.

momac I have still only watered my pots twice since I planted them two months ago and they are thriving.

Redtop19 - I don't know what type of rose you have, but it doesn't seem to affect single roses quite as much.

Monty Don mentioned this on Gardeners World a few weeks back, his solution was to just snip off the whole head before flowering as it obviously wouldn't amount to much. However some people peel off the outer petals in order (or an attempt) for the rose the bloom, although I guess you would have to do this before things got too bad.

Wet weather and no sunshine are ideal conditions for this, as they reckon roses need a good spell of dry weather. Also, avoid over-watering, spraying/misting those that are susceptible.

Tom,I do grow under glass..but when after seeing owd dave's tomatoes mine are pathetic,so next year I'm trying the Black Russian ones..as you say they will tolerate being outdoors which leaves me more room in the greenhouse for peppers etc..I do give them a spray tom.

MarieM..brilliant,I bet your geraniums are looking great.

Managed to lay some turf this week-end

Cordyline..that looks absolutely beautiful.

Mostly terracotta; some plastic, bought here and there over the years
Not many flowers yet from the few bedding plants we bought recently
It doesn't show in the pics but the white concrete fence is a tad shabby; need to get some masonry paint

There is a hypertufa trough which I forgot to put back in place after fixing the grass

cordyline It's lovely. Where abouts are you based?

cordyline It's lovely. Where abouts are you based?

Pemberton

Cordy - thats a fantastic lawn, it doesn't look as if was just laid - but I read somewhere that you used to be a landscape gardener. I did one in the back a few years ago. Gardening on clay is quite a challenge, and I obviously spent more time on preparing the top end of the garden - as it nears the bottom end it dips a little and I need to work on this.

You got it done at the right time as the weather is forecast rubbish for the rest of the week.