大象传媒

The wet weather is now taking its toll especially as the old or diseased wood from trees is being torn down by the high winds, though, if no damage is done at ground level, this can be a bonus as its difficult to get to the top of trees to carry out regular maintenence. The main thing is that the resulting debries is claered away to keep the garden open and prevent the build up of moisture which can encourage fungal diseases.

Though it can be expensive to be a keen gardener these days there are ways at this time of the year we can save money. For example, the garden centres are champing at the bit to get rid of any surplus summer stock and if they fail to do this now will be stuck with trees and shrubs which will need storing and looking after during the winter months. Also, garden centres need to make room for winter plants like Pansies and polyanthus as well as new trees and shrubs for spring planting, so get down to the garden centre or local nursery to bag a bargain.

The general rule of thumb for me is, if the plant has a good root system, even if it is protruding through the base of the pot then its still a worthwhile buy. Just prize the root from the pot when you get it home and plant as soon as you can.

TOPICAL TIPS:

Feed and water indoor Orchids and remove old and dried aerial roots. Place where the plant will not get too cold and keep a little water around the base of the pot so it will not dry out if we get a very cold snap and the cenrtal heating is turned up a notch.

Plant Wallflowers, Pansy's and Polyanthus. There are some good coloured varieties to be had now and they make a wonderful spread of colour on dark grey days. Plant in Hanging baskets, tubs and troughs and make sure the plants do not dry out. Feed each week and remove dead flowers for more growth during the winter months.