October in the Garden
This is a good time of year to take a long, hard look at your garden and ponder on what's worked well and what hasn't. A keen gardener friend of mine recently observed that us gardeners are all too quick to point out our failings and I think she's right. So, for the record, I'm all in favour of raising a glass to our successes, of which, I see plenty. However, there's no doubt that some plants and some ideas work out better than others. Personally, I think life's too short to live with plants that either aren't performing or simply don't appeal any more. Make a few notes now, and even better, take a few photos. This way, if you don't get round to planting new stuff til next Spring, you'll have a visual reminder of what you wanted to change.
Next up, is the lovely "job" of browsing bulb brochures (or garden centres and nurseries) for spring flowering bulbs. As well as your tried and tested favourites, why not try something new this year? There are all sorts of bulbs that won't be suitable for your garden soil or aspect so perhaps you've not considered them. However, many will grow quite happily in containers. It's a really good idea to incorporate a bit of horticultural grit (available at most garden centres) in with the compost as well as putting some broken crocks or bits of polystyrene (much lighter) in the bottom of the container. Bulbs, and incidentally most winter bedding, will perform all the better for having good drainage. Whether you order from catalogues or buy from your favourite nursery or garden centre it makes sense to buy early. This way, the bulbs will be in better condition when you plant them and you'll have a much better choice, as many of the more desirable varieties sell quickly.
Autumn is arguably the best time to plant most things - shrubs, trees, climbers and perennials. The soil is still warm from the summer and there's now evidence that roots often continue growing into December. In Brighton's mild climate this could be prolonged into January. If you can get plants in during autumn they'll have a root system better able to cope with whatever kind of summer we get next year.
If you fancy taking a look at some dramatic autumn colour, you could head off to Sheffield Park, High beeches, Leonardslee or Nymans gardens - all are stunning at this time of year.
Best wishes
Lisa
For an initial consultation call Lisa on 01273 500407 or 07957 751218 or email her at info@lilybud.co.uk
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