Green Fingers: Having the best of both worlds
One positive thing that has long been demonstrated is the mental and physical benefit of being outdoors and immersing yourself in nature and, by extension, in gardening activities. Many people are fortunate to have some private open space at the back of their house where they can relax completely with their household. Unfortunately, others live in city apartments and cannot do that, but they do have access to parks and other public open spaces.
There are as many variations in gardening methods and styles as there are among those who spend time in their gardens. This is one of the reasons why gardening is so interesting and never boring or predictable. No year is ever the same as the next but, luckily, there are certain patterns and cycles that remain more or less constant and, once you get on board with these, you are more or less in tune with other experienced gardeners.
Like others, I am probably a little guilty of trying to push the boundaries of what can be grown here but, I did say “little”, and that is because I do not stray too far. I find there is more than enough to interest and challenge me within the range of hardy plants available. Even among reasonably common hardy plants there can be setbacks every 20 years or so when severe frosts cause losses. Two well-known examples are the Griselinia hedge and the cabbage palm, or cordyline.
With so much available, it is not easy to choose what you would like in your garden as space is usually the limiting factor. There is no foolproof system because, if you make a list of what you like, it will inevitably be too long. The list is never finished either, as new additions are constantly being made when you come across interesting plants. I do have lists and photographs on my phone and the available spaces filled up quickly but, if I come across something I really want, it is simply a matter of removing the least attractive plant. I admit that is not always simple, as it can be a tough decision to make.
All of this boils down to the fact that plants have to be something out of the ordinary and/or great to outstanding to earn a place in my garden. I include spring-flowering bulbs too, as they take up very little space, are useful for filling odd corners and can bring colour to the garden for up to six months. After that, I would whittle the list down to a selection of highly desirable shrubs, perennials and alpines to complete the garden.
To get the best from garlic they must be planted by the end of the year as they like cold conditions in which to start their growth cycle. We stock and plant softneck varieties as they do not tend to produce a flower shoot and they also keep better and contain more cloves that hardneck types.
If you have any queries or comments you are welcome to share them with me on 051-384273 or orchardstowngardencentre@hotmail.com and if of general interest I will include it in a future newsletter.
