Barnsdale Gardens, home to Britain’s largest collection of individually designed gardens nestled in the heart of the East Midlands, offers invaluable tips for cultivating a splendid garden this January. With 38 unique gardens to tend to, the expertise shared by the Barnsdale team is applicable whether you’re nurturing your own backyard oasis or managing a diverse landscape like theirs.
Rejuvenate Trees and Shrubs:
In the aftermath of recent wet and windy weather, take the opportunity to re-firm newly planted trees and shrubs, especially those leaning or top-heavy. Once the ground has sufficiently dried, a simple but effective method involves using the heel of your boot to firm the soil around the root area.
Feed Fallen Fruits to Feathered Friends:
For those with berry trees and hard standing beneath, capitalize on fallen berries by providing a feast for feathered friends. Instead of discarding them, consider raking the fallen berries into an adjacent border or collecting and scattering them in a less conspicuous area, allowing local wildlife, particularly blackbirds, to enjoy a natural winter treat.
Disease Vigilance for Stored Plants:
Regularly inspect stored tubers and corms, such as Dahlias, Gladioli, and Begonias, for signs of disease, with a particular focus on grey mould (Botrytis). If any signs are detected, promptly address the issue by excising the affected portions and restoring the overall health of the plant.
Sow Hardy Perennial Seeds:
Utilize propagators, heated mats in greenhouses, or even windowsills to kickstart the sowing of hardy perennial seeds indoors. Opt for modules to simplify the process and eliminate the need for subsequent pricking out. Aim for approximately three seeds per cell, covering them with vermiculite. For those using seed trays, a thin layer of compost on top is advised. Maintain a bottom heat of around 15°C (59°F) for optimal germination, especially beneficial for growing plants like Echinops.
Multi-Sow for Early Crops:
Unlock quick and early harvests by employing the multi-sow method for carrots, beetroot, leeks, onions, turnips, and kohl rabi. Follow these steps:
- Fill the module tray with peat-free compost.
- Create small indentations for seeds, using the cap of a pencil as an ideal guide.
- Sow between 4 and 7 seeds per cell.
- Cover with vermiculite, label, and water.
- Place the tray into a propagator or warm greenhouse.
Once germinated and rooted, these crops can be hardened off and planted directly from the tray, providing a clumped harvest in as little as 7-10 weeks.
Barnsdale Gardens remains committed to sharing gardening expertise and fostering a love for horticulture throughout the year.
Read more at the website https://barnsdalegardens.co.uk/index.html
Barnsdale Gardens is open every day, 9am – 5pm. No need to book your visit in advance, just turn up.
Nick Hamilton’s new book ‘The Right Genes’ : https://shop.barnsdalegardens.co.uk/products/the-right-genes
Photos credit Steve Hamilton