Garden News (UK)

Secrets of a Head Gardener

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Soil is one of the most important elements of gardening. Without good earth we can’t have healthy plants and nutrient-rich vegetables, and because soil is a living organism, it needs as much care and attention as the plants do. Adding layers of organic mulch throughout the season will give it all it needs, help trap precious moisture and reduce weeds.

I always advise that a weed should be pulled rather than dug out – even if that means breaking its roots. When we dig soil, we disturb its structure and send it into a state of recovery – a process that encourages yet more weeds. Use a hoe, then add a mulch afterwards and see how quickly you can reduce your weeding and improve your soil’s health.

When pruning trees or shrubs, always consider first how the plant wants to grow naturally and then decide how you want it to grow.grow Keep bearing in mind both these elements while you prune and you should find a suitable compromise. To present a garden at its best a little and often approach tends to work better for most jobs, and especially for weeding. If you’re thinking about doing something, stop thinking about it, just get out there and do it, even if it’s for a few minutes!

Yes, it’s important to look at your garden with a critical eye,eye but don’t forget to enjoy it, too. Step back occasional­ly and appreciate the fruits of your hard work, preferably from a comfy chair withw a cool drink to hand!

 ??  ?? It’s like a dream fairyland at Mo isfont!
It’s like a dream fairyland at Mo isfont!
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