My winter jasmine gives a colour splash
Sandra Manning
An urban oasis in Twickenham with trees, shrubs and general planting with a variety of wildlife.
Days are getting noticeably lighter and the garden is springing into life. The low winter sun picks out the bright green stems of Cornus sericea ‘Flaviramea’ beautifully. Daffodils and narcissus bulbs are emerging, underplanted with colourful primroses.
‘Charlotte’ and ‘Cara’ potatoes (first and second earlies) are chitting, ready for planting out in late March or early April depending on the weather. Winter heathers hug the ground and are flowering well.
Heavenly bamboo Nandina domestica has grown incredibly well over the past year and hosts glorious red berries. Starry, yellow flowers of winter jasmine provide a splash of colour between the gate and a wall. The flowers, which are borne on long, square, green stems are good for cutting and adding to an indoor display. Other winter-flowering shrubs good for bringing indoors are Viburnum tinus and Skimmia japonica 'Rubella'.
Last year I planted a Magnolia stellata and a white camellia. The camellia has just come into bloom, with many more buds to come. The magnolia is laden with downy-covered buds, so I'm looking forward to seeing the flowers in the coming weeks.
Having always grown onions from sets, an allotment neighbour said she obtained the best results from seed. Following her assurances, I’m going to try this year. Upcoming jobs include sorting out and cleaning seed trays in readiness for the seed-sowing season.
My highlight
Being able to have vases of flowering shrubs indoors.