Plant some fresh ideas
Spring can’t come soon enough but plans can be made for the year ahead, says LOUISE MIDGLEY
GARDENERS are hard wired to be positive and although well aware their gardens will be cold and uninviting for the next few weeks, they can at least focus on the fact that the shortest day of the year has now passed and each new day promises to be a little lighter and therefore longer.
So, when the weather prevents any outdoor activity, do a little armchair gardening instead.
Look back at the triumphs and failures of 2018 and formulate new creative plans to embark upon this year. Think about what to grow, what not to grow and be sure to step out of your comfort zone and try something new.
Your garden should reflect your own unique taste and not conform to what’s currently in fashion.
Make it a sanctuary of calm, a hive of activity or an eclectic mix of designs, whatever works for you and puts a smile on your face when you spend time in it.
Here are a few positive ideas to consider.
Recent studies have shown an alarming decline in the population of insects in the UK. Make 2019 the year you refrain from using chemical or organic pest control sprays.
They are both indiscriminate and kill pests and beneficial insects alike. Provide a natural form of pest control by growing annuals that are rich in pollen and nectar, close to plants that are plagued by aphids.
Lacewings, ladybirds, hoverflies and parasitic wasps will be lured in by the flowers and keep aphid infestations under control.
Phacelia tanacetifolia is one of the best, it’s easy to grow and beautiful too. Pick up ideas and inspiration from other people’s gardens. Thousands of privately owned gardens open to the public every year under the National Garden Scheme (ngs.org.uk).
Many are average-sized and therefore relatable to the majority of gardeners.
Highly-motivated garden owners will share advice, discuss specific plant requirements and generally wax lyrical about gardening. You are bound to leave full of enthusiasm and with masses of original ideas for your own outdoor space.
Live more sustainably and eat seasonally grown produce harvested from your own garden.
If space is tight, incorporate vegetables, herbs and fruit into existing borders or grow in containers on the patio.
Look out for compact varieties of fruit which are every bit as productive as their larger relatives and ideal for pots or front of border.
Newbies to plot-to-plate living should start with easy-to-grow crops such as peas, salad leaves or runner beans.