CATCH UP IN THE GREENHOUSE/WHAT’S ON
Plants may be resting, but there is still work to be done!
THERE are a few optimistic shoots starting to poke their way through the soil in sheltered parts of the garden, but in the greenhouse all remains fairly quiet.
The corms and tubers of tender gladioli and dahlias are happily resting in their trays of sand and compost under the staging, waiting for the warmer weather when they will start shooting and can be potted up or moved back into the borders.
I’m checking them over every week or so to make sure they are all staying firm and healthy and haven’t succumbed to rotting or been attacked by pests.
Watch out for unwanted visitors that have sought refuge undercover from the cold. Snails and aphids are the main problem, with scale insects appearing in late winter and early spring. Deal with them immediately.
Overwintering plants need no feed and very little water unless they start to droop. The exceptions are citrus plants, which flower and set fruit during the colder months and need a specific winter feed to get the best results.
They should also be watered sparingly using tepid rainwater. Overwatering will cause the leaves to yellow and drop, so only give them a drink when their compost is dry to the touch, then make sure excess can drain away properly.
On frosty nights, cover tender perennials such pelargoniums and gazanias with fleece, but remove it when the temperatures rise the following day, or else the warmth will create condensation on the plants. If this is left to sit, it attracts fungal problems, mould and rotting.
Improve airflow by opening doors, vents and windows on milder days, closing them when the sun moves on and the temperature drops.