Gardening in May
Lee Senior brings some more tips for growing on board or on land
IN VIEW of the unprecedented situation with Covid-19, gardening is a perfect antidote. Fortunately at this time of year there is much to be done.
Early to mid-May is the ideal time to start our summer bedding plants. The next step is then to harden them off. This gradually acclimatises our young charges to outdoor temperatures and conditions. Do remember to protect them from frost at all times.
Plant outdoors in the flowering positions towards the end of the month. Treat plug plants in the same way.
When removing your spent winter bedding plants it is good practice to replace at least half of the compost in your containers with new.
Miniature roses look great in confined spaces. Many modern varieties are now repeat flowering and often have a gentle fragrance. On average they grow up to a height of no greater than 18in with a spread of around 12in.
For maximum impact in a small area there is nothing better in the summer. Miniature roses can be grown in a window box or in a container alone or as part of a mixed scheme. A sunny aspect is essential.
This month, harvesting your own fresh food is limited to asparagus, radish, spring cabbage and spring onions. So how about adding the tips of young nettle plants to the list?! They are perfectly edible and can be treated in a similar way to spinach.
Using thick gloves, carefully select plants that are growing well away from roads and also a safe distance from any areas that may have been sprayed with weedkiller.
The young leaves are also good for making nettle soup. Though I’ve never tried it myself, I’m aware some people make nettle tea, wine and even beer. I could definitely be tempted with the latter!