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Autumn

10 Best Plants for Stunning Autumn Color in Your Garden

by Gregory June 27, 2024

written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Plants for Amazing Autumn Color

Introduction

When the days get shorter and the air gets cooler, many plants put on a spectacular show of color before winter arrives. Here are 10 of the best plants to add vibrant autumn hues to your garden.

Trees

Crab apple ‘Evereste’: Produces rosy fruit and yellow leaves in autumn.
Judas tree (Cercis canadensis ‘Forest Pansy’): Features purple heart-shaped leaves that turn yellow in fall.
Acers: Known for their stunning autumn foliage in shades of red, orange, and yellow.

Shrubs

Snowy mespilus: Coppery pink and pale yellow leaves turn scarlet and crimson in autumn.
Beauty berry (Callicarpa bodinieri var. giraldii ‘Profusion’): Produces clusters of purple berries and golden purple leaves in mid-autumn.
Cotoneaster: Displays red berries and tiny evergreen leaves in autumn.

Flowers

Aster (Symphyotrichum ‘Little Carlow’): Produces vibrant purple flowers in late summer and autumn.
Autumn crocus (Colchicum ‘Waterlily’): Features pink-purple double flowers that bloom in September and October.
Nerine (Nerine bowdenii): Rewards you with a late display of lipstick-pink flowers outdoors in warm climates.

Other Plants

Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus henryana): Features delicate coppery leaves that turn crimson in autumn.
Sternbergia lutea: Produces bright yellow flowers in autumn and is native to the eastern Mediterranean.

Tips for Growing Plants for Autumn Color

Choose plants that are well-suited to your climate and soil conditions.
Plant in a sunny spot with good drainage.
Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
Fertilize in spring and summer to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
Deadhead spent flowers to promote continued blooming.

Gardening

Autumn Garden Tidy-Up: A Comprehensive Guide to Preparing Your Garden for Winter

by Donna June 20, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Tidying Your Garden in Autumn: A Comprehensive Guide

Autumn is the perfect time to give your garden a thorough tidy-up before the cold weather sets in. By taking the time to do a few simple tasks now, you can ensure that your garden will look its best throughout the winter and be ready to burst into life again in the spring.

Borders and Beds

Remove dying leaves and collapsed stems from herbaceous perennials, either by pulling them by hand or cutting them at the base with secateurs.
Leave any stems with attractive seedheads for birds to enjoy.
Remove weeds, then spread compost or well-rotted manure over the soil to insulate plant roots.

Lawn Care

Mow your lawn for the final time, setting the mower blades higher than usual to leave the grass slightly longer over winter.
Cut the edges of your lawn with an edging tool or knife to redefine their lines.

Autumn Leaves

Gather fallen leaves and use them to make leaf mould, a great soil improver.
Remove leaves from your lawn, paths, and borders to prevent them from smothering grass and plants.

Plant Supports

Cut down annual climbers in borders and climbing beans in vegetable plots.
Remove dead stems and foliage from plant supports.
Wash off any soil from canes and other removable wooden supports and treat them with preservative before storing them indoors over winter.

Repairs and Maintenance

Repair any damage to raised beds, sheds, and compost bins.
Paint them with wood preservative to protect them from the elements.
Replace any rotting fence posts to prevent them from being blown down in winter storms.
Ensure shed roofs don’t leak and replace any broken panes or faulty vents in greenhouses.

Wildlife

Take down bird boxes and empty them. Wash them out with hot water before putting them back up.
Clean out bird feeders and bird baths and regularly refill them.

Pond Care

Scoop out leaves that have blown into your pond before they sink and start to rot.
Cut back the foliage of marginal pond plants that have died down.
Remove pond pumps and fountains that are no longer in use. Wash them out thoroughly and store them over winter.

Additional Tips

Compost spent plants from the vegetable plot, unless they are diseased.
Sow a green manure to improve the soil.
Clear away old crops before they start to rot and become a haven for pests and diseases.
Put away plant supports to prevent them from being damaged by the weather.
Make repairs to your garden structures to ensure they are ready for winter.
Clean out bird boxes, feeders, and baths to keep them hygienic for wildlife.
Take care of your pond by removing leaves and cutting back dead foliage.

Gardening

Fireworks and Bonfires in the Garden: A Safe and Fun Guide

by Donna June 9, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Fireworks and Bonfires: A Safe and Fun Guide for Your Garden

Introduction

As autumn approaches, it’s time to start thinking about fireworks and bonfires. These can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to take safety precautions to ensure everyone has a good time. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to enjoy fireworks and bonfires safely in your own garden.

Fireworks

The Law: Make sure you follow the law when using fireworks. In most places, fireworks can only be set off during certain hours and in designated areas.
Stay Safe: Keep fireworks away from houses, trees, and other flammable objects. Always light fireworks from a safe distance and never point them at people or animals.
Protect Your Pets: Dogs and other pets can be scared of fireworks. Keep them indoors during firework displays and provide them with a safe and quiet place to hide.

Bonfires

Choose a Safe Location: Build your bonfire in a spot that is well away from your house, fences, and trees. Clear the area of any leaves or debris that could catch fire.
Keep Water Nearby: Have several buckets of water or a garden hose on hand to extinguish any flames that may spread.
Light Safely: Light your bonfire from one side to give any wildlife that may be hiding a chance to escape.
Never Leave Unattended: Stay with your bonfire until it is completely extinguished.

Garden Essentials

Ear Protection: Protect your ears from the loud noise of fireworks with earplugs or ear defenders.
Fire Safety Equipment: Keep a fire extinguisher and a bucket of sand nearby in case of emergencies.
Hedgehog House: Provide a safe haven for hedgehogs during bonfire season by placing a hedgehog house in your garden.
Firepit: If you don’t have space for a bonfire, consider using a firepit instead. Firepits are smaller and easier to control, making them a safer option for small gardens.
Solar String Lights: Create a festive atmosphere with solar string lights. These lights are easy to install and provide a soft, ambient glow.
Pop-Up Gazebo: Keep your guests dry in case of rain with a pop-up gazebo. These gazebos are easy to set up and take down, and they provide plenty of ventilation.

Additional Safety Tips

Don’t Use Flammable Liquids: Never use flammable liquids to start or fuel a bonfire.
Keep Children and Pets Away: Keep children and pets a safe distance from fireworks and bonfires.
Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol can impair your judgment and increase the risk of accidents.
Check for Wildlife: Before lighting a bonfire, check for any small animals that may be hiding in the pile.
Dispose of Ashes Properly: Once your bonfire is extinguished, dispose of the ashes safely in a metal container.

Conclusion

By following these tips, you can enjoy fireworks and bonfires safely in your garden. Remember to always prioritize safety and have fun!

Gardening

Brighten Your Autumn with Container Plants: A Guide to Choosing, Planting, and Caring for Fall Blooms

by Gregory April 26, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Plants to Brighten Your Autumn Containers

Introduction

As the days get shorter and the nights get cooler, it’s time to start thinking about adding some color to your outdoor spaces. One of the easiest ways to do this is with container plants. Container plants can be placed on patios, decks, or even indoors to add a touch of beauty to any space.

When choosing plants for autumn containers, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the amount of sunlight your containers will receive. Some plants, like dahlias and chrysanthemums, need full sun to bloom their best. Others, like hostas and ferns, can tolerate partial shade or even full shade.

Second, think about the size of your containers. Smaller containers are best for small plants, while larger containers can accommodate larger plants or even small trees.

Finally, don’t forget to consider the overall design of your containers. You can create a cohesive look by using plants with similar colors or textures, or you can mix and match different plants to create a more eclectic look.

Best Plants for Autumn Containers

There are many different plants that are well-suited for autumn containers. Here are a few of our favorites:

Dahlias: Dahlias are a classic choice for autumn containers. They come in a wide variety of colors and sizes, and they bloom profusely from late summer until the first frost.
Chrysanthemums: Chrysanthemums are another popular choice for autumn containers. They are known for their bright, cheerful flowers that come in a wide range of colors.
Asters: Asters are asters are daisy-like flowers that bloom in the fall. They come in a variety of colors, including purple, pink, blue, and white.
Ornamental grasses: Ornamental grasses add a touch of texture and movement to autumn containers. They come in a variety of heights and colors, and they can be used to create a variety of different looks.
Heucheras: Heucheras are known for their colorful foliage. They come in a variety of colors, including purple, red, green, and silver.
Violas and pansies: Violas and pansies are small, flowering plants that bloom in the fall and winter. They come in a variety of colors, and they are a great way to add a touch of color to autumn containers.

Tips for Planting Autumn Containers

Once you have chosen your plants, it’s time to plant your containers. Here are a few tips:

Use a potting mix that is specifically designed for container plants.
Plant your plants at the same depth they were growing in their original containers.
Water your plants thoroughly after planting.
Place your containers in a location that receives the appropriate amount of sunlight.
Fertilize your plants regularly according to the directions on the fertilizer package.

Caring for Autumn Containers

Autumn containers are relatively easy to care for. Here are a few tips:

Water your plants regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
Fertilize your plants every few weeks to keep them blooming their best.
Deadhead your plants regularly to encourage new blooms.
Bring your containers indoors before the first frost if you want to keep them over the winter.

With a little care, your autumn containers will provide you with months of beauty.

Holiday Gardening

Make an Autumn-Toned Handmade Christmas Wreath with Natural Materials

by Donna April 14, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

Autumn-Toned Handmade Christmas Wreath

Make Your Own Festive Decor

Christmas is a time for cheer and giving, and what better way to spread the joy than with a beautiful, handmade wreath? Using materials from your own garden, you can create a unique and festive decoration that will add warmth and charm to your home.

Gather Your Materials

To make your wreath, you’ll need:

Berries
Evergreen branches
Autumn-toned leaves
Wire or twine
Scissors
Wreath form (optional)

Instructions

Gather your materials. Collect berries, evergreen branches, and autumn-toned leaves from your garden.
Create a base. If desired, wrap wire or twine around a wreath form to create a base for your wreath.
Attach the greenery. Starting from the inside of the wreath, attach the evergreen branches to the base using wire or twine.
Add the berries and leaves. Fill in the gaps between the evergreen branches with berries and autumn-toned leaves.
Secure the decorations. Wrap wire or twine around the berries and leaves to secure them to the wreath.
Hang your wreath. Display your finished wreath on a door, window, or wall to add a touch of Christmas cheer to your home.

Tips

Use a variety of evergreen branches, such as pine, spruce, and fir, to create a textured look.
Add other natural materials, such as pinecones, acorns, or cinnamon sticks, to personalize your wreath.
If you don’t have a wreath form, you can create a simple loop of wire or twine to hang your wreath.
Make several wreaths to give as gifts to friends and family.

Enjoy Your Handmade Creation

With a little creativity and effort, you can create a beautiful, autumn-toned Christmas wreath that will bring joy to your home for years to come.

Houseplant Care

Autumn Houseplant Care: Tips for Thriving Plants in Changing Seasons

by Donna March 31, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

Autumn Houseplant Care

Adjusting to Shorter Days

As autumn approaches, houseplants need extra care to adjust to shorter days and changing conditions. Check if your plants need more light by observing them at different times of day. Move plants closer to windows to maximize sunlight.

Managing Heat and Humidity

Once the heating is turned on, move plants away from heat sources to prevent them from drying out. Group moisture-loving plants together to create a humid microclimate. Place plants in rooms like bathrooms and kitchens that have higher humidity levels.

Watering and Feeding

Reduce watering frequency as plant growth slows down in autumn. Check the soil before watering to avoid overwatering. Continue feeding flowering plants with a high-potash fertilizer.

Pest and Disease Prevention

Inspect plants thoroughly before bringing them indoors from outdoors to avoid pests. Wipe down leaves to remove dust and dirt. Cut back yellowing leaves and remove plant debris to prevent disease.

Seasonal Stars

Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior): Tolerates low light and neglect.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii): Purifies the air and has white, flag-like flowers.
Blue Star Fern (Phlebodium aureum): Prefers bright, humid environments.
Bunny Ears Cactus (Opuntia microdasys): Iconic cactus with flattened pads covered in hair-like spines.

Thrifty Tip

Try growing cacti from seed. Purchase seeds from seed suppliers or join the British Cacti and Succulent Society for access to seeds and resources.

Gardening

Autumn-Flowering Bulbs: A Beginner’s Guide to Planting, Care, and Varieties

by Donna February 28, 2024

written by Donna 4 minutes read

Autumn-Flowering Bulbs: A Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Autumn is a beautiful time of year, but it can also be a bit sad as the days get shorter and the flowers start to fade. However, there are some bulbs that bloom in autumn, providing a splash of color and cheer to the garden. In this article, we will discuss some of the most popular autumn-flowering bulbs, how to plant and care for them, and where to buy them.

Popular Autumn-Flowering Bulbs

There are many different types of autumn-flowering bulbs, but some of the most popular include:

Autumn crocus: These bulbs produce cup-shaped flowers in a range of colors, including purple, pink, and white. They are easy to grow and can be naturalized in lawns or planted in pots.
Crocosmia: Crocosmias are known for their showy spikes of flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow. They make excellent cut flowers and are also attractive to butterflies.
Nerines: Nerines are native to South Africa and produce clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of pink, red, and white. They are a bit more difficult to grow than some other autumn-flowering bulbs, but they are well worth the effort.
Sternbergia: Sternbergias are also known as autumn daffodils because their flowers resemble daffodils. They produce bright yellow flowers in the fall and are easy to grow in well-drained soil.
Hesperantha: Hesperanthas are native to South Africa and produce clusters of star-shaped flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow. They are a good choice for rock gardens or containers.
Alstroemerias: Alstroemerias are native to South America and produce clusters of funnel-shaped flowers in a wide range of colors. They are not fully hardy in cold climates, so they should be grown in containers or brought indoors over the winter.
Cyclamen hederifolium: Cyclamen hederifolium is a hardy autumn-flowering bulb that produces clusters of pink or white flowers. It is perfect for shady spots in the garden.

Planting and Care

Autumn-flowering bulbs are relatively easy to grow. Here are a few tips for planting and caring for them:

Planting: Plant autumn-flowering bulbs in late spring or summer, about two to three times deeper than the size of the bulb itself. Water well after planting.
Soil: Autumn-flowering bulbs prefer well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy, you can amend it with compost or sand.
Sunlight: Most autumn-flowering bulbs prefer full sun to partial shade. However, some, such as cyclamen hederifolium, can tolerate shady spots.
Water: Water autumn-flowering bulbs regularly, especially during dry periods.
Fertilizer: Fertilize autumn-flowering bulbs once a month with a balanced fertilizer.
Deadheading: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage new growth.
Overwintering: In cold climates, some autumn-flowering bulbs, such as alstroemerias, need to be protected from the cold. You can do this by mulching around the bulbs or digging them up and storing them in a cool, dry place over the winter.

Where to Buy

Autumn-flowering bulbs are available from most garden centers and online retailers. When buying bulbs, be sure to inspect them for signs of damage or decay.

Conclusion

Autumn-flowering bulbs are a great way to add color and cheer to your garden in the fall. They are relatively easy to grow and care for, and they come in a wide variety of colors and shapes. So, if you are looking for a way to brighten up your autumn garden, consider planting some autumn-flowering bulbs.

Gardening Basics

How to Grow Caryopteris: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

by Gregory January 12, 2024

written by Gregory 5 minutes read

How to Grow Caryopteris: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Caryopteris?

Caryopteris is a beautiful, low-maintenance shrub that produces colorful blooms in late summer and autumn. It is a deciduous plant, meaning it loses its leaves in the winter. Caryopteris is native to China and Japan, and it is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5-9.

Varieties of Caryopteris

There are many different varieties of caryopteris, each with its own unique flower color and foliage. Some of the most popular varieties include:

Heavenly Blue: This variety has azure blue flowers and gray-green foliage.
Dark Knight: This variety has dark blue-purple flowers and gray-green foliage.
Hint of Gold: This variety has deep blue flowers and yellow-green leaves.

How to Grow Caryopteris

Caryopteris is a relatively easy plant to grow. It prefers well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant, but it will bloom more profusely if it is watered regularly.

To grow caryopteris, follow these steps:

Choose a planting site that receives full sun to partial shade and has well-drained soil.
Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the plant and just as deep.
Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.
Water the plant deeply and regularly, especially during the first growing season.
Mulch around the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

How to Care for Caryopteris

Caryopteris is a low-maintenance plant that requires very little care. Once established, it will only need to be watered during periods of drought. It does not need to be fertilized, but it will benefit from an occasional application of compost or manure.

In the spring, caryopteris should be pruned back hard to encourage new growth and flowering. Cut back all of the old stems to the same height, leaving only a few pairs of strong buds on each stem.

How to Propagate Caryopteris

Caryopteris can be propagated by softwood cuttings or by seed.

To propagate caryopteris by softwood cuttings, follow these steps:

Take 6-inch cuttings from new growth in the spring or summer.
Remove all but the top two or three leaves from each cutting.
Dip the cut end of each cutting in rooting hormone and insert it into a pot filled with moist potting mix.
Place the pot in a warm, sunny location and keep the potting mix moist.
The cuttings should root within 4-6 weeks.

To propagate caryopteris by seed, follow these steps:

Collect the seeds from the seed heads in the fall.
Sow the seeds in a pot filled with moist potting mix.
Place the pot in a cold frame or refrigerator for 6 weeks to stratify the seeds.
After 6 weeks, move the pot to a warm, sunny location and keep the potting mix moist.
The seeds should germinate within 4-6 weeks.

Pests and Diseases

Caryopteris is not generally affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if it is grown in waterlogged soil.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Here are some common problems that you may encounter when growing caryopteris:

Leaves turning yellow: This can be a sign of nutrient deficiency. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer.
Leaves wilting: This can be a sign of drought stress. Water the plant deeply and regularly.
No flowers: This can be a sign that the plant is not getting enough sunlight. Move the plant to a sunnier location.
Root rot: This can be a problem if the plant is grown in waterlogged soil. Improve the drainage of the soil or move the plant to a new location.

Companion Plants for Caryopteris

Caryopteris can be planted with a variety of other plants, including:

Lavender
Cistus
Salvia
Aster
Rudbeckia
Crocosmia

These plants will help to create a beautiful and colorful garden display.

Flower Gardening

Brighten Your Garden with Yellow Flowers: A Guide to Choosing, Planting, and Care

by Donna January 7, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Yellow Flowers: A Guide to Brightening Your Garden

Introduction

Yellow flowers add a cheerful touch to any garden. They come in a wide variety of shades, from pale lemon to deep gold, and can be used to create a variety of effects.

Choosing Yellow Flowers

When choosing yellow flowers for your garden, consider the following factors:

Bloom time: Some yellow flowers bloom in spring, while others bloom in summer or autumn. Choose flowers that will bloom during the time of year you want to add color to your garden.
Size and shape: Yellow flowers come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Consider the size and shape of your garden when choosing flowers.
Growing conditions: Some yellow flowers are easy to grow, while others require more care. Choose flowers that are well-suited to the growing conditions in your garden.

Planting and Care

Once you’ve chosen your yellow flowers, it’s time to plant them. Most yellow flowers prefer to be planted in well-drained soil that receives full sun. Water your flowers regularly, especially during hot weather.

Different Types of Yellow Flowers

There are many different types of yellow flowers, including:

Daffodils: These cheerful flowers are a sign of spring. They come in a variety of shades of yellow, from pale lemon to deep gold.
Roses: Yellow roses are a classic choice for gardens. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and many varieties are fragrant.
Sunflowers: These tall, stately flowers are a favorite of pollinators. They come in a variety of sizes and colors, including yellow.
Marigolds: These easy-to-grow flowers are a great choice for beginners. They come in a variety of colors, including yellow.
Coneflowers: These daisy-shaped flowers are a favorite of butterflies and bees. They come in a variety of colors, including yellow.

Using Yellow Flowers in Your Garden

Yellow flowers can be used in a variety of ways in the garden. Here are a few ideas:

Create a focal point: Plant a mass of yellow flowers to create a focal point in your garden.
Add height to your garden: Plant tall yellow flowers, such as sunflowers or verbascums, to add height to your garden.
Attract pollinators: Plant yellow flowers that are attractive to pollinators, such as sunflowers or marigolds.
Create a cheerful atmosphere: Yellow flowers are a great way to add a cheerful touch to your garden.

With so many different types of yellow flowers to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect ones to brighten up your garden.

Gardening

Halloween Pumpkins: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing and Carving the Perfect Gourd

by Donna January 6, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Halloween Pumpkins: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing and Carving the Perfect Gourd

Introduction

Pumpkins are the quintessential symbol of Halloween, representing both the autumn harvest and spooky decorations. Choosing the perfect pumpkin can be a daunting task, but with a little knowledge, you can find the ideal pumpkin for your needs.

Types of Pumpkins

Pumpkins come in various shapes, sizes, and colors. The classic orange pumpkin is the most popular, but you can also find pumpkins in yellow, green, and even white. Small pumpkins are perfect for traditional jack-o’-lanterns, while larger pumpkins are better for more elaborate carvings.

Choosing Pumpkins for Carving

If you’re planning on carving a pumpkin, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Size and Shape: The size and shape of the pumpkin will determine the type of design you can carve. Taller pumpkins are better for tall, narrow designs, while round pumpkins are better for smaller, round designs.
Smoothness: Choose pumpkins that are smooth and uniform. This will make it easier to carve and will help the pumpkin sit up better.
Stem: Avoid pumpkins with damaged or broken stems. The stem is important for holding the pumpkin upright and preventing it from falling apart.

Choosing Pumpkins for Decoration

If you’re not planning on carving your pumpkin, you can choose one based on its appearance. Look for pumpkins that are free of bruises or blemishes. Smooth, uniform pumpkins will sit up better and look more attractive as decorations.

Pumpkin Picking Tips

Once you’ve decided on the type of pumpkin you want, follow these tips to make choosing the perfect pumpkin easier:

Inspect the Pumpkin: Carefully inspect the pumpkin for any bruises, cuts, or soft spots. These imperfections can shorten the pumpkin’s lifespan.
Feel the Pumpkin: Pick up the pumpkin and feel it for any soft spots. Soft spots indicate that the pumpkin is starting to rot.
Lift the Pumpkin by the Bottom: Never lift a pumpkin by its stem. This can cause the stem to break off. Instead, lift the pumpkin by its bottom.
Don’t Drop the Pumpkin: Dropping a pumpkin can damage it. Be careful when handling your pumpkin, especially if it’s large or heavy.

Carving Your Pumpkin

Once you’ve chosen the perfect pumpkin, it’s time to carve it. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Draw Your Design: Use a pencil or marker to draw your design on the pumpkin. This will help you stay on track while carving.
Use Sharp Tools: Use sharp carving tools to make clean, precise cuts. Dull tools can make carving difficult and dangerous.
Carve Slowly and Carefully: Take your time and carve slowly and carefully. Rushing can lead to mistakes or injuries.
Light Up Your Pumpkin: Once you’ve finished carving your pumpkin, light it up with a candle or electric light. This will create a spooky and festive atmosphere.

Conclusion

Choosing and carving the perfect Halloween pumpkin can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can find the perfect pumpkin for your needs and create a spooky and festive decoration for your home.

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