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Gardening

Create a Fragrant Summer Garden: A Guide to Choosing and Growing Scented Plants

by Gregory
written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Creating a Fragrant Summer Garden

Summer wouldn’t be complete without the sweet scents that fill the air. Creating a scented garden is a wonderful way to enjoy the beauty and fragrance of nature all season long.

Choosing the Right Plants

The key to a successful scented garden is choosing the right plants. Look for varieties that are known for their strong fragrance, such as:

  • Pelargoniums (scented geraniums)
  • Chinese lilies (Lilium regale)
  • Tobacco plant (Nicotiana sylvestris)
  • Honeysuckle (Lonicera periclymenum ‘Serotina’)
  • Rambling roses (Rosa ‘Paul’s Himalayan Musk’)
  • Chocolate cosmos (Cosmos astrosanguineus)
  • Night-scented stock (Matthiola longipetala)
  • Sweet peas (Lathyrus odoratus)

Other Scented Summer Plants

In addition to the plants listed above, there are many other summer bloomers that offer a delightful fragrance. Consider adding these to your garden as well:

  • Evening primrose (Oenethera biennis)
  • Alba roses (Rosa ‘Alba Semiplena’)
  • Mock orange (Philadelphus)
  • Night-blooming jasmine (Cestrum nocturnum)
  • Jasmine (Jasminum officinale)
  • Jasmine scented climber (Trachelospermum jasminoides)

Planning for Year-Round Scent

With a little planning, you can enjoy the fragrance of flowers in your garden all year round. Here are some tips:

  • Choose plants that bloom at different times of the year.
  • Plant scented shrubs and climbers that will provide fragrance even when they’re not in bloom.
  • Consider adding night-blooming plants to your garden so you can enjoy their fragrance in the evening.

Creating a Scented Garden

Once you’ve chosen your plants, it’s time to create your scented garden. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

  • Group plants with similar scents together to create a more intense fragrance.
  • Plant tall, fragrant plants in the back of your garden and shorter plants in the front.
  • Consider the height and spread of your plants when planting to ensure they have enough space to grow.
  • Water your plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
  • Fertilize your plants according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

With a little care and attention, you can create a beautiful and fragrant summer garden that you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Tips for Growing Scented Plants

  • Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
  • Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve fertility.
  • Water your plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
  • Fertilize your plants according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Deadhead spent blooms to encourage new growth and flowering.

By following these tips, you can help your scented plants thrive and fill your garden with their beautiful fragrance.

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Gardening

Monthly Q&A: Get Expert Gardening Advice for All Your Plant Problems

by Gregory
written by Gregory 5 minutes read

Monthly Q&A: Get Expert Gardening Advice

Finding Answers to Your Gardening Questions

Every month, our expert horticulturalists answer a selection of your gardening questions. Submit your questions for a chance to have them featured in our monthly Q&A video.

August 2023 Q&A

Controlling Red Spider Mite in Greenhouses

Red spider mites are tiny pests that can infest greenhouses, causing damage to plants. To control them, try using insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also increase humidity in the greenhouse by misting plants regularly or placing a humidifier nearby.

Growing Raised Beds on Gravel

Yes, you can place raised beds for vegetables on top of gravel. However, you need to ensure that the gravel is well-drained to prevent waterlogging. You should also add a layer of landscape fabric between the gravel and the raised bed to prevent weeds from growing.

Dahlia Pests and Diseases

If the leaves and flowers of your dahlias have been eaten, it could be due to pests such as slugs, snails, or caterpillars. To control these pests, you can use slug and snail bait or insecticidal soap. You can also try companion planting with marigolds or nasturtiums, which deter pests.

Dealing with Cleavers on Compost Heaps

Cleavers are a common weed that can infest compost heaps. To remove them, you can pull them out by hand or use a hoe to cut them down. You can also cover the compost heap with a tarp or cardboard to block out light and prevent cleavers from growing.

Preventing Lavender Plants from Flopping Over

Lavender plants can flop over due to several reasons, including overwatering, too much fertilizer, or lack of sunlight. To prevent this, make sure to water your lavender plants deeply but infrequently. Avoid over-fertilizing, and provide your plants with plenty of sunlight.

Additional Gardening Questions and Answers

July 2023

  • How to control weeds in your garden
  • Encouraging flowers on lower stems of ‘Gertrude Jekyll’ climbing roses
  • Troubleshooting beetroot and radish development issues
  • Propagating plants from basal and root cuttings
  • Choosing plants for hot, dry summers

June 2023

  • Preventing pear midge from damaging pears
  • Moving an acer tree planted six weeks ago
  • Identifying and treating brown leaves on agapanthus plants
  • Using two-year old comfrey feed
  • Disposing of dug-up Spanish bluebells

May 2023

  • Growing potatoes in grow bags under apple trees
  • Treating black spot and rust on roses
  • Fertilizing new tomato plants
  • Understanding the difference between vermiculite and perlite
  • Reusing old compost from containers

April 2023

  • Alternatives to artificial lawns
  • Pruning time for lilacs
  • Troubleshooting brown foliage on moth orchids
  • Encouraging flowering in tulips
  • Extending the flowering period of sweet peas

March 2023

  • Creating a wildflower meadow from a small patch of lawn
  • Planting climbing roses in winter
  • Planting and caring for chitted potatoes
  • Maintaining a lawn: scarifying, mowing, and weed and feed
  • Moving seedlings from propagators to windowsills

February 2023

  • Reviving winter-damaged evergreen agapanthus
  • Pruning fuchsias in winter or spring
  • Moving Salvia x jamensis ‘Hot Lips’
  • Eliminating mealybug on orchids and streptocarpus
  • Growing asparagus in raised beds

January 2023

  • Identifying and treating leaf loss in pittosporum
  • Understanding stunted leek growth
  • Managing pine needles at the base of trees
  • Planting spring bulbs in late winter
  • Pruning sambucus trees

December 2022

  • Using water from a smelly water butt
  • Caring for banana plants in winter
  • Encouraging reblooming in amaryllis
  • Controlling woolly aphid infestations on beech hedges
  • Troubleshooting beetroot plug failure

November 2022

  • Utilizing greenhouses over winter
  • Winter mulching perennials without burying crowns
  • Improving flowering in old climbing roses
  • Removing variegated alder trees with coral spots
  • Eliminating worm casts from lawns

October 2022

  • Improving water retention in peat-free compost
  • Pruning summer- or autumn-fruiting raspberries
  • Removing large, unripened figs
  • Controlling fuchsia gall mite
  • Potting or planting newly purchased perennials

September 2022

  • Reusing old compost effectively
  • Using pot feet or saucers for containers
  • Reviving a damaged lawn
  • Troubleshooting wisteria dieback
  • Treating brown rot in plum trees

August 2022

  • Rehydrating dehydrated potted hydrangeas
  • Understanding ‘loam’ and its benefits for compost
  • Controlling black spot on roses without spraying
  • Troubleshooting runner bean failure
  • Identifying the cause of brassica plants with no centre

July 2022

  • Watering frequency for dahlias and sweet peas
  • Managing powdery mildew on plants
  • Taking cuttings from leggy pinks
  • Understanding why vegetable plants produce all leaves and no fruit
  • Identifying and managing non-fruiting stems on summer-fruiting raspberries
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Gardening Q&A

Gardening Q&A: August Edition – Expert Answers to Your Plant Care Questions

by Donna
written by Donna 2 minutes read

Gardening Q&A: August Edition

Plant Care Questions and Expert Answers

Our gardening experts are here to answer your questions every month. Here are some of the questions they tackled in August:

Reviving Dehydrated Potted Hydrangeas

If your potted hydrangeas are looking wilted and sad, don’t despair! Here’s how to bring them back to life:

  • Water deeply and regularly: Give your hydrangeas a thorough soaking and keep the soil moist.
  • Provide shade: Hydrangeas prefer partial shade, so move them out of direct sunlight if they’re getting too much.
  • Prune away dead leaves: Remove any brown or yellow leaves to encourage new growth.

Understanding Loam

Loam is a type of soil that’s a mixture of sand, silt, and clay. It’s ideal for gardening because it drains well but still holds moisture. To improve your soil, you can add loam to your compost.

Controlling Black Spot on Roses

Black spot is a common fungal disease that affects roses. If you don’t want to use sprays, try these natural methods:

  • Plant resistant varieties: Choose roses that are less susceptible to black spot.
  • Improve air circulation: Prune your roses to allow for good airflow.
  • Water at the base of the plant: Avoid getting the leaves wet, as this can spread the disease.

Other Gardening Questions

  • Why have my runner beans failed? Could be due to poor pollination, lack of water, or nutrient deficiencies.
  • Why have my brassicas grown without a center? Could be caused by boron deficiency or excessive nitrogen.
  • How often should I water my dahlias and sweet peas? Dahlias need daily watering, while sweet peas need less frequent watering.
  • How to control powdery mildew on plants? Use neem oil or a baking soda spray.
  • When is a good time to take cuttings from leggy pinks? Take cuttings in late summer or early fall.
  • Why are my vegetable plants producing only leaves? Could be due to lack of sunlight, overwatering, or nutrient imbalances.
  • What to do with long, non-fruiting stems on summer-fruiting raspberries? Cut them back to the ground in late winter or early spring.
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Container Gardening

Creative Containers: Your Ultimate Guide to Stunning Summer Displays

by Donna
written by Donna 2 minutes read

Creative Containers: Your Guide to Summer Success

Get Inspired and Create Stunning Container Displays

This free guide is packed with inspiration and essential tips to help you create a beautiful and thriving container display this summer.

Foolproof Plants for Your Containers

Choose the right plants for your containers to ensure they thrive all season long. Our guide includes a list of foolproof plants that are easy to care for and will add a splash of color to your display.

Essential Care for Healthy Containers

Follow our simple care tips to keep your containers looking their best. We’ll cover watering, fertilizing, and other essential tasks to ensure your plants stay healthy and vibrant.

Creative Ideas to Enhance Your Display

Add a personal touch to your container display with these creative ideas. From unique planters to clever plant combinations, we’ve got you covered.

Create a Spectacular Display That Lasts

With our expert advice, you can create a container display that will impress your friends and family all summer long. Our guide will help you choose the right plants, care for them properly, and add creative touches to make your display truly spectacular.

Download Your Free Guide Today!

Don’t miss out on this valuable resource. Download your free digital copy of our Creative Containers guide today and get started on creating the perfect container display for your summer enjoyment.

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Flower Gardening

Growing Gypsophila: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

by Gregory
written by Gregory 4 minutes read

How to Grow Gypsophila: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Gypsophila, commonly known as baby’s breath, is a beautiful and versatile plant that adds a delicate touch to gardens and bouquets. With its tiny, white or pink flowers, gypsophila is a favorite among gardeners and florists alike. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into everything you need to know about growing gypsophila, from choosing the right variety to caring for your plants and preventing common problems.

Choosing the Right Variety

There are many different varieties of gypsophila, each with its own unique characteristics. Some popular varieties include:

  • Gypsophila paniculata ‘Snowflake’: A perennial variety with masses of snow-white flowers that bloom on strong stems in early summer. Perfect for bouquets, dried flower arrangements, and filling gaps in the border.
  • Gypsophila paniculata ‘Bristol Fairy’: A perennial variety with double white flowers, also good for filling gaps in the border, cutting, and dried flowers.
  • Gypsophila ‘Rosenscheier’: A compact, perennial variety with white flowers that fade to pink as they mature.
  • Gypsophila elegans ‘Covent Garden’: A pretty white annual variety that’s excellent for cutting.
  • Gypsophila cerastiodes (mouse-eared gypsophila): A dwarf, semi-evergreen alpine type with a creeping habit. Green-grey, hairy leaves contrast with masses of small white trumpet-shaped flowers in spring and summer, loved by pollinators.
  • Gypsohila repens ‘Rosea’: A pretty, creeping pink variety, ideal for rockeries or planting in stone walls.

Growing Conditions

Gypsophila prefers well-drained soil that is slightly alkaline or neutral. They also need full sun to thrive. If your soil is heavy or acidic, you can amend it with compost and grit to improve drainage and pH levels.

Planting

When planting gypsophila, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball 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 after planting.

Care

Gypsophila is relatively easy to care for. Here are a few tips:

  • Watering: Water your gypsophila plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
  • Fertilizing: Feed your gypsophila plants every few weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
  • Support: Taller varieties of gypsophila may need support in windy spots. Use pea sticks or brushwood to provide support.
  • Deadheading: Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage repeat flowering.

Propagation

Gypsophila can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or division.

  • Seed: Sow seeds of annual gypsophila directly in the garden in spring or fall. Perennial varieties can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
  • Cuttings: Take basal cuttings from perennial gypsophila in spring or summer. Root the cuttings in a moist rooting medium.
  • Division: Alpine varieties of gypsophila can be divided in spring or fall.

Problem Solving

Gypsophila are generally trouble-free plants, but they can occasionally be affected by pests or diseases.

  • Pests: Aphids and spider mites are the most common pests that affect gypsophila. Treat infestations with an insecticidal soap spray.
  • Diseases: Gypsophila can be susceptible to root rot and stem rot in poorly drained soil. Avoid overwatering and improve drainage by adding grit to the soil.

Conclusion

Growing gypsophila is a rewarding experience that can add beauty and charm to your garden or bouquets. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you can enjoy the delicate blooms of gypsophila season after season.

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Gardening

Gardening Q&A for June: Answers to Your Plant Care Questions

by Gregory
written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Gardening Q&A for June

Pear Tree Pests

Pear midge can ruin your pears. To prevent this, consider using horticultural oil or neem oil as a natural pesticide.

Moving a Young Acer

If you need to move an acer that you planted recently, do it carefully. Dig up the tree with a wide root ball and replant it immediately in a new location.

Brown Agapanthus Leaves

Brown leaves on agapanthus can be caused by overwatering or underwatering. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

Using Old Comfrey Feed

Two-year-old comfrey feed is still effective as a nutrient-rich fertilizer for your plants. Dilute it with water before applying it to your garden.

Disposing of Spanish Bluebells

Spanish bluebells are invasive plants. To dispose of them, dig them up and place them in a sealed plastic bag. Do not compost them, as this can spread the bulbs.

Other Gardening Questions

  • Can I plant potatoes in a grow bag under my apple tree?
  • How can I treat black spot and rust on my roses?
  • Should I feed my new tomato plants?
  • What is the difference between vermiculite and perlite?
  • What is the best use for old compost from containers?
  • How can I turn a small patch of lawn into a wildflower meadow?
  • When should I plant out climbing roses?
  • When should I plant out my chitted potatoes?
  • What is the right order for scarifying, mowing, and applying weed and feed to my lawn?
  • Should I remove my seedlings from the propagator and put them on my windowsill?

Additional Gardening Tips

  • It looks like I’ve lost my evergreen agapanthus in the wintery weather, is there anything I can do to save it?
  • Can I prune a fuchsia during winter, or should I wait until spring?
  • Is it possible to move a Salvia x jamensis ‘Hot Lips’, and if so, when?
  • What is the best way to eliminate mealybug on my orchids and streptocarpus?
  • Can I grow asparagus in a raised bed, and how many crowns would fit in?

Remember to submit your gardening questions to our experts each month for a chance to have them answered in our next Q&A article!

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Flower Gardening

Creeping Phlox: A Hardy and Colorful Groundcover for Gardens

by Donna
written by Donna 2 minutes read

Creeping Phlox: A Hardy Groundcover for Gardens

Introduction

Creeping phlox, also known as moss phlox, is a popular and easy-to-grow plant for rock gardens, raised beds, and border edges. It’s non-invasive and forms neat cushions or mats of slender stems with narrow evergreen leaves.

Growing Conditions

Creeping phlox prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer areas. It needs well-drained, light, and sandy soil.

Flowers and Foliage

In late spring and early summer, creeping phlox produces masses of tiny, saucer-shaped flowers in a range of colors. The foliage is evergreen and makes useful ground cover to prevent weeds, but it has no real ornamental value.

Care and Maintenance

Once established, creeping phlox is relatively trouble-free to grow. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew in hot, dry weather, and stem and bulb eelworm.

Benefits for Wildlife

Creeping phlox is known for attracting bees, which are important pollinators.

How to Choose and Buy Creeping Phlox

  • Choose the right color for your desired planting location.
  • Buy from a reputable company to ensure healthy plants.
  • Check plants for signs of damage or disease before planting.

Planting and Care Calendar

  • Plant creeping phlox in spring or fall.
  • Water regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
  • Fertilize lightly in spring and fall.
  • Divide plants every few years to maintain vigor.
  • Prune lightly after flowering to encourage new growth.

Conclusion

Creeping phlox is a versatile and hardy groundcover that adds color and interest to gardens. Its low maintenance requirements make it a great choice for busy gardeners or those new to gardening.

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Container Gardening

Create Beautiful April Pots: The Ultimate Thriller, Filler, Spiller Guide

by Gregory
written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Create Beautiful April Pots with the Thriller, Filler, Spiller Formula

Introduction

Add instant color and beauty to your garden with stunning container displays. Our simple “Thriller, Filler, Spiller” formula will help you create gorgeous pots every time.

Thriller Plants

These are the stars of your pot, providing color and impact. Choose plants with striking flowers or foliage, like:

  • Hyacinthus orientalis (blue, pink, or white flowers)
  • Lamprocapnos spectabilis (bleeding heart with pink-red flowers)
  • Fritillaria imperialis (orange bell-shaped flowers)
  • Tulips (various colors)

Filler Plants

Fillers make your display look fuller and more interesting. Choose plants with similar colors to your thriller or opt for contrasting shades. Some good options include:

  • Polypodium vulgare (fern with ladder-like foliage)
  • Campanula portenschlagiana (ivy-like leaves)
  • Euphorbia epithymoides (cushion spurge with yellow flowers)
  • Myosotis sylvatica (forget-me-not with blue flowers)

Spiller Plants

Spillers soften the look of your pot and hide bare compost. They also fill in gaps. Try these varieties:

  • Phlox subulata ‘McDaniel’s Cushion’ (pink flowers)
  • Sedum brevifolium (tiny succulent foliage)
  • Carex elata ‘Aurea’ (bright yellow leaves)
  • Senecio cineraria ‘Silver Dust’ (silvery-grey leaves)

Tips for Success

  • Use at least one plant from each category.
  • Choose complementary or contrasting colors.
  • Consider the height and shape of each plant.
  • Plant your bulbs in the fall for spring blooms.
  • Follow our formula for stunning April pots that will brighten your garden.
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Shrubs

Growing Camellias: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by Gregory
written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Growing Camellias: A Guide for Beginners

Introduction

Camellias are beautiful evergreen shrubs that produce stunning flowers in late winter to early spring. They come in a wide variety of colors and shapes, and they’re relatively easy to care for. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about growing camellias, from choosing the right location to preventing pests and diseases.

Choosing the Right Location

Camellias prefer to grow in dappled shade or full shade. They also need protection from the wind, so choose a spot that is sheltered from harsh weather. The soil should be moist and well-drained, and it should have an acidic pH of around 6 to 6.5.

Planting Camellias

The best time to plant camellias is in the fall or spring. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the camellia in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the camellia well and mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture.

Caring for Camellias

Camellias are relatively low-maintenance plants, but they do require some basic care. Water them regularly, especially during the summer months. Fertilize them with an ericaceous fertilizer in the spring and fall. And prune them lightly after they have finished flowering to remove any dead or diseased branches.

Pests and Diseases

Camellias are susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including scale insects, aphids, and camellia flower blight. To prevent these problems, keep your camellias healthy by providing them with the right growing conditions. If you do notice any pests or diseases, treat them promptly with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.

Choosing the Right Camellia Variety

There are many different varieties of camellias available, so it’s important to choose one that is right for your climate and growing conditions. Some popular varieties include:

  • Camellia ‘Water Lily’: This variety has deep pink flowers that bloom from February to April.
  • Camellia ‘Cornish Snow’: This variety has white flowers that bloom from February to April.
  • Camellia x williamsii ‘Contribution’: This variety has pink flowers with bright yellow stamens.
  • Camellia sasanqua ‘Crimson King’: This variety has red flowers that bloom from October to December.
  • Camellia Quintessence: This variety has white flowers that bloom from February to April.

Conclusion

Camellias are beautiful and easy-to-care-for plants that can add a touch of elegance to any garden. By following the tips in this guide, you can grow healthy and beautiful camellias that will thrive for years to come.

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Gardening

Essential Gardening Skills for Beginners: A Step-by-Step Guide

by Donna
written by Donna 2 minutes read

Essential Gardening Skills for Beginners

Understanding Your Soil

Soil is the foundation of a healthy garden. To determine your soil type, you can conduct a simple test. Heavy soils contain a lot of clay, while light soils have more sand. The ideal soil texture is a happy medium, with a balance of both.

Seed Sowing

Sowing seeds is easy if you follow a few basic rules. First, store your seeds in a cool, dry place. Choose the right compost for your seeds, and prepare your pots with drainage holes. Then, sow your seeds thinly and cover them with a thin layer of compost.

Pricking Out and Thinning Seedlings

Once your seedlings have emerged, you need to thin them out to give them room to grow. Use a pair of scissors to cut away any weak or crowded seedlings. You can also prick out seedlings and replant them in individual pots.

Basic Planting

When planting your seedlings, it’s important to prepare the planting hole properly. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of your plant. Place your plant in the hole and fill it with soil, gently firming it down. Water your plant deeply after planting.

More Essential Skills

For more advanced gardening skills, check out our other articles:

  • Essential Gardening Skills – Part Two
  • Essential Gardening Skills – Part Three

Conclusion

Mastering these essential gardening skills will help you grow a beautiful and thriving garden. Remember to be patient and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

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