kate burtonwood -- Lover of Green Things, rhs and botanically trained horticulturist, happy gardener
FutureLearn is a private company, owned by the Open University, which provides free online courses developed by various institutions. I had heard of FutureLearn but never looked at what it offered. I read about an interesting-sounding course called “Learn About The Weather”, which is billed …
Gardeners must keep a beady eye on the weather at the best of times. But at this time of year it becomes a mania – especially with the quick onset of Autumn we have been experiencing this September. As well as the day by …
I seem to have spent more time staking this August than in previous years. The dry hot early summer followed by the deluges of the last month have led to huge bursts of growth. A lot of the staking I’d put in place in …
Change pots: With the days getting shorter and temperatures falling next month, it’s time to think about changing plants in your pots to give an Autumn/Winter display. I’ve done one of mine here. Lawncare: September is the month for scarifying and giving your …
The autumnal weather this week made me think about changing some of my pots a little early. Some violas caught my eye at the garden centre, and suddenly I was planning my Autumn/Winter pots. This one is very simple, and cheap. Three Viola …
Between you and me – I can struggle to identify a tree at a glance. So I was excited this week to see that the excellent Woodland Trust has brought out a tree identification app. Armed with my iPhone, I set off for a …
Visit gardens with later Summer borders and prairie plantings. Many of these will be at their height, so don’t miss out. In the garden: Weeding and Deadheading. It’s the bread and butter of the summer months. Planning ahead: Start taking cuttings of tender …
Encountering overgrown borders can be daunting. Particularly if you are trying to restore them, and working on a budget, rather than being able to go for raze, remove, replant. Sorting through, and watching the development of your plants may reveal some gems, as well …
We professionals are supposed to maintain a certain nonchalance about the Chelsea Flower Show. Is it the flagship of British horticultural endeavour, or is it a bit like Ladies’ Day at Ascot, with flowers instead of horsies? I embarrass myself with some colleagues by …
“Why are you digging up the bluebells? They’re so pretty!” This is the comment I have had all week from garden owners and passers-by. I love bluebells, so I can see why their removal will seem like a contradiction. There are a couple of factors. …