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How to Keep Your Garden Plants Thriving in the Summer Heat with a Hosepipe Ban

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy your garden. However, the heat can be damaging to your plants & keeping them healthy & thriving can be a challenge, especially when there is a hosepipe ban. Here are some easy tips to help you keep your plants hydrated & ensure that your garden remains a beautiful oasis throughout the summer.

Choose the right time to water your plants

One of the best ways to water your garden plants without violating the hosepipe ban is to use a watering can or a bucket. When picking the right time to water your plants, choose the cooler parts of the day – early morning or late afternoon. This will give your plants more time to absorb the water before the heat of the day sets in & the water is likely to evaporate.

Use mulch in your garden

Mulch is a fantastic way to reduce moisture loss & keep your garden plants hydrated for longer. Mulch is usually made from decaying leaves, bark, or compost, placed on top of your soil & provides your plants with essential nutrients & moisture. Mulch also helps to suppress weed growth, so your plants have fewer competitors for water.

If you want to save time and energy while keeping your garden plants hydrated during the hosepipe ban, consider installing a drip irrigation system. This is a system where your plants are watered through a network of pipes that deliver water directly to their roots. Drip irrigation systems ensure that water is used efficiently, while minimising water loss due to evaporation.

Another way to make sure your plants can withstand the summer heat is to choose heat-tolerant varieties. These are plants that naturally grow in hot climates such as succulents. Adding these plants to your garden ensures that you have a more resilient garden that can withstand dry, hot conditions.

During the hosepipe ban, it’s important to use water wisely. Avoid using water for non-essential purposes, such as washing your car or watering your lawn. Instead, use water only for critical tasks such as watering your garden plants, pets or personal hygiene. Small amounts of water applied according to need can make all the difference in the health of your plants.

Keeping your garden plants thriving during the hot summer months is a challenge that requires a little careful planning and some light maintenance. Remember to choose the right time to water your plants, use mulch, consider drip irrigation, opt for heat-tolerant varieties & use water wisely.

Take a look at our great Watering Can Range

Gardening Activities for Children

School holidays are the perfect time for children to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. And what better way to keep them occupied than by getting them involved in a fun and rewarding activity like gardening? Not only will they learn a new skill, but gardening projects can also help children to develop their creativity, patience, and sense of responsibility. We explore some garden projects that are perfect for children during school holidays. These are all low cost activities that families can enjoy together.

Planting vegetables and herbs is a great way to get children interested in gardening. It’s also a fun way to teach them about sustainability and where their food comes from. Start by selecting some easy-to-grow plants like tomatoes, lettuce, basil, and parsley. Let children help with sowing the seeds, planting in the plants and watering them. Encourage them to keep track of the plants’ progress by taking photos or measuring their growth each week. Once the plants start producing, involve children in harvesting, cooking and eating their own homegrown food.

A sensory garden is a garden designed to engage all five senses – touch, smell, taste, sound and sight. It’s a great way to stimulate children’s curiosity and spark their imagination. Start by selecting some plants with interesting textures, smells and colours. Eg lavender can be used for its soothing aroma, while sunflowers can be enjoyed for their vibrant colour. Herbs like mint and rosemary can also be planted for their fragrant scents. Encourage children to touch the plants, smell them and even taste some of the edible ones.

Building a bug hotel is another fun garden project that children can enjoy. A bug hotel is like a mini-hotel for insects, providing a safe and comfortable place for them to live and breed. Start by gathering some natural materials like twigs, leaves, pine cones, and bark. Then, create a simple structure like a box or a frame. Allow children to fill the structure with the natural materials, making sure to leave plenty of spaces and crevices for the insects to crawl into. Encourage children to observe the bug hotel over time and see what kind of insects move in.

Painting garden rocks is a fun and creative activity that children of all ages can enjoy. It’s a great way to add some colour and personality to the garden while also giving children a sense of ownership and pride in their work. Start by gathering some smooth rocks of different sizes and shapes. Provide children with some paint, brushes, glitter and other decorative items. Encourage them to let their imaginations run wild and create unique designs on each rock. Once the rocks are dry, find a suitable spot in the garden to display them.

Creating a fairy garden is a magical and enchanting project that children will love. It’s a garden designed to attract fairies and other mythical creatures, providing a sense of wonder and imagination. Start by selecting some small plants like miniature ferns, succulents, and moss. Then, add some miniature objects like fairy houses, bridges, and animals. Encourage children to add their own personal touch by creating unique features like fairy doorways or hidden treasures.

Gardening is a great way to keep children active, engaged, and learning during school holidays. These garden projects are perfect for families in the UK who are looking for free and fun activities to enjoy together. By involving children in gardening, we can encourage them to develop new skills, creativity, and a sense of responsibility for the world around them. So, whether you’re planting vegetables, building bug hotels or creating fairy gardens, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and learn from in the garden.

Take a look at our Children’s Gardening Tools

Further Reading: Children’s Gardening Week

Some Plants to Use in Your Garden to Attract Wildlife

As gardeners, we have a unique opportunity to create a space that not only looks beautiful but also serves as a sanctuary for wildlife. By including plants that attract birds, butterflies and other wildlife, we can help support local ecosystems and promote biodiversity.

Cat Mint – Nepeta Racemosa is a great option for attracting bees and butterflies to your garden. Not only is it beautiful with its purple flowers, but it also has a lovely scent. This plant is easy to grow and can thrive in full sun or partial shade.

Dutch Lavender – Lavandula intermedia Gros Bleu is a classic garden plant known for its beautiful scent and lovely purple flowers. Dutch Lavender is a hardy variety that attracts bees and butterflies. It needs full sun and well-draining soil to thrive.

Pussy Willow – Salix Capraea is a shrub that produces fuzzy catkins in the spring. These catkins provide food for early emerging bees and butterflies. This shrub is easy to grow and can tolerate wet soil conditions.

Marjoram – Origanum vulgare herb is a great option for attracting bees and butterflies to your garden. It produces beautiful pink flowers in the summer and has a lovely scent. Marjoram is easy to grow and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.

Giant Hyssop – Agastache foeniculum is a beautiful plant with purple flowers that attract bees and butterflies. It’s also a great source of nectar. This plant needs full sun and well-draining soil to thrive.

Buddleia – Buddleja davidii is commonly known as the butterfly bush, Buddleia is a must-have for any wildlife garden. Its long, fragrant blooms are irresistible to butterflies and moths, while also attracting bees and other pollinators. Moreover, the dense, bushy habit of Buddleia provides excellent cover for smaller wildlife such as mice and birds.

Sunflowers – Helianthus are a great choice for not only providing a bold splash of colour in your garden but also for attracting birds and bees. The large, open flowers and plentiful seeds are particularly appealing to species such as goldfinches and house sparrows. Additionally, sunflowers can also attract bees and other pollinators, making them a great addition to any wildlife garden.

Ivy – Hedera helix is often considered a nuisance plant, ivy can actually be incredibly beneficial to wildlife. As a late-flowering plant, ivy provides a vital source of nectar and pollen in the autumn months when other plants have finished blooming. Additionally, the dense foliage of ivy can provide vital shelter for birds and insects throughout the year.

Including wildlife-friendly plants in your garden is not only a fantastic way to promote biodiversity, but it also provides a chance to enjoy the beauty of nature from your own backyard. By planting a selection of the top plants we have covered, you can create a space that is not only visually stunning but also serves as a valuable habitat for local wildlife.

Further Reading: Helping Wildlife this Winter, Your Role in Garden Wildlife

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How to Preserve Chillis and Extend Their Shelf Life

If you’re an avid chilli lover, then you know how important it is to preserve your chillies and extend their shelf life. Whether you’ve grown them yourself or purchased them from a store, preserving your chillies not only ensures that they stay fresh for a longer period but also allows you to have a steady supply throughout the year.

Freezing Chillis

When it comes to preserving chillies, freezing is one of the easiest and most effective methods. If you’ve got a surplus of chillies or you’re worried about them going bad, then freezing them is a great option. All you need to do is wash the peppers and dry them thoroughly before placing them in a sealed container or freezer bag. For best results, consider cutting them into smaller pieces before freezing. This way, you can easily use just the amount you need and they will defrost quickly.

Drying Chillies

Drying is another popular way to preserve chillies. To dry chillies, simply string them together using a needle and thread and hang them in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated room. Alternatively, you can use an oven, dehydrator, or microwave to dry them. Dried chillies can be ground into a powder and used as a spice or left whole to be rehydrated and used in cooking.

Pickling Chillies

Pickling is a great way to preserve chillies while also adding flavour. There are many different pickling recipes out there, but the most basic one involves boiling vinegar, water, and salt before pouring it over the peppers in a jar. You can also add herbs and spices to the mix, depending on your personal preference. Pickled chillies are delicious on sandwiches, burgers, and tacos and can also be used as a garnish.

Canning Chillies

Canning involves sealing chillies in a jar with vinegar or oil and sterilizing them in boiling water. While canning requires some equipment and know-how, it’s one of the best ways to preserve chillies for long periods of time. Canned chillies can be used as a topping, in dips, or in chilli sauces.

Keeping Chillis Fresh

If you’re not quite ready to preserve your chillies, there are still some things you can do to extend their shelf life. Keeping them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight can help prevent them from spoiling. You can also store them in the refrigerator for a week or two. Additionally, placing them in a paper bag with an apple or banana can help absorb any excess moisture and keep them fresh for longer.

Preserving chillies is a great way to save money, reduce waste, and extend their shelf life. Whether you’re freezing, drying, pickling, or canning, each method has its unique benefits and can help you retain the flavour and heat of your chillies. So, go ahead and try preserving some of your chillies and enjoy your favourite spicy dishes all year round.

Further Reading: Troubleshooting Chilli Problems

Try our SowItGrowItandFeast Grow Chillies Pack

The Art of Olla: An Essential Guide for Gardeners

If you are looking for a simple yet effective way to effectively water your garden, an olla may be the perfect solution for you! Ollas are an ancient and environmentally friendly method of irrigation that gardeners have been using for centuries. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a beginner, the use of an olla can be a real game-changer. In this blog post, we will dive into what ollas are, how they work, and how to use them in your gardening practice.

Ollas are unglazed, porous clay pots that have been used for irrigation purposes for over 4,000 years. They are a traditional irrigation tool used mainly in arid regions to water plants without wasting a drop. Ollas have been used mainly by garden enthusiasts who want an eco-friendly, cost-effective alternative to watering methods like the sprinkler system or the garden hose.

If you are not familiar with the concept of olla irrigation, here’s how it works: you bury the olla in the ground near the roots of the plant or shrub you want to water. You then fill the pot with water, and the unglazed clay gradually releases moisture into the surrounding soil. The plant roots then absorb the water as needed, and the soil remains moist and fertile.

One of the best things about ollas is that they work well with almost any type of soil. Whether you have sandy soils, clay soils or loam, ollas will help regulate the moisture content of the soil and ensure that your plants get the water they need to thrive.

In terms of maintenance, caring for ollas is easy peasy. You don’t have to clean them regularly. When the seasons change or when you want to move the pots, it’s a good idea to soak the ollas in water for several hours to soften the clay and prevent any cracking.

When it comes to using ollas in your garden, it’s crucial to consider a few essential tips. For instance, you want to choose the right size of olla for your plants. A general rule of thumb is one olla per every two or three plants in the ground. That way, you can ensure adequate water distribution without leaving any plants parched.

Ollas are a fantastic invention that have stood the test of time. They offer an eco-friendly, cost-effective solution to traditional watering methods and are versatile enough to use in almost any garden setting. By following the simple guidelines outlined in this blog post, you’ll master the art of olla irrigation in no time, and your plants will thank you for it!

Further Reading: How to Keep your Garden Plants Thriving in the Summer Heat

How to Choose the Perfect Picnic Hamper

Summer is a great time of year to head out on a picnic & enjoy the great outdoors with your family & friends. But if you want to do it in style, you need a good picnic hamper that is both functional & beautiful. A well-made picnic hamper can hold everything you need for a successful outdoor picnic, from sandwiches & salads to drinks & snacks. In this blog post, we’ll go over some of the best tips for choosing the perfect picnic hamper for your next outdoor adventure, so you can enjoy your picnic in style!

Size & Capacity

The first thing you need to consider when choosing a picnic hamper is the size and capacity. Think about how many people you’ll be feeding, and how long you’ll be out on the picnic. Will you be having a simple lunch, or will you be spending the whole day in the park? A smaller hamper can be great for a couple, while a larger one will be needed for a family or larger group. Make sure to choose a hamper with enough storage space to hold everything you’ll need for your picnic.

Construction & Material

The next thing you should consider is the construction and materials used in making your picnic hamper. Quality construction will ensure that your hamper can withstand the rigours of outdoor use & last you for many years. Some popular materials for picnic hampers include wicker, bamboo, and canvas, each offering their own benefits and style. Wicker baskets are classic and beautiful, while bamboo is more lightweight and durable. Canvas is sturdy and weather-resistant.

Design & Style

Another important consideration when choosing a picnic hamper is the design and style. You want something that looks good & complements your personal style and the location you’ll be having your picnic. Take your time to find a hamper that matches your style preference and is both functional and beautiful. Many picnic hampers come with additional accessories, such as picnic blankets, plates, and glasses, which can elevate the experience.

Price Point

Finally, you’ll want to consider the price point when selecting your perfect picnic hamper. You can find picnic baskets in a range of prices, ranging from budget-friendly to premium, depending on the size, material, and accessories. Make sure to set a budget and stick to it. You can find good-quality picnic hampers at affordable prices if you shop around. Keep in mind that a well-made hamper will last you for many years, making it worth the investment.

Choosing the perfect picnic hamper is an essential part of planning the perfect outdoor adventure. Whether you want a classic wicker basket, a lightweight bamboo hamper, or a sturdy canvas bag, there’s something out there that will fit your style & budget. Consider the size & capacity, the materials used, the design & style, & the price point when selecting your perfect picnic hamper. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to find a hamper that will make your next picnic both stylish & functional.

Happy Picnicking!

How to Improve Your Soil Structure

Gardeners know that a healthy garden comes from healthy soil. Good soil structure allows for better drainage, deeper roots, and a nutrient-rich environment for plants to thrive in. But what if your soil is less than ideal? Don’t worry! You can improve your soil structure, so your garden can flourish.

Composting

One of the best ways to improve soil structure is by adding compost to your garden beds. Compost is rich in nutrients and microbes that help aerate the soil, making it more fertile. You can start your own compost bin using kitchen scraps, garden waste, and other organic materials. See ‘How to Run an Effective Compost Heap’

How to Improve your Soil Structure

Mulching

Mulch is another soil improvement tool that can help add nutrients to improve soil structure. Mulch is a layer of organic materials that is spread over the soil to prevent weed growth, retain moisture, and to provide insulation. We have some great tips on this in our ‘The Incredible Benefits of Mulching for Your Garden’ blog.

Cover Cropping

Cover cropping is a technique that involves planting a crop specifically to improve soil structure. Cover crops, like clover or vetch, are planted during the off-season and allowed to grow until just before planting the following year’s garden. As they grow, cover crops help to suppress weeds, add nutrients to the soil and protect soil structure from erosion. When the cover crop is dug in under, it will add organic matter to the soil, which helps improve soil structure.

Avoid Compaction

Finally, one of the easiest ways to maintain good soil structure is to avoid compaction. Walking or working on soil when it is wet can cause the soil structure to break down, which can lead to decreased drainage, aeration, and root growth. Be careful not to over-dig your garden beds and try to avoid walking on the soil as much as possible when it is wet.

Improving soil structure is crucial for a healthy garden. By following the above, you’ll be able to create a nutrient-rich environment for your plants to thrive.

The Truth about Cuckoo Spit: Everything You Need to Know

As a gardener, you may have come across a bubbly, white foam-like substance known as cuckoo spit. It may have alarmed you at first, but have no fear! This sticky substance is harmless to plants and can actually be a sign of a healthy garden

Cuckoo spit, also known as frog spittle or spittlebug foam, is a frothy substance found on plants during the spring & summer months. It is not actually related to cuckoos but is instead produced by the nymphs of the froghopper or spittlebug. These tiny insects pierce plant tissues with their mouthparts, causing the sap to leak onto the plant’s surface. The nymphs then surround themselves with a bubble of air and a secretion, creating the familiar foamy appearance known as cuckoo spit.

While cuckoo spit can look unpleasant, it is completely harmless to plants. In fact, it can actually benefit your garden by providing a protective barrier against predators & helping to regulate moisture levels in the soil. The froth also provides a cool, moist environment for the nymphs to develop in.

You may be wondering how to deal with cuckoo spit if it appears in your garden. The good news is that no action is necessary – the foam will eventually dry up and disappear on its own. However, if you’re bothered by the appearance, you can gently wash it off with water from a hose. Be sure not to damage the plant or disturb any beneficial insects while doing so.

It’s important to note that while cuckoo spit is harmless to plants, it can still attract predators such as ants or wasps. If you notice an increase in these insects, it could be a sign of an infestation and you may need to take action. In this case, the best course of action is to introduce natural predators such as lacewings to your garden to control the population of spittlebugs and other pests.

Cuckoo spit may look unsightly but is nothing to be worried about. It’s a natural occurrence that has no negative effects on plants and can even provide benefits to your garden.

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How to Create a Beautiful Wildflower Meadow Patch

Are you looking for a new way to enhance your garden’s natural beauty and attract more wildlife to your outdoor space? A wildflower meadow patch may be the answer! Not only do wildflowers add a pop of colour to your garden, but they also provide valuable food sources for pollinators.

We’ve covered everything you need to know to create a beautiful wildflower meadow patch in your garden.

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

The first step in creating a wildflower meadow patch is choosing the right location. Look for an area of your garden that receives plenty of sunlight, and where you are happy to let the wildflowers grow without needing to maintain them too much. Avoid areas that are already too rich in nutrients, such as near compost piles or in areas that have been fertilised, as these conditions favour grasses rather than wildflowers.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

Once you have chosen the location for your wildflower meadow, it’s time to prepare the soil. To do this, you will need to remove any weeds or grasses from the area and loosen the soil. You can use a garden fork or tiller for this task, making sure not to disturb the soil too much or make it too fine. If you need to add nutrients to the soil, do so at this stage, but be careful not to over-fertilise, as this can be detrimental to the wildflowers.

Step 3: Choose the Right Wildflower Mix

Now it’s time to choose the right wildflower mix for your garden. The plants you choose will depend on the conditions in your garden, so it’s important to choose a mix that is suited to your specific situation. You can buy wildflower seed mixes from garden centres or online, or you can even collect seeds from the wildflowers in your local area if you are feeling adventurous. Make sure you choose a mix that includes annuals and perennials, as this will ensure a long-lasting and varied bloom.

Step 4: Sow the Seeds

Once you have chosen your wildflower mix, you’re ready to sow the seeds. You can do this by scattering the seeds directly onto the soil or by mixing them with sand or vermiculite to help spread them evenly. After sowing, gently rake the area to bury the seeds slightly and water them well. Depending on the weather conditions, the seeds should start to germinate within a few weeks.

Step 5: Maintenance

Once your wildflowers have started to grow, it’s important to maintain them properly. This means cutting back any competing grasses or weeds regularly to allow the wildflowers to thrive. You can also encourage wildlife to visit your garden by leaving the seed heads of some flowers to provide food for birds in the autumn and winter months.

Creating a wildflower meadow patch in your garden is a great way to bring some natural beauty to your outdoor space and attract more wildlife to your garden. By following these steps, you can create a stunning wildflower meadow patch that will provide colour and interest throughout the growing season.

Happy gardening!

The Green Alternative: Why You Should Have a Hedge & Not a Fence

Gardening is a great way to relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature. However, with that comes the responsibility of maintaining and managing your garden landscape. Garden hedges and fences are the two most commonly used methods for boundary demarcation in the UK. But why settle for a plain old fence when you can have an exquisite garden hedge? In this blog, we’ll be discussing the benefits of investing in a garden hedge and why it is a better alternative to a fence.

Aesthetic Appeal: A garden hedge is a perfect way to add a natural touch to your garden landscape. Unlike a fence, a hedge can blend in with its surroundings and provide a natural habitat for small wildlife such as birds and hedgehogs. Besides, hedges come in an array of different types and sizes, allowing you to get creative and experiment with your garden design. You may choose from classics such as yew and boxwood or even add a new dimension with lavender and rosemary.

Privacy and Noise Reduction: Another great benefit of garden hedges is their ability to create a natural screen around your garden, providing much-needed privacy from prying eyes and noise reduction from busy roads. A hedge is also perfect if you live in a windy area, as it can provide wind protection, making it ideal for garden relaxation all year round.

Environmental Impact: Garden hedges have a positive environmental impact. They provide oxygen, absorb pollution, and prevent soil erosion, making it an excellent choice for your garden and mother nature. On the other hand, fences are manufactured using unsustainable materials, which can be hazardous to the environment. These materials end up contributing to landfill waste, which is a global problem that needs addressing.

Low Maintenance: One of the benefits of having a garden hedge is its low maintenance. Hedges don’t require painting every few years, unlike fences, which can be costly in the long run. Hedges only require an annual trim, and with regular care, they can last for years, making them more cost-effective in the long term.

Flexibility: A garden hedge is surprisingly flexible when it comes to altering its design. You can trim your hedge to any desired shape, whether it’s a traditional boxwood hedge or a creative spiral design. You can also choose to keep it at any height, from small hedges to towering hedges that create an imposing feature in your garden.

When you opt for a garden hedge as a green alternative to a fence and enjoy the numerous benefits it has to offer. Not only is it visually appealing, but it positively impacts the environment, provides natural noise reduction, and it’s low maintenance with great flexibility. You can transform your garden landscape into a haven for small wildlife while enjoying privacy, making it the perfect choice for the modern gardener.