The Frome Selwood Horticulture Society enjoyed crowds at their recent Annual Plant Sale, with thanks going to the public and members alike for the ongoing support.
This support extends to the monthly meetings which promise excellent speakers, none more so than when Roger Hirons gave a whirlwind presentation on “New Plants for Free”. His lifelong passion has seen thousands of plants pass through his green fingers in his horticultural journey that had included years at Hilliers Nurseries. God, he said has given us 80,000 plants, – and here we were wanting to know how to make more!
Roger advised how to make the most of what we have. Herbaceous plants and ornamental grasses are divisible by root. Feed nitrogen to add colour and vigour. Think of their native conditions and replicate, for shade or sun. If the soil is heavy Think Bunding: namely where fissures open up in dry clay soil fill with gravel in August, cover with soil to create a mound, and plant into this compost mix. Roots will soon establish.
If plants rot off, Think Badging, namely build up a border and plant on an angle so plants look inwards. Both systems enable water to run off so avoiding roots rotting, to which Kniphofia and Stachys are particularly prone.
Conversely, to avoid roots drying out, particularly with conifers, never buy bear rooted. Plants much prefer the moisture retention from a root ball.
Finally, Roger advised to “think teamwork”, namely to buy bulk as a group. This goes for plants, compost and garden equipment including pH metres and thermometers. It all made such good sense!
To conclude the meeting the in-house Narcissis competition was judged by members; Derek Trick won first prize, Jean Norman second, with Val Humphries accepting the wooden spoon in good grace.
The Frome Selwood Horticulture Society meet on the second Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm at Critchill School. BA11 4LD. All welcome.
See Facebook or call Jane Norris on 0777 620 8531 for more information.
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