In the garden
In the Garden with Jane
Greetings to all residents!
I'm not going to mention the weather… I think we all know what a terrible growing year it’s been. Unfortunately, I have a nasty feeling that this is just the beginning of how our weather is being impacted by climate change.
But let's look forward to next year, where we can enjoy the beautiful displays of daffodils and tulips. Next year will be better!
Small-Scale Gardening
I spent one of the few sunny weekends in September taking stock of what was growing in my small plot, which is about the size of a small balcony, under my living room window. I was surprised by how much I’d grown and the variety of both edible and ornamental plants thriving together. Then, I took a walk to see what my neighbours were up to. They had invested in raised planters and pop-up greenhouses, producing an abundance of fruits and vegetables.
I thought it would be useful to pass on some hints and tips I’ve found helpful, particularly for our older residents.
As we age, it does become more difficult to bend down and to plant, sow or weed. However, many of us still love gardening and want to continue enjoying the many benefits it offers. That’s why I recommend raised planters and small pop-up greenhouse, which can fit into any small space.
Raised Planters
These have become quite popular because they can be placed almost anywhere and easily moved around your garden or patio. There are many options in terms of size, shape, material and price.
I’d recommend choosing one that’s waist-height. There’s no need to bend down, weeding is a breeze, and harvesting your produce takes minimal effort. If you choose a planter with legs, you can also use the space underneath for outdoor storage.
You’ll need just a few tools: a hand fork, trowel, dibber (for making holes for plug plants) labels and string. To avoid carrying bags of compost, I’ve found that many seed merchants and growers offer delivery right to your door, either by phone or online. Alternatively, a trip to the garden centre works too.
Plants for Raised Planters
There are dwarf varieties of almost every vegetable - tomatoes, beans, peppers, chillies and courgettes. Many of these will spill over the edges of the planter, leaving the middle free for root vegetables like carrots. For flowers, Busy Lizzie and Geraniums are colourful options that don’t take up too much space.
I recommend investing in plug plants, which are easy to plant and ready to grow, saving you the space and time required for seed sowing.
Mini Pop-Up Greenhouses
These are a fantastic investment for small scale gardening. Tomatoes, chillies, aubergines and even melons can thrive and yield plenty. Again, there are various styles and prices to choose from. I think a small one is sufficient to start with – I have a four-tier greenhouse (46cm D x 50cm W x 130cm H) that has provided me with a good supply of aubergine and peppers.
During the winter months, you can store small garden tools inside, along with a tray of seeds ready to plant in Spring.
My Small Garden Plot
My small plot measures 1 metre wide by 4 metres long, and I’ve installed a downpipe fitted with a small water butt – both convenient and environmentally friendly. There’s room for two raised planters, a small pop-up greenhouse, and a variety of containers.
Small-scale gardening is easy, fun and can yield lots of edibles and colourful flowers. If you have a small space, why not give it a try?
Spring Bulb Reminder
Gardeners are always thinking ahead, so here’s a reminder: it's time to plant your Spring bulbs. Tulips need to be replanted every year, and while daffodils may bloom again, it’s not guaranteed, I always buy new ones. There are always new varieties, and the colours are fabulous.
I plant mine in containers in a mix of topsoil, compost and vermiculite between October and November, then sit back and wait for them to work their magic in March and April – my favourite time of year.
Until next time, happy gardening! In the meantime, I'm happy to answer any questions you have.
Bye for now,
Jane
