spring/summer 2018 planting instructions · planting instructions spring/summer 2018 ... they will...

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planting instructions

planting SPRING/SUMMER 2018

BULBS IN THE GREEN PERENNIAL & BIENNIAL PLANTS TENDER PERENNIALS ROSES CLIMBERS SHRUBS CONSERVATORY PLANTS KITCHEN GARDEN PLANTS

Salvia ‘Amistad’

SR SPRING growing guide 2018 - BOOK 1.indd 1 24/01/2018 12:03

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bulbs in the green

Bulbs in the greenThis means that the bulbs are sent out in active growth, with their leaves on. It is the very best and most successful way to plant these varieties.

Eranthis hyemalis (Aconites) Plant your aconites as soon as they arrive. These are ideal planted below deciduous trees, with partial shade in winter and spring, and deeper shade once the leaf cover closes. They thrive in moist but well-drained soil.

They dislike root disturbance and will gradually form a total late winter and spring carpet under trees and shrubs. They die down and disappear by summer. Leave them to spread undisturbed, best divided whilst still ‘in the green’.

Hyacinthoides non scripta (Bluebells) Bluebells fl ower from late April to May, fi lling our woods with their incredible fl owers and fragrance and providing nectar for moths, bees and butterfl ies.

Plant your bluebells as soon as they arrive. Choose an area of dappled shade, ideally under a deciduous tree. English bluebell bulbs thrive in moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter so add plenty of well-rotted manure, leaf mould or garden compost to the soil prior to planting.

Plant your bluebells at the level that they were planted before they were lifted, which you’ll see from where the leaves turn white. This will be at a depth of about 10cm, spacing them about 10cm apart.

For natural-looking drifts of bluebell fl owers, cast the bulbs across the planting area and plant them where they land. They will gradually self-sow and naturalise over time. You can lift and divide or just leave them to get on with it.

contents2 Bulbs in the green

Anemone blanda to Hyacinthoides non scripta

4 Perennial & biennial plants Acanthus to Wallfl ower

11 Tender perennials 13 Container plants14 Roses

15 Climbers Akebia to Wisteria

16 Shrubs Choisya to Viburnum

18 Conservatory plants Jasmine and Plumbago

18 Kitchen garden plantsAsparagus to Strawberries


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perennials & biennials

Perennial & biennial plants When you have chosen the best planting site for your plants, mark out the position with a plant label or empty pot – to make sure you space them correctly. Remove plants from their pot or wrapper and soak them in a sink or wheelbarrow full of water for twenty minutes if they are dry. Dig planting holes deep and wide enough so that the roots are covered. Firm the soil down around each plant and water well.

Acanthus Soil and site Sun or partial shade, deep fertile, well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 60cm apart. Once established it is very difficult to move plants so correct positioning is vital. Division 3-4 years. Special requirements Deadhead after flowering. a June-September. H.1-1.2m S.60cm

Achillea Soil and site Full sun in well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 60cm apart. Division Divide plants in early spring. Special requirements Cut back stems as the blooms fade to encourage repeat flowering. Flowering times and heights vary, see individual varieties on sarahraven.com

Aconitum napellus (Monkshood) Soil and site Sun or partial shade. It grows best in cool, fertile, well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 45cm apart. Special requirements Plant in deep hole with lots of organic matter and do not allow to dry out between waterings. All parts are toxic if eaten and may cause skin reaction so wear gloves when handling. Division Every 2-3 years. a June-September. H.1-1.5m S.30cm

Actaea Soil and site Partial shade in fertile moist, humus rich soil. Good in damp shade. Spacing Plant 50cm apart. Special requirements Poisonous if eaten. Do not allow to dry out. Division 3-4 years in late autumn. a August-November. H.90-150cm S.50cm

Agapanthus (African Lily) Soil and site Likes rich, well-drained, moisture retentive soil in a sunny site. You can also plant these in large tubs/containers incorporating plenty of horticultural grit. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements Feed with a high potassium fertiliser, such as comfrey pellets, monthly from spring until flowering. Overwinter with a dry mulch, like dahlias. If you are far north, we recommend growing these in pots so that you bring them out of the frosts for winter. Protect against slugs and snails. Division Every 3-4 years. Extra notes Excellent cut flowers and lovely seed pods too. a July-September. H.90cm S.30cm

Agastache Soil and site Full sun in well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 30 cm apart. Special requirements Pick or deadhead to prolong flowering Division 3-4 years a July-September. H.40-75cm S.30-45cm

Alchemilla mollis Soil and site Full sun or partial shade in moist, but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 30cm apart.Special requirements Cut back after flowering to promote new growth. Division When necessary, divide in spring. a June-September. H.30-45cm S.30-45cm

Allium Soil and site Full sun in well drained soil. Spacing 20cm apart. Special requirements Remember these are very perennial so plant them somewhere permanent. Removing the tatty foliage doesn’t appear to affect the bulbs. Add grit on heavy soils. a June to July. Heights vary see individual varieties on the website for details.

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Alstroemeria (Peruvian Lily) When you receive your plants Unless plant arrives in 9cm pot, pot them on into a 9cm or larger pot and keep protected from any late frosts. Only plant out when the frosts are over in your area. Soil and site Any well-drained soil in sun or part shade in a sheltered place. Add plenty of grit to the planting hole, plus plenty of organic matter at their roots. Spacing Plant 60cm apart. Special requirements Stake these plants so they don’t collapse in the wind or rain, and keep picking the flowers or deadheading. The best way is to pull them rather than cutting. This will leave plenty of room for the next generation and give you a more productive plant. Mulch well over winter. Division Every 2 years. Extra notes If you have a greenhouse, it is well worth growing alstroemeria inside too. Pot them up into generous 5 litre pots and keep them frost free. Once they start to shoot in spring, feed and water well and they’ll give you an almost continual flower harvest. Pull from the root and they will continue to flower for months. Arrange with a drop of bleach in their flower water, and with new water every 4-5 days, they’ll last 3 weeks in a vase. a May-October. H.40-100cm S.60cm

Althaea Soil and site Full sun in moist well-drained soils. Spacing Plant 50cm apart. Special requirements Good in dry soils, may need staking or grow through shrubs. Division 3-4 years a July-October. H.2m S.50cm

Anchusa azurea (Bugloss) Soil and site Any well-drained soil in full sun or part shade. Spacing Plant 45cm apart. Special requirements Deadhead to prolong flowering. Do not move once established. Division 3-4 years. Extra notes Flowers are good for cutting and are edible. a May-July. H.90cm S.45cm

Anemone hupehensis (Japanese Anemone) Soil and site Full sun or partial shade in moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 45cm apart. Special requirements May aggravate skin – wear gloves when handling. Deadhead to prolong flowering and discourage self-seeding, cut back in spring. Division Every 3-4 years. a July-September. H.75cm S.45cm

Angelica archangelica BIENNIAL Soil and site Moist well-drained soil in full sun or part shade. Works well at the back of a herbaceous border. Spacing Plant 1m apart. Special requirements Mulch deeply in dry conditions. Don’t allow to dry out. Deadhead after flowering to prevent it from self-seeding, or leave to self-sow. May need staking. a June-September. H.1.5-2m S.1m

Angelica gigas (Purple Angelica) BIENNIAL Soil and site Moist but well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter added. Thrives in sun or partial shade. Spacing Plant 60cm apart. Special requirements This is a dampland plant, so give plenty of water in a drought. Provide support to protect from wind and rain. Division It is a short-lived perennial, but will self-sow so you will have plants every year. Extra notes Good for the back of a border. a May-August, but excellent seed pods after that. H.1.5m S.60cm

Aquilegia (Granny’s Bonnet, Columbine) Soil and site Plant in a moist, but well-drained soil in full sun or shade. Ideal for east or north-facing bed. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements These may be short-lived, but should self sow. Division Don’t normally require it. a May-July. H.60cm S.45cm

Asplenium Soil and site Partial to full shade in humus rich, moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 40cm apart. Special requirements Remove any dead or damaged fronds to the base as necessary. Ensure plant is kept moist during first summer and mulch well. H.60cm S.40cm

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Aster Soil and site Well-drained soil in sunny position. Spacing Plant 40cm apart. Special requirements Allow good spacing between plants to aid air circulation and help prevent mildew. Division Every 2-3 years. a July-October. H.50-70cm S.40cm

Astrantia Soil and site Full sun, partial shade in humus rich, moist, fertile soil. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements Deadhead after flowering to promote new blooms and to prevent self-seeding. Division 3-4 year. a June-August. H.50-80cm S.30cm

Baptisia Soil and site Full sun in neutral to acidic well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 50cm apart. Special requirements Deadhead to prolong flowering, but leave seed heads at end of summer for winter interest. Division 3-4 years in the spring. a June. H.90cm S.50cm

Blechnum spicant Soil and site Partial to full shade in moist but well-drained acidic soil. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements Remove dead or damaged fronds as necessary. Division When necessary divide in spring. a Evergreen H.10-50cm S.30cm

Brunnera Soil and site Partial to full shade in well-drained or moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements Deadhead after flowering and remove any tatty leaves in early spring. Division 3-4 years. a March-May. H.25-35cm S.30cm

Bupleurum Soil and site Full sun in well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 45cm apart. Special requirements Deadhead if you want to avoid self-seeding. May not flower in the first year. Division If necessary divide in autumn. a June-August. H.90cm S.45cm

Cephalaria Soil and site Full sun, partial shade in moist, but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 1m apart. Special requirements Cut back after flowering. Division 3-4 years a June-August. H.2.5m S.1m

Coreopsis Soil and site Full sun in moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 45cm apart. Special requirements Deadhead to prolong flowering. a June-October. H.60cm S.60cm

Crambe cordifolia (Greater Sea Kale) Soil and site Good for coastal location. Full Sun or part shade in fertile, well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 1m apart. Special requirements Deep rooted, it is very drought tolerant, but plants dislike being moved so plant out in final position. Cut back the plant to ground level in autumn and apply generous 5-7cm mulch of well-rotted manure or garden compost around the plant in spring. Division Every 3 years. a June-July. H.80-130cm S.130cm

Cyclamen Soil and site Shade or partial shade in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Spacing 15cm. Special requirements Do not plant too deep, the tuber should be 1.5cm to 2.5cm below the surface of the soil. a December-March. H. 13cm S.15cm

Cynara Soil and site Moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Spacing Plant 1.5m apart. Special requirements May need staking until established. a June-September. H.1.8m S.1.5m

Delphinium Soil and site Full sun or dappled shade, suitable for most soil types. Spacing Plant 60cm apart. Special requirements Allow good spacing between plants to help prevent mildew. Best in groups of 3 or more. Provide support to protect from wind and rain. Cut back after first flowering for a second flush. Division Every 2-3 years. a June-July and August-September. H.1.5-1.7m S.75cm



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Dianthus ‘Mrs Sinkins’ and ‘Green Trick’ Soil and site Well-drained soil in sunny position, best on a neutral to alkaline soil. Spacing Plant 40cm apart. Special requirements Do not plant too close to other plants where air movement might be restricted. Feed regularly with rose or tomato fertiliser, and keep as moist as possible, although they do tolerate dry weather. Cut right back when the main stem has finished. Division Not applicable. a June-July. H.30-50cm S.40cm

Dierama pulcherrimum (Angel’s Fishing Rod) Soil and site Sheltered position with full sun in a humus-rich but well-drained soil. Heavier clay soils and lighter sandy soils should be improved by incorporating well-rotted organic matter. Moist in summer/dry in winter. Spacing Plant 50cm apart, they don’t like to be crowded. Special requirements Water well in dry summers and apply a general purpose fertiliser in spring. Need very little pruning as they are semi-evergreen, but old, unsightly foliage can be cut away in the spring if necessary. When planted foliage tends to die back and plant goes dormant. Many believe the plant is dead, but in fact it will reshoot with fresh foliage. Division They resent disturbance so leave until really congested before dividing in spring. Do not allow the corms to dry out. They may take 1-2 years to establish and flower freely again. a July-August. H.1-1.5m S.50cm

Digitalis (Foxgloves) BIENNIAL Soil and site Best in acid, humus-rich moist but well-drained soil in semi shaded area (but will grow in most conditions – height may be affected). Spacing Plant 30-40cm apart. Special requirements Allow good spacing between plants to aid air circulation and help prevent mildew. Division Not applicable – sow new every year. a May-July. H.1-1.2m S.60cm

Dryopteris Soil and site Partial to full shade in moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements Remove dead or damaged fronds as necessary. Division When necessary divide in spring. a Evergreen H.1m S.50cm

Echinacea Soil and site Full sun in well-drained or moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements Dislike disturbance so try to avoid moving plants and avoid overcrowding. Deadhead to prolong flowering. May benefit from dry mulch during the winter. a June-September. H.60-90cm S.50cm

Echinops Soil and site Sun or partial shade in any well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 45cm apart. Division In early spring. Special requirements Cut down to the ground after flowering to prevent self-seeding. a August-September. H.50-100cm S.50-100cm

Epilobium Soil and site Full sun, partial shade in moist, but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 50cm apart. Special requirements May be invasive so choose position carefully. Deadhead to prolong flowering and prevent self-seeding. Division 3-4 years. a July-September. H.1-1.5m S.50cm

Erigeron karvinskianus (Mexican Fleabane) Soil and site Can be grown in most well-drained soils (or paths and walls) in full sun or part shade. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements Very tolerant. Division Every 2-3 years. a April-November. H.30cm S.30cm

Eryngium Soil and site Full sun in well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 45cm apart. Special requirements Cut back in late summer to remove tatty foliage. Division Not necessary a June. H.60-80cm S.45cm

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Erysimum (Wallflower) PERENNIAL Soil and site Rich, well-drained soil in sunny position. Spacing Plant 40cm apart. Special requirements Mulch well in summer to prevent water loss. Remove spent flowers regularly, don’t prune before winter. Division Propagate from cuttings. a April-July. H.30-60cm S.40-50cm

Euphorbia (Milkweed, Spurge) Soil and site Well-drained soil in full sun or shade. Likes a moist soil and will take light shade. Spacing Plant 40-60cm apart. Special requirements For taller varieties provide support to protect from wind and rain. Caution: Wear gloves when you plant this, the milky sap can irritate your skin. Division Every 2-3 years. a February-July (depends on variety). H.40-150cm S.40-60cm (depends on variety)

Fritillaria Soil and site Moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements Water regularly and thoroughly throughout the growing season, but not when dormant. Once the leaves die back, cut the stems back to just above the ground level. a April to May. Heights vary see individual varieties on sarahraven.com for details.

Gaura Soil and site Dry, well-drained in sun or part shade Spacing Plant 45cm apart. Special requirements Can be grown in pots or in the border. Division Large clumps can be divided in spring. Heights and flowering times vary, please see individual varieties on our website for details.

Geranium Soil and site Moist, but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Spacing Plant 40-60cm apart (or 1m apart for ‘Ann Folkard’). Special requirements Cut to the ground after they finish flowering, for hopefully a second flush of flowers. Division Every 2-3 years. a May-August. H.30-60cm S.40-60cm (or 1m for ‘Ann Folkard’)

Geum Soil and site Full sun in well-drained, moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 40cm apart. Special requirements Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering. Division 3-4 years. a May-September. H.20-50cm S.40-60cm

Gillenia Soil and site Partial shade in soil that is acid to neutral, moist but well-drained. Spacing Plant 40cm apart. Special requirements May need staking, good for autumn colour. Division 3-4 years or when clumps become congested. a May-August. H.80-100cm S.60cm

Gladiolus Soil and site Full sun in well-drained position. Spacing Plant 25cm apart. Special requirements Protect the crown with a generous mulch in Autumn. If grown in a container, move into greenhouse and keep dry over winter. Division 3-4 years. a July -August. H.80cm S.25cm

Hakonechloa macra Soil and site Moist but well-drained fertile soil. Shade or part shade. Spacing Plant 45cm apart. Special requirements Keep out of direct sunlight, clumps can take a few years to establish. Cut back to ground-level in spring. Division Divide every three years to reduce congestion. a August to October. H.30cm S.45cm

Helenium (Helen’s flower, Sneezeweed) Soil and site Fertile, moist, well-drained soil in sunny position. Spacing Plant 45cm apart. Special requirements Provide support to protect from wind and rain. Division Every 2-3 years in autumn or spring. a July-September. H.75-125cm S.45cm

Helianthus Soil and site Full sun, in well-drained, moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 50cm apart. Special requirements May need staking. Cut back after flowering. Division 3-4 years in spring or autumn. a June-October. H.1-2m S.35cm



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Helleborus orientalis Soil and site Moist but well-drained soil in dappled shade. Spacing Plant 40-50cm apart. Special requirements Add organic matter when planting. Watch out for snails and aphids. Remove all leaves to the ground before flowering to prevent disease. Division Every 3-4 years. a late January-April. H.40cm S.35cm

Hesperis (Dame’s Rocket) BIENNIAL Soil and site Well-drained, light soil in full sun or partial shade. Spacing Plant 40-60cm apart. Special requirements Deadhead to prolong flowering, but leave some seed heads to self seed and naturalise. Division Not required (biennial). a May-early August. H.90cm S.40-60cm

Heuchera Soil and site Full sun or part shade in moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 30cm apart/‘Blondie’ plant 20cm apart. Special requirements Apply a generous mulch of well-rotted organic matter around the crown of the plant in spring. Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering. Division Divide plants every 2-3 years. a June-July. Heights vary, see individual varieties on sarahraven.com for details.

Hollyhocks (Alcea) BIENNIAL Soil and site Well-drained soil in sunny position. Spacing Plant 50cm apart. Special requirements Hollyhocks do have a tendency to rust; Copper Mixture will keep this at bay. Provide support to protect from wind and rain. Division Every 2-3 years. a June-August. H.2m S.50cm

Hosta Soil and site Partial shade in moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 45cm apart. Special requirements Use slug and snail barrier from early spring. Remove spent flower heads after flowering. Division As necessary. a June-August. H.50-90cm S.45cm

Kirengeshoma Soil and site Shade or partial shade in moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 50cm apart. Special requirements Grow in lime-free soil. Deadhead after flowering and mulch in autumn. a June-August. H.50-100cm S.50cm

Knautia Soil and site Full sun in well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements Cut back after flowering. Division 3-4 years. a July-September. H.75cm S.30cm

Lamium Soil and site Partial to full shade in well-drained, moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 30-40cm apart. Special requirements Cutback after flowering to encourage new growth. Division 3-4 years. a April-July. H.15-60cm S.30-45cm

Liriope Soil and site Partial to full shade in moist but well-drained (preferably acid) soil. Spacing Plant 40cm apart. Special requirements Shelter from cold winds in colder areas. Cut down to ground level in spring to promote fresh growth. Division 4-5years. a August-November. H.40cm S.40cm

Lithodora Soil and site Full sun in well-drained acidic soil. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements Dislikes winter wet so may need protection in some areas. Prune after first flush of flowers and again lightly in late summer by trimming the new tip shoots back by about half, to promote bushy growth. Division 3-4 years a March-September. H.10-15cm S.30cm

Lobelia Soil and site Full sun or part shade, well drained soil. Spacing Plant 40cm apart. Special requirements Deadhead to prolong flowering. Water adequately during dry and hot periods. Division Divide large clumps in spring. a July-September. H.70cm S.45cm

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Lupin Soil and site Full sun, part shade in well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements Deadhead to prolong flowering. Watch out for aphids and protect from slugs and snails. Division Every 3 years. a June-July. H.80-100cm S.30cm

Lychnis Soil and site Requires poor to fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. Spacing Plant 50cm apart. Special requirements If you do not want plants to self-seed, deadhead as the flowers fade. This should also prolong blooming. Division Lift and divide in spring. a July-August. H.90cm S.45cm

Lysimachia atropurpurea ‘Beaujolais’ Soil and site Full sun, partial shade in moist, but well-drained soil. Spreads so allow space when planning position. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements May need support. Division Spring every 3-4 years. a July-September. H.60-90cm S.35cm

Matteuccia Soil and Site Partial to full shade in moist, acidic soil. Spacing Plant 1.5m apart. Special requirements Remove dead fronds when necessary. Division Spreads slowly, when necessary divide in spring. a Evergreen H.1-1.5m S.1.5-2.5m

Matthiola incana (Stocks) BIENNIAL Soil and site Full sun and sheltered, moist but well-drained, ideally lime-rich soil. Spacing Plant 40cm apart. Special requirements Cut back after flowering. Susceptible to aphids and flea beetles. a June-September. H.45cm S.30cm

Nepeta (Catmint) Soil and site Full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 40cm apart. Special requirements Cut back lightly after flowering for second flush. Cut back hard in autumn for vigorous new growth in spring. Division Every 2-3 years. a June-September. H.45-100cm S.30-80cm

Papaver orientale (Oriental poppy) Soil and site Moist, well-drained soil in full sun or part shade. Spacing Plant 40cm apart. Special requirements Provide support to protect from wind and rain. Cut to ground after flowering and the leaves will quickly again to form a backdrop for other plants in the bed. Division Every 2-3 years. a June-July. H.75cm S.40-75cm

Penstemon Soil and site Full sun, partial shade in fertile, well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 45cm apart. Special requirements Deadhead to prolong flowering. Leave old-growth on over winter for protection and prune in late spring when new shoots appear. Division Every 3-4 years in spring. a July-October. H.50-70cm S.40cm

Peony Soil and site Full sun, partial shade in well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 75cm apart. Special requirements Plant crowns just below the surface with resting buds no more than 3cm below the soil. In early spring apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser around the base of the plant and mulch with well-rotted compost, avoid burying crown. Deadhead after flowering. Will not flower in first year. Division Divide when necessary in the autumn, remove sections of the crown with at least three dormant growth buds each and roots attached. a June-July. H.80-100cm S.75cm

Perovskia ‘Blue Spire’ Soil and site Well-drained soil in sunny position. Spacing Plant 75cm apart. Special requirements Cut back in March and mulch well. Division Every 2-3 years. a July-October. H.75cm S.75cm



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Persicaria Soil and site Full sun in well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 50cm apart. Special requirements Cut back after flowering to promote new growth. Division 2-3 years in spring. a July-October. H.60-90cm S.50cm

Phlox Soil and site Moist but well-drained soil in full sun or light shade. Spacing Plant 75cm apart. Special requirements Provide support to protect from wind and rain. Don’t let them dry out and ensure good air circulation. Division Every 2-3 years and propagate from basal cuttings. a July-October. H.80-90cm S.40-75cm

Polygonatum Soil and site Full or partial shade in moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 40cm apart. Special requirements Cut back in late autumn. Division When necessary divide in spring. a May-June. H.1m S.40cm

Primulas and Polyanthus Soil and site Grow these in pots or plant them in the garden in light shade and good drainage. They like to be protected from rain in the winter and full sun in the summer. Spacing Plant 20cm apart. Special requirements Re-pot after flowering into new, well-drained, gritty compost – 4 parts loam-based John Innes no 2, 2 parts leaf mould and 1 part grit. Top the pots off with grit. Division Every 2-3 years. a February-May. H.10-30cm S.25cm

Pulmonaria (Common Lungwort) Soil and site Moist soil in partial shade. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements They do not like to dry out. The first sign that they are unhappy is mildewed leaves, so keep them watered. Deadhead after flowering and remove old leaves. Will self-seed. Division Every 2-3 years. a April-June. H.30cm S.30cm

Rudbeckia Soil and site Full sun in moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements Deadhead to prolong flowering. Division 3-4 years. a August-October. H.90cm S.30cm

Salvia Soil and site Full sun or partial shade in a well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements Deadhead to prolong flowering and cut back hard after first flowering. Division 3-4 years in spring. a June-October. H.1-1.2m S.60cm

Scabious Soil and site Well-drained soil in sunny position. Spacing Plant 40-50cm apart. Special requirements Pick or deadhead to prolong flowering. Division Every 2-3 years. a June-October. H.50cm S.40-50cm

Selinum Soil and site Partial shade in moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 60cm apart. Special requirements Deadhead and cut back in the autumn. Apply mulch of well-rotted manure in spring. Protect from slugs and snails. Division 3-4 years in spring. a July-September. H.90cm S.60cm

Tellima Soil and site Partial shade in fertile, moist but well-drained soil but can cope with dry soils. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements Cut back flower stems once faded or leave to encourage self-seeding. Division 3-4 years in spring. a May-July. H.60-80cm S.30cm

Thalictrum Soil and site Full sun, partial shade in moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 50cm apart. Special requirements May need supporting. Cut down to ground in the autumn. Division If you do need to divide a clump, this is best done early spring or early autumn. a June-July. H.1.5-2m S.50cm

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tender perennials

Tiarella Soil and site Sheltered partial to full shade in moist but well-drained soil, can cope with poorly drained soil. Spacing Plant 20cm apart. Special requirements Cut back flowering stems once faded. If in pot treat to prevent vine weevil. Division 3-4 years. a May-July. H.30cm S.20cm

Verbascum Soil and site Prefers poor, alkaline, well-drained soil in sunny position. Spacing Plant 40cm apart. Special requirements In fertile soil the plants grow very tall and may need staking. Division Most will self-sow. a May-July. H.60-180cm S.40cm

Verbena bonariensis Soil and site Well-drained soil in sunny position. Spacing Plant 40cm apart. Special requirements Will self sow. Division Short-lived perennial, so not applicable. a July-November. H.1.5-1.8m S.45cm

Veronica gentianoides Soil and site Well-drained soil in sunny position. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements Keep picking or deadheading for longer flowering. Division Every 2-3 years. a June-September. H.75cm S.30cm

Veronicastrum Soil and site Moist, well-drained soil, especially loamy clay in full sun or part shade. Spacing Plant 45cm apart. Special requirements Provide support to protect from wind and rain. Division Every 2-3 years. a June-August. H.1-1.5m S.50-100cm

Wallflower (Cheiranthus) BIENNIAL Soil and site Rich, moist but well-drained soil in sunny position. Spacing Plant 30cm apart. Special requirements Mulch well in autumn – pinch out young plants. Deadhead to prolong flowering. a March-May. H.30cm S.20cm

Tender Perennials Acidanthera Soil and site Plant in full sun in a sheltered spot Spacing Plant 10cm apart. Special requirements If you’re growing in containers, stop watering at the end of summer and bring the pots indoors for the winter. Put them out again next spring after danger of night frosts has passed. Division Lift and remove spent corms during the winter. a August to October. H.100cm S.10cm

Calceolaria Soil and site Full sun or part shade in a moist well-drained site Spacing Plant 45cm apart. Special requirements Reliably hardy if kept away from winter wet, we keep them in cold tunnels in winter. Keep taking off the dead flowers and they flower from lower branches for a long period. Cut back in winter. a May to August. H. 60cm

Cosmos astrosanguineas Soil and site Moist well-drained soil in full sun. Spacing Plant 45-50cm apart. Special requirements Deadhead to encourage flowering and protect from the frosts with a good mulch, or horticultural fleece. a June-October. H.90cm S.50cm

Chrysanthemums Our chrysanthemums are sent out in 9cm pots, to pot on or plant out. Soil and site Outdoor varieties are happiest grown in full sun and shelter, in well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter added. Indoor varieties can be grown in the garden in 2 litre pots, sunk in the ground and lifted to bring into the greenhouse, conservatory or sunny porch when the weather gets cold.



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tender perennials

Indoor chrysanthemums – C. ‘Anastasia Green’, C. ‘Blenda Purple’, C.‘Froggy’, C.‘Porto Purple’, C. ‘Sheer Purple’ These chrysanthemum varieties should ideally be grown indoors – a greenhouse or protected growing space of some kind – and will then flower from the middle to the end of November until Christmas. Spacing If you have soil beds in your greenhouse, the 9cm pots can be planted direct at spacing of 30-40cm and watered in well. Or grow them in large pots, about 35-40cm in diameter. Water in well. Insert a stake at their side which you will need to tie them into as they grow. Pots can be placed outside in a sunny, sheltered spot, after the frosts have finished. Special requirements Stop the plants (pinch the top off) 10-14 days after planting, down to 3 or 4 leaves up from the base of the plant, to encourage side branches, which will form the flowering stems. See sarahraven.com for articles and videos

Water freely during the summer and give them a balanced feed every two weeks from midsummer till the flower buds start to appear. Bring inside again in September before the autumn gales arrive, and pick the flowers from there. Cut the plants back when they finish flowering and store frost free.

Outdoor chrysanthemums – C. ‘Blenda Purple’, C. ‘Bruno Bronze’, C. ‘Littleton Red’, C. ‘Orange Allouise’, C. ‘Payton Blaze Red’, C. ‘Smokey Purple’ When you receive your chrysanthemums they will be ready to plant straight outside. Spacing Plant them outside in their flowering positions, 30cm apart. They love a sunny, sheltered site with protection from strong winds, in a well-drained but fertile soil, with some organic matter dug in. After planting, water generously for 1-2 weeks so the plants get well established. Stake every plant securely with their own stake. Special requirements Stop the plants (pinch the top off) 10-14 days after planting, down to three or four leaves up from the base of the plant, to encourage side branches, which will form the flowering stems. They will also benefit from a general fertilizer feed once a month. You can grow any of these varieties under cover too. With protection from wind and rain, you will then get a longer harvest of flowers than you do outside.

Dahlia Soil and site Moist, well-drained soil in full sun Spacing Plant 70cm apart. Special requirements Support with a stout stick, tie in every couple of weeks. In the south you can mulch deeply and overwinter them in the ground. See the advice pages on our website for a full guide to growing dahlias. a July to November. Heights vary see individual varieties for details on sarahraven.com

Geranium maderense Soil and site Well-drained soil in full sun or part-shade Spacing Plant 50-80cm apart. Special requirements Cover with fleece during winter to protect from frost or bring inside and place in a cool greenhouse. Division Collect seed after flowering to maintain stock. a May-July. H.1m

Jasmine Soil and site Hardy enough to be grown outside on a sheltered wall as well as indoors. Grow in sun or part shade but best scent in full sun in moist, well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 3m apart. Special requirements Water only when the top half inch of the potting mix is dry to the touch; Jasmine won’t tolerate soggy potting mix. After flowering, give your plant at least 6 hours of direct sun. Feed every 2 weeks with liquid fertilizer diluted by half. Don’t fertilize after the flowers fade, while the plant is resting. a June-August, flowers will open and last longer with cooler home temperatures. H.3-5m S.1m

Pelargonium Soil and site Our pelargoniums can be planted straight out into your gardens or conservatories, or pot them up into larger pots. If it arrives in a fibre pot, do not remove, plant pot

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container plants

straight into the ground. In containers Grow in loam-less potting compost or in John Innes No 2 in full light, but with shade from hot sun, and good ventilation. Water sparingly during the growing season and feed with a high potash feed such as Tomorite every fortnight. Water even more sparingly during the winter. If kept at 7-10°c plants may flower over winter. Otherwise cut them back by two thirds and keep them almost dry. Outdoors Plant in fertile moist soil after all risk of frost has passed. Most cultivars prefer full sun but regal pelargoniums, eg ‘Lord Bute’, prefer part shade. Spacing Plant 70cm apart. Lift bedding plants before the frost, cutting top growth by one third. Pot on in late winter as growth resumes. Special requirements Deadhead all pelargoniums regularly. Please be aware that contact with the foliage may occasionally aggravate skin allergies. a June-November. H.25-45cm S.20cm.

Container Plants Use a good quality peat-free compost such as Sylvagrow (see website) to fill your chosen container. Remove plants from their pot and soak them for twenty minutes if they are dry. Dig planting holes deep and wide enough so that the roots are covered. Firm the soil down around each plant, and water well. Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering and feed containers throughout the growing season with a balanced liquid feed such as Vitax Organic Liquid Seaweed (see sarahraven.com)

Anagallis A fantastic deep blue, which will flower all summer long. Tender perennial grown as a hardy annual. a June-October. H.15cm

Arctotis Easy, reliable plants that flower with minimal TLC. Tender perennial grown as a hardy annual. a July-October. H.40cm

Argyranthemum Flowers continually with minimal care. Tender perennial, sometimes grown as a half-hardy annual. a May-November. H.30-50cm

Artemisia Likes full sun in well-drained soil, suitable for rock gardens. Trim in autumn to keep in shape. Divide every 3 years. Perennial. a foliage all year and small flower in late summer. H.30cm

Buddleia ‘Dreaming Purple’ Flowers long and hard through the summer and autumn. As soon as the sun comes out, it will be covered in butterflies and bees. Prune annually to 15cm. Sub-shrub. a June-September. Trailing 60cm

Calibrachoa The ideal splash of strong colour. You need the odd zap of these – long-flowering and easy to grow. Half-hardy annual. a May-October. Trailing 20-30cm

Calocephalus Delicate silver feathers, ideal for pots combined with almost any flowers, rich or pale. Tender perennial. a Evergreen. H.30cm

Diascia True denim-blue diascia, hot off the breeding bench. Beautiful, unusual and long-flowering. Half-Hardy Annual. a June-October. H.20cm

Helichrysum This dwarf curry plant is a tender perennial herb which also makes a useful foliage plant. Very drought resistant. Tender perennial herb. a Evergreen. H.30cm



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roses

Heliotrope Particularly in the evening, it will fill its spot with perfume, so plant it by your doors and windows so the scent can drift in through the evening. Tender perennial grown as a perennial. a June-October. H.30cm

Hibiscus ‘Mahogany Splendour’ is a great new discovery, brilliant for foliage in containers. Perennial grown as a Hardy annual. H.1.5m

Isotoma Perfect container plants with starry flowers and soft scents, particularly this one, with its flowering stretch of up to six months. Half-hardy annual a May-October. H.20cm

Nemesia A long-flowering plant which is perfect planted on its own in a pot, or mixed with other intense, saturated colours. Tender perennial (grown as a half-hardy annual). a April-October. H.30cm

Osteospermum Masses of flat, daisy type flowers all summer long if deadheaded. Excellent for containers or ground cover. Likes well-drained soil in full sun. Tender perennial grown as a hardy annual. a July-October. H.30cm

Petunia Tumbling out of any pot, large or small, these velvety-textured flowers are irresistible. They flower for months and months with minimal care. Best grown in pot or container. Half-hardy annual. a June-September. H.60cm

Plectranthus Moist but well-drained soil in full sun, part shade or shade. Sprinkle mycorrhizal fungi (Rootgrow) into the base of the planting hole and water well after planting. Bring indoors through winter, they make excellent houseplants. a September. H.50cm S.60cm

Senecio A good silver filler, perfect against strong or soft colours. Tender perennial. a Evergreen. H.25cm

Vinca Low-maintenance, everlasting shade-lovers, good in a pot. Hardy perennial. a May-September. H.10-50cm

Viola Beautiful velvet flowers that never stop coming. They’re edible, so I grow them with lettuce too. a April-October. H.15cm

RosesChoose a site that gets at least 50% of the day in the sun. If you are replacing old roses with new roses, remove as much of the old soil as possible and replace with soil that hasn’t grown roses before (the old soil will grow anything else apart from roses). Dig a hole big enough to accommodate the roots and place a handful of bone meal at the bottom, mixing in with the soil. Place the rose in the ground and backfill with topsoil that has been enriched with organic matter (garden compost, manure or a proprietary rose and shrub compost). Make sure the graft union (stumpy bit) is at, or slightly below, soil level. Water well. Feed and mulch in spring.

As a general rule, use climbers on walls, fences, pillars and pergolas, and ramblers will grow into hedges, trees, over large arches and may also be used on pillars and pergolas.

See sarahraven.com for sowing kit


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climbers

Climbers – ‘Danse de Feu’, ‘Etoile de Hollande’, ‘Guinee’, ‘Highgrove’, Madame Alfred Carriere’ and ‘Veilchenblau’ Soil and site Full sun and sheltered site, moist well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 3m apart. Special requirements To avoid an unsightly tall plant with a few flowers at the top and nothing below, train to grow horizontally (fan out). Stretch wires out horizontally, at 60cm height intervals, securely along the wall or fence, and bend the rose over, attaching it to the wire with string or raffia. After a time, the stems trained horizontally will throw up vertical stems; use the strongest verticals arising from the base and/or the middle of the plant to train along higher wires to create another tier if required. Prune the remaining vertical stems to one centimetre from the horizontal stem during September-October. a June-September. H.2.5-4m S.3m

Ramblers – ‘Paul’s Himalayan Musk’ and ‘Rambling Rector’ Soil and site Full sun or partial shade in moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 2m apart. Special requirements Prune at the end of summer. Extra notes Vigorous ramblers suited to training through trees. ‘Paul’s Himalayan Musk’ Flowers May-June. H.9m S.9m / ‘Rambling Rector’ a July-September. H.6m S.6m

Shrubs – ‘Blanche Double de Coubert’, ‘Burgundy Ice’, ‘Cinco de Mayo’, ‘Felicia’, ‘For Your Eyes Only’, ‘Fred Loads’, ‘Queen of Denmark’, ‘Hot Chocolate’, ‘Inspiration’, ‘Little White Pet’, ‘Macmillan Nurse’, ‘Mutabilis’, ‘Penelope’, ‘Reines des Violettes’, ‘Rhapsody in Blue’, Rosa glauca, ‘Rose de Rescht’ and ‘Tuscany Superb’ Soil and site Full sun or partial shade, moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 1m apart. Special requirements Prune February-March. Deadhead to encourage bud production. a June-September H.60-200cm / ‘Little White Pet’ a July-October / ‘Reines des Violettes’ a June-November / Rosa glauca a June-July. See individual varieties on our website for spread.

ClimbersAkebia Soil and site Sun or partial shade in any moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 3m apart. Special requirements Dislikes being moved so choose site well. Prune after flowering to keep them to the space available, removing as much from the longer shoots as necessary. a March-May. H.10m S.3.5-4m

Clematis Soil and site Well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade (full sun for the borderline tender armandii), with lots of organic matter added to the planting position. Try to shade the roots of clematis if possible. If planted on a wall, lean a tile over the base and roots; if planting in a border, shade the roots with other plants. The smaller growing clematis, eg alpines and modern hybrids, do well in large containers with at least 45cm depth and width. Special requirements Water well to settle in. All clematis will need support on a wall or in the border over which it can climb. See individual varieties on our website for flowering times, heights and spreads. Pruning Encourages strong growth and prolific flowering. If you leave them to their own devices they can become a tangled mess with bare stems at the base with flowers way up higher than you’d like them. Pruning Group 1 C. armandii, macropetala and montana varieties. No need to prune them, tidy after flowering. Pruning Group 2 Prune in February and after first flowers in early summer. Pruning Group 3 C. ‘Prince Charles’, ‘Bill Mackenzie’, ‘Royal Velours’, ‘Madame Julia Correvon’ and C. durandii. Prune in February, cut hard back to 75cm. Height and spacing varies, see our website for details of individual varieties.



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annual climbers

Hydrangea petiolaris (See p.17 Hydrangea except for Special requirements) Special requirements Prune immediately after flowering only to keep to its framework, otherwise only remove dead stems. Keep pruning to a minimum.

Lathyrus latifolius Soil and site Thrives in full sun and a rich soil. Trained over an archway, against trellis, fence or sunny wall. Spacing Plant 45cm apart. Special requirements Perennial so will die back each winter. a July-October. H.2m S.2m.

Lonicera (Honeysuckle) Soil and site Rich, well-drained soil with roots in shade, but climbing up into sun. You can plant them on a north face of a wall. Add plenty of organic matter to planting hole. Special requirements Mulch every autumn or winter and keep the plant well watered in its first year. Will need support on a wall or in the border over which it can climb. a May-August. Height and spacing varies, see our website for details of individual varieties.

Trachelospermum Soil and site Full sun and partial shade in well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 4m apart. Special requirements Needs support, best against a sunny, sheltered wall. Cut back after flowering to keep in its allocated space. a June-August. H.4-8m S.4m

Wisteria Soil and site Full sun or light dappled shade in fertile, moist well-drained soil. When planting, select a position that has the roots in a shaded spot but the top growth in the sun against a wall or fence. Dig a large hole and fork the base, incorporating large amounts of organic matter. Top dress and feed the plant’s base in the spring. Special requirements Wisterias flower from flowering spurs that form on the stems. To encourage the development of the spurs, train your wisteria so that the side shoots and branches are horizontal, eg onto a wire secured to a wall or fence. Naturally as they grow wisteria stems turn clockwise in a circling motion resulting in a coiling to secure its new position. This fact is worth remembering when training your plant to a new wire as twisting the stems in a anti clockwise direction will cause the plant to waste a great deal of energy and time untwisting and retwisting itself. Pruning Wisteria needs pruning twice a year to keep it in its allocated space and to encourage flowers. Summer pruning (July or August): cut back the whippy green shoots of the current year’s growth to five or six leaves after flowering. Winter pruning (January or February): cut back the same growths to two or three buds to ensure the flowers will not be obscured by leaves. a May-June. H.9m S.5m

Annual Climbers Rhodochiton a Soil and site Fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 50cm apart. Special requirements Water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser once a month. a July-first frosts. H.1.5-2.5m S.50cm

Thunbergia Soil and site Full sun, in moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 60cm apart. Special requirements Water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser once a month. a June-first frosts. H.1.5-1.8m S.40cm

See sarahraven.com for seeds to sow now


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shrubs

ShrubsChoisya Soil and site Sheltered position in full sun, partial shade in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 1.5m apart. Special requirements Prune after flowering to encourage re-bloom. a April-May and September. H.1-1.5m S.1.5m

Cotinus Soil and site Full sun, partial shade in well-drained, moist but well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 1.5m apart. Special requirements Lightly prune in late winter/early spring or for larger foliage hard prune in early spring. a July-August. H.1.8m S.1.8m

Daphne Soil and site Sheltered position in full sun, partial shade in a well-drained soil. Dislikes root disturbance so pick a site well. Spacing Plant 1m apart. Special requirements Prune lightly after flowering, remove any dead, damaged or diseased stems. a January-April. H.1.5m S.1.5m

Fuschia Soil and site ‘Hawkshead’ Moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade; ‘Lady Boothby’ Moist but well-drained soil in part shade Spacing ‘Hawkshead’ 1m; ‘Lady Boothby’ 90cm Division May be propagated via cuttings from spring to autumn. Special requirements Prune in spring as new growth appears. Mulch generously over winter. a Heights and flowering times vary, please see sarahraven.com for details of individual varieties.

Gardenia Soil and site Plant in neutral to acidic fertile soil in a sheltered location away from cold winds and direct sunlight. Water regularly until gardenia plants are fully established. Try to use only rainwater to maintain the soils acidity. Spacing Plant 60cm apart. Special requirements When established prune after flowering. Apply mulch around base of plant in spring. a June-August. H.90cm S.90cm.

Hydrangea Soil and site Moist, fertile soil. Plant in a cool, semi-shady part of the garden, avoid exposed east-facing sites, where cold winds may damage young spring growth, and also avoid dry, sunny spots. Work plenty of organic matter into the soil prior to planting. On lighter, sandier soils, feed in early spring with a flowering shrub fertiliser. This should be enough for the season, and should not be necessary on richer soils. Too much feeding can encourage excessive soft, leafy growth, with plants less likely to develop flower buds and more at risk from frost in colder winters. Special requirements Remove dead wood in spring, however, this species flower more prolifically when hard pruned. Each spring, cut back last year’s stems to the lowest pair of healthy buds, creating a low framework of branches. This usually results in a pruned framework of no more than 30cm high but, if more height is required, cut to about 60cm tall. a July-September. Height and spacing varies, see our website for individual varieties.

Kolkwitzia Soil and site Full sun or partial shade in fertile, well-drained soil. Spacing Plant 2m apart. Special requirements When established prune after flowering. Apply mulch around base of plant in spring. a May-June. H.3m S.4m

Lavender Soil and site Very well-drained soil in sunny position. Lavender is also excellent for pots. Spacing Plant 50cm apart. Special requirements Think Provence when you’re choosing the site – lavender likes a good baking. Prune mid-August. Division Propagate from cuttings. a June-August. H.60cm S.40-50cm



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kitchen garden plants

Philadelphus Soil and site Well-drained, moist soil in full sun or partial shade. Will tolerate any reasonably fertile well drained soil, including chalk. Spacing Plant 1.5m apart. Special requirements Prune out flower stems after flowering, remove older wood to base in winter. a June-July. H.1-1.5m S.1.5m

Syringa Soil and site Full sun, partial shade in fertile, moist but well-drained neutral soil. Spacing Plant 2.5m apart. Special requirements Prune lightly immediately after flowering, remove any dead, damaged or diseased stems. a May-June. H.2.5-4m S.2.5-3m

Viburnum Soil and site Will tolerate most soils other than very wet soils, being well suited to chalk soils. Avoid planting in extremely dry conditions or exposed, cold areas. Special requirements Pruning just after flowering but before the setting of seedpods is sufficient. If frost is imminent in your area, you should put off pruning so as not to damage new growth. Typically, once established viburnum shrubs should be trimmed back about a third of their size each year. Most pruning is done for shaping purposes only. a May-June. Height and spacing vary, see sarahraven.com for individual varieties.

Kitchen garden plantsAsparagus As a rough guide, ten established plants should yield about 3kg (7lb) of spears, over a six week period each year, for up to twenty years. I have thirty crowns, which produce enough for regular meals for our family of two adults and two children.

Planting out Plant in March or April. Prepare the bed by digging in well-rotted manure and, as asparagus likes free-drained soil, add grit if gardening on heavy clay. Remove any perennial weeds. Plant crowns 30cm (12in) apart, with 1m (39in) between rows. Dig a wide trench about 20cm (8in) deep and 30cm (12in) wide. Form a ridge of soil down the centre of the trench, about 10cm (4in) high. Place the crown on the ridge, draping the roots either side. Cover with about 5cm (2in) of soil, then add more soil as the stems grow, aiming to completely fill the trench by autumn. Keep well watered. Special requirements It is important to keep the bed free of weeds – they compete with the crowns – so mulch deeply with grit or compost in early spring. Harvest Do not harvest spears in the first year after planting, and only a few in the following year. After that, you should be able to cut lots of spears. When the crowns stop producing heavily, they are coming to the end of their natural season. Stop harvesting then and allow the ferns to grow. Give a high-nitrogen feed in early summer to encourage the ferns. Cut them to the ground in late autumn when the ferns are brown. Pests Watch out for asparagus beetle – a small yellow and black beetle with a red head. They and their buff-coloured grubs eat the ferns, sometimes defoliating them completely and so weakening them. Pick these pests off whenever you see them.

Fig Planting out Prepare soil well, remove any weeds and add well-rotted manure to the site along with a generous handful of general purpose fertiliser. Avoid planting in to waterlogged, parched or frozen soil. Plant 20cm away from the base of a sunny south or south west facing wall or fence in moist but well-drained soil. Backfill, using enriched garden soil, or with John Innes No 3 compost. To grow as a fan shape make a support of wires horizontally along the wall or fence to train the fig onto. Harvest August-September. Maintenance In late March, cut out dead stems and weak branches before growth starts. Apply a general-purpose granular feed and mulch around the base of plants,

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kitchen garden plants

with well-rotted organic matter, to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Once the figs appear, apply liquid tomato fertiliser every two to three weeks during the growing season, until they start to ripen. Water well during summer. Remove larger fruits that are not mature enough to ripen at the end of the season, leaving the tiny embryo fruits at the shoot tips, to ripen the following year. Protect wall-trained figs in winter, after leaf-fall cover with insulation or fleece then remove the insulation in late spring after the risk of frosts. To grow in a container Figs do well in containers, choose a pot slightly larger than the one it arrives in and re-pot every two years in March using John Innes No 3 in a pot about 5cm larger each time. Protect during winter.

Raspberries These one-year-old standard canes will provide bowls of fruit every year (but not the first) for the next 8-12 years. Soak them well before you plant them and make sure their roots remain undisturbed as they become established. They are easy to grow and maintain – all you need is space.

Planting out Plant November-March. Prepare the ground well – they do not like poor soil, so dig in plenty of well-rotted manure. Make a solid support with a wire and post structure. Plant at 40cm (34in) intervals, with rows about 2m (79in) apart. Plant at a depth of about 6cm (2.5in), spreading the roots out. Prune the stem back to 25cm (10in). Harvest July-October. Maintenance Water regularly and get rid of weeds. In spring, mulch with a well-rotted manure. Summer-fruiting raspberries (‘Glen Ample’) should be pruned as soon as they have finished fruiting, by cutting back all the fruited canes to ground level and tying in the new canes. Autumn-fruiting raspberries (‘Autumn Bliss’) should be pruned by cutting all the canes back to ground-level at the end of the winter. Prune all canes again in the spring by cutting back to a healthy bud about 15cm (6in) above the top of the supporting wire.

Rhubarb When you receive your bare root rhubarb plants Plant in a pot of compost, with the growing point at or just below the soil surface. Grow them on for about a month until the roots have filled the pot well. Planting out Choose an open, sunny site with moist but free-drained soil, as it hates being waterlogged in winter. Avoid frost pockets as stems are susceptible to frost. Choose an area which has not grown rhubarb in the last six years. Rhubarb can also be planted in very large pots at least 50cm (20in) deep and wide. Special requirements Don’t harvest anything in the first season – mulch your plants (not too close to the crown) and let them grow and establish themselves well. Simply allow the sticks of rhubarb to die back in the first autumn. Spread organic compost around the crown in its dormant winter phase. If a stressed plant should run to seed in late spring due to dry and cold conditions, remove the flowering spike straight away. Harvest In the second season (12-14 months after planting), you can start picking when the leaves have fully unfurled and the stems are approximately 30cm (12in) long. Never take more than half of the stems at a time – over-cropping will reduce the plants vigour. Stalks are harvested by gently twisting the stems and pulling from the base of the plant. Remember: the leaves are poisonous to eat but can be safely composted with the rest of your garden waste. Division Lift and divide crowns every 5 or 6 years, between November and March while the plant is dormant. Use a spade to lift each crown, split into 3 or 4 pieces and replant separately. Make sure each piece has a healthy looking bud, which will become the growth point for next year’s new shoots.



20

herbs

Strawberries Grow these in the border, in pots, in the veg patch or in the allotment. They are easy to grow and, after a smaller first crop, will provide abundant fruit for at least three years.

When you receive your bare root strawberry plants Immerse in a bucket of warm water and soak for 20 minutes so the roots can rehydrate. Planting out Choose a sunny, sheltered spot and dig in plenty of compost or well-rotted manure. Plant 45cm (18in) apart with 75cm (30in) between each row. Dig your planting holes to the same depth as the lengths of the roots and twice as wide. Spread the roots out in the hole and refill the hole with soil, keeping the crown of the plant where shoots will emerge at soil level. Water after planting and mulch with straw or bark to help preserve moisture. Alternatively, they may also be planted through sheets of polythene which will help smother weeds, retain soil moisture and encourage early cropping by warming the soil. Special requirements Strawberries require regular watering throughout the growing season and ripening fruits can be netted against pests. Flowers may need protecting from frosts in spring. Pinch out runners as they appear if new plants are not required. Once the crop has been picked, cut out old foliage from plants, taking care not to damage young leaves. Clear away straw, foliage and debris from around the plants to reduce opportunities for pests and diseases to take hold. Feed with a balanced fertilizer. Harvest May-July, when fully ripe, complete with stalks. Use at once for best flavour.

HerbsUnless otherwise indicated these plants can go straight in the ground, a window box or a container. They are best grown in full sun with regular watering.

Basil HALF-HARDY ANNUAL 20cm apart in the ground or closer in 1 or 2 litre pots. Plant out after the last frosts.

Coriander HALF-HARDY ANNUAL 5cm apart in the ground or closer in a 2 litre pot. Plant out after the last frosts.

Culinary Sage HARDY PERENNIAL 45cm apart in the ground or in a 2 litre pot.

Lemon verbena TENDER PERENNIAL 40cm apart or in a 1 or 2 litre pot. Plant out after the last frosts.

Rosemary HARDY PERENNIAL 50cm apart or in a 2 litre pot.

Tarragon TENDER PERENNIAL 40cm apart or in a 1 or 2 litre pot. Plant out after the last frosts.

Thyme HARDY PERENNIAL 30cm apart or in a 2 litre pot

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spring/summer 2018 planting instructions · planting instructions spring/summer 2018 ... they will...

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