Easter Monday

Easter Monday is also known as Hop Monday. Probably best known for their association with beer, hops are the flowers of the female plants and appear amongst the light green foliage from July to September. The hop plant, Humulus Lupulus is a perennial and will need to be cut back each winter, however once established, the vigorous climber will easily clothe trellis-work, camouflage sheds or brightening up a mixed hedge in a single growing season and as a result, is one of my favourites.

Tips for February

February is a good month to plan improvements and reconsider various aspects of your plot. Compile a book of cuttings, pictures and notes of things you want to do in your garden this year. Make 3 lists – ‘Must Do’, ‘Would Like’ and ‘If I win the Lottery’ and fill the pages.
Make sure you have the right equipment and tools for the season ahead, repair or replace items as necessary. Tidy up the shed, find the mower and prepare it for the season ahead. You’ll be glad you did once the grass starts growing!
Pressure wash drives, patios and decked areas to get rid of moss and algae, don’t forget your waterproofs!
Deadhead containerised winter bedding displays to encourage new blooms, and add a few new plants if necessary. It’s worth raising spirits at this time of year.