DECEMBER GARDEN DIARY
With an increase in energy and mild weather at the start of the month I clocked up 16 hours work, mainly emptying the
mesh enclosure of leaf mould, so that I could refill with this years leaves. A large herbaceous bed on the
right hand side of the path has been cleared of clutter and replanted with favourite architectural plants - moved from
various areas of the garden. Having removed the obelisks from this bed, the garden already looks better integrated.
The colours will mirror the Heather bed on the opposite side of the path. I have decided to go for bold planting next year and have already been looking in the catalogues for ideas.
When I first started the garden I was very much drawn to these types of plants and ordered them from
Architectural Plants of Sussex.
After several years of growth these orginal plants are now quite spectacular. I've acquired a book that is going to help
with my future plans - Bold Plants by Noel Kingsbury.
FLOWERS
A few winter flowering Cyclamen have emerged with the mild weather and it is the first time I have seen the Witch Hazel
flowering in December. The yellow Winter Jasmine has been trained along the arches of the pergola.
VEGETABLES
Leeks, parsnips and brussels are being harvested each week. For all their hard work it is well worth the effort for an
organic home grown brussel.
The obelisks from the herbaceous flower bed will be used for runner beans next year.
I also intend to sow more annuals with the vegs.
The green manure on 2 beds will be dug into the soil in spring before planting.
A plan has been prepared for next years rotation of crops. Will definitely buy more plug plants as they save a lot of work
and crop earlier.
GARDEN GROUP
The Christmas lunch at Ann's home was as successful as last year, with everyone bringing a dish -
and by some miracle no-one brought the same food with no organisation needed!
Garden Diary