Page 31 - Garden News

Check tree ties

Young trees being supported by stakes and ties need
checking on a regular basis to make sure the tie isn’t too
tight and cutting into the trunk. On the other hand, check
the tie hasn’t worked loose, causing the tree to move
around against the stake. Ideally the tie should hold the
trunk firmly in position against the stake to prevent it
from rubbing. Buckle ties can very easily be slackened
off slightly or re-tightened as needed. Strap ties nailed to
the stake will need the fixing nail removing to allow you
to adjust the tie, before being retightened.

Freshen up gravel paths

Gravel paths can make an cost effective to construct and
aractive feature in the garden by maintenance is very simple. In
adding different colours and time a well-trodden path can
textures. They’re also easy and compact and the gravel can work
its way into the
sub-base, but with just a Prune back your
lile aention you can
easily freshen up a tired potted hydrangea
one. All you need to do
is rake over the gravel
to move any loose It’s good to leave most hydrangea plants be once they’ve
stones over the gone over in autumn so they bring attractive stems to your
compacted area and garden in winter and provide crispy cut flower material for
then spread a layer indoor displays. It also prevents frost from damaging the
of fresh gravel thinly plant. But now these stems will be slightly past it and in need
over the area and of a good trim down to give way for new growth. Cut each
lightly rake it in. flower stem right back to a healthy pair of new buds.

Wheelbarrow care Lift invasive

A wheelbarrow ground cover
is an essential
piece of
gardening kit At this time of year you can see a bit
used all year more of your borders and work out
round for what to keep and what needs keeping
many jobs, in check. Decide whether you like
such as taking your spreading ground cover and
garden waste want to transplant some of it to
to the compost another spot in the garden, or
heap, carting whether you get rid of a whole load.
bags of compost around and transporting plants Pictured are the leaves of reineckea,
and gardening equipment. So it’s essential it’s kept an evergreen perennial with pretty
in good running order. Tyres need checking and if flowers that performs a great job as
they feel a little soft, they should be pumped up. It’s shady ground cover, and gives this simply need thinning out, roots
also worth adding a little oil to the bearing in the interest through the year. It can get a and all, transplanting to another spot,
centre of the wheel to prevent annoying squeaks little too happy and spread too much potting up to give away or being
when you push it! underground. Invasive plants like disposed of in your household waste.

Subscribe and get 4 issues for just £1! Go to www.greatmagazines.co.uk/gn January 27 2018 /Garden News31