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Surprisingly, you can plant some of the more tender shrubs against a north wall. North would seem to spell cold, because the north wind really does give rise to some of the coldest winter days. But. in fact, most frost damage to plants arises through over-rapid thawing of frozen tissues in early spring, and...
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Only the hardiest plants can survive on east facing wall because an east-facing wall really is a stern test of any plant’s durability. An east wall catches the first warmth of the winter sun, so any plant you put there risks being damaged by rapid thawing after frost and it bears the full brunt...
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Too many people think of climbers as permanent residents in the garden, yet many excellent types can be grown from seed. Perhaps the most familiar is the climbing form of nasturtium, often used to cover walls during the summer. Nasturtiums are easier than almost any other plants to raise from seed, and the only...
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The most important thing is to make it large enough. For hardening off plants, and per­haps growing one or two ridge cucumbers during the summer, consider a minimum size of 4ft by 3ft. Old windows make ideal tops – two or three laid side by side can make a good-sized frame. For flexibility make...
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The traditional hot bed technique is not so widely used in these days of heaters. But it’s a marvellous way to turn a cold frame into a heated greenhouse in spring. And if you’ve got access to the raw materials, it won’t cost you a penny. To make the bed, thoroughly mix together equal...
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There is no difference in principle between a cold frame and a small greenhouse, except for the height of plants you can grow. Nevertheless, there are some special rules to bear in mind when using a cold frame. - Position a cold frame facing south in full sun. Protection from north or east winds...
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Best place in garden to plant Chrysanthemums Chrysanthemums like light, sunshine and a well-drained soil. Keep them away from overhanging trees, sheds, fences and the shade of your house. Sunshine encourages strong stems, healthy leaves and brightly coloured blooms. Find a spot with some protection from strong winds. One thing to keep in mind...
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Leggy Stools A combination of too much heat and poor light cause leggy stools in Chrysanthemums . The roots of garden and greenhouse varieties need only to be kept frost-free during the winter, so aim for a temperature around 4°C (40°F) increasing it to 13-16°C (5 5-60°F) about three weeks before you intend to...
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Difference between bulbs and corms Bulbs and corms both occur on plants which have evolved reservoirs in which to store energy during dormant periods. But the plants swell in different parts of their anatomy. A bulb is a swelling of fleshy scales at the base of the leaves. The scales enclose next year’s stem...
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Acidantheras resemble small white gladioli and their flowers are sweetly scented. The problem with them is that, coming originally from tropical Africa, they cannot abide frost, and need a longer growing season. If you plant them towards the end of May when the frost danger is past, they won’t start to flower until September...
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