USE plants with decorative seedheads such as teasel, Eryngium giganteum and Lunaria annua (Honesty), all of which provide eye-catching architecture to your border.Read
As the RSPB’s annual Big Garden Birdwatch approaches, HANNAH STEPHENSON looks at the types of birds dominating the garden scene and how to attract specific birds through wildlife-friendly planting and a rich variety of bird foodRead
Make sure that tender and half-hardy fuchsias, remaining dormant in their pots, do not become completely dry. Spray any early growth with tepid water in the light to soften the wood, but do this sparingly.Read
GIVE seed potatoes a head start by ‘chitting’ them now. Buy seed potatoes from garden centres and lay them on trays or in egg cartons on a well-lit windowsill, but out of direct sunlight.Read
Fill upturned flowerpots with straw or shredded paper and place them on top of canes close to vulnerable plants. These will trap them. Check the pots daily.Read
The new year is a good time to plan a new border. Hannah Stephenson offers some ideas on border design and gives tips on how to minimise maintenanceRead
FOR over 25 years I have observed the various birds that choose to visit my little piece of Planet Earth in Netherton, without the restrictions of Spring Watch, Autumn Watch and the RSPB Great Garden Bird Watch.Read
1Vegetables – organise your new 2012 gardening diary with sowing and planting dates to help get maximum use out of your land. Write out labels if you have received your seed order. Look out for good deals on decent multi-purpose compost over the next few weeks.Read
RAIN Garden kits are an exciting new range of products to help you take advantage of the rainwater that cascades off the roof of your house every time it rains.Read
IN THE second article that I wrote, when I started this page in August 1999, I listed and detailed 10 of my favourite plants and, having reviewed it , I thought you might like to be reminded of some of them.Read
1Dates for your 2012 Diary – Harrogate Spring Flower Show runs from April 26 to 29 – for details visit www.flowershow.org.uk for details and to order tickets or call 01423 546157 for information.Read
_ Vegetables – I hope that you enjoy your home-grown sprouts and potatoes tomorrow and that you have got your plans in place for more vegetables in 2012.Read
FIRSTLY, can I wish all Huddersfield Examiner readers a very Happy Christmas, Winter Solstice celebration and happy, healthy New Year – you choose which ones fit you and your family.Read
