Author: admin_paul99

When and How to Plant Potatoes

As we head towards Spring now is the time to start thinking about Potatoes.

The best time to plant potatoes in the South of England is from mid-March to mid-April. This will allow the potatoes to grow during the warmer months and be ready to harvest in late summer or early autumn.

To plant potatoes, follow these steps:

            1. Choose a sunny, well-drained spot in your garden with loose, fertile soil.
            2. Dig a trench that is about 15cm deep and 60cm wide.
            3. Add some well-rotted manure or compost to the bottom of the trench.
            4. Place the seed potatoes in the trench, with the shoots facing upwards and about 30cm apart.
            5. Cover the potatoes with about 10cm of soil.
            6. As the plants grow, keep earthing up the soil around the stems, to create a ridge of soil. This will help to encourage more potatoes to form and protect them from light which can cause them to turn green.
            7. Water the plants regularly, especially during dry spells.

Potatoes are typically harvested from late summer to early autumn, depending on the planting time and variety of potato. The plants are usually ready to be harvested when the foliage has died back and turned yellow or brown.

To harvest the potatoes, gently dig them up with a fork or spade, being careful not to damage them. Once you have harvested them, leave them to dry for a few hours before storing them in a cool, dark place. This will help to prolong their shelf life and prevent them from spoiling.

Happy Gardening from Rainbow Garden Nurseries 

Welcome D’s Coffee House

We are pleased to announce that starting from 18th March D’s Specialist Coffee House will be at our Nursery 3 day a week serving amazing coffee.

As well as:

HOT DRINKS
All coffees and selection of tea’s
Hot chocolate
Alternative milks and Syrups.

COLD DRINKS
Juices and selection of cold drinks
Frappes
Iced coffees
Smoothies

SELECTION OF FOODS.
Croissants
Cookies vegan and non vegan (homemade) Selected Snacks and treats.

SUMMER TIME. ALL THE ABOVE BUT ADD…
Ice creams & lollies

 

Jobs to do in January

In January, you can focus on tasks such as pruning shrubs and trees, cleaning up debris from the garden, and planning for the upcoming growing season. If the weather is mild, you may be able to begin preparing beds for planting. Additionally, you can also check on any perennial plants that may have been damaged over the winter, and divide or transplant them if necessary. It’s also good time to order any seeds or plants you would like to have for the upcoming growing season.

Pruning Shrubs and Trees

The best way to prune shrubs and trees in January depends on the specific plant and its growth habits. In general, however, here are some guidelines for pruning shrubs and trees in January:

            • Start by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged wood. This will help to prevent the spread of disease and pests throughout the plant.
            • Next, prune back any overgrown or unruly branches to shape the plant and encourage new growth.
            • For shrubs, focus on thinning out the interior of the plant to increase air circulation and light penetration. This can be done by removing some of the older, woodier branches.
            • For trees, be sure to make proper cuts when removing branches to avoid tearing the bark or leaving stubs.
            • Be aware of the blooming time of the shrubs and trees, if the shrubs or trees you are going to prune will bloom in the spring, it’s better to wait until after they have bloomed to prune them.
            • Make sure to use the proper tools for pruning, such as sharp, clean pruning shears or a saw for larger branches.

It’s important to note that some shrubs and trees may require specific pruning techniques, so it’s always best to research the specific needs of your plants before pruning.

Preparing Beds For Planting

Here are some steps you can take to prepare beds for planting in January in time for spring:

            • Start by removing any debris from the beds, such as leaves, twigs, and dead plants. This will help to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering in the garden.
            • If the soil is dry and crumbly, add compost or well-rotted manure to improve its structure and fertility.
            • Use a fork or tiller to turn over the soil, breaking up any clumps and incorporating the organic matter.
            • Test the pH of the soil and adjust it as needed. Most plants prefer a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
            • Rake the beds smooth and level, removing any large rocks or debris that may impede the growth of your plants.
            • If weather permits, you could also cover the beds with black plastic or straw to warm up the soil and kill off any weed seeds or pests.
            • If the soil is still too wet or cold to work with, you can also wait until later in the season when the soil is dryer and warmer.
            • Finally, mark the beds with a layout of the plants to be planted, this will help you visualize the final look of the garden and make adjustments if necessary.

It’s important to note that these are general guidelines. Research the specific needs of the plants you are planning to grow before preparing the beds. If you have any question regarding this subject, we are more than happy to answer them.

Happy Gardening from Rainbow Garden Nurseries