In Beechgrove Garden episode 25 2015: Carole and George plant various combinations of bulbs and spring bedding plants to see which of these make the most attractive displays, while Jim has a big clear-out in his greenhouse.
The programme catches up with Brian Cunningham at Scone Palace Garden to review the progress made to the David Douglas trail, and Carole also visits Tillypronie Garden near Tarland and delights in the swathes of heathers.
The Beechgrove Garden episode 25 2015:
Planting bulbs
George was outside the greenhouse. It is time to start planting bulbs for entering into the spring flower shows. If you fancy having a go at it, George explained that the best thing to do is to work back from the show date to find out when to plant them. Approximately 12 weeks is required for the bulbs to grow and be ready in time for the show.
Borderline hardy shrubs
Jim was in the Trials Area. About a year ago Jim planted six borderline-hardy shrubs to test their winter hardiness. These are shrubs that are widely available and described as being fully hardy. Last year we had one of the mildest winters in years, so they haven’t really been tested for hardiness yet.
Spring bulbs and bedding
George and Carole were in the Trials Area where they were admiring the sunflowers for the last time. The variety ‘Giraffe’ has finally started flowering and has reached a staggering 3.6m in height with still some more growing to do.
Clearing out the greenhouse
George and Jim were outside the greenhouses admiring the late colour here. Our little potted Acer looked like it was on fire. The Sanvitalia is still flowering and doing well and looked great planted beneath the dark leaves of the Ricinus.
Handy Hints – Beechgrove Garden episode 25 2015
Jim was in the Cutting Garden looking at the apple ‘Redlove’. This is a top heavy plant with lots of fruit. Jim explained that you need to ensure that plants are
properly staked to protect them from the autumn gales. The ties need to be secured to the stake so that the plant does not suffer from wind rock. This can cause damage to the roots and the plant could die.
