In Gardeners World episode 30 2015, Carol Klein explores the inner workings of leaves – how they harness the sun’s energy and turn it into food. And Joe Swift meets Griff Rhys Jones for a private tour of his remarkable garden and discovers what a passionate gardener he is.
Gardeners World episode 30 2015:
Ground cover plants
In this week’s show, Monty chooses plants to act as ground cover in his wildlife garden. Ground cover plants are essential for the border, yet are so often overlooked. With careful planning, they can be used to form a dense mat of foliage which is fantastic for suppressing weeds. They also provide shelter for small mammals and birds, and many have flowers that are attractive to insects. Interplant with bulbs for maximum colour and interest!
Save self-seeded forget-me-nots
Forget-me-nots often self-seed in the garden, but if they’ve popped up in the wrong place, don’t waste them! Either dig them up and move them to their new position, or transfer them to a seed tray or pot until you’re ready to plant them out.
Remove figs that won’t ripen
Your fig tree may be covered in green fruit, but there’s little chance of it ripening now. To help conserve energy, remove anything larger than a pea, leaving behind the tiny embryo figs in the leaf axils. With luck, these will survive the winter and supply you with a bumper crop next year.
Sow broad beans
If you sow broad beans now, there’s a good chance you’ll get an extra early crop next spring. You can either sow them direct in the soil or in pots for planting out at a later date. Whichever method you use, choose a hardy variety like ‘Aquadulce’. Broad beans are easy to grow and utterly delicious, heralding the end of the hungry gap between late autumn and the beginning of bountiful summer harvests.
DIY plant supports
Follow Monty Don’s step-by-step guide on how to make your own plant supports. They’re cheap and easy to make, so why not have a go?
