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| Plenty to do now that the cold weather has hit |
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By HEATHER BUTLER* IF you thought there was nothing to do in your garden now that it’s winter, then think again! There is plenty to do even though winter vegies are planted, roses pruned and lawns are mowed. With all of the debate about the rising price of fruit and vegetables, it’s time to do something about it. Now is the perfect time for planting a variety of fruit trees to start your mini orchard. The raspberry canes, strawberry runners, seed potatoes, olive trees, citrus trees and fruit trees are all here and there is something to suit everyone from broad acreage to a balcony. You don't need anything fancy, a pot or polystyrene box will get you started. Firstly, decide what it is that you like to eat - if you don't like it, chances are you won't look after it - then work out the best aspect for the plants such as where will they get the most sun? Then choose the best variety available for your needs. For example, do you use a lot of lemons? Many may be a bit tricky to start with but provide an abundance of fruit once established. At planting time, prepare the soil well or if you are using a pot, don't be stingy and buy a good quality potting mix as it does make a difference. Don't be tempted to put fertiliser on at this stage. If you are planting a bare-rooted tree, the food will burn the young roots. If you are planting an evergreen, new shoots in winter are frost tender and will burn so wait until spring, then give them a feed. Using a good plant starter to water the plants in with and stimulate root growth, and stake any trees if necessary to prevent root-rock from our gentle spring breezes! Even though the majority of theses plants except citrus and olive, are dormant keep the water up at least once a week if the rain doesn't do the job for you. A very common reason for bare-rooted stock death is drying out either when first bought or left in its bag unwatered or even planted out and ignored. Finally, whether in pots or the ground, mulch your plants well. This will help keep weeds down, keep moisture in and keep the soil a bit warmer around the base of the plants. All that is left to do is sit back and relax with that book and a cuppa indoors out of the chill. Don't forget to give them a good talking too with plenty of threats involving sharp implements if bountiful harvests are not forthcoming! *Heather Butler is principal of Lindisfarne Village Garden Centre
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