Step 4 – Water-wise watering
Of all the tasks in a traditional garden, none consumes more time and resources than watering. This chapter, Water-Wise Watering, is dedicated to transforming this chore into a quick, efficient process. The core principle of water-wise gardening is simple: work…
Step 3 – Right plant, right place
When building a low-maintenance garden, right plant, right place is your greatest asset. This is all about making thoughtful choices at the nursery that will save you countless hours of work later. A common mistake is choosing plants for their…
Step 2 – Smart design and planning
Creating a low-maintenance garden begins not with planting, but with smart design and planning. This initial stage is crucial for ensuring long-term success and minimal effort. The goal is to develop a resilient framework that works in harmony with nature,…
Step 1 – The low-maintenance mindset
What does it actually take to create a garden that’s easy to care for? The goal isn’t to create a garden that needs no effort at all, since that’s just not possible. Instead, it’s about making smart choices that cut…
Are all bamboos invasive?
Dreaming of adding the exotic beauty of bamboo to your garden but worried about it taking over? You’re not alone! Many gardeners shy away from bamboo due to its reputation for aggressive spreading. However, did you know that not all…
Will campanulas like a mix of acidic compost and topsoil?
A reader has asked if campanulas can grow in an old half-barrel that already contains a mix of ericaceous soil and topsoil. Many campanula varieties are surprisingly adaptable and aren’t as particular about soil pH as some other plants. While…
Why is my star magnolia looking a little anaemic?
Your beautiful Magnolia stellata, with its delicate star-shaped blossoms, is a true sign of spring. But what if those lovely green leaves are starting to look a bit, well, anaemic? If you notice a pale green or yellowish discolouration between…
What are these red beetles on my lilies?
The lily beetle (Lilioceris lilii) is a notoriously invasive non-native pest for UK gardeners who love lilies (Lilium), fritillaries (Fritillaria), and giant lilies (Cardiocrinum). Both the adult beetles, with their striking bright red bodies and black heads, and their unpleasant-looking…