Turn your Christmas wrap and cardboard into compost
The aftermath of the festive season often leaves households grappling with an overwhelming amount of waste, particularly in the form of wrapping paper and various types of cardboard packaging. While it may feel like a disposable headache, this seasonal surplus…
What to do in January
January is a month for light maintenance and preparation in an easy-care garden. Since most plants are dormant, focus on structural pruning of deciduous shrubs and fruit trees to maintain their shape. Clear away any remaining fallen leaves or debris…
The misunderstood dandelion
To many, the dandelion Taraxacum officinale is nothing more than a stubborn, yellow-headed weed, a relentless invader of manicured lawns, and a nemesis to the dedicated gardener. Yet, this perception is a profound disservice to one of nature’s most resilient and…
A unique way to display Christmas cactus
The vibrant blooms of a Christmas cactus bring a splash of colour to the winter months, and finding a unique way to display them can add a touch of personal charm to your home decor. One ingenious and sustainable method…
Growing hyacinths in water
Growing fragrant hyacinths indoors, especially during the cold winter months, is a delightful and easy form of ‘forcing,’ a technique that encourages bulbs to flower earlier than they would naturally. For the best and quickest results, start with ‘prepared’ hyacinth…
Plant and tidy Hellebores
Hellebores, often known as the Christmas or Lenten Rose, are a magnificent addition to any winter garden. While they might seem like a costly investment at the nursery, their enduring nature, evergreen foliage, and spectacular mid-winter bloom make them excellent…
Garden sheer maintenance
One of the most satisfying jobs in midwinter, when the weather outside makes gardening impossible, is retreating to the garden shed for some therapeutic tool maintenance. When it’s too cold, wet, or dark to be outside in the garden, cleaning…
Reduce plastic waste in your garden
The push toward sustainability has made a profound impact on how we approach our daily lives, and the garden is no exception. As environmental awareness grows, many gardeners are actively seeking ways to lessen their reliance on plastic, particularly the…
You can still plant spring bulbs in December
December is still an excellent time to plant many spring-flowering bulbs. The common wisdom suggests planting in autumn, but this period remains a viable and often necessary window for success. As long as the ground is not frozen solid, you…
Bringing a pot-grown Christmas tree home for the festive season
Choosing a pot-grown Christmas tree is a wonderful decision, offering the classic festive look with the sustainable bonus of being a living plant you can keep. When purchasing one in December, look carefully to ensure you’re getting a container-grown tree,…