We know the phrase and we always hope that the autumn season will bring one. But what on earth is an Indian summer and why do people crave to get one? Firstly, there's all that beautiful light that results from autumn sunshine. It creatures wonderful colours as well as warmth. But where did the expression originate?
Read moreAnyone with a kitchen garden or allotment should be enjoying a harvest glut in September. Apples are ripe for plucking, courgettes are still coming, onions are ready for drying, tomatoes are ripening on the vine and potatoes are inviting you to dig for their delicious treasure. There are still runner beans hiding amongst the climbing green foliage, autumn-fruiting raspberries and tayberries are luscious, blackberries taste beautiful and beetroot is bursting from the soil. But how do you cope with a glut of wonderful produce?
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No plant can survive in dry shade, right?
Wrong. A shady place presents an exciting challenge if you want to have some fun. There are always areas of a garden that pose a problem, even to keen gardeners. The most common situation in which it's difficult to find things that will grow is that of dry shade. Under trees, next to a north-facing wall or at the base of hedges.
But even this seemingly inhospitable environment opens up a world of possibilities.
Read moreThe best time to plant a spring flowering display of bulbs is during September and October, when the summer is gently fading away. There's just one simple rule to follow: plant bountiful bulbs! These spherical powerhouses will easily establish themselves in your warm soil, ready to burst into new life as soon as the season dictates. It's a great way to help you think about the spring, rather than dwelling on the winter months that are lurking.
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