Hello and Welcome to our September Newsletter

• Now is a great time to collect seed from hardy perennials, biennials and hardy annuals. Look for ripened seed pods, these will usually be brown in colour and have a dry crispy texture. One exception are Primulas. Their seed is best collected and sown while it is still green and moist. You can sow collected seed straight away. After all that's what nature would do. Some will germinate quickly, others may need the stratification of a cold winter before germinating in spring. So it's a case of trial and error. A cold frame over winter is the ideal place to keep the seed trays. You don't want to keep them too warm just protected from the worst of the elements. 
• You can start planting most bulbs anytime from September right up to Christmas. Wait until October or November before planting Tulips however to reduce the risk of Tulip Fire disease. We will cover Tulip planting in our next Newsletter
• Move your tender plants indoors or into the greenhouse now as there is a risk of frost at night. Remember to check which plants require full frost protection. An unheated greenhouse will not keep the frost at bay it will only give a degree or two of protection against the outside temperatures. If unsure bring plants into the house or a heated Conservatory. You are welcome ring us for advice we will be very happy to guide you.
• Keep an eye on your houseplants as the day lengths shorten. Those which you may have moved away from the hot sun in summer may possibly need more natural light as the winter progresses. Signs of a lack of light will be if plants start to stretch or develop a distinct lean towards the light.
• Think about which Trees and Shrubs might make a good addition to your garden. Autumn is the perfect time to plant them as they have time to get their roots established before the dry weather returns next year. They are vitally important for the wildlife in your garden too, providing food and shelter.
• In the herbaceous border start cutting back, dividing and planting perennials. Take this opportunity to rejuvenate congested clumps, and make space for new plants. Doing this now will save a lot of work in the spring.
• Continue to feed the Birds and remember to always provide fresh water and clean feeders and baths out regularly. You can also help them by leaving seed heads to ripen and rose hips to give them a natural supply of food through the Autumn and even into the winter.
• If you're lucky enough to have hedgehogs visiting your garden they could really do with your help to fatten up before hibernation. Put out meat based cat food and water. Never put out milk as the lactose is not good for hedgehogs. 
• Harvest Apples now and store the best fruit. It is best to use up any fruit which have blemishes or broken skin as these will not store well. You can still sow salad crops such as cut and-come-again lettuce, spinach and radishes. Also now is a good time to sow broad beans and onion sets for an early spring harvest.