The Link Winter 2019/2020 The Link Dec-Jan 2020 v3 | Page 8

ESTABLISHED 1886 www.caterhamdistricthorticulturalsoc.weebly.com www.facebook.com/cat.hortisoc I t is a pleasant time for families and friends to celebrate one of the great festivals in the year. Holly, Ivy and variegated leaves and berries add to the charm and atmosphere. There are still a few important jobs to be undertaken outside in December. The weather can be unpredictable, so it very important that you protect all vulnerable, sensitive plants: t
Ponds and Greenhouses, should be warmed up, if frosty weather is forecast. A heater in the pond or a ball in the water, will prevent icing up. t
Clear up the last of the fallen leaves from shrubs, paths and ponds. All debris should be cleared. Garden hygiene will prevent shelter for pests and viruses. t
Shrubs and trees should be securely staked. Old raspberry canes should be cut and roses should be reduced in size, to minimise wind damage. t
In mild weather, dig the flower and vegetable beds and allow frosts to break up the clods. Enrich the soil by adding compost, humus and farmyard manure. t
Dig up the Parsnips and use up your well stored fruit and vegetables. t
Service your lawn mower and clean, tidy and sharpen your tools. 8 t
Lag your pipes. t
Birds need to be fed & watered. Armchair gardening is relaxing at this time of the year, and will be perfect to decide all your gardening plans and designs for the forthcoming year. Seed catalogues will help. We hope that the gardening tips which we have produced over the year have been useful to you. We wish all our members and readers a very Happy Christmas and a Bright and Prosperous New Year. * * * * * JANUARY 2020 A Happy New Year to all our Readers and Garden Enthusiasts Preparing for the New Year t
Carry out liming on recently dug land. A month’s interval is necessary between manuring and liming. Brassicas love limey soil. t
Crop rotation helps to avoid a build-up of pests and diseases. t
Planning for the growing season should be done now. Shrubs and Fruit Trees t
Shrubs and Trees should be securely supported by stakes to avoid wind damage, t
In dry weather, complete the pruning of apples and pears and cut back newly planted Summer Raspberries. t
A tar oil winter spray should be used on apples, pears, currants and gooseberries. t
Peach and almond trees should be sprayed now to control peach leaf curl. t
Protect currants and gooseberries with fine mesh netting. t
Wrap grease bands around the trunk and main stems of fruit trees. In General t
Check any produce stored. Parsnips are hardy and can be left in the ground. t
Keep digging & improve your soil t
Strict Hygiene will control unwanted visitors t
Keep feeding and provide water for the birds. To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: [email protected]