About twenty years ago, I embarked on a little project that ended up being one of the most meaningful gifts I’ve ever given. It all started with Ryan Linton, one of my dedicated staff members, and his lovely wife, Claire. At the time, they were newlyweds, and as a gesture of appreciation (and a bit of celebration), I decided to build them a garden decking area. Now, this wasn’t just any ordinary deck—this was a labour of love.
I laid the decking myself, making sure it was just right.
baby palm trees 20 years later
It had to be a space they could relax in, entertain, and enjoy their garden for years to come. As part of the design, I planted a couple of Australian cabbage palms to give the space a bit of flair and character. I thought, what could be better than something that not only looks great but also grows and thrives over the years, much like their marriage?
Fast forward to today, and that decking has seen a lot. Barbecues, family gatherings, late-night chats, and all the wear and tear that comes with two decades of British weather. To my surprise, Ryan recently decided it was time to replace the decking with some fresh new wood. The fact that it lasted as long as it did was a testament to the care they put into it, but even the best decks need a refresh after twenty years.
20 year old Australian palms
Ryan’s done a fantastic job with the new decking.
He’s clearly inherited some DIY skills along the way, and the space looks as stunning as ever. What’s even more remarkable is how those Australian cabbage palms I planted all those years ago have grown. They’ve become a focal point in the garden, towering and lush, adding a real sense of life to the space.
It’s moments like this that remind me why giving someone a personal gift can mean so much. Sure, it was just a decking area at the time, but it’s grown into something far more significant—a backdrop to twenty years of memories, laughter, and love. And let’s be honest, it’s probably the best wedding present I’ve ever given!
Here’s to the next twenty years of that decking and those magnificent cabbage palms standing tall in the Linton garden.
My interest in the wall geardens came from the beautiful gardens that stuck in my mind as a child growing up here in Yorkshire. Importantly, every year, we would go on a school trip either to the Yorkshire dales or the Lake District. Happily, I will never forget the beautiful cottage gardens that adorned most village gardens in this part of the world.
Subsequently, these school trips set a precedent and an interest in gardening that would stay with me for the rest of my life. Consequently, because of these trips, I have a complete love of nature and all wildlife. Beautiful walls were planted with spring-flowering plants that cascaded from the top of the small garden walls. My first love was for the vibrant purple flowers of Aubretia. Probably one of the first plants to flower. Naturally, sedums were also popular and seemed to prosper in the dry and well-drained conditions of the walls.
Moving forward forty odd years, I decided to build a low wall down the length of my drive here in Mirfield, West Yorkshire. The wall had two purposes ! The first was to stop delivery cars and vans from turning on my lawn. The second was to create a wall garden.
The twin walls were filled with top soil mixed with fine gravel for good drainage and planted with many alpine plants. I then topped the plants with small pieces of gravel for drainage.
The Best Plants for Your Wall Garden: Embrace Vertical Gardening
Vertical gardens, also known as wall gardens, are an excellent way to add some greenery to cramped areas. These vertical gardens can turn any area into a verdant sanctuary, whether it’s a little patio, a balcony, or just a lifeless wall that needs some greenery. They’re also ideal for those of us who have little garden space and live in cities. Now let’s explore some of the top plants that can be grown in UK wall gardens.
1. Ferns: The Timeless Option- Planting out a wall garden
For wall gardens, ferns are a good choice, especially in partially or completely shaded areas. Their tiny fronds give the scene a lush, textural quality. For vertical planting, fern varieties such as Maidenhair Fern and Hart’s Tongue Fern work particularly well. They can withstand the colder UK environment and grow best in soil that is wet and well-drained.
2. Succulents: Beauties with Minimal Upkeep
Succulents require very little upkeep and are perfect for sunny areas. Their many hues and forms can combine to produce a powerful visual impact. Think about the hardy Sedum (Stonecrop) and Sempervivum (Houseleeks), which are ideal for wall gardening. They are ideal for busy gardeners because they don’t need much irrigation and can survive dry circumstances.
3. Herbs: Useful and Decorative– Planting out a wall garden
Why not have both elegance and practicality? Herb gardening is a very clever idea for your wall garden. They look fantastic, and you’ll always have fresh herbs on ready for cooking. Great options are Thyme, Oregano, Parsley, and Basil. They adore sunlit areas and soil with good drainage. An added plus is the scent they bring to your garden.
4. Cascading Greenery: Trailing Plants
When trailing plants fall and create a waterfall of green in your wall garden, it can create a stunning impression. Ivy (Hedera helix) is a traditional option, but be careful—it may get rather rambunctious. Other great choices with soft petals and lush foliage are Bacopa and Lobelia.
5. Vertical Veggies: Edible Plants– Planting out a wall garden
In your wall garden, you can indeed produce veggies! Vertical gardens can be a great home for strawberries, lettuce, and spinach, as well as cherry tomatoes. Ensure that they receive frequent watering and lots of sunlight. Vertical food gardening is not only very space-efficient but also quite satisfying.
6. Blooming Plants: Vibrant Pop of Colour
Think about using plants like Begonias, Petunias, and Geraniums to provide a splash of colour. These floral plants may infuse your space with joy and are ideal for wall gardens. Particularly, begonias thrive in shaded areas, while petunias and geraniums prefer sunny settings.
7. Moss: The Carpet of Nature
Moss may be a fantastic addition to your wall garden for its distinctive and organic appeal. It needs very little care and grows best in moist, shady locations. You can cover the surface of your vertical garden with Cushion Moss and Sheet Moss to provide a soft, green backdrop for other plants.
Advice for a Successful Wall Garden
Select the Correct Structure: Make sure the framework is strong enough to hold the weight of the soil and plants. Repurposed pallets, pockets, or even vertical planters can be useful.
Think About Irrigation: Make sure your plants—especially the taller ones—get adequate water. For wall gardens, drip watering systems can be really helpful.
Light and Positioning : Take note of your plants’ light needs. Place plants that prefer shade lower on the stem or in shady regions, and plants that prefer sun higher on the stem or in sunny spots.
Soil and fertiliser: To maintain the health and prosperity of your plants, use high-quality potting soil and give slow-release fertilisers some thought.
Final Thoughts
In my opinion, wall gardens are a creative way to incorporate nature into your life, regardless of how small your space is. They’re not merely a space-saving option. In my life, I have seen many tiny gardens with well-planted boundary walls. Many different types of plants can flourish in twin wall and vertical gardens, including bright flowers, delicious herbs, and hardy succulents, in addition to lush ferns. Now get your gardening gloves on, roll up your sleeves, and begin turning those barren walls into colourful, living works of art.
https://hydroponicsinfo.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/planters-2-300x300.jpg00Eric Robertshttps://hydroponicsinfo.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/planters-2-300x300.jpgEric Roberts2024-07-24 04:10:262024-07-24 04:20:55Planting out a wall garden
Introducing Tropical Treats to West Yorkshire Gardens
You’re not alone if you’ve ever dreamed of relaxing in your West Yorkshire garden. Surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. Of course, while drinking a cocktail topped with bananas, bought from the local shop, you tried to grow yourself. Although they may seem like an exotic dream for our temperate environment, banana plants can be grown successfully in the UK with the proper variety and a little bit of know-how.
Unfortunately, we do not have a long enough growing period here in West Yorkshire before the first frost comes along and cuts them down.Of course, they look very sad with their blackened leaves sagging to the garden floor.
Selecting the Appropriate Type-Bananas in West Yorkshire
It’s important to select a banana cultivar that can withstand the British weather before you start planting. Seek out hardy varieties like as ‘Musa basjoo‘ or ‘Musa sikkimensis,’ as they may withstand our milder winters with appropriate safeguarding. In the UK, these types won’t usually bear edible fruit outside, but their tropical leaves will still give your garden a visually arresting, exotic atmosphere.Naturally, this is all the gardeners in the north of England can hope for.
Starting Out: Site Selection and Planting
Banana trees do best in warm, protected areas that receive lots of sunlight. In your garden, pick a sunny place that faces south so they may enjoy the sun’s rays all day long. They also require soil rich in organic content and well-drained, nutritious soil. If you have a lot of clay in your soil, you might want to try adding grit and compost to improve drainage and fertility.
Make sure the planting hole is bigger than the banana plant’s root ball. Make sure the soil’s surface is level with the top of the root ball. Cover the base with mulch to help keep moisture in and keep weeds at bay.
Bananas in West Yorkshire
How to Maintain Your Banana Tree-Bananas in West Yorkshire
Watering: Regular watering is necessary for bananas, especially in dry seasons. Make sure the soil is constantly damp but not soggy.
Feeding: To encourage healthy growth, fertilise your banana tree on a regular basis during the growing season with a balanced fertiliser.I prefer to mulch them well with some old-fashioned, well-rotted horse manure.
Protection: To keep your banana tree safe from frost during the winter, if the banana is a pot plant, cover it with horticultural fleece or temporarily relocate it inside a greenhouse or conservatory. When grown outside, the plant’s crown should be well covered with a thick layer of dead leaves or horse manure; even straw would be ideal.
Pruning: To keep your banana tree looking neat and healthy, remove any dead or damaged leaves on a regular basis.
Mirfield, West Yorkshire
Where creativity and gardening skills are deeply ingrained, cultivating banana trees lends a whimsical beauty to our surroundings. Just think of the talk-starter your banana tree may be—a unique twist for our northern environment and a tribute to your horticultural prowess.
In a long summer, we should see a large red flower developing. Followed by a bunch of tiny bananas. However, our season is never long enough for the bananas to develop and ripen fully.
In summary
Although cultivating banana trees in the UK involves some work and consideration for our particular weather, the benefits are substantial. Bananas may offer a flavour of the exotic to Mirfield, whether your goal is to create a lush tropical paradise in your garden or you just appreciate the challenge of cultivating something unexpected.
Accept the challenge of gardening, give your banana tree proper care, and who knows? Your next garden party might just have a distinctively Bananas in West Yorkshire touch of the tropics. Cheers to growing bananas and dreams in this colourful part of the Earth!
https://hydroponicsinfo.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/planters-2-300x300.jpg00Eric Robertshttps://hydroponicsinfo.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/planters-2-300x300.jpgEric Roberts2024-06-29 13:41:242024-06-29 15:28:27Bananas in West Yorkshire
This olive tree lost all its leaves this winter and is struggling to survive ? Growing Olive Trees in Yorkshire
Growing Olive Trees in Yorkshire
UK Olive Tree Production:
A Touch of Mediterranean in your Yorkshire garden
Growing olive trees could be the answer if you’ve ever wanted to add a little Mediterranean sunshine to your Yorkshire garden here in the UK. Although olives are associated with nations such as Italy and Greece, it is quite feasible to grow these hardy trees here in Britain, including in Mirfield, where I enjoy my gardening.
Selecting the Appropriate Type
It’s important to select the appropriate olive variety for our relatively cooler climate before you get your hands dirty. For gardens in the UK, varieties like as ‘Arbequina’ and ‘Picual’ are perfect because of their reputation for withstanding warmer temperatures. If given the proper care and attention, these trees can flourish in addition to surviving.
Starting Out: Site Selection and Planting
Let’s go on to the details. Olive trees require sunshine to thrive, so locate them in a sunny area of your garden where they can get it all day. Additionally, they like well-drained soil, so if your soil is clay-like or heavy in general, you might want to add some sand or grit to help with drainage.
Dig a hole that is somewhat bigger than the tree’s root ball when planting. Planting the tree a little above ground level can help avoid water collecting around the base, which can lead to root rot, which is really bad news for our olive buddies.
Taking Good Care of Your Olive Tree
It’s time to consider maintenance once your olive tree has established itself. Once established, olives require very little care, which is one of their many wonderful qualities. Here are some pointers to keep them content:
Watering: Young olive trees require regular irrigation, especially during dry seasons, while mature plants can withstand periods of drought.
Feeding: To promote healthy growth and fruiting, fertilise your olive tree with a balanced blend in the spring.
Pruning: In order to maintain the shape of your tree and promote fruit output, pruning is necessary. When there is no longer a chance of frost, try to prune in late spring or early summer.
Protection from frost (something I have never considered) Although olive trees are hardy, young trees may require protection from the cold. During especially cold temperatures, bring them inside or wrap them in horticultural fleece.As I have said, I haven’t done this yet ! However, my five olive trees have all lost all their leaves during the last 2024 winter. Possibly because we had long cold spells.
This is the second time they have done this! I may think about not pruning them like I always do after the summer growth. Incidentally, they always grow a full head of leaves during the summer months.
How to Gather Your Own Olives (if your lucky !)
The exciting part is about to begin: gathering your own olives! Olives ripen in the UK, typically in October. When their colour changes from green to a purplish-black hue, you will know they are ready. Harvest by hand with caution, then savour the results of your effort.
This is something that has never happened to me yet. As a result, I believe that your chances of flowering and then berries increase the further south you live in the UK.
A Small Dollop of Regional Character
Grown here in Mirfield, a town renowned for its hard work ethic and breathtaking scenery, olive trees may give your yard a hint of the exotic. Imagine sipping tea on your lawn in the shade of olive trees that remind you of sunny Mediterranean vacations. It’s a lovely contrast that combines the appeal of the world with local tenacity.
In summary
Thus, cultivating olive trees in the UK can be a fulfilling experience for everyone interested in taking on new tasks, regardless of gardening skill level. It’s an opportunity to reconnect with nature, delight your senses, and maybe even show off your gardening skills to your neighbours. A Mirfield olive grove of your very own could be within reach with a little perseverance, love, and care. Let’s toast to infusing our British gardens with a hint of the Mediterranean!
https://hydroponicsinfo.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/planters-2-300x300.jpg00Eric Robertshttps://hydroponicsinfo.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/planters-2-300x300.jpgEric Roberts2024-06-29 12:06:122024-06-29 15:29:21Growing Olive Trees in Yorkshire
Inventive Planters & Garden Ornaments: From Log Burning Stoves to Old Tyres
Greetings, fellow horticulturists and garden aficionados! I can’t wait to explore the incredibly creative world of planters and garden accessories today. A lovely garden is an artist’s canvas, and nothing compares to putting your own stamp on it with some unusual and eccentric garden accents. Let’s investigate how commonplace items can become the focal points of your garden, from the conventional to the unusual.
Old tyres To begin with, vintage tyres are a classic. These amazing rubber objects are great for bringing some colour and originality into any yard. You can create visually striking planters for flowers and herbs by painting them in vibrant, upbeat colours and stacking them.
They work very well to build raised vegetable gardens. Not only are they adaptable, but recycling old tyres also benefits the environment—talk about a win-win situation!
Boots Wellington Let’s talk about those vintage Wellington boots next. Why not transform them into adorable planters instead of throwing them out? Just add potting soil to them and plant your favourite tiny shrubs or flowers. They hang on fences or can just sit quaintly beside your garden path, adding a wonderful, whimsical touch to any landscape.
Try any old thing ?
Broken teacups and ceramic pots Why not use cracked teacups and ceramic pots for a hint of elegance? For tiny plants, such as succulents, these can be excellent. Arrange them in a cluster for a charming, cottage-garden aesthetic. Every pot or cup has the potential to transform into a tiny garden scene, telling a tale in every garden nook.
Wooden Pallets and Crates Pallets and wooden crates are very popular because of their rustic appeal. You can paint them to fit the theme of your garden or use them just as is. As your garden develops and changes, crates make great modular planters that can be stacked and reconfigured. Vertical gardens made from pallets are ideal for people with limited space.
A vintage wood-burning stove Finally, an antique log-burning stove is a personal favourite of mine that I have had the pleasure of experimenting with in my own garden.
Repurposed as a planter, this strong, solid building boasts a bright array of flowers and ivies that burst out of its open door, adding a rustic yet endearing touch. It is the ideal year-round focal point for the garden because of its sturdy construction that withstands the weather.
Bicycles: You may make eye-catching garden ornaments out of old bicycles. Use the basket and even the frame as planters when you park one in your garden. This gives it a creative twist and will definitely pique visitors’ interest.
Sinks and Bathtubs Lastly, we shouldn’t ignore the outdated washbasin or bathtub. These can be used to create substantial, long-lasting planters that are ideal for a range of plants, including dense ferns and an entire herb garden. They also pay homage to traditional English garden design, fusing practicality with a retro aesthetic.
From tyres to log-burning stoves
every one of these objects may be used to design a garden that not only bursts with colour but also narrates a tale of inventiveness and recycling.
So why not have a peek around
to see what you might be able to incorporate into your next landscaping project? It all comes down to appreciating the beauty of the vintage and giving it a fresh use in your outdoor haven. Cheers to your successful gardening!
https://hydroponicsinfo.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/planters-2-300x300.jpg00Eric Robertshttps://hydroponicsinfo.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/planters-2-300x300.jpgEric Roberts2024-06-05 11:52:492024-06-29 15:51:38Unusual Things as Planters
Faster growth: Plants grown hydroponically tend to grow faster than those grown in soil. They receive a constant supply of nutrients and water.
Increased yield: Because plants grow faster and have access to a consistent supply of nutrients. They tend to produce more fruit or vegetables when grown hydroponically.
No soil required: Hydroponics allows you to grow plants without the use of soil.Which can be beneficial if you have poor soil quality or limited space.
Reduced pest and disease issues: hydroponics systems are closed and controlled environments. There is a reduced risk of pests and diseases compared to soil-based gardening.
Water conservation: hydroponic systems are more efficient with water usage. Because the water is recirculated and not lost to evaporation or absorption into the soil.
Nutrient control: In a hydroponics system, you have complete control over the nutrients. That your plants receive. allowing you to customise the nutrients for specific plants and optimise their growth.
No weeding: Because hydroponics systems do not use soil, there is no need to worry about weeds.
Year-round gardening: With a controlled hydroponics system, you can grow plants year-round regardless of the outdoor climate.
Space-efficient: Hydroponics systems can be set up in a small space. Making them a great option for urban gardening or for those with limited outdoor space.
Environmental benefits: hydroponics systems have a smaller environmental footprint. compared to traditional agriculture because they use fewer resources and produce less waste.
Hydroponics is a method of growing plants using nutrient-rich water instead of soil.
Lettuce: Lettuce is a great plant to start with because it grows quickly and is relatively easy to care for. You can grow lettuce in a variety of hydroponic systems. including nutrient film technique (NFT) systems and deep water culture (DWC) systems.
It can be an efficient and sustainable way to grow a wide variety of plants. and it’s a great option for beginners because it’s relatively easy to set up and maintain. Here are a few ideas for beginners: So looking to get started with hydroponics:
Herbs: Basil, parsley, and cilantro are all popular herbs that are easy to grow hydroponically. They can be grown in a variety of systems. Including aeroponics and drip systems.
Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a more challenging plant to grow hydroponically. but they can be a rewarding choice for beginners who are willing to put in the extra effort. They require a lot of light and nutrients, so it’s important to choose a system that can provide these things.
Strawberries: Strawberries are another challenging but rewarding choice for hydroponic beginners. They require a lot of light and nutrients, as well as a well-ventilated growing space.
Salad leafs-
Lettuce: Lettuce is a great plant to start with because it grows quickly and is relatively easy to care for. You can grow lettuce in a variety of hydroponic systems. including nutrient film technique (NFT) systems and deep water culture (DWC) systems.
It can be an efficient and sustainable way to grow a wide variety of plants, and it’s a great option for beginners. because it’s relatively easy to set up and maintain. Here are a few ideas for beginners: Of course, looking to get started with hydroponics:
Leafy greens: Kale, spinach, and other leafy greens are easy to grow hydroponically. So, it can be grown in a variety of systems. They are a great choice for beginners. because they are relatively hardy and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions.
It’s important to do your research
Choose the right plants for your hydroponic system. Make sure to consider factors like the size and type of your system. the amount of light and nutrients your plants will need, and the space and resources you have available. With proper planning and care, you can have a successful hydroponic garden in no time!
