Handy Hints
Plants that provide interest in the month of December
The last of the rose blooms still lingers on, as does some of the summer bedding. The
varying shades of green and golden yellow conifers provide much interest at this time of
year, as does the variegated foliage of various evergreen shrubs, such as spotted laurel
and eleagnus. Berry bearing plants, notably cotoneasters and pyracanthus with their red or
orange fruits please the gardener before the blackbirds finally strip them for tasty food.
Winter jasmine and mahonias provide a touch of yellow colour to the winter garden.
Planting
Clear away the last of the spent annuals. Planting of winter bedding, polyanthus and
winter pansies, can be completed now in the borders. Shrubs and trees can be planted now,
and herbaceous plants can be divided. Biennials such as sweet Williams and wallflowers
should be in by now. Bare-rooted roses and trees ready for planting should now be
available at garden centres.
Garden design
We can design your new garden or redesign an existing one. Our designer will consult with
you to find out what you want from your garden and what will suit your particular
requirements. Detailed plans will be drawn up and include one for planting. Our designer
will consult with you at each stage of the planning to ensure that you get what you want.
Rose bushes and climbing roses
Finish the autumn pruning of roses now.
Fruit trees
Prune fruit trees after leaf fall and spray with tar oil.
Ponds and water features
We will design and construct a new pond or water feature for you, or refurbish an existing
one. All work is carried out by professionally qualified specialists.
Beds and borders
Digging of empty ground is recommended now when weather conditions permit, and include
some compost to feed the soil.
Laying a new lawn or replacing a bad one
This is best done in the autumn because if we have a dry summer you will have to water it
every day. The art of creating a new lawn is in the ground preparation, for it is most
important to carry out the following tasks: firstly, dig over the ground and remove any
roots, large stones and any other debris; secondly, rake level; then consolidate the soil
by repeatedly walking over it with your weight over your heels; and finally rake to a fine
tilth before laying good quality turf. A lawn is meant to stay level, its no good if after
18 months it starts to sink in places, so do make sure the ground is well consolidated
before you lay that turf. To avoid disappointment later on, call in Rob at the beginning.
Fences and sheds
Repair or renew damaged fencing, and re-felt that leaky shed roof. When engaging the
services of a contractor or company, ensure that the work will be properly carried out and
guaranteed. Rob's your man.
Trelliswork
The use of a good trellis can be an asset when positioned correctly within the garden.
Heavy-duty trellis is recommended and the supporting posts should be sturdy and set 2 feet
in the ground with concrete. My advice is, if you are unsure, contact me and I will come
and view your garden and quote for the complete job; this service is free to you.
Archways and pergolas
Why not build an archway or pergola? If it's a natural looking feature you are looking
for, Rob Blann Garden Services specialise in rustic work.
Paving
Patios and paths can be laid now. When engaging the services of a contractor or company,
ensure that the work will be properly carried out and guaranteed. Rob Blann will be
pleased to quote for your patio or path, and even design it if required.
Garden alterations and re-planning
If you wish to add additional features to your garden or want to make other changes, then
consult Rob and benefit from his professional expertise.
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