Autumn 2010 Newsletter.

With autumn around the corner, cooler air temperatures and warm soils, conditions could not be better to consider renovating the lawn and planting-up trees, shrubs and plants from late August until the end of October.

Lawncare.

Scarify the lawn in two directions to remove all die-back and thatch that has accumulated throughout the summer months. As the hot summer will have compacted the surface, this should be followed by aeration of the soil. Create holes at 3 inch intervals with either a garden fork, or for larger lawns, with a hollow (or solid) tining machine. Dress the whole area with coarse sand and brush as much as possible into the created holes. This will ensure deeper root growth by the grasses, better utilisation of nutrients into the soil and most importantly of all, better penetration of water into the root zone. N.B. A wet compacted soil will only benefit moss. Overseed the lawn and lightly rake into any sand or soil that has been created from the previous operations. Ensure that the lawn is then fed with one of our long lasting controlled release fertilisers. This will encourage good root development and give excellent colour throughout the winter months. If casting worms have created problems in the past remember to start applying Sulphurlawn Chips or Sulphurlawn Spray-on when the autumn dews first appear. Prevention is far easier than cure.

Gardencare.

Autumn is the traditional time for tree, shrub and bulb planting. Add plenty of coarse sand into the borders and planting holes as this will help the roots to quickly establish themselves. Water and nutrients will also be able to percolate down to the root zone where they can be fully utilised by the plant. Feed with our Nutra-Allround Micro, Nutra-Acid Micro and Nutranatural Micro fertilisers. If the soil is a little alkaline, remember to add a light dressing of our Sulphur Soil chips.

Rosecare.

Bare root roses are normally supplied and planted in late autumn. However, if the soil has softened-up it is still worth preparing the intended planting area in advance. Ensure that the planting hole is sufficiently large enough to accommodate twice the size of the root ball. Add plenty of rotted compost, coarse sand and a sprinkling of sulphur chips. Remember, roses are particularly hungry feeders and will throw a deep root system, which is why preparation is extremely important. After planting, feed with our Nutrarose Micro fertiliser to ensure additional good establishment.

Price Rises.

Material and haulage prices are set to rise in the New Year; plus the 2.5% rise in VAT taking effect on the 3rd January 2011. To beat these rises take advantage of our current 2010 prices and the "Wise Buy" discount offers (10% off 3 items and 20% off 5+ items).

If you advise us of your e-mail address we shall be pleased to keep you informed of seasonal developments and special offers.

I wish you a successful autumn gardening season.

Regards,

Ivor Ludford.