Growing
These 25 Houseplants Are Built To Thrive In Dark And Humid Bathrooms
IN THIS GUIDE 1) Air Plant 2) Asparagus Fern 3) Aspidistra 4) Azalea 5) Begonia 6) Bird’s Nest Fern 7) Bromeliad 8) Chinese Evergreen 9) Croton 10) Dendrobium Orchid 11) Dragon Tree 12) Devil’s Ivy 13) Lucky Bamboo 14) Maidenhair Fern 15) Majesty Palm 16) Marble Queen Pothos 17) Monstera 18) Peace Lily 19) Philodendron 20) Purple Shamrock 21) Fiddle-Leaf Fig 22) Snake Plant 23) Spider Plant 24) String Of Turtles 25) ZZ Plant References A well-chosen house plant can be the perfect way to add some energy, intrigue and character to a bathroom. Not only are they great at brightening up the place, but they are also an excellent method of removing airborne contaminants from such an enclosed environment, to boot. While the heat and humidity of the bathroom isn’t ideal for all plants, there are certain species which will positively flourish in those conditions. Nonetheless, you should still watch out for signs of root rot or powdery mildew, which are common afflictions in near-constant moisture.1 “Managing and coping with humidity is the key for happy bathroom plants,” says Peter Lickorish, a Lecturer in Horticulture. “If the humidity is too low, leaves will often show crisping and wilting, whereas humidity that is too high tends to cause fungal problems and rot. “Fungus gnats may also become a problem, for which there are sticky traps and nematodes.” At the same time, light is a basic requirement for almost all flora, but certain cultivars are better adapted to deal with a dearth of it than others. Indeed, fluorescent lighting can even supplement the needs of some plant types. With that in mind, here are 25 species best suited to the dark and humid environs of a bathroom. 1) Air Plant BOTANICAL NAME: Tillandsia spp. COMMON NAME(S): Air Plant HARDINESS RATING: H1C FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring / Autumn SUNLIGHT: Bright, diffused light WATERING: 1-2 times per week Air plants dispense with soil altogether, so all you need is a frame or wire to attach them to. Positioning them in a bathroom will mean that they’ll usually absorb all the moisture they need from the ambient conditions, as misting on the leaves is sufficient. That means that the only thing you’ll have to supply them with is sunlight, so placing your air plant on the sill of a frosted glass window should suffice. Failing that, the fluorescence given off by artificial lighting should be enough of a replacement to keep these hardy little creatures alive and kicking. 2) Asparagus Fern BOTANICAL NAME: Asparagus setaceus COMMON NAME(S): Asparagus Fern HARDINESS RATING: H1C FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer SUNLIGHT: Indirect light WATERING: 1-2 times per week The sinewy fronds of this attractive fern are the perfect accompaniment to a bathroom environment, especially since it thrives upon a steady supply of humidity. It’s another one that prefers at least some sunlight, so a windowsill location is ideal. Although it looks fuzzy enough to stroke, you should be mindful that it carries barbed thorns on its stems, so keep out of the reach of visitors. 3) Aspidistra BOTANICAL NAME: Aspidistra COMMON NAME(S): Cast-Iron Plant / Bar Room Plant HARDINESS RATING: H3 FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer SUNLIGHT: Indirect light WATERING: Once per fortnight Aspidistras are also known as cast iron plants, which should give you some idea of their virtually indestructible nature. It’s one of the few varieties of houseplants which isn’t fussy about much light at all, making it a great choice for a guest bathroom that receives lower footfall. It can also take or leave humidity levels, adding another plus point to its attractiveness in less-frequented locales. 4) Azalea BOTANICAL NAME: Rhododendron simsii COMMON NAME(S): Indoor Azalea HARDINESS RATING: H4 FLOWERING SEASON(S): Winter SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light WATERING: Twice per week Blessed with vibrant blooms in all shades, from brilliant white through luscious pink and into deep scarlet, azaleas can provide a colourful contrast to the pristine and sometimes impersonal décor of a bathroom. They absorb water through their foliage, meaning they’ll thrive in a bathroom environment and your watering assistance will only be needed when the soil fully dries out. They do require a modicum of sunlight, however. “Moving from warmer rooms to cooler bathrooms in late autumn can help specimens that are less keen to flower,” shares Peter. 5) Begonia BOTANICAL NAME: Begonia COMMON NAME(S): Begonias HARDINESS RATING: H1B FLOWERING SEASON(S): Winter SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light WATERING: 1-2 times per week Because they absolutely adore heat and humidity, begonias and bathrooms are a match made in alliterative heaven. They’ll do best on a bathroom shelf, while opting for a species which is prized for its foliage rather than its flowers (such as rex begonia) is the best way to ensure they cope with limited light levels. Their absorption of ambient moisture should be sufficient in regularly-used bathrooms but don’t be afraid to water the roots gently if they’re looking thirsty. 6) Bird’s Nest Fern BOTANICAL NAME: Asplenium nidus COMMON NAME(S): Bird’s Nest Fern HARDINESS RATING: H1B SUNLIGHT: medium to bright, indirect light WATERING: Every 1-2 weeks Another fern, the bird’s nest boasts bright green foliage and wavy, waxy leaves in large dimensions. As such, it can impart a tropical aesthetic to your bathroom and will respond positively to the ambient moisture after a shower or bath. It does prefer sunlight, but it’ll survive just fine in lower-light conditions. 7) Bromeliad BOTANICAL NAME: Vriesia spp., Ananas spp., Aechmea spp. COMMON NAME(S): Bromeliad HARDINESS RATING: H1B FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer SUNLIGHT: Medium to bright, indirect light WATERING: Once per week Famous for thriving in situations where most other plants would falter, bromeliads produce long-lasting blooms in a variety of soft colours during the winter months. Many of the genera are epiphytic, meaning they absorb water through the air rather than through their roots, which is why they’re such a strong choice in the bathroom.2 However, they do require good ventilation, so leave the extractor fan running after use. 8) Chinese Evergreen BOTANICAL NAME: Aglaonema COMMON NAME(S): Chinese Evergreen HARDINESS RATING: H1B SUNLIGHT: Low to bright, indirect light WATERING: Every 1-2 weeks Humid or dry, bright or dim, the Chinese evergreen is extremely unfussy about the surroundings it’s grown in. Indeed, it’s one of the most adaptable and resilient species out there, so a hot, dark and stuffy location like a bathroom poses no problem for it whatsoever. There are around 20 different cultivars to choose from in the genus and each of them will bring some tropical charm to your bathroom space. 9) Croton BOTANICAL NAME: Codiaeum variegatum COMMON NAME(S): Croton HARDINESS RATING: H1B FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light WATERING: Once per week Crotons are big fans of both excessive moisture and humidity levels, so it’s no wonder they’re often placed in bathrooms in the UK. There are a multitude of broad-leaved varieties to choose from, some of which come in speckled or mottled patterns. However, they do require as much indirect light as you’re able to give them, so near a window is best, while some species can outgrow a human adult in height, so make sure you have the requisite space available. 10) Dendrobium Orchid BOTANICAL NAME: Dendrobium COMMON NAME(S): Orchid HARDINESS RATING: H1C FLOWERING SEASON(S): Winter / Spring SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light WATERING: Every 1-2 weeks Almost any orchid from the 1,500-strong genus will do well in the steamy confines of a bathroom since they invariably prefer a damp environment. However, some of them are less tolerant of dimly lit locations than others, which is why we recommend the dendrobium orchid for those bathrooms which don’t enjoy a south-facing window. “If you have a window, the sill will still be its happiest place,” shares Peter. The pretty blossoms it produces are a delightful addition to any home. 11) Dragon Tree BOTANICAL NAME: Dracaena draco COMMON NAME(S): Dragon Tree HARDINESS RATING: H1C FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light WATERING: Once per week If you have the space to accommodate a tree in your bathroom, the dragon tree is an exceptional choice. That’s because they thrive in humid conditions and don’t mind too much if they’re deprived of sunlight, making them ideal for the steamy and sultry bathroom environment. They’re capable of growing over six metres tall in the wild, but rest assured that potted varieties will never reach such lofty heights.3 12) Devil’s Ivy BOTANICAL NAME: Epipremnum aureum COMMON NAME(S): Devil’s Ivy / Golden Pothos HARDINESS RATING: H1B FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer SUNLIGHT: Medium, indirect light WATERING: Once per week Also known as Golden Pothos, this attractive trailing plant looks best when displayed in a hanging basket at altitude in your bathroom. Its tolerance of low light and high humidity levels means it’s an excellent option in that room of the house, while it will let you know if it’s not receiving enough moisture through browning of its leaves. 13) Lucky Bamboo BOTANICAL NAME: Dracaena sanderiana COMMON NAME(S): Lucky Bamboo HARDINESS RATING: H1B SUNLIGHT: Indirect light WATERING: Once per week This bamboo is highly versatile – not only does it not require bright sunlight, it doesn’t even need soil! Instead, plant it in a container filled with water and pebbles, changing the former every few weeks, and you’ll be rewarded with a supremely attractive specimen that will bring major spa vibes to your bathroom. It can even be shaped into the structure of your choosing! 14) Maidenhair Fern BOTANICAL NAME: Adiantum COMMON NAME(S): Maidenhair Fern HARDINESS RATING: H1C SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light WATERING: Every other day In the wild, maidenhair ferns are often found where other plants fear to tread, such as the fissures between rocks. That’s because they’re capable of soaking up all moisture within their vicinity and they absolutely love a humid environment, so the bathroom is the best place for them. They boast smaller, daintier leaves than some of their counterparts and have a slow-growing habit, meaning it could take years before they reach full maturity. 15) Majesty Palm BOTANICAL NAME: Ravenea rivularis COMMON NAME(S): Majesty Palm HARDINESS RATING: H1A SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light WATERING: Every 1-2 weeks One of the larger options on this list, majesty palms can reach up to 3m in an indoor environment and almost ten times that in their natural habitat. As such, it’s important you ensure you have the dimensions to cater for this tree. Having said that, those who meet its modest needs (consistent moisture, high humidity levels and as much sunlight as you can give it) will be rewarded with a breath-taking addition to their bathroom. 16) Marble Queen Pothos BOTANICAL NAME: Epipremnum pinnatum ‘Marble Queen’ COMMON NAME(S): Marble Queen Pothos / Cubicle Plant HARDINESS RATING: H1B SUNLIGHT: Medium to bright indirect light WATERING: Once per week Sometimes referred to as the ‘cubicle plant’ because of its ability to withstand inhospitable environments, the marble queen pothos will feel right at home in your bathroom. It’s capable of surviving in low-light conditions and although humidity isn’t a prerequisite to achieving its full potential, it certainly won’t hinder its growth. Its trailing habit makes it ideal for hanging from your shower rail. 17) Monstera BOTANICAL NAME: Monstera deliciosa COMMON NAME(S): Monstera / Swiss Cheese Plant HARDINESS RATING: H1B FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring / Summer SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light WATERING: Every 1-2 weeks Monsteras are one of the most common house plants across the UK, largely due to their attractive and instantly recognisable foliage and their hardy temperament. They’re completely unfazed by any sort of humidity and while they will do better when given plenty of sunshine, they’ll cope just fine in its absence. Their versatility makes them a great choice for any room in the house, including a dark and humid bathroom. 18) Peace Lily BOTANICAL NAME: Spathiphyllum wallisii COMMON NAME(S): Peace Lily HARDINESS RATING: H1B FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring / Summer SUNLIGHT: Low to bright indirect light WATERING: Once per week Peace lilies are a perfect fit for the bathroom for several reasons. Firstly, they have a strong preference for locations with high humidity and low light exposure, meaning a spot next to the shower is ideal. Secondly, their iconic blossoms burst forth all year round, adding a touch of class to any room they’re placed in. 19) Philodendron BOTANICAL NAME: Philodendron COMMON NAME(S): Philodendron HARDINESS RATING: H2 FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light WATERING: Every 1-2 weeks Split-leafed philodendrons bear a remarkable resemblance to monsteras, prompting many people to mistakenly believe they are one and the same. However, they’re actually very different plants which belong to different genera, though both will do well in a bathroom environment. But whereas monstera will grow upwards, philodendron tend to grow outwards, so make sure they have enough room to spread if you place one in your privy. 20) Purple Shamrock BOTANICAL NAME: Oxalis triangularis COMMON NAME(S): Purple Shamrock HARDINESS RATING: H3 FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer SUNLIGHT: Medium to bright indirect light WATERING: Every 1-2 weeks Purple shamrocks boast an abundance of triangular-shaped leaves in the deepest purple, which creates a pleasing contrast again the white tiles of a conventional bathroom. That colour scheme is brought further to life during the summer months when the plant will sprout forth a profusion of delicate pink blossoms, while its humidity-loving habit makes it an ideal option for a steamy bathroom shelf. 21) Fiddle-Leaf Fig BOTANICAL NAME: Ficus lyrata COMMON NAME(S): Fiddle-leaf Fig HARDINESS RATING: H1B FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer SUNLIGHT: Bright, direct light WATERING: Once per week A native of the tropical jungles of Africa, the fiddle leaf fig is a plant which loves hot and steamy conditions. Indeed, even the most humid bathroom environments might need to be supplemented with regular misting to keep this critter happy. Though it does prefer some sunlight, it’ll do fine in dimly-lit bathrooms, but you might find that its pace of growth is slowed as a result. Given that it can reach 3m in height indoors, that’s perhaps no bad thing. 22) Snake Plant BOTANICAL NAME: Dracaena trifasciata COMMON NAME(S): Snake Plant HARDINESS RATING: H1B SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light WATERING: Once per fortnight The stiff upright leaves of a snake plant make it immediately recognisable and can add some arresting allure to a bathroom corner, especially if complemented by other trailing or climbing species. It isn’t fazed by stuffy environs and though it prospers best in well-lit rooms, it will cope admirably in conditions others would flounder in. It may, however, lose its variegated colour pattern if not given enough UV radiation. 23) Spider Plant BOTANICAL NAME: Chlorophytum comosum COMMON NAME(S): Spider Plant HARDINESS RATING: H2 FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer SUNLIGHT: Bright, indirect light WATERING: Once per week The spider plant is the perfect choice for a family bathroom. It’s happy in most conditions and will even self-propagate at will, with the tiny flowers it shoots forth in blooming season eventually dropping off and sprouting roots of their own. It’s the opposite of claustrophobic, so plant it in a pot not much larger than its root ball for the best results. 24) String Of Turtles BOTANICAL NAME: Peperomia prostrata COMMON NAME(S): String of Turtles HARDINESS RATING: H1B FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring / Summer / Autumn SUNLIGHT: Bright indirect light WATERING: Every 2-3 weeks Peperomia are delightful little trailing plants which boast turtle-shaped leaves in striped or variegated shades of yellow and green. As such, they make an elegant addition to your bathroom when placed atop the toilet cistern or sink, especially since their diminutive dimensions won’t take up too much space. 25) ZZ Plant BOTANICAL NAME: Zamioculcas zamiifolia COMMON NAME(S): ZZ / Fern Arum HARDINESS RATING: H1B FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer SUNLIGHT: Low to bright indirect light WATERING: Every 2-3 weeks Also known as the eternity plant, this tough customer is forgiving of even the most forgetful home horticulturalists. It thrives in low-light conditions and will gobble up any moisture in the atmosphere, meaning it only ever requires watering if its soil is allowed to dry out completely. References 1. Saalau, E. (2014, February 14). Root Rots of Houseplants. Horticulture and Home Pest News. Retrieved May 2, 2023, from https://hortnews.extension.iastate.edu/2014/02-14/rootrot.html 2. S. (n.d.-c). Bromeliads. Wisconsin Horticulture. Retrieved March 13, 2023, from https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/bromeliads/ 3. Dracaena draco | dragon tree. (n.d.). Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved March 13, 2023, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/6092/i-dracaena-draco-i/details
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26 Vigorous Climbing Plants And Vines That Are Well Suited To Trellis Growing
IN THIS GUIDE 1) Common Ivy 2) Wisteria 3) Climbing Rose 4) Clematis 5) Climbing Hydrangea 6) Honeysuckle 7) Chocolate Vine 8) Nasturtium 9) Star Jasmine 10) Winter Creeper 11) American Wild Climbing Rose 12) Everlasting Pea 13) Virginia Creeper 14) Common Jasmine 15) Hardy Kiwi 16) Multi-Leaved Akebia 17) Kolomikta 18) Boston Ivy 19) Russian Vine 20) Grape Vine 21) Trumpet Vine 22) Potato Vine 23) Potato Tree 24) Hops 25) Crimson Glory Vine 26) Chinese Virginia Creeper References Underneath we present an assortment of fantastic climbers that will adorn your trellis, pergola, or any other structure. Many wonderful climbing vines hail from tropical regions and are tender so we have excluded those from our list, preferring relatively hardy and perennial options. This list is full of brilliant trellis plants for expansive growth that are suitable for British climates. 1) Common Ivy BOTANICAL NAME: Hedera helix COMMON NAME(S): Common Ivy / English Ivy HARDINESS RATING: H5 FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Autumn FRUIT SEASON(S): Winter SUNLIGHT: Full Shade / Partial Shade / Full Sun SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH EXPOSURE: Exposed / Sheltered Though you would almost surely have English Ivy climbing up the side of your two-storey dwelling and not a little trellis, we must start with this plant for the sake of tradition and in recognition of it as a quintessential feature of stately British homes and gardens. All the numerous varieties are hardy evergreens and will grow in any type of soil and in any position with any aspect. Most ivies are not only vigorous climbers but are massive in height and breadth. Those that are not have lovely variegated foliage in greens, golds, yellows, or cream, as Master Horticulturist Colin Skelly explains in more detail: “Many variegated or other-then-green ivy cultivars will send out reverted stems and new growth that reverts to the species type. “This will usually be more vigorous than the cultivar and will outcompete it. “When spotted, cut reverted stems right back to where it arose from the non-reverted part of the plant.” They’re not simply about tradition, the evergreen, broad-leaved, glossy, fuss-free English Ivy is unquestionably a big statement for your garden. 2) Wisteria BOTANICAL NAME: Wisteria COMMON NAME(S): Chinese Wisteria HARDINESS RATING: H5 / H6 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring / Summer SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH EXPOSURE: Sheltered From over a hundred varieties of these very popular twining vines, all are fully hardy at H5 or better, and most are widely available. Take your pick from varieties that grow to only 6m or those that grow to 16m, those that display foliage for the greater part of the year, or go all out with foliage and flowers for one season. They also have plentiful flowers, with lush, pendent racemes in gradated pastel pinks and purples that exude a heady fragrance. If you can provide a wisteria vine with a sheltered spot and with well-drained soil that is kept moist, you can enjoy its soothing charms for up to 20 years. 3) Climbing Rose BOTANICAL NAME: Rosa setigera COMMON NAME(S): Climbing Rose HARDINESS RATING: H6 / H7 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous / Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer / Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; Neutral / Alkaline pH EXPOSURE: Exposed / Sheltered Imagine – proper roses growing over your trellis! Climbing roses are fully hardy deciduous perennials with a few evergreens thrown in. Cultivars range in height from 1-8m. All they need is rich, fertile soil and regular watering, perhaps a bit of training, and they’ll bloom for 4 or 5 months straight. Colours include creams, yellows, reds, and blush and tinged tones, and, as you may expect, the vast majority are sweetly fragrant. Cultivars number over a hundred but ‘Aloha,’ ‘Climbing Handel,’ ‘New Dawn,’ ‘Debutante,’ ‘Alister Stella Gray,’ ‘Climbing Iceberg’ and ‘Etoile de Hollande’ are our top picks. 4) Clematis BOTANICAL NAME: Clematis COMMON NAME(S): Traveller’s Joy HARDINESS RATING: H6 (with variation) FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous / Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer / Autumn (with variation) SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; Neutral / Alkaline pH EXPOSURE: Exposed / Sheltered Clematis are arguably the most beautiful vines but some of these deciduous perennials are clothed in green for fewer than three seasons. These shortish but robust climbers usually produce flowers in the summer while some do so in spring or autumn, additionally or exclusively. All are fully hardy and few have any special requirements. Clematis’ wide-open, star-shaped flowers are very varied in hues and shades, but most are simply stunning and will enhance any garden trellis. They can produce 10-20cm blooms in marvellous tones of reds and purples. ‘Fujimusume’, ‘Comtesse de Bouchaud’, ‘Ernest Markham’, ‘Daniel Deronda’, ‘Niobe’, ‘Prince Charles’ and ‘Perle d’Azur’ are our recommendations – which all have somewhat different foliage and flowering seasons. 5) Climbing Hydrangea BOTANICAL NAME: Hydrangea petiolaris COMMON NAME(S): Climbing Hydrangea HARDINESS RATING: H4 / H5 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous / Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer SUNLIGHT: Full Shade / Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Clay, loam, sand; Acidic / Neutral pH EXPOSURE: Sheltered Plants from three or four genera are informally classed as climbing hydrangea, which works well because they are broadly similar, being woody climbers with brilliant green or dark green ovate or elliptic leaves and bearing types of creamy flowers in the summer. These popular climbers are hardy to H4 or H5. One – Hydrangea viburnoides – is an evergreen, but rises to 8m and another, Hydrangea petiolaris, is deciduous but can cross 12m. Both of these species, as well as the others, are trouble-free, robust, and long-lived plants without special position, exposure, or aspect needs. 6) Honeysuckle BOTANICAL NAME: Lonicera COMMON NAME(S): Honeysuckle HARDINESS RATING: H6 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous / Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH EXPOSURE: Exposed / Sheltered Honeysuckles are one of our top contenders for the best trellis plants going and it’s easy to see why. They rise to 4-8m, are very hardy and are indifferent to position, aspect, and exposure. The foliage is deep, rich green, they bear flowers throughout summer and produce colourful, glossy berries in the autumn. Japanese Honeysuckle, Honeysuckle ‘Graham Thomas’ and Late Dutch Honeysuckle are choice options, producing, respectively, white, creamy-yellow and crimson blooms. The distinctive flowers with their narrow, arched petals and exposed stamens and pistils are so exceptionally fragrant that their scents will waft through half your garden. 7) Chocolate Vine BOTANICAL NAME: Akebia quinata COMMON NAME(S): Chocolate Vine HARDINESS RATING: H6 FOLIAGE TYPE: Semi-Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring / Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH EXPOSURE: Exposed / Sheltered Chocolate vine varieties attain heights and widths of 8m plus, are semi-evergreen, are very vigorous, and are pest-resistant and disease-free. They are all hardy to H6 and are happy in any position, aspect or exposure. Their brilliant green palmate-arranged leaves set the backdrop for marvellous little maroon-chocolate blooms in thick racemes in the species. ‘Shirobana’ has cream and lavender flowers, ‘Cream-Flowered’ has cream and russet and ‘Amethyst Glow’ has purple. All of them have a rich, nutmeg-like aroma. There is further adornment in autumn in the form of delicately-coloured oblong fruits. 8) Nasturtium BOTANICAL NAME: Tropaeolum COMMON NAME(S): Nasturtium HARDINESS RATING: H3 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer / Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun SOIL PREFERENCE: Clay, sand, loam; any pH EXPOSURE: Exposed / Sheltered Most nasturtiums have long blooming seasons and bear beautiful flowers but they are tender annuals. However, one species, Flame Nasturtium, is hardy to H5. This deciduous climber can reach up to 4m tall and bears brilliant red flowers in summer into autumn, and then colourful blue-hued berries. Semi-hardy to H3 and requiring a sheltered spot, ‘Blue Nasturtium’, ‘Yellow Lark’s Heels’ and ‘Ken Aslet’ will display thick rich foliage and an abundance of blooms, each during a different season. Take your choice from, respectively, lilac-blue in spring, sunny yellow flowers in summer, or orange-and-yellow in summer-autumn. Lovely lobed leaves are a standard issue with this plant. 9) Star Jasmine BOTANICAL NAME: Trachelospermum jasminoides COMMON NAME(S): Star Jasmine / Chinese Jasmine HARDINESS RATING: H4 FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Chalk, loam, sand; any pH EXPOSURE: Sheltered Boasting perhaps the most ‘classic’ foliage of all climbers, Trachelospermum jasminoides varieties display glossy, elliptic leaves of a deep, brilliant green. ‘Variegatum’ ups the ante with leaves exhibiting sections and splashes of cream. This cultivar and the species’ flowers are pure white, while ‘Selbra’ has yellow-centred cream flowers. ‘Selbra’ rise to about 10m while ‘Variegatum’ is relatively petite, topping out at 4m. All of these varieties are evergreens that add the bonus of summertime scents and wintertime colours. All are semi-hardy at H4, and they will grace your garden for many years if given a sheltered location. 10) Winter Creeper BOTANICAL NAME: Euonymus fortunei COMMON NAME(S): Winter Creeper HARDINESS RATING: H5 FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH EXPOSURE: Exposed / Sheltered Winter Creepers can shape-shift into climbers, and they make excellent trellis plants because, though they are slow-growing, they are all evergreen and hardy to H5. These plants cover a greater length if grown vertically than they do in length when creeping. All Euonymus fortunei have small ovate leaves and all display some or another variegation in the style of edging or bordering. The species plant’s dark green leaves are dual bordered in narrow cream and yellow, whilst the variety ‘Sunshine’ has a small splotch of green in the middle surrounded by thick bands of sunny yellow. 11) American Wild Climbing Rose BOTANICAL NAME: Rosa setigera COMMON NAME(S): American Wild Climbing Rose HARDINESS RATING: H6 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH EXPOSURE: Sheltered For a backdrop suggesting American ranches and prairies, you can try American Climbing Wild Rose which is quite different from cultivated climbing roses. It is very hardy at H6 and it is a spare, rangy, open-habit plant from 1.5-3.5m in height. The leaves are the most bright, summery shade of green imaginable and are downy underneath. In summer, this species bears copious quantities of 7cm single flowers with big yellow central disks. These blooms fall in the pink-purple spectrum, often lavender. In autumn there is further colour in the form of glossy scarlet fruit: rose hips. All in all, this is a perfect vine for a cottage garden. 12) Everlasting Pea BOTANICAL NAME: Lathyrus latifolius COMMON NAME(S): Everlasting Pea HARDINESS RATING: H7 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer / Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH EXPOSURE: Exposed / Sheltered If it’s floral charm you’re looking for in a trellis plant, Lathyrus latifolius is your vine. These deciduous perennial climbers are quite compact at 1.5-2.5m with a narrow spread of about 1m. Though fully hardy at H6 and H7, they prefer a sheltered spot and a southern or western aspect. Everlasting Pea’s laterally symmetrical lobed flowers are seriously charming and the charm is heightened as they are borne in drooping racemes. ‘Rosa Perle’ is pink-flushed, ‘White Pearl’ is pure white, ‘Red Pearl’ is magenta-pink. Their foliage is a brilliant greyish-green. 13) Virginia Creeper BOTANICAL NAME: Parthenocissus quinquefolia COMMON NAME(S): Virginia Creeper HARDINESS RATING: H6 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Shade / Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH EXPOSURE: Exposed / Sheltered Firstly, Virginia Creepers are designated as invasive non-native species in the UK so care is required.1 Foliage lovers may take the chance, for this climber is all about the leaves, which are palmate with ovate leaflets. ‘Monham’ has marvellously variegated leaves that can vary from entirely green to entirely cream. But it is in autumn that this climber shows spectacular colours. The foliage of P. quinquefolia var. engelmannii turns into a blaze of oranges and even purples, while the species P. quinquefolia produces shiny blackish-blue berries. P. quinquefolia is the biggest at 12m plus, whilst ‘Monham’ is the shortest, reaching heights of up to 8m. All are fully hardy at H6. 14) Common Jasmine BOTANICAL NAME: Jasminum officinale COMMON NAME(S): Common Jasmine HARDINESS RATING: H5 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer / Autumn FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH EXPOSURE: Sheltered Jasmine comes not only in ‘tree’ form but also as a climbing shrub, and it is a really fast grower. What’s more, this touch of the tropics is very hardy at H5. Two options are Common Jasmine and Stephan Jasmine. They commonly grow to about 6m and thrive in any soil so long as it is free draining and moist. As these are deciduous plants, there is nothing on offer in winter, but you get a vibrant mass of foliage the rest of the year, an abundance of flowers in summer and autumn, plus small berries in the autumn. The heady, exotic fragrance in summer is another present from the East. 15) Hardy Kiwi BOTANICAL NAME: Actinidia arguta COMMON NAME(S): Hardy Kiwi HARDINESS RATING: H5 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun SOIL PREFERENCE: Clay, loam, sand; Acidic / Neutral pH EXPOSURE: Sheltered That’s right, Kiwi plants also come as fully hardy climbing vines; species Actinidia arguta. Its kiwifruits are not the fuzzy kind which are found in stores but are smooth-skinned ones that provide a sweeter taste. The reason they are not available commercially is that these perishable fruits do not keep well. Take any cultivar of Actinidia arguta, such as ‘Ken’s Red’ or ‘Issai,’ which are hardy to H5, plant it in a sunny but sheltered spot, and you’ll have lush green foliage on that trellis. It will be decorated with small creamy flowers in summer and in autumn, you’ll reap a bounty of sweet, delicious, garden-grown kiwifruit. 16) Multi-Leaved Akebia BOTANICAL NAME: Akebia trifoliata / Akebia × pentaphylla COMMON NAME(S): Three-Leaf Akebia / Five-Leaf Akebia HARDINESS RATING: H6 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous / Semi-Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn (if any) SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH EXPOSURE: Exposed / Sheltered Making up the name ‘Multi-Leafed Akebia’, we introduce two vigorous climbers, Akebia trifoliata and Akebia × pentaphylla. Both rise to about 10m and are nearly as wide. Both are also fully hardy at H6 and have no position, aspect or exposure needs. They have broad, scalloped light green leaves. Imports from the Far East, in spring ‘Multi-Leafed Akebia’ produce small salver-shaped flowers. Their unusual colour spans maroon, purple and chocolate tones but the mild scent is undeniably reminiscent of chocolate. The hybrid is semi-evergreen while the species is deciduous, but the latter produces additional autumn colour in the form of purple berries. 17) Kolomikta BOTANICAL NAME: Actinidia kolomikta COMMON NAME(S): Kolomikta HARDINESS RATING: H5 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH EXPOSURE: Sheltered An exceptional ‘import’ from East Asia, Actinidia kolomikta has unique foliage. It is a vigorous deciduous vine that is fairly hardy at H5. In the UK it needs a sunny but sheltered spot, preferably with a southern aspect. Growing to 5-6m, it is, unusually, almost as wide. Though Actinidia kolomikta produces big white flowers followed by yellow berries, this vine is about beautiful foliage. The perfectly ovate leaves are emerald green and start taking on whites and pinks from the tip inward. The leaves eventually become white, rose pink, or white-and-pink, producing colour effects that are unmatched by other vines. 18) Boston Ivy BOTANICAL NAME: Parthenocissus tricuspidata COMMON NAME(S): Boston Ivy HARDINESS RATING: H5 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Shade / Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH EXPOSURE: Exposed / Sheltered Boston Ivy and its cultivars are a fuss-free pure foliage play. These deciduous climbers are hardy to H5. The species plant and ‘Fenway Park’ are very robust and fast growing and can exceed 12m. If you want something less massive, try ‘Lowii’, the baby of the family. Boston Ivies have trifoliate leaves except ‘Lowii’ which has palmate leaves. All put on a wonderful autumn show as the foliage turns bright red and even purple. These climbers’ ability to thrive in any position, aspect or exposure is a big plus point. 19) Russian Vine BOTANICAL NAME: Fallopia baldschuanica COMMON NAME(S): Russian Vine HARDINESS RATING: H7 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Part Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH EXPOSURE: Sheltered A massive option that is perhaps the fastest growing climber, Russian Vine can attain heights of 10-12m and a spread of about 6m. It is a deciduous woody plant that is fully hardy at H7. It can be grown in any position or aspect but because of its bulkiness, it is wise to site it in a sheltered spot. Russian Vine, also known as ‘Mile a Minute Plant’, has chordate leaves of a rich green shade. In summer it is simply covered with a profusion of pinkish-white little flowers borne in panicles and afterwards, it bears clusters of berries that vary in hue from pink to dull orange. 20) Grape Vine BOTANICAL NAME: Vitis vinifera COMMON NAME(S): Grapevine / Wine Grapevine HARDINESS RATING: H5 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun SOIL PREFERENCE: Chalk, loam, sand; Alkaline / Neutral pH EXPOSURE: Sheltered Grapevine may not be thought of as a plant you can grow in the UK on a trellis, but a few wine grape vines (not dessert grape vines), such as ‘Boskoop Glory’, ‘Muller-Thurgau’ and ‘Frovit’ definitely fit the bill. Many varieties, almost all frost-hardy, are available as potted plants. The mean height range is 5-10m. If you have a sunny and sheltered location in your garden in England, preferably in a not-too-cold region, a wine grape vine will tick the expansive growth box. Most varieties will also bring ornamental value with bronze and red tones in autumn, and a harvest of grapes – and there’s that homemade wine! 21) Trumpet Vine BOTANICAL NAME: Campsis radicans COMMON NAME(S): Trumpet Vine HARDINESS RATING: H4 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer / Autumn FRUIT SEASON(S): SUNLIGHT: Full Sun SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH EXPOSURE: Sheltered Three species of the Campsis genus are lumped together as ‘Trumpet Vine’ and that’s because they bear the most wonderfully shaped trumpet-like flowers through summer and into autumn. The flowers of the three species are red or orange while those of a sub-species, ‘Yellow Trumpet Vine’ are – you guessed it – yellow. They all have bright green serrated leaves. All are vigorous climbers, they can grow up to 8-12m and all are semi-hardy at H4. Sited in full sun and in a sheltered spot, any Trumpet Vine will bring an abundance of vibrant colour for months on end, with our pick being the vermilion-to-scarlet of Campsis radicans. 22) Potato Vine BOTANICAL NAME: Solanum laxum COMMON NAME(S): Potato Vine / Japanese Nightshade HARDINESS RATING: H4 FOLIAGE TYPE: Semi-Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer / Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun SOIL PREFERENCE: Chalk, clay, sand; Alkaline / Neutral pH EXPOSURE: Sheltered Japanese Nightshade and its varieties are vigorous climbers reaching 8-9m. They are semi-hardy at H4, and require a sunny, sheltered spot with a southern or eastern aspect. They are also semi-evergreen, so the foliage is on display for almost the whole year in most years. This foliage is rich, deep green and the leaves are ovate or elliptical. Japanese Nightshades bear a profusion of five-petalled star-shaped flowers in thick clusters through summer and part of autumn. These are white or blue-tinged in the species, pure white in ‘Album’ and pale lilac in ‘Coldham’. Their sweet, somewhat exotic scent is the icing on the cake. 23) Potato Tree BOTANICAL NAME: Solanum crispum COMMON NAME(S): Potato Tree HARDINESS RATING: H4 FOLIAGE TYPE: Semi-Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer / Autumn FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun SOIL PREFERENCE: Chalk, clay, sand; Alkaline / Neutral pH EXPOSURE: Sheltered So-called Potato Tree is, in fact, a scrambling climber that is not even woody. It grows to about 6m, is semi-hardy at H4, and requires a sheltered and sunny spot. Cultivar ‘Glasnevin’ is very widely available but there is little to choose between it and the species as these climbers are all about year-round colour. They are semi-evergreen and their elliptic leaves are a brilliant green. Star-shaped flowers are borne in thick clusters over a long blooming season in summer and autumn. They vary from lilac to purple and have a complementary yellow centre and there are small yellowish berries in autumn. 24) Hops BOTANICAL NAME: Humulus lupulus COMMON NAME(S): Hop / Common Hop HARDINESS RATING: H6 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH EXPOSURE: Sheltered Hops are deciduous herbaceous vines and are dioecious, which means that male and female flowers are on separate plants.2 Cultivars vary quite widely in height and growing requirements but all are fully hardy at H6. They even vary in their leaves which may be whole, trifoliate, or palmate, though all serrated. ‘Aureus’ has golden-green leaves and can reach about 6m, ‘Prima Donna’ has yellowish-green leaves and reaches about 3m, while ‘Golden Tassels’ has green-gold leaves and is only about 2.5m. All produce pendent, cone-shaped, scented flowers in summer, and in autumn, hops, which are as pretty as they are aromatic. 25) Crimson Glory Vine BOTANICAL NAME: Vitis coignetiae COMMON NAME(S): Crimson Glory Vine HARDINESS RATING: H5 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Chalk, loam, sand; Alkaline / Neutral pH EXPOSURE: Sheltered Crimson Glory Vine is a vigorous option and a massive one, up to 15m in height. The leaves too are comparatively massive at about 30cm. This deciduous vine is very hardy at H5 but it is advisable to grow it in a sheltered position with a south or west-facing aspect. The chordate leaves come into season in autumn showing orange, rust, and red shades, as the climber lives up to its name of ‘Crimson Glory Vine.’ These colours are further enhanced by clusters of little dark blue berries. This import from East Asia is, however, susceptible to several pests and diseases. 26) Chinese Virginia Creeper BOTANICAL NAME: Parthenocissus henryana COMMON NAME(S): Chinese Virginia Creeper HARDINESS RATING: H4 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Shade / Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH EXPOSURE: Exposed / Sheltered Chinese Virginia Creeper is, in fact, a very vigorous climber that clears 10m in height. It is semi-hardy at H4 but this robust option is indifferent to position, aspect or exposure. It has particularly lush growth and is a great choice to create a wall of foliage. Chinese Virginia Creeper has palmate leaves with a smooth sheen of a bronze-green hue, on which the prominent silver-white venation stands out. In autumn the foliage takes on deep, rich tones of orange and red, with further colour supplied by the deep blue berries. It is disease-resistant and generally pest-free. References 1. Virginia Creeper: Ornamental or Nuisance? (2016, April 25). Anoka County Master Gardeners. Retrieved March 28, 2023, from https://www.anokamastergardeners.org/blog/2016/4/6/virginia-creeper-ornamental-or-nuisance 2. Sirrine, R. (2017, September 26). Why are my hops producing male flowers? MSU Extension. Retrieved March 28, 2023, from https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/why_are_my_hops_producing_male_flowers
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Don't Worry About Watering - 17 Drought-Tolerant Plants That Are Natural Survivors
IN THIS GUIDE 1) Artemisia 2) Bearded Iris 3) Black-Eyed Susan 4) Clematis viticella 5) Diascia 6) Echeveria 7) Geum 8) Hardy Geranium 9) Judas Tree 10) Lavender 11) Mexican Feather Grass 12) Pittosporum 13) Russian Sage 14) Sea Holly 15) Sedum 16) Sempervivum 17) Star Jasmine References Water is known as the staff of life, but some plants lean on it less heavily than others. Although precipitation isn’t something that British gardens have traditionally lacked, hosepipe bans during the height of summer are not uncommon.1 What’s more, the onset of climate change could mean that prolonged periods of warm, dry weather become more commonplace in the coming months and years.2 For that reason, it might make sense to select drought-resistant plants to populate your sunny borders and outdoor displays. Not only will they be able to hold up during extended hot spells, but they also mean that you can head off on holiday for weeks at a time without worrying that your garden will wilt in your absence. Of course, they also offer the additional advantage of simply being lower maintenance. For those green-fingered enthusiasts who find the task of individually watering all of their specimens a little on the back-breaking side, or for those who prefer a less hands-on approach, drought-resistant plants can be a godsend. “There is an important difference between drought-resistant and drought-tolerance,” shares Horticultural Consultant Colin Skelly. “The plants in this list are adapted to cope well with periods of hot, dry weather. However, periods of weeks of dry conditions and high temperatures will negatively impact on their health. “In those conditions, irrigation in the early morning or evening will benefit the plants, thoroughly wetting the soil at the base of the plant.” Fortunately, there are a variety of cultivars which naturally thrive in drier conditions, making them an ideal option for any of the above scenarios. Here’s our pick of some of the best of the bunch to inspire your display and keep things colourful, even when the mercury rises and the rain clouds disperse: 1) Artemisia COMMON NAME (S): Mugwort HARDINESS RATING: H6 PLANT TYPE: Herbaceous perennial FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Loam, Chalk, Sand; Any pH SIZE: 1.5-2.5m in height, 0.5-1m spread Not only is artemisia pleasing on the eye and palatable on the nostrils, but it’s also incredibly easy to cultivate, too. The delicate silver foliage provides the perfect foil to almost any other plant in its vicinity and is definitely the star of the show. In fact, some gardeners prefer to prune the unspectacular yellow blossoms which appear in late summer altogether, in favour of foregrounding the feathery loveliness of the plant’s leaves. 2) Bearded Iris BOTANICAL NAME: Iris germanica COMMON NAME (S): Bearded Iris HARDINESS RATING: H6 PLANT TYPE: Perennial FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Chalk, loam, sand; alkaline / neutral pH SIZE: 0.5-1m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread Bearded irises are excellent at withstanding long periods without water, and they’re also incredibly resilient against pests and diseases. To ensure they flourish to their full potential, simply point the rhizome in a southerly direction to prevent its foliage from shading the rest of the plant.3 Doing so will reward you with beautiful displays of distinctive drooping petals which give the plant its name. There are a wide variety of cultivars and colours available that would be wonderous in any UK garden. 3) Black-Eyed Susan BOTANICAL NAME: Rudbeckia fulgida COMMON NAME (S): Black-eyed Susan HARDINESS RATING: H6 PLANT TYPE: Perennial FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer / Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Clay, loam, sand; any pH SIZE: 0.5-1m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread Named for the dark stamen at the centre of its yellow blooms, Black-Eyed Susan is one of the easiest perennials to grow. It will require thorough watering at the time of planting, but once established, it won’t need hardly any irrigation at all. Capable of growing almost half a metre in height, black-eyed Susans are perfect for adding architectural intrigue and summer colour to the middle section of a flowering border. 4) Clematis viticella BOTANICAL NAME: Clematis viticella COMMON NAME (S): Purple clematis HARDINESS RATING: H6 PLANT TYPE: Climber FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer / Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; alkaline / neutral pH SIZE: 2.5-4m in height, 1-1.5m spread Although some species of clematis are more drought-tolerant than others, the Viticella group of climbers are some of the best-performing options in this respect. They’re vigorous and versatile growers that can reach up to five metres in height and can be trained along trellises, fences or any other structural support you have in mind. Both flowers and foliage are smaller and daintier than some of their brethren, but they produce profuse amounts of blossoms over an extended period from midsummer to autumn, making them a great choice for prolonged colour. 5) Diascia BOTANICAL NAME: Diascia COMMON NAME (S): Twinspur HARDINESS RATING: H3 PLANT TYPE: Annual / Perennial FOLIAGE TYPE: Semi-Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer / Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH SIZE: 0.1-0.5m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread Native to South Africa, diascias have traditionally had to deal with far less accommodating climates than those found in the UK. But while they don’t mind working up a thirst, they don’t do too well in extreme cold, so consider moving them inside during winter. Fortunately, they thrive best in containers, pots and hanging baskets, which facilitates their movement no end. Having said that, they will do well in borders if the temperature doesn’t drop too sharply in the colder months. 6) Echeveria BOTANICAL NAME: Echeveria COMMON NAME (S): Hen-and-chicks HARDINESS RATING: H2 PLANT TYPE: Succulent FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Winter / Spring SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Loam, sand; any pH SIZE: 0.1-0.5m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread These stunning succulents come in a range of different shapes, sizes and colours, but all of them will take your breath away with their unusual and inimitable beauty. Take care to avoid touching the leaves when handling echeveria, since the bloom which lies upon them acts as their protection against the strong rays of the sun. 7) Geum BOTANICAL NAME: Geum COMMON NAME (S): Avens HARDINESS RATING: H7 PLANT TYPE: Perennial FOLIAGE TYPE: Semi-Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring / Summer / Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH SIZE: Up to 50cm in height, 0.1-0.5m spread These compact and hardy perennials will appreciate some organic mulch around their base to help them conserve hydration, but other than that, they can do admirably well when left to their own devices. They flower for a lengthy period between late spring and early autumn, so prune them back after the first blossoms die away to encourage a second spurt of growth. They look best when several different varieties and colours are planted alongside one another. 8) Hardy Geranium BOTANICAL NAME: Geranium sylvaticum COMMON NAME (S): Cranesbill Geranium HARDINESS RATING: H6-H7 PLANT TYPE: Perennial FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring / Summer / Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH SIZE: 0.1-1m in height, 0.1-1m spread What’s not to like about hardy geraniums? They’re incredibly robust little plants which can stand up well to drought, pests and diseases, while their prolific blossoms are complemented perfectly by the interesting texture of their foliage. It’s no surprise then, that hardy geraniums are one of the top picks when it comes to sourcing drought-resistant plants for your garden. The award-winning ‘Orion’ cultivar has one of the longest flowering seasons of its ilk.4 9) Judas Tree BOTANICAL NAME: Cercis siliquastrum COMMON NAME (S): Judas Tree HARDINESS RATING: H5 PLANT TYPE: Tree FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH SIZE: 8-12m in height, 4.5-10m spread The origins of this tree stretch back incredibly far, with fossil testing dating it at least 45 million years old.5 Over that time, the tree has learned to deal with an inclement weather event or two. It hails from south-eastern Europe and western Asia and although it prefers the warmer microclimates of those regions, it will tolerate the British weather just fine – with or without regular irrigation.6 10) Lavender BOTANICAL NAME: Lavandula COMMON NAME (S): Lavender HARDINESS RATING: H5 PLANT TYPE: Shrub FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring / Summer SUNLIGHT: Full Sun SOIL PREFERENCE: Chalk, loam, sand; neutral / alkaline pH SIZE: Up to 60cm in height, up to 1m spread Lavender is universally lauded for the enchanting fragrance of its flowers and its calming properties. That laid-back nature extends to its cultivation too, since its Mediterranean roots mean it can handle drought with no problem at all.7 All lavenders are popular with bees, butterflies and other pollinators and their aromatic qualities make them ideal for planting alongside pathways or near benches. Different spreads, heights and blooming periods are available depending on the cultivar in question. 11) Mexican Feather Grass BOTANICAL NAME: Stipa tenuissima COMMON NAME (S): Mexican Feather Grass HARDINESS RATING: H4 PLANT TYPE: Grass FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer SUNLIGHT: Full Sun SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH SIZE: 0.5-1m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread The gently cascading fronds of Mexican feather grass dance gracefully in a breeze, explaining its widespread popularity across the UK. Add to that the fact that it’s extremely resistant to drought and it’s not hard to see why it’s a universal favourite. It works especially well in gravel gardens or at the rear of flower beds and borders. Just be mindful that the seeds have a tendency to be blown every which way by the wind and can propagate remarkably quickly, so be vigilant to avoid an invasion. 12) Pittosporum BOTANICAL NAME: Pittosporum COMMON NAME (S): Cheesewood HARDINESS RATING: H4-H5 PLANT TYPE: Shrub FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring / Summer SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Any soil type; any pH SIZE: Up to 3m in height, up to 1.5m spread If you’re simply looking for year-round cover and colour (without floral blossoms), you can’t go far wrong with pittosporum. It’s highly resistant to both drought and heat, though it doesn’t enjoy colder climes quite so much, so keep it sheltered from bracing winds. There is a range of cultivars to choose from with this attractive evergreen shrub, each offering different shades and shapes of green on their leaves. The P. tenuifolium ‘Victoria’ option features pleasing variegation on its foliage, with newer shoots a delightfully lighter hue than more established counterparts. 13) Russian Sage BOTANICAL NAME: Salvia yangii COMMON NAME (S): Russian Sage HARDINESS RATING: H5 PLANT TYPE: Perennial FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer / Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun SOIL PREFERENCE: Chalk, loam, sand; any pH SIZE: 1.5m in height, 0.5m spread Cultivated since the beginning of the 20th century, Russian sage is a curious case in that it neither hails from Russia nor is it a true member of the sage family.8 It’s likely that it earned its popular moniker due to its use as an ingredient in cocktails with vodka as their base.9 In any case, this incredibly hardy specimen certainly seems as though it has steeled itself with some Dutch courage against the elements. Apparently impervious to excessive heat, cold and drought, as well as high salt content and poor-quality soil, Russian sage bears all its travails with its attractive silver foliage and brilliant blue blooms. 14) Sea Holly BOTANICAL NAME: Eryngium COMMON NAME (S): Sea Holly HARDINESS RATING: H5 PLANT TYPE: Perennial FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer SUNLIGHT: Full Sun SOIL PREFERENCE: Sand; alkaline / neutral soil SIZE: Up to 60cm in height, up to 30cm spread The lengthy tap roots of sea holly make it adept at ferreting out water sources deep beneath the ground, meaning it isn’t fussed about missing out on rainfall or irrigation from above too much. What’s more, the spiky, steely blue of its leaves, topped by spherical cones of blue flowers, make it look almost like an imitation thistle. Its imposing height means it’s an excellent choice for providing a shock of colour to the rear of borders or in front of fences. 15) Sedum BOTANICAL NAME: Sedum COMMON NAME (S): Stonecrop HARDINESS RATING: H7 PLANT TYPE: Succulent FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer SUNLIGHT: Full Sun SOIL PREFERENCE: Chalk, loam, sand; alkaline / neutral pH SIZE: 60cm in height, 60cm spread Sedums are succulents which come in a quite staggering array of heights, shapes and styles. From creeping stonecrops which offer impeccable ground coverage to upright specimens which add levels to your display, there’s something for every type of xeriscaping garden you can think of. Best of all, they’ll flourish regardless of hydration levels, making a mockery of the idea that water is crucial to all life. In fact, some species will even change colour depending on how thirsty they are, bringing a fascinating flux to your outdoor aesthetic.10 16) Sempervivum BOTANICAL NAME: Sempervivum COMMON NAME (S): Houseleek HARDINESS RATING: H7 PLANT TYPE: Perennial FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer SUNLIGHT: Full Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Loam, sand; any pH SIZE: Up to 10cm in height, 0.1-0.5m spread Another family of incredibly resilient succulents, sempervivum makes an excellent companion plant to sedum. They also require very little soil depth or quality to thrive, meaning they can lend themselves well to inventive and eye-catching decorative features like this one. Also known as houseleek, sempervivums really only have one demand that they place upon you: full exposure to sunlight. Other than that, they’ll flourish wherever you place them and however much attention you pay to them. 17) Star Jasmine BOTANICAL NAME: Trachelospermum jasminoides COMMON NAME (S): Star Jasmine HARDINESS RATING: H4 PLANT TYPE: Climber FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn SUNLIGHT: Full Sun / Partial Shade SOIL PREFERENCE: Chalk, loam, sand; any pH SIZE: 8-12m in height, 4-8m spread If it’s a hassle-free climber you’re looking for, star jasmine could be the ideal choice. It will take plentiful watering and some maintenance to get it established and climbing along your chosen trellis, pergola or another preferred support system – but once it has taken root, there’s no stopping it. Capable of reaching 6m when properly supported, the star-shaped white flowers of star jasmine provide a gorgeous focal point from late spring onwards, while its intoxicating fragrance is a delightful accompaniment to the visual display. References 1. Arasteh, A. (n.d.). What can’t you do under a hosepipe ban? Check your postcode to see which rules are in place. The Telegraph. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/0/hosepipe-ban-uk-2022-area-rules-south-east-water-when/ 2. Heat Waves and Climate Change. (2022, July 27). Center for Climate and Energy Solutions. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.c2es.org/content/heat-waves-and-climate-change/ 3. Rhizome | Description, Functions, & Examples. (2023, March 6). Encyclopedia Britannica. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.britannica.com/science/rhizome 4. Geranium “Orion.” (n.d.). Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/137507/geranium-orion/details 5. Judas Tree. (n.d.). Bartlett Tree Experts. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.bartlett.com/resources/tree-species/judas-tree 6. Cercis siliquastrum —The Judas Tree. (n.d.-b). Arboretum Foundation. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.arboretumfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/anderson_judas-tree.pdf 7. Lavenders for Drought Tolerant Gardens. (n.d.). Master Gardener. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://ucanr.edu/datastoreFiles/268-690.pdf 8. Perovskia atriplicifolia | Russian sage. (n.d.). Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/12557/perovskia-atriplicifolia/details 9. The Cocktail Drinker’s Guide to Gardening. (2021, May 19). FrenchEntrée. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.frenchentree.com/living-in-france/local-life/gardening/the-cocktail-drinkers-guide-to-gardening-2/ 10. RHS Garden Hyde Hall. (n.d.). Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/hyde-hall
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8 Ideas From Horticulturists To Support Climbing Plants As They Grow
IN THIS GUIDE 1) Living Plant Supports 2) Stakes And Canes 3) Trellises For Climbing Plants 4) Horizontal Wires On Walls Or Fences 5) Cordon Wires & Frames 6) Cage Supports 7) Pillars And Obelisks 8) Arches, Arbours And Pergolas References Supporting climbing plants as they grow is important – but there are a huge range of different ways to do so. Think outside the box and you can find many amazing and unusual solutions for your garden. Finding innovative ways to support climbing plants or vines in your garden can help you create a garden which really makes the most of the space available. Seeking out interesting support solutions means that you can take your garden into the vertical, as well as the horizontal, and really make the most of every inch. What’s more, by finding new and interesting ways of supporting climbing plants in your garden, you can integrate these plants more holistically into any design and you can create a beautiful garden which is attractive and unique. Supporting the plants in your garden does not involve a large investment. In fact, if you take a DIY approach, you can create bespoke support options for any situation using natural resources or items that would otherwise have been thrown away. This is often the most sustainable approach too. By using natural or reclaimed materials for plant support, you will not only save money but will also be doing the right thing for the planet. To help you understand the variety of options you could consider for supporting climbing plants as they grow, we’ve come up with a range of categories, with suggestions within each category for the different supports that you could consider. So, read on to get some inspiration for supporting the plants you are growing or wish to grow in your garden: 1) Living Plant Supports The first category to consider is supporting climbing plants with other plants. For example, many climbers and vines can be grown up mature trees. Large mature trees can support even vigorous vines, while even smaller trees can provide support for smaller climbers. They might also be grown up or through shrubs or hedgerows. Many vines like honeysuckle and clematis, to give two obvious examples, look wonderful when spreading along a wild hedgerow at the edge of a garden. Annual climbers and vines can also be supported by other plants. One of the best-known examples of this is when corn is grown alongside climbing beans (and also squash) in the ‘three sisters’ companion planting plan.1 In this polyculture, the corn is considered the ‘supporting sister’, providing support for the beans in return for the nitrogen fixation that the beans can provide. Other tall plants, like amaranth or Jerusalem artichokes, can also provide support for climbing beans and other annual climbers or vines in your vegetable beds. Sunflowers are also often used in some areas as support for climbers like cucumbers – but caution is advised as sunflowers can stunt the growth of certain other plants grown close by, so yields of certain crops may be affected. It is not recommended, for this reason, to use sunflowers as support for climbing beans. Another thing to consider is that when planted closely, plants like peas may not require as much support and may, at least in part, hold themselves up, working together. Wide rows of peas are sometimes planted, sometimes with just a string around the sides of the row to stop them from flopping over. 2) Stakes And Canes Sometimes, more complicated and larger support solutions are not required and all that is needed is a simple stake or cane. “When pruning in winter, keep an eye out for material that can be used for staking,” shares Horticultural Consultant Colin Skelly. “Beware of using material from plants that will root, such as willow. “My ideal stakes are coppiced hazel because they are long, straight, strong and look great too.” Individual plants can often be supported with bamboo canes, natural branches or twiggy sticks (like peas, for instance). Often, it will be possible to source materials for these simple supports from elsewhere in your garden, so be sure to look around before you buy anything new. 3) Trellises For Climbing Plants Another category involves creating trellises suitable for a wide range of both perennial and annual climbing plants. Trellises come in many shapes and sizes and can be made from a huge range of different materials. Trellises may be: Fences or other garden boundaries which double as trellises Structures placed against a wall or fence Vertical, free-standing structures A-frame structures V-shaped structures There are, of course, plenty of trellis panels that you can simply buy, but making your own means you can create a tailor-made solution for your garden and for the plants you wish to grow. They can also be made using organic materials from your garden. You can use bamboo or you can make a range of different trellis designs using natural branches pruned or coppiced from the trees and shrubs in your garden. Canes or branches might be held together with screws or tied together with twine. One interesting thing to note is that you might not even have to buy twine for the purpose. Plants like stinging nettles can be used to make your own natural rustic twine for garden purposes.2 You might even be able to create a wattle trellis without any fixings at all. To create a sturdy wattle trellis you will need strong stiff branches to use as upright posts, and flexible branches to weave between these uprights. You can create a dense screen with this technique, or create a trellis with a more open structure. A range of trellis structures can also be made using reclaimed materials. For example, you can make a trellis using: Reclaimed wood/wood pallets Old doors/windows Old plumbing pipes Cattle panels Reclaimed rebar Old fencing/chicken wire Reused fishing nets The structure from an old metal bed or an old headboard Spring structures from an old mattress The railing from an old cot or a piece of balustrade Old wooden handled garden tools An old garden gate These are just a few ideas and there are also plenty of other old items and materials that can be put to good use. It is always a good idea to think about what you might already have lying around before you buy any new support structures for your garden. 4) Horizontal Wires On Walls Or Fences If you have existing walls or fences up which you wish to grow climbing plants on then you might not need to add a trellis at all. Some climbers are self-clinging, of course, and will not need any support as they grow, but for those plants which do require some support, you might simply have to add a series of horizontal wires across a solid wall or fence to tie plants into as they grow. It is important to make sure that both the existing structure and the wires are strong enough to support the plants that you wish to grow, as some climbers are much heavier and more vigorous than others. You also need to make sure that the wires are tensioned so they do not sag over time. If you get these things right, this can be an unobtrusive way to support climbers or wall shrubs against an existing garden boundary. 5) Cordon Wires & Frames Unlike a typical trellis, cordon wires and frames do not have a consistent lattice in the structure. Instead, a frame is used to support trailing wires or strings up which cordon plants like tomatoes can be grown. The frames can support the wires or strings only at the top, and the strings can be secured at the base with tent pegs, or looped below the root balls of the plants when they are planted. Plants are then tied into these vertical wires or strings as they grow. As with typical trellis supports, the frames for cordoning wires or strings can be made with a range of different materials, including natural branches from your garden, or reclaimed materials. As above, the frames can be simple vertical rectangles, A-frames, or a range of other shapes. Since you will have wires or strings hanging down from this frame, you will only need to worry about making the outline of the frame, not a complete lattice structure. If you are cordoning plants within an undercover growing structure like a polytunnel, you may not need to worry about making a frame at all for cordon plants. You may be able to run a taut wire between the crop bars, and suspend the wires or strings for cordoning from that. 6) Cage Supports Another group of ideas involves creating a cage-like structure around your climbers and vines to support them as they grow. This is another idea which could work well for tomatoes which are not cordoned, or other edible climbers and vines, to prevent them from sprawling out too much. Cage supports can be made from old fencing or chicken wire, woven wood or latticed wood structures, for example. There are also a range of other inventive reuse solutions to consider. 7) Pillars And Obelisks Especially in smaller gardens, support structures in the shape of pillars or obelisks can help you make a stand-out feature of climbing plants without taking up a lot of space. These can be very decorative features as well as functional supports for your plants. Of course, there are plenty of options that you can simply buy, but you can also make your own support structures of this type relatively easily. For example, people have used: Bamboo canes or natural branches Woven willow art structures Reclaimed wood Old stepladders Old plumbing pipes The structure from an old garden parasol/umbrella Old bicycle wheels Golf clubs Stacked wicker baskets Stacked reclaimed wire cages 8) Arches, Arbours And Pergolas This next category involves larger decorative structures which can be used to support climbing plants in your garden. Arches are extremely popular for a quaint cottage garden or English garden look. Buying or creating arches over pathways over which roses and other flowering climbers can be grown is a great way to define the entrance to a particular garden space, or to mark the way through from one garden room to the next. Arches can also be created across the top of a raised bed, for example, to grow annual climbers and vines, or between two garden beds to create a walkway between them. Arbours (covered areas with seating below) or larger pergola structures, are much larger DIY projects, but could also be considered if you have some DIY skills. Growing fruiting vines like grapes for produce or fragrant climbers to enrich outdoor living spaces can be a great idea, and these sorts of structures can be good ways to support them. Again, as with other support structures, many reclaimed materials can be used to make your bigger garden projects like these more sustainable and eco-friendly. References 1. Growing Your Own | The three sisters. (n.d.). Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved March 14, 2023, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/grow-your-own/features/three-sisters 2. Family activity: how to make string from nettles. (2020, June 24). Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust. Retrieved March 14, 2023, from https://www.bbowt.org.uk/blog/claire-mcclafferty/family-activity-how-make-string-nettles
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These Are The 8 Best Autumn And Winter Bedding Plants Say Qualified Gardeners
IN THIS GUIDE 1) Ornamental Cabbages & Kales 2) Pansies 3) Violas 4) Cyclamens 5) Chrysanthemums 6) Heucheras 7) Chimonanthus praecox 8) Camellias References Autumn and winter bedding plants are a dime a dozen but plants that provide genuine interest over autumn and winter are not so common. In this guide, we mix classic standbys and fresh original selections as we review eight plant genera or types that are autumn-winter standouts for you to explore and then summarise specific varieties of some of the plants that will provide fantastic autumn-winter interest. Many summer bedding plants flower deep into autumn but there are also established winter-spring bedding plants as well. However, you may not want to be working in your garden in the frigid winter during the hustle and bustle of Christmas preparations and might want to set things up in autumn to take you clear into spring. Fortunately, you can accomplish just that with a select number of bedding plants. So, how to set up your garden at the onset of autumn with bona fide bedding plants whose beauty you can enjoy through to spring without any further garden work, except for the usual maintenance chores? In order to get those autumn-winter bedding plants set up and blooming in autumn, you will need to sow seeds at least by mid-summer. Alternatively, you can buy plugs and plant them in late summer or get potted plants and transplant them. Here are eight bedding plants for your garden this Autumn and Winter: 1) Ornamental Cabbages & Kales You might be wondering why we’ve started off this list of bedding plants with vegetables, but bear with us! First, like regular cabbage and kale, ornamental cabbages and kales are Brassica oleracea varieties and though they are edible, they are not palatable. However, they are genuinely ornamental, not because of their infrequent and plain little flowers, but, for the frilly, ruffled, richly-coloured rosettes of foliage in creams, reds, and purples that bring to mind some of those large stylised artificial flowers. Ornamental cabbages and kales are distinct from one another but both include wonderfully colourful decorative cultivars that grow in those neat and charming rosettes. Though they are usually planted in containers, treating them as bedding plants is becoming increasingly common, and for good reason. At 25-45cm, they just about meet the height profile, have genuine ornamental value, can be tidily mass-planted, and make bold and colourful edging and borders for beds in the autumn-winter timeframe. A couple of frigid nights or even a frost benefits these plants because the temperature fluctuations and dips are what trigger their marvellous colourations. Ornamental cabbages and kales may be grown from seed in mid-late summer or bought as young plants from a nursery and transplanted in autumn.1 Ornamental Cabbage & Kale Varieties Ornamental Kale ‘Nagoya’ features a flower that is densely packed, heavily ruffled and just as heavily fringed. It has a height and spread of only 20cm but it is billed as a bedding plant. Available choices are white, rose (which is actually purplish), and red imp, which is magenta. The outer leaves are a dark greyish-green in all the coloured varieties. All three should last deep into winter and are the best bet for covering autumn and winter. ‘Northern Lights Mixed’ is classed as an ornamental cabbage but it also has properties of ornamental kale, as it is heavily ruffled and has frilled edges. It grows to about 23cm and has a spread of about 40cm. Its ‘flowers’ are rather more open and not as densely layered as some other varieties. Colours include a rich cream, rose pink, and magenta-purple and should take you into January with the right care and protection, and perhaps beyond. 2) Pansies Pansies are the flowering plants one usually sees being touted as first choice for autumn-winter bedding. Pansies are often thought of, correctly so, as winter-spring bedding plants. Most varieties flower through spring, entering summer and some effective re-blooming varieties flower during autumn, go dormant in winter, and flower again in spring. There are even a few varieties that will flower during early or late summer in temperate climes. It’s important to note that pansies grown for winter flowering are sown in autumn but they will not flower in autumn and effective re-blooming autumn pansies will take winter off. In regions of Europe where the temperatures stay within a narrower range through autumn and winter, several pansy varieties can provide running floral interest through both seasons. It is a different matter in the British Isles with sharper climatic changes. In the milder regions of the United Kingdom along the southern and south-eastern coasts, particular pansy varieties should very well flower all through autumn and winter. We suggest the matrix series, the cool wave series, and the nature series to get the best chance of an autumn-winter bloom. Pansies are easy to grow from seed and bear among the most brilliantly-patterned flowers, so it is little wonder they are among the most popular bedding plants for this time of year. 3) Violas Violas are billed almost as much as pansies as autumn-winter bedding plants. Oddly enough, the species Viola tricolor as well as many varieties of violas, bloom from sometime in spring to some point in autumn. However, series and varieties have been developed especially for cool-season flowering and these will reliably give you richly-coloured charming little flowers through autumn and winter across most of the country. Violas have compact profiles and mounding forms that rise to 20-40cm. Their foliage is quite attractive, being of a deep, rich, green hue, sometimes with wavy or scalloped leaves. As for the bilaterally-symmetric flowers, they are tiny knockouts. They are usually in cream, yellow, purple, violet and white tones, and display delightful flecks, streaks, daubs, and gradations. Though Violas’ profile makes them most suitable for edging, consider the lushness of their foliage, the charming, dainty flowers, the colourful patterning, and the floriferous nature of the plant. These qualities allow them to be deployed as bedding plants, especially when you have few other alternatives. Like pansies, Violas too are child’s play to grow from seeds. Though they may not be quite as popular and as well-known as pansies, for autumn-winter flowering plants they are shoo-ins and are hard to beat. In general, they are an excellent choice for UK gardens in the autumn and winter seasons. Viola Varieties Though the mother species for Viola varieties, Viola tricolor, blooms in nature from spring to autumn, Violas have become so associated with the cool season and even with winter flowering that it’s important to consider other varieties.2 The Sorbet series varieties attain heights of 10-15cm and spreads of 15-30cm. These F1 hybrids bloom prolifically, are available in many patterns, in numerous tones of purples, blues, yellows, and oranges, and are scented. Viola tricolor Though they will take part of the winter off in very cold regions, they will bear flowers during the beginning and end of winter. In not-so-cold regions, they will flower sporadically through the winter. The Celestial series varieties, hybrids of Viola cornuta and V. tricolor, grow to 15-20cm and spread to 15-30cm. They are available in yellow, purples, blues, and blush tones in an amazing range of patterns with many of the shades on the gentle, pastel side, rather like heirloom Violas, and are also fragrant. Varieties have somewhat diverse flowering windows so pick the right ones, such as ‘Northern Lights’ and ‘Twilight.’ As either series’s different varieties will perform somewhat differently from each other, it is worth noting that if you mix and match a handful of varieties, you will be certain to enjoy these cheerful charmers all autumn and winter long. 4) Cyclamens Cyclamens are probably an unfairly neglected group of plants and do not rank anywhere in the popularity sweepstakes. They are tuberous perennials that take off in summer. As members of the primrose family, most of them flower in winter or spring, but there are some things to consider before opting for this plant. Firstly, these plants are commonly grown in pots and window boxes rather than in beds, and there’s a reason for that: they’re tiny. They only grow to 10-20cm without much spread, making them a brilliant choice for edging beds – provided you can grow something else in the bed! In the autumn-winter timeframe when few plants will give you much joy, you may as well plump for cyclamens. Secondly, though cyclamens will not bloom in autumn in most regions of the United Kingdom, the foliage is truly attractive in its own right. The leaves are heart-shaped to rounded, are a deep, glazed green, and often have a sheen. In addition, some varieties’ leaves are prettily mottled, whilst other varieties’ leaves are as prettily silvered. However, some cyclamen varieties will produce flowers from some time in autumn, more so in the colder regions of the country. If you’re in the Highlands or the midlands, cyclamens are for you! Once they start blooming, they will carry on clear into spring. Probably the best thing about these plants are the dazzling, vivid hues of their small flowers and the way they keep blooming. So, though it may be unorthodox to grow cyclamens as bedding plants, give it a shot. In the grey gloom of winter, these little flowering plants will light up your garden with intense pinks, magentas, and reds. Cyclamen Varieties Cyclamens are tuberous perennials hailing from the Mediterranean basin through to the Balkans and Iran and mainly flowering during the winter.3 They are sometimes presented as autumn-winter interest bedding plants, and there are two or three varieties that are able to do the job. They grow to only about 10cm so, very frankly, at best they can be used for edging and cannot strictly be considered ‘bedding plants’, but they definitely make excellent groundcover plants. The cyclamen Silver-leaved group bears delightful little purplish-pink flowers all through winter, but not through autumn, although you will probably start seeing them in November. However, these plants have smoky green rounded leaves with a wonderful silvering, like a glaze, and this foliage will decorate your bed from the dot of autumn onward. Cyclamen coum ‘Meaden’s Crimson’ has very variable foliage, though it too will adorn your bed throughout autumn. ‘Meaden’s Crimson’ The heart-shaped leaves may be rich green, smoky green, or mottled. The small flowers are of sedate rose pink to vivid purplish tones, and the pedicel’s colour matches that of its flower. This variety too will take you into spring and although exactly when these cyclamens start blooming is an open question, they’ll start appearing no later than November and you may well get flowers earlier in colder parts of the country. 5) Chrysanthemums Chrysanthemums are very much proper bedding plants that are suitable as the ‘main attraction’ and, furthermore, are very popular autumn options for beds. Unlike many make-do autumn-winter bedding plants, chrysanthemums produce good-sized flowers that are a match for those of any summer annual. They are disk-shaped or salver-shaped, in single or double form, and come in rich and vibrant tones of yellows, pinks, oranges, and reds. Also, the plants very much meet the height and form profile for centrepiece bedding plants. However, there’s a catch. The varieties that bloom in autumn for the most part are tender, deciduous plants that will not make it through British winters. For most varieties to continue through winter, they would need to be grown in a heated greenhouse which would defeat the purpose of having them in your garden bed. In addition to this, the varieties that are frost-hardy or even just hardy perennials bloom in summer or spring-summer. Here again the answer lies in a couple of variables: the particular varieties and your location in the United Kingdom. If you are located in a not-so-cold region in the UK, especially if you’re along the southern and south-eastern coast, and you select your Chrysanthemum varieties judiciously, you’re halfway home. Be sure to put a good layer of mulch around the plants and, if you protect them with horticultural fleece if and when the weather turns particularly frigid, there is no reason that these plants cannot grace your bed with flowers halfway into winter. Chrysanthemum Varieties Yes, we have bona fide autumn-winter bedding plants; these are in the form of three chrysanthemum varieties and they are wonderfully diverse. ‘Paul Boissier’ is a big plant of bushy habit and rises to an impressive 1m, with the flowers measuring at about 5cm. They are semi-double with a rich, glowing orange hue. How far their autumn blooms continue into winter very much depends on your climate and region, whether they are in a sheltered spot, and whether you protect them with mulch and fleece. ‘Nell Gwynn’ is of an upright form and it too reaches up to 1m. It also bears semi-double flowers which are disk shaped and their dusky, chalky pink hue is wonderfully set off by the bright yellow centres. They should take you some way into winter and, the more they are protected and sheltered, the deeper they will go into the winter chill. Chrysanthemum yezoense, or ‘Hokkaido chrysanthemum’, is your confirmed ticket to autumn-winter blooms. However, this plant is only H4 hardy, so you will need to protect it in colder regions and during severe winters.4 It is a bushy perennial and produces a simple flower that very much resembles a daisy, with the standard white petals and a yellow centre. However, it is prolific and bears flowers from sometime in summer clear through to the end of winter. Plant all three and you’re set for both, floral beauty and autumn-winter coverage. 6) Heucheras Heucheras may not be proper bedding plants and do not flower during autumn-winter, but their foliage provides brilliant colours all through autumn and winter that cannot be beaten. These plants are fully hardy, clump-forming evergreens whose prime attraction is, not the smallish summer flowers, but their vibrant foliage. The leaves are attractively shaped and can be lobed, scalloped, toothed, ruffled, curly, or some appealing combination thereof. “One of my favourite Heucheras is H. americana, a large leaved species that has a white flower spike up to 1m high (lots of cultivars also available in autumnal shades),” shares Colin Skelly, a Horticulturist Consultant. “The white veined leaves mature to dark red veining and look great well into winter, although will need a tidy up in late winter or early spring. “As with all Heucheras, watch out for vine weevil larvae, which have a liking for their roots.” Many display prominent veining to the point of marbling and some varieties’ leaves are variegated or effectively bi-coloured. As for those colours, besides greens, they include pinks, yellows, oranges, reds, purples, silver, rust, bronze, and reddish browns. Also, as the temperature changes, the leaves go through various tints and tones so you get an ongoing colour show. Though many varieties are up to 30cm in height, some rise to 50cm and a few even exceed that. In view of this variation in height, you could even potentially design an entire bed with heuchera plants, using them for the centrepiece, border, and edging! Finally, heucheras give you all this with much less care than the competition, as these tough evergreens are probably the easiest to care for in this list. 7) Chimonanthus praecox For something very much off the beaten track, try Chimonanthus praecox, also known as wintersweet. If gardeners sometimes grow what is essentially a groundcover as a ‘bedding plant’ you can grow a 2m tall much-branched bush as a ‘bedding plant’ too – simply site it in a bed right to the rear against a wall. Technically a deciduous shrub, it is effectively an evergreen, as it will give you foliage, flowers, or little fruits nearly all year round, with autumn and winter covered! The rather unusual bell, star-shaped flower has two sets of tepals, enclosing an insignificant inner flower. The narrow, tapered outer tepals are pale yellow and the inner ones are vibrant wine to maroon. These pretty flowers are also very fragrant and last all winter through, but autumn has its own small gifts: the bush produces small fruits that start green and change to a beige shade, sometimes even to a red. Chimonanthus praecox is hardy to H5 so it will do well for you almost throughout the UK, but it should be sited in a sheltered spot and protected in severe winters.5 Wintersweet can become straggly, so pruning and trimming will be necessary. In fact, the right type of pruning will allow you to keep this shrub looking less like a bush and more like a bedding plant – which is what this article is all about. 8) Camellias One may not often see ‘springtime’ camellias billed as autumn-winter plants, but some varieties fit the bill. Camellias are evergreens that can develop woody stems and grow to become little trees. Indeed, some varieties are best suited for this purpose, others are ideal for specimen plants, and still, others are perfect as centrepieces for beds. Our focus is to identify a few varieties that will give you autumn-winter blooms to compete with the best summer flowers. The varieties of choice are all cultivars of Camellia sasanqua, long-lived evergreen perennials of an upright habit. As they develop trunks and most of them attain heights of 4-10m, they are not exactly bedding plants unless you actively prune them for size and shape. You could put a few of the following varieties right to the rear of your bed, where they will provide a nice green backdrop in spring-summer, but will show off their own lovely blossoms during the more problematic half of the year. True, their renowned fragrances will be lost if they’re stuck at the rear of a garden bed, so if you have a bed positioned against the wall of your house, site camellias to the rear of that bed. Camellia Varieties ‘Plantation Pink’ ‘Plantation Pink’ bears large single or semi-double soft pink flowers with conspicuous yellow stamens. It has one of the shorter flowering seasons but will cover at least late autumn and early winter. Among our selected varieties it comes the closest to being a proper bedding plant. ‘Rainbow’ ‘Rainbow’ bears large single flowers that are white with soft pink tinges and flush around the edges with prominent stamens making a yellow centre. It starts blooming in early autumn and continues until early winter at least, growing to be a good-sized little tree. ‘Hugh Evans’ produces rosy pink flowers set off by the conspicuous yellow stamens. Camellia sasanqua It starts flowering late in autumn but also goes very deep into winter, growing to be a small shrubby tree. ‘Narumigata’ bears single flowers that are white with rosy pink tinges and flushes on the edges with bright yellow centres courtesy of the prominent stamens. It has a comparatively long flowering season that covers most of the autumn and most of the winter. It can grow to be a small shrubby tree. ‘Mignonne’ produces probably the finest flowers – they are double form, have fuller petals, and maintain their shapes and forms. They occur in soft pink to rich pink and have noticeable yellow stamens. It starts blooming on the dot of autumn and continues through to mid-winter and this variety too can grow to be a small shrubby tree. References 1. Brassica oleracea | ornamental cabbage. (n.d.). Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved March 10, 2023, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/106078/brassica-oleracea-ornamental-cabbage-wild-cabbage/details 2. Viola tricolor. (n.d.). Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved March 10, 2023, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/19017/viola-tricolor/details 3. Cyclamen. (n.d.-b). Kew Royal Botanic Gardens. Retrieved April 17, 2023, from https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:32774-1 4. Chrysanthemum yezoense | Hokkaido chrysanthemum. (n.d.). Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved March 10, 2023, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/122802/chrysanthemum-yezoense/details 5. Chimonanthus praecox | wintersweet. (n.d.). Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved March 10, 2023, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/29215/chimonanthus-praecox/details
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Growing In Shallow Soil? Try These 19 Plants Recommended By Master Horticulturists
IN THIS GUIDE 1) Azaleas 2) Chives 3) Heuchera 4) Aurinia saxatilis 5) Achillea millefolium 6) Rhododendron 7) Strawberries 8) Butternut Squash 9) Buddlejas 10) Eremurus 11) Hydrangea macrophylla 12) Violas 13) Aloe vera 14) Gardenias 15) Radish ‘Sparkler’ 16) Periwinkles 17) Oregano 18) Thyme 19) Lagerstroemia indica References If shallow soil is one of your biggest gardening woes then worry not: our quick tour of 20 fantastic and diverse plants for shallow soil will leave you having a tough time deciding which ones to grow. It’s true: shallow-rooted plants are very diverse. In this guide you’ll find evergreen bushes and deciduous shrubs, ornate flowers, courtyard garden plants and cottage garden favourites and even a few herbs for your kitchen. “There are many options for shallow soil, but bear in mind that in prolonged hot, dry weather, the most tolerant of shallow soil plants will succumb to water stress,” shares Horticultural Consultant Colin Skelly. “I use a weeper hose for areas of shallow soil that are planted, with moisture sensors if possible to ensure that moisture levels are replenished when needed.” We have indicated the approximate depth of the soil that is needed for many or most varieties of these plants and are conservative in our numbers, preferring to err on the high side rather than the low! We hope you’ll be spoilt for choice with this guide. 1) Azaleas BOTANICAL NAME: Rhododendron spp. REQUIRED DEPTH: 30cm HARDINESS RATING: H7 SOIL: Humus-rich; acidic / neutral pH SUNLIGHT: Partial shade / Full sun FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous / Evergreen FLOWERING PERIOD(S): Spring Gorgeous Azaleas are rightly admired for being quite unique; these floriferous bushes produce lovely flowers in a marvellous array of hues. However, these bona fide bushes have a shallow though wide root system allowing many of them to be grown in shallow soil. Azaleas have innumerable and varied charms. Some are evergreen to keep you company in the grey of January, others get covered in blossoms in summer and others bloom twice in the same year. A top cultivar Azalea bush in full bloom is verily a sight to behold. Azaleas can have delicately-freckled snow-white blooms, intense glows of fiery orange, big funnel-shaped flowers or star-faced ones. Many of them have wonderful scents and many are bi-coloured. Azaleas are divided into at least 8 groups which include thousands of cultivars. Look around and you’ll find some that will be happy in even 20cm of soil. 2) Chives BOTANICAL NAME: Allium schoenoprasum REQUIRED DEPTH: 8cm HARDINESS RATING: H6 SOIL: Any type; Acidic / alkaline / neutral Ph SUNLIGHT:Full sun / Partial shade FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen FLOWERING PERIOD(S): Summer Though a few varieties have roots up to 30cm, which is certainly shallow, common chives have ultra-shallow bulb roots that reach no more than 8cm. So, if you have very shallow soil, you can grow chives – a triple-value plant. First, chives are excellent pest repellants – and that includes rabbits!1 They are very effective against aphids, Japanese beetles and carrot flies. These qualities make it a very practical plant to grow hard by your precious roses. Next, it bears delightful little globular flowers in shades of mauve and purple, bringing cheerful colour over the spring-summer seasons. Last but not least, chives are a type of herb with a subtle herby-onion taste. It can be used as a flavouring in pot-cooked dishes and as a seasoning on cold cuts. 3) Heuchera COMMON NAME(S): Coral bells REQUIRED DEPTH: 12cm HARDINESS RATING: H7 SOIL: Any type; acidic / alkaline / neutral pH SUNLIGHT: Light, dappled shade FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen FLOWERING PERIOD(S): Summer Among the plethora of Heuchera varieties on offer, many will grow in no more than 12cm of soil. For a truly ornamental plant to need such little soil is a wonder in and of itself. These plants feature an abundance of scalloped foliage that come in colours that can be sedated and restrained all the way to the striking and dramatic. You can get them in chalky, indeterminate tones and dull pewter, and in riveting deep reds and magenta-purple. The leaves are heart-shaped or rounded. Some varieties feature leaves that are wonderfully veined, marbled, and sometimes mottled, in reds and purples. These evergreens that you can grow for the foliage offer a summertime bonus. They put up slender stalks that rise above the leaves, and these bear dainty little flowers on upright panicles. They provide an additional splash of colour in hues typically ranging from soft pink to lipstick red. 4) Aurinia saxatilis COMMON NAME(S): Gold dust REQUIRED DEPTH: 12cm HARDINESS RATING: H5 SOIL: Chalk, loam or sand; acidic / neutral / alkaline pH SUNLIGHT: Full sun FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen FLOWERING PERIOD(S): Spring / Summer Basket of gold is a low-growing, mat-forming evergreen that is content in soil that is not only shallow but poor. For a good month starting in late spring, basket of gold produces a carpet or cloud of cheerful, sunny yellow. This plant is often used in rockeries, which is no surprise because its native habitat includes chasms, mountainsides and similar terrain in the Aegean region.2 Its low-maintenance nature covers not only the soil but also watering requirements. For such a humble plant it has a few unexpected attributes. For one, it’s as tough as nails so this is one plant you won’t need to tend to. Secondly, those cheerful little blooms will bring a heavy, rich scent to your shallow-soil patch and that, in turn, will attract lots of bees and butterflies for additional colour. As for the rest of the year, there’s that brilliant green foliage. 5) Achillea millefolium COMMON NAME(S): Yarrow REQUIRED DEPTH: 20cm HARDINESS RATING: H7 SOIL TYPE: Any type; Acidic / alkaline / neutral pH SUNLIGHT: Full sun FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING PERIOD(S): Summer Yarrow may be considered a ‘weed’ as it grows wild throughout the UK, but it gives depth to our list. This tough plant can flourish in soil that is both shallow and nutrient-poor. Add to that its low watering needs and you have a plant-and-forget type of option. Note that some cultivars’ roots require soil depths greater than 20cm but the species plant is fine in shallow soil. Yarrow works as a delightful ground cover because of its bright green, fern-like compound leaves and it also bears lovely billowing clouds of little creamy-white flowers all summer long. They exude a sweet perfume that you will like as much as the honeybees. 6) Rhododendron COMMON NAME(S): Deciduous azalea REQUIRED DEPTH: 30cm HARDINESS RATING: H6/H7 SOIL TYPE: Humus-rich; Acidic pH SUNLIGHT: Light, dappled shade FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen / Deciduous FLOWERING PERIOD(S): Spring / Summer A bona fide garden plant that is grown mainly for its wonderful flowers and can grow to be a large bush, Rhododendrons surprisingly makes do in soil just 30cm deep. Rhododendrons have spreading fibrous roots but no deep tap root. Though Rhododendron is a huge genus, most ornamental Rhododendron cultivars are shallow-rooted so you can take your pick. However, one or two species are classified as invasive plants in the UK so buyer beware!3 This genus has hundreds of species and many thousands of cultivars to choose from. These lovely bushes are valued for their diversity of flowers, which are often intricate, as well as for their landscaping value. Over spring and summer, Rhododendrons explode in a profusion of glorious colour. Though you’ll find yellows, purples, and reds, Rhododendron ‘specialises’ in more shades of pink than you can imagine. 7) Strawberries BOTANICAL NAME: Fragaria REQUIRED DEPTH: 25cm HARDINESS RATING: H7 SOIL: Any type; alkaline pH SUNLIGHT: Full sun / partial shade FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous / evergreen FLOWERING PERIOD(S): Spring What’s to say about strawberries except that they’re luscious and they can grow in soil only 25cm deep (sometimes even less!). Unlike apples and a good many other fruits, strawberries are considered a treat, so the plants’ ability to thrive in shallow soils is something gardener-parents should surely take advantage of. These universally popular fruits have a nutritional bang eaten fresh off the plant, but it’s healthful even when consumed in preserves and jams.4 To grow strawberries, your shallow soil needs to be well-drained and rich, and these plants need watering and a bit of care. Still, growing strawberries is definitely worth the effort. 8) Butternut Squash BOTANICAL NAME: Cucurbita moschata REQUIRED DEPTH: 30cm HARDINESS RATING: H2 SOIL: Loam or sand; Acidic / neutral pH SUNLIGHT: Full sun FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING PERIOD(S): Summer Squash includes rather different kinds of gourds and not all are shallow-rooted. For example, pumpkins and courgettes have deep roots but if you have shallow ground, you can grow a flavourful vegetable that is technically a fruit – butternut squash. Many squash, including butternuts, grow on spreading, creeping vines. A type of winter squash, butternut allows you to make use of your 30cm deep soil to reap an autumn-long harvest for the kitchen. However, that shallow soil should drain very well, have organic content, and be regularly fertilised. Having derived their name from their somewhat buttery colour coupled with rather a nutty taste, butternuts are considered a warming food for autumn and winter nights. Butternuts are often roasted for serving as a side dish, are tasty ingredients in pastas and make for a rich soup stock.5 9) Buddlejas COMMON NAME(S): Butterfly bush REQUIRED DEPTH: 30cm HARDINESS RATING: H6 SOIL: Any type; Acidic / alkaline / neutral pH SUNLIGHT: Full sun partial shade FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING PERIOD(S): Summer / Autumn Buddlejas number among the most vigorous plants of all. This deciduous perennial has gained fame, good and bad, because of its very special attributes. Let’s address the bad news first. These bushes grow like there’s no tomorrow and a Buddleja plant alone will keep your pruning shears as busy as all the rest of your plants combined. Buddleja also spreads very aggressively, to the extent that it is classified as an invasive weed in the UK and elsewhere.6 However, there’s a reason this shrub is called ‘butterfly bush’.7 It draws squadrons of pretty butterflies because it is very floriferous and bears scented, nectar-rich flowers. Also, those conical spikes and panicles are a sight to be seen and have a lovely array of light and bright tones through the pink-purple spectrum that you can take pleasure in all summer long. 10) Eremurus COMMON NAME(S): Foxtail Lily REQUIRED DEPTH: 20cm HARDINESS RATING: H6 SOIL: Chalk, loam or sand; Acidic / alkaline /neutral pH SUNLIGHT: Full sun FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING PERIOD(S): Summer Eremurus is a plant that will rise to over 2m in height in soil a mere 20cm deep. That’s because its starfish-shaped roots are so close to the soil surface that they are actually partially visible. Foxtail Lily is not exactly easy to grow in British climates nor does it bear showy flowers. The reasons you may opt for it are as distinct as this deciduous perennial itself. Firstly, this is a semi-exotic plant from the arid steppes of South-Central Asia, so it will not be something too many of your visitors will be at all familiar with. Next, it has a very tidy habit. The long, narrow lily-like leaves form a basal rosette from the midst of which tall erect stalks emerge. These are topped with spike-like tapered racemes of tiny yellowish flowers which look furry or feathery from a short distance. 11) Hydrangea macrophylla COMMON NAME(S): Hortensia REQUIRED DEPTH: 15cm HARDINESS RATING: H5 SOIL: Clay, loam or sand; acidic / alkaline / neutral pH SUNLIGHT: Full sun / partial shade FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING PERIOD(S): Summer Garden Hydrangeas have long been a favourite in the UK and it’s not just because of the flowers’ well-known colour-shifting abilities. Garden Hydrangeas make terrific bedding choices and equally terrific specimen choices, and most of them need a scant 15cm of soil. Though not all of the innumerable cultivars in all the classes will grow in such shallow soil, many Hydrangeas will. Hortensia Hydrangeas are deciduous perennials, a majority of which reach just over a metre in height. While they have unusually ‘well cut’ leaves in intense and rich shades of green, the large flowers are even more lush than the foliage. Many varieties flower for three months or more. As for those amusing colour-shifts, that is a speciality of Hortensias. Many gardeners find it interesting to alter the soil’s pH level and watch the blooms shift around the purple axis from pink to blue and vice versa. 12) Violas COMMON NAME(S): Pansy REQUIRED DEPTH: 20cm HARDINESS RATING: H7 SOIL: All types; neutral pH SUNLIGHT: Full sun / partial shade FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous / Evergreen FLOWERING PERIOD(S): Spring / summer / autumn / winter Violas are possibly the gold medallists in the ‘garden charmers’ category. A mere 15-25cm in height and needing about the same shallow soil depth, pansies are usually grown and considered as annuals. As a very general rule, these plants flower from sometime in spring to sometime in summer. However, the countless types and kinds of violas resulting from non-stop floriculture have resulted in varieties that bloom during different times of the year. So, if you mix and match them, you can delight in year-round charming flowers. Some violas provide a relatively more ‘well behaved’ look with predictable colours and sharply-delineated patterns while some pansies are more boisterous, with their broad daubs and splashes of intense hues that bleed into one another. 13) Aloe vera COMMON NAME(S): Barbados aloe REQUIRED DEPTH: 20cm HARDINESS RATING: H1C SOIL: Loam or sand; acidic / alkaline / neutral pH SUNLIGHT: Full sun FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen FLOWERING PERIOD(S): Summer Those broad and thick, strappy leaves are nothing to look at unless the Aloe vera variety is one whose foliage has leopard spots, and even then it may be lacking in ornamental value. However, there are other reasons for growing this awesome plant. One of Mother Nature’s little wonders, this succulent’s great value is in the gel inside those spiky leaves. Many Aloe Vera varieties will grow quite happily in soil only 20cm deep, provided it is the right kind of soil and you don’t make the mistake of over-watering it. Aloe veras are also remarkably generous with themselves when they’re happy – you can have your hands full dividing the offsets (which will make much-appreciated gifts). 14) Gardenias BOTANICAL NAME: Gardenia spp. COMMON NAME(S): Gardenia / Cape Jasmine REQUIRED DEPTH: 25cm HARDINESS RATING: H1C SOIL: Clay, loam or sand; Acidic / neutral pH SUNLIGHT: Partial shade FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen FLOWERING PERIOD(S): Summer / Autumn Gardenias are among the most alluring and sensuous flowers of all and they can be grown in soil a mere 25cm deep. The lengths of Gardenia roots vary both by variety and by size of the plant, but most varieties will have no problem making a home in soil of the specified depth. The problem is that this tender plant sometimes struggles to grow outdoors in UK climates.8 However, a few varieties are hardy to H3 so some southern parts of the UK will suit these plants just fine. Gardenias are beautiful evergreen bushes and those famed funnel-shaped or saucer-shaped blossoms are very large, radiate a tropical appearance, and exude an enticing perfume. On top of that, these prolific bloomers produce flowers nearly all summer and all autumn long. 15) Radish ‘Sparkler’ BOTANICAL NAME: Raphanus sativus ‘Sparkler’ REQUIRED DEPTH: 25cm HARDINESS RATING: H2 SOIL: Any type; Acidic / alkaline / neutral pH SUNLIGHT: Full sun / partial shade FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING PERIOD(S): N/A So that there is no confusion, it is only round white-tipped radishes, and not other types of radish, that will stay healthy and happy in soil 25cm deep (and even less). These types are mainly summer radishes and a few different cultivars are available. Round white-tipped radishes are easy to grow from seed, are quick to maturity and are relatively low-maintenance plants. They can be sown with little expenditure of time and may be harvested on a recurring basis – all they need is fertile soil. While often eaten raw in salads, they impart a delicious flavour to stove-cooked foods.9 16) Periwinkles BOTANICAL NAME: Vinca minor REQUIRED DEPTH: 25cm HARDINESS RATING: H6 SOIL: All types; acidic / alkaline / neutral pH SUNLIGHT: Full sun / partial shade / full shade FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen FLOWERING PERIOD(S): Spring / Summer / Autumn Vincas are wonderfully delightful flowering plants, typical of the ‘cottage garden’ look, while the charming wide-open blooms are akin to wildflowers (which Vinca species are). Vincas may also be mat-forming sub-shrubs or bushy plants but most of them are evergreens. Most are content in shallow soil and all have a few attributes in common. First, they have shiny, deep green foliage that is pleasing in its own right, which also makes Vincas much appreciated as an attractive ground cover. Next, most varieties of these easy-going plants are entirely indifferent to position and do well in anything from full sun to full shade. Similarly, you need not worry about aspect either. As for those small, cheerful saucer-shaped flowers, they are on show for months on end – even up to nine months of the year. They are also borne in profusion. The colours are genuinely eye-catching, ranging from pure white through royal purple to blood red. 17) Oregano BOTANICAL NAME: Origanum vulgare REQUIRED DEPTH: 15cm HARDINESS RATING: H6 SOIL: Chalk, sand or loam; Acidic / alkaline / neutral pH SUNLIGHT: Full sun / partial shade FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING PERIOD(S): Summer / autumn If you like mildly spicy foods or Mediterranean cuisine and you have ultra-shallow soil, oregano is your plant of choice. This herb is quite easily grown from seed and all varieties are hardy perennials. Growing to 15-30cm and having a bushy habit, they are perfect as a ‘filler’ plant. Oregano also has some ornamental value. Among the various cultivars, one or two exhibit brilliant golden-green foliage. However, this herb is primarily about taste, and you can choose one cultivar that is sweetish and only mildly spicy, another that has a gingery, chilli-like kick, and many a flavour tone in between. Regardless of taste, oregano produces a mass of decorative tiny pink flowers for most of the summer and autumn. 18) Thyme BOTANICAL NAME: Thymus vulgaris REQUIRED DEPTH: 15cm HARDINESS RATING: H5 SOIL: Chalk, sand or loam; alkaline / neutral pH SUNLIGHT: Full sun FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen FLOWERING PERIOD(S): Summer Thyme just might be the winner in the ‘bang for buck’ competition where shallow soil goes. Needing a mere 15cm of soil, this plant delivers one of the most desirable of all herbs and is also a fairly decorative plant. This herb is used throughout the UK and other countries in the preparation of savoury dishes, imparting not only flavour but also an appetising aroma. Indeed, the corner of your garden in which thyme is grown will have a clean, fresh scent. Some varieties have deep green leaves that glisten, while others have variegated leaves. All produce oodles of tiny flowers, usually purplish-pink, during summer. Only 10-20cm high, it makes for a lovely ground cover. Best of all, thyme is an evergreen from which the leaves can be harvested year-round. Sow seeds once and then flavour your dishes whenever you want, on demand! 19) Lagerstroemia indica COMMON NAME(S): Crepe Myrtle REQUIRED DEPTH: 30cm HARDINESS RATING: H3 SOIL: Chalk, sand or loam; acidic / alkaline / neutral pH SUNLIGHT: Full sun FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING PERIOD(S): Summer / autumn Crepe Myrtle is technically a woody shrub, though it grows to be a small ornamental tree. There are several varieties of crepe myrtle and most will grow well in soil 30cm deep. Pruned even halfway decently, some crepe myrtle varieties have a beautifully branched, full-ish shape and exhibit slender, shapely limbs. Others are smaller shrubs that have an appealingly unkempt bushy habit. This plant’s bark flakes and peels, providing visual texture. The properly ovate leaves are a spanking bright green in many varieties, and these provide further visual interest come autumn when they put on a colour show in yellows and golds. However, it is the crinkly, ruffled flowers in dense panicles that supply the ornamental ‘bang’. Reminiscent of crepe, they are on show for most of summer and autumn in many tones of pink and purple. References 1. Chives | Diseases and Pests, Description, Uses, Propagation. (n.d.). Plant Village. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://plantvillage.psu.edu/topics/chives/infos 2. Aurinia saxatilis | gold dust. (n.d.). Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/26319/aurinia-saxatilis/details 3. Invasive non-native plants. (n.d.). Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/prevention-protection/invasive-non-native-plants 4. Martin, J. (2022, November 8). Strawberry jam recipe. BBC Good Food. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/strawberry-jam 5. Butternut squash. (2022, November 29). BBC Good Food. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/glossary/butternut-squash-glossary 6. Invasive Shrubs to be Aware of in Your Garden. (n.d.-b). The RSPB. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/advice/gardening-for-wildlife/plants-for-wildlife/shrubs-for-gardens/invasive-shrubs/ 7. Buddleja. (n.d.). Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/buddleja 8. Gardenia. (n.d.). Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/gardenia/growing-guide 9. Radish. (2022, June 9). BBC Good Food. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/glossary/radish-glossary 10. Pollard, K. (2017). Impatiens glandulifera (Himalayan balsam). CABI Compendium. https://doi.org/10.1079/cabicompendium.28766
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These 11 Shrubs With Autumn Berries Provide Incredible Benefits For Wildlife
IN THIS GUIDE 1) Blackberry 2) Elderberry 3) Hawthorn 4) Barberry 5) Sea Buckthorn 6) Elaeagnus ssp. 7) Viburnum opulus 8) Juniper 9) Aronia melanocarpa 10) Gaultheria shallon 11) Beautyberry Where To Plant Your Autumn Berry Shrubs References Shrub varieties with autumn berries can add interest to your garden and many will be beneficial for native birds and other wildlife. There are many different shrubs that you can grow in UK gardens which will look great in autumn, with bright foliage, vibrant berries, or other interesting features. However, gardens can be far more than just ornamental, and in the UK, we are fortunate that we can so easily make our spaces both beautiful and productive. The best gardens are often those which not only look good but also give us food and allow us to forage just a few yards from our back doors. Growing your own food at home does not always need to mean a lot of work. Tending annual vegetable gardens can be hugely rewarding and a lot of fun. Shrubs which have edible autumn berries are often great additions to a perennial food-producing garden and perennial food-producing gardens, once established, can often be surprisingly low-maintenance schemes. To help you start thinking about which shrub varieties with autumn berries you might choose, we’ve compiled this list of a few of the best options for an autumn yield that not only looks beautiful, but can be beneficial to you and the wildlife that shares your space. 1) Blackberry BOTANICAL NAME: Rubus fruticosus agg. HARDINESS RATING: H6 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn One of the best-known forage berries of the late summer and autumn is the blackberry. Brambles might not be everyone’s favourite and are sometimes considered to be a bane for gardeners due to their spiny tangles and rampant growth. However, blackberries can thrive in a huge range of settings, meaning they can be a good choice for problematic sites. While an overgrown bramble thicket might sometimes seem unsightly to gardeners who like things neat and tidy, they can provide an abundance of free food, for you and for wildlife, who will also appreciate the shelter blackberry bushes can provide. Remember, blackberries can be trained and kept somewhat in check and if the spines are too off-putting, there are now thornless cultivars that you can buy. These are a lot easier to care for and tend without having to don gauntlets and feel like you are going into battle. If your garden is of a reasonably large size and you want autumn interest, a wildlife-friendly garden and want to grow your own food easily at home, blackberries are definitely a shrub to consider. They can look good in a somewhat wilder and more natural corner of a space. 2) Elderberry BOTANICAL NAME: Sambucus nigra HARDINESS RATING: H6 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn Elderberry is another berry-bearing shrub which can be so successful that it almost becomes a weed in some settings. However, this is another great shrub to consider for an abundant and wildlife-friendly space. Earlier in the year, the elder blossoms also provide a useful yield, but if you leave plenty on the plant, the beautiful deep-coloured berries will develop by autumn. These berries can be cooked and used in a number of different ways. You can make an elderberry jelly or jam, or you can mix elderberries with other autumn fruits in a range of preserves. 3) Hawthorn BOTANICAL NAME: Crataegus monogyna HARDINESS RATING: H7 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn A well-known native shrub or small tree, the hawthorn is a well-known hedgerow shrub, but many people today are not aware that hawthorns are not only ornamental but also provide edible yields. The young leaves when they first emerge are a hedgerow delicacy, and the berries, or haws, are also edible.1 They are delicious when cooked into jams or other preserves. The fruits can also be dried, ground, mixed with flour and used in bread baking. Hawthorn is a great choice for hedgerows in many settings, even in exposed locations. It can thrive in many soil types, including heavy clay and nutritionally poor conditions, and is unfussy about soil pH. The hawthorn is also known for attracting and aiding a range of native wildlife. “Hawthorn is fantastic for wildlife and hums with it from spring to autumn,” shares Master Horticulturist Colin Skelly. “The autumn berries on the trees in my garden are stripped by birds and the density of the crowns supports multiple nests.” 4) Barberry BOTANICAL NAME: Berberis vulgaris HARDINESS RATING: H7 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring/Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Summer/Autumn There are a number of different types of Berberis, or barberry, with edible autumn berries. These shrubs can be another attractive and useful addition to a garden. There are several named cultivars known for their berries and today, the common barberry is best known as an ornamental garden plant, despite it first being cultivated for its edible yield. Other evergreen types like Berberis darwinii, for example, also have berries with edible uses.2 The berries are very acidic, so most people prefer to use these fruits in jams and other preserves. 5) Sea Buckthorn BOTANICAL NAME: Hippophae rhamnoides HARDINESS RATING: H7 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring FRUIT SEASON(S): Summer Another interesting shrub to consider growing in your garden for autumn interest and its berries is sea buckthorn. One of the notable and useful things about this tolerant shrub is that it is a nitrogen fixer – so can help you maintain fertility in the soil of your garden over time. They can be a particularly good choice for hedgerows or windbreaks in coastal locations. While usually too acidic to enjoy eating when raw, they are often juiced and used in drinks alongside other autumn fruits, or cooked and used in a range of recipes.3 6) Elaeagnus ssp. COMMON NAME(S): Thorny olive HARDINESS RATING: H6 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn Elaeagnus ssp. are other useful nitrogen-fixing shrubs that can also provide edible berries. Examples include E. umbellata, also known as autumn olive, which has red fruits in the autumn months that are usually cooked and made into jams and other preserves.4 Elaeagnus subspecies can make great informal hedgerows, and also work well within forest garden schemes. It is said to increase the productivity of fruit trees by 10%.5 There are also several other Elaeagnus shrubs which fruit in autumn and provide other benefits through nitrogen fixation to the soil and neighbouring plants. 7) Viburnum opulus COMMON NAME(S): Guelder rose HARDINESS RATING: H6 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring/Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn The native guelder rose, or Viburnum opulus, looks wonderful over a long season of interest. As a native plant, it can be a good choice for native wildlife-friendly gardens. The berries can be used in moderation as a cranberry substitute.6 A yellow-berried version ‘Xanthocarpum’ has attractive golden yellow berries in autumn, which last well into winter before being eaten by native birds. 8) Juniper BOTANICAL NAME: Juniperus communis HARDINESS RATING: H7 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn Another native plant, the common Juniper can also bear autumn berries, which are typically used in making gin.7 Even if you do not plan on using the berries, a Juniper bush can also be an attractive evergreen addition to your garden which can keep it looking good all year round. This is a great plant for wildlife too. 9) Aronia melanocarpa COMMON NAME(S): Black chokeberry HARDINESS RATING: H6 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Spring/Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn For forest garden schemes, one other useful autumn berry shrub to consider growing is Aronia melanocarpa, also known as the black chokeberry. This North American native grows well in partial or dappled shade below trees, or in the sun. The fruits are left until fully ripe and are best after a couple of frosts and can be added to jams to help them set.8 Aronia also has foliage with amazing autumn colour. 10) Gaultheria shallon COMMON NAME(S): Shallon/salal HARDINESS RATING: H5 FOLIAGE TYPE: Evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Summer/Autumn Gaultheria shallon, also known as shallon or salal, is another North American native, though it has occasionally naturalised in Britain. This evergreen shrub is another good choice for a forest garden type scheme, as it can grow well in dappled and even somewhat deeper woodland shade. The fruits can be made into preserves or dried and used like raisins. The fruits appear in late summer or early autumn. 11) Beautyberry BOTANICAL NAME: Callicarpa americana HARDINESS RATING: H5 FOLIAGE TYPE: Deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): Summer FRUIT SEASON(S): Autumn Another more unusual shrub with autumn berries to consider is Beautyberry, or Callicarpa americana. The main reason to grow this and other Callicarpa is not so much for eating, but rather for the unusual appearance of the purple berries, which can be highly aesthetically appealing. One Callicarpa with ornamental appeal is Callicarpa bodinieri var. giraldii ‘Profusion’, which bears a profusion of the unusual bright, light purple berries. There are, of course, plenty of other ornamental berry bushes to consider for autumn berries and autumn interest, but these options mentioned above could be a good place to start when choosing shrubs for your autumn garden. Also, don’t forget about other autumn fruits, from rose hips, to crab apples, to sloes and bullaces, that you could consider growing in your garden to add further to your autumn foraging fare. Where To Plant Your Autumn Berry Shrubs Perennial gardens can take a range of forms. Shrub varieties for autumn berries can be integrated into perennial borders, perhaps alongside some perennial vegetables as well as some herbaceous perennial flowers. You can use them as part of a mixed hedgerow scheme along a garden border or to divide garden rooms. They can also be placed around fruit trees in a food forest design with layered planting, which provides many yields while all the plants and other elements work together harmoniously, like a natural forest or woodland. Such schemes can be useful no matter how large or small your garden may be. A single fruit tree and a single shrub for autumn berries can considerably enrich even the smallest of spaces – some can even be grown in a container garden. References 1. Foraging Guide Hawthorn. (n.d.). Foraging Course Site. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://www.foragingcoursecompany.co.uk/foraging-guide-hawthorn 2. Berberis darwinii. (n.d.-c). Plants for a Future. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://pfaf.org/user/plant.aspx?LatinName=Berberis+darwinii 3. Harford, R. (2023, January 27). Sea Buckthorn. Eat Weeds. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://www.eatweeds.co.uk/sea-buckthorn-elaeagnus-rhamnoides 4. Lord, B. (2013, September 9). Untold Abundance: The Autumn Olive. Northern Woodlands. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://northernwoodlands.org/knots_and_bolts/autumn-olive 5. Black, B., Fordham, I., & Perkins, P. (2005, July). Autumnberry (Elaeagnus umbellata): A potential cash crop. Research Gate. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/266614870_Autumnberry_Elaeagnus_umbellata_A_potential_cash_crop 6. American Cranberrybush. (2020, November 26). The Natural Web. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://the-natural-web.org/2020/11/26/american-cranberrybush/ 7. Juniper is the one botanical required for gin to be gin. (n.d.). The GIN Is IN. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://theginisin.com/botanicals-list/juniper/ 8. Bergo, A. (2020, January 20). Simple Chokeberry / Aronia Preserves or Jam. Forager | Chef. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://foragerchef.com/simple-chokeberry-aronia-preserves/
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11 Silver Leaved Perennials You Can Enjoy For Years At A Time
IN THIS GUIDE 1) Artemisia schmidtiana 2) Brunnera macrophylla 3) Caryopteris clandonensis 4) Centaurea cineraria 5) Cynara cardunculus 6) Eryngium giganteum 7) Helichrysum petiolare 8) Heuchera 9) Lychnis coronaria 10) Santolina chamaecyparissus 11) Stachys byzantina References Add some metallic zip and zing to your garden’s display with these silver-leaved specimens. Silver foliage is a striking addition to any garden. Not only are the colours of the leaves unusual and eye-catching in their own right – especially when reflecting the sunlight just so – but they also serve to accentuate brighter flowers in their vicinity. Indeed, this ability to complement the surrounding specimens makes silver and grey plants a highly versatile ingredient in any outdoor display. When selected with an artful eye and placed in juxtaposition with other colour combinations, they can really bring the whole ensemble to life. By opting for perennials over annuals, you’ll also have the added advantage of enjoying the aesthetics of your arrangement for years at a time. As such, any of the following suggestions would make a delightful addition to your back garden, adding some wintry whimsy to spice up its palette. 1) Artemisia schmidtiana RECOMMENDED VARIETY: ‘Silver Mound’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 FOLIAGE TYPE: SEMI-EVERGREEN FOLIAGE SEASONS: YEAR-ROUND As its cultivar common name suggests, Artemisia schmidtiana forms dainty hummocks of slender silver foliage. It grows up to 30cm in height and has a similar spread, making it great for minimalist ground cover. Whether utilised as part of a herb garden, rock garden or standalone specimen, ‘Silver Mound’ has a cushioning appeal that softens the edges and sharpens the appeal of any background it adorns. It’s semi-evergreen and will retain its foliage in warmer climes, providing great contrast to other perennials with pink, purple or red blossoms. As for its own flowers, A. schmidtiana does produce clusters of tiny yellow blooms in summer, but they add little in the way of aesthetic value. Instead, it’s best to prune them immediately to preserve the purity of its cool demeanour. 2) Brunnera macrophylla RECOMMENDED VARIETY: ‘Jack Frost’ HARDINESS RATING: H6 FOLIAGE TYPE: DECIDUOUS FOLIAGE SEASONS: SPRING / SUMMER There are few plants more distinctive than Brunnera macrophylla when it’s in its full pomp. Featuring oversized, heart-shaped leaves that have been unmistakably touched by the hand of ‘Jack Frost’, it’s an immediate crowd-pleaser in any environment. The main attraction is undoubtedly the foliage, whose generous proportions and silver surface edged and veined in green are enough to set it apart from most garden varieties. It does, however, also boast delicate blue blossoms in the springtime, which serve to emphasise its icy appeal even further. It’s a fairly resilient plant which will grow well in most soil types and in full or partial shade, reaching up to 50cm in height at its peak potential. “Brunnera macrophylla is a great choice for a shady spot,” says Master Horticulturist Colin Skelly. “Known for its spring flowers, Brunnera is also a great silver-leaved plant that covers the ground vigorously whilst being an attractive ornamental choice.” This makes it great for brightening up dim or dark corners, or else providing a pleasing contrast underneath taller and more colourful companions. 3) Caryopteris clandonensis RECOMMENDED VARIETY: ‘Sterling Silver’ HARDINESS RATING: H4 FOLIAGE TYPE: DECIDUOUS FOLIAGE SEASONS: SPRING / SUMMER / AUTUMN The blue-green foliage of Caryopteris clandonensis, set off perfectly by its silvery tinge, makes this shrub a head-turner at any time of the year. However, it really comes alive in late summer and early autumn, when the bright blue of its blossoms adds another dimension to its appeal. It can grow up to 1m in height and around 1.5m in spread, making it perfect for positioning at the front of a sunny border. Alternatively, you could choose to play to its strengths and make a focal point of the whole plant, cultivating it in a pot or container in the centre of a patio or balcony. It does appreciate full sun, however, so make sure it has enough access to sunlight. For best results, prune it back ruthlessly once the blossoms have died away to ensure that they return with vigour the following year. 4) Centaurea cineraria RECOMMENDED VARIETY: ‘Dusty Miller’ HARDINESS RATING: H3 FOLIAGE TYPE: EVERGREEN FOLIAGE SEASONS: YEAR-ROUND Depending on the time of the day and the light in the sky, Centaurea cineraria can appear blue, green or grey. Whatever the dominant colour, this sprawling evergreen perennial is remarkable for the woollen texture of its leaves, as well as their eye-catching tints. In summertime, the display is enhanced by the appearance of purple flowerheads that are almost reminiscent of thistles. The bulbous form of the blooms contrasts pleasingly with the finely-divided lance shapes of the foliage, making for an attractive plant for beds, borders and gravel gardens. It does fine in most soil types as long as they enjoy excellent drainage, though it is demanding about the amount of sun it receives. Indeed, it can tolerate milder parts of the UK round the calendar, but those living in areas which suffer from colder winters should transplant it to a greenhouse or conservatory for the duration. 5) Cynara cardunculus RECOMMENDED VARIETY: ‘Cardoon’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 FOLIAGE TYPE: DECIDUOUS FOLIAGE SEASONS: SPRING / SUMMER / AUTUMN Like Centaurea cineraria, Cynara cardunculus enjoys large, thistle-like blossoms of a bright purple in mid to late summer. However, the leaves of the two plants are wildly different, despite sharing the same greyish hue. Unlike its more intricate counterpart, C. cardunculus is defined by foliage which is spiny and spiky in outline and amply proportioned in size. Even a single leaf is capable of growing up to 1m in length! The plant as a whole, meanwhile, can reach 1.5m in height and 2.5m in spread, meaning it forms quite the focal point. Sometimes known as “prickly artichokes” (but more commonly as “cardoons”), these robust specimens are excellent for adding architectural intrigue to wild gardens, rear borders or raised beds. They also make attractive cut flowers, too. 6) Eryngium giganteum RECOMMENDED VARIETY: ‘Silver Ghost’ HARDINESS RATING: H6 FOLIAGE TYPE: DECIDUOUS FOLIAGE SEASONS: SPRING / SUMMER / AUTUMN Commonly known as sea holly, this striking specimen continues the theme of thistle-like flowerheads. However, this time the blooms aren’t purple, but rather blue – and they perhaps look their best after flowering, when the dead blossoms add to the ethereal aesthetic of the plant. As such, deadheading this ‘Silver Ghost’ might be the most preferable strategy in the long term, since it will encourage stronger growth the following year, but it does sacrifice the impressiveness of its appearance in the short term. Given that it’s one of the shorter-lived perennials on this list, it might be best to enjoy its full glory while you can. In any case, it will do best in dry, well-drained soils, since it’s vulnerable to root rot in waterlogged environments. It also demands full sun in order to thrive – but it’s well worth getting the conditions right for the aesthetic impact it brings. 7) Helichrysum petiolare RECOMMENDED VARIETY: ‘Goring Silver’ HARDINESS RATING: H3 FOLIAGE TYPE: EVERGREEN FOLIAGE SEASONS: YEAR-ROUND Helichrysum petiolare is colloquially known as the ‘liquorice plant’, thanks to the faintly aniseed-like fragrance which accompanies it. But quite apart from its aromatic qualities, this trailing perennial is hugely popular for its delicately felted leaves. The furry texture and greyish silver surface of the foliage make it a neutral accompaniment to borders and flower beds. On the other hand, you could choose to foreground its showy qualities by placing it in a hanging basket or patio pot, where the trailing fronds of its stems will hang invitingly over the edges of its container. Small but perfectly formed, ‘Goring Silver’ is a less vigorous or invasive grower than some of its brethren in the Helichrysum family.1 This actually makes it far more versatile and appropriate in a wide variety of settings, offering great flexibility to gardeners. 8) Heuchera RECOMMENDED VARIETY: ‘CAN CAN’ HARDINESS RATING: H6 FOLIAGE TYPE: SEMI-EVERGREEN FOLIAGE SEASONS: YEAR-ROUND The Heuchera genus is packed full of evergreen perennial options in all shapes and sizes, many of which come with a silver hue to their foliage. ‘Can-Can’ is no exception, though it does differ from many of the options on this list due to its interesting contrasts in colour. The topsides of the leaves are the type of deep red you’ll fine in vineyards and wine cellars all over the world, with widespread silver marbling across their surface. Meanwhile, the underside of the foliage is a much brighter purple, creating a pleasing disparity that’s highly noticeable due to the undulating structure of the leaves. Green flowers join the party in midsummer but don’t add much more than the plant offers for the rest of the year and should be deadheaded immediately after dying – or perhaps even sooner if you prefer. 9) Lychnis coronaria RECOMMENDED VARIETY: ‘Rose Campion’ HARDINESS RATING: H7 FOLIAGE TYPE: SEMI-EVERGREEN FOLIAGE SEASONS: YEAR-ROUND A short-lived perennial, Lychnis coronaria only really offers up much in the way of aesthetic appeal during the summer months. However, its loud contrasts and pollinator-attracting qualities make it worth the effort of cultivation. The plant features clumps of slender silvery stems, populated with furry silver leaves and set off by stunning magenta blooms in July, August and September. The conflict between the neutrality of the foliage and the garishness of its blooms makes for a show-stopping display, explaining why it’s popular around the country. Although a fairly hardy customer, it appreciates dryer soil and will produce brighter colours in its blooms if obliged. Those looking to propagate it should collect seeds in September and October, before planting them the following spring. 10) Santolina chamaecyparissus RECOMMENDED VARIETY: ‘Pretty Carol’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 FOLIAGE TYPE: EVERGREEN FOLIAGE SEASONS: YEAR-ROUND Although it’s commonly known as cotton lavender, Santolina chamaecyparissus doesn’t wear the distinctive lilac garb that is synonymous with its family. Instead, this cultivar boasts ostentatious yellow blossoms that take pom-pom form, which stand out like a sore thumb against the powdery grey background of its foliage. It’s that contrast which sets S. chamaecyparissus apart from other garden shrubs, making it an ideal option for when a splash of bold colour is warranted. The blooms aren’t just popular with green-fingered enthusiasts, either; they also bring bees and butterflies to your garden in their droves. As such, it’s excellent as colourful ground cover, or as a gap-filler in spotty borders and beds. It can also do equally well in containers and pots and, given its vulnerability during the colder months, this planting strategy might be preferable to protect it in winter. 11) Stachys byzantina RECOMMENDED VARIETY: ‘Silver Carpet’ HARDINESS RATING: H7 FOLIAGE TYPE: EVERGREEN FOLIAGE SEASONS: YEAR-ROUND A hugely popular groundcover plant, Stachys byzantina is more recognisable by its common name, lamb’s ears. It has earned the moniker due to the fuzzy, oval-shaped leaves which offer year-round interest through their woollen consistency and cosmetic appeal. The ‘Silver Carpet’ variety pictured above is one of the few Stachys examples which rarely flowers, but this doesn’t mean it’s not a hit with pollinators and people alike. Indeed, it’s the woolliness of its foliage which attracts one particular bee more than others, which collects the fine fibres on the surface of the leaves to line its nest. Its evergreen nature, accompanied by its lack of blooms and its interesting texture, mean that ‘Silver Carpet’ is a favourite among those looking to bring mat-forming intrigue to the front of beds and borders. It’s also relatively hardy, so it requires little in the way of upkeep once established, as long as it’s provided with enough sunshine. References 1. Helichrysum petiolare (strawflower). (2022). CABI Compendium. https://doi.org/10.1079/cabicompendium.114715
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Growing Vegetables In Winter? Often They Will Need Forward Planning - Start Here
IN THIS GUIDE Winter Growing That Requires Forward Planning Growing Salad Crops & Microgreens Indoors Sowing Early For Next Year’s Vegetable Garden When you think about vegetable gardening, you might think of this as something that you will do in the spring and summer months. But with the right approach, you can sow and grow your own food year-round. There are even vegetables you can sow in winter. “I think in the UK, there’s too much emphasis on growing summer vegetables,” shares Garden Writer Val Bourne. “I think that the most valuable vegetables I grow are the winter veg. This includes brassicas, sprouts, cabbages, parsnips and leeks because they don’t all come at once – you can harvest them throughout the year.” Gardening and growing year-round is possible in the UK, but you do need to have certain things in place. At this time of the year, sowing will not be outdoors, but rather inside your home. However, if you have planned and prepared correctly throughout the earlier seasons, you could have plenty of vegetables growing in your garden – even in the middle of winter. “Planning is key for winter vegetables as sowing will often be in the prior spring or summer for winter harvesting,” says Horticultural Consultant Colin Skelly. “In a greenhouse or polytunnel, some salad production can carry on but for the most part thinking in winter swings to sowing for the next growing season. A gardener’s work is never done!” While there are certain crops that will survive the winter in the UK, often, some form of protection is used. You might use cloches, row covers, cold frames, polytunnels or greenhouses – but whichever form of protection you use, the concept is the same – to stave off the worst of the winter cold and the winter wet. Even if you only have a windowsill to sow on, there are still vegetables you can grow in winter – both for a winter harvest, and to grow on for the months to come. “Vegetable growing is one of the best things people can do, as it’s like having a pantry in your garden that you can just go and visit,” shares Val. Winter Growing That Requires Forward Planning Growing your own can be a year-round pursuit, but gardeners who want to eat from their gardens all year round need to be forward-thinking. Preparation to have vegetables growing in your garden over the winter months can begin as early as the previous spring. Sowing For Winter In Spring & Early Summer To grow vegetables to harvest in winter, you can sow certain crops in spring and early summer, such as: Brussels sprouts Cabbages (winter types) Kale Leeks Parsnips These hardy winter vegetables take quite a long time to grow, but can be valuable vegetables to harvest over the winter months. They can cope outdoors in winter, and even taste better after having been exposed to frost. Sowing For Winter In Late Summer In July, summer crops will be in full swing, but you should also plan ahead for harvests over the autumn and winter months. From around July, you might sow several other crops for an autumn to winter harvest, though these will almost certainly need some form of protection once the first frosts threaten. You might sow, for example: Beetroot Carrots Chicory / Endive / Radicchio Kohlrabi Land cress Perpetual spinach Radishes Turnips You might even plant some second early potatoes in July for a harvest of new potatoes around Christmas, if you have a protected undercover area to place them in when winter arrives. You may also plan to overwinter crops in your winter garden for harvests in the spring. So you might sow: Chard Spring Cabbages Sprouting Broccoli Each of these can provide a harvest during the traditional ‘hungry gap’. Sowing For Winter In Autumn After the end of summer, in early autumn, there is still time to sow some quick crops (with protection) for a winter harvest. For example, you might sow: Corn salad Komatsuna Mibuna Mizuna Mustard Pak choi Pea shoots Radishes Rocket Winter lettuce You might also sow peas, and broad beans for overwintering in September or October. And you might plant some onion sets, or garlic, in autumn for an earlier harvest of these crops next year. Growing Salad Crops & Microgreens Indoors There are also options, however, which allow you to get started right away. Even if you have not planned and prepared, and don’t already have vegetables growing in your garden, you do not necessarily have to wait until spring to sow, grow and even get a small winter harvest. On your windowsill, indoors, you can grow a range of salad crops and micro greens throughout the year. You can even get started in the depths of winter – and you could harvest small leafy greens in as little as a month after sowing – even less for microgreens. All of the leafy crops listed above for sowing outside in autumn (with protection for winter) can also be sown and grown on a windowsill indoors from a winter sowing. Cut and come again crops will allow you to harvest leaves little and often as required. Even if there are other vegetables in your garden, and vegetables in store, it can still be worthwhile growing a few leafy crops on a sunny windowsill for fresh salads even during the coldest part of the year. I have an unheated polytunnel where I grow a range of crops over the winter months, some overwintering for later harvests, some that I can harvest in the depths of winter – but I also like to grow a few salad crops on a windowsill over winter. My favourites are a cut-and-come-again oriental salad mix, and pea shoots, which I can easily just harvest a little from as and when required without even having to step outdoors. I also often grow some micro greens for a quick and very healthy windowsill harvest. I like to grow cress, and brassicas of a range of types. Microgreens are not grown to maturity but are eaten as tiny sprouts – these micro-greens, and sprouted seeds, can help sustain you over the winter months. Sowing Early For Next Year’s Vegetable Garden As well as sowing quick crops for winter harvests, winter is also the time to think about planning ahead for the next gardening year. Preparing Potatoes For Planting One of the first jobs of the new year is chitting seed potatoes. This is the process of leaving the potatoes in a bright, cool spot for green shoots (called chits) to form from the ‘eyes’ or small dimples on their skin. I will often do this towards the end of January where I live. Sowing Tomatoes, Peppers & Other Warm Season Crops In January or February, I also start sowing summer crops, to get a head start and make sure I can obtain a worthwhile harvest by the end of the summer months. It is a good idea to get started early with the growing season so that you have some healthy plants to plant out in a polytunnel or greenhouse, or into the garden by the time that warmer weather does arrive. Tomatoes and peppers are two examples of crops that it can be beneficial to sow early. Technically fruits rather than vegetables, these are of course key crops grown in UK gardens. However, when starting early with these warm-season crops, you should note that a heated propagator and grow lights can be useful to achieve the best results. If you do have a heated propagator, then aubergines, celery and celeriac are other crops which it can be useful to sow early in the year. Sowing Alliums (Onions & Leeks) From Seed Onions and leeks can also be sown from seed early in the year, and this is a good idea as the tiny seedlings need some time to bulk up a little before they are planted out into the garden. Not that you could not only consider sowing annual alliums, but also perennial onion crops at this time of the year. Sowing Peas & Broad Beans Other crops that I like to get started early indoors are peas and broad beans. I start these indoors in winter before moving them into my polytunnel in early spring, because direct sowings can often fall prey to rodents or other pests. You can also continue to sow quick leafy salad crops in successional sowings so that you can enjoy a continual supply. And from the very end of winter, into early spring, you can also sow hardy brassica crops for summer indoors to harden off and plant out soon after spring arrives. If you plan and prepare for year-round growing, you may be surprised by how much food can be available from your efforts over the winter months. You may also be surprised by just how much there is that you can do at this time of the year. The garden may mostly be ‘sleeping’ in the depths of winter – but even when there are sub-zero temperatures outside, and even when there is frost, ice and snow, there are still ways to grow your own and keep yourself busy.
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