David Domoney’s Gardening Glossary

Also known as Ladybugs, this is a predatory beetle that is loved by gardeners as they will feast on aphids and other insects. In Britain it is reported that there are more than 40 species.

When talking about plants, a lateral is a side shoot growing from the main stem of the plant.

Lawn seed is simply a specific seed mix that you will need to use if you are planning on growing a lawn from scratch. They usually contain a blend of different grass types, its best to check which types it contains, as some types do better in shady/sunny conditions, or are more hard-wearing. Depending on the conditions of your lawn, and how much you use it, you will want a certain blend of grasses.

Layering is when a shoot of a plant develop its own roots whilst still attached to the main body of the plant. Some plants do this themselves, but you can also make plants layer if you want to increase your plant stock. You need to make an incision along the stem of the plant, apply hormonal rooting to the incision and then tie it down into the soil, using a bamboo cane to ensure the tip of the stem is still facing upwards.

When rain runs through the soil and causes the contained nutrients and minerals to drain away, we call this leaching.

The main stem of a plant is sometimes referred to as the leader.

Leaf mould is a great mulch materiel as it contains lots of nutrients for your soil. It is made by breaking down fallen or dead leaves until they have organically decomposed.

A plant that is tall and spindly might be described as ‘leggy’. Sometimes plants grow this way if they aren’t getting enough access to light.

Plants that are members of the pea family. E.g. beans, sweetcorn, peas etc.

Light soils are usually easy to work with because they contain very little clay and are therefore lighter. They often contain more sand and silt than heavy soils, and will warm up quickly. Light soils are improved by adding organic compost, for additional nutrients they may lack.

Lime is a calcium component found in soil, particularly alkaline soils with a pH of 7 or above. Some plants thrive in soil that contains lots of lime, and some plants cannot tolerate lime at all. This is why it is important to find out the pH of your soil and choose plants accordingly, or take steps to alter the pH.

This is used in ponds to stop water soaking in to the soil underneath. It is usually a large waterproof sheet made from rubber or plastic.

This is a type of soil that is considered the best type to have as it is balanced, isn’t too heavy and drains water efficiently. Roughly loam soil will contain 50% and 50% silt and clay.