David Domoney’s Newsletter February 2021

November: Bonfire bonanza

As we take a step further into autumn, the chills in the air mean we need to protect our plants from the increased likelihood of frost. Not only that, but now is the perfect time to take stock in the garden and ensure that all tools and equipment are in good nick ready for use next year. Just because the garden seems quieter, it doesn’t mean there are no flowers and foliage to make a firework of colour this month. In fact, these top ten plants will add some vibrancy to your displays.

With Bonfire Night just a day away, ensure you take steps to celebrate safely. Not only do you need to look out for yourself, children and pets, but also wildlife. Hedgehogs need to be taken care for at this time of the year, so use these tips for bonfire safety.

With the darker evenings comes the realisation that Christmas is just around the corner. So get into the festive spirit a bit earlier this year and join me for my next Facebook Live for Illumination Street on Weds 10th November at 2pm where I’ll be sharing some of my favourite seasonal plants and tips on how to make a fantastic festive display.

This time of year is also the time to get ahead by planting spring flowering bulbs for spectacular displays next year. These are some of the best bulbs to plant in autumn for bursts of colour in spring.

For more garden inspiration, you can also catch me on Love Your Garden on Tuesday nights on ITV and on Love Your Weekend, Sunday mornings from 9am.

Happy gardening!

David

Gardening tip of the month

With the risk of frosts looming, take these steps to protect your plants…

Plants that aren’t winter hardy can be moved into a frost free location, such as a greenhouse, conservatory, porch, or grouped under the eaves of the house.

Materials such as horticultural fleece, straw, polystyrene, and hessian can all be used in the garden to insulate plants from cold and wind.

Place pot feet or old wine corks under containers to raise them off the ground to aid drainage and prevent waterlogging after heavy rain.

Top plants

For fireworks of colour from foliage and flowers, these top ten plants will be sure to put on a sparkling show in your garden this November.

Top job

Keep busy this month with these winter jobs that keep you ahead of the weather. They will keep your garden in good nick, ready for the growing season ahead.

Plants for purpose

It’s not only about winter colour from foliage, flowers and fruits because there is a huge array of winter shrubs that have wonderful fragrances too.

Indoor gardening

Create an indoor garden with these plants that will transform the look of your home and letting you garden from the warmth of your home on these chilly autumn days.

Illumination Street

Illumination Street is back for a third year running, sponsored by British Garden Centres. The campaign motivates the nation to brighten up their front gardens with the spirit of Christmas, with £5,000 worth of prizes to be won.