March: Spring into the growing season
Hi ,
March has finally come around once again and with it all the excitement and colour of the growing season.
This month, you can see me on stage at the Super Theatre at the Ideal Home Show where I will be talking about transforming your garden, and how indoor plants can benefit your wellbeing. Head to my website to check the dates I will be there, and make sure to book your tickets now to secure your preferred dates. I look forward to seeing you there.
Keep your eyes peeled for my new daytime TV show on ITV, Alan Titchmarsh’s Gardening Club, starting Monday 4th of March, and then every Monday at 2 pm until the 6th of May, or catch up whenever you please on ITVX.
I look forward to you tuning in to ITV on Monday!
Happy gardening!
David
Gardening tip of the month
Plant shallots and onion sets
If you enjoy onions and shallots in your home-cooked meals, now is the perfect time to plant them to harvest in the late summer/early autumn.
Choose your variety
There are a few different varieties that are certainly worth growing. Red, white, or even yellow onions are all popular with slightly different flavours. Some varieties are also likely to crop early or later, so consider this too when making your decisions.
Prepare the ground
Your chosen planting site should be sunny, and the soil free-draining and weeded. Plenty of organic matter dug in such as compost or well-rotted manure goes a long way, as these plants have restricted root systems. Also, try to reduce acidity with some added lime in autumn.
Get planting
Plant your sets 2 cm deep in drills, spaced apart 5 to 10 cm. Then, cover them with fleece, as they can make a delicious snack for birds. You could also use a large container if you don’t have any ground space available, ensuring it is 45 cm in width and depth.
Helping them grow
If there are any dry spells, water every 2 weeks, but make sure to stop watering once the bulbs have swollen in mid-summer. Weed between your drills regularly, as these plants don’t compete well, and their limited foliage creates an ideal environment for weeds to grow.
New Video from David
In this latest video, find out the answers to Google’s most asked questions about Gladioli, otherwise known as the ‘Sword Lily’.
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Congratulations! Keep your eyes peeled for other competitions and winner announcements throughout March.
David Domoney is a Chartered Horticulturalist, Broadcaster, and Author. David has worked with a number of the UK’s leading garden retailers as a plant buyer and strategic consultant. With more than 30 years experience, in horticulture, David is as passionate about plants now as he was when he bought his first plant at a village fete.
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