By Isle of Wight Observer
There has definitely been in a shift in the weather of late, with far more unsettled conditions, some experiencing rainfall on an almost biblical level.
This is set to continue as we head into autumn after a long, dry and often hot summer.
As much as it might be unwelcome at times, our gardens do need the rain, and the rain we get over the coming weeks and months will all go to help our gardens thrive again next year.
As always, there are jobs to be done, with plenty of seasonal vegetables to be harvested still, many of which can be stored or frozen to use through the long winter months. Although many summer flowers have long since faded there is still plenty of colour to enjoy. Dahlias and chrysanthemums enjoy their best month in September but will continue to bloom until we get a frost.
Hedge-cutting can be done now along with giving summer flowering shrubs a prune. Just remember not to prune spring flowering shrubs, otherwise you will lose out on next year’s blooms.
Garden centres across the Island have a fantastic selection of spring bulbs in stock, and now is the time to start planting daffodils, crocus and hyacinths.
If you want to try Christmas-prepared hyacinths, then now is the time to get them planted. They need to be kept in a dark, cold but frost-free place for around 10 weeks to produce flower buds. They can then be moved to a bright location to flower in time for Christmas. Tulips can be purchased but should be planted in November.
It’s also a good time to start planning for next year. Ordering seeds and plants early will ensure you get what you want. Let’s not forget that Christmas is not far away, so what better gift for your friends, family or loved ones than something for their gardens!
Finally, I just want to congratulate all the horticultural societies, their volunteers and, of course, the exhibitors who have put on some fantastic flower shows across the Island this summer. Well done to you all.