A frost at last, and (with the winds this week!) leaves will start to fall soon so we can start ‘bare rooting’ the fruit trees.

Most Figs have now turned a pale yellow prior to dropping , any fruits that are left will need to come off as no further ripening will occur. I would recommend removing any larger than a small pea, those left on the tree will stand a good chance of getting frozen and then drop late in the spring , delaying the new crop. It is a good idea to clean the trees at the same time with a winter wash ( an organic version is now available ) this will remove any over wintering bugs and spores.

This week has also seen the ‘epic’ repair job on our main greenhouse finished at last. The very efficient ‘Cropleys Team’ have now glazed and gone. We have been without the use of this house for 6 months now and we are all looking forward to getting back in there with some plants.

The grafting season will soon be with us , if you have a cherished tree that is in need of propagating let us know , we have access to a huge range of trees and graft wood, which we can work for you or supply the materials and advice to help you graft your own.

Mealy bugs can be a real pest in the conservatory over winter, keep a close eye out for the tell tale white fluff in the leaf nodes and under leaves. Predators will be too cold now so use ‘Plant invigorator’ to clean these up, or they will get everywhere, the male is the only one with wings but he will carry the others about with him!

Winter colour is always cheerful on those cold, wet days, Hardenbergia are one of the best, evergreen with racemes of pink-purple flowers in February / March, with the scent of some Jasmine growing behind them into the greenhouse roof ?

Best wishes.

Stephen & Debbi