It certainly has cooled down since we’ve entered September but, that doesn’t mean we can hang up the gloves, there is still plenty to keep us occupied throughout the autumn months.
During September, the indoor team will be potting spring bulbs in the nursery, ready to be used in the Mediterranean House next spring. Hyacinths will be planted in 13cm half pots, 3 bulbs to a pot, each with their noses protruding out of the compost so that they don’t rot. Daffodils will also be planted in 18cm pots, 7 bulbs to a pot. Then, once potted, the Hyacinths and Narcissus will be placed outside in a north facing, dark covered cold frame until late winter. The cold and dark is needed to initiate good root growth.
Moving outside, the team will also be planting spring bulbs into our bedding displays. This will be done once the 4,000-winter flowering Polyanthus have been planted out first. Moreover, the gardening team will be discussing, planning and ordering around 10,000 to 12,000 bedding plants for the next 18 months. Yes, for summer 2019 and winter 2019/2020! Gardeners always have to plan ahead!
We will also be planting new shrubs and perennials around the gardens, now that the weather is cooler and damper. They will get off to a good start, producing a good root system before the winter sets in. September is also the perfect time to divide herbaceous perennials. After 3 to 5 years, perennials can get pretty big and can start dying out in the centre and lose vigour. By lifting them and cutting them into smaller sections with a spade, it helps to rejuvenate the plant. Don’t forget to water them in well. However, you may find you now have too many plants to cope with – but remember, you could swap them with your family and friends!
As the summer has been so hot and dry this year, many of you will have hardly had to cut your lawns – and neither have we! We are expecting to start mowing again during September; once the damp weather has started to help the lawns heal and flourish. However, towards the end of the month, we will be busy clearing up the first of the autumn leaves. Why not visit the gardens to see the first trees produce their autumnal leaves? Cercidiphyllum japonicum or candyfloss tree has heart shaped leaves in pink, orange and yellow, all of which smell of candyfloss or toffee apples. Make sure you see it in the Rhododendron Garden now!
Make sure you look after your garden and remember, if you have any
questions, tweet us at @BhamBotanicalGd
