July 2022
July 2022
Stephen says
It is now time to plant out the dahlia cuttings that were taken from tubers lifted from the dahlia border last November. We have taken around 600 cuttings and will use 384 of them in the border. There are 128 varieties across the 5 main groups; waterlily, decorative, collarette, ball and cactus. It takes 2 people a full 2 days to plant the cuttings.
There are 4 borders with each one divided into 8 blocks. The blocks are separated by a central spine of grasses including Calamagrostis brachytricha, Panicum virgatum Squaw and Calamagrostis Karl Foerster. To the front of the blocks are the contrasting blues of Agapanthus and Asters. Within each block we plant 4 different dahlias of the same group, planting 3 of each to ensure a good display.
Behind the scenes
With the Hot Bank, Hornbeam Walk and Traditional Borders in full colour we are keeping on top of the deadheading to extend the flowering season. The annual border has now been planted and whilst the plants are still small the weeds try to take over, so weeding and watering this border is high priority.
Plant of the month
The tall spires of Veronicastrum virginicum Pink Glow are stealing the show in the Hornbeam Walk. This is such a wonderful plant, providing 12 months of interest. It is tall giving height and structure to the border and does not need any staking or support so is very easy to look after.
Then we have to mention the path to the shop which is lined with pots of Eucomis Sparkling Burgundy and Agapanthus Queen Mum, that are all in full flower. It is just glorious at the moment.
Garden Tips
Watering dahlias is essential to get them established for the flowering season.
It is also time to cut back Penstemons in order to get a second flush of flowers in September.
In the News…
We are now selling plants! We have selected plants that we grow in our borders so you can recreate a bit of the Aston Pottery gardens in your own garden. Find them at the entrance to the shop.
Volunteering:
Our gardening team is very small.
Stephen is head gardener, when he is not making pottery, making cakes, serving in the café or helping in the shop.
Nicky, a volunteer, does one day per week.
More help would be very welcome. Would you like to volunteer too, either on a regular basis or for one of our big plant outs?
You will be reward by being surrounded with wonderful people and plants, along with a cuppa and some fabulous cake and lunch if you do a full day.
If this sounds like something you’d be interested in, please contact Stephen Baughan via email at info@astonpottery.co.uk
