The Christmas Rose

Hello, storm Ciara has politely whisked her way through the garden, like an angry step mother who was determined to spoil the party. Storm Dennis a distant brother set to re-ignite the melee once again. When you read this we hope that all is calm and you’re merely surveying branches on the lawn and not trees.

This is a short monthly excerpt of prose designed to create conversation, inspire you to leave the house and go about your outdoor spaces. We are a small team of gardeners passionate about nature, plants and all things horticultural. If you have twelve acres or a window box, like looking at flowers from indoors or relish dirty knees and keep your secateurs by the back door, we urge you to take five minutes to feel the fresh air against your cheeks and breathe in all that spring has to offer.

The Christmas Rose – Hellebores are amongst our favourites.

Glimpses of vibrancy from the shade, their bowed and hooded structures with complex stamens emerge, from delicately edged petals with pale pinks, whites and purples. Nature’s gentle introduction to the cacophony of colours that will erupt in spring. Hellebores sit happily amongst ferns, longing for cool summers and a friendly neighbour such as Galanthus nivalis (snow drops) to contrast against the clean whites.

My Grandfather used to create a Hellebore display in a bowl of water on the kitchen table, a great centre -piece and a way to bring nature’s spectrum indoors. By removing stems before they go to seed you are able to curb cross pollination and thus prevent murky colours and ensure clarity of your Hellebore flowers for many years to come.

With climates forever changing, what will you do differently this year with your outdoor space? Have you always wanted that amount of moss in your lawn? Does the climbing rose tapping against the window deserve your attention? We look forward sharing more in the year ahead.

Jobs in the Garden for March
• Formative pruning of low hanging branches on your trees, whilst they are still dormant.
• Lift and split your Galanthus to encourage the spread under any trees or woodland/shaded areas.
• Rake worm casts on your lawn (with preferably a witches broom) and mow the lawn for the first time this year, removing approx 1-2cm height only.
• Turn that compost heap if you have one and apply an organic mulch to add nutrients and protect the roses against any frost.
• Clean the green house and bird feeders to remove mould and prevent any spread of disease.
• Plan your wild meadow or long grass area to do your bit for nature. Possibly source your seeds for the year ahead.

Until next time Ed Haynes hello@hayneshorticulture.co.uk