His Garden February 2006

This month, Shallots can be planted. To prepare the bed, a reasonable fine tilth needs to be created. I plant the bulbs by pressing them half way in to the bed. Spaced 8 or 9 inches apart, in rows 14 or 15 inches apart.

Below Cauliflower sown in trays last September, and placed in the Grow House, are ready to plant out this month.

The plants will be planted out 18 inches apart, in rows 2 feet or so apart. I have limited space, so plant rather closely. It is quite normal to leave 2 feet between plants.

The Asparagus bed will receive a dressing of fertilizer, applied at a rate of, 6 lbs common salt, 2 lbs sulphate of potash, 3 lbs nitrate of soda 3 lbs superphosphate of lime. Well mixed together, and applied at of 3 oz per square yard.

If the weather is dry, and not frosty. I have found it advisable to aireate and sweep the Lawn. Towards the end of the month, if the grass is growing, I would mow the Lawn, setting the blades so that a very light cut is taken. I would trim the edges of the lawn and grass paths. This operation enhances the garden.

I will clear all crops that have finished. Lightly fork the plot over ready to prepare a seed bed, for Brussels sprouts, Cauliflower, Cabbage, Leeks, Spring onions and Lettuce. To be sown next month. A dressing of Grow more will be applied, two or three hand fuls per square yard. Raked into the surface.

A bed for Broad beans and peas will be prepared, for method followed, see February 005.

When checking the Rambler Rose, I noticed one stem has not produced buds this year.

I will prune the above stem back to new growth. Below stem after pruning.

Last September I mentioned pruning flower growths on stems of Rambler Roses, leaving one or two buds on the growths.

Below buds forming flower growths pruned last September.

Early this month I will purchase early seed potatoes. They will be chatted. This operation entails individually in trays. The trays will be placed a dry frost free shed or room. Over four or five weeks, the seed will produce shoots, and should be ready to plant towards the end of March.

This month I plan to prepare a Herb Bed. The ground will be dug over, digging in compost and well rotted farmyard manure. To finish the bed, a deep fine tilth will be created.

Horse Radish can be planted this month. A trench about 2 feet deep needs to be dug out. I would plant approx. 18 inches apart.

Also Garlic. I plant deep enough so that the bulb is firm, not completely covered. Spaced 8 or 9 inches apart.

I will mention other Herbs, as the bed progresses.

This month one can divide and replant herbaceous plants such, such as London pride, Michaelmas Daises etc.

I dig the plant up, then divide with a sharp spade. Replanting the strongest outside clumps, of the divided plant.