The main planting season for annual bedding is upon us. It is a good idea to buy ahead and harden off some of the more tender annuals before you plant. Half-hardy annuals can go out now. Do remember that even if we have warm days, the nights can be chilly, and plants take their cue for the day’s growth from the dawn temperature.
On the vegetable side, runner and French beans, in particular, resent cold nights and our cucurbits like courgettes and cucumbers should not go outside until mid-May at least, but you can bring them on in 2-3 litre pots to get a good start.
We are trying a new melon – Budgie – this year. A bush melon rather than a vine, Canary type with yellow smooth-skinned fruits 1.5-2kg and Brix 14/15. Grow in a greenhouse or a sunny spot.
A lot of you are asking about Kale plants – these are not sown until May, and we shall have plenty in due course.
There are a lot of reports in the trade press about vegetable and fruit crops not being planted because of the high price of oil and shortage of labour. This could lead to higher prices in the shops. A good time to grow your own!
We are open as usual from 0900-1700 all over the upcoming Bank Holidays.
If you have any queries please email us at info@downsidenurseries.co.uk or call the Nursery on 01225 862 392.
Please see our full plant list on our website here