17 things for gardeners to do in 2017
PUBLISHED: 17:11 23 January 2017
Archant
Here’s a little bucket – or should that be wheelbarrow – list compiled by Naomi Slade to make the coming year a treat in our own ‘Great Outdoors’
1. Enjoy the snowdrops
Everyone loves snowdrops, so take a February trip to Welford Park in Berkshire, or the outstanding displays at Kingston Bagpuize, Oxfordshire or Colesbourne Park, Gloucestershire. Alternatively, invest in a couple of unusual varieties to grow at home.
www.colesbournegardens.org.uk; www.welfordpark.co.uk; www.kbhevents.uk
2. Photograph frost effects
The winter 2016-17 is predicted to be a chilly one, so wrap up warm and take some sparkling shots while you have the chance!
3. Sharpen your secateurs
Sharp and well-oiled tools are a sign of a good gardener. Go to it.
4. Take part in National Gardening Week
10-16 April. Host or attend an event and encourage new gardeners to get involved!
www.nationalgardeningweek.org.uk
5. Visit a show
RHS Chelsea and Hampton Court are firm fixtures, but new events on the horizon include a fresh Flower and Food Show at Hatfield House in Hertfordshire, 2 to 4 June, and an RHS show at Chatsworth, Derbyshire on 7 to 11 June, that promises revolutionary design.
rhs.org.uk/shows-events/rhs-chatsworth-flower-show | hatfieldhouseflowerandfoodshow.com/hatfield
6. Embrace the houseplant revival
Designing with houseplants is once more a ‘thing’ so fill your house with on-trend greenery.
7. Be sustainable
Peat-free composts continue to improve and rainwater-harvesting is de rigeur, so look to your environmental footprint and make yourself proud.
8. Extend the season of interest
Take a critical look at your plot. Is it flat in February or dull in December? If so, take steps…
9. Green your front garden
Nicely planted front gardens can add kerb appeal and give pleasure to neighbours, too. Share the love!
10. Encourage insects
We can all do our bit with food, plants and hibernation places.
11. Rethink climbers
According to the RHS clothing a house with greenery can add insulation, reducing heating bills as well as looking great!
12. Grow something tasty
From a little pot of herbs to a fruit tree, you can’t beat home-grown.
13. Install garden lighting
Enjoy the garden late into the evening with solar powered or electric lights, or adorn the shrubs with twinkling candle lanterns.
14. Try something new
Break out of the rut! Mix things up a bit with new ideas, colours or flavours.
15. Open your garden
A great way to raise money for your favourite charity – check out www.ngs.org.uk or www.tvairambulance.org.uk. And if you don’t open you own garden, visit someone else’s.
16. Take time to smell the roses
Gardening is meant to be fun, so whatever you do, enjoy yourself!
17. Show off a little
Make sure your pride and joy is entered in our 2017 Glorious Gardens contest in association with Strutt & Parker.
