Island Life Magazine Ltd October/November 2008 | Page 62

COUNTRYSIDE, WILDLIFE & FARMING

countryside
news

life

Compiled by Tony Ridd

DO YOU HAVE A
COUNTRYSIDE STORY?

what to
look out
for...

Ivy Flowers
Found almost everywhere in abundance,
ivy is a real autumn treat, as it is our final
flowering, wild flower of the year. On calm
sunny days the flowers attract the last of the
years, butterflies and moths, often looking a
little worse for wear round the edges. The
flowers are yellowish-green, followed by
masses of black berries, providing a winter
feast for many birds.

back to nature
A countrymans diary
Just when most other outdoor activities are winding
down, we are beginning to gear up to our busiest
time of the year, the winter months…
The majority of our hedge and woodland planting
is done using ‘bare-rooted’ trees and shrubs. These
can range from 45cm (18”) up to a standard tree
4m (12’). We also plant a lot of root-balled trees
depending on species, size,
location and clients preference
(pocket!). Unlike potted trees,
these can only be planted in their
dormancy.
Planting hedges and trees, isn’t
really like normal gardening.
Careful thought and decision
making is required. Both hedge
and tree should be planted with
longevity in mind, yes you can dig
them up, or root them out but
these are features for prosperity.
We get involved in all types of
schemes, and it’s great to go back years later and see
how they have all been growing. Climbing a tree,
that I planted as a whip, or laying a hedge that was
planted nine years before, gives you a real sense of
achievement.
I generally claim not to have a favourite time of
year, but I must admit I really look forward to the
autumn. Our countryside and gardens become
a riot of colour, we clean off our planting spades
and would, normally hunt for our winter clothing,
but I think this year, we’ve worn them out over the
summer months!!!

CALL TONY ON 07966 292334

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