Island Life Magazine Ltd October/November 2013 | Page 59

Tidy up and get ready for winter
Start an autumn tidy up before the
winter sets in. Clear away summer
annuals from tubs and hanging baskets
and replace with fresh seasons pansies,
violas, mini cyclamen, heathers
and hardy chrysanthemums. These
will provide instant autumn colour.
Under-plant with spring flowering
bulbs.
The soil is still moist and warm so
this is an excellent time to get new
plants established. Add bonemeal
when planting shrubs, trees, roses and
perennials this will encourage good

root growth. Planting can be two fold;
autumn colour and for future spring
and summer interest.
Plant bulbs now to provide a splash
of spring colour, tulips can be planted
right up until November. Bulbs require
a well drained soil; add grit prior to
planting to prevent root rot.
Plant garlic, over wintered onion sets.
Lawns benefit from some autumn
attention, so give a final cut with the
lawnmower blades set high. Aerate the
soil with a fork to prevent waterlogging,
and rake away leaves and moss.

Apply autumn lawn food, and re-seed
any bare patches.
Remember, quality Christmas trees
grown on the Island freshly cut and pot
grown will be available from Shide Trees
and Thompson's Garden Centre. Larger
specimen trees available to order, so
please ring [phone] to discuss
your requirements.
Now open: Thompson's Christmas
display colour themed rooms to inspire
and make Christmas special.

www.visitislandlife.com

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