Summer Is Almost Gone

With all the rain we've had in the UK over the past few weeks getting out in the garden hasn't been easy.

Funny, we've actually got a hosepipe ban in the North West as the reservoirs have been drying up, a result of the lack of rain in the early half of this year.

Anyway, the grass is growing at a phenominal rate still, but sitting out and enjoying the sunshine is a fading memory for many of us. Not long now and summer will have come and gone. More rain, snow, and winds to look forward to. And no doubt a promise of a glorious summer next year that somehow I doubt will transpire.

Getting Rid of Weeds

A weed is technically just a plant in the wrong place. It could be an unwanted seedling from another plant, or something more pernicious and invasive that you really want to eradicate. However, while you'll never be able to completely stop weeds from popping up, there are ways to ensure they have less places to grow.
Bare patches of soil will quickly be colonised by both annual and perennial weeds, so a well-stocked border is less likely to support a thriving population of these pesky plants. If you have gaps in your borders, plug them by planting ground covering plants.

Bare soil

• Mulch with a thick, 8cm (3in), layer of bark chippings, well-rotted manure or leaf mould in the spring. Not only will this prevent weeds from growing, but it will help to retain moisture in the soil.
• If you have a large area, such as an unused patch at the allotment, cover with plastic, landscape material or even old carpet to prevent weeds from germinating.