The Helpful Gardener

05/04/2026

Seedling tip: if your windowsills are too narrow for seedtrays, then position on a table near a window. I saw another hint about using a shoe rack in front of patio doors, also a good idea.

The trays get all the light but not the extremes of temperature if they were right by the window, so it's much better for seed germination and development.

Happy Easter 💐

03/03/2026

26/02/2026

Signs of spring

30/01/2026

Snowdrops give that little bit of hope, often the first new flowers to appear in the garden in January. I've never had much joy planting from bulbs, so follow old advice and split a clump when the flowers have started fading and share with your friends. The flowers will spread and come back for many years

26/01/2026

I know I bang on about this one, but Daphne is just one of the best plants for right now. Pretty flowers and the most gorgeous scent. Try it in a container so you can position it somewhere where you'll appreciate it at this time of year; on a path you take to empty the bins, probably all most of us are doing outside!

14/12/2025

And it's up. All foliage from the garden. I found the cinnamon stick bundles and ribbon in Mum's Christmas collection of decorations, so it's nice to have some of her creative influence here 💕

02/11/2025

All this colour in the garden in November 🌈
When the days are gloomy and wandering in the garden happens less often; bring the colour indoors
🌹

28/10/2025

Join me on Patreon and improve your gardening skills. I've posted 2 new videos this month.
One will guide you through the simple but important steps when re-potting a shrub 🪴 The other shows you how to make new strawberry plants for free 🍓

25/10/2025

Last week's Fungi Walk & Talk organised by was a real eye opener. There's so much out there!

We had only walked a few steps before our guide Martin spotted the first one. His knowledge was incredible and we learnt so much. How much I will remember is a different matter...but some of the names are:
1. Fly Agaric
2. Devil's-fingers
5. Golden Waxcap

29/09/2025

If you're looking for someone who knows how to look after your plants, do get in touch. Contact details in bio

28/09/2025

Views from Clocktower Tour.

Highly recommended and great local history knowledge from our volunteer guide.

Tours are free, but you can donate to fund the upkeep of this important venue and historic building. We learnt loads about our town on the climb up and finished off with these views from the top.