THE MODERN MINT BLOG
Plants for a shady border… be aware, some can cope with deeper shade than others, but all are worthwhile garden …
Finnish Gardens
From our trip to Western Finland last summer to check out some Finnish gardens, the Finnish landscape, and get some garden ideas… The landscape around you effects the way you behave. Notice how much colour the Finnish people use… symptomatic of the short growing season… Do we use enough colour in the UK? Or do we not appreciate just how bold we can go? Although a white garden is lovely, we can take lessons from people who like a more vibrant palette – try The Bold and Brilliant Garden if you need ideas. Everything gets recycled and reused, like this spade being used as …
Garden Jobs July
So many garden jobs in July. But the first garden job in July? Stop your weeding and mowing for a moment and SMELL THE ROSES! (You’ve got to enjoy your garden too, no…?) What other jobs are worth doing in the garden now July is here? Start with pruning the fruit trees that have st0nes, like cherries and plums. Remember to water your pots. Remove suckers from lime trees and lightly prune any plants you are trying to pleach. Deadhead and feed the roses. Weedkill and feed the lawns. If you really must. Take a look at any spring flowering shrubs …
Verbena Bonariensis
We know we know – Verbena bonariensis is so well known, planted in so many gardens, that it has become uncool to use it these days. Its ubiquitiousness means it gets judged in harsher tones than other plants, as if its popularity has made it offensive. This is not the Verbena’s fault. It became popular for a reason – it weaves its way around the garden but doesn’t out compete other plants, it provides height and structure, encourages wildlife, is a gorgeous purple, looks good with other plants and fits into schemes as diverse as a country meadow to urban minimalism. Who wouldn’t want a …