Cool climate

Anna Apple Blossom

First blossom of the season

August 2011

In JUSTIN RUSSELL'S garden, the first fruit blossoms of the new season have made their showy arrival. Leading the charge is an apple with unusual pedigree but an outstanding flavour.

Red Rhubarb

Why is my Rhubarb Green?

July 2011

Rhubarb has had a renaissance in recent years, but more than a few people are finding that their plant won't change colours from green to red. JUSTIN RUSSELL explains why.

Woody Mulch Orchard

Notes on Wood Chip Mulch

July 2011

JUSTIN RUSSELL elaborates on the benefits of wood chip mulch to established fruit trees.

Mid Winter Orchard

Mid-winter in the Orchard

July 2011

For organic fruit growers, mid-winter is the ideal time to apply a preventative spray against summer fungal diseases. JUSTIN RUSSELL explains how.

Raspberries

Raspberry Maintenance

June 2011

For delicious home grown raspberries in summer and autumn, there's a list of routine jobs to do in your berry patch during winter. JUSTIN RUSSELL shows you how.

WinterAlliums

Time to plant light sensitive alliums

June 2011

With the Winter Solstice fast approaching, Justin Russell gives the low down on light sensitivity in plants, and suggest which alliums perform best during the increasing daylight hours.

Bare Root Trees

Getting familiar with nude trees

June 2011

Bare-rooted ornamental and fruit trees will be appearing in nurseries toward the end of the month. JUSTIN RUSSELL explains how to plant them using nature as a guide.

Frosty Morning

Making the Most of Frost

May 2011

In viewing frost as just another issue to contend with in the battle to maintain a pristine backyard, modern gardeners miss the benefits of a decent freeze. Justin Russell welcomes the fiirst frost of the season.

Swale

Swale of a time

March 2010

A new swale covered in fruit trees has got SIMON WEBSTER excited.

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