NEW year, new GARDEN

Most of us have at least some outdoor space, even if it is a small balcony, and what better way to embrace 2023 than by effectively planning how you are going to use your space, what you are going to grow, and whether you are going to make things easier or more difficult for yourself?

- PAT INGARFIELD

It is that time of year again! We all look forward with anticipation and determination to an opportunity to change aspects of our lives, do better in others and just resolve to be better human beings. Eating better and getting more exercise are usually top of the list of resolutions, but for many gardeners the most important involve their gardens. As a plant lover, one is learning all the time, and all sorts of small experiences provide inspiration for doing things differently, planting wisely, being more creative and going greener.

RESOLUTION

Be realistic! 

All of us gardeners page longingly through books and magazines wishing that we had the space, budget or time to create the stunning gardens on those pages. This only creates frustration – it is far better to accept whatever type of garden you have and plan accordingly.

How you plan and design your garden for the new year depends largely on how much garden you have. If you are lucky enough to own a large garden with plenty of room then it is easier in a way as you don‘t have to leave anything out. A small area becomes more of a challenge because you are going to have to make choices, as less space requires clever use of what you have while still enjoying the visual impact. With that said, plants that are growing too close together compete for nutrients in the soil to their detriment, and being too close together leads to increased humidity, which in turn leads to fungal and another disease. Plan the space that you have carefully and you will find that your plants do better and grow more vigorously.