Garden Log 2014-15

[Farhan Ahmed]

Hello Again, With another Fall-Spring edition of my gardening endeavor. Temperatures are steadily improving, hence spade work has begun.

Update Till Now!
Cleaning and preparation of border was undertaken fortnight back. Ground is ready for habitants; however, temperatures are still on the higher side for all out sowing. Intense heat took its toll on nanthra, which required extensive pampering for revival. Self-seeded Heleniums and hollies signal that some species could be sown; therefore part sowing activity was undertaken in first week of September.

Broad Plan
1. No F-2/heirloom species
2. Selected and very few taller species such as hollyhocks and sweet peas etc, more reliance on dwarf/medium height plants due winter rain damage.
3. More reliance on hardy, proven and common species for comparatively easier scheme. Will make it interesting by trying out more novel varieties of such common species such as for nasturtiums, poppies and dahlias.
4. Re-attempt with last year’s successes.
5. Better planting scheme with more focus on height and color.
6. 30-40% effort for new species.
7. Focus on bulbs especially anemone and rununculus.

Seed and sowing media procurement must be at the forefront for all.

[Izhar]

Great... the most anticipated thread of the season is about to start..!!!

Farhan, have you experimented by mixing pure peat in any of your annual bed?

[Farhan Ahmed]

No.
I think considering the scale of a garden and henceforth the additive required, such experiment would not only be costly but temporary as well.
What do you want to achieve by such addition? Moisture retention, PH or porosity?

[Izhar]

I used it in my gardenias and they loved it... i bought a 300 liter bag from Pride Seeds Lahore, still about 250 liters remaining... it softens the soil and pH become 6.0 - 6.5 range... now i intent to use it in my annual beds as well...

[Farhan Ahmed]

300 L bag generally has 30-40 kg media

[Syed Adnan]

Last year i manage to reduce PH of my containers with vinegar, it worked well. Fast and easier way that will not disturb soil and plant.

[khabbab]

Good to see you back Farhan

[Farhan Ahmed]

Something worth trying this spring.

[Mustansir Billah]

And They are too much beautiful too...

[Tahir Khan]

This is a climbing variety right ? with marbled foliage