Few Questions from experts.......

[Farhan Ahmed]

Few Questions...

-What is the best stuff for mulching plants/soil from summer heat?...keeping in view considerations such as
1) it does not hinder hoeing
2) Dampness of the soil can be observed easily
3) Mulch should provide nutrients also
4) should give a tidy appearance ...
5) and lastly cost economy

-When does deciduous plants start to grow leaves again? i guess that is the point which dictates the arrival of true spring

-Does Lupin, Hollyhock and Delphinium flower the first year/or is it the case for hybrid garden varieties of these plants?

Thanks

[Muhammad Arif Khan]

Farhan,
I would also like to know answers to your 5 questions.
Basically the mulch is used to discourage weeds, for which it has to be about 3 inches thick. Hoeing is done for the same purpose. To us the mulch looks untidy, moreover our gardening is Mali oriented. The mulch is replenished a little every year and is not tilled into the soil which is against our concept of GODDI,
I have used rice husk as mulch in my Amaryllis bed and am satisfied.
Lupin I tried, it bloomed but I did not like it so it is out. Holly hock is one of my favourite Its display is best at the periphery. You can sow it at intervals for prolonged blooms and once the main stem has done its job, cut it and new sprouts will take over, as in the picture below.



Delphinium , I grew from seed and by the time plant matured it became too hot the blooms were poor. This year I have purchased 10 plants which as claimed were germinated in Murree, some are on buds.