At this time of year the soil is still warm and with the weather at the moment wet!! This is one of the best times of the year to plant shrubs and trees. The soil conditions allow the plant to develop its' root system and become more established before the frost come. This gives the plant a much better start for the new Spring growth.
Apples are still very popular in the English garden and are grown with different rootstocks to suit the smaller modern garden.
When selecting an apple tree look for the rootstock code. A number such as M106 is classed as a 'Bush' tree which would grow to approximately 14-18ft where as an M9 will grow approximately 8-10ft which is ideal for the smaller garden.
A main consideration when choosing an apple tree is that most varieties require another apple of different variety faily close by to enable pollination to take place. The flowering time of the two apples should be in the same period. There are a few exceptions to the rule where some such as 'Bramley' require two pollinators of different varieties. these are called Triploids.
If in doubt, always ask for assistance from the Garden Centre Staff !
Other poular fruit trees are Pears, Plums, Apricots, Cherries etc which all benefit from the Autumn planting.
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Ferns are usually found in shady woodland areas or where the soil is miost and the air humid. Growing en masse, they look pretty spectacular and can be quite exotic in appearance. Gardens with a damp and shady area would be ideal for many types of ferns.
The best position for ferns is in light or full shade with moist rich soil. Most varieties are not fussy about soil type but some, such as Blechnum and Thelypteris prefer an acid soil. Once established these plants need little attention but plenty of moisture in the early days is a must.
Many varieties will die back in the winter months but it is better to leave the fronds on until the spring to give added protection from the frosts. In the spring, cutt away the old fronds and divide if required and transplant.
The 'Shield Fern' (Polystichum) is evergreen and will withstand dryer condtions although shade is prefered. There are many varieties to choose from and the size varies 2-4ft depending on variety. A good fern for growing alongside ponds and water is 'Osmunda Regalis' which will reach 5ft in height. It is deciduous but will survive in full sun if the soil is moist. The 'Shuttlecock Fern' (Matteuccia) has lovely arching fronds similar to Ostrich feathers ! This will grow at the waters edge up to 5ft tall.
Come along while we still have a great selection to plant in the Autumn !!
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