We have experienced the driest and hottest spring on record and this is obviously going to have consequences right through the growing season. At time of writing (12th May) there is no substantial rain forecast in the next few weeks. This suggests a long summer of watering and perhaps a hosepipe ban so a few words about water and watering.
Firstly to state the obvious rain water is best. It has two beneficial properties and these are the fact that it absorbs oxygen as it falls which will benefit growth and it arrives at the right temperature. It is worth remembering that water straight from the tap or well is usually too cold and can lead to scorching of leaves in hot weather. Hence it is wise if using well or tap water to give it time to reach the ambient temperature either by standing the watering cans in the sun or if filling water butts leave it for 24 hours before using it.
The one disadvantage of rain is that it wets the leaves. Mostly this doesn’t matter or can be beneficial but for tomatoes, cucumbers, courgettes and squash it may lead to blight , mildew and botrytis. It is therefore wise always to water at the base and leave the leaves dry.
One good soaking is much better than frequent small applications as this encourages the plant to send roots down rather than remaining near the surface.
With plants in pots and containers it is worth remembering that even in wet weather the surface area is so small the plant is unlikely to get sufficient moisture. So when watering direct the stream at the base of the plant and then right round the rim to ensure the whole container is watered. Finally to make sure penetration has been completed make sure a trickle of water comes out at the bottom.
Using a mulch round the base of plants can help avoid evaporation. An easy is to use one is dried grass cuttings which will inhibit evaporation yet allow you to water through it. I think the evening is the best time to water as it cuts down on evaporation and hence reduces humidity that might encourage fungal diseases.
Tomatoes, chillies, aubergine and sweet peppers benefit from a weekly liquid feed preferably one containing seaweed especially for the tomatoes.
One of the great joys of June is strawberries especially home grown and picked perfectly ripe and still warm from the sun. Most commercially grown strawberries and tomatoes are picked slightly under ripe to ensure a longer self life but what they loose is texture and flavour.
Strawberries benefit from a weekly tomato type feed and must be kept moist. Remove deceased leaves and potential runners at least in the first year. Raise the fruit from the ground with straw or matting and cover with netting to keep birds and squirrels at bay. Also beware of slugs especially the little black ones.
The other great joys of June are first early new potatoes, over wintering broad beans and fresh peas especially Douce Provence. Don’t forget the top foliage of broad beans can be used as a green vegetable a bit like spinach. As for new potatoes, butter,a little salt and pepper and lots of fresh parsley!
Our next event is the summer show on Saturday 19th July in the village hall. Please come along and support us or better still , enter! Schedules available from committee members and the Five Bells
Good Gardening
Peter Estcourt