2026 is going to bring great changes to the horticultural society. I am stepping down from being chair and show secretary and will become president.
Howard Venters has kindly agreed to become chair with Tom Stovold as vice chair. Phillipe Vesey-Holt becomes show secretary and Sarah Tillard has agreed to take on the role of treasurer. Social media and publicity are going to be in the very capable hands of Yasmin Tomlinson.
With these changes we hope to bring in fresh ideas and momentum to ensure that the society remains a pivotal institution in the village.
Hopefully our 2026 schedule will be ready by the New Year.
The relevant dates are:-
Spring show – Saturday 21st March
Plant sale – Saturday 23rd May, village hall car park 10am to 12.
Summer show – Saturday 25th July
Autumn show – Saturday 12th September
So let’s hope for a dynamic and successful 2026.
Now to gardening matters.
Prune apple, pears and quinces in late December and January. Remove dead dying , damaged and diseased growth- the three Ds! Open up the centre of the tree and keep it to a manageable size. If removing thick growth do so in a frost free period and if necessary use a sealant.
When the leaves have fallen from grape vines cut the side shoots back to four buds from the main stem. Much the same goes for the pruning of Wisteria.
Autumn fruiting raspberries should be cut down to ground level and a layer of compost applied.
Apply grease bands to apples, pears and quinces as soon as possible to prevent the larvae of various moths climbing the tree. If allowed they settle around the fruit buds and will infect the developing fruit next year.
Keep an eye on brassicas and remove yellowing and dying leaves.
Dig parsnips after the first frost to ensure maximum sweetness.
I grow a carrot called Eskimo which will survive in the ground all winter with minimal protection and I strongly recommend it.
Keep checking stored potatoes, onions, garlic and shallots. Outside overwintering onions , garlic, broad beans and peas should be kept weed free.
Now is also a good time for a general clean up.
In the greenhouse all the staging, floor and glass should be sterilised using Jeyes fluid. It is particularly important to keep the glass clean to ensure maximum light penetration during the winter months. All pots , trays and tools should also be cleaned using Jeyes fluid.
When all is spick and span sit down and review the passing year with particular thoughts on what worked and what didn’t and why.
With the catalogues for next year start planning and remember always try something new!
Good Gardening
Peter Estcourt