Prune summer flowering clematis before the end of Feb

Most summer flowering clematis need cutting back before the end of February, cut the stems back to emerging buds above soil level.

Herb gardens

After reading an article in  December in a popular garden magazine titled "50 ways to recycle and save money " I feel compelled to post that in those 50 it did not mention to grow your own herbs or divide herbaceous plants. I must of bought 40 to 50 plastic wrapped, silly bunches of herbs  last year from supermarkets all costing £1.50 + a time (I have a completely shady garden or I would grow my own).

If you enjoy a sunny garden then growing your own herbs is child's play. Either in window sill troughs (kitchen window best) or by creating a little patch somewhere in the garden. The majority of herbslove sunny, well drained areas as most originate from the Mediterranean,  so if your soil is not too free draining mix in some grit or sharp sand to help drainage. I would suggest planting 3 each of your favorite most used herbs then you will have a ready supply. MINT! plant this in a pot in the ground, it spreads like wild flower.

For an excellent supplier of herbs go to http://www.jekkasherbfarm.com/

If you would like an area designed in your garden for herbs please send an email to scott@scottlawrence.co.uk or contact me on 07792 185130.

Vegetables to sow now.

Spring is just around the corner and you can start to sow these vegetables now (depending on the variety you choose).

• Broad beans
• Chillies
• Parsnips
• Shallot sets
• Summer cabbage
• Sweet peppers
• Tomotoes (mid sized vaieties)