Morning all,
Nice bit of weather to kick things off. Luckily the temperatures are not going too mad yet so here’s hoping for a sustained emptying of the gardeners wallet. We’ve certainly been pretty hectic getting all the plants out there and trying to keep some sort of production going at this end. With some relief we got the potting machine back up and running earlier today so only a few days missed really and we did do a bit of hand potting just to get a few desperate things into compost. We are going to try and catch up a bit over the weekend and with the better growing weather they should soon catch up.
Still managed to fit in a bit of R and R among all the nursery activity, variety is the spice and all that. The weekly yoga lesson is proving a great relaxer, we come out feeling like it’s Friday night before a long weekend, so get home and tuck straight into the crisps and beer. I was asleep in the chair by 8.30, missing out on rhubarb and ice cream and then in bed spark out by 9.30. Isn’t that how Friday night is supposed to be? Meanwhile my real Friday night is here and now, getting the potting set up for tomorrow, and all this stuff sorted. Best not think too much about what we’ll get up to on our weekend, mostly potting, printing labels and packing tubs and lids for sterilisation for the microprop lab, still, it is the weekend, hurrah.
Late night on Thursday, went to Basingstoke to see Eric Bibb who we’ve not seen before but was just sensational. He has released over 40 albums, of which we had one which we love, now we have another couple! A distinctive individual style, very easy to listen to but challenging at the same time. He had it all, style, talent, modesty, and made you think. He’s on tour at the moment and well worth a visit so don’t miss out, get out there. Now I’m over-tired and in danger of losing it. Just had to correct a little typo in the opening line where somehow things had become thongs, which read a little differently.
Availability highlights
We have a small number of the Anemone coronaria varieties grown this spring. Masses of growth and now coming into flower. Very colourful blooms, there aren’t many to go round so don’t hold back. Fresh crops of Ajuga are coming into flower. Great ground cover in a range of foliage colours. Black Scallop and Sugar Plum are strong new varieties and looking particularly good. The ever popular Erysimum’s are still doing really well. Bowles Mauve, are still looking great. Fresh bushy batches of Pastel Patchwork and Apricot Twist are now in bud again.
We have a mini version of Alchemilla mollis for the first time this season. Alchemilla erith. Alma is a pretty but understated, compact form and has just started putting out its first spring flower stems. Bright gold foliage contrasts nicely with the deep blue flowers of Tradescantia Blue and Gold making it a popular choice. The strong yellow flat flower heads of Achillea Moonshine contrast so well with its grey green foliage, always a favourite. The buds are there and the colour won’t be far behind. The lovely red Achillea Paprika has also produced its first flower stems and several of the dwarf Dessert Eve series are producing flower shoots.
The Primula japonica Millers Crimson are monsters, full of vigour with the brightly coloured flower heads appearing above the heart of the lush foliage. Primula beesiana (pale purple) and Primula x bullesiana (mixed colours) are just showing their flower heads among their strong rosettes of leaves. The pretty little Foam Flower (Tiarella) are producing plenty of bud and flower now. They flower for an age.
The Verbascum Phoenician Hybrids have just started showing their flower stems. A mix of colours they come quickly into bud producing pretty spikes of flower. Pyrethrum’s in both red and pink forms have buds just appearing above their ferny foliage, best now before they get tall. The short, neat and bright orange Geum variety Koi have their first of many flowers. Mrs Bradshaw and Lady Stratheden are close behind with flower stems appearing. Dramatic Thalictrum flower shoots looking good above their aquilegia-like foliage.
Geranium sangineum are showing a few buds now as temperatures rise. Fabulous crops of fresh Delphiniums ready now. Chunky, fresh and full of vim and vigour.
The first Astilbes are showing strong fresh growth and their flower buds. Top tip; Take care to water regularly avoiding full sun and drying winds to prevent the buds drying out. The overwintered Lupin’s and Digitalis are all looking full of promise and vigour with flower spikes starting on many. Get them quick before they get too tall to send.
Have a good one, from all at Kirton Farm Nurseries
Tuesday, 17 May 2016
Monday, 9 May 2016
Hairy Sunshine
Morning all,
Coat and hat are off, at least for a few days anyway. Quick heat wave this weekend, in the south east at least which comes just in time to kick start the bedding season in a big way. In many plant areas, for the first few weeks of May, this often comes at the expense of space for other stock like ours, which is quite understandable, just a bit frustrating having waited so long for some nice weather to appear and then we might miss out. Heh ho, we can’t do much about the weather so not too worried really, just glad that people will get out in the gardens again and catch that spring bug.
Not just the sun to make us smile this week, two House Martins have come back this week with hopefully more to follow and Leicester City won the League which is just brilliant for the city and for football. It even gives us hope here that Southampton could do this one day, a lovely moment for sport and the underdog. The overdraft slipped back off its limit last week, not by a lot but still a pleasant relief and the chance to pay off a few outstanding bills. Had an inspiring email posting earlier from one of our suppliers which I have to pass on. It went along the lines of; ‘Take a look at our fantastic irrigation systems, you will wet your plants’. Well it appealed to me.
All this love and joy even curbed the disappointment of the potting machine giving up over the holiday weekend, luckily just as we had finished for the day. Stretched chains and worn sprockets are not good news but then I can take a pill for that, but for the machine it’s a bit more serious. The mending chaps are in next week to sort it out providing I throw a large wad their way, but hoping to be back on it by the end of the week. Great timing, not busy at all!
Availability highlights
Dicentra Goldheart with its bright yellow leaves and beautifully contrasting pink and white flowers are ready to go this week. The flower spikes of Veronica gentanoides are extending up from luxuriant fresh green foliage, ready to display their delightful powder blue flowers. These are flying out at the moment so won’t be around for long. The ever popular Erysimum’s are still doing really well. Bowles Mauve, are looking great, dark green foliage, bushy with lots of bud and a bit of colour showing. Fresh bushy batches of Pastel Patchwork and Apricot Twist are now in bud again. The strong yellow flat flower heads of Achillea Moonshine contrast so well with its grey green foliage, always a favourite. The buds are there and the colour won’t be long. The lovely red Achillea Paprika has also produced its first flower stems. The Primula japonica varieties are an impressive candelabra type, our best batch form being Millers Crimson which are monsters, full of vigour with the brightly coloured flower heads just appearing in the heart of the foliage.
We have just a few blue Camassia left, looking strong and fresh. The flower buds are just appearing but this will be the last week as stocks are low. The pretty little Foam Flower (Tiarella) are producing plenty of bud and flower now. They flower for an age. The Verbascum Phoenician Hybrids have just started showing their flower stems. A mix of colours they come quickly into bud producing pretty spikes of flower. Still got some fantastic Pulsatilla’s which are producing bud and flower. Lovely bushy plants.
Campanula glomerata are beginning to produce their flower spikes with bud appearing and the odd flash of colour. The more scrambly Campanula posharskyana look rampant with lush foliage and bud showing.
Pyrethrum’s in both red and pink forms have buds just appearing above their ferny foliage, best now before they get tall. The short, neat & bright orange Geum varieties of Koi and Queen of Orange have their first of many flowers. Mrs Bradshaw and Lady Stratheden are close behind with flower stems appearing.
The little bright pink flowers of Erodium Bishops Form are now peppering the cushions of foliage looking perky. Dramatic Thalictrum flower shoots looking good above their aquilegia-like foliage.
One of the earliest Geraniums, phaeum Samabor, is showing dainty dark flowers above it’s smart darkly marked foliage. Geranium sangineum are showing a few buds now as temperatures rise.
Fabulous crops of fresh Delphiniums ready now. Short and chunky, fresh and full of vim and vigour.
The first Astilbes are showing strong fresh growth and flower buds. Top tip; Take care to water regularly avoiding full sun and drying winds to prevent the buds drying out. The overwintered Lupin’s and Digitalis are all looking full of promise and vigour with flower spikes starting on many. Get them quick before they get too tall to send.
Have a good one, from all at Kirton Farm Nurseries
Coat and hat are off, at least for a few days anyway. Quick heat wave this weekend, in the south east at least which comes just in time to kick start the bedding season in a big way. In many plant areas, for the first few weeks of May, this often comes at the expense of space for other stock like ours, which is quite understandable, just a bit frustrating having waited so long for some nice weather to appear and then we might miss out. Heh ho, we can’t do much about the weather so not too worried really, just glad that people will get out in the gardens again and catch that spring bug.
Not just the sun to make us smile this week, two House Martins have come back this week with hopefully more to follow and Leicester City won the League which is just brilliant for the city and for football. It even gives us hope here that Southampton could do this one day, a lovely moment for sport and the underdog. The overdraft slipped back off its limit last week, not by a lot but still a pleasant relief and the chance to pay off a few outstanding bills. Had an inspiring email posting earlier from one of our suppliers which I have to pass on. It went along the lines of; ‘Take a look at our fantastic irrigation systems, you will wet your plants’. Well it appealed to me.
All this love and joy even curbed the disappointment of the potting machine giving up over the holiday weekend, luckily just as we had finished for the day. Stretched chains and worn sprockets are not good news but then I can take a pill for that, but for the machine it’s a bit more serious. The mending chaps are in next week to sort it out providing I throw a large wad their way, but hoping to be back on it by the end of the week. Great timing, not busy at all!
Availability highlights
Dicentra Goldheart with its bright yellow leaves and beautifully contrasting pink and white flowers are ready to go this week. The flower spikes of Veronica gentanoides are extending up from luxuriant fresh green foliage, ready to display their delightful powder blue flowers. These are flying out at the moment so won’t be around for long. The ever popular Erysimum’s are still doing really well. Bowles Mauve, are looking great, dark green foliage, bushy with lots of bud and a bit of colour showing. Fresh bushy batches of Pastel Patchwork and Apricot Twist are now in bud again. The strong yellow flat flower heads of Achillea Moonshine contrast so well with its grey green foliage, always a favourite. The buds are there and the colour won’t be long. The lovely red Achillea Paprika has also produced its first flower stems. The Primula japonica varieties are an impressive candelabra type, our best batch form being Millers Crimson which are monsters, full of vigour with the brightly coloured flower heads just appearing in the heart of the foliage.
We have just a few blue Camassia left, looking strong and fresh. The flower buds are just appearing but this will be the last week as stocks are low. The pretty little Foam Flower (Tiarella) are producing plenty of bud and flower now. They flower for an age. The Verbascum Phoenician Hybrids have just started showing their flower stems. A mix of colours they come quickly into bud producing pretty spikes of flower. Still got some fantastic Pulsatilla’s which are producing bud and flower. Lovely bushy plants.
Campanula glomerata are beginning to produce their flower spikes with bud appearing and the odd flash of colour. The more scrambly Campanula posharskyana look rampant with lush foliage and bud showing.
Pyrethrum’s in both red and pink forms have buds just appearing above their ferny foliage, best now before they get tall. The short, neat & bright orange Geum varieties of Koi and Queen of Orange have their first of many flowers. Mrs Bradshaw and Lady Stratheden are close behind with flower stems appearing.
The little bright pink flowers of Erodium Bishops Form are now peppering the cushions of foliage looking perky. Dramatic Thalictrum flower shoots looking good above their aquilegia-like foliage.
One of the earliest Geraniums, phaeum Samabor, is showing dainty dark flowers above it’s smart darkly marked foliage. Geranium sangineum are showing a few buds now as temperatures rise.
Fabulous crops of fresh Delphiniums ready now. Short and chunky, fresh and full of vim and vigour.
The first Astilbes are showing strong fresh growth and flower buds. Top tip; Take care to water regularly avoiding full sun and drying winds to prevent the buds drying out. The overwintered Lupin’s and Digitalis are all looking full of promise and vigour with flower spikes starting on many. Get them quick before they get too tall to send.
Have a good one, from all at Kirton Farm Nurseries
Tuesday, 3 May 2016
Hairy Head
Morning all,
Bank holiday weekend is upon us and the forecast doesn’t look too bad down here in the balmy south. Looking forward to taking off my fleece and hat soon. Summer must be close, we have two swallows back here this week and roosting in the donkey shed as usual. Bit anxious that their food might be in short supply with the cold weather holding back the flying insects but with rising temperatures over the next few days I’m sure they will cope. There are signs of more vigorous plant growth in the offing and that slight improvement in the weather should produce a real flush of growth, just hoping it doesn’t all come at once. Our second big batch of pest predators were released last week, another part of the plan likely to be hindered by the cold, just hoping we haven’t wasted all that expense and sentenced them to an icy demise. Best not think about it too much.
In Caroline’s wealth of spare time she does a bit of short term cat fostering for a charity and because we have a bit of space here we tend to get used for the area warehousing for supplies. We took in a huge pallet of reject/damaged cat food this week which sat neatly in the barn. The next morning Spare cat didn’t want any breakfast which was unusual but the reason became apparent later when I caught him perched on top of the pallet licking his lips. Several packets were well open and munched, including those addictive Dreamies. Talk about the cat getting the cream.
My turn last night, celebrated our wedding anniversary with a meeting of the Up Somborne Gentlemens Book Club (set up in response to the ladies version). Held this time at the Flacks Brewery in Romsey, while being given a very entertaining tour of the premises complete with associated sampling of the various products being produced. Delicious but not easy getting up the next morning!
If anyone from further afield is amassing a good collection of our wooden boxes (60+) and wants to shift them (we are not getting out as much with our own transport over the longer distances at the moment) you are quite welcome to wrap them on a pallet, drop us an email and we will organise a pallet company to collect them to clear them out of the way. Box stocks are getting lower this end, so any returns gratefully received from everyone. Thanks. Box cleaning, drying & mending at this end is going well, just about keeping on top of demand at the moment.
Availability highlights
Dicentra spectabilis are looking great and probably at their best, shoots bushy and are nicely above the surface and buds with a bit of colour already showing on this fleshy exotic. Not many left. Dicentra Goldheart with its bright yellow leaves and beautifully contrasting pink and white flowers are ready to go this week. The flower spikes of Veronica gentanoides are extending up from luxuriant fresh green foliage, ready to display their delightful powder blue flowers. The ever popular Erysimum’s are still doing really well. Two of the most popular varieties, Red Jep and Bowles Mauve, are looking great, dark green foliage, bushy with buds swelling and a bit of colour showing. Fresh batches of Pastel Patchwork and Apricot Twist are now in bud again.
The Primula japonica varieties are just showing their strong flower heads. An impressive candelabra type, our best batch being the Millers Crimson which are monsters, full of vigour with the flower heads just appearing in the heart of the foliage. Still got some fantastic Pulsatilla’s which have come through very strongly now, really great plants, our best ever with plenty of bud and opening flower. The red and purple forms are particularly impressive. Why not make a show and get in a few trays while they are at their best? Campanula glomerata are beginning to produce their flower spikes with bud appearing and the odd flash of colour. The more scrambly Campanula posharskyana look rampant with lush foliage and bud showing. Pyrethrum’s in both red and pink forms have buds just appearing above their ferny foliage, best now before they get tall. The short, neat and bright orange Geum varieties of Koi and Queen of Orange have their first of many flowers. Caltha palustris are showing their early yellow buds among the healthy green shoots. The little bright pink flowers of Erodium Bishops Form are now peppering the cushions of foliage looking perky. Thalictrum flower shoots looking good above their aquilegia-like foliage. One of the earliest Geraniums, phaeum Samabor, is showing dainty dark flowers above it’s smart darkly marked foliage.The overwintered Lupin’s and Digitalis are all looking full of promise and vigour with flower spikes starting on many.
Have a good one, from all at Kirton Farm Nurseries
Bank holiday weekend is upon us and the forecast doesn’t look too bad down here in the balmy south. Looking forward to taking off my fleece and hat soon. Summer must be close, we have two swallows back here this week and roosting in the donkey shed as usual. Bit anxious that their food might be in short supply with the cold weather holding back the flying insects but with rising temperatures over the next few days I’m sure they will cope. There are signs of more vigorous plant growth in the offing and that slight improvement in the weather should produce a real flush of growth, just hoping it doesn’t all come at once. Our second big batch of pest predators were released last week, another part of the plan likely to be hindered by the cold, just hoping we haven’t wasted all that expense and sentenced them to an icy demise. Best not think about it too much.
In Caroline’s wealth of spare time she does a bit of short term cat fostering for a charity and because we have a bit of space here we tend to get used for the area warehousing for supplies. We took in a huge pallet of reject/damaged cat food this week which sat neatly in the barn. The next morning Spare cat didn’t want any breakfast which was unusual but the reason became apparent later when I caught him perched on top of the pallet licking his lips. Several packets were well open and munched, including those addictive Dreamies. Talk about the cat getting the cream.
My turn last night, celebrated our wedding anniversary with a meeting of the Up Somborne Gentlemens Book Club (set up in response to the ladies version). Held this time at the Flacks Brewery in Romsey, while being given a very entertaining tour of the premises complete with associated sampling of the various products being produced. Delicious but not easy getting up the next morning!
If anyone from further afield is amassing a good collection of our wooden boxes (60+) and wants to shift them (we are not getting out as much with our own transport over the longer distances at the moment) you are quite welcome to wrap them on a pallet, drop us an email and we will organise a pallet company to collect them to clear them out of the way. Box stocks are getting lower this end, so any returns gratefully received from everyone. Thanks. Box cleaning, drying & mending at this end is going well, just about keeping on top of demand at the moment.
Availability highlights
Dicentra spectabilis are looking great and probably at their best, shoots bushy and are nicely above the surface and buds with a bit of colour already showing on this fleshy exotic. Not many left. Dicentra Goldheart with its bright yellow leaves and beautifully contrasting pink and white flowers are ready to go this week. The flower spikes of Veronica gentanoides are extending up from luxuriant fresh green foliage, ready to display their delightful powder blue flowers. The ever popular Erysimum’s are still doing really well. Two of the most popular varieties, Red Jep and Bowles Mauve, are looking great, dark green foliage, bushy with buds swelling and a bit of colour showing. Fresh batches of Pastel Patchwork and Apricot Twist are now in bud again.
The Primula japonica varieties are just showing their strong flower heads. An impressive candelabra type, our best batch being the Millers Crimson which are monsters, full of vigour with the flower heads just appearing in the heart of the foliage. Still got some fantastic Pulsatilla’s which have come through very strongly now, really great plants, our best ever with plenty of bud and opening flower. The red and purple forms are particularly impressive. Why not make a show and get in a few trays while they are at their best? Campanula glomerata are beginning to produce their flower spikes with bud appearing and the odd flash of colour. The more scrambly Campanula posharskyana look rampant with lush foliage and bud showing. Pyrethrum’s in both red and pink forms have buds just appearing above their ferny foliage, best now before they get tall. The short, neat and bright orange Geum varieties of Koi and Queen of Orange have their first of many flowers. Caltha palustris are showing their early yellow buds among the healthy green shoots. The little bright pink flowers of Erodium Bishops Form are now peppering the cushions of foliage looking perky. Thalictrum flower shoots looking good above their aquilegia-like foliage. One of the earliest Geraniums, phaeum Samabor, is showing dainty dark flowers above it’s smart darkly marked foliage.The overwintered Lupin’s and Digitalis are all looking full of promise and vigour with flower spikes starting on many.
Have a good one, from all at Kirton Farm Nurseries
Monday, 25 April 2016
Onward and Hairy
Morning all,
Bank holiday weekend coming up so hoping to see some more thrusting plant sales. The forecast for the coming weekend looked pretty bleak earlier but I’m not sure if it might not be too bad after all, fingers crossed.
Sad week with the passing of Victoria Wood and Prince, too young to leave us really. We saw Victoria Wood a couple of times live a long time ago, she was brilliant. Not only was she very funny but you felt she was speaking directly to you despite being in a huge theatre, a very talented, personable and unassuming lady, we’ll miss her.
Back on the nursery it’s been a busy week shipping out plenty of plants which is a relief after such a cool start. I’ve a feeling that even with the temperatures remaining low the plants have decided they are going to get on growing, whatever the weather does. We get the same response in the cold store when we give our micropropagated hostas their cold dormancy period. We can keep the temperature low and the lights off but when they have had enough they just start growing anyway, they won’t hold back any more they’re off.
First swallow here on Monday and Tuesday, exciting, now flown off, disappointing. ‘One swallow ....’ and all that!
Availability highlights
Lots of plants beginning to show a nice spring flush of growth now as the season progresses, even with the temperatures still not doing a lot. Still got some fantastic Pulsatilla’s which have come through very strongly now, really great plants, our best ever with plenty of bud and the odd opening flower. The red and purple forms are particularly impressive. Why not make a show and get in a few trays while they are at their best.
Dicentra spectabilis are looking great and probably at their best, shoots bushy and are nicely above the surface and buds with a bit of colour already showing on this fleshy exotic. The Bergenia’s are doing their thing, Bressingham White are now producing their springtime bud and the odd flash of colour and a handful of Sunningdale left, but not huge numbers left. Dark Damsel is a small leaved variety with pale to mid pink flowers.Brunnera are showing their early buds and flowers now, Delightful forget-me-not blue flowers heralding the spring. The variegated form are all gone now just the fresh green leaved ones left now. Be quick they don’t hang about long.
The ever popular Erysimum’s are doing really well. Two of the most popular varieties, Red Jep and Bowles Mauve, are looking great, dark green foliage, bushy with buds swelling. Fresh batches of Pastel Patchwork and Apricot Twist are now in bud again. Plenty of activity from some of the Primula’s now as spring approaches. The denticulata varieties are showing strong flower heads with plenty of bud and good colour in white, purple and violet red. The Primula japonica’s are looking really strong and the odd flower bud is just appearing in the crown of the white ones, so the others will be close behind. Caltha palustris are showing their early yellow buds among the healthy green shoots. White splashed leaves and lovely pale blue flowers still coming out on the charming Pulmonaria Opal. It seems early but Erigeron karvenskianus have already got bud showing, it will be a little while before they open but it’s a great plant, just going on and on, flowering the whole summer. Just a few Symphytum Wisley Blue left, nicely in bud/flower. Subtle pale blue flowers appear early every year. The little bright pink flowers of Erodium Bishops Form are now peppering the cushions of foliage looking perky. Leucanthemum May Queen as the name suggests is close to flowering, the buds are there ready to burst.The flower spikes of Veronica gentanoides are extending up from luxuriant fresh green foliage, ready to display their delightful powder blue flowers.
One of the earliest Geraniums, phaeum Samabor, is showing it’s dainty dark flowers above it’s smart darkly marked foliage. Heuchera varieties Firefly and Ruby Bells are both producing numerous flower stems with plenty of bud. The overwintered Lupin’s and Digitalis are all looking full of promise and vigour. Many of the Aquilegia are now producing their flower stems, raring to go.
Did I mention how good the red and purple Pulsatilla still are at the moment, I wouldn’t want you to miss out?
Have a good one, from all at Kirton Farm Nurseries
Bank holiday weekend coming up so hoping to see some more thrusting plant sales. The forecast for the coming weekend looked pretty bleak earlier but I’m not sure if it might not be too bad after all, fingers crossed.
Sad week with the passing of Victoria Wood and Prince, too young to leave us really. We saw Victoria Wood a couple of times live a long time ago, she was brilliant. Not only was she very funny but you felt she was speaking directly to you despite being in a huge theatre, a very talented, personable and unassuming lady, we’ll miss her.
Back on the nursery it’s been a busy week shipping out plenty of plants which is a relief after such a cool start. I’ve a feeling that even with the temperatures remaining low the plants have decided they are going to get on growing, whatever the weather does. We get the same response in the cold store when we give our micropropagated hostas their cold dormancy period. We can keep the temperature low and the lights off but when they have had enough they just start growing anyway, they won’t hold back any more they’re off.
First swallow here on Monday and Tuesday, exciting, now flown off, disappointing. ‘One swallow ....’ and all that!
Availability highlights
Lots of plants beginning to show a nice spring flush of growth now as the season progresses, even with the temperatures still not doing a lot. Still got some fantastic Pulsatilla’s which have come through very strongly now, really great plants, our best ever with plenty of bud and the odd opening flower. The red and purple forms are particularly impressive. Why not make a show and get in a few trays while they are at their best.
Dicentra spectabilis are looking great and probably at their best, shoots bushy and are nicely above the surface and buds with a bit of colour already showing on this fleshy exotic. The Bergenia’s are doing their thing, Bressingham White are now producing their springtime bud and the odd flash of colour and a handful of Sunningdale left, but not huge numbers left. Dark Damsel is a small leaved variety with pale to mid pink flowers.Brunnera are showing their early buds and flowers now, Delightful forget-me-not blue flowers heralding the spring. The variegated form are all gone now just the fresh green leaved ones left now. Be quick they don’t hang about long.
The ever popular Erysimum’s are doing really well. Two of the most popular varieties, Red Jep and Bowles Mauve, are looking great, dark green foliage, bushy with buds swelling. Fresh batches of Pastel Patchwork and Apricot Twist are now in bud again. Plenty of activity from some of the Primula’s now as spring approaches. The denticulata varieties are showing strong flower heads with plenty of bud and good colour in white, purple and violet red. The Primula japonica’s are looking really strong and the odd flower bud is just appearing in the crown of the white ones, so the others will be close behind. Caltha palustris are showing their early yellow buds among the healthy green shoots. White splashed leaves and lovely pale blue flowers still coming out on the charming Pulmonaria Opal. It seems early but Erigeron karvenskianus have already got bud showing, it will be a little while before they open but it’s a great plant, just going on and on, flowering the whole summer. Just a few Symphytum Wisley Blue left, nicely in bud/flower. Subtle pale blue flowers appear early every year. The little bright pink flowers of Erodium Bishops Form are now peppering the cushions of foliage looking perky. Leucanthemum May Queen as the name suggests is close to flowering, the buds are there ready to burst.The flower spikes of Veronica gentanoides are extending up from luxuriant fresh green foliage, ready to display their delightful powder blue flowers.
One of the earliest Geraniums, phaeum Samabor, is showing it’s dainty dark flowers above it’s smart darkly marked foliage. Heuchera varieties Firefly and Ruby Bells are both producing numerous flower stems with plenty of bud. The overwintered Lupin’s and Digitalis are all looking full of promise and vigour. Many of the Aquilegia are now producing their flower stems, raring to go.
Did I mention how good the red and purple Pulsatilla still are at the moment, I wouldn’t want you to miss out?
Have a good one, from all at Kirton Farm Nurseries
Tuesday, 19 April 2016
Hairy Hats
Morning all,
Not much room for news this week with plenty of stock coming into flower.
A slight pause in sales after a disappointing weekends weather lulled me into a false sense of have plenty of time this week, and now it’s Friday. The warmer weather over the few days did bring a flurry of late sales which made us feel better but stopped me getting as much potting done as I had hoped, still at least there is some income coming in soon.
Luckily the quieter week coincided with several social events, Railsplitters, a bluegrass band from Colorado in the village hall, a 70th birthday bash on Sunday where I had to get my 4 lane Scalextric set going as part of the entertainment, jive dancing on Tuesday and ending the week with a brilliant gig in Andover with Hat Fitz and Cara Robinson. The only sad bit was the lack of bodies at the last gig, so much talent and entertainment going to waste, still we all had a good time.
Availability highlights
Lots of plants beginning to show a nice spring flush of growth now as the season progresses, even with the temperatures still not doing a lot. Excellent Pulsatilla’s have come through very strongly now, really great plants, our best ever with plenty of bud and the odd opening flower. The red and purple forms are particularly impressive, the white a little smaller and not quite as advanced on the flowering front. Get them while they are hot. Why not make a show and get in a few trays while they are at their best. Dicentra spectabilis are looking great and probably at their best, shoots bushy and are nicely above the surface and buds with a bit of colour already showing on this fleshy exotic. Two forms at the moment, the classic pink/white and the pure white. We hope to have the dramatic yellow leaved variety Goldheart a little later, assuming it does as it should.
The Bergenia Bressingham White are now producing their springtime bud and the odd flash of colour, but not huge numbers left. Brunnera are showing their early buds and flowers now, delightful forget-me-not blue flowers heralding the spring. We have two forms, the green leaved and the variegated both equally dashing. Be quick they don’t hang about long. The ever popular Erysimum’s are doing really well. Two of the most popular varieties, Red Jep and Bowles Mauve, are looking great, dark green foliage, bushy with buds swelling. Fresh batches of Pastel Patchwork and Apricot Twist are now in bud again.
Plenty of activity from some of the Primula’s now as spring approaches. The denticulata varieties are showing strong flower heads with plenty of bud and good colour in white, purple and violet red.
Caltha palustris are showing their early yellow buds amoung the healthy green shoots.
White splashed leaves and lovely pale blue flowers still coming out on the charming Pulmonaria Opal.
It seems early but Erigeron karvenskianus have already got bud showing, it will be a little while before they open but it’s a great plant, just going on and on, flowering the whole summer.
Just a few Symphytum Wisley Blue left, nicely in bud/flower. Subtle pale blue flowers appear early every year. The little bright pink flowers of Erodium Bishops Form are now peppering the cushions of foliage looking perky. Leucanthemum May Queen as the name suggests is close to flowering, the buds are there ready to burst. The flower spikes of Veronica gentanoides are extending up from luxuriant fresh green foliage, ready to display their delightful powder blue flowers.
One of the earliest Geraniums, phaeum Samabor, is showing it’s dainty dark flowers above it’s smart darkly marked foliage. Heuchera varieties Firefly and Ruby Bells are both producing numerous flower stems with plenty of bud. The overwintered Lupin’s, Digitalis and Delph’s are all looking full of promise and vigour. Monster Lupins, particularly pleased with these. Aquilegia are showing signs of the occasional flower stem, a little way off colour yet but raring to go. Did I mention how good the red and purple Pulsatilla are at the moment, I wouldn’t want you to miss out! There are a few new lines this week showing signs of flowering, so watch out for those.
Have a good one, from all at Kirton Farm Nurseries
Not much room for news this week with plenty of stock coming into flower.
A slight pause in sales after a disappointing weekends weather lulled me into a false sense of have plenty of time this week, and now it’s Friday. The warmer weather over the few days did bring a flurry of late sales which made us feel better but stopped me getting as much potting done as I had hoped, still at least there is some income coming in soon.
Luckily the quieter week coincided with several social events, Railsplitters, a bluegrass band from Colorado in the village hall, a 70th birthday bash on Sunday where I had to get my 4 lane Scalextric set going as part of the entertainment, jive dancing on Tuesday and ending the week with a brilliant gig in Andover with Hat Fitz and Cara Robinson. The only sad bit was the lack of bodies at the last gig, so much talent and entertainment going to waste, still we all had a good time.
Availability highlights
Lots of plants beginning to show a nice spring flush of growth now as the season progresses, even with the temperatures still not doing a lot. Excellent Pulsatilla’s have come through very strongly now, really great plants, our best ever with plenty of bud and the odd opening flower. The red and purple forms are particularly impressive, the white a little smaller and not quite as advanced on the flowering front. Get them while they are hot. Why not make a show and get in a few trays while they are at their best. Dicentra spectabilis are looking great and probably at their best, shoots bushy and are nicely above the surface and buds with a bit of colour already showing on this fleshy exotic. Two forms at the moment, the classic pink/white and the pure white. We hope to have the dramatic yellow leaved variety Goldheart a little later, assuming it does as it should.
The Bergenia Bressingham White are now producing their springtime bud and the odd flash of colour, but not huge numbers left. Brunnera are showing their early buds and flowers now, delightful forget-me-not blue flowers heralding the spring. We have two forms, the green leaved and the variegated both equally dashing. Be quick they don’t hang about long. The ever popular Erysimum’s are doing really well. Two of the most popular varieties, Red Jep and Bowles Mauve, are looking great, dark green foliage, bushy with buds swelling. Fresh batches of Pastel Patchwork and Apricot Twist are now in bud again.
Plenty of activity from some of the Primula’s now as spring approaches. The denticulata varieties are showing strong flower heads with plenty of bud and good colour in white, purple and violet red.
Caltha palustris are showing their early yellow buds amoung the healthy green shoots.
White splashed leaves and lovely pale blue flowers still coming out on the charming Pulmonaria Opal.
It seems early but Erigeron karvenskianus have already got bud showing, it will be a little while before they open but it’s a great plant, just going on and on, flowering the whole summer.
Just a few Symphytum Wisley Blue left, nicely in bud/flower. Subtle pale blue flowers appear early every year. The little bright pink flowers of Erodium Bishops Form are now peppering the cushions of foliage looking perky. Leucanthemum May Queen as the name suggests is close to flowering, the buds are there ready to burst. The flower spikes of Veronica gentanoides are extending up from luxuriant fresh green foliage, ready to display their delightful powder blue flowers.
One of the earliest Geraniums, phaeum Samabor, is showing it’s dainty dark flowers above it’s smart darkly marked foliage. Heuchera varieties Firefly and Ruby Bells are both producing numerous flower stems with plenty of bud. The overwintered Lupin’s, Digitalis and Delph’s are all looking full of promise and vigour. Monster Lupins, particularly pleased with these. Aquilegia are showing signs of the occasional flower stem, a little way off colour yet but raring to go. Did I mention how good the red and purple Pulsatilla are at the moment, I wouldn’t want you to miss out! There are a few new lines this week showing signs of flowering, so watch out for those.
Have a good one, from all at Kirton Farm Nurseries
Monday, 11 April 2016
Lovely Hairy Pulsatillas
Morning all,
Spring is trying hard to get going, We’ve had the odd glorious day but it’s only in snatches, still need the fleece most days. Not quite perfect selling weather but not too bad for the plants. Orders picked up a bit this week after a very pleasant weekend outside, a taste of the spring madness to come. Already clearing a few tunnels ready for the next crop, potting well underway for all those follow on crops.
The finger is now almost fully recovered although I did give myself a bit of a scare last weekend. I was just using a spare hour or two to re-lay the slab path around the new wooden staff room, taking out the steps and wobbles to make a safer surface for all. Somehow I managed to drop a 2 x 2 slab on the finger, I had tried to pull it out of the way but it caught and got trapped underneath, the sharp pain made my heart sink but luckily it was just the elastic strap of the finger cover breaking and twanging against the inner wrist. The splint held firm and I escaped with just my pride hurt.
Looking forward to the bank balance dropping back from the limit, we are getting closer as some of the cash starts rolling in from all those earlier plant sales. We can’t quite relax yet, still a few weeks to go before things even up and we pay off back log of bills to one or two very understanding suppliers, maybe this year we will have some left for the winter, there is always hope and the coming year is always full of promise! What would help a bit is everyone buying enormous numbers of those lovely flowering Pulsatilla’s, they look fabulous in those hairy pots. A treat not to be missed.
If anyone needs any extra or a few spare label skewers or wooden price labels do let us know and we can send a few along with your next order. I know they can occasionally break under the strain of plant area life and it might be nice to get everything ship shape again. We are just ordering our next batch of the bamboo skewers from China so that will keep us going for another year or so. We have to buy a lot to get them made to our spec, at a sensible price. They might not look it but they are bespoke, the right end shape and length for the label and specially blunted tips make them just right for a very specific job. Is it slightly sad to be proud of a bamboo skewer?
Availability highlights
Lots of plants beginning to show a nice spring flush of growth now as the season progresses, even with the temperatures still not doing a lot. Excellent Pulsatilla’s have come through very strongly now, really great plants, our best ever with plenty of bud and the odd opening flower. The red and purple forms are particularly impressive, the white a little smaller and not quite as advanced on the flowering front. Get them while they are hot. Why not make a show and get in a few trays while they are at their best.
Brunnera are showing their early buds and flowers now, Delightful forget-me-not blue flowers heralding the spring. We have two forms, the green leaved and the variegated both equally dashing. Be quick they don’t hang about long. The ever popular Erysimum’s are doing really well. Two of the most popular varieties, Red Jep and Bowles Mauve, are looking great, dark green foliage, bushy with buds swelling. The Bowles Mauve are showing a little colour as the first buds open, this variety just goes on and on flowering until the frosts. Fresh batches of Pastel Patchwork and Apricot Twist are now in bud again. Signs of activity from some of the Primula’s now as spring approaches. The denticulata varieties are showing strong flower heads with plenty of bud and good colour in white, purple and violet red. Dicentra spectabilis shoots are appearing above the surface now, buds already showing on this fleshy exotic. Two forms at the moment, the pink/white and the pure white. We hope to have the dramatic yellow leaved variety Goldheart a little later, assuming it does as it should. White splashed leaves and lovely pale blue flowers still coming out on the charming Pulmonaria Opal. Just a few Symphytum Wisley Blue left, nicely in bud/flower. Subtle pale blue flowers appear early every year.
The overwintered Lupin’s, Digitalis and Delph’s are all looking full of promise and vigour. Monster Lupins, particularly pleased with these. Aquilegia are showing signs of the occasional flower stem, a little way off colour yet but raring to go.Did I mention how good the red and purple Pulsatilla are at the moment, I wouldn’t want you to miss out! There are a few new lines this week showing signs of flowering, so watch out for those.
Have a good one, from all at Kirton Farm Nurseries
Spring is trying hard to get going, We’ve had the odd glorious day but it’s only in snatches, still need the fleece most days. Not quite perfect selling weather but not too bad for the plants. Orders picked up a bit this week after a very pleasant weekend outside, a taste of the spring madness to come. Already clearing a few tunnels ready for the next crop, potting well underway for all those follow on crops.
The finger is now almost fully recovered although I did give myself a bit of a scare last weekend. I was just using a spare hour or two to re-lay the slab path around the new wooden staff room, taking out the steps and wobbles to make a safer surface for all. Somehow I managed to drop a 2 x 2 slab on the finger, I had tried to pull it out of the way but it caught and got trapped underneath, the sharp pain made my heart sink but luckily it was just the elastic strap of the finger cover breaking and twanging against the inner wrist. The splint held firm and I escaped with just my pride hurt.
Looking forward to the bank balance dropping back from the limit, we are getting closer as some of the cash starts rolling in from all those earlier plant sales. We can’t quite relax yet, still a few weeks to go before things even up and we pay off back log of bills to one or two very understanding suppliers, maybe this year we will have some left for the winter, there is always hope and the coming year is always full of promise! What would help a bit is everyone buying enormous numbers of those lovely flowering Pulsatilla’s, they look fabulous in those hairy pots. A treat not to be missed.
If anyone needs any extra or a few spare label skewers or wooden price labels do let us know and we can send a few along with your next order. I know they can occasionally break under the strain of plant area life and it might be nice to get everything ship shape again. We are just ordering our next batch of the bamboo skewers from China so that will keep us going for another year or so. We have to buy a lot to get them made to our spec, at a sensible price. They might not look it but they are bespoke, the right end shape and length for the label and specially blunted tips make them just right for a very specific job. Is it slightly sad to be proud of a bamboo skewer?
Availability highlights
Lots of plants beginning to show a nice spring flush of growth now as the season progresses, even with the temperatures still not doing a lot. Excellent Pulsatilla’s have come through very strongly now, really great plants, our best ever with plenty of bud and the odd opening flower. The red and purple forms are particularly impressive, the white a little smaller and not quite as advanced on the flowering front. Get them while they are hot. Why not make a show and get in a few trays while they are at their best.
Brunnera are showing their early buds and flowers now, Delightful forget-me-not blue flowers heralding the spring. We have two forms, the green leaved and the variegated both equally dashing. Be quick they don’t hang about long. The ever popular Erysimum’s are doing really well. Two of the most popular varieties, Red Jep and Bowles Mauve, are looking great, dark green foliage, bushy with buds swelling. The Bowles Mauve are showing a little colour as the first buds open, this variety just goes on and on flowering until the frosts. Fresh batches of Pastel Patchwork and Apricot Twist are now in bud again. Signs of activity from some of the Primula’s now as spring approaches. The denticulata varieties are showing strong flower heads with plenty of bud and good colour in white, purple and violet red. Dicentra spectabilis shoots are appearing above the surface now, buds already showing on this fleshy exotic. Two forms at the moment, the pink/white and the pure white. We hope to have the dramatic yellow leaved variety Goldheart a little later, assuming it does as it should. White splashed leaves and lovely pale blue flowers still coming out on the charming Pulmonaria Opal. Just a few Symphytum Wisley Blue left, nicely in bud/flower. Subtle pale blue flowers appear early every year.
The overwintered Lupin’s, Digitalis and Delph’s are all looking full of promise and vigour. Monster Lupins, particularly pleased with these. Aquilegia are showing signs of the occasional flower stem, a little way off colour yet but raring to go.Did I mention how good the red and purple Pulsatilla are at the moment, I wouldn’t want you to miss out! There are a few new lines this week showing signs of flowering, so watch out for those.
Have a good one, from all at Kirton Farm Nurseries
Wednesday, 6 April 2016
Hairy wind
Here we go again,
Bit of a disappointing Easter, fabulous Friday but a bit rough over the rest of the weekend. All those destination centres really needed some nice weather for full on Easter fun so my sympathies are with you all. Still it’s been an improving picture this week and the coming weekend isn’t looking to shabby down here so plenty of opportunities to make up on the lost time and plant sales.
We had a pretty wild and windy night on Sunday and into Monday morning as storm Katie shot through. Not too much damage this end although it was strong enough to cause the turbines to stop a couple of times as the gusts went over the safety thresholds. Luckily there were no wing tip deployments so no trip up the towers for Caroline to reset those this time, after a few minutes once the wind dropped a bit they restarted themselves.
The second load of potting compost arrived this week (enough for about 60,000 pots) so we must have potted a lot. Looking in the prop tunnels there still seems to be plenty to do, I hope I haven’t got over-excited again on my potting plans. We over-wintered some mega big modules this year so we should get some really chunky strong stock into those hairy pots, I love to see loads of healthy, rampantly strong plants leaving despatch, it isn’t always easy or cheap to achieve but it makes us feel good. We’ll worry about the bank balance next winter when the money runs out again! Broken finger progress is good, still splinted up for protection during the day but overall not holding me back too much. I seem to have developed a tick/twitch in it as I use the computer mouse which has been a challenge at times. It sticks out to the right as I work and keeps right clicking for me. All sorts of things have been happening apparently beyond my control it’s quite distressing what can be done on that button. Funny a first then frustrating. Having watched the excellent programmes over the last couple of weeks about the Tourettes affected folk trying to find work I’m wondering if I’m heading that way, let’s hope not, that degree of loss of brain control is scary.
Swallows over Cornwall already so summer is just around the corner. Skylarks are singing and tadpoles growing, get out there and celebrate the spring.
Availability highlights
Lots of plants beginning to show a nice spring flush of growth now as the season progresses, even with the temperatures not doing a lot.
Excellent Pulsatilla’s have come through really strongly now, with plenty of bud and the odd opening flower. The red and purple forms are particularly impressive. Get them while they are hot. Brunnera are showing their early buds and flowers now, Delightful forget-me-not blue dainty things heralding the spring. We have two forms, the green leaved and the variegated both equally dashing. Be quick they don’t hang about long.
The ever popular Erysimum’s are doing really well. Two of the most popular varieties, Red Jep and Bowles Mauve, are looking great, dark green foliage, bushy with bud showing. The Bowles Mauve are showing a little colour as the first buds open, this variety just goes on and on flowering until the frosts. Fresh batches of Pastel Patchwork and Apricot Twist will be in bud again very soon keep an ear out.
Polemonium Heaven Scent shows great early colour in the garden and the flower shoots and buds are just appearing above the lovely bronzed green foliage. Signs of activity from some of the Primula’s now as spring approaches. The denticulata varieties are showing their early buds and the odd splash of colour.
White splashed leaves and lovely pale blue flowers still coming on the Pulmonaria Opal. Still have a few Symphytum Wisley Blue left in bud/flower. Subtle pale blue flowers appear early every year.
The overwintered Lupin’s, Digitalis and Delph’s are all looking full of promise and vigour. Monster Lupins, very pleased with these.Not sure if I should mention Lathyrus vernus they are going to disappear so quick and I don’t have a huge number. We were experimenting with timings etc to get a flowering neat crop so I didn’t order too many, just in case, but they are ok and in flower now, but don’t tell anyone please. This is a reward for those who read to the very bottom!
Have a good one, from all at Kirton Farm Nurseries
Bit of a disappointing Easter, fabulous Friday but a bit rough over the rest of the weekend. All those destination centres really needed some nice weather for full on Easter fun so my sympathies are with you all. Still it’s been an improving picture this week and the coming weekend isn’t looking to shabby down here so plenty of opportunities to make up on the lost time and plant sales.
We had a pretty wild and windy night on Sunday and into Monday morning as storm Katie shot through. Not too much damage this end although it was strong enough to cause the turbines to stop a couple of times as the gusts went over the safety thresholds. Luckily there were no wing tip deployments so no trip up the towers for Caroline to reset those this time, after a few minutes once the wind dropped a bit they restarted themselves.
The second load of potting compost arrived this week (enough for about 60,000 pots) so we must have potted a lot. Looking in the prop tunnels there still seems to be plenty to do, I hope I haven’t got over-excited again on my potting plans. We over-wintered some mega big modules this year so we should get some really chunky strong stock into those hairy pots, I love to see loads of healthy, rampantly strong plants leaving despatch, it isn’t always easy or cheap to achieve but it makes us feel good. We’ll worry about the bank balance next winter when the money runs out again! Broken finger progress is good, still splinted up for protection during the day but overall not holding me back too much. I seem to have developed a tick/twitch in it as I use the computer mouse which has been a challenge at times. It sticks out to the right as I work and keeps right clicking for me. All sorts of things have been happening apparently beyond my control it’s quite distressing what can be done on that button. Funny a first then frustrating. Having watched the excellent programmes over the last couple of weeks about the Tourettes affected folk trying to find work I’m wondering if I’m heading that way, let’s hope not, that degree of loss of brain control is scary.
Swallows over Cornwall already so summer is just around the corner. Skylarks are singing and tadpoles growing, get out there and celebrate the spring.
Availability highlights
Lots of plants beginning to show a nice spring flush of growth now as the season progresses, even with the temperatures not doing a lot.
Excellent Pulsatilla’s have come through really strongly now, with plenty of bud and the odd opening flower. The red and purple forms are particularly impressive. Get them while they are hot. Brunnera are showing their early buds and flowers now, Delightful forget-me-not blue dainty things heralding the spring. We have two forms, the green leaved and the variegated both equally dashing. Be quick they don’t hang about long.
The ever popular Erysimum’s are doing really well. Two of the most popular varieties, Red Jep and Bowles Mauve, are looking great, dark green foliage, bushy with bud showing. The Bowles Mauve are showing a little colour as the first buds open, this variety just goes on and on flowering until the frosts. Fresh batches of Pastel Patchwork and Apricot Twist will be in bud again very soon keep an ear out.
Polemonium Heaven Scent shows great early colour in the garden and the flower shoots and buds are just appearing above the lovely bronzed green foliage. Signs of activity from some of the Primula’s now as spring approaches. The denticulata varieties are showing their early buds and the odd splash of colour.
White splashed leaves and lovely pale blue flowers still coming on the Pulmonaria Opal. Still have a few Symphytum Wisley Blue left in bud/flower. Subtle pale blue flowers appear early every year.
The overwintered Lupin’s, Digitalis and Delph’s are all looking full of promise and vigour. Monster Lupins, very pleased with these.Not sure if I should mention Lathyrus vernus they are going to disappear so quick and I don’t have a huge number. We were experimenting with timings etc to get a flowering neat crop so I didn’t order too many, just in case, but they are ok and in flower now, but don’t tell anyone please. This is a reward for those who read to the very bottom!
Have a good one, from all at Kirton Farm Nurseries
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