Tasks for February
Cuttings rooted early last month can be potted into smaller pots. After a week or two, give them their first stop to encourage the desired bushy growth.
Composts should be kept just moist until the roots start to fill the pots. Then more water can be given.
This month the days begin to draw out. If your plants are in a greenhouse spray stems with tepid water to soften the wood and encourage the growth of new shoots. Now, more than ever, you should keep an eye out for pests. Plants that are clear one day can be covered with aphids the next. Prevention is better than cure so spray with an insecticide fortnightly, but remember to vary the types of spray as resistance is soon built up. If you don’t wish to use chemicals use soft soap (Stergene) at the rate of a cupful to two gallons of water. Do not use washing up liquid as these contain chemicals that may be harmful to the plants. When the pests have been eradicated rinse the plant with fresh water to stop the pores getting blocked. Now is the time that a few cuttings may be taken if you have a heated greenhouse, or by using a propagator or windowsill (out of direct sun).
Friday, 19 February 2010
Tuesday, 19 January 2010
January - Fuchsia Year
Tasks for January
Young plants taken as cuttings during June and July will require occasional weak liquid feeding, potting on as the roots start to fill pots, and nipping further into shape. Care must be taken not to over-water during these short growing days. Tips that are removed can be used for cutting material to increase stock.
Check all plants whether under glass or stored any other way. Watering this month should be done very sparingly, ensure they are not over- watered. The compost should be kept fairly dry but do not allow it to dry out completely. In heated greenhouses spray plants every two weeks with a fungicide and keep the greenhouse well ventilated, even on the coldest of days. Cold, damp conditions and lack of good ventilation can have very serious consequences. The greenhouse glass should be kept clean and clear of any debris, thus allowing maximum light to enter. Your plants should be given a quick daily check, and a more thorough check once a week. Check that the heater and thermostat are working correctly.
Young plants taken as cuttings during June and July will require occasional weak liquid feeding, potting on as the roots start to fill pots, and nipping further into shape. Care must be taken not to over-water during these short growing days. Tips that are removed can be used for cutting material to increase stock.
Check all plants whether under glass or stored any other way. Watering this month should be done very sparingly, ensure they are not over- watered. The compost should be kept fairly dry but do not allow it to dry out completely. In heated greenhouses spray plants every two weeks with a fungicide and keep the greenhouse well ventilated, even on the coldest of days. Cold, damp conditions and lack of good ventilation can have very serious consequences. The greenhouse glass should be kept clean and clear of any debris, thus allowing maximum light to enter. Your plants should be given a quick daily check, and a more thorough check once a week. Check that the heater and thermostat are working correctly.
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