Fennscape

OCTOBER. What to do in the garden this month. Spread a general fertiliser like 3:1:5 (26) SR on shrubs, climbers and flowerbeds and water in thoroughly. Cut back old growth on arums and cannas, fork in manure and compost, and water thoroughly. Chrysanthemums that are sending out new growth should be pinched back to encourage side shoots and bushy growth. Even though this is the beginning of our rainy season, it is important to become more conscious of ways to conserve water wherever possible. Mulching reduces evaporation and the need for frequent watering during dry spells, and if this is spread in sufficient depth, it will smother most w**d seeds. Group plants that require similar water and shade requirements. What to sow and plant this month. Sow in situ, seeds of alyssum, candytuft, cosmos, lavatera, marigold, nasturtium, portulaca, sunflower and zinnia in a sunny position. Plant seedlings of amaranthus, bedding dahlias, celosia, and vinca in a sunny position. Plant seedlings of impatiens, bedding begonias and coleus in semi-shade, or light shade.