Broom plants are interesting and attractive additions to the garden. The flowers can be a mix of yellow, red, pink and orange. One thing to note is that they are toxic to humans and pets. In the right conditions they grow at a fast rate. If they are situated incorrectly however, they can decline and … Read more
The tree or shrub known as Photinia Red Robin is a brilliant addition to the garden. Not only is it evergreen, but the white flowers and bright red hues of the foliage in spring and summer provide a fabulous colour splash to borders. Despite being evergreen, a small amount of leaf drop is normal. If … Read more
Camellia plants are beautiful glossy evergreen shrubs with large blowsy flowers in winter and early spring. At a time when much of the garden is still asleep, Camellias provide wonderful coverage and colour. They can sometimes struggle when growing conditions are not right for them. An early sign can be the curling of leaves. So … Read more
Broad beans, or Fava beans as they are also known, are nutritious and hardy beans that can be sown from early spring. Some varieties can also be sown in October if the soil is reasonably warm and sheltered. Despite being a resilient plant they can sometimes develop problems causing discoloration and stunted growth. So if … Read more
Monkey puzzle trees are fascinating plants. At their biggest they can reach 50 metres in height, and can live for up to 1000 years! Although they survive well in many locations, sometimes they can struggle if they do not have the right conditions for optimum growth. This can show in the discolouration of the spines … Read more
Bay trees are very fashionable at the moment and can often be found in pots outside smart restaurants. Although they grow quite well in pots, in the ground they can become very large. With dark green evergreen foliage and a herby savoury aroma they are not only a beautiful tree but useful in cooking too. … Read more
The Hornbeam is a beautiful deciduous hardwood tree. It has very ridged and serrated leaves that are bright green in spring and summer, turning yellow, orange and red through the autumn and into winter. Hornbeams are fairly hardy and resilient but can be susceptible to some infections and problems. So if you have asked the … Read more
Privet is very popular around the world as a boundary hedge. It is actually a member of the Olive family. Small clusters of white flowers arrive in spring, followed by small black berries that are inedible to humans but eaten by birds. Privets can suddenly decline however, so if you have asked the question “Why … Read more
The Rowan tree, otherwise known as Mountain Ash, is a stunning ornamental member of the Rosaceae family. This deciduous tree is common in the UK and other northern hemisphere locations. In autumn the leaves turn fantastic shades of red, orange and yellow. At this time the berries (edible to humans but only when cooked) are … Read more
Fatsia Japonicas are beautiful tropical looking plants that have large glossy evergreen leaves. They can be grown as houseplants or outside in the garden, and can become very large bushes. Factors can affect their health and appearance however, causing the plant to droop and suffer. In this article we identify these factors and find out … Read more