March welcomes a glimpse of spring, with brighter and longer days arriving and (we hope) a bit of sun. After a winter of maintenance, our Estates Team prepare to plant spring bulbs, bring colour back to the estate and get ready for their annual Hanging Basket Workshop in May. We caught up with Estate Manager, Kevin Sweet, for his tips to take to the garden for the season. Whether you're a seasoned professional or discovering the art of horticulture for the first time, we hope that Kevin's gardening advice can provide something new for you!
For those who haven't visited Ashdown Park before, how would you describe the character of the gardens, and what makes the estate so special to work on?
We have 186 acres of estate to explore, including woodlands, ponds, formal gardens, the 18-hole golf course and lots of mature trees. This allows us to provide interest to visitors all year round. I don't think the team will ever get bored with the exciting sight of fallow deer, who are free to roam the estate - look out for them in the early mornings, it is truly special.
March can feel like a transition month in the world of gardening - what are the first jobs that you and the team tackle as winter fades?
With the soil warming up in March, it is a good time to start sowing annual seeds outside. If it's dry, we also begin to do a light cut on the lawns, just to top the grass. Finally, we ensure fruit trees on the estate are pruned and ready to bear apples.
What are the most common mistakes people make when getting excited about spring gardening too early?
One weekend of sun can often make us think that spring has arrived. However, as we have seen recently, the temperatures in early spring can sometimes drop again, bringing frost. Don't be tempted to put out any summer bedding plants until the chance of frost has fully passed. It's also wise to stay off soft ground if it is still too wet.
What simple steps can make the biggest difference in preparing for planting?
When planting trees and shrubs, it is important to prepare the planting hole, making sure it is large enough for the plant. Add some planting compost to the soil, mix it in, and water well after planting to keep it from drying out.
How can gardeners plan now to ensure colour and interest carry right through spring to summer?
We recommend planting different species of plants in containers to prolong the flowering season, they will likely bloom at different times. When flowers do fade, remove their heads to encourage new growth, and enjoy them all over again.
If you could give just three planting tips to home gardeners, what would they be?
1. Choose the plant based on it's location - sunlight and soil are the key factors to consider.
2. Tender loving care will ensure a healthy plant.
3. When making your plans, consider the long term care you can give it - pruning, training and staking.
What should people consider when choosing plants for containers vs borders?
Plants in containers will have limited access to nutrients once the container is full of roots (root bound). Regular fertiliser applications are required. Plants in borders will have easier access to soil nutrients but can spread more easily.
How can gardeners create impact in smaller spaces?
My favourite way to make an impact in a small space is to just focus on a few different architectural/specimen plants. Too many plants in a small space can result in overcrowding, sometimes less is more.
Hanging baskets are a real feature at Ashdown Park - what do you think makes a basket truly stand out?
A good hanging basket starts with good quality plants and compost, preferably with a wetting agent added. Also, add a few slow-release fertiliser tablets to the compost. Once the plants start to flower, feed the basket with a balanced liquid feed.
Without giving too much away, what can guests expect to learn from your hanging basket workshop in May?
Apart from being a fun afternoon, I hope our guests leave not only with their own creations but a few tips on how to have a hanging basket that will provide colour and interest for the whole summer. It is all about the joy of planting, growing and caring for the plants and enjoying when you see a basket in full bloom, knowing that you created that!
Are the workshops suitable for all gardeners - complete beginners to experienced planters?
Absolutely, the workshops are beginner-friendly! Saying that, even as an experienced gardener myself, I really enjoy listening to our guests' experiences with hanging baskets and their general gardening. I learn new things about gardening every time, so it is a perfect opportunity to speak to other enthusiasts.
Join Kevin and his team in May (26th - 28th) for daily Hanging Basket Workshops, for the opportunity to put these skills into practice!