The bad weather has affected potato growing this summer, say Bracknell Horticultural Association
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Weather makes it a testing time for gardeners
By Andy MaxwellAugust 31, 2012
It has been another year of contrasts for gardeners in the town.
The weather has been impossible to second guess – March was a record-breaking month for temperatures, ushering in water restrictions across the south east region.
But from the day hosepipe bans were introduced we had the wettest April on record.
Early blight and the wet had an adverse impact on crops of potatoes and onions, courgette plants were stunted, beans were late and the increased number of slugs had lush growth to feast on.
But these are the trials that test gardeners and, if anything, we thrive on it – it gives us a chance to think about what we could do better next year.
The association was fortunate to have had a programme of speakers who passed on a wealth of knowledge to assist in climbing the horticultural heights. Highlights included Charles Dowding and his ‘no-dig’ technique and Harvey Stephens, head of Savill Garden, talking about the RHS. For the coming year we have another full programme of diverse guests and events.
Given the summer we’ve experienced we are pleased to welcome Dr Simon Thornton-Wood in October who will be talking about gardening, weather and climate.
We also have our popular pumpkin competition, Marrowthon, and garden historian Russell Bowes taking us into the darker world of The Devil’s Garden.
As a voluntary organisation dedicated to Bracknell’s gardeners, new members are finding us every month.
In the past 12 months we have seen our membership more than double – we now have an expanded committee and still seek to recruit an allotments advisor, horticultural advisor, assistant treasurer, and minutes secretary.
If you have anything to offer in these roles, contact Margaret by email at membership.bha@gmail.com , Andy at events.bha@gmail.com or visit www.digforbracknell.org.uk
The association’s annual meeting is on Wednesday, September 5, at 7.30pm at Coopers Hill Youth and Community Centre, Crowthorne Road North, Bracknell.
Thinking of getting out in the garden this weekend? See our three-day forecast below.
This Weather Widget is provided by the Met Office
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Most recent user comments 4 of 4
31/08/2012 at 21:52 Offensive or Inappropriate?
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In the garden it hasn't been much better - lost a lot new planting due to the increase in slugs. Usually the Thrushes, Voles, and Frogs help keep them down.
But Beans have gone mad! And pumpkins - all good for Marrowthon in October.
31/08/2012 at 11:27 Offensive or Inappropriate?
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Having an amazing crop of raspberries though....and the weeds are doing just great!!!! lol
Glad Im not the only one.
31/08/2012 at 11:11 Offensive or Inappropriate?
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September 5th is our AGM and all are welcome. We have guest speaker Adrian Thompson giving a talk on Gardening For Wildlife.
If you want to become part of the new committee - then get in touch.
31/08/2012 at 10:50 Offensive or Inappropriate?
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