Latest news with #Hydrangea
Scottish Sun
14-06-2025
- General
- Scottish Sun
I'm a gardening pro – my easy steps – including a £2.25 Dunelm trick – will banish garden pests like aphids this summer
WE may well be seeing lower slug and snail numbers this summer thanks to colder weather in winter and the recent dry spells. But mother nature never makes it easy for us. Instead - of course - there's a new pest in town. 2 RHS members have found aphids to be the biggest problem this year Credit: Getty 2 Adam Woolcott told Sun Gardening how to get rid of garden pests Credit: Supplied Aphid levels have rocketed this year - and the RHS reckons it's top of the list of gardening queries to their hotline. There's over 500 different species found in the UK - and can be red, yellow, black, green, brown or pink. They feed by sucking sap from plants - and can cause severe damage - including distorted growth, sooty mould and plant viruses - and sometimes plant death. Chelsea award winning gardener Adam Woolcott - and Webb ambassador - gave Sun Gardening some top tips on how to tackle the most common early summer pests. APHIDS Physically remove the aphids from the stems and leaves. Use natural insecticidal soaps. Blast off with water jets. Encourage predators such as ladybirds, lacewings, and hoverflies VINE WEEVIL Both the adult vine weevil beetles and their larvae cause damage. Adults — all female — chew distinctive 'U-shaped' notches in leaves, particularly on evergreen shrubs like rhododendrons, escallonias, and viburnums. Underground: larvae feed on plant roots and can kill container plants like Heucheras. Remove adults at night when they're most active Break the life cycle with biological controls such as nematodes (apply in spring and autumn when grubs are active) Chemical treatments are a last resort, but offer longer-term control LILY BEETLE The bright red beetles and their larvae are both covered in their excrement. They can strip a plant in days, affecting flowering and bulb health. Remove beetles by hand where practical Encourage wildlife into the garden. Birds and ground beetles will eat the larvae Grow a resistant variety. Tolerate some damage if you can — total eradication isn't always necessary. CATERPILLARS Especially troublesome in veg patches. Cabbage white butterfly caterpillars love brassicas, while box tree caterpillars are spreading rapidly across the UK, stripping foliage as they go. Remove the caterpillars by hand if you can and destroy any badly affected plants (if practical) to stop the infestation from spreading. Use biological sprays like nematodes. In some cases, hot water and a mild detergent can help. Ecover is on sale at Dunelm for £2.45. As a last resort, chemical controls can be effective Also in Veronica's Column this week... Top tips, Gardening news, and a competition to win a £250 lawnmower NEWS KING Charles made a surprise visit to Windsor Flower Show last Saturday. Celebrities including Alex Jones and Kirsty Gallacher were at the one-day show - which had wonderful village fair vibes, vegetable and cake competitions and fantastic floral displays. TOP TIP JUNE is actually a good time to take Hydrangea cuttings - and get your own plants for free. They'll have produced some soft green growth - which is what you want. Choose healthy, non flowering shoots that are 10-15cm long and cut just below the node (the leaf joint). Don't collect cuttings from plants with leaves that are turning brown. And try to collect in the morning if you can. Remove the lower leaves - leaving just one or two at the top. Then dip the end in rooting powder or gel - then pop it straight in a pot. You could splash out on seeding and cutting compost - but multi purpose will do - just add a bit of grit or perlite. Then keep them out of direct sunlight and keep moist. They should have rooted within about a month. NEWS A RARE 'sheep-eating' South American plant has flowered in an English primary school for the first time. The Puya Chilensis, with its iconic spike pattern, is normally found in the Andes in Chile. But after it was planted 10 years ago by school horticulturalist Louise Moreton, it has sent out a 10ft spike at Wicor Primary School in Portchester, Hants. It's called a Sheep Catcher as it would normally entangle wildlife, hold onto it - and then when the animal died - would take the nutrients. Ms Moreton said it was exciting but a worrying sign of global warming. WIN! Keep your lawn looking its best this summer by winning a Webb Classic Self Propelled Petrol Lawn Mower worth £249.99. To enter visit or write to Sun Webb competition, PO Box 3190, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8GP. Include your name, age, email or phone. UK residents 18+ only. Entries close 11.59pm. July 5, 2025. T&Cs apply. TOP TIP IF you want to get more flowers from your sedums (now called Hylotelephiums) and prevent them from collapsing - pinch them out around now. Pinch off around four sets of leaves down - which will make them bushier. JOB OF THE WEEK Weeds thrive this month - keep on top of them by hoeing. Tie in sweet peas, and give your plants a good feed - liquid seaweed feed is great - and Tomorite works with nearly everything. Give agapanthus a high-potash feed every couple of weeks. For more top tips and gardening news, follow me @biros_and_bloom
13-06-2025
Touring Four Kamakura 'Hydrangea Temples'
Seasonal flowers bloom almost continuously throughout the year at Kamakura's temples and shrines. The most popular of these is undoubtedly the hydrangea, masses of which add color during the rainy season at the end of spring. The temple Meigetsuin in Kita-Kamakura is the forerunner of what are popularly called ajisaidera (hydrangea temples). Over 50 years ago, word of Meigetsuin's gorgeous stands of hydrangeas spread, and growing the shrubs became popular at temples and shrines throughout the country. Blue mophead hydrangea line Meigetsuin's stairs. (© Harada Hiroshi) The first stop of our tour of hydrangea temples is, naturally, Meigetsuin. This spot is highly popular even during the rainy season, when rain or overcast skies are frequent, so the best times to avoid the crowds are immediately after the temple opens in the morning, or in late afternoon, just before closing time. Nearly 2,500 mophead hydrangeas ( Hydrangea serrata ) in varying shades of blue known as 'Meigetsuin blue' fill the grounds, lending a cooling feeling to the air. The weathered stairs leading from the entrance to the temple's gate, lined on both sides with the blooms, are the temple's most visited attraction. Visitors here tend to focus on the hydrangeas, but the splendid garden behind the temple's main hall should not be overlooked. And at the front of the main hall, crimson azaleas bloom in the dry landscape garden, creating a wonderland of flowers. The temple's expansive iris garden, open when the flowers are in bloom. (© Harada Hiroshi) Next is the nearby temple Jōchiji. This renowned Zen institution is less well-known as a famed hydrangea spot, promising visitors enjoyment of the flowers in a more relaxed atmosphere. Lacecap hydrangeas at Jōchiji. (© Harada Hiroshi) Lacecap hydrangeas ( Hydrangea macrophylla ) bloom by the pond in front of the temple's main gate. The worn stairs leading to the belfry gate create a contrast between the ephemeral beauty of the blooms and the weight of the long history of this temple, founded in the late thirteenth century. Iwatabako ( Conandron ramondiodes ) can also be spotted blooming quietly amid rock faces. (© Harada Hiroshi) A Lesser-Known Spot Becomes a Meigetsuin Rival Nearly 2,000 stalks of mōsōchiku tortoise-shell bamboo ( Phyllostachys edulis ) occupy the grounds of Hōkokuji. (© Harada Hiroshi) The third stop on our tour is the temple Hōkokuji, in the east of the city. This temple is known for its beautiful bamboo groves, but connoisseurs also visit for its hydrangeas, which form an attractive combination with the bamboo and the moss-covered ground. Particularly striking are large hydrangea shrubs that act as a backdrop to the numerous stone buddhas dotted throughout the temple grounds. Pause here for matcha while admiring the bamboo groves to enjoy a quintessentially Japanese experience. Blue and purple blooms form a stunning backdrop to the stone statues. (© Harada Hiroshi) A short hop on the Enoden—the Enoshima Electric Railway—brings us to our last stop, the temple Hasedera, Meigetsuin's rival as a Kamakura ajisaidera . But in contrast to Meigetsuin, where only mophead hydrangeas are cultivated, Hasedera features over 40 different varieties of the blooming shrubs. Not only do they offer a medley of colors, the flowers also bloom at different times, offering a much longer viewing season. Nearly 2,500 hydrangeas shrubs bring color to this sloping terrain. (© Harada Hiroshi) Here too, the stairs lined with hydrangeas are the main attraction. Access is via queue numbers, so prior online reservations are recommended. At the top, the splendid panorama of the sandy Yuigahama shoreline unfolds in the distance, making Kamakura unique and unparalleled as the ancient capital with a view of the sea. The view greeting visitors at the top of the staircase's two hundred steps. (© Harada Hiroshi) (Originally published in Japanese. Banner photo: Hasedera's hydrangeas come in a myriad of colors. © Harada Hiroshi.)
Daily Mirror
05-06-2025
- General
- Daily Mirror
Gardeners urged to prune 10 plants now to ensure summer blooms
If you're looking forward to seeing your garden in bloom this summer, make sure you take time to prune these 10 plants to see them develop to their full potential Most garden -owners are anticipating a gorgeous display of blooms once summer is in full swing – but, beware, some flowers need to be pruned first. Pruning is a crucial task for the development of many plants, as it allows gardeners to sheer off any unwanted, damaged or dying blooms to make way for a much more robust blossom. This is because it forces the plant to redirect energy and nutrients to new blossoms. Equally, it helps prevent the spread of disease, as you can prune away any infected leaves, stems or blossoms. Of course, not all flowers or plants require pruning, so it's important to know which ones do. Luckily, Country Living have put together a list of 10 popular plants that need pruning before summer: Ornamental Grass This pluming grass is great at adding visual interest to your garden. To ensure it blooms to its full potential, prune it back by about two-thirds before summer kicks into full gear. Panicle Hydrangea Pruning hydrangeas will encourage fuller, healthier blossoms. Country Living advise to cut it back by about a third and to remove any weak or broken stems. Caryopteris While this plant is known for its gorgeous deep blue blossoms, it can become foliage-heavy if left untrimmed. You can cut them back by about 30 to 45 cm without harming them. Smooth Hydrangea Similar to the panicle variety, smooth hydrangeas should be pruned back by about a third to guarantee fresh, healthy growth and to remove any discoloured or unappealing blossoms. Russian Sage This hardy plant will grow back year after year if cared for properly. To get the best of its summer bloom, you can cut it all the way to the ground to allow fresh new growth to spring back up. Butterfly Bush These beautiful bright purple bushes are so-called because they attract butterflies. To maintain its bloom throughout the summer, Country Living advise to cut most of the plant back once blossoms start emerging. Otherwise, you can deadhead dull blossoms. Rose While roses are generally low maintenance, they will benefit from pruning before the summer hits. Country Living say you should cut them back by about a third "straight across". Lavender Many gardeners enjoy growing lavender for its delicately-scented purple blooms. However, if your plant needs sprucing up, you can prune it back. Though make sure not to cut into the woody stem and not to prune after buds have appeared. Catmint A cat's favourite plant, felines are irresistibly drawn to this flowery bush. It's not necessary to prune before summer but cutting away dead stems will improve its appearance. Boxwood While not absolutely necessary, pruning this evergreen bush can improve its appearance. Country Living write: "You can trim to shape it, or you can leave it more natural-looking and not prune, depending on your preference."
Scottish Sun
23-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Scottish Sun
Shoppers are racing to snap up bargain £5 hydrangeas from high street chain & they come in ‘all colours'
Plus, how to care for your hydrangeas FLOWER POWER Shoppers are racing to snap up bargain £5 hydrangeas from high street chain & they come in 'all colours' IF you want to add a splash of colour to your garden, you may wish to pop to B&M. One savvy shopper spotted how the bargain chain has been selling hydrangeas for £5 each. 5 B&M is selling £5 hydrangeas that could brighten up your garden Credit: tiktok/@livloves/ 5 There are numerous colours available, including a blue variety Credit: tiktok/@livloves/ Bargain hunter Liv, who posts under @livloves, uploaded a video from her local store and their vast collection of options. She wrote: 'Run to B&M for £5 hydrangeas in all colours.' From pretty blue options to bright pink and purple flowers, the store has a vast array of choices for your outdoor space. They also have white ones if you prefer a more neutral outdoor space. While they are just small sizes now, one gardening fan advised how they will grow 'massive' if you stick them in the ground. Alternatively you can put them in a large pot if you want them to expand. One shopper said their hydrangeas had tripled in size in just a month, so if you look after them properly you could end up with a beautiful display. Liv's video has racked up nearly 3,000 likes, and people seemed quick to want to snap up the hydrangeas for themselves. One said: 'I love hydrangea! Just require so much watering.' A second added: 'I know where I'm going tomorrow.' I'm a gardener, how to cut hydrangeas properly and the best time to do it this month, for full blooms next summer Meanwhile, a third joked: 'You won't catch me running anywhere but for a £5 hydrangea I would do a light jog.' Hydrangeas typically bloom from late spring to early autumn, depending on the climate and conditions. Typically any colour changes occur because of aluminum availability in the soil, with pink or red flowers thriving in neutral to alkaline soil with a pH of over 7.0, while blue ones prefer an acidic soil of under 6 pH. Hydrangeas are perennials, which means they come back year after year with the right care. They can live for decades, in the right conditions, meaning they could be a good long-term investment for your garden. 5 You can also pick up the plant in hot pink Credit: tiktok/@livloves/ 5 Alternatively they have a purple version available too Credit: tiktok/@livloves/ How to prune a Hydrangea The easiest way is to cut the dead bloom off the plant. Snip as far down as the next new buds on the stem, if these are visible or to wherever looks appropriate. For a more established plants you can cut old stems back to the base to encourage new growth. Use clean, sharp garden shears or scissors to ensure a clean cut and no damage to your plant. 5 If cared for correctly, hydrangeas will bloom year after year Credit: Getty New stems will not bloom until the following year. What happens if you don't cut back Hydrangeas? Hydrangeas can become congested if they are not pruned. They do not bloom as well if the stem is woody or dead. When you prune back your hydrangea you help it grow stronger for future buds. It also will look much nicer with all the browning flowers removed.
The Irish Sun
23-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Irish Sun
Shoppers are racing to snap up bargain £5 hydrangeas from high street chain & they come in ‘all colours'
IF you want to add a splash of colour to your garden, you may wish to pop to B&M. One savvy shopper spotted how the bargain chain has been selling Advertisement 5 B&M is selling £5 hydrangeas that could brighten up your garden Credit: tiktok/@livloves/ 5 There are numerous colours available, including a blue variety Credit: tiktok/@livloves/ Bargain hunter Liv, who posts under She wrote: 'Run to B&M for £5 hydrangeas in all colours.' From pretty blue options to bright pink and purple flowers, the store has a vast array of choices for your outdoor space. They also have white ones if you prefer a more neutral outdoor space. Advertisement More on gardening While they are just small sizes now, one gardening fan advised how they will grow 'massive' if you stick them in the ground. Alternatively you can put them in a large pot if you want them to expand. One shopper said their hydrangeas had tripled in size in just a month, so if you look after them properly you could end up with a beautiful display. Liv's video has racked up nearly 3,000 likes, and people seemed quick to want to snap up the hydrangeas for themselves. Advertisement Most read in Fabulous One said: 'I love hydrangea! Just require so much watering.' A second added: 'I know where I'm going tomorrow.' I'm a gardener, how to cut hydrangeas properly and the best time to do it this month, for full blooms next summer Meanwhile, a third joked: 'You won't catch me running anywhere but for a £5 hydrangea I would do a light jog.' Hydrangeas typically bloom from late spring to early autumn, depending on the climate and conditions. Advertisement Typically any colour changes occur because of aluminum availability in the soil, with pink or red flowers thriving in neutral to alkaline soil with a pH of over 7.0, while blue ones prefer an acidic soil of under 6 pH. Hydrangeas are perennials, which means they come back year after year with the right care. They can live for decades, in the right conditions, meaning they could be a good long-term investment for your garden. 5 You can also pick up the plant in hot pink Credit: tiktok/@livloves/ Advertisement 5 Alternatively they have a purple version available too Credit: tiktok/@livloves/ How to prune a Hydrangea The easiest way is to cut the dead bloom off the plant. Snip as far down as the next new buds on the stem, if these are visible or to wherever looks appropriate. For a more established plants you can cut old stems back to the base to encourage new growth. Advertisement Use clean, sharp garden shears or scissors to ensure a clean cut and no damage to your plant. 5 If cared for correctly, hydrangeas will bloom year after year Credit: Getty New stems will not bloom until the following year. What happens if you don't cut back Hydrangeas? Hydrangeas can become congested if they are not pruned. Advertisement They do not bloom as well if the stem is woody or dead. When you prune back your hydrangea you help it grow stronger for future buds. It also will look much nicer with all the browning flowers removed. 8 must-have plants to brighten up your garden Nick Hamilton owner of Tricyrtis A spectacular plant that gives a real exotic feel to any garden with its orchid-like, spotted flowers giving the impression that this plant should be tender but it is 'as tough as old boots!'. Penstemon I love this plants genus of because most will flower all summer and autumn. They'll grow in sun or semi-shade in a well drained soil and produce a non-stop display of tubular flowers in an array of colours and colour combination to suit all tastes. Luzula sylvatica 'Marginata' With the evergreen leaves edged with yellow it's great asset is that it will grow in sun or shade in any type of soil and is great as groundcover in the hardest spot to fill - dry shade. Eryngium x zabelii 'Big Blue' A stunning, nectar-rich plant that will feed the beneficial insects in your garden. Leave the flowerheads once they have turned brown because they look stunning with winter frost and snow, extending the plant's interest period. Sarcococca hookeriana 'Winter Gem' If you need winter scent then look no further than this compact, evergreen shrub. The scent is stunning and the evergreen leaves create an excellent backdrop for the summer flowers. Cornus sanguinea 'Anny's Winter Orange' A dwarf version of 'Midwinter Fire' the very colourful stems create a stunning winter display, particularly on sunny days. Rosa 'Noisette Carnee' A very well-behaved climbing rose that is perfect for training over an arch, pergola or gazebo. The small, 'noisette' flowers are blush-pink and produce the most amazing clove scent constantly from June to November. Sanguisorba hakusanensis 'Lilac Squirrel' I've never seen a squirrel with a drooping, shaggy lilac tail, but this variety will give your garden an unusual and different look throughout summer. It does need a moisture retentive soil but will grow in sun or semi-shade.
