Gardening - what is this?

[Callum_62]

Hi,

We had a young hebe wiri planted in this exact spot last year

It browned off and seemed to die but there was some green growth underneath that noticed a few months ago which I presumed was life in it yet

Over the past 2 months whatever is growing has exploded in size and I'm now pretty certain this is no hebe after all!

Anyone identify this?

I certainly now looks weedy and the leaves don't share the kind of plastic look the hebe did

Hebe from last year first and then the beast that's now replaced it [emoji23]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210611/5f207f6fcb9c67e8653803e2351eb2e7.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210611/fccd699f60adef3ccc807ddab5f62446.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210611/f535b9ccf2de064142ae7bbd63685d76.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210611/c1a5eaf54c61ca86e2253502476a662e.jpg

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[Bangkok Hibby]

There are apps you can use to take a photo of a leaf and they'll identify for you. Also google lens can do it. 🙏🏻

[Moulin Yarns]

Any sign of flower buds?

First impressions are a species of Epolobium (willowherb, a weed)

[Callum_62]

Any sign of flower buds?

First impressions are a species of Epolobium (willowherb, a weed)No signs of buds and the stems are smooth

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[Moulin Yarns]

No signs of buds and the stems are smooth

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Looks like lots of stems from ground level, how easy is it to pull out? Are the stems fleshy, easy crushed?

[Callum_62]

Looks like lots of stems from ground level, how easy is it to pull out? Are the stems fleshy, easy crushed?First stem came out easy

Bigger one had these small markings on the stem

Some of the roots spread along way
Can't really crush them https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210611/e55c381d531c43ee416d218dc5f64564.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210611/9211a69c5d57c471d1f412a231205464.jpg

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https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210611/03dcc72a462e4ee0d592e9ba24d28836.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210611/0e1d1dd781060bb77f0a681b7fc16c36.jpg

[wookie70]

I'd say willowherb/fireweed too. We get lots in among our perennial bed.

[Moulin Yarns]

Yeah, think it's a willowherb. An annual weed. Called fireweed because of the speed of colonisation on bare soil. Pull it out before it flowers.

You will recognise it from road verges.

[wookie70]

I'd say willowherb/fireweed too. We get lots in among our perennial bed.

[He's here!]

As others have said it looks like the sort of weed I pull out the soil regularly. Very fast growing although I don't think I've seen it grow in such a concentrated clump in a garden. Not entirely unattractive and as I've heard it said 'a weed is just a plant out of place'.

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

Hi,

We had a young hebe wiri planted in this exact spot last year

It browned off and seemed to die but there was some green growth underneath that noticed a few months ago which I presumed was life in it yet

Over the past 2 months whatever is growing has exploded in size and I'm now pretty certain this is no hebe after all!

Anyone identify this?

I certainly now looks weedy and the leaves don't share the kind of plastic look the hebe did

Hebe from last year first and then the beast that's now replaced it [emoji23]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210611/5f207f6fcb9c67e8653803e2351eb2e7.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210611/fccd699f60adef3ccc807ddab5f62446.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210611/f535b9ccf2de064142ae7bbd63685d76.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210611/c1a5eaf54c61ca86e2253502476a662e.jpg

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As long as it's for personal use you'll probably be OK. 🚬

[Moulin Yarns]

As long as it's for personal use you'll probably be OK. 🚬

Wrong kind of weed :wink:

[overdrive]

Had this growing in a planter in the garden in my old house. I was sure it was a weed. My mum, who likes gardening, didn’t think it was. Glad I’ve been proved right :greengrin:

It’s the new owner’s problem now. I somehow don’t think he’ll be much into gardening as he’s a 20 something Yorkshireman and his questions about the garden at his viewing centred around the “best spots to drink beer”

[Bangkok Hibby]

As others have said it looks like the sort of weed I pull out the soil regularly. Very fast growing although I don't think I've seen it grow in such a concentrated clump in a garden. Not entirely unattractive and as I've heard it said 'a weed is just a plant out of place'.

Exactly, there's no such thing as a weed per se. Its just a plant where you don't want it. Take the dandelion for example. 99% of the population just mow them away but don't realise they are an important source of nectar for bees, hoverflies and beetles.

[hibsbollah]

It’s a willowherb. Probably the most common weed in Scottish gardens.

[Crunchie]

It’s a willowherb. Probably the most common weed in Scottish gardens.

:confused: not even close imo, buttercups, daisies and dandelions grow all over my 2 gardens and the neighbours for that matter, not a sign of willowherb.

[1875godsgift]

:confused: not even close imo, buttercups, daisies and dandelions grow all over my 2 gardens and the neighbours for that matter, not a sign of willowherb.

Buttercups and daisies are flowers and the dandelion is a herb :confused:

[Crunchie]

Buttercups and daisies are flowers and the dandelion is a herb :confused:
As far as I'm aware they're all classed as weeds, but technically they're wild flowers.

[1875godsgift]

As far as I'm aware they're all classed as weeds, but technically they're wild flowers.

So if they're all technically wild flowers, then is willowherb the most common weed in Scottish gardens?

[Crunchie]

So if they're all technically wild flowers, then is willowherb the most common weed in Scottish gardens?
whatever floats your boat.

[1875godsgift]

whatever floats your boat.

:wink:

[hibsbollah]

:confused: not even close imo, buttercups, daisies and dandelions grow all over my 2 gardens and the neighbours for that matter, not a sign of willowherb.

If you’re cultivating a soil regularly, digging it, planting stuff on it, the willow herb is the weed you’ll see most of. If it’s a lawn or a neglected area, yes dandelions and daisies will be the most numerous, that’s true. I always think willowherb looks like a small version of the basil plant you buy in the supermarket.

[Callum_62]

To be honest my wife didn't mind the way it looked - I removed it anyway [emoji23]

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[Moulin Yarns]

:confused: not even close imo, buttercups, daisies and dandelions grow all over my 2 gardens and the neighbours for that matter, not a sign of willowherb.

All of the above can be found in grass and contribute to the biodiversity in a garden, the only people who would want to treat them as weeds and get rid are sports groundsmen.

They are all native unlike willowherb which was introduced from the North West of America by plant explorer David Douglas from scone.

[Moulin Yarns]

To be honest my wife didn't mind the way it looked - I removed it anyway [emoji23]

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👍

[lapsedhibee]

plant explorer David Douglas from scone.

The utter ******* .

[Moulin Yarns]

The utter ******* .

One of his mistakes, but he did introduce lots of wonderful plants as well.



https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Douglas_(botanist)

[Colr]

Excellent to see a gardening thread on here. Its been a gap in the conversation for some time for us fogeys.

Personally, I’m having a bit of bother with my espeliered apple trees. The leaves are drooping on one (but not its neighbour) and some of the leaves have gone a bit yellow.

[G B Young]

Exactly, there's no such thing as a weed per se. Its just a plant where you don't want it. Take the dandelion for example. 99% of the population just mow them away but don't realise they are an important source of nectar for bees, hoverflies and beetles.

And the roots can apparently be used as a coffee substitute - or so I read on a nature trail board recently.

[Moulin Yarns]

And the roots can apparently be used as a coffee substitute - or so I read on a nature trail board recently.

Also a dye plant for wool and cotton. And has medical properties as a diuretic. There is a reason it is called pee the bed. 😁

[Callum_62]

Anyone used westkand John Innes number 2?

Got some today to fill up a medium Sized pot we took an acer out of to move to a bigger pot

The compost is weird - filled up pot chucked some water in and the water just sat on the surface. I literally had to move ut around it help to help disappate the water. I could've plastered the walls with it afterwards

Never used it but can't see how that can be good for the plants siting in water like that

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[Moulin Yarns]

Anyone used westkand John Innes number 2?

Got some today to fill up a medium Sized pit we took an acer out of to move to a bigger pot

The compost is weird - filled up pot chucked some water in and the water just sat on the surface. I literally had to move ut around it help. Disappate the water. I could've plastered the walls with it afterwards

Never used it but can't see how that can be good for the plants siting in water like that

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2 reasons I can think of.

JI2 has less peat and will not absorb water as well, which is what you described.

This dry weather, water is just sitting on the surface of the soil and not soaking in.

Best solution would be stab some holes in the bottom of the bag of compost then pour a full watering can into it the day before you want to use it.

[wookie70]

Anyone used westkand John Innes number 2?

Got some today to fill up a medium Sized pot we took an acer out of to move to a bigger pot

The compost is weird - filled up pot chucked some water in and the water just sat on the surface. I literally had to move ut around it help to help disappate the water. I could've plastered the walls with it afterwards

Never used it but can't see how that can be good for the plants siting in water like that

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I have had that quite a bit this year. Let the pot stand in water

[He's here!]

On the subject of compost is ericaceous compost recommended for raspberry canes? Planted some autumn fruiting ones a few months back which aren't showing much sign of life and wondering if they need a bit of a boost.

[hibsbollah]

On the subject of compost is ericaceous compost recommended for raspberry canes? Planted some autumn fruiting ones a few months back which aren't showing much sign of life and wondering if they need a bit of a boost.

No, ericaceous won’t do the raspberries any harm but won’t make any difference and better used for plants that need it (camellias azaleas heathers etc). Feed the plants with granular or liquid feed, and concentrate on keeping them well watered especially since it’s been dry lately. If they’re not growing much that’s the most likely reason. They also need the sunniest site you can give them. Otherwise They’re a hard plant to kill :greengrin I bet they’ll be fine

[Jones28]

Anyone obsessed with lawn care have a hand push rotary lawn mower? Quite fancy one for a) cutting conditions and b) closeness of cut.


Ideally 7 blades as I dont want to pulling/tufting effect the 5 bladed ones can give you.

[patch1875]

Anyone obsessed with lawn care have a hand push rotary lawn mower? Quite fancy one for a) cutting conditions and b) closeness of cut.


Ideally 7 blades as I dont want to pulling/tufting effect the 5 bladed ones can give you.

I’m in the lawn care business. Push mowers are great but you do have to cut a lot to get the best out of it a wettish Scottish summer would probably need 2 cuts a week.

[Jones28]

I’m in the lawn care business. Push mowers are great but you do have to cut a lot to get the best out of it a wettish Scottish summer would probably need 2 cuts a week.

Thats my plan :aok:

Grass cutting is how I decompress :greengrin

[Moulin Yarns]

My shed roof is flowering away with wildflowers including some northern Marsh orchids. 👍

[He's here!]

No, ericaceous won’t do the raspberries any harm but won’t make any difference and better used for plants that need it (camellias azaleas heathers etc). Feed the plants with granular or liquid feed, and concentrate on keeping them well watered especially since it’s been dry lately. If they’re not growing much that’s the most likely reason. They also need the sunniest site you can give them. Otherwise They’re a hard plant to kill :greengrin I bet they’ll be fine

Thanks. They're in a great sunny spot and getting well watered so I might give them some of the feed you suggest, but from what you say I suspect patience is probably what they most require.

[WeeRussell]

Anyone obsessed with lawn care have a hand push rotary lawn mower? Quite fancy one for a) cutting conditions and b) closeness of cut.


Ideally 7 blades as I dont want to pulling/tufting effect the 5 bladed ones can give you.

I used a hand-push mower and have done for years… but that’s only because the gear is knackered and never been fixed. It’s good exercise for me 😓

[Jones28]

I used a hand-push mower and have done for years… but that’s only because the gear is knackered and never been fixed. It’s good exercise for me 😓

Do you bag the clippings or let them lie?

I have 3 separate bits of lawn and would really want the hand push for the front which is going to be the pretty lawn. Going to re seed it in the autumn and there’s a fair bit of levelling to do.

[Moulin Yarns]

Do you bag the clippings or let them lie?

I have 3 separate bits of lawn and would really want the hand push for the front which is going to be the pretty lawn. Going to re seed it in the autumn and there’s a fair bit of levelling to do.

If you leave the clippings you are effectively fertilising the lawn so it will grow faster, I always remove grass cuttings to reduce fertility and encourage wildflowers.

[Moulin Yarns]

Excellent to see a gardening thread on here. Its been a gap in the conversation for some time for us fogeys.

Personally, I’m having a bit of bother with my espeliered apple trees. The leaves are drooping on one (but not its neighbour) and some of the leaves have gone a bit yellow.

Sorry for the late reply. I forgot I saw this late.


I'm in the same position, I have 4 apple trees and 2 pear trees in what I laughing call my orchard. Had them all a few years now and I've seen something similar happened with one of the pear trees. First time it's happened. I took my thumb nail to the bark and it's green underneath so it's still alive.

I can't think why one tree is affected and the others aren't. Sorry for not being a bit more useful.

[Colr]

Sorry for the late reply. I forgot I saw this late.


I'm in the same position, I have 4 apple trees and 2 pear trees in what I laughing call my orchard. Had them all a few years now and I've seen something similar happened with one of the pear trees. First time it's happened. I took my thumb nail to the bark and it's green underneath so it's still alive.

I can't think why one tree is affected and the others aren't. Sorry for not being a bit more useful.

Thanks. I’ve given them more water and some liquid seaweed fertiliser and they seem to have stabilised. Not sure what the current deluge will do.

I planter the early this year and am amazed that fruit seem to be coming through.

Not sure if I should thin them out to get a better crop.

Got cherries, blackcurrents, pears and blueberries coming as well.

[Moulin Yarns]

Thanks. I’ve given them more water and some liquid seaweed fertiliser and they seem to have stabilised. Not sure what the current deluge will do.

I planter the early this year and am amazed that fruit seem to be coming through.

Not sure if I should thin them out to get a better crop.

Got cherries, blackcurrents, pears and blueberries coming as well.

Thinning is a personal choice. Thin apples and get larger fruit but I leave mine and the poor fruit usually drop off early. I keep the best for eating, the rest go to jam and pies and I have made cider the last couple of years. Occasionally you will get a poor year but don't worry.

Blackcurrents are prolific!!! I have had so much that I used some for dyeing wool.

[Colr]

Thinning is a personal choice. Thin apples and get larger fruit but I leave mine and the poor fruit usually drop off early. I keep the best for eating, the rest go to jam and pies and I have made cider the last couple of years. Occasionally you will get a poor year but don't worry.

Blackcurrents are prolific!!! I have had so much that I used some for dyeing wool.

Look forward to that.

My dream would be to have a walled kitchen garden!!

Save that for when I build my house in East Lothian!

[WeeRussell]

Do you bag the clippings or let them lie?

I have 3 separate bits of lawn and would really want the hand push for the front which is going to be the pretty lawn. Going to re seed it in the autumn and there’s a fair bit of levelling to do.

I was jesting really mate as it's a standard lawnmower (collects the grass and you empty it) so probably not the rotary type you were referring to.. it's just that the gear is knackered so requires pushing and pulling everywhere.

Fortunately I live amongst a lot of farm land, so clippings get tossed over the fence/dyke into fields and woods... or to the chickens who I am reliably informed enjoy feeding on cut grass.

I actually find cutting the grass bordering on therapeutic rather than a chore during these times :agree:.... well, more so when it's bone dry and easy-cutting... rather than soaking wet, boggy and chewing up the lawn.

[I'm_cabbaged]

Do you bag the clippings or let them lie?

I have 3 separate bits of lawn and would really want the hand push for the front which is going to be the pretty lawn. Going to re seed it in the autumn and there’s a fair bit of levelling to do.

How do you plan to level the lawn? I’ve got a few bumps and hollows I’d like to get shot of. Is just a case of top dressing and seeding every autumn?

[Jones28]

How do you plan to level the lawn? I’ve got a few bumps and hollows I’d like to get shot of. Is just a case of top dressing and seeding every autumn?

I’m going to get hold of some top dressing soil - sieved down to 4mm so pretty fine and sterile too. I’ve got bumps to take out so I’ll take the turf out with a spade and dump it, fill those hole with sand then I’ll top dress the whole lot with top dressing soil and re-seed it all, use a pallet to level by dragging it behind me, roll in the new seed and give it a good sprinkling.

There’s loads of stuff on YouTube, premier lawns Belfast and Ryan Knorr lawn care are good channels to have a look at.

[I'm_cabbaged]

I’m going to get hold of some top dressing soil - sieved down to 4mm so pretty fine and sterile too. I’ve got bumps to take out so I’ll take the turf out with a spade and dump it, fill those hole with sand then I’ll top dress the whole lot with top dressing soil and re-seed it all, use a pallet to level by dragging it behind me, roll in the new seed and give it a good sprinkling.

There’s loads of stuff on YouTube, premier lawns Belfast and Ryan Knorr lawn care are good channels to have a look at.
👍

[overdrive]

Pulling this thread back up. Getting into gardening - installed a few raised beds in the garden and have got a hydroponics set up inside too.

Anybody got experience of growing onions? I bought some onion sets which I’ve planted out. The instructions on the packet said to plant 5cm deep and recover with soil which I did.

Subsequently, from doing some research online on feeding etc. I’ve noticed all the sources online say to plant just below the surface with the tip showing.

Are the instructions on the packet duff? Should I try dig them up and start again?

[danhibees1875]

Not sure if this is the right thread but anyone built their own fence? Is it easy enough?

I've a small hedge parametre around my front garden and the hedges aren't that great - to sparse and prone to weeds building up underneath them. I'd like a small wooden fence around it instead and I'll then dig out an area infront of that to plant flowers. Just looking for something c.3ft tall.

Is it just a case of popping some posts in (using concrete mix?), then nailing some cross-beams between them and then nailing some planks to those beams?

[Moulin Yarns]

Pulling this thread back up. Getting into gardening - installed a few raised beds in the garden and have got a hydroponics set up inside too.

Anybody got experience of growing onions? I bought some onion sets which I’ve planted out. The instructions on the packet said to plant 5cm deep and recover with soil which I did.

Subsequently, from doing some research online on feeding etc. I’ve noticed all the sources online say to plant just below the surface with the tip showing.

Are the instructions on the packet duff? Should I try dig them up and start again?

I always plant with the tip showing, I put a cloche over them until they are at least 5cm. Reason for doing it is birds will often pull them up when just planted, my way allows them to establish roots.

[overdrive]

I always plant with the tip showing, I put a cloche over them until they are at least 5cm. Reason for doing it is birds will often pull them up when just planted, my way allows them to establish roots.

I've put a net over them. Think I'll pull them up and re-plant.

[Bridge hibs]

Not sure if this is the right thread but anyone built their own fence? Is it easy enough?

I've a small hedge parametre around my front garden and the hedges aren't that great - to sparse and prone to weeds building up underneath them. I'd like a small wooden fence around it instead and I'll then dig out an area infront of that to plant flowers. Just looking for something c.3ft tall.

Is it just a case of popping some posts in (using concrete mix?), then nailing some cross-beams between them and then nailing some planks to those beams?Straight forward mate, measure well, sink some posts and use post crete, mind its rapid set and 1 bag per post. Have a spirit level, string line, a good cordless drill and plenty screws, a nail gun on hire could be quicker but if you are just taking your time then drill and screws (or if your old school a hammer and nails) you can get plenty lumber for panelling at B&Q or a builders merchant. Oh and a cross cut saw or bench saw 👍

[Andy Bee]

A good thread on gardening from here a while ago. http://https://www.hibs.net/showthread.php?346545-Gardening-and-the-art-of-patience (https://www.hibs.net/showthread.php?346545-Gardening-and-the-art-of-patience) with some really good tips. It'd be interesting to see how the gardens in that post progressed over the last couple of years.

266942669526696


I'm going to build one of those pondless waterfalls in the summer. 26697

[greenlex]

Re doing the back lawn. Trying to get to putting green standard. Originally had some drainage work (perforated pipe etc ) in but still drained terribly. Original soil is dreadful and basically clay. Did some of my own to compliment it and also built a large soak away in the very worst part tied into that drainage system. I killed the existing lawn off and spread 4 x builders bags of concrete sand and 3 x70/30 sand/compost mix spread on top. Rotovated it all in and that’s where I currently am at.
Rake it level and put another 3 x 70/30 sand/compost mix with a finer grade as rootzone. Sow the seeds. Continually water and wait.

[Just Alf]

Re doing the back lawn. Trying to get to putting green standard. Originally had some drainage work (perforated pipe etc ) in but still drained terribly. Original soil is dreadful and basically clay. Did some of my own to compliment it and also built a large soak away in the very worst part tied into that drainage system. I killed the existing lawn off and spread 4 x builders bags of concrete sand and 3 x70/30 sand/compost mix spread on top. Rotovated it all in and that’s where I currently am at.
Rake it level and put another 3 x 70/30 sand/compost mix with a finer grade as rootzone. Sow the seeds. Continually water and wait.Hope that's no weeds around the edges waiting for some new grass to invade!

:greengrin


Sounds, and looks, like hard work.. Good luck.

[overdrive]

I've put a net over them. Think I'll pull them up and re-plant.

OK, will need do something other than a net. Something has ripped it overnight. Not managed to get out to actually assess the damage.

[bod]

Any tips on stopping a squirrel digging up the grass ? .
found peanut shells next to holes but never saw it digging up

[greenlex]

Any tips on stopping a squirrel digging up the grass ? .
found peanut shells next to holes but never saw it digging up :gun:

[Moulin Yarns]

Any tips on stopping a squirrel digging up the grass ? .
found peanut shells next to holes but never saw it digging up

Grey or red? Where abouts are you?

[bod]

Gray,
Edinburgh

[Moulin Yarns]

Gray,
Edinburgh

Shoot it. I don't think there's any control of greys in Edinburgh yet, up here we have landowners who trap and despatch.

[Jones28]

Gray,
Edinburgh

Slingshot. Or pee? Don’t know if that works the same way as it would for cats.

[speedy_gonzales]

Any tips on stopping a squirrel digging up the grass ? .
found peanut shells next to holes but never saw it digging up

Did you definitely see a squirrel commit the act?
I only ask as a couple of summers ago I woke to find holes all over my lawn with tufts of grass/thatch lying about. Checked my security camera and it turned out to be Magpies.
Magpies, like squirrels, will busy/store food for the future but they forget where so will peck away at familiar areas until it's found.

[speedy_gonzales]

Shoot it. I don't think there's any control of greys in Edinburgh yet, up here we have landowners who trap and despatch.

Might be urban myth, but I was always told that if you capture a grey squirrel, it's illegal to release it, it has to be despatched.

[Jones28]

Might be urban myth, but I was always told that if you capture a grey squirrel, it's illegal to release it, it has to be despatched.

You’re not a vegetarian are you?

Have a wee squirrel bbq, warn all the other squirrels off.

[Moulin Yarns]

Might be urban myth, but I was always told that if you capture a grey squirrel, it's illegal to release it, it has to be despatched.

You're right, it's illegal to release a grey squirrel, once trapped it has to be dispatched with a shot to the head. Estates use their gamekeepers to control them.

[speedy_gonzales]

You’re not a vegetarian are you?

Have a wee squirrel bbq, warn all the other squirrels off.

Veggie, how very dare you 😀
I'd definitely be up for scranning a squirrel, but like chicken wings, I think I'd need about 20 for just one sitting 😬

[Jack]

Elvis apparently ate squirrels as a boy.











Are you sure?

Uh huh! 😆

[greenlex]

Eventually got the seed down on Friday. Now it’s up to my hosepipe and Mother Nature.

[overdrive]

We've been digging borders in our garden and it has been quite tough with the quality of "soil". Our house is a new build although we aren't the first owners of it (it is about 6 years old I think). We've dug up slabs, bricks, massive planks of wood, assorted bits of metal, other bits of rubble and lots of rocks. In fact, there are more rocks than soil. No wonder we were having issues with drainage on the grass that was there before. I've been trying to dig in some manure and compost along with putting down some bought top soil to try to improve things, but there is so much crap in there I don't think it is worth it now. There was a bit we were hoping to plant an apple tree but I think its roots will have nowhere to go. We might need to admit defeat, lay down some gravel and just put some pots there.

We were also planning on laying a patio ourselves but given how long it has taken for us to dig two borders and the rubbish we've found under there, we are dreading the ground prep part of the job. I think we will just have to bite the bullet and get someone in to do it for us despite the astronomical prices we were quoted for it before.

[greenlex]

We've been digging borders in our garden and it has been quite tough with the quality of "soil". Our house is a new build although we aren't the first owners of it (it is about 6 years old I think). We've dug up slabs, bricks, massive planks of wood, assorted bits of metal, other bits of rubble and lots of rocks. In fact, there are more rocks than soil. No wonder we were having issues with drainage on the grass that was there before. I've been trying to dig in some manure and compost along with putting down some bought top soil to try to improve things, but there is so much crap in there I don't think it is worth it now. There was a bit we were hoping to plant an apple tree but I think its roots will have nowhere to go. We might need to admit defeat, lay down some gravel and just put some pots there.

We were also planning on laying a patio ourselves but given how long it has taken for us to dig two borders and the rubbish we've found under there, we are dreading the ground prep part of the job. I think we will just have to bite the bullet and get someone in to do it for us despite the astronomical prices we were quoted for it before.
I’m new build too. It’s so much hard graft. Clay soil riddled with lumps of concrete, boulders and bricks. Drainage was my problem so bit the bullet and started over. Never again.

[danhibees1875]

How deep were you both digging? I dug out a flower bed area, lifting the existing turf and all I found were a handful of rocks and a 5p coin! To be honest, I actually thought they would help drainage - but I maybe didn't think that through...

Could a raised flower bed be your answer? Build it and fill it with compost/soil (don't really know the difference :greengrin ) which will give you a good head start for roots?

[overdrive]

How deep were you both digging? I dug out a flower bed area, lifting the existing turf and all I found were a handful of rocks and a 5p coin! To be honest, I actually thought they would help drainage - but I maybe didn't think that through...

Could a raised flower bed be your answer? Build it and fill it with compost/soil (don't really know the difference :greengrin ) which will give you a good head start for roots?

It’s right beneath the surface in some cases, a couple of cm. You could tell as when I’ve tried to fork the grass before, only the tip of the fork would go in in certain places.

I think I’m going to have to go with raised beds (already got some in another part of the garden for veg.)

[Jones28]

This is probably a cross thread issue here, but it seems to be such a new build problem that the gardens are full of crap, with compacted soils and all the issues that this brings up.

[Moulin Yarns]

This is probably a cross thread issue here, but it seems to be such a new build problem that the gardens are full of crap, with compacted soils and all the issues that this brings up.

There are 2 new builds near me and that wasn't a problem with them, they were built on an old bowling green. 😁

My house is over 200 years old and I'm still finding big stones in the garden.

[overdrive]

There are 2 new builds near me and that wasn't a problem with them, they were built on an old bowling green. 😁

My house is over 200 years old and I'm still finding big stones in the garden.

But is it the majority of your garden? Stones will push up over time but it is the level of debris from the build that is the issue with lots of new builds. The new builds near you might be lucky but even houses built on fields aren't exempt. They just bury any old rubbish from the build under a very thin layer of top soil. I was reading up and under NHBC guarantee they should be putting a minimum of 100mmm of top soil down. That's nowhere near the case with my garden. I'm up for getting the builder back in to sort it but my wife isn't keen on the hassle. I also don't know given the house is 6 years old now if they would say "prove the previous owners didn't put all that rubbish down there".

[Jack]

When my parents bought a new house, over 60 years ago, they discovered a cement mixer buried in the back garden! My dad and the neighbour dug it up. He was a mechanic and they cleaned it up, used it to build their garages then sold it!

Builders dumping stuff isn't a new thing.

[Jones28]

There are 2 new builds near me and that wasn't a problem with them, they were built on an old bowling green. 😁

My house is over 200 years old and I'm still finding big stones in the garden.

Stones are a bit different to detritus left over from building works though.

[Keith_M]

Has anybody any experience of using non-toxic weedkillers?

I'm struggling with the amount of weeds in our new garden and could do with using some weedkillers, but don't want to use toxic chemicals... or anything harmful to the wee fox that wanders through our garden in the morning.

[Moulin Yarns]

Has anybody any experience of using non-toxic weedkillers?

I'm struggling with the amount of weeds in our new garden and could do with using some weedkillers, but don't want to use toxic chemicals... or anything harmful to the wee fox that wanders through our garden in the morning.

Groundup is neutralised on contact with the soil. It translocates to the roots and kills only the plants applied to. It still toxic chemicals though. You could try salt solution.

[Jack]

Has anybody any experience of using non-toxic weedkillers?

I'm struggling with the amount of weeds in our new garden and could do with using some weedkillers, but don't want to use toxic chemicals... or anything harmful to the wee fox that wanders through our garden in the morning.

You could try the vinegar, salt, soap option.

[Keith_M]

Groundup is neutralised on contact with the soil. It translocates to the roots and kills only the plants applied to. It still toxic chemicals though. You could try salt solution.


You could try the vinegar, salt, soap option.



Thanks for the suggestions, guys.


:aok:

[greenlex]

Eventually got the seed down on Friday. Now it’s up to my hosepipe and Mother Nature.

Unbelievably a week later and we have a good bit of germination and green shoots.

[Andy Bee]

Unbelievably a week later and we have a good bit of germination and green shoots.

You sound all excited about that grass mate, if it's anything like mine you'll be cursing it come the end of the summer :greengrin I'm seriously considering Astro turf for what's left of the lawn in my back garden and I'm going to attempt this resin and chips type surface to increase parking in the front.

[Jones28]

You sound all excited about that grass mate, if it's anything like mine you'll be cursing it come the end of the summer :greengrin I'm seriously considering Astro turf for what's left of the lawn in my back garden and I'm going to attempt this resin and chips type surface to increase parking in the front.

Please don’t do AstroTurf. It’s horrendous stuff. Dreadful for the environment.

[Jones28]

Unbelievably a week later and we have a good bit of germination and green shoots.

Looks good - what seed did you go for in the end?

I’m a grass nerd so my interest is genuine.

[Andy Bee]

Please don’t do AstroTurf. It’s horrendous stuff. Dreadful for the environment.


I know, I know but the nature of my work means it can go long spells without me having the time to cut real grass. I love it when it's all nicely edged and cut but unfortunately time doesn't allow me to keep it like that.

[Jack]

You sound all excited about that grass mate, if it's anything like mine you'll be cursing it come the end of the summer :greengrin I'm seriously considering Astro turf for what's left of the lawn in my back garden and I'm going to attempt this resin and chips type surface to increase parking in the front.

We moved into a house 18 months ago which has artificial grass. I'm not going to change it, much, but it's not great. It gets dirty and the dirty doesn't disappear as it would getting ground into the dirt.

By the way. Has anyone got a vax wet and dry carpet washer (or similar) they want rid of?
I want to experiment using it to wash my artificial grass 😆
It might work ... or it might explode so I'm not wanting to spend much/anything finding out!
Cheers 🍻

[Andy Bee]

We moved into a house 18 months ago which has artificial grass. I'm not going to change it, much, but it's not great. It gets dirty and the dirty doesn't disappear as it would getting ground into the dirt.

By the way. Has anyone got a vax wet and dry carpet washer (or similar) they want rid of?
I want to experiment using it to wash my artificial grass 😆
It might work ... or it might explode so I'm not wanting to spend much/anything finding out!
Cheers 🍻


You may be joking Jack but my mate actually hoovers his. It's pretty impressive and if you didn't know you wouldn't notice it was artificial although he used to work for Field and Lawn and gets the best of gear.

[greenlex]

Looks good - what seed did you go for in the end?

I’m a grass nerd so my interest is genuine.
Got a ryegrass mix from RigbyTaylor. It’s an ultra fine dwarf mix called R9. Used for bowling greens and golf greens.
A mixture of straight 25% mix of each of Clementine, Alathea, Angelina and Cameron. Be interesting how short I can get it once it’s established. I’ve plenty left for overseeing it has to be said. Inadvertent I bought enough to redo my home golf course. 😂😂😂😂

[greenlex]

You sound all excited about that grass mate, if it's anything like mine you'll be cursing it come the end of the summer :greengrin I'm seriously considering Astro turf for what's left of the lawn in my back garden and I'm going to attempt this resin and chips type surface to increase parking in the front.
No not me Andy son. Can’t wait to get the cylinder mower over it. :greengrin:greengrin

[Moulin Yarns]

I know, I know but the nature of my work means it can go long spells without me having the time to cut real grass. I love it when it's all nicely edged and cut but unfortunately time doesn't allow me to keep it like that.

Wildflower meadow instead, cut it in August and lift the cuttings. Think of the benefit to Pollinators.

[Mibbes Aye]

Wildflower meadow instead, cut it in August and lift the cuttings. Think of the benefit to Pollinators.

I'm looking to make a hibernaculum, maybe two, once we get into autumn, with wildflowers on top. We get a few frogs and the like so it should hopefully be well used. It was the name that prompted me :greengrin

[Andy Bee]

Wildflower meadow instead, cut it in August and lift the cuttings. Think of the benefit to Pollinators.

I've actually looked into that MY and I love it. I'm going to get some pre grown turf for some of the back garden but I need an area for sitting/play area. I'm basically trying to make it more wildlife friendly but also useable with next to no maintenance if that's even possible.

[overdrive]

We've been digging borders in our garden and it has been quite tough with the quality of "soil". Our house is a new build although we aren't the first owners of it (it is about 6 years old I think). We've dug up slabs, bricks, massive planks of wood, assorted bits of metal, other bits of rubble and lots of rocks. In fact, there are more rocks than soil. No wonder we were having issues with drainage on the grass that was there before. I've been trying to dig in some manure and compost along with putting down some bought top soil to try to improve things, but there is so much crap in there I don't think it is worth it now. There was a bit we were hoping to plant an apple tree but I think its roots will have nowhere to go. We might need to admit defeat, lay down some gravel and just put some pots there.

We were also planning on laying a patio ourselves but given how long it has taken for us to dig two borders and the rubbish we've found under there, we are dreading the ground prep part of the job. I think we will just have to bite the bullet and get someone in to do it for us despite the astronomical prices we were quoted for it before.

I gave up today on the border at the back of the garden in terms of trying to dig in compost and manure. Just so much crap (and large crap at that). Managed to get it relatively flat with patching bits with top soil and took advantage of an offer on blue slate chippings in Morrisons to cover it and we’ll get some raised beds. Done one side border ok but it was also tough but relatively small. Might try the other side border but if I encounter the same issue as at the back I’ll be doing the same though without the raised planters as they’d block light to some raised beds I’ve got for veg.

[Jack]

You may be joking Jack but my mate actually hoovers his. It's pretty impressive and if you didn't know you wouldn't notice it was artificial although he used to work for Field and Lawn and gets the best of gear.

No, I'm not joking and I've already hoovered mine. Mrs Jackie went mental 😆 that's why I'm looking for a freebie vax type thing.

If I get one and it works I'll report back. It could be a wee business opportunity for someone lol. I'm so happily retired I doubt anything would tempt me to commit to anything other than a holiday!

[RyeSloan]

No, I'm not joking and I've already hoovered mine. Mrs Jackie went mental [emoji38] that's why I'm looking for a freebie vax type thing.

If I get one and it works I'll report back. It could be a wee business opportunity for someone lol. I'm so happily retired I doubt anything would tempt me to commit to anything other than a holiday!

I have a small bit of Astro leading up to my garage door…I simply run the electric lawnmower over it at a high setting.

It doesn’t cut the Astro obvs but the suction that normally puts the grass cuttings into the grass box cleans it up lovely.

Basically what I’m saying is a cheap electric mower might do the trick.

Barring that you could get some free exercise and sweep the thing with a stiff broom! That said I’m normally puggled just sweeping the drive so if it’s a sizeable ‘lawn’ it might be best to do so over a couple of sessions [emoji1787]

[Moulin Yarns]

I've actually looked into that MY and I love it. I'm going to get some pre grown turf for some of the back garden but I need an area for sitting/play area. I'm basically trying to make it more wildlife friendly but also useable with next to no maintenance if that's even possible.

In my opinion, shrubs underplanted with herbaceous plants is as low maintenance as you can get. Most weeds will blend in with planting and any difficult weeds like nettle can be dug out or weedkilled. I have a lot of ground elder, pull the leaves at this time of year and you don't notice it for the rest of the year.

[Jones28]

Got a ryegrass mix from RigbyTaylor. It’s an ultra fine dwarf mix called R9. Used for bowling greens and golf greens.
A mixture of straight 25% mix of each of Clementine, Alathea, Angelina and Cameron. Be interesting how short I can get it once it’s established. I’ve plenty left for overseeing it has to be said. Inadvertent I bought enough to redo my home golf course. 😂😂😂😂

I know the mixture well, I hope your mower goes low enough!

[greenlex]

I know the mixture well, I hope your mower goes low enough!

Allett Liberty 43. Should go down to 6mm. Fingers crossed.

[Jones28]

Allett Liberty 43. Should go down to 6mm. Fingers crossed.

Oh you luck bar-steward. Yes I should imagine you'll be fine at that!

[greenlex]

Oh you luck bar-steward. Yes I should imagine you'll be fine at that!
I’ve only got one arm and one leg left to be fair. :greengrin

[Andy Bee]

Allett Liberty 43. Should go down to 6mm. Fingers crossed.

I'm now down the Allett rabbit hole, I've bought cheaper cars BTW. I can't believe I'm now reading about the benefits of Verticut, gawd I hate grass. :greengrin

[Jones28]

I’ve only got one arm and one leg left to be fair. :greengrin

Have you got the cassettes for it as well?

[greenlex]

Have you got the cassettes for it as well?

They are on the list for when needed. Verticut first as I’ve got an old scarifier that still does a job.

[greenlex]

I'm now down the Allett rabbit hole, I've bought cheaper cars BTW. I can't believe I'm now reading about the benefits of Verticut, gawd I hate grass. :greengrin

😂😂😂. Once you start on the lawn porn it’s a hard habit to kick.

[Jones28]

They are on the list for when needed. Verticut first as I’ve got an old scarifier that still does a job.

Aw man, major lawn mower envy.

Is it the cordless or the petrol?

[greenlex]

Aw man, major lawn mower envy.

Is it the cordless or the petrol?
Cordless electric. Very quiet. It’s very very good at keeping short grass short. Not so if it gets that wee bit longer. If that happens it’s best to remove the front roller and replace with two side wheels that come supplied. More an annoyance than anything else. This won’t be happening with the new lawn.

[Jones28]

Cordless electric. Very quiet. It’s very very good at keeping short grass short. Not so if it gets that wee bit longer. If that happens it’s best to remove the front roller and replace with two side wheels that come supplied. More an annoyance than anything else. This won’t be happening with the new lawn.

Thats the dream.

One of these days.

My off-brand mower with Honda engine starts first time though.

I'd still keep it though, in case the grass got away from me.

[Jones28]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R8StYZQi_8

This is a decent channel for you lawn nerds out there, but also for those of you struggling in new build gardens.

[greenlex]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5R8StYZQi_8

This is a decent channel for you lawn nerds out there, but also for those of you struggling in new build gardens.
I do like a bit of Daniel Hibbert. He’s passionate and likes to chunter on a bit but I quite like that. It’s almost like he’s bumbling along but knows his stuff. :greengrin

Another guy I like on youtube is a big Ulster man on Premier Lawns I think it is.

[Jones28]

I do like a bit of Daniel Hibbert. He’s passionate and likes to chunter on a bit but I quite like that. It’s almost like he’s bumbling along but knows his stuff. :greengrin

Another guy I like on youtube is a big Ulster man on Premier Lawns I think it is.

Big Robbie! Yeah they’re both pretty good. There’s another guy Ryan Knorr who’s based in the US but his lawns are phenomenal.

[greenlex]

26863It’s coming on. Sown on the 12th May. Less than 4 weeks ago. Another 4-5 weeks to thicken out a bit and the jobs a goon un I think. Really pleased with it so far.

[overdrive]

26863It’s coming on. Sown on the 12th May. Less than 4 weeks ago. Another 4-5 weeks to thicken out a bit and the jobs a goon un I think. Really pleased with it so far.

Looks great. Our grass probably needs some TLC. We gave up any hope of being able to lay a patio ourselves (well the ground prep not the laying of the patio itself) after our experience of digging our borders and have someone coming in to do it. We are hesitant to do anything with the grass until then as no doubt they will wreck it a bit doing the work for the patio. That'll probably be the final bit of our garden project. Think we will just put some top soil over the dead patches rather than start from scratch.

[Jones28]

26863It’s coming on. Sown on the 12th May. Less than 4 weeks ago. Another 4-5 weeks to thicken out a bit and the jobs a goon un I think. Really pleased with it so far.

Looking good :aok:

I'm going on holiday in early July and want to top-dress before I go to give the stuff a chance to bed in without being trampled and chucked around by the kids.

Anyone used Caledonian Horticulture?

[greenlex]

Looking good :aok:

I'm going on holiday in early July and want to top-dress before I go to give the stuff a chance to bed in without being trampled and chucked around by the kids.

Anyone used Caledonian Horticulture?
I used Caledonian Horticulture for my 70/30 sand soil mix. Goods were decent but delivery schedule for bulk bags was a bit sketchy. It did come within advertised time but don’t be in a hurry for it. Order now if you need bulk bags delivered and want to get it done in your timescale. Screened to 6mm but I did uncover a golf ball (titliest 3) in one bag. :greengrin There were occasionally a big lump in it bigger than the screen size but it seemed to be all compost stuck together and not particularly well mixed that was easily broken down. Assumed it’s stuck together after screening or during transport. I’d use them again. I’ll be getting small bags for top dressing for sure.

[Wembley67]

Looking good :aok:

I'm going on holiday in early July and want to top-dress before I go to give the stuff a chance to bed in without being trampled and chucked around by the kids.

Anyone used Caledonian Horticulture?

Yup....I buy tons and tons off them every season for my business.

Top soil is a bit touch and go but the Top Dressing, Green Goodness and Bark are all top notch at a fraction of the cost of say B and Q.

As mentioned, delivery is a bit of a mare (2-3 weeks) just now as they have expanded to the West of Scotland and don't have the infrastructure to cope. If you have space it's worthwhile ordering bags and keeping them around the side of the house, minimum of 40 bags for free delivery. Or if you are near a depot you can pick them up, I assume you can at them all although I'm only familiar with the site at Turnhouse.

I don't think it's advertised on the site but generally there are deals on like 5 bags for the price of 4.

[Jones28]

Yup....I buy tons and tons off them every season for my business.

Top soil is a bit touch and go but the Top Dressing, Green Goodness and Bark are all top notch at a fraction of the cost of say B and Q.

As mentioned, delivery is a bit of a mare (2-3 weeks) just now as they have expanded to the West of Scotland and don't have the infrastructure to cope. If you have space it's worthwhile ordering bags and keeping them around the side of the house, minimum of 40 bags for free delivery. Or if you are near a depot you can pick them up, I assume you can at them all although I'm only familiar with the site at Turnhouse.

I don't think it's advertised on the site but generally there are deals on like 5 bags for the price of 4.

Thanks Wembley, is it a lawn business you run?

I'm quite near their Turnhouse depot but I need a fair bit. I think I'll get a couple of dumpy bags delivered.

[Jones28]

I used Caledonian Horticulture for my 70/30 sand soil mix. Goods were decent but delivery schedule for bulk bags was a bit sketchy. It did come within advertised time but don’t be in a hurry for it. Order now if you need bulk bags delivered and want to get it done in your timescale. Screened to 6mm but I did uncover a golf ball (titliest 3) in one bag. :greengrin There were occasionally a big lump in it bigger than the screen size but it seemed to be all compost stuck together and not particularly well mixed that was easily broken down. Assumed it’s stuck together after screening or during transport. I’d use them again. I’ll be getting small bags for top dressing for sure.

Cheers :aok:

[Wembley67]

Thanks Wembley, is it a lawn business you run?

I'm quite near their Turnhouse depot but I need a fair bit. I think I'll get a couple of dumpy bags delivered.

I do yes. It's just a small local business, it's only about 7 years old and how I wish I started this 20 odd years ago. Great working away from offices!

[Jones28]

I do yes. It's just a small local business, it's only about 7 years old and how I wish I started this 20 odd years ago. Great working away from offices!

I don’t suppose you have a hollow core aerator do you?

[Wembley67]

I don’t suppose you have a hollow core aerator do you?

I don't I'm afraid, I usually go and hire them when required. It's not something that gets requested often so it's not really cost effective to buy one.

[speedy_gonzales]

I don’t suppose you have a hollow core aerator do you?

Manual or machine? I tried to hire one from HSS, Speedy, Brandon etc but it was difficult to get them to tie down a date. Ended up buying a two tine hollow aerator from Amazon that came with spare tines. Worked a treat, managed to do my lawn (maybe 8M by 25M) in just over an hour. The plugs popped out the aerator with ease and it handled the buried stones without problem (I found the 4 tine models kept hitting stone and didn't get to the required depth).

Jardineer Lawn Core Aerator, Hollow Tine Aerator with Spare Tines, Grass Aerator Garden with Non-Clog Slot, Manual Lawn Aerator for Compact Lawn Soil https://amzn.eu/d/h3DyrJO

[Jones28]

I don't I'm afraid, I usually go and hire them when required. It's not something that gets requested often so it's not really cost effective to buy one.

No I don't suppose it would be, I was staggered at the cost of the things.

[greenlex]

I don’t suppose you have a hollow core aerator do you?
I use the swardman professional. It’s excellent. I will admit the handle is not the greatest but the business end is first class. I’m sure there’s more comfortable suitable alternatives at better value out there. My grassed area isn’t huge so happy enough with it for now.

https://www.gardenimports.co.uk/product/swardman-hollow-tine-aerator/?v=79cba1185463

[Jones28]

Manual or machine? I tried to hire one from HSS, Speedy, Brandon etc but it was difficult to get them to tie down a date. Ended up buying a two tine hollow aerator from Amazon that came with spare tines. Worked a treat, managed to do my lawn (maybe 8M by 25M) in just over an hour. The plugs popped out the aerator with ease and it handled the buried stones without problem (I found the 4 tine models kept hitting stone and didn't get to the required depth).

Jardineer Lawn Core Aerator, Hollow Tine Aerator with Spare Tines, Grass Aerator Garden with Non-Clog Slot, Manual Lawn Aerator for Compact Lawn Soil https://amzn.eu/d/h3DyrJO

Thats looks great speedy, thanks :aok:

[Jones28]

Bit the bullet and gone for one of those aerators, should be arriving today.

It’s quite sad how excited I get with this kind of thing.

[Jones28]

Compost making: any good tips? We’ve gone for the “throw it all in method”, 2 bins on the go so planning to turn it in to the currently empty bin late summer and start 2025’s bin at the end of this year, does that make sense?

[overdrive]

Compost making: any good tips? We’ve gone for the “throw it all in method”, 2 bins on the go so planning to turn it in to the currently empty bin late summer and start 2025’s bin at the end of this year, does that make sense?

Nettles. Despite doing the suggested brown to green mix, it just wasn’t cooking. Cut some nettles from the walkway opposite our house and chucked it in. They are really high in nitrogen so acts like a natural accelerator. Wish I’d done it sooner.

[Jones28]

Nettles. Despite doing the suggested brown to green mix, it just wasn’t cooking. Cut some nettles from the walkway opposite our house and chucked it in. They are really high in nitrogen so acts like a natural accelerator. Wish I’d done it sooner.

Excellent shout, thanks overdrive

[Jones28]

I love this time of year when things in the garden are coming to life.

Anyone got any big plans for this year?

I planted some asparagus in 2023 and this is the first year we can actually start to take spears from them. Planted 22 crowns so come may and June it will be asparagus central.

We have old railway sleepers that will need replacing this year, not sure if I want to replace like for like or do something different. A company called Solway recycle farm products and make them in to things like boards for cattle sheds. I was considering using these and covering them with thinner wood panels to finish them which will hopefully last longer than sleepers. Price wise it would be a bit more expensive but they will last longer than we will!

[greenlex]

Aerator coming next Friday from HSS. I’m a wee bit excited. First hollow coring getting done since I laid the new lawn round the back. Hollow core, scarify, overseed and top dress. Hoping for big results as it’s looking a bit sorry for itself.

[Jones28]

Aerator coming next Friday from HSS. I’m a wee bit excited. First hollow coring getting done since I laid the new lawn round the back. Hollow core, scarify, overseed and top dress. Hoping for big results as it’s looking a bit sorry for itself.

Fantastic stuff, I scarified my back lawn on Saturday and the difference already in the just getting rid of loads of thatch is tremendous.

Managed to give the front a first cut yesterday, took it as low as I can without totally scalping some of the mounds and chucked a load of 4-in-1 down, can already see the lines where the fertiliser has gone down.

Once the moss is killed off on the front that will get a really hard scarify.

Glad we’re getting a real drenching tonight, everything around me looks like it could do with some. Forecast from Sunday onwards looks good for sunshine as well.

[greenlex]

Fantastic stuff, I scarified my back lawn on Saturday and the difference already in the just getting rid of loads of thatch is tremendous.

Managed to give the front a first cut yesterday, took it as low as I can without totally scalping some of the mounds and chucked a load of 4-in-1 down, can already see the lines where the fertiliser has gone down.

Once the moss is killed off on the front that will get a really hard scarify.

Glad we’re getting a real drenching tonight, everything around me looks like it could do with some. Forecast from Sunday onwards looks good for sunshine as well.
I scarified in October and it’s helped it to be less full of moss now. Front doesn’t get much sun in the winter and it’s a riot. It’s the original turf the builder put down thus the aerator coming into play. Ive actual cut twice already in the last couple of weeks without taking too much off. Just the tips really. It’s been fed and moss killer been on since last cut and turning nice n black.

[tamig]

I scarified in October and it’s helped it to be less full of moss now. Front doesn’t get much sun in the winter and it’s a riot. It’s the original turf the builder put down thus the aerator coming into play. Ive actual cut twice already in the last couple of weeks without taking too much off. Just the tips really. It’s been fed and moss killer been on since last cut and turning nice n black.

Have you ever tried Mo Bacter? Breaks the moss down into feed for the grass roots. The new growth is excellent. No blackening of the moss and no raking out needed. My front garden is north facing and doesn’t get any sun reaching the grass in winter. Gave it a cut on a good day in early December and its looking good with much less moss. The Mo Bacter will go on next week.

[greenlex]

Have you ever tried Mo Bacter? Breaks the moss down into feed for the grass roots. The new growth is excellent. No blackening of the moss and no raking out needed. My front garden is north facing and doesn’t get any sun reaching the grass in winter. Gave it a cut on a good day in early December and its looking good with much less moss. The Mo Bacter will go on next week.
I haven’t but funnily enough the other day I saw a video of someone using it but I had already applied my usual a couple of weeks ago. I will give it a try next time.

[tamig]

I haven’t but funnily enough the other day I saw a video of someone using it but I had already applied my usual a couple of weeks ago. I will give it a try next time.

Good stuff. They recommend a spring and autumn application so doing towards late Sept should set you up for the winter. 👍

[Scouse Hibee]

The best thing I ever done with my gardens was employ a gardener 😀. I like the benefits of having gardens but hate gardening and don’t really have the time to keep them both up to scratch so the gardener is ideal.

[Stairway 2 7]

Have you ever tried Mo Bacter? Breaks the moss down into feed for the grass roots. The new growth is excellent. No blackening of the moss and no raking out needed. My front garden is north facing and doesn’t get any sun reaching the grass in winter. Gave it a cut on a good day in early December and its looking good with much less moss. The Mo Bacter will go on next week.

Ahhh just spents a day raking today and very nervous how bare it is. Wish I saw this yesterday ha