There are many reasons as to why someone would need to move a plant from one place to another. Maybe you’re moving house and want your garden plants to relocate with you. Or maybe your plant just isn’t flourishing in a certain part of the garden and you want to give it a fighting chance. Moving a plant is an easy process so long as you take your time and treat your plants gently.
If this move isn’t hindered by a timeframe the best time to move plants would be during early spring when the soil is not that warm. Trees, shrubs and roses should be left until late autumn when the plants are not fully grown. Cooler conditions are best suited as they do not stress the plant as much as heat will.
Step 1: Identify the space
The best place to start is by identifying the space you want to locate the plant. The roots being out of soil for too long can be detrimental so make sure the move is done quickly and gently. When it comes to deciduous shrub or rose bushes, prune the top half back to make the move easier.
Step 2: How to move your plant
This part requires more patience and a light hand. Grab your spade and gently loosen the soil around the roots and plant. When inserting the spade make sure that it is done away from the base of the plant to avoid damage. If you find you’re not reaching the roots don’t be afraid to keep digging. It is inevitable that roots will be broken but just try to expose as much as you can before you start lifting.
Step 3: Removing your plant from soil
This part is a two handed job and if you need help then that is encouraged. Hold the top part of the plant with one hand and hold the roots with your other. Gently pull to see if the roots come away from the soil easily. If there is resistance, continue to remove soil until the plant can be lifted.
Step 4: Replant your plant
Take this time to prune away any dead or broken shoots. Carry the plant to its new planting hole – if you’re not immediately transporting the plant be sure the roots do not dry out and wrap them. It goes without saying but if you are moving from one place to another leave the garden for last. Lower the plant into its new home, check that there is enough room for the roots and avoid squashing them to make sure they fit.
Step 5: Watch your plant flourish
Not sure how to tell your plant is the same depth as before? Part of the stem should be lighter than the rest, indicating the soil level. Water well, repeating during dry spells and pay particular attention during spring and summer!
Daffodils are THE spring bloom. Their bright yellow trumpets are recognisable across the globe, and no spring display is complete without them.
As you can imagine, they have always been a staple seasonal flower. The rich daffodil’s history even precedes the Romans, dating back to 300 BC. These powerful perennials can withstand harsh winters, are pest resistant, and look fabulous in any arrangement. But where did their long reign begin?
We’ve delved into the humble daffodil’s history, opening the historical window to one of the most popular bulbous blooms in the UK.
Echo & Narcissus
Daffodils, or Narcissi, indeed have a rich history. What’s most known is the Greek mythological story of ‘Narcissus and Echo’.
(Left Image: Echo and Narcissus by John Waterhouse)
As the legend recalls, Echo was a mountain nymph and had been recognised by the Greek gods for her natural beauty. Zeus particularly found her useful in distracting his wife, Hera, when participating in other affairs. Echo would talk to Hera for hours, giving Zeus plenty of time to escape from her watchful eye.
Eventually, Hera caught on to the Nymphs role in her husband’s activities. Enraged, the goddess cursed Echo to never again have a voice of her own, only able to repeat the last words that were spoken to her.
Echo in the Grove of Narcissus & Echo. Labyrinth Park, Barcelona.
Distraught, Echo wandered into the outskirts of ancient Boeotia, where she set eyes on the handsome Narcissus. Narcissus was considered impossibly attractive and is believed to be one among the most beautiful mortals, with a face that rivalled the likes of Hyacinthus and Adonis.
Although Narcissus was blessed with otherworldly good looks, it came at a price. A blind seer prophesied that he could only remain attractive if he stayed humble. He was told to never look upon his reflection, lest he falls into despair.
As Echo observed Narcissus, she fell deeper and deeper in love. She longed to call to him but could only wait till Narcissus spoke. He cruelly rejected Echo when she eventually emerged and ran away from her into the depths of the forest.
“Good-bye, my love!”
Said Narcissus to his reflection, and in turn, Echo to Narcissus.
Eventually, Narcissus was overcome by thirst and stopped by a pond. He laid on his stomach and leaned over the edge of the water, only to be met with the eyes of the most beautiful man he had ever seen.
Overcome with emotion, Narcissus tried to kiss the reflection but was met with water. Eventually, he realised the reflection was his own and fell into a deep depression. As Echo watched over him, Narcissus began to waste away until he, eventually, felt himself fading to death. His last words were to his reflection; “Goodbye, my love!” he cried. “Goodbye, my love.” Echo whimpered in return.
Nymphs searched for his body, but in its place, they found a beautiful flower. Its head was white, its trumpet orange, and henceforth it was known as the Narcissus.
Echo, distraught over the loss of her love, retreated to her mountain cave until she wasted away. Eventually, all that remained was her voice, which was doomed to repeat only the last words of whoever entered.
A European Favourite Since 300BC
The name ‘Daffodil’ actually comes from the Dutch phrase ‘affo dyle’. Translated, this means ‘that which comes early’.
Daffodils were cultivated in gardens from as early as 300 BC. Historically, these blooms could be found in areas of Europe, North America and North Africa. This heritage makes them incredibly hardy, surviving harsh weather conditions that you’d find in the early spring months.
The first recorded mention of daffodils was written by a Greek botanist in his book famously titled ‘Enquiry into Plants’.
Daffodils Were Smuggled into Britain
Throughout the daffodil’s history, different cultures would share their knowledge of the seasonal bulb. In fact, Roman soldiers were the first to introduce Britain to daffodils.
They believed that the sap of the flower had healing powers. We now know that daffodil sap does the opposite of heal and can cause skin irritation.
Britain is home to just one native daffodil out of thousands of cultivars. Commonly known as the Lent Lily, this classic bloom produces thin yellow flowers that are centred around a large and in charge trumpet.
However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that we started to see gardeners take advantage of the humble daffodil. The movement started in Cornwall, but the conditions were slightly too warm for the daffodil bulbs. Farmers soon realised that they had better results when bulbs were grown up north. Subsequently, daffodil farmers started to buy lands between Lincolnshire and Scotland to take advantage of the colder climates.
According to Heritage Calling, over 90% of Daffodils are grown and sold in Britain to this day.
William Wordsworth – The Daffodil Love Letter
Inspired by carpets of daffodils when strolling by Ullswater in the Lake District, William Wordsworth penned these immortal words.
(Left Image: Dove Cottage, Grasmere. Wordsworth’s home in Cumbria.)
FOR oft, when on my couch I lie
In vacant or in pensive mood,
They flash upon that inward eye
Which is the bliss of solitude;
And then my heart with pleasure fills,
And dances with the DAFFODILS.I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud by William Wordsworth
The Lake District is home to carpets of native daffs. These blooms can be seen in woodlands and around lakes through the early spring months. In 2003, the Grasmere community built the St. Oswald Daffodil Garden to raise money for the church. This garden is inspired by Wordsworth’s poem, and excerpts can be seen around the grounds.
Sold on the Streets of London
Pictured: A young girl selling daffodils in London. Photo Credit: Coram in the care of the Foundling Museum
The early 19th century saw the start of the bloom boom. Extravagant flowers and plants were too expensive for the average person, and people profited off selling common crops that could be found in nearby parks and woodlands.
Children as young as ten years old could be found selling seasonal flowers on the streets of London to walkers-by. For many, selling flowers was their sole source of income and could only bring home around 1s 6d (one shilling and sixpence). In today’s money, this is worth around £5.86. However, this wasn’t enough to live on, and many went without food, water, or shelter.
Some of their favourite flowers to sell were the cheapest and most commonly found. This included daffodils, violets, pansies, and many more.
The Symbol of Spring
Even when you take the daffodil’s history out of the equation, these flowers are still considered a spring favourite across the globe.
They’re even described as the ‘herald of spring’, as they’re one of the first flowers to bloom after winter.
In fact, Daffodils aren’t just a spokesperson for spring. In many cultures, these seasonal blooms can represent a myriad of connotations. For example, in China, daffodils represent good fortune and positive events, which is why it’s used as a symbol for Chinese New Year.
Throughout Europe’s medieval period, daffodils had a more sinister interpretation. It was believed that if you gazed upon a drooping daffodil, it signified your impending death. Cheerful, right
Luckily this is no longer believed, and the humble daffodil remains a symbol of good health, fortune, and happiness.
Heads up – Christmas is just 76 sleeps away! Although it sounds like more than enough time to plan your pressies, its also only 11 Fridays till the big day. Seems a lot sooner now, right?
Thankfully that still gives us ample time to grow our indoor flowering bulbs. These beautiful blooms are often found in spring gardens, but with some persuading they can appear just in time for Secret Santa!
Amaryllis
Amaryllis are well-known for their indoor growing abilities. Very few indoor bulb species can grow to the height and volume of amaryllis, making them an impressive gift to any floral enthusiast.
Even if their blooms don’t appear in time for Christmas, the promise of a single bud will be more than enough to keep your garden-fiend friends entertained for months.
Shop our selection of indoor-flowering Amaryllis here.
Daffodils
The ever impressive indoor daffodil can be enjoyed even earlier than your average spring-flowering outdoor varieties!
From the most notable Narcissi Paperwhite to other classic blooms, your friends and family can now enjoy the cheerful colour of the reliable daffodil in the thick of winter.
Browse our range of indoor flowering daffodils here.
Hyacinths
Hyacinths are classic indoor flowering bulbs. These fragrant and showy blooms make for an impressive display, whether in the spring or forced in winter.
That being said, they’re not the plant to give those who have pets as they can cause some harm if ingested. However, they are still perfectly safe to grow inside, giving you months of enjoyment.
Shop our entire selection of indoor flowering Hyacinths here.
As the weather gets cooler, looking towards the freezer is no longer a desirable desert option! Now is the time for crumbles, puddings and warm custard on an autumn evening. The new star of your dinner time is our Sticky Toffee Pear Pudding, a deliciously sweet treat that you won’t want to share!
Poach pears – Peel and cut the bottom off each of your pears and discard the pips and scraps. In a pot boil 600ml of water and add the sugar, cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves and lemon zest. Add the pears once the mixture has reached boiling point. Simmer until the sugar has dissolved and cover for 15 minutes or until pears are soft. Save the liquid!
Make the sponge – Beat together the butter and sugar until they form a soft paste. First add the rest of your wet ingredients (milk, vanilla extract, golden syrup, eggs). Once incorporated add the dry ingredients (flour, cinnamon) and mix until smooth.
Add the pears – This part is up to you! You can either add your pears to the mixture and then pour into the pan. Or, pour your batter first and then add the pears if you want to make your pudding look fancy.
Bake the pudding – Bake for 35-40 mins at gas mark 4 until the cake is cooked through. Use a skewer to check if the centre is cooked, if it comes out wet then continue to bake for another 10 minutes.
Make your sauce – While your cake cools, bring the poaching liquid to a boil and then simmer until reduced to a glossy syrup.
Enjoy – You can either cover the sponge with your delicious sauce or save it for later for serving alongside custard for a warm, autumnal treat!
Spooky season has finally arrived! Before you break out the carols and Christmas lights, let’s enjoy October for what it is. A time for tricks, treats and a brand new competition! For this October we’re going all the way with the spooky vibes and want you to join us. In between planting the rest of your autumn bulbs and preparing the garden for a scare or two, get some newspaper, a sharp knife and your little orange friend. Pumpkin carving is an incredibly fun activity for everyone that encourages creativity, garners admiration from neighbours and even uses those baking skills!
How to enter
Submit photos of your perfectly carved pumpkin! Feel free to let your creativity flow and carve your pumpkin however you want (bonus points if you do carve our logo!). We’ll be joining in the fun as well so stay tuned to our TikTok page to see our very own creation!
FACEBOOK – Like our Facebook page and share your image to our page with the caption ‘Pumpkin Carving Competition entry’.
TWITTER – Follow us at @JParkersBulbs and tag us in your photos with the hashtag #parkerspumpkin
INSTAGRAM– Follow us at @jparkersbulbs and tag us in your photos with the hashtag #parkerspumpkin
EMAIL – Email us at [email protected] (Entries must be under 5mb – please include your name and postcode)
What you win
The winner of our Pumpkin Carving Competition will win a special Dark Flowering Bulbs collection that is not on our website! This prize will be a handpicked selection of dark flowering spring bulbs. It’ll be all of your spring favourites, Tulips, Iris and Hyacinth and more in beautifully deep colours, perfect to bring some dramatic flair to your spring and summer garden.
When does the pumpkin carving competition end?
The competition ends 24th October. The winner will be announced the following Monday with an accompanying blog post.
Terms and Conditions
All entries which meet the criteria outlined below will be considered for the prize of a Dark Flowering Bulbs collection.
All entries using photographs must be original images, taken/produced by the entrant.
Entrants agree that their names may or may not be published with their entry.
One winner will a Dark Flowering Bulbs collection sold by J Parker’s. There is no substitution for this prize and it cannot be exchanged for cash.
All varieties, colours and sizes of pumpkins will be considered.
Send your entries by email to [email protected] (email under 5mb) or you can share it with us on our social media pages.
All entries will be considered, and you can enter as many times as you wish. Competition closes 24th October 2021. Winner will be notified by email on 25th October 2021.
This pumpkin pie recipe will really knock the socks off of your dinnertime guests this autumn!
An american classic that fulfills our cinnamon dreams in one beautiful triangle slice… Make your very own today by following this easy recipe.
Servings: Feeds 8/16 (depending on how generously you slice it!)
Preparation time: 1 hour 30 minutes
You will need:
Large pan
Colander
22cm tart tin
Baking parchment
Baking beans
Sieve
Mixing bowl
Ingredients:
450g pumpkin, deseeded, peeled, and cut into chunks
350g sweet shortcrust pastry
140g caster sugar
2 eggs
25g butter
175ml milk
1 tbsp Icing sugar
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
Plain flour for dusting surfaces
Instructions:
Cook the pumpkin – In your large saucepan, add your pumpkin chunks and cover them with water. Cook on a low/medium heat until tender and drain.
Prep the base – Pre-heat your oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Roll out your pastry on a lightly flour-dusted surface and line your tin with the pastry. Pop it into the fridge for 15 minutes, then cover it with parchment and baking beans and pop it in the oven for 15 minutes. Take the parchment and beans off the pastry and then cook for a further 10 minutes, or until the pastry is a golden colour.
Make the Filling – As you wait for your pastry to cool down, now is the perfect time to prep your filling. Increase the ovens temp to 220C/200C fan/gas 7. In a bowl, combine your sugar, salt, nutmeg, and half your cinnamon. Puree the pumpkin in a food processor, and add it to the bowl once creamy. Then add your eggs, butter, and milk, and combine.
Bake the pie! – Pour your mix into the pastry shell and cook for 10 minutes in the oven. Take it out and reduce the temperature to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Put your pie back in the oven and let it cook for 30-40 minutes so the filling can set.
Enjoy – Remove your pie from its tin and set aside to cool. Mix your icing sugar with the rest of the cinnamon and sieve it over the pie. Enjoy cold with some whipped cream!
Tips:
How to take this recipe to the next level…
If you’re not a fan of whipped cream, vanilla ice cream is a perfect alternative when serving.
Liked this pumpkin pie recipe? Discover more tasty recipes on our blog!
What are hardy plants? There are so many different terminologies used in the word of gardening it can be hard to keep up. From learning the difference between perennial and biennial. Or deciduous and ericaceous, there is a lot to remember. So don’t worry we’ll make this as simple as possible…
What does ‘hardy’ mean?
In the world of gardening the word ‘hardy’ is used to describe a plant that can stand up to low temperatures and survive. According to the Hardy Plant Society, there are several levels of hardiness that depend on the temperature level: a hardy plant can survive a temperature of -15°C compared to a frost hardy plant that can survive a temperature of -5°C. On the other end of the spectrum we have half hardy plants that can only stand temperatures as low as 0°C and tender plants which will not survive temperatures below +5°C.
In the United Kingdom on average the winter temperature drops no lower than -11°C meaning that hardy plants do well here. However, there is no guarantee that your plants will survive. The changeability of the weather is something to make note of. One minute your plants will be covered in frost and then basking in sunlight.
What are some examples of hardy plants?
There isn’t just one particular type of hardy plant, they come in all sorts of varieties. Here are some of our hardy plants:
Chelsea Flower Show is finally here! Postponed to autumn for the very first time, this years Chelsea made the most of the time of year, using autumnal colours and tones that aren’t typically seen. But the main part of Chelsea, one of the biggest reasons people from all over the country flock towards the most celebrated flower show… The trends. Chelsea Flower Show is great for many reasons – the talks, the food, and of course the displays. Every year gardeners from all around present their gardens and therefor set the newest trends in the gardening industry. Let’s take a look at trends from the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2021.
Meadows
As we saw from RHS Tatton Park earlier this year, rewilding and sustainability has become an ongoing theme within the display gardens. The gold-winning ‘Yeo Valley Organic Garden’ embraced nature and the ‘imperfection’ that came along with it. Garden designer Tom Massey and supported by Sarah Mead, allowed plants to grow as they would naturally occur. The garden also promoted support for biodiversity, using plants that were organically grown and chemical-free. Sarah shared some great tips for those at home who wish to adapt their garden and become more environmentally conscious. By packing flowers tightly together it minimalises the amount of sunlight getting to weeds, eliminating the need for weed killer.
Ponds
You might not think that there is much in common between meadows and ponds, but they both share the same biological problem. Much like wildland, we have also lost almost 80% of wetlands. Water brings so much to a garden, but aside from purely aesthetic reasons it also brings in wildlife. It is a place for birds to bathe, insects to hover and creates to take a drink. There are aquatic plants that can add a whole new look to the garden. From waterlilies, water lettuce and blue iris, many of which can be used as natural water purifiers. Water is a vital part of not just human life, but nature and life itself.
Artisan features
Alan Williams highlighted the trend of art becoming a part of the garden. As the award-winning designer of ‘The Parsley Box Garden’ and Creative Director of Form Plants he used sculptures tucked amongst the planting. Artisan features were used amongst many gardens, and these pieces were not your traditional stone sculptures. They included metal formations, a water feature and extraordinary wooden structures. The best part of these art pieces was the emphasis on local craftsmanship and materials used. The award-winning M&G Garden features repurposed metal pipes, something easily accessible and readily available.
Creative containers
RHS Chelsea has had many firsts! From it being held in September for the first ever time, to being the first year to introduce a dedicated container gardening category. This year certainly made up for its absence last year. From this new category, people were able to show what can be done in a small garden space. Not everyone has vast amounts of land or allotments, so a focus on smaller gardening practises is a great start.
Indoor gardens
Following the theme of smaller gardens and dynamic spaces, this was the very first Chelsea Flower Show to highlight houseplants with the brand new indoor gardens category! After postponing the show last year due to world events which saw us all spending more time inside it only seemed necessary. Gardening has seen a massive boost in the last year alone with more and more people seeing the positive benefits it has on mental wellbeing. There were so many designs that were able to utilise the space given and the movability that houseplants have.
Whether you were able to go to the Chelsea Flower Show this year or catch it on television, it’s clear that the trends set this year are here to stay. With a more conscious effort from the RHS to ‘get political’ by focussing on environmental issues and adapt to the new types of gardens, it is proven that this can be done with style.
Growing your own crops can feel like a long, and sometimes fruitless, process. Finally, you can reap the rewards from your months of labour! October has arrived, and with it brings the appearance of many fruits and vegetables.
Here’s what to harvest in October, whether it be in the garden or allotment.
Carrots
If successful, you can harvest carrots from as early as May, carrying through to December.
Apples
October is the best time to harvest apples. This is when they’ll be at their juiciest! Eat them soon after picking, or use them in recipes for desserts!
Potatoes (Main crop)
Maincrop potatoes can be harvested from August through to October, so grab them out of the ground this month to use them in all your favourite dishes!
Pumpkins
And who can forget the quintessential crop of the autumn months? Pumpkins will be ready to harvest through October, leaving you to fulfil your carving and baking needs!
Creating an effortless woodland-inspired garden has never been easier. Anemones are perfect for any garden theme and design, adding a wholesome touch to your seasonal displays.
Not only are they a gorgeous bloom, but they’re also incredibly easy to plant. If you’re after something low-maintenance, then the humble anemone should be on your shopping list! With some varieties flowering in early spring and others in summer, there’s an anemone to suit everyone.
If you’re after some easy to digest tips on how to plant anemones, then you’re in the right place. Let’s get gardening!
When to Plant Anemones
The type of anemone will determine when you should be planting it. For spring-flowering varieties like anemone nemerosa and anemone blanda, you should try and get them in the ground around September and October.
Anemone japonica can be planted any time from May to September, flowering in the autumn months. Anemone coronaria, however, flowers in many months depending on when you plant it. To see it appear in summer, plant it in spring. For autumn, plant it in early summer, and for spring plant them in autumn.
How to Plant Anemones
You can get anemones in every which way you can imagine, from bulbs to loose roots. The way you prepare them and plant them will obviously differ depending on what you’ve bought.
For bulbs and corms, dig a hole that’s around 8cm deep and spaced 8cm apart. If planting in containers, leave around 10cm space from the edge of the pot.
Modules are the easiest way to plant anemones. Simply ease them from their container and plant them in the desired area!
For loose roots or rhizomes, soak them in water for about 2-3 hours before planting. This helps them to grow, flowering much quicker than if you planted them dry. Plant them flat about 2cm deep and 8cm apart.
If you’re looking to grow anemones for spring, add some mulch atop the soil to add some extra warmth through the cold winter months. However, anemone coronaria doesn’t do well in extremely cold weather and that may result in them struggling to bloom in the spring months, so this should be taken into account before planting.
Where to Plant Anemones
Wood type anemones can be planted anywhere in the garden, as long as they’re covered with leaf mould to emulate the conditions found in the woods. They can be planted in containers too. Anemone blanda especially likes good drainage, so a container is a good choice for their variety.
Anemone coronaria can be planted in light shade or full sun, as they prefer sunny conditions. Blanda and nemerosa don’t mind the shade as much, as that’s what they get in a woodland area. Plant your anemones in beds, containers, and borders, but just keep these points in mind when choosing your spot!
