Anna Pavord: Weekend Work
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.What to do
Terracotta pots that have been standing in saucers of water through autumn should definitely now be liberated from them. Plants are less likely to die and pots less likely to crack open in icy weather if the compost is well drained. Less water means less expansion if it freezes.
Now is the time to plant roses, fruit trees and new hedges.
In the bloated interval that stretches between Christmas and the New Year, order seeds. Include at least three things you have never grown before. I recommend Antirrhinum 'Black Prince' (Thompson & Morgan 1.99) and Antirrhinum 'Chartreuse' (Unwins 2.49) which is the most beautiful snapdragon I have ever grown. Aquilegia caerulea (T&M 2.29) is also lovely as is Viola 'Shy Pixie' (Dobies 2.05).
Prune vines when the leaves have all dropped. Cut back all side growths to within one or two dormant buds from the main stem. Peel loose shreds of bark from vines growing under cover. Pruning must be completed before the New Year, when the sap will start to rise again. Vines cut then will bleed copiously, which is not good for them.
What to see
There's a Winter Garden Fair tomorrow (11am-4pm) at the Chelsea Physic Garden, 66 Royal Hospital Road, London SW3 (below). Although it's open now more than it used to be, there's still a wonderfully secretive feeling in letting yourself in through the small door that opens on to this surprising place. Wonderful trees. And wonderful food now in the new caf. At the fair there'll be plants stalls, craft stalls and other sources of potential Christmas presents. Admission 7. Call 020-7352 5646.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments