Tips for spring & early summer from Gary Long, Head Gardener at Trewithen

Head gardener at Trewithen Gardens, Gary Long, provides you with his top tips for trees and shrubs in spring and early summer:

  1. Mulch using organic matter to help prevent weeds and retain moisture.
  2. Feed trees, shrubs and roses with a balanced fertilizer such as Growmore or blood fish and bone. With Rhododendron pay attention NOT to mulch right up the stem/trunk. This could kill the plant, leave at least a 10 cm (4") gap.
  3. Check tree ties regularly to make sure they are not too tight and digging in or worked loose over the winter.
  4. Keep weeds under control, little and often is the key.
  5. Tie in climbing and rambling roses, making sure the stem is bent around the support to increase the chance of new shoots producing flowers lower down the stem.

Lawn care:

  1. Mow regularly lowering the height of cut gradually to the summer height.
  2. If composting clippings, spread in thin layers to speed up the composting process.
  3. Use "feed and weed" products to eliminate weeds and encourage lush new green growth.
  4. Edge lawns with either shears or a "Half moon".

Members' Gardens

Our members have some truly beautiful and interesting gardens. Take a look to see some of the wonderful things growing.

Become a Member

You can take out CGS membership as an individual or as a family and there are lots of benefits.

Upcoming Events

  • September
    07

    Day Trip by Coach to Kia-Ora Farm and Gardens, Cullompton and National Trust Killerton, Broadclyst

    Kia-Ora Farm’s peaceful ten-acre garden encompasses lawns, lakes and ponds, which, together with extensively-planted borders, a bog garden and mature trees, provide an environment in which nature thrives.

    Famous for its rare trees and shrubs, the garden at National Trust Killerton provides year-round interest. Beside the house, The Admiral’s Lawn is bordered by tender perennials whilst the Terrace Garden includes herbaceous flowering beds and obelisks for annual climbers. In the formal garden, a memorial to Sir Thomas Acland marks his favourite spot overlooking the Devonshire countryside.

    The booking form is available to download here or in hard copy, upon request, from the organiser.

  • September
    21

    Self-drive Visit to Trebartha, near Launceston

    We last enjoyed a visit to Trebartha in 2015 when many changes had taken place, such as the installation of a new hydro-electric plant and the large-scale removal of Rhododendron ponticum. Several years later and the area is gloriously settled. 

    Trebartha is located on the eastern side of Bodmin Moor and its gardens offer both natural and man-made features together with many fine views. Spanning 18 hectares, there is plenty to explore. This will be a full day visit so do bring a picnic lunch!

    Our group will divide into two for different guided walks in the morning and afternoon to view the ponds, cascades and terraces, and we shall stop to admire the beautifully-designed garden at Lemarne that is situated within the estate, en route. 

    The booking form is available to download here or in hard copy, upon request, from the organiser.