VISITORS are always welcome on the first Monday of the month at Colwall Village Hall WR13 6EQ.

We arrive from 7pm and a talk is given by a person well versed in their speciality at about 7.30pm. Arrive early, meet the members and enjoy a free cup of tea or coffee. While sipping your drink of choice join the group at the Interest Points; Garden Visits, What is it (plants)? Pests and Diseases, and Vegetables. Bring your questions, thoughts and examples to discuss with other interested members.

This months meeting was addressed by the ever popular Bob Hares. Bob’s career has ever been gardening and horticulture; he describes himself as being “a specialist in general”.

His talk, My Garden in July, showed what a specialist in general he is. Pruning early flowering shrubs should be finished by now but better done now than left; remove flowered stems back to new growth (we all know this but enjoy being reminded) considering shape before the deed. Loosen tree ties on newly planted specimens because, up and into July trees are making good vertical growth; from now on the stems thicken. Everything cut, trimmed, pruned will benefit from a good dose of blood, fish and bone (bought and shared perhaps with a friend) in 10kg or 25kg bags making it far less expensive than buying a 1kg box two three times a year.

If we have plants to put in the ground, puddle them in. Make a hole, fill with water and leave to drain; repeat and then plant. Water the item thoroughly once more and, barring drastic weather, with sensible management all will be well.

50 plant and shrub cuttings taken from his garden, with support from Pershore College, enhanced the presentation; each with tips for good propagation. Strawberry runners are best planted end of July/August; Alstroemeria will replant if taken with plenty of soil; eryngium from root cuttings; foxgloves take cuttings in spring; hydrangeas prune hard for leaves but light for flowers; collect cowslip seeds.

That this was a most entertaining and informative talk was proved by the number of questions it provoked and the applause with which it was received.

Next month on August 3 we receive Martina Christopher with her topic The Plight of the Bee; Flowers to the Rescue.

Come early make/meet friends and discuss your gardening interests and challenges. There are many experienced and knowledgeable gardeners who are happy to answer questions. Subscriptions, payable in January, are £12, visitors are charged £4

On Saturday, August 8 is our 72nd Annual Summer Show. The show is for both members and non-members alike. Entry fee: 40p per class, excluding the Junior section which is free to enter. Free entry to the Show after 2pm for exhibitors with five or more entries. Entry forms must be received by 5pm Thursday, August 6. They may be left at John Goodwin’s (Colwall), Old Court Nurseries or with Helen Picton at Parkwood.

Details are obtainable from www.wychecolwallhorticulturalsoc.wordpress.com

TIM BEAUMONT