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 7.30. 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 & Diseases and Vegetables. Bring your questions, thoughts and examples to discuss with other interested members.

Monday 5th saw over 80 members and friends enjoy a presentation by Peter Skeggs-Gooch. Peter spoke, with fine illustrations, on the clematis that provide colour and scent almost throughout the year.

Peter is the third generation to run Thonycroft Nurseries in Norfolk and is the father of the fourth (he hopes). Thornycroft have won nine gold medals at Chelsea Flower Show; they were on show!

Whilst most of the attendees would have thought they understood their clematis, there is no doubt that several were reminded that their practices were not necessarily ideal.

The year starts with Freckles and Winter Beauty providing scent and colour from October to February; Apple Blossom and Lemon Dream help continue through March into May. Early summer brings Montana and Sir Eric Saville, whilst Crystal Fountain (for patio containers), Marjury, Jackmanii Propurea and Alionushka keep scent and flower into October. Rehderiana provides scent and colour into November.

Plant at least 3 inches deeper than the compost level in the pot.

Pruning: “If it flowers after June, hard prune” is Peter’s motto. Tidy early season climbers such as Montana after flowering for shape and remove old growth. Light prune the early, large flowering types in early winter, then hard prune 6 inches or so in February and March.

It was interesting and informative; inspiring for many of us.

More inspiration is coming our way on Monday, October 3. Troy Scott-Smith is the speaker at our Percy Picton Memorial Lecture. Troy is Head Gardener at iconic Sissinghurst Castle. The Chase School is the venue; reception from 7pm; tickets £10. A few remain available from John Goodwins and Picton Nurseries both in Colwall or, please, call 01684 540416 for more information.

TIM BEAUMONT