Hardy Plants for Scottish Clime
I'm in Scotland, live high on moorland, we get a lot of wind and long winters down to -17C. Frost free growing season is 3 months from 1st june. I can't seem to keep things more than 2 years, think the soil is really poor. Can't grow pansies, can't grow roses, can't even grow MINT lol. Any advice on really tough flowers & shrubs ? This year I have planted a lilac, hydrangea, a buddleia, some hollyhocks, and flax. They wont survive I know it, but I tried anyway...I would love a cottage garden.Mary
Hi Mary, welcome to the forum.
Scotland is one of those places I have to visit one day Then I'd know your conditions a little bit better!
My first advice is to get your soil tested and see what it is lacking/has too much of. I'd also start a good compost heap of leaves, grass clippings, and kitchen waste started so you have good soil in the works to add to your own.
I can't believe you can't even grow mint! I've seen that growing in lakewater, in sand in Florida... it's like the almighty plant that just won't die.
I can't suggest good plants for you as I'm only really familiar with zones 7-11, but there are other folks here who can help you there
Scotland is one of those places I have to visit one day Then I'd know your conditions a little bit better!
My first advice is to get your soil tested and see what it is lacking/has too much of. I'd also start a good compost heap of leaves, grass clippings, and kitchen waste started so you have good soil in the works to add to your own.
I can't believe you can't even grow mint! I've seen that growing in lakewater, in sand in Florida... it's like the almighty plant that just won't die.
I can't suggest good plants for you as I'm only really familiar with zones 7-11, but there are other folks here who can help you there
We have some brilliant gardens yes, --but not in this village lol... It's on a hillside, and the neighbours say all the goodness is washed downhill. They don't have nice gardens either, most just have grass and a wee tiny border....But I want some mint and some rosemary very much, even if I have to grow in pots plonked in the garden ! lol. Mary. In a bad mood.. !
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- Super Green Thumb
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- Super Green Thumb
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Wow, I'm glad that you had a look. Sounds like a plan. I would dig a trench and put them in the trench and then cover that over with soil as you go.
Remember that leaves, grass clippings and manure (and if you live near a coast seaweed) are all your friends when it comes to building soil.
Rock phosphate is something that you can buy that will help to make great soil by building soil aggregates.
Remember that leaves, grass clippings and manure (and if you live near a coast seaweed) are all your friends when it comes to building soil.
Rock phosphate is something that you can buy that will help to make great soil by building soil aggregates.
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Raised beds - not really, but I have a few corners and sheltered flat bits I can concentrate on. Does bone meal go on in winter or can I do it now ?
Also I did try the compost bit, but I don't keep well and it was hot so I've never got round to it, a lot of the time I just havent got the energy or strength to dig holes.
Also I did try the compost bit, but I don't keep well and it was hot so I've never got round to it, a lot of the time I just havent got the energy or strength to dig holes.
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