If the awful weather doesn’t tempt you out of doors, then now’s a good time to
give your indoor plants some TLC
. Remove dead leaves/flowers and use a damp cloth to clean down dusty leaves. If you spot signs of insect pest infestation, then treat with a homemade spray using a drop of washing-up liquid, a teaspoon of vegetable oil and four fluid ounces of warm water mixed together. If that doesn’t work, then spot-treat using a cotton bud dipped in surgical spirit
Order or download seed catalogues
and start making a note of which varieties you’d like to grow for 2016. As regards new/unusual varieties, stock can often be limited so it’s best to get orders in early. Pooling orders with friends is a great way to share seed and costs.
Check trees/shrubs for signs of storm damage
such as broken or damaged boughs that may pose a safety risk. With large specimens, it may be necessary to employ the services of a tree surgeon, but always make sure that they are properly qualified. If in doubt, contact the Irish branch of the Arboricultural Association (
[ Goodwin-arborist.comOpens in new window ]
) for advice.
DATE FOR YOUR DIARY
Wednesday January 13th, 8pm,
South County Dublin Horticultural Society: Carmel Duignan, gardening writer and former television producer, will talk on “The Making of a Plant Anorak”. Kill O’The Grange Parish Centre, Kill Lane. Admission €5.
