Episode: #5 30/09/2006
Presenter: Melissa King

Box, both English and Dutch, make classic hedges and with regularly clipping create a lovely formal look but there are some other great options too.

Camellias and smaller leaved, more compact growing varieties like Paradise Petite, create fabulous hedges that can be kept around a metre tall. Grow it as a loose hedge so you get the benefit of pretty flowers in autumn and winter.

Escallonia ?Pink Pixie? is another great alternative to more traditional choices. It is a dwarf escallonia, with deep green glossy foliage and a neat compact habit, plus the bonus of vibrant pink flowers from late spring to late summer.

Another frequently asked question is how to get quick colour into the garden. One of the best ways is with flowering annuals and in spring it is petunias, impatiens, snapdragons, marigolds and loads more.

Most annualsprefer a sunny spot in the garden although some will grow in small amounts of shade. There are plenty of planting options, from seeds to advanced seedlings. Seeds take longer to grow and need more initial care, but are cheaper and great fun. For more impatient gardeners, turn to instant colour pots.

While you are out there doing your spring planting, don?t forget to give plants a boost with a complete flower and fruit plant food like Thrive. It is a water soluble fertiliser so it is fast acting. It is a complete food that is particularly rich in phosphorus and potassium encourage prolific flowering and fruiting so it is perfect for hungry citrus trees.

This week?s water saving tip:

Before you get out the watering can, check the four day forecast and if there is rain ahead let nature do your watering for you.

If there is anything you would like advice on then now is your chance to join our online Garden Club.

The Club offers all sorts of help including local advice, fact sheets, monthly newsletters, discounts and special offers, plus subscription to the garden gurus newspaper.

Log on to The Garden Gurus website and check it out.

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