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GARDEN 13 |
A New Rose Bed.
Following the disastrous flooding of 2000, the existing shrub border never really looked as though it would recover. It was decided to start again from scratch. Consistently, the only shrubs that have survived persistent flooding have been the roses and it seemed an obvious choice to continue this theme into the border. During the Winter and Spring of 2001/2002 the entire border was completely ripped out, double dug and manured, and the worn out or dead shrubs replaced with an assortment of roses dating from the 19th century or earlier. The roses were obtained either from David Austin, or Peter Beales. The quality of the roses in both cases was excellent but a special mention must go to David Austin as the roses arrived almost by return of post. Well Done.
All that is left of the shrub border (L) A third- rate philadelphus, a viburnum, and a few annuals, hastily thrown in to fill in the gaps. (C) Clearance work begins. (R) After a few hours hard slog, the border is cleared.
(L) It is difficult to see clearly from these photographs because of the strong sunlight, but the first stages of double digging the border can be seen. (C) Extra work was created as the only place to put the soil was back into the border which meant moving the same soil several times. (R) Halfway through the digging and yet another barrow load of compost has gone into the top spit.
(L) Nearly finished. A final dressing of mushroom compost is laid on the top ready to be dug in (C). Using boards was crucial to prevent soil compaction on this loamy, clay, soil. In total, this bed took three metres of mushroom compost. (R) Following delays due to bad weather, the roses were finally planted in February 2002.
This particular bed is riddled with ground elder so double digging provided a wonderful opportunity to get out as much of the roots as possible. I am quite sure, however, that there will be every chance for someone to crow, "you missed a bit" as the season continues.
(L) Geraniums, Sweet Williams and assorted annuals have filled up any bare spaces. (C) Opium Poppies fill a border very quickly. (R) Blue chives work well with the dianthus "Mrs. Simkins" and a pink Lychnis.
In its first year, the new roses didn't put on much of a display and so it was important to add a dash of colour with annuals and perennials. Now in its third year, (2004), most of the roses are performing well despite blackspot and the border is filling up nicely.