I am writing this blog whilst it is pouring down outside with very strong winds and it feels like summer has well and truly passed. It is all part of our seasonal weather pattern and as one season finishes another one begins. We are starting to change over the bedding plants and have begun to make up our winter/spring hanging baskets. The leaf clearing has started and our compost bays are starting to get filled again.
During the last week of September, we top-dressed the greens on the golf course and overseeded with grass seed. The golf course has been looking good and playing well all season and is a credit to the ground staff. Our next task is to carry out some repair work to the pond in the Secret Garden during the coming months and to fit a new pump, so the water fountain can be enjoyed again.
Wildlife in the Park
On a recent early morning walk, I spotted some young badgers playing next to the east golf course which was a joy to see, Jigsaw was too busy trying to play chase with some rabbits, who always get away! I have noticed a lot of different mushrooms and fungi appearing around the estates which looks promising for our mushroom forage event on the 20th October. Find out more here.
With the autumn upon it is a great time to visit us and walk the ground to admire the autumnal colours. One of my favourite views of the estate is from the top field overlooking the woodland towards the hotel; it reminds me of New England although on a much small scale.
Garden Tips
- Cut back perennials that have started to go over
- Remove and compost summer bedding plants and replace with spring flowering bedding plants
- Rake up fallen leaves and compost
- Start bringing in more tender plants
- Scarify, aerate and feed lawns
Happy Gardening,
Kevin Sweet