For the border
The Clematis Regal range includes six varieties of hybrid clematis with unusual shapes and forms. They’re compact-growing, disease-resistant and covered in flower from spring all the way through to autumn. Two new ground-cover plants are Viola ‘Heartthrob’ and Heuchera ‘Citronelle’.
Both are perfect for brightening up woodland gardens or edging a semishaded pathway and would make an interesting colour combination when planted together. Elegant calla lilies have always been a favourite for sunny spots. New varieties released this spring include ‘Persia’ (far right), ‘King Salmon’ and ‘Hope Cross’. They’re sold in flower and can be planted in the garden or in containers or else used indoorsas a flowering pot-plant.
For oums
The latest Rose Flower Carpet ‘Amber’ has turned me green with envy, wishing I had space to plant more roses. ‘Amber’ is apparently tougher and more disease resistant than it’s predecessors and will perform in both cold or hot and humid climates, smothering itself in gorgeous blooms from spring until late autumn.
To help plant your roses, look no further than the new Venus range from Atlas Tools. They’re lighter than standard tools and have soft, ergonomic hand grips, with double hand grips on the spade and fork for added strength when wrenching or pulling. Plus, the electric-pink panels ensure you won’t lose these tools in the garden! If inspiration is what you’re after, check out Dennis Greville’s new book Colourful Gardens. Dennis’ stunning photography and wealth of knowledge and experience in both gardening and the fine arts will be sure to motivate you into a spot of serious gardening!
For the vege patch
Peppers and eggplants need a long growing season and should ideally be in the ground by now. But if you’re a bit late sowing your seed, check out Gellert’s range of established (45cm high) vege plants, including tomatoes, eggplant, capsicum and chilli. It’s not too late to sow tomato and squash seed, though. I like the look of Yates Tomato ‘Heirloom Favourites’ and Squash ‘Yellow Button’. I’m also going to try out Yates Tomato Dust. It’s a low-toxic formulation with sulphur and copper for fungicide protection and Spinosad, an insecticide derived from natural soil bacteria, to take care of pests.
For the kids
Peanut Kits from Niche Seeds will fascinate kids no end when they find out peanuts grow underground. Tomato ‘oiniBelle’ is another goodie. These dwarf, quick-to-fruit, mini tomatoes are perfect for growing in small pots on the deck and will provide endless fruit for lunchboxes. Yates Give it a Grow Starter Pack includes all you need to grow your own fresh tomatoes and mesclun for a yummy summer salad – just the thing for all those budding gardeners and young chefs out there.
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