< Previous20 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY Ed Fuller from Fullers Landscaping explains how you can revitalise your roses. healthy plant will heal itself from its wounds but, if you can’t stand the sight of them, organic bug sprays will quickly resolve the problem. However, this is not a long-term solution, it will need to be reapplied. While aphids are unsightly, if you can learn to love them, they actually play a vital role in the ecosystem. The honeydew provides food for critters like ants, and the aphids themselves are a tasty snack for much loved ladybirds who are our natural pest control. In the long term, ’toughen’ plants up by only feeding them if they’re obviously struggling, not adding too much compost, over- watering, or protecting from winds. In this way, they will grow resilient and more likely to recover from pests on their own. roses R oses are simply stunning. There’s something about their unmistakable musk and nostalgic flower that is quintessentially English. But their beautiful blooms are often tarnished by aphids during the summer. Small green, white, and/or pink insects cluster on the foliage and around the flower buds and shoot tips which suck sap from the stems and leaves, leaving the plant sticky from the honeydew they excrete. Further down the line, fungal molds can grow on the honeydew causing extra problems. Of course, stealing ‘juice’ from a plant will surely leave it weak, but although an infestation may look catastrophic, caught early enough the damage will be limited. A Revitalised Revitalised1. Prune Wisteria 2. Deadhead flowering plants regularly 3. Keep watering containers and new plants 4. Feed containers, and even tired border perennials, with a liquid tomato food each week to encourage them to bloom into the early autumn 5. Collect seeds from favourite plants 6. Inspect chrysanthemums for the first signs of white rust and take immediate action 7. Harvest sweetcorn and other vegetables as they become ready 8. Continue cutting old fruited canes on raspberries 9. Lift and pot up rooted strawberry runners 10. Most perennial weeds are best dealt with when in active growth. Apply a weed killer containing glyphosate 11. Keep ponds and water features topped up 12. Feed your soil with green manures LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 21 FULLERS Call 01522 868717 or 07867 510544 landscapinglincolnshire@gmail.com www.landscapinglincolnshire.com GARDEN ADVICE Specialised Service in Garden Design and Landscaping Backed by a highly-skilled and experienced team, we’ve built our reputation on an ability to provide our clients with professional, tailored garden design and construction services. Around the garden Plants, and in particular roses, are tougher than they look. The other thing to remember is that roses are deep- rooted plants. In their first few years after planting, new roses should be watered regularly, especially in summer, until their roots are well established. Once they have settled in, they can usually survive on the moisture naturally present in the soil. However, in hot, dry spells or in dry, sandy soils they may need additional water. Finally, roses are hungry plants, and will flower and grow better if given additional feed and mulched with well-rotten manure. To encourage abundant blooms in your borders feed them twice a year. Feed them in midsummer after the first flush of flowers, especially for repeat-flowering types, and then again in March/April before they flower. Roses can be a great addition to any garden, and if you haven’t got flower beds then you can grow them in pots. © stock.adobe.com/ Anna © stock.adobe.com/Patrik Stedrak © stock.adobe.com/Lana22 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY about their environmental footprints, incorporating more sustainable practices into their lives, greener methods of gardening are following suit. S ustainability is a topic making its way into all aspects of our lives, whether it’s using more eco-friendly transport options or reducing the waste we produce. This also extends into our gardens. While people may consider using more environmentally friendly gardening practices out of an honourable desire to help save the planet, new research has revealed wider benefits. Scientists at the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) found that when we take a greener approach to managing gardens, this not only has a positive impact on the environment but makes us feel greater health and wellbeing benefits from gardening. Sustainable gardening, the research suggests, is thought to benefit people in six ways: improving environments for supporting human health, enhancing opportunities for psychological restoration, higher engagement in physical activity, wider or stronger social network bonds incorporating nature connectedness, providing a higher degree of continuous learning, and a sense of extended care-giving to the wider environment. The RHS gives the example that hand weeding expends more energy than applying weedkiller, as does using a watering can over a hose, or making, turning, and mulching compost over buying an equivalent. Meanwhile, green gardening further offers more opportunity for reflection and restoration through a greater connectedness with the natural world. Lead report author and RHS Sustainability Fellow Chloe gardening Greener LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 23 GARDENS KEVIN JOHNSON “For those times when you need a helping hand on farm or on land” 4 Church Road | Wittering | Peterborough | PE8 6AG Tel: 01780 782924 | Mobile: 07860 608825 enquiries@kevinjohnsoncontracting.co.uk www.kevinjohnsoncontracting.co.uk •Fertiliser Spreading 12m to 36m •Lime Spreading •Maize Drilling •Grass Mowing with Triple Mowers Sutcliffe said: “Identifying a link between sustainable practices and perceived wellbeing in garden contexts was a welcome surprise for the research team. It makes sense that making more sustainable choices is likely to benefit our wellbeing in the longer term, but it seems that doing so can directly benefit our wellbeing in the here and now too, something that policy makers and health professionals might tap into in order to deliver improved climate, biodiversity and human health outcomes.” With this under consideration, how can we garden more sustainably? Wise water use In a time of water shortages and hosepipe bans, one step to take is swapping mains water for rainwater where possible, which plants are said to prefer. To do this one could turn away from the tap with the use of a water butt storing rainwater collected from roofs. Grey water (domestic wastewater) can additionally be employed in the garden as it is created, such as from the kitchen and baths, with soaps and detergents harmless to plants (though it is advised to avoid this on produce to be eaten raw). Water containing bleaches, disinfectants, and stronger cleaning products should not be used, however, as they can damage plants and soil. Adding mulch around new plants to let rain through and hold onto it better, meaning less watering is required as roots establish, is also recommended, as is avoiding watering lawns. Lawns are hardier than one might think, but to help lawns become more drought resilient let grass grow longer. Trading hoses for watering cans is another tip, allowing for thoughtful watering, slowing the flow when watering to ensure more water stays in the pot rather than running out the bottom, alongside watering in the morning instead of early evening when water use peaks, to reduce demand and give plants water to drink throughout the day so it doesn’t simply drain away overnight. Using drought resistant plants in your garden is wise too, enabling them to thrive without intensive watering. Say goodbye to peat When we use peat in our gardens for soil improvement and mulching, we are taking away from the peatlands that provide significant carbon storage - over twice as much as the world’s forests. When peat is extracted, habitats are harmed, stored carbon is released, and flood risks increase. Fortunately, there are a variety of peat-free composts available as well as peat- free plants. Alternatively make your own compost from kitchen and garden waste (diverting it from landfill) or leaf mould as soil improvers and potting mixes. Plus, a compost heap allows you to get rid of garden waste in an eco-friendly manner. Picking the right plants Making more conscious plant choices is a great way to help support the environment, as well as wildlife. Consider bringing trees into your garden, to absorb carbon from the atmosphere, 24 Á © stock.adobe.com/ronstik24 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY GARDENS and think about replacing fences with hedges to trap pollution and clean air while providing nests, shelter, and food sources for wildlife. Focusing on long-lived plants, meanwhile, allows less replanting and less soil cultivation, avoiding the disturbance of ecosystems and the release of stored carbon. When choosing said plants it is also sensible to work with, rather than against, your garden’s conditions. For example, do you have a garden with dry or damp conditions, or does it get minimal sun? By evaluating this, you can pick plants that will thrive in your garden and need fewer carbon-heavy inputs like fertiliser. Plants that help pollinators, like bees and butterflies, which are losing their habitats, are also vital, just as pollinators are to the production of our food. Aim to grow a wide variety of plants that are pollen and nectar-rich and have a long flowering season, including a mixture of native and exotic plants to enhance pollinator diversity. There are a multitude of lists online which specify the best plants for this. Other ways to promote trees, berries, and perennial vegetables, intermixed with annuals, use mulches, make paths from woodchip instead of concrete or grass, and grow organically. Put chemicals in the past Finally, to prevent pollution in your garden, go chemical free to avoid damage to soil health, pollution of water sources, and harm to wildlife. This can be done by turning to alternative and natural methods to control garden problems and pests. Adopting good cultivation methods, paying closer attention to plant selection (e.g. those that are resistant to pests), frequently cleaning/tidying, and encouraging natural enemies of pests are all key starting points. In many cases it is best to think of prevention instead of cure. However, if, for instance, a pest infestation does occur, consider natural solutions like soapy water, garlic spray, and beer traps. These are just a few of the multitude of methods to increase the sustainability of your gardening. © stock.adobe.com/alexkich © stock.adobe.com/Mary Struck wildlife in the garden include providing food and water or letting your lawn and its weeds, such as dandelions (a key food source for pollinators), grow longer. Moreover, choosing local or UK-grown plants reduces a garden’s carbon footprint, by minimising the miles they travel, fuel used, and the pollution associated with this. Similar benefits can be felt by growing your own fruit and vegetables rather than purchasing them from supermarkets. To achieve the maximum carbon benefit, plant up vegetable gardens with fruit ORDER FORM Yes, I would like to subscribe to Lincolnshire Today magazine for the next 12 months, with the first 3 issues only being £1. Personal Details: First name: Last Name: Address: Town: County: Post Code: Tel: Mobile: Email: Payment by DEBIT/CREDIT card Name as it appears on card: Type of card: Mastercard / Visa / Visa Debit / Other Card Number: Card Verification number (3 digits on signature strip) : Expiry Date: Amount Authorised: Cheque enclosed YES / NO Please post this form back to: Subscriptions, Lincolnshire Today Magazine, Armstrong House, Armstrong Street, Grimsby. N.E. Lincolnshire DN31 2QE Make cheque payable to Business Link Magazine Group & Call now to subscribe on 01472 310301 8 or order online www.lincolnshiretoday.net/341 Total Price: £27.55 Subscribe today 4 great reasons to subscribe... 3 Each issue is brimming with a diverse topic range... • Heritage • Fashion • Hair & Beauty • Leisure • Homes & Gardens • County Motoring • Dining Out • What’s On • Free Reader Giveaways and much much more… 3 First 3 issues only £1! 3 FREE delivery to your door 3 Receive your copy before it hits the shops or Scan QR Code T M £2.95 M StfoStamford Visiting d bibusiness Family gardens Homes a s d CitCaistor Cosy b WWW.LINCWWW.LINC OLNSHIRETOOLNSHIRETO ODAYNEODAYNE BLM www.blmgroup.co.uk T Country Farm & Lik fashion Seasona LilLincoln Visiting l Educatio OLNSHIRETODAYNEOLNSHIRETODAY WWWLINCWWW.LINC T JU £2.95 ULY2024 Support Cancer M acmill l Healtha Horncas Visiting ad stl motimotoring County fitness WWW.LINCWWW.LINC CONHROCONSHREO OD AY.NET OD AY.NET BLM www.blmgroup.co.uk First 3 issues for £1 Looking for a great gift idea? A gift Subscription is the perfect present that lasts all year round!26 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY LOUTH L outh’s name is believed to derive from a Saxon term, potentially signifying ‘loud,’ linked to the nearby River Lud. It was the 9th century that first began to shake things up for the town, as the Danes conquered Lincolnshire and destroyed one of its first major landmarks, a monastery that had stood since two centuries earlier. Since the construction of a canal in the 1770s, Louth has flourished as a bustling market community. Its weekly market brims with local produce, crafts, and vendors showcasing the town’s diverse offerings. Present-day Louth is renowned for its vibrant shopping scene, encompassing a busy market square and high street. But look for the side streets secreted away from the main thoroughfare, and you’ll find even more unique treasures, plus a sprinkling of well-known brands nestled within its Georgian and Victorian architecture. Louth’s array of independent retailers particularly captivates visiting foodies, ranging from bakeries like Pocklington’s to butcher shops like Meridian Meats, artisanal cheese shops and numerous dining establishments. But for people of any interest from fashion to antiques and curios, the allure of the town’s specialty shopping is irresistible, with its variety that always gives you a reason to return. In addition to craft and clothing boutiques, the indoor market offers a selection of quirky and unusual stalls, making it an ideal destination for finding gifts. Locals also find a wealth of clubs Lots to love about Louth Rich history, great shopping, wonderful landmarks – there’s lots to love about Louth, and yet many in Lincolnshire may never have visited. LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 27 LOUTH and societies to nurture their hobbies, from sport and martial arts to photography and dance. For history enthusiasts, Louth Museum stands as one of the town’s premier attractions. Comprising four galleries and an intelligently combined classroom and library, the museum provides an award- winning glimpse into days gone by. The Town Gallery showcases items crafted or used in Louth, boasting the nation’s largest collection of works by Victorian woodcarver and artist Thomas Wilkinson Wallis of Louth. The exhibits of Wallis’ work range from intricate lime-wood birds and foliage to oak furnishings and a Punch and Judy cabinet. The Mezzanine Gallery instead delves into more recent history, its main feature an interactive account of the devastating Louth Flood of 1920. Dominating the town’s skyline is the towering parish church of St. James, which rises some 300 feet above Louth. It stands as one of the most prominent and renowned landmarks in the vicinity, distinguished by its Gothic architecture and intricate stained-glass windows, visible from nearly every corner of the town. Louth’s beauty has a magnetic pull, an indefinable magic that has attracted celebrity visitors and even residents in its time. One notable example is Robert Wyatt, the founder of the prog rock band Soft Machine, who has called this charming town home since the mid- 1980s, forging a lasting connection between himself and the town, not only in presence but also through their shared artistic spirit. Actor and celebrity Warwick Davies is another familiar face often seen in Louth. His wife Samantha, herself also an actor, hails from the area and regularly comes back visiting relatives. Davies himself has been actively involved in charity events throughout the county. 28 Á © stock.adobe.com/Gill28 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY LOUTH 17 Market Place, Louth, LN119PD info@striacroft.co.uk 01507 604029 www.striacroft.co.uk Family Jewellers Established in Louth Since 1979 Large selection of Diamond, Gold & Silver Jewellery Nomination Retailer Agents for Citizen, Iron Annie, Zeppelin, Lorus & Kronaby Watches Pre Owned Rolex & Omega Watches Jewellery & Watch Repairs. Yet more notable figures who have been drawn to Louth include Winston Churchill, acclaimed writer Julian Fellowes, and the eclectic pop artist Björk, who found inspiration in the local market and cafés while collaborating on an album with Wyatt. But this profound connection is not limited to the rich or famous; it resonates across the community and its vibrant diversity of residents and, in fact, unites them all no matter their walk of life. Louth is steeped in culture to a depth that distinguishes itself from many a market town. The Playhouse Cinema, with its art deco facade, was transformed from a Victorian chapel in the 1920s and, despite numerous renovations, retains some of its original features. The cinema offers a mid-movie intermission, providing moviegoers a moment of reflection or a chance to enjoy ice cream from the friendly staff. Alongside popular blockbusters, the cinema showcases independent and art house films, as well as live streams of ballet and theatrical performances. The town’s artistic spirit is just another value embedded in the community, exemplified by the community-owned Louth Playgoers’ Riverhead Theatre, primarily run and maintained by volunteers. Located on Victoria Road, the building hosts a diverse array of shows, appealing to audiences of all ages, with options ranging from family- friendly to introspective productions. For many, Louth’s vibrant arts community is epitomised by Off The Beaten Tracks, an independent record shop. Stepping inside offers a glimpse into the town’s musical © stock.adobe.com/GillLINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 29 LOUTH Woolliss & Son Butchers –– AWARD-WINNING LINCOLNSHIRE BUTCHERS –– LOOKING FOR A TOP QUALITY BUTCHERS IN LINCOLNSHIRE? Look no further, we have a proven track record when it comes to providing top quality cuts of meat and home made pastries at a competitive price. We are proud of our locally sourced produce and our 5 star hygiene rating. 29-31 Mercer Row, Louth LN11 9JG. T: 01507 603230 E: orders@woolliss-butchers.co.uk W: woolliss-butchers.co.uk R. ARNOLD Funeral Directors Independent Family Funeral Directors Est 28 Years We take care of the smallest of details with compassion and dignity, we personalise every service for each family. Woodhall Spa 01526 341 707 Lincoln: 01522 542 701 Sutton-on-Sea: 01507 442 300 Mablethorpe: 01507 473 100 Alford: 01507 463 200 Louth: 01507 608 200 Email: rarnoldlincoln@gmail.com www.rarnoldfuneralservice.com scene, with numerous local bands and musicians, complemented by the nearby Pump House Recording Studio. The shop still gets significant footfall from loyal patrons since its move to Aswell Street, certainly not hurt by the ongoing vinyl record renaissance. In an era where record shops are scarce, Off The Beaten Tracks proudly contributes to Louth’s cultural identity. Beyond its architectural charm, rich history and diverse shops, Louth boasts stunning natural beauty. Hubbard’s Hills, an ideal spot for picnics, enchants visitors year-round. With amenities available, a children’s play park, and the iconic stepping stones across the water, this and the surrounding Wolds countryside are both major attractions for locals and visitors alike. Louth is a town its residents have immense pride in, and on the surface it’s already easy to see why. With its captivating history and vibrant artistic community, it easily shines as one of the UK’s finest market destinations. But by far the best way to truly understand its characteristic vibe and charm is to go down and experience it for yourself. © stock.adobe.com/Gill © stock.adobe.com/GillNext >