Around The Grounds

What can our members see as they venture around our grounds this season?
As you explore our grounds this summer, you’ll be greeted by a vibrant array of newly planted seasonal bedding displays, introduced in June. Key areas of improvement include the Lockside rockery bed, enhanced pond planting, and the beautifully refined front circle Lensbury Granite sign bed.

We’ve also undertaken a significant replanting effort, selecting plant varieties that are more resilient to pests and disease. A particularly special addition is the newly planted memorial tree, Prunus Okame, standing proudly on the riverside moorings in memory of Myra Fulford, a generous donation from our club tennis players.

As you make your way towards Lockside, don’t miss our stunning flower beds. This summer, they boast breathtaking blue and purple spires of Echium Pininana, a true spectacle that also serves as a vital nectar source for our buzzing bees.

Peter, how do you and the team manage to maintain such a large area of grounds?
It takes a combination of expertise, experience, and sheer dedication. My 40 years in turf management, coupled with Karl’s 25 years as a gardener, are complemented by a close-knit, highly motivated team that works tirelessly to ensure our grounds remain in peak condition.

Karl, you’ve been at The Lensbury for 25 years, what has been your favourite project to work on during your time here?

One of the most rewarding projects I’ve had the privilege to oversee is the planting of the Prunus Kanzan tree avenue (image left) by the Lockside pool. In 2007, we planted these trees as five-year-old saplings, and it has been truly fulfilling to watch them mature into the magnificent specimens they are today.

Karl’s Top Garden Tips:

What are your key tips to let your garden flourish this summer?

Watering and pest control should be your top priorities during the summer months. To minimise evaporation, water your plants either early in the morning or after 5 PM.
Quickly identifying pests and diseases will help keep your flowering plants in top condition. Additionally, allowing spring and summer bulbs to naturally die back into the soil ensures they return strong the following year.

Are there any essential garden preparations to be doing before summer arrives?

Early spring is the ideal time for pruning shrubs and reshaping plants, just after the last frosts to avoid damage. This period is also perfect for re-defining garden beds and splitting plants for relocation. Ideally, replant just after a rainfall to minimise stress on the plants.
Applying a good mulch in early spring will help retain soil moisture during the hotter months while promoting plant health.

What’s the secret to keeping flowers blooming longer in summer?
Consistent feeding and regular deadheading will keep your flowers blooming throughout the season. Selecting a mix of plants with staggered flowering times will also ensure continuous colour and variety in your garden.

What are your top tips for protecting plants against pests?

Encouraging wildlife in your garden is one of the best natural pest control methods. Create habitats for birds, amphibians, and small mammals by leaving discreet areas with leaf and garden waste.

What’s the biggest challenge when maintaining a garden in the summer?
In summer, the biggest challenge is heat, making watering crucial. Early summer is also when pests like aphids and blackfly become most active, requiring vigilant control. Additionally, heat stress can lead to plant diseases, so monitoring and prompt action are essential.