The ladies from the floral art class held last Tuesday in the Men’s Shed (interested people can contact the club if they want to attend classes) also exhibited some impressive displays.

Phil kept the group’s attention as he discussed autumn in the garden.

He said that as the days grew shorter, air and soil temperatures decreased, which slowed down plant growth.

Roots respond to soil which is still relatively warm, which can help establish (new) plants for spring/summer, and watering is also reduced.

Many tubers/bulbs/rhizomes can be divided in autumn, with newer growth providing flowers in spring and summer.

New season roses can be selected and fruit trees will benefit from a feed of fertiliser.

Now is also a good time to add lime or gypsum to balance the ph of soil.

Phil then displayed a wide selection of plants that will live happily in the area, and also some indoor plants that improve air quality indoors by absorbing pollutants through leaves and root systems.

The club meets on the last Thursday in April in the Anglican Church hall, Herarde Street, at 2pm.

Everyone is welcome.