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A well run garden can be kept looking good without minimum work if it
is designed and planted with care, steps taken to remove wherever
possible, things that cause a lot of, or regular, recurring work
Key to this is the compost heap (see Page ). Don't overfeed the
garden, it causes excessive soft growth that is more prone to pest and
disease attack. Always cover the soil. mulch, use 'stepping stones' so
that you do not need to tread on the soil, which compacts it.
Pest and Disease Control Encourage nature's scavengers -
birds, and 'diggers' - worms. Use of pesticides should only be used in
exceptional circumstance, it is almost always best to use cultural
methods of prevention and control. Always dispose of diseased material
out of the garden unless you can burn it. Grow a wide range of plants
to reduce the likelyhood of a build up of pests or disease.
Weed Control Do not let weeds proliferate, they compete
with desirable plants, often harbour pests, look a mess. Use cultural
methods of control where appropriate, especially mulching, or hoeing. Bare
soil always grows weeds. Judicious use of herbicides as part of a
sensible programme to rid a garden of certain weeds is well worth
while. The priority is never to let weeds seed, and
don't put weed seeds, or perennial weed roots in your compost heap.
Planting Grow a wide range of plants, suitable for your
soil, situation and conditions, and chosen not to cause unnecessary
work in the future. Know the potential of your plants, and do not let
them get out of control. Careful pruning or training from an early
stage will usually give you a better shaped and better size plant.
Grow plants that give you good all round value for the space they take
up, flowers, foliage, shape, birds and butterflies, scent etc.
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