July: The Joys of Summer
Hi ,
Summer is officially underway in the UK, and with it this month comes plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy the sun.
The Wimbledon Tennis Tournament got started on the 3rd of July, and there is no better way to get into the spirit of the competition than a punnet of strawberries with cream. Why not try growing your own strawberries at home to enjoy? You could grow them in a variety of spots regardless of the space you have available. Great options are pots, hanging baskets, and raised beds. Just as long as they are in a sunny spot, you’ll have delicious fruit to enjoy in no time!
On Saturday the 8th of July, I’ll be back in the gardening heart of Cheshire for a brand new event, helping you to get your children gardening. There will be plenty of activities to entertain and inspire your children. Plus, ideas to try at home, as well as food and drink to enjoy. Encourage your children to find joy in gardening at a young age, and buy your tickets here.
On the weekend of the 15th and 16th of July, you can catch me at Belvoir Castle Flower and Garden Show 2023. This wonderful event celebrates garden design and the beauty of horticulture. You can find me at the talks and demonstrations marquee on both days, so make sure you book your tickets in advance. And don’t worry if you can’t make it to this event. I will be at Shrewsbury Flower Show next month, on the 11th and 12th of August.
This July, make sure you make the most of your garden space with the whole family! For advice and my best gardening tips, visit my website and YouTube channel.
Happy gardening!
David
Gardening tip of the month
How to dry out rose petals:
Collect your petals
Visit your roses, and collect up any petals that you might want to use. ONLY use the petals of flowers that have not been sprayed with pesticides, particularly if you plan on ingesting them. Always rinse them in lukewarm water to make sure there isn’t any debris or insects on them, then let them dry out a little.
The Oven Method
Preheat your oven to 80°C, then line your baking tray with baking paper. Spread your rose petals out in a single layer, not touching each other. Pop them on the bottom shelf of your oven for 15-30 minutes, checking them regularly and turning them over. Once they are crisp and before they lose their colour, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool before storing.
The Microwave Method
Cover a microwave-safe plate in kitchen roll, and scatter your rose petals over the top, making sure they aren’t touching. Then pop the plate in the microwave for 30 seconds intervals. After every 30 seconds, check your petals, and turn them over if you think they need it. Once you think they are dry enough, they are done! I found this took about 3 minutes of 30 second intervals.
Step 4. Give it time
Known to be the most effective method is air drying your rose petals. Spread them in a single layer on a mesh surface, and store them away from direct sunlight and breezes. Try to find a ventilated, low-moisture space. Turn them twice a day so they dry evenly, and quickly. They should be dried within a week! Store all of your dried petals in a clean, airtight jar or container until you are ready to use them.
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Congratulations! Keep your eyes peeled for other competitions in July.
David Domoney is a Chartered Horticulturalist, Broadcaster, and Author. David has worked with a number of the UK’s leading garden retailers as a plant buyer and strategic consultant. With more than 30 years experience, in horticulture, David is as passionate about plants now as he was when he bought his first plant at a village fete.
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