The Growing Edge – August 2016

BLERICK TREE FARM IS UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

As of July 1st, Blerick Tree Farm and Country Retreat is now under new ownership. Business continues to trade as usual and all standing orders are remaining current without changes.

Last Chance to Order Bare Root Trees

Many varieties of bare root trees are sold out,  but there are still a lot of wonderful trees to be had. Give us a call with any last minute requests and we will work with our network of growers to see what we can find.

What's Looking Great

Laurus nobilis – Bay Tree or Bay Laurel

In celebration of the Olympics, we are featuring the humble Bay Tree. Wreaths of the bay laurel were originally placed on the heads of victors, with the tradition now moving to the past in preference for shiny medals.

Once established, these are nearly indestructible plants with dark glossy evergreen foliage. Small yellowish fluffy flowers appear among the foliage followed by small dark berries.

This tree will grow very slowly to a height of 7-8m but can be kept trimmed to almost any size. It can be placed in a sunny or partly shaded position and will withstand long periods of dry conditions as well as heavy frost once established.

Simple Winter Tasks

– Prune deciduous trees.

Fruit trees and ornamentals will both improve after a light prune. Try to keep an open vase shape on your fruit trees to allow as much light as possible into the branches.

– Top up mulch on garden beds.

– Spray your nectarines and peaches for curly leaf

– Apply slow release fertilisers so that it can start releasing nutrients as soon as the warmer weather hits.

Winter Accommodation

Snow season is here. We still have the odd vacancy in our cosy wood fire cottages if you are looking at a country getaway or day tripping to Mount Baw Baw and it's surrounds.