Buds hint at such delights in the future
Look closely at the plump, healthy buds. One day, when temperature and light co-operate, they’ll open, some before others.
So now’s the time for any necessary late pruning of all but the cherry and plum.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdThe flowering of each is a highlight. First, the large, pink blooms of a greenhouse peach that spring a surprise in February. Pollinating them each day with a small brush to secure fruit is a labour of love.
The Victoria plum can be as unpredictable as the weather, flowering between late February and early April, sometimes in the face of a gale. But when the first ripened fruits are tasted – wow!
The flowers of soft fruits are generally less spectacular, but what delights they lead to.
We’ve a few strawberry plants potted up from the garden and now on the greenhouse bench. Plant some over the next fortnight and anticipate picking yours, home-grown, in tune with Wimbledon tennis.