1 month ago
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EVER wondered why the flowers at garden centres are always bursting with colour, standing taller, and looking fresher than the ones in your own garden?
It’s not just down to expensive fertilisers or picture-perfect placement, professionals often use a surprisingly unusual item to give their plants a powerful head start – and you have probably thrown it away.
GettyAn old kitchen essential could be the key to bigger and better blooms[/caption]
Construction Certification have teamed up with garden specialist Dawn Ridgewell to share the behind-the-scenes trick that makes garden centre displays so impressive. The secret? An old kitchen sponge.
“This is one of those little hacks that works wonders,” says Ridgewell.
“We place a sponge beneath the root ball when planting. It soaks up water and releases it slowly — keeping moisture exactly where the plant needs it.
“It’s such a simple thing, but it makes a massive difference.”
Sponges, which can be picked up for 40p in Tesco, help prevent soil from drying out too quickly and support root development during the crucial first few weeks after planting.
While most gardeners focus on what’s above the soil, this clever moisture trap below the surface helps flowers bloom brighter and last longer.
“It’s especially useful in pots, hanging baskets, and smaller beds where the soil dries out fast,” Ridgewell adds.
“Garden centres use it because it works — and you can do it at home with things you already have.”
Here are some of Ridgewell’s top professional tips for show-stopping blooms — sponge included:
Place a sponge under the root ball – “It acts as a hidden moisture reservoir and keeps watering more consistent.”
Soak roots before planting – “A hydrated start helps the plant settle and recover from transplant shock.”
Break up compacted soil – “It gives the roots freedom to grow and prevents waterlogging.”
Mulch immediately – “It keeps the topsoil cooler, locks in water and makes everything look tidier.”
Tilt plants slightly forward – “Angled planting helps flowers face the sun and makes displays appear fuller.”
“These are all tricks we use every day — but you’d rarely find them on a label,” she says.
Gardening mistakes that could get you fined
Gardening experts over at Toolstation have revealed the garden laws you need to be aware of not breaking.
While some of these laws could land you with a fine of up to £20,000 in extreme cases, a friendly chat with your neighbours can usually resolve any issues.
Tree removal and pruning: If you have a tree in your garden you want to get rid of you better think twice and do your research.
The gardening experts reveal: “If one neighbour wishes to remove or heavily prune a tree that the other neighbour values, disputes can arise over the impact on the view, shade, or privacy. “
While it might cause a row, if it is in your property boundary it is ultimately your choice, unless it has a Tree Protection Order on it.
“But, some trees may be protected by a Tree Protection Order which makes it an offence to uproot, top or destroy them, the experts warn.
The maximum fine for breaking this law is £20,000, so make sure you double check if it does have a TPO.
You can find out by contacting your local council for a map that shows this information. Alternatively, you can ask to speak with your local tree officer.
Property boundaries and fences: One of the main causes of neighbours falling out is through arguing over property boundaries and fencing.
To avoid this situation, the gardening pros recommend checking the deeds of your property to determine the correct boundaries
“Most of the time, it’s easy to determine who owns the fence as the fence posts will usually be on the owners side,” they add.
“Additionally, the height of fences or hedges can cause disputes between neighbours if one party feels the height has exceeded the two metre guidance.
“Hedges and fences should be no more than two metres high, and you could be asked by the council to take them down if a neighbour complains about the height.
“Luckily, standard fence sizes are less than two metres tall so you shouldn’t have a problem.”
Garden structures and additions: A pergola is the perfect addition to a garden if you want somewhere to relax in the shade.
But if it obstructs your neighbour’s view or violates local building regulations it could cause a dispute, as can sheds and other garden structures.
“If you’re not sure, have a chat with your neighbours to let them know what you’re planning and, if there’s an issue, get in touch with your local council who can give you more guidance,” advise the gardening experts.
Overhanging branches and plants: “When branches, vines, or roots from one neighbour’s tree or plant extend into the neighbouring property, it can lead to disagreements over potential damage to structures, blocked views, or the burden of maintenance,” reveal the pros.
However, it’s important to note you can only trim overhanging branches up to the boundary of your property otherwise, it could be seen as trespassing.
You can climb into the tree to carry out the work if needed, but only on your property and make sure to stay on your side of the fence if you don’t have permission to enter your neighbours garden.
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