Dark time is planting time
Not many of his customers know that, he experiences. Nor that right now they can make an effort to better climate-proof their gardens, while nature seems to stand still around us:
– The best time to plant is actually from November to March. Of course, you still have to be able to stick a shovel in the ground. That can be the biggest challenge.
– We often have 14 days a year when it’s frozen, he tells one of the quiet days when almost everything goes up in Christmas decorations and chopped fir.
And then you probably also have to accept that everything in the garden will not be like in the old days. When the climate changes and the temperatures move north, some plants hang more with the stem, while others perk up.
The perennial Farvebelg is among Martin Holmriis’ water-swallowing favourites. This is because they are available in several colours. This is a white color pod, despite the red stem. this is because it gets white flowers. Photo: Bo Lehm
For water and heat
Not many garden owners think like him, who has planted quite a few himself. And it’s a shame, Martin Holmriis experiences:
– We have had some very wet springs recently and not long ago some very dry summers. But it’s not something you just have to get used to.
You can plant something that will prevent the lawn from becoming something you slip rubber boots around in when the water meter is about to drown and the driveway threatens to look like the prelude to a swimming pool.
Decisive advantage
For example, you can plant Himalayan birch. A species of birch that is not yet seen very often in this country. It is just as thirsty as better-known birch varieties, but has a decisive advantage.
Many garden owners are a little afraid of planting birch, because the trunks can grow up to 15 meters high, and they seem to be made to form the basis of a neighborly feud.
The Himalayan birch grows only six to eight meters high. There is also good growth in it, so it can provide life-giving shade in a spot in the garden on thirsty summer days.
The Himalayan birch is not so well known in the gardens here at home. But it could be if last year’s rainfall continues. Photo: Bo Lehm
In the same more unknown category is the water fir. It comes from China and has been cultivated to a lesser extent in Denmark for almost 80 years. Besides having thirsty roots, it is also special in shedding needles, just as deciduous trees shed leaves.
In the lower section there are also shrubs that do well in loose soil. And which likes to keep alive within itself if it gets its roots stuck in winter cold soil.
Medlars – there are trees, but mostly planted as shrubs – are among the most obvious. And dogwoods, which can become three to five meter tall bushes.
– Dogwoods are available in both red, green, yellow and orange, so you can put together bushes according to your own taste, says the plant expert.
You can make a difference right down to the flower bed. Here, in particular, the large family of perennials is ready for a small drinking party from the rainfall.
Here, Martin Holmriis is particularly enthusiastic about the color pod species, which actually do best when sown in winter or autumn.
Blue-purple flowers and a fresh green color on stem and leaves do to the eye what the roots’ thirsty suction of water does to dehumidify the garden.
2024-12-03 18:34:00
#Ready #climate #action #Martin #gearing #garden
What are the benefits of choosing native plants for a climate-resilient garden?
## Interview with a Garden Expert
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today, we’re talking about climate-proof gardening, a crucial topic as our weather becomes increasingly unpredictable. Joining us is Martin Holmriis, a local gardening expert. Martin, thanks for being here.
**Martin Holmriis:** Pleasure to be here.
**Host:** Let’s dive right in. You’ve said something surprising: that now is actually the best time to plant.
**Martin Holmriis:** That’s right! Many people assume spring is the planting season, but actually November to March is ideal. The ground is often still workable, and the plants have all winter to establish their roots before the stress of summer heat.
**Host:** So, we need to think ahead, even when it feels like winter is settling in?
**Martin Holmriis:** Exactly. And there’s more to consider than just planting time. Climate change brings more extreme weather – heavy rains, followed by droughts. We need to choose plants that can handle these swings.
**Host:** What are some specific strategies gardeners should adopt?
**Martin Holmriis:** Think about drainage. Birch trees, for example, love water, but some varieties grow incredibly tall. The Himalayan birch stays smaller, provides shade, so it’s a great option for hotter, drier summers.
**Host:** Any other suggestions for climate-proofing our gardens?
**Martin Holmriis:** Choose native plants whenever possible. They’re well adapted to our local climate. And diversify your plantings! Don’t rely on just a few species. It makes your garden more resilient to pests and disease.
**Host:** Great tips, Martin. Thanks for sharing your expertise.