Beauty of Frost in Gardens
21st November 2024 My Garden Grooves Radio Script
Welcome to Garden Grooves, the place where music and nature meets! I’m Mario, and today’s episode is inspired by the frosty magic of cold mornings and icy evenings we currently have in Scotland. We will explore the beauty of frost in gardens, share some cool tips for winter gardening, and, of course, enjoy an hour of frosty grooves to keep you chilled and inspired.”
It’s going to be a crisp night with low’s as -4 degrees, with chances of odd isolated snow showers with frost sparkling on everything from rooftops to the tiniest blades of grass. So Bundle up!
Music.
Welcome back or welcome if you just joined…
So first - let’s focus on the science side of Frost in your Garden
By the way if you had any questions garden related, tonight’s topic is FROST SO please let me know by messaging directly into our studio using the Stirling Community Radio App
So how frost forms:
Frost occurs when the temperature dips below freezing, and water vapour in the air crystallises on surfaces like leaves and soil.
The impact of frost on plants:
Frost can damage delicate plants, causing cell walls to rupture. BUT, frost also enhances the beauty of plants like evergreens and seed heads.
My tips for frost Protection…
Water your plants during the day so the soil retains heat overnight.
Use frost cloths, blankets, or burlap to cover vulnerable plants.
Create wind barriers with hay bales or evergreen branches.
Music
I am back with my Winter Plant Spotlight - that thrives in frosty and cold weather:
Hellebores (Christmas roses): Bloom in winter and thrive in cold climates.
Winter jasmine: A cheerful yellow flower that blooms despite the chill.
Snowdrops: These delicate white flowers push through snow and frost.
What’s your favourite winter plant? Let me know by messaging me using our Stirling community radio app…
Music
Coming up MY GARDENING TIPS
Gardening in November can be a productive time FOLKS, depending on your location and climate. It’s a great month to prepare for winter, clean up your garden, and even plant a few hardy crops or bulbs. Here’s my general guide:
1. Clean Up and Maintain
Remove Dead Plants: Clear out annuals and any dead or dying perennials. Compost healthy plant material but discard any diseased plants to prevent overwintering pests.
Rake Leaves: Use fallen leaves for mulch or add them to your compost.
Weed Control: Pull weeds before they go to seed or establish roots over the winter.
Mulch: Spread mulch to insulate soil and protect plant roots during freezing weather.
2. Prepare Soil for Spring
Add Compost or Manure: Enrich your soil with organic matter to improve fertility.
Till Soil: Turn the soil in vegetable beds to expose pests to the cold.
Cover Crops: Plant cover crops (like clover or rye) to protect soil and add nutrients.
Music
3. Planting
Garlic and Shallots: November is the perfect time to plant garlic and shallots in most regions.
Spring Bulbs: If the ground hasn’t frozen yet, plant tulips, daffodils, and other spring-blooming bulbs.
Bare-Root Trees and Shrubs: These can be planted in late fall when they’re dormant.
4. Protect Perennials and Shrubs
Cut Back Perennials: Trim dead growth from perennials like hostas and daylilies, but leave seed heads for birds.
Wrap Shrubs: Protect sensitive shrubs with burlap or frost cloth if you expect harsh winter winds.
Water: Give shrubs and trees a deep watering before the ground freezes.
Music
That’s me back with my final 3 tips of winter gardening…
5. Indoor Gardening
Start Herbs: Grow herbs like basil, thyme, and parsley indoors.
Inspect Houseplants: Check for pests and reduce watering as growth slows.
6. Wildlife and Pest Control
Provide Habitat: Leave some seed heads and brush piles for birds and beneficial insects.
Protect from Critters: Use fencing or netting to protect young trees from deer and rabbits.
7. Tools and Equipment
Clean Tools: Wash and sharpen your gardening tools for storage.
Store Hoses: Drain and store hoses to prevent freezing.
Gardening in November sets the stage for a thriving garden in the spring while maintaining a tidy and healthy space through the winter.
Music
Here are my final thoughts for tonight’s show….
“Winter may seem cold and harsh, but it’s also a time for reflection and renewal. Frost reminds us that even the quietest moments can be breathtaking.”
As the frost settles and the day warms up, let’s remember to embrace the beauty of every season in our gardens and our lives. Thank you for spending this hour with me on Garden Grooves. Stay warm, stay inspired, and see you next time!”
“Next week, we’re diving into Evergreens and the Holiday Spirit. We’ll explore the festive side of gardening with music and tips for the season.”
The End..