the insider
The home of Cranbery grow how
It's a round the clock job to nurture a cranberry bog to its glorious scarlet harvest every autumn. Peter Beaton, a 4th generation cranberry grower from Lakeville, Massachusetts explains why: "Every day brings something different, whether it's waking up early to protect the berries from the spring frost, flooding the bog for the harvest, or trading stories with the team. Growing cranberries is just what I do. And I'm proud of that."
We might not have cranberry bogs in our back yards but if we've been blessed with a sunny spell then May can be a busy month in the garden. Here are some handy hints to help you prepare your patch for summer.
- Mum's the word – if you've got chrysanthemums in your garden pinch 1/2 inch off each stem to make them more productive.
- Patio perfect. Give your patio a new lease of life with an eye-catching climbing rose or rambling honeysuckle.
- Veg out. May is the perfect time to plant veggies such as beans, potatoes and carrots.
- Don't be caught out by Jack Frost. Even though the days may be hotting up the nights can still be cold. Make sure soil is warm and easy to work before putting tender plants in the ground.
- Bulb mania. Plant brightly coloured bulbs now for a spray of summer colour.
- Ready, steady, grow. Perennials will be starting to shoot up, so treat them to a light lunch of fertilizer.
- Fancy a walk on the wild side? Sow mixed wild flower seeds on your lawn for an English meadow by summer.
- Tree-t yourself. Plant new trees and shrubs in May, and don't forget last minute pruning.
- Pest control. Wage war on slugs and other bothersome bugs to help reduce numbers later in the season.
- Dress to impress. String outdoor lights in trees and bushes, and look out for colourful garden furniture, so you can entertain in style.