Horsetail.
This is the correct common name for Equisetum arvense, an extremely invasive plant difficult to eradicate. It is erroneously called ‘mares-tail’, Hippurus vulgaris which is a flowering plant growing in the pond in the Royal Botanic Garden. Horsetail have been around since pre-historic times and species helped to form the coal seams. The field horsetail is prevalent in a number of local gardens and along by the top path to Ferry Road.
In the springtime, brown spikes emerge from the ground and have cone shaped flower heads bearing spores. Later the shoots emerge with their whorls of bright green foliage resembling conifers. Below ground are their deeply penetrating black roots. It is said that if it is growing in your garden, either sell your house or write to your friends in New Zealand to let go the other end! What can be done is to dig it out regularly as deeply as you can and prevent it from producing green foliage which manufactures the life giving food.
Do not dispair, in the 18th and 19th centuries, the stems which contain silica were used to scour pots and pans. Residents could save some money by harvesting the plants along by the footpath.
Bulbs and corms.
Now is the time to plant bulbs and corms for spring colour. When planting in the ground, the base of the bulb or corm should be twice the depth from the surface. If growing in planters or pots, ensure that there is a drainage hole in the bottom. Protect tulips and crocus from squirrels and mice which enjoy eating them.
When planting lilies, fork in well rotted garden compost; make holes at least twice the depth of the bulb, spread a layer of coarse sand and set the bulbs a few inches apart and place a handful of sand over the top. Fill in loosely, but do not firm, and mark the boundary with short canes to remind you where the bulbs are.
Remembrance Sunday, Warriston Cemetery
A short Service of Remembrance is held at 10. 00 on Sunday 12th November at the War Memorial. This is down to the right hand side of the cemetery.
Bill Tait
留言