GARDEN TIPS
Your down-to-earth guide to greener, happier outdoor spaces. Whether you’ve got a rambling backyard or a single pot on the balcony, Charlie’s here to help you make it thrive. Expect no-nonsense advice, a few laughs, and plenty of easy, actionable ideas to get your hands dirty (in the best way). From plant care to design tricks that make your garden sing, Charlie’s tips will have you growing with confidence — and maybe even showing off a little.
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Top 5 Flowers, Fruit or Veg To Plant In Time For Christmas
Now is the perfect time to be planting, the weather is warming up and it’s a delight to be out in the garden. It may seem crazy to be planning...
The Three Biggest Questions Charlie Gets Asked
1. How do you look after citrus?Everyone wants lemons and limes. Start with rich, well-draining soil. In sand, add compost and manure; in clay, add gypsum or compost. Water well...
Perfect Pruning - Don't Be A Fool Grab The Right Tool!
Pruning shapes plants, keeps them vigorous, and stops diseases from spreading. But it’s not one-size-fits-all—the right tool and technique matter. For hedges and topiary: Sharp shears are the way. For small-leaf...
How to Keep Trees Healthy
Losing a tree leaves a hole in the garden that money—and patience—struggle to fill. Keep them healthy and you’ll save yourself heartbreak (and a fortune). Young trees need love. Nurseries water...
Herbaceous Perennial Care
I’ve got a soft spot for herbaceous perennials. They pop up fresh in spring, strut their stuff all summer, then politely disappear underground in winter. The “herbaceous” bit means they...
Gardening in Small Spaces
A tiny garden doesn’t mean a tiny imagination. In fact, small-space gardens can feel more intimate, dramatic, and—bonus—less work. The trick? Don’t tiptoe around plants. Pack them in and blur...
The black gold for gardeners - Compost!
Compost is basically black gold for gardeners—and it’s free. It feeds the soil, boosts structure, holds water, and keeps worms happy. Add it to sand and it binds. Add it...
The Best Time to Water Your Garden
Even cacti need a drink now and then. Get watering right and your whole garden perks up. Get it wrong and you’re just wasting water and annoying your plants. Timing...
5 Gardening Tips for Beginners
When I first started gardening, I killed more plants than I kept alive. I mowed over bulbs, sprayed weed killer on the wrong things, and buried a few poor ornamentals...