Gardening with Anne McKeon in October

Posted September 25, 2018 by Josette Farrell in Features.

Gardening with Anne McKeon

In feng shui terms every garden benefits by the presence of moving water. It represents a fresh approach and clear water inspires positive feelings.

A second essential element is rock. Rocks represent a state of permanence and stability and mimics mountains. It contrasts with the softness of plants, contributing to yin and yang and balances the landscape.

Gazebos are said to ensure a happy marriage, but only if they are placed in the back garden. Being cynical, I wonder if this is where he or she resorts to in times of arguments, for a little peace and quiet, so leading to a happy home. Well, it is worth thinking about, is it not?

Patio or sitting out areas buffer the house from bad vibes and should be curved or rounded. Avoid straight lines. It is said that garden paths must be wider than the door and should never go uphill or include steps. This is very practical, if nothing else.

The entrance to your home and garden should be free from clutter in order to allow for the clear flow of energy. I know that I feel better in a tidy environment so I have no doubt that there is merit in this feng shui principle.

With regard to plants, the placement of trees is said to have a great effect on our finances. For example, if a tree is planted very close to the door it will keep money out. We all know that money does not grow on tree after all.

It is said by feng shui experts that you should ensure that your garden is in good repair or else you may not get a good nights sleep. I would have to question this point however as I can safely say that most people do not lose sleep worrying about the tidiness of their gardens. Would I be right in thinking this?

I do not take feng shui in the garden too seriously but we all have different opinions and each philosophy does have points of merit. Be governed by your own beliefs and do not be influenced by others.

Happy Gardening!

Anne.

Garden Checklist.

Plant berrying plants for winter effect and to feed the birds.

I am particularly happy with my berrying Libertia ixioides, Skimmia japonica and Viburnum setigerum this year.

Prune rambling roses. If planting new ramblers or climbers I recommend Rosa Albertine, Rosa Felicity Perpetua, Rosa Sanders White and Rosa New Dawn.
Store root crops such as carrots and beetroots in boxes of sand or ashes.
Lift begonias and store in a frost free shed.
Divide herbaceous perennial plants such as campanulas, phlox, scabiosa etc.
Plant spring flowering bulbs. Plant in groups of 3, 5, 7 etc. Prepare ground for planting fruit trees and fruit bushes.
Prune blackcurrants and gooseberries.
Make a compost heap.
Secure exposed trees and large shrubs with stakes, where necessary. Check that tree ties are secure.
Plant new rose bushes at approx. 3ft apart.
Take hardwood cutting of approx. 12inches long. Root outdoors.
Spread a net over the garden pond in order to collect falling leaves from nearby trees.
Clean down your greenhouse glass.
Plant wallflowers, forget-me-nots, pansies etc.

Anne McKeon of Gum Dearg Teoranta,

Buaile Beag, Bearna, Galway operates a Garden Design & Advisory Service. Anne presents a gardening spot on Galway Bay FM radio every second Thursday morning at 10.50am approx. and writes gardening articles for various publications. To date Anne has also written two gardening books, one for adult beginner gardeners (Don’t Forget Your Shovel) and one for children (Green Acres – Hobby Gardening For Children).

Phone: – (091) 521186 (office)

087 1441623 (mobile)