If you want to buy any of the plants mentioned below for your own
garden, visit www.countrylife.co.uk/nursery and type or copy and paste
the name into the search. Plants are delivered in sturdy boxes in a
matter of days from one of the finest nurseries in the country.
The gooseberry is rather out of vogue at present, but that need not trouble those who love its interesting texture and flavour. It will rise again. It requires simple pruning. Firstly, understand that it should vaguely resemble a wine glass, with a short leg crowned by a rising ring of pale and slender shoots. Put on leather gloves and arm protection, and remove any shoots that don't conform to this neat ideal. Then, shorten this year's growth (you'll see) by half, leaving an outward-facing bud at each shoot tip. It takes longer than you might think, because of the prickles.
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Dawn Chorus: A Blue Plaque for Marc Bolan, holidaying in the Caribbean with Francis Ford Coppola and a history of the National Gallery in 25 picturesPlus the best of the property pages, and how the railways will save the countryside.
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Game, set, match: 12 of the world’s most beautiful tennis courtsFrom Italy to Indonesia, when it comes to hotel amenities, a picturesque tennis court will always trump a 24-hour gym. So, before you book your next holiday, take a look at our pick of the 12 best.
