Gardening books may explain how to propagate plants, but can lack detail on the aftercare needed. Delicate seedlings can be protected by installing a simple nursery bed in the garden.
Extra protection
Often, newly-propagated plants are too small to fend for themselves and require additional care. One solution is to move the plants to a nursery bed, which is a sheltered and fertile border. Alternatively, you can grow the young plants in pots in a sheltered area.
Do remember, however, that while only a small area is required for seed trays, the resulting seedlings will take up more space whether they are potted up or planted in soil.
Nursery bed
After improving your nursery bed by adding a bucketful of rotted organic matter for every square metre, plant out the seedlings as soon as they are large enough to handle. Plant in rows about 40-50cm apart with 30-40cm between the plants. Water every 10 days in dry spells and, in spring, apply general- purpose fertiliser such as Growmore. Every winter undercut your plants’ roots with a spade to promote fibrous roots.
For a container nursery, pot up plants in small containers using proprietary compost. Continue to pot into larger containers until the plants are big enough to plant out. Careful watering and feeding are vital for good, rapid growth.
Woody plants benefit from severe winter pruning to promote bushy, well-branched growth. Prompt treatment of pests and diseases will prevent damage to vulnerable youngsters.
Leigh Hunt