The weather has continued to be dominated by the cold air from mid europe in the first half of January 2010. Snow has remained on the ground  for long periods in this part of Kent. Work at Iris of Sissinghurst has stopped for any external ground work in the stock beds.  The daytime temperatures have hovered around freezing point so only occasional days, even in the tunnels, have been available to work on the under cover plants. This has included some work on removing old leaves (still acting as host for some green fly) and subsequent spraying for vine weevils in the potted sibiricas when the temperature has been acceptable. Vine weevils are not interested in bearded iris because the root systems are not a suitable host but sibirica, versicolors, ensata's etc are attractive to vine weevils in pots as well as in the ground so regular treatment is strongly recommended.

The plants under cover have experienced very little rot because the watering regime is controlled. Iris lovers are recommended to regularly inspect their iris in the garden for signs of rot during winter months. The risk of rot is increased when the rhizomes become covered by surrounding earth or even autumn falling leaves. Gentle touching of the rhizome will identify any softening of the tissue - a sure sign of rot damage. Rot can be cut out in the early stages provided it has not advanced too much. Iris are very hardy plants and can survive a degree of careful surgery but of course the cause of the rot needs to be tackled. Grit around the plant, allowing any surface water to disperse quickly, always helps, particularly on clay or other similiar soils.

Early December in Kent has been dominated by mild temperatures and continuous bouts of rain. Fortunately for the nursery a decision was made in the autumn to increase the nos of potted plants placed under cover.This includes a number of new varieties that will be available in 2010.Those potted plants under cover can follow a strict watering regime whereas those potted plants in the open can experience too much watering. The  plants in the stock beds have of course welcomed the rain following the really dry summer and the addition of gravel around the surface of the plants ensures efficient drainage thus avoiding potential damage to the plant.

The days leading up to Christmas has seen the  temperatures drop and rain replaced by snow and freezing conditions. Iris plants do not mind these conditions and in fact ensure the enforced hibernation of plants  before starting to regrow in early spring. Of course the snow has accumulated ontop of the polytunnel and solartunnels and we have had fun clearing the heavy snow from the tunnels to avoid any damage to the structures. Whilst the snow looks enchanting for a few days the novelty does wear off particularly if it causes too much disruption to everyday life. A prolonged cold but dry mid winter would be nice.

We are looking forward to a few days off over the Christmas and New Year period but will be available for telephone or email enquiries during normal office hours.

We would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. 

Many people wonder what happens to those Chelsea plants that are not sold.

Richard Cayeux decided that approx100 plants from the 2009 Chelsea Show should be given to a charity in London for residents in Balham to enjoy.Sue Marshall visited the area with Richard Cayeux to help plant the Iris and give advice about their future maintenance.