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I quite like gardening in a low key sort of way. Support wildlife, somewhere nice to sit, grow a few herbs and veggies kind of thing.
The problem is that I'm a bit forgetful and also don't really know when and where to plant things. So I figured that I needed an almanac. I reckon that there will be loads on offer when I get around to looking but I'm inherently lazy and hopefully someone will be able to make a suggestion or two to help me.
North facing slopes, overshadowed by tall trees. Some sunshine. 150m asl. Fairly exposed. Wet soils, improved in places.
Maybe an app. exists? but try as I might I can't get the right things done in the best place at the right time. Does anyone have any suggestions?
Cheers in advance, Ambrose.
This looks worth a fiver! https://www.waterstones.com/book/gardeners-almanac-2025/greg-loades/national-trust-books/9780008641344
To be honest I would walk around your local area and make a note of what grows at similar altitude and aspect. Use your Google image search if you're not sure.
Plant that.
As stuff grows you will have created small pockets of shelter which may support less hardy plants
You will really struggle to grow veg without plenty of sun, so prioritize any sunny areas for veg. If it's only a few hours a day I wouldn't bother.
No recommendations for books as I have an unreasonable number, most of which I barely consult!
What sort of trees? As long as it’s not conifers it shouldn’t be too restrictive (or any more restrictive than a north facing slope will be). Conifers will mess with the ph a bit.
If you’re not bothered about having a special planting scheme, I’d start by looking at what your neighbours have. Some may well be happy to give you a chunk off their plants, and things that are growing enough in a neighbouring garden to need dividing are a pretty safe bet.
Don’t be tempted to spend your Easter bank holiday at a garden centre buying delicate bedding plants and baby veg! Be sure the risk of frost has passed (which is mid May for me, usually) before you spend your hard earned on anything like that.