I’m a gardening pro – the viral Facebook mum trend I hate, it’s far from ‘beautiful’ & don’t get me started on pallets
IT’S the trend that mums all over the country swore by to update their gardens.
But one gardening expert has insisted using a shower curtain to make your green space more aesthetically pleasing and “mimic a beautiful view” is sure to lead to a whole host of problems.
“Unfortunately, if they become wet and are not allowed to dry properly, shower curtains can develop mould and mildew, which can be harmful to plants and unpleasant for gardeners,” a pro at St. Modwen Homes explained.
“This makes them a less-than-ideal choice for any garden project.
“As they require constant maintenance, they can cause more problems than they solve.”
The experts also named some other viral gardening hacks that are too good to be true – including pallets used to make decking or furniture.
“Pallets are often made from low-grade wood that is not treated for outdoor use, making them prone to rotting, warping, and splintering when exposed to the elements,” they explained.
“Furthermore, the wood used in pallets generally has a shorter lifespan compared to traditional decking materials.
“Pallets are not designed to bear significant weight over time as flooring material, which can lead to structural weaknesses and even potential collapse.
“This not only compromises safety, but also results in a less durable and less visually appealing outdoor space.”
Another hack gardening fans have been sharing on TikTok is gluing down stones to the floor to keep them in place.
But doing so can lead to several costly issues.
“Glued stones can prevent proper water drainage, leading to water pooling or runoff issues, which can negatively affect plant growth and in some cases, more serious damage,” the experts said.
“Plus, glued stones are permanent, making it difficult to rearrange or remove them if you ever want to change your garden’s design in the future.”
You’re also preventing insects and small animals using loose stones as shelter.
June gardening jobs
The Sun's Gardening Editor, Veronica Lorraine, has shared the tasks you should take this month.
Stake out leggy perennials
With all the dramatic weather we’ve been having, it’s definitely time to stake out your leggy perennials (the ones that come back every year). Heavy rain and growth spurts, can make them collapse and flop.
Picking out the slugs and snails
Hopefully as we move into summer they will do less damage as the plants get bigger. The best way is still to go out at night with a head torch to find them.
Pick elderflower heads
You can use them to make your own cordial, or add to cakes, champagne or even fry them in batter.
Get on top of weeds
It’s around now that weeds really ramp up in the garden, so keep on top of them with hoe-ing – or just the traditional ‘on your knees with a hand fork’. Try and avoid chemicals – remember weeds are just plants in the wrong place.
Up the mowing
You’ll need to mow your lawn weekly now – if you’ve got time, weed it beforehand as once you mow you chop off the leaves and its harder to see them.
Check on your tomatoes
Your tomato plants will need attention – water, feed and regularly and pinch out the sideshoots.
Chelsea Chop
There’s still time for the Chelsea Chop – plants like Rudbeckia’s, Asters, Penstemons, Sedums and other perennials can be cut back by a third to help them get a bit more bushy, and prolong the flowering period.
Sort out your tulips
If you can be bothered and have space – lift and story your tulip bulbs to ensure colour next Spring.
Deadheading your roses
Take them down to the first set of healthy leaves – which will ensure more flowers for longer.
Enjoy your space
Take some time to sit and enjoy your garden or outside space – it’s great for your mental health. Even just a few minutes a day can make a big difference.
“Gluing stones reduces available habitats for these organisms, disrupting the natural balance of your garden’s ecosystem,” they concluded.
The experts also advise against using DIY aerating shoes – which can “do more harm than good to your lawn’s overall health” – and no-dig garden beds, which can “attract pests such as rodents and insects, and damage your current landscape, and future plants”.