Search - Articles

Follow Joe Swift's video guide to planting, training and pruning passion flowers.summerMore about growing climbing plantsPlanting a clematis, with advice from Sarah RavenCreating a rustic trellisUsing plant supports

For two years, I have been trying to grow climbing plants to cover the walls of my garden. I've planted honeysuckle, passion flower, jasmine, numerous clematis and a revolting rose I found in the street. Some died, others developed mildew, while

close-up and personal with more unusual varieties than the common Galanthus nivalis, perhaps I would be converted.Don’t get me wrong. Over the years I’ve had passions for particular plants, such as pineapple flowers (Eucomis), but I haven’t gone so far

, such as flower form, colour and scent, with the repeat-flowering characteristics and performance of new varieties. This was admirably captured in 'Graham Thomas', one of his first English roses.I was charmed by 'Graham Thomas' from the moment I set eyes on it. I

don't know what all the fuss is about. Shearing the whole clump back to ground level will rejuvenate it and, though it seems brutal, will allow the plant a fresh start. Once again there will be neat rosettes and, with luck, a few more flowers in late

Feeling fruityI've hand-picked a few favourites that will certainly whet the appetite - they're all tried and tested for flavour and reliability.When it comes to fruit, I'm passionate about eating and growing as much as possible in its proper season