Burwash Horticultural Society

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Green alternatives for floral foam

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• Floral foam is made from synthetic, non-recyclable plastic and is created using a combination of carbon black, formaldehyde and phenolic foam, which are all toxic. and can't be recycled or disposed of safely.

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• Its use is banned in RHS flower shows.

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• Pebbles, sand, gravel, clay, and marbles, are suitable alternatives.

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• Use compact moss or even fruit to support floral arrangements.

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• Use a kenzan or flower frog – metal devices that sit in a vase or bowl and secure stems with metal needles or guide them into holes – vintage ones are available.

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• Scrunched up chicken mesh or metal pins are also useful.

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• Pliable twigs also make a good supportive lattice for flowers to be propped against.

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Get ready for Spring​

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• Clean your greenhouse, wash glass and tidy potting shelf.

 

• Start to clear any obvious weeds before they take hold and set seeds.

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• Clean bird feeders and hang away from squirrels.​​​​​​​

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• Tie in climbers.

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• Plant dahlias in tubs.

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• Clean garden tools. Oil the wooden handles and blades.

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• Make sure blades of secateurs and loppers are sharp, oil them too.

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• Prepare your vegetable plot, dig in well rotted manure.​​​​​​

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• Consider planting shrubs that will provide food for wildlife, birds and insects in the coming year. ​​

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