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Oaks (Quercus robur) © Ita McCobb
Cows & Oaks in parkland © Ita McCobb
Oak tree (Quercus robur) © Ita McCobb
Oak leaves (Quercus robur) © Ita McCobb

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In the Garden this month
In Nature this month

National tree week that takes place every year (this year 26 November to 4 December 2022) highlights the start of the annual tree planting season. Why not help celebrate this event by planting a tree in the garden or even in a container on a terrace or balcony.

Plant bare root Roses

Bare root Roses can be planted this month, but make sure the ground is not frozen or waterlogged. If the roots are dry, soak them in water before planting and make sure to water them in once planted.

Festive wreaths & garlands

Gather foliage, berries, pine cones etc from the garden to make your own Christmas wreaths and garlands.

Mast year

It seems that 2022 is a ‘mast’ year as there has been a bumper harvest of acorns this year that can be seen amassed below trees. The term ‘mast’ refers to a year when certain trees such as Oak (Quercus) and Beech (Fagus) produce a particularly large crop of nuts. This normally occurs every few years with the following year producing a low harvest.

Common yew (Taxus baccata) Arils

The Common yew is a slow-growing, long-lived tree that is one of only 3 coniferous species native to the UK. Look out for its bright red, fleshy berries know as ‘arils’ that surround its poisonous seeds. These arils are the only edible part of this tree that contains poisonous toxins.

Common gorse (Ulex europaeus)

It is not uncommon to see the bright yellow, scented flowers of the Common gorse or Furze this month, a member of the Pea family (Fabaceae) and the most widespread of the species growing in the UK. It can be found on heathland, coastal areas, wasteland and along road verges.