If well managed you can have a clematis blooming each month of the year but the rule of thumb is "give it a good haircut" each time after flowering. The most successful, or perhaps a thug to some, is the Montana which flowers on the previous season's ripened shoots and is most useful to cover a shed or a wall. The doubles when pruned could produce a second flowering but only of single blooms.

The excellent plants brought for sale had already been cut three times - so be of brave heart!

The half-day outings planned for this year have proved very successful and have been fully booked. However there are still places available for the Autumn outing to Kew.

We were reminded that next month is the annual Flower Show and the show secretary was asking for those who could help with the setting up and other duties - also asking for cakes for the refreshments. If you have not already offered please contact him on 844104.

Otherwise let's see a bumper show - in spite of the unseasonal weather!