By Debby Looney, gardening expert

Living in Kerry is a real treat at this time of year when Magnolias shine.

There are so many beautiful specimens in gardens, and it is now they are spectacular. In February they are instantly recognisable by their large soft flower buds reaching up to the sky, but in March we are treated to an unsurpassed show!

Magnolia soulangeana will grow to quite a tree, but Magnolia stellata is suitable for smaller gardens. For a shady spot in your garden, possibly under a magnolia, I recommend Bergenias. These are evergreen, hardy, low-growing perennials, which are now flowering in many shades of pink. Pink Dragonfly, Bressingham white and Silberlicht are just a few of the many varieties available.

Lawn care really begins in March. If your lawn is looking thin, or has a lot of moss, you may need to remove old thatch and moss in order to re-seed. There are a lot of types of grass seed, that which is suitable for a shady garden, or “tough grass”, and even “smart seed”, which incorporates a water retaining gel. However, aeration and nutrients are the key to a healthy lawn. If reseeding, and especially when sowing a new lawn, consider mixing in an amount of white clover. Clover fixes nitrogen in the soil, eliminating the need for chemical fertilisers, as well as providing bees with a great source of nectar. White clover stays low, and will not ruin the look of your lawn. It is, in my opinion, definitely the way to go.

There are many types of fertilisers for sale, and I thought I would quickly go through a few of them today. Sequestered Iron, or Sulphate of Iron, is one which many people ask about. It helps ericaceous plants which are struggling to grow stronger and produce flowers. Apply in early spring.

Sulphate of Ammonia is a fast-acting nitrogen supplement, suitable for greening up plants.
Sulphate of Potash is high in potassium promoting flowers and fruit, as well as helping the plant to resist pests and diseases.

Superphosphate helps to ripen fruit, and can be applied throughout the summer.
Epsom salts are high in magnesium, which is needed for healthy foliage and is also very good for tomatoes.
Fish blood and bone is a general fertiliser, but is “natural” as opposed to chemical.
Bonemeal is also a natural product, and is excellent for root growth.

Garden lime is also an important additive, especially if you have very acidic soil. Slightly alkaline conditions are especially good for cabbage varieties, as it prevents clubroot.
As always, read the labels, and when you can use organic products.