EL Magazine JAN-FEB 2019

Winter Flowers
It might be cold but that doesn’t stop some of most beautiful
flowers from blooming. Snowdrops and primroses flower from late
January through to March, yet you may see them earlier or later.
Snowdrops are found in shaded, moist areas while you’ll usually find
primroses along the hedgerows. Snowdrops were once a treatment
for headaches and a compound in the bulb has been used in
dementia treatment. Do not try this at home because their bulbs
are toxic to humans. For information on when and how to plant
snowdrops or primroses. rhs.org.uk/advice
January/ February Jobs
Prepare and tidy the garden for spring – dig, clear, clean and plan.
Bulbs and wildlife will appear in February and you can even sow
some veg under cover. Continue winter pruning can but check
which plants and shrubs need this treatment before you start.
Vegetable of
the Edition
Beetroot is possibly one of the
healthiest veggies out there and it’s
in season! Chop, juice, make soup or
bake it for the benefits:
1. Nutrients – anthocyanins and
betacyanins may help to counter
the effects of pollution and free
radicals damaging your skin, as well
as protecting against some types of
cancer.
2. Immune system – beetroot fibre
can increase your white blood cells to
fight infection and disease.
3. Blood pressure – an average
beetroot contains 20 times more
dietary nitrates than any other
vegetable. The body converts this to
nitric oxide which improves blood
flow, reducing blood pressure and
protecting against osteoporosis.
4. Better blood flow – for better
stamina and oxygen uptake during
exercise as well as recovery.
5. Folic Acid – provides a natural
source of folic acid, which prevents
birth defects.
Easy to grow – sow from February
right up to July for a succession of
produce. They need well drained soil
and a bit of compost. Make sure you
thin them out and water well.
TOP TIP
Put feeders
out for the
birds
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