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Late February sees the start of
our yearly horticultural cycle when the first seedlings that need
most time to develop begin to make their appearance. From then on,
our polytunnels gradually fill up as the seedlings are pricked out
into boxes and other tiny plug plants arrive from growers. Timing is
all important, for plants must be given time to mature, but taken
to chosen sites before they have become too soft to withstand the
change to harsher conditions outdoors.
 In May around 100 hanging
baskets are made up and hang in these sheltered conditions for
several weeks. This is our busiest time, for as well as hanging
baskets, window boxes, tubs and containers must be bedded out as
soon as the danger of frost has passed. Thereafter, volunteer waterers in teams of two, do sterling work tending the needs of
displays by tractor and trailer. To keep plants in peak condition,
this daily task, which can take nearly two hours, must be carried
out from June until mid September, while many residents also tend
displays around their homes. Local gardens and house fronts always
reflect the great effort expended by residents and business owners
and their industry and interest is always recognised when we present
our Community Awards as the season draws to a close.
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In 2003 after our first participation in Britain in Bloom, we
received a Silver Award while the Royal Horticultural judges also
saw fit to award Falkland the Discretionary Award for Horticultural
Excellence. Despite our expertise with flowers, however, hugely
important is our need to ensure that colourful floral displays,
however attractive, do not detract from the interesting architecture
and natural appeal of our village. As a result we work hard at
maintaining an acceptable balance in the number of displays and the
co-ordination of the colours on show.
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