Spring Bulb Planting

 On the 2nd October, we arranged to spend our first Saturday of the month event planting bulbs.  Areas at the side of the pathway into the Arno from Ingestre Road, as well as beside the entrance to the Quarry, had been cleared of weeds in preparation for planting.  Despite the weather being damp and dismal, many volunteers turned out at 10am with gloves and trowels to help get all the bulbs into the ground.

 There were 650 bulbs in total of five different varieties.  We arranged the bulbs first in random groups with the taller varieties at the back, smallest near to the front edges of the pathways.  It didn't take us long to plant them all. By 11.30 am all the work was finished and our Chairperson Annette Capper was ready in the shed with hot drinks and biscuits. All we need do now is wait for the Spring with a view to seeing all the delightful Spring flowers poking up through the ground.

Fingers crossed the local squirrels don't find them before they get a chance to grow!

First Saturday volunteering

This coming Saturday 7th August is when we generally meet to work in the Rose Garden.  You can join us in volunteering at 10am when we gather to see which jobs we can concentrate on.  At this time of year, we are mainly trying to keep all those flowers coming for as long as possible.  This means deadheading, both of roses and herbaceous perennials.

If you prefer, you could go litter picking, or weeding of shrub and rose beds.  We are a very friendly group, always pleased to welcome new volunteers. if you are unsure how to deadhead roses, there are plenty of us ready to give advice. 

After such a long time isolated because of Covid and the pandemic, this is the first time we have really been able to advertise our activities.  Gardening has been proven to have both physical and mental health benefits, especially when you can work as part of a volunteer group. Do as much or as little as you feel able. Every little bit counts!

We will be serving refreshments to anybody who comes to help.  If you missed our plant sale, we still have some plants which you will have an opportunity to purchase. They are a real bargain and all proceeds go towards increasing the range of plants we grow and replacing roses.

The first Saturday in each month is our regular gathering, weather permitting.  Even if it rains, you can still meet for a hot drink and a chat.  We look forward to getting to know new volunteers from our local community.  

How to correctly deadhead a rose bush.

 

Plant Sale

 

A Day in the life of the Arno

 This year, due to Covid restrictions,  we took part in the Virtual secret Gardens of Oxton event.  We created a short video showing how the Rose garden is well loved and well used within the community of the local area. Hope you enjoy watching.  

National Day of Reflection

 This Tuesday 23rd of March marks the anniversary of the first national lockdown.  The Royal Horticultural Society is partnering with Marie Curie to show support for this day of reflection.

We are still in a national lockdown and today marks the anniversary since the first lockdown.  It is a national day to reflect on all those who have died during the Covid 19 pandemic . As a nation, we have suffered a huge collective loss. Every death has been devastating for their relatives and friends left behind.  Many have been unable to say a proper final goodbye to their loved ones, or even to comfort each other with a hug.

Today, we are showing our support for all those bereaved during the pandemic.

The arrival of Spring always fills us with optimism for a brighter future, and no flower epitomises Spring more than the humble daffodil.  We all have room for some daffodils, even in a container or windowbox.

Take a walk down Duckpond Lane and see all the lovely daffodils planted near the trees, enjoy all the Spring flowers in the Rose Garden and stop for a sit on a bench.  Spare a moment or two to reflect on the last year and all those who have lost their lives during the pandemic.  Soon lockdown rules will end, and we will be able to meet our friends and families and look forward to making plans for the future, which can only be brighter.

Concerning news 2021

 

It has recently come to light that Wirral Borough Council is proposing to cease any maintenance of the Oxton Fields as part of its measures to reduce costs.  The Oxton Fields is only one of forty five suggested sites across the borough.

Suggestions for the fields have included re-wilding and further tree planting, as well as allotments.  This green space is crucial for both the physical and mental wellbeing of our local residents in Oxton and Prenton. This has been clearly evident during the Covid pandemic, as it is used daily by all age groups for their exercise during lockdowns.

As Friends of the Arno and Oxton Fields, we already have lines of communication with the Council department for parks and gardens.  We realise that some chages may be needed but assure you that we are here to protect our green space and will work towards a plan which will safeguard this area for our recreational use.

Councillors Stuart Kelly and Alan Brame are also ardent supporters and will be campaiging on our behalf within the Council.

You can support us by becoming a member and also volunteering with activities we organise. Becoming a paid member costs as little as 10p per week! £5 per year for a single member of £7.50 for a household per year.  Your membership fees and donations have already helped to fund so many projects. To join up, click on the tab for joining and follow the instructions.