OXFORD in Bloom judge John Alcock offers readers a few tips on how to make the best out of their gardens as the deadline for this year’s Oxford Mail-backed contest draws near. Mr Alcock, 65, of Littlemore, has been involved in Oxford in Bloom since it was launched in 1986, originally in his role at the time as Oxford City Council nursery manager and then as a judge. Schools entries close on Saturday and all other categories open until Sunday, July 10.

“It has been a difficult season to start with because it was so dry and only now are we beginning to get more rain.

“At this point of the year the main thing is making sure plants are well watered and deadheaded, and keeping the weeds down.

“We look for certain things when we inspect the gardens. Firstly, we look at the cleanliness and tidiness of the place.

“Secondly, we look for the choice and variety of plants, whether they have got the right plants and if they are planted in the right position.

“Finally we examine the design and look out for any special features like ponds.

“I like to see well-maintained lawns because the lawn helps set the flowers off.

“Keeping your lawns looking nice is fairly straightforward.

“You need to give them an occasional feed, and make sure they are well-spiked in the autumn so there is plenty of aeration going through the lawn.

“Obviously it needs to be mown and if you can, make sure the cut grass is picked up soon after you have done it because it’s not good for the lawn to leave the cuttings there.

“As well as the lawn, I like to see plenty of colour and variety in the plants, and I look out for people choosing colours that go together well.

“The best gardens will have plenty of variety, well-maintained lawns and just plenty of colour.

“What we want to see when we get out of the car is a garden that will just ‘whoosh’ at you and make a really strong first impression.

“From what I have seen so far, it looks like plenty of people are putting a lot of effort in.

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