Gardening in lock down: West Sussex horticulturist shares her expertise

Gloria Robinson runs Tawny Nursery in Bell Lane, Birdham, and said gardening can be done by people of all skill levels and can be a valuable and rewarding way to spend your time.

What are the benefits of gardening?

Gloria said: "The main benefit I think is that it gets you outside getting your Vitamin D. It gets you some exercise and it's also good for the inner self and for your mental health. And, of course, for the environment.

"I enjoy the flowers and the sense of well being that you get from gardening - it's amazing."

How can I see results?

Gloria said: "There is not a better time for planting especially in these next few weeks.

"Soil temperatures will have risen.

"Light levels are high and the temperatures are warm."

For residents looking for vibrancy in the garden and 'lovely dramatic colour', Gloria recommends Geraniums, Marigolds, Salvia and Impatiens.

"They are great for hanging baskets or you could even have pots around the garden - they would look fabulous."

How can involve the little ones?

"If you wanted something for the children: lettuce, tomatoes, courgettes, chilli peppers and if you can get hold of seeds, radishes and carrot seeds are also good.

"They come up very quickly which is want.

"Another speedy grower is runner beans, keeping the children entertained as they race to grow the longest runner bean."

How can I attract wildlife?

"You'd want open flowers for the bees to get in. Butterflies also like Daisy shaped flower.

"Also things like Aphids help. If you don't spray your flowers and you just leave them the birds will come along and eat those as well as snails and things. While you don't want lots, some will attract birds."

Gloria recommends Foxgloves, Astemeria, Roses, Scabiosas, or anything with a daisy shaped flower.

What are your favourites?

"I like strawberries. In my garden my grandchildren think they are great to pick."

"I think bedding plants are great. I had them and they produced a really good flower all summer and they grow very quickly and, if you want to, at the end of the year you can plant some autumn plants - perfect for the novice."

Gloria's father, Derek Howell, 94, founded Tawny Nurseries back in 1977 and worked 7am to 9pm seven days a week. He is still working at the nurseries and spends his time potting plants, taking clippings and generally managing the site.

"He's loving it, but it does feel weird," she added.

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