News

European ministers have once again reached stalemate on whether to relicense the weed killer chemical glyphosate. Only 14 voted to approve the proposal that the licence be renewed for a further 5 years, 9 voted against and 5 abstained. It now goes to an appeal committee for consideration at the end of this month. Time is running out, as the licence ends in December.

What is Xylella? Is it a risk for British plants?

Xylella fastidiosa is a bacterium that lives in the plant’s ‘xylem’ (water channels). It causes disease by restricting or blocking the water and nourishment from travelling throughout the plant - thus causing the plant to rapidly wilt and die from lack of water. Variants of the bacterium have been detected as far apart as Brazil, the US, Italy and Germany. It could well be on its way to Britain.

The European Parliament called on Tuesday for weedkiller glyphosate to be phased out in the next five years, prompting the European Commission to drop its proposal for a 10 year licence extension.

We're delighted to announce our new course listing for 2018. Next year will see the introduction of brand new and exciting courses topics, including Organic Ornamentals and Creating a small organic garden, as well as a selection of evening courses.

Our courses prove to be very popular and spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended. You may want to consider booking one as a gift or Christmas present, ideal for that budding gardener in your life. Remember! Garden Organic members receive reduced prices for courses.