Can I Sow Sweet Peas in November?

You can — and quite a few old hands will tell you it’s the best time. November sowings give you sturdy little plants that sit quietly through winter, then explode into growth the moment spring remembers what it’s doing.

1. Five seeds into a litre pot.
Nothing fancy — just a decent peat-free compost. I push five seeds in around the edge of a one-litre pot. They seem to enjoy each other’s company, like a little sweet pea committee deciding how they’ll take over the world next summer.

2. Give them warmth to germinate.
Pop the pot somewhere cosy — under the bed, the corner of the kitchen, anywhere that stays a touch warmer than outside might be...they need about 15 degrees to get themselves in order. 

3. Move them to the cool the moment they’re up.
Once they’ve germinated and are showing an inch or so of growth, shift the pot to an unheated greenhouse or a sheltered spot outside. This cool, bright environment stops them turning into leggy spaghetti and makes them tough as old boots by spring. It's important not to leave them in the warm too long...ignore this at your peril.

They’ll sit there quite happily through winter looking like you’ve paused them mid-sentence. Come March, they’ll surge away and reward you with flowers earlier and in greater abundance than spring-sown cousins.

If you’ve never done a November sowing, give it a whirl. It’s one of gardening’s great confidence-builders.

The History and Joy of Christmas Wreaths: A Timeless Tradition

There’s something undeniably magical about the sight of a Christmas wreath hanging proudly on a door. These festive creations are more than just decorations – they’re steeped in history and symbolism, carrying messages of welcome, hope, and celebration. And in recent years, the art of making your own Christmas wreath has become a beloved tradition, allowing people to express their creativity and add a personal touch to their holiday décor.

Let’s explore the fascinating history of Christmas wreaths and why crafting one yourself is such a delightful and meaningful activity.

The Origins of the Christmas Wreath

Wreaths have been around for centuries, long before they became a Christmas tradition. Their origins can be traced back to ancient Rome, where they were made from laurel leaves and worn as crowns to symbolise victory and honour. Over time, wreaths evolved into decorative items, often associated with celebrations and rituals.

In the colder regions of Europe, evergreen wreaths gained popularity during the winter months. These circular arrangements symbolised the cycle of life and nature’s ability to endure through the darkest days of the year. The addition of candles and festive colours made them a natural fit for Christmas celebrations, which often coincided with ancient winter solstice festivals.

By the 16th century, the Advent wreath had emerged as a Christian tradition in Germany. These wreaths, adorned with candles, represented the light of Christ coming into the world. Over time, the decorative Christmas wreath we know today evolved, blending religious symbolism with festive cheer.

The Symbolism of Christmas Wreaths

The Christmas wreath is packed with meaning:

• The Circular Shape: The unbroken circle symbolises eternity, unity, and the never-ending cycle of life.
• Evergreens: The use of pine, holly, and ivy reflects resilience and the promise of life, even in the depths of winter.
• Red and Gold Accents: Traditionally, these represent the blood of Christ and the light of the divine, though today they’re simply seen as festive and joyful.

Each element of a wreath tells a story, making it a beautiful way to celebrate the season.