For many years our shrubs and particularly roses have struggled to survive. As a ‘living memorial’ in memory of a loved one this is understandably upsetting.

There are a number of potential causes –

• Nearby large trees starving plants of both light and moisture.
• Insufficient resources for effective ongoing maintenance such as pruning, dead heading, spraying and feeding.
• The quantity of ashes scattered or interred in the flower beds over many years.

It has been scientifically proven that ashes (cremated remains) are actually harmful to plants. Excess Sodium results in a high alkaline pH level of 11-12, most plants need a pH of 5-7 for healthy growth.

Our trial will use a specifically created 100% organic soil mixture to reduce the Sodium and pH levels whilst releasing essential nutrients back into the soil.

We have selected 4 beds for the initial trial which will commence before the end of this year.

However, with nearly 60 beds in total, if the trial is successful, doing them all will take a considerable amount of time.

The soil in isolation won’t solve all the problems, so we will also be carrying out some crown raising on many of the trees to let more light and moisture into the worst areas.

Your patience is appreciated while we try and improve the overall appearance of our Gardens of Remembrance.