The Grayshott Gardeners turned out in large numbers to listen to Roger Parsons talk on Sweet Peas on Wednesday 9th September.

Roger is extremely well qualified to lecture on the subject, since sweet peas have been his hobby for the last twenty five years, and his business since early retirement. He is the custodian of the National Collection of Lathyrus species and of the sweet pea variety seed bank. He is also a Trustee and Membership Secretary of the National Sweet Pea Society.

When asked what soil the members enjoyed, a dull murmur could be interpreted as an indication that the word 'soil' was an inaccurate description of the sand and rock at the members' disposal, however, we were pleased to note that sweet peas were not keen on chalk soils. It was also good news to know that deep digging was unnecessary. On our soils we should apply as much 'muck' as possible - his own sweet peas had a passion for that produced by horses. A good thick layer of mulch was also an advantage. For our soils, watering would be needed and probably a low-nitrogen liquid feed.

While sweet peas can be sown from September to March, the best time to sow is October when they should emerge in two weeks. There was no need to 'nick' or soak the seed, nor should the growing point be pinched out. The seedlings only need protection from wind and rain, preferably in a cold frame. Heat should be avoided, as the aim is to produce a stout seedling with a good root system. Sowing the seed in re-usable open-ended individual cells was ideal.

Various methods of training the plants were dealt with, but wigwams should be avoided as this obviously cramped the stems together at the apex. It was also good news that it was not necessary to remove flowers until they had finished flowering, neither was it necessary to remove tendrils.

Tips were given on how to win prizes at our next flower show, and slides were shown of a representative selection of the different colours and forms now available.

After the meeting there was a rush to buy seeds from the large selection from the 900 or so varieties grown on Roger's Sussex Nursery. We came away having enjoyed a memorable evening in the company of an excellent communicator.

The next meeting will be held on Wednesday 14 October, when Andy McIndoe of Hillier Nurseries will give a talk on Planting with Trees.

Further details can be obtained from the Membership Secretary Mrs Anne Waddell on O1428 604714.