Topsham Allotments and Gardens Society
Topsham Allotments and Gardens Society
Welcome to the website of Topsham Allotments and Gardens Society (TAGS).
We celebrated our 50th anniversary as society in 2017 and today we are a thriving group of more than 150 members who live mostly in Topsham or the surrounding area.
Our common interest is in gardens and gardening. While most members have gardens of all sizes or allotments or, indeed, both, membership is open to all with this interest. So, if you share this love of growing things, have a look at the benefits of TAGS Membership by clicking on the button below.
Flower of the Month - March
In flower now is heather, so that is my choice for flower of the month. This comes in many shades of pink, purple and white and can flower through until early June.
Heather’s official name is Erica, while the heath or heather of the heathlands and our lovely moors is Calluna Vulgaris. This name comes originally from the Greek name for sweeping. Both are part of the Ericaceae family which also includes Rhododendrons and Blueberries. Ericas tend to flower in the winter and spring while Callunas tend to flower in late summer to autumn.
Heather prefers an acid soil but defies that rule by thriving in many gardens in Topsham where the soil is often sandy.
Once you have a mature plant, heather takes little looking after, but must be cut back after flowering each year as otherwise it becomes woody and flowers will be sparse.
Also in early March enjoy the many spring bulbs and make a note of where you would like some more or different ones to flower next Spring, as the bulbs will need to go into the beds this coming Autumn in order to perform in Spring 2027
Don’t forget to check our website for the monthly gardening tips, (topshamags.co.uk/estuary-articles/) and other information about our activities.
Sue Parr, Garden Rep.
Details of what is involved are available and getting more involved with TAGS is a great way to widen your circle of friends and get involved in the community.
HELP WITH OUR MEMBERS OPEN GARDEN SCHEME
Also, as our activities continue to grow and improve, we are looking for a 3rd Garden Rep whose sole Job would be to organise 3-4 open gardens for each Spring and Summer for TAGS members only. You would liaise with our Social Sec's Stella and David and garden owners to help organise visits to their gardens, help provide and drink tea on the day and ensure things go smoothly!! For more info give Stella and David a call on 01392 877318. This may also involve biscuits!!
