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Climatic Conditions

The climate of the Lake District is immensely varied, ranging from fairly dry and sunny along the western coast to extremely wet and dull in the central fells. The climate of Holehird lies somewhere between the two with a rainfall in the region of 1500mm per year, the major part falling during the winter months.

The months of April, May and June are usually dry and sunny. Late August and September are often very wet and dull which curtails the growing season. In midwinter the lack of sun due to short days is compounded by the predominance of dull overcast skies. Growing plants under glass at this time of year makes great demands on the gardener's skill. Winters are usually mild and snow seldom lies for long periods, which enables us to succeed with many plants usually considered tender. The Lakeland Horticultural Society has recently installed an automatic weather station which records the main climatic factors recognised as affecting plant growth. In the future we shall be able to explain the performance of plants in certain years, for example, why daffodils and rhododendrons should flower so profusely in some years. A summary of each month's readings is displayed under the pergola outside Reception.

Soil Conditions

Holehird soils tend to be naturally thin but well drained, and can require a considerable amount of irrigation during spring and early summer. The pH is around 6.6 which enables us to grow acid loving plants and can be modified easily by liming to suit lime lovers.

In the Walled Garden a century of cultivation has produced a deep rich soil which is reflected in the growth of a wide range of plants there.