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🌿 Recap: Galway Bay FM The Wagon Wheel with Valerie Hughes (Saturday, July 5th)

Ger McGaugh returned to The Wagon Wheel this past Saturday, July 5th, for his much-anticipated monthly gardening segment, and as always, he delivered plenty of practical, seasonal advice for gardeners across the country.

With gardens bursting into life thanks to warm temperatures and plenty of recent rainfall, Ger focused on how to feed, nourish, and protect your plants to keep them thriving through July and into autumn.

Here’s a full recap of what Ger covered on the show:

🌱 Lawns: Nourish Now for Autumn Strength

Ger opened by highlighting how important it is to feed your lawn at this time of year. With so much growth happening, lawns need a boost to stay green and healthy. He recommended using Lawn Gold or Mo Bacter, both of which will help strengthen grass roots and prepare the lawn for the challenges of late summer and autumn.

🍅 Tomatoes: Regular Feeding & Moisture Are Crucial

Whether you’re growing tomatoes under glass or outdoors, Ger stressed the importance of feeding them every week to ten days. Tomatoes are heavy feeders, and consistent moisture is just as important. Without regular watering, the fruit can split or develop issues like blossom end rot – so keep them moist and well-fed for a strong crop.

🌸 Window Boxes, Baskets & Containers: Don’t Let Them Suffer

With the wind battering many parts of the country recently, Ger reminded listeners that hanging baskets, window boxes, and planted containers need extra attention. These displays dry out quickly and lose nutrients fast. His advice:

• Water every second day

• Feed regularly with a good liquid feed. He made a special shoutout to Boost Plant Food.

• Deadhead flowers often to encourage more blooms

These small jobs make a big difference to keeping your displays colourful and healthy.

🌹 Roses: Feed and Fight Disease

Ger also focused on roses, which are at their peak now. He recommended applying a high-quality granular rose feed and continuing to spray for blackspot and other fungal issues. His tip of the day? Add garlic to your regular spray – it’s a natural deterrent for pests and disease, and it helps boost overall plant health.

🍏 Fruit Trees: A Great Year Ahead

Ger is optimistic about fruit trees this year, saying many are loaded with potential. To support that, he recommended feeding them with chicken manure, seaweed, or potash-based feeds – all of which help promote fruiting and overall tree strength.

💧 Hydrangeas: Feed Makes a Huge Difference

Hydrangeas got a lot of attention too. Ger advised using either a specialist hydrangea feed (liquid or granular) or general-purpose feeds like chicken manure or seaweed, as long as they’re high in potash. He pointed out that slow-release feeds are especially beneficial for hydrangeas.

Listener Valerie even rang in to say she’s seen a huge difference in her hydrangeas since she started feeding them regularly – a great example of how consistent care pays off.

🌻 Final Thoughts from Ger

Ger wrapped up the segment by reminding gardeners that feeding is essential during this time of high growth. It’s not just about keeping things looking good now – it’s about setting your garden up for continued success into autumn.

So whether it’s your lawn, tomatoes, baskets, roses, fruit trees, or hydrangeas – now’s the time to feed, water, and protect.

Listen back here. Tune in again next month when Ger McGaugh returns to The Wagon Wheel for more timely tips and advice from one of Ireland’s most trusted gardening voices.

Saturday, June 7th

Last Saturday, Ger joined us once again on The Wagon Wheel to share his expert gardening knowledge – and as always, he delivered a blooming brilliant session!

Listen back here:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/130BdE7eGzvAIYtlOhpmri6rQzXxqniSo/view?usp=sharing https://drive.google.com/file/d/130BdE7eGzvAIYtlOhpmri6rQzXxqniSo/view

With summer in full swing, there was huge interest from listeners looking to get their gardens into shape. Ger focused on a few key areas this week, starting with top tips for feeding your plants. Whether you're tending a few pots on the patio or managing a larger garden bed, proper feeding is essential. Ger recommended feeding potted plants regularly, as nutrients in containers are quickly used up. He also shared advice on choosing the right feed – liquid feeds for a quick boost, or slow-release pellets for longer-lasting nourishment.

A highlight of the show was a lively discussion about clematis climbers getting damaged in the storm– always a garden favourite this time of year. Ger explained about growing them on trellis and recommended a few hardy varieties that thrive in Irish conditions.

During Saturday’s show, Ger also tackled one of the most stubborn weeds gardeners face – horsetail. Also known as mare’s tail, this ancient plant is incredibly resilient and can be a real nuisance once it takes hold in your garden.

Ger explained that horsetail has deep, spreading roots (rhizomes) that make it difficult to control with regular weeding. Simply pulling it out usually won’t solve the problem, as it tends to regrow quickly. He advised against digging too much, as this can actually help it spread.

The phone lines were hopping throughout the show – we had so many questions and calls, we simply couldn't get through them all in the time we had. If you didn’t get a chance to have your question answered on air, don’t worry! You can always reach us directly at 📧 info@mcgaughs.com or 📞 091 755330 – we’re here to help with all your gardening queries.

Thanks to everyone who tuned in and contributed to the great atmosphere. Ger will be back soon with more seasonal tips – until then, happy gardening!

—
McGaugh’s Garden Centre Team
🌿 Your garden, our passion.

Grill Season Starts at McGaughs: Your One-Stop Shop for Weber BBQs in Galway & Mayo

As the days get longer and the evenings warmer, there’s no better time to fire up the grill—and no better place to find your perfect BBQ than at McGaughs. We’re proud to offer a wide selection of Weber BBQs, the gold standard in outdoor cooking, right here in Galway.

Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a weekend griller, Weber’s reputation for durability, performance, and innovative design makes it the go-to choice for backyard barbecues and family feasts. From compact charcoal grills for cosy patios to high-performance gas models built for entertaining, we’ve got something for every outdoor chef.

Why Buy Your Weber BBQ from McGaughs?

• Extensive Selection – Browse a full range of Weber models, including charcoal, gas, and pellet grills.

• Local Delivery Available – Don’t worry about getting it home. We’ll deliver your new BBQ right to your doorstep.

• Expert Advice – Our friendly, knowledgeable team is here to help you choose the right grill and accessories for your needs.

• Everything You Need – From grill covers to utensils, we’ve got all the extras to complete your setup.

Support Local, Grill Better

Shopping local means personalized service and the satisfaction of supporting your community. At McGaughs, we make your grill-buying experience easy, enjoyable, and tailored to you.

Ready to turn up the heat this season? Stop by McGaughs and check out our line up of Weber BBQs—or give us a call to arrange your local delivery today.

 Find Your Perfect Tree at McGaugh’s Gardening Complex

There’s nothing like the magic of a real Christmas tree to bring the festive spirit into your home. At McGaugh’s Gardening Complex, we’re proud to offer premium-quality Nordmann Fir trees, the perfect centrepiece for your holiday celebrations.

Our Nordmann Firs come in a variety of sizes, from 5ft to 12ft, ensuring we have the ideal tree to suit every home. Renowned for their non-shed needles, beautiful scent, and gorgeous symmetrical shape, these trees are a customer favourite year after year. Whether you’re decorating a cosyy living room or a grand space, our Nordmann Firs will bring festive cheer to your home.

Delivery Throughout Galway

Getting your tree has never been easier! We deliver throughout Galway, so you can choose your tree with ease and have it conveniently brought straight to your door.

Stands to Match Every Style

To complete your setup, don’t forget to check out our fabulous range of Christmas tree stands, including both functional and decorative designs. A sturdy, stylish stand is essential to ensure your tree stays secure and looks stunning all season long.

Tips for Keeping Your Tree Fresh and Vibrant

Want your tree to stay fresh and lush throughout the holiday season? Follow these simple tips:

1. Choose a Fresh Tree
   At McGaugh’s, our Nordmann Firs are freshly cut and of premium quality, giving you the best start to a long-lasting tree.

2. Trim the Trunk
   Before placing your tree in its stand, cut about half an inch off the base of the trunk. This opens up the pores and allows the tree to absorb water effectively.

3. Water Regularly
   Keep your tree stand filled with water at all times. A fresh-cut tree can absorb up to a gallon of water in the first 24 hours, so check the water level daily and replenish as needed.

4. Avoid Heat Sources
   Position your tree away from radiators, fireplaces, or direct sunlight. Excessive heat will dry out your tree, causing needles to drop prematurely.

5. Decorate Thoughtfully
   Use energy-efficient LED lights that emit less heat, reducing stress on the tree.

6. Mist the Branches
   If you’re keen to maintain that fresh forest scent, lightly mist the branches with water every few days.

Visit Us Today!

Get your holiday season off to a festive start with a stunning Nordmann Fir from McGaugh’s Gardening Complex. We’re here to help you find the perfect tree and ensure it stays fresh and beautiful throughout Christmas.

Come visit us today or call to arrange delivery anywhere in Galway.

How to Plant Tulip Bulbs for a Gorgeous Spring Display

Fall is the perfect time to start dreaming about the bursts of colour that spring will bring! Planting tulip bulbs now will reward you with beautiful blooms after winter, making your garden or patio come alive with vibrant reds, pinks, yellows, and more. Here’s a simple guide on how to plant tulip bulbs, along with a little info on the essentials you’ll find right here at McGaughs to kick-start your growing journey.

Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Tulip Bulbs

1. Choose Your Planting Spot
Tulips love well-drained soil and a sunny location where they can soak up the rays. Avoid any areas where water tends to pool, as tulips don’t do well with too much moisture.

2. Prepare the Soil
Great blooms start with healthy soil. We recommend using high-quality compost to enrich your soil and ensure your tulips have the nutrients they need to thrive. McGaughs offers a range of compost options perfect for bulb planting – our team can help you find the one that’s just right.

3. Dig the Holes
For best results, plant tulip bulbs about 15 cm (6 inches) deep and space them around 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) apart. The pointed end of the bulb should face up – this is where the stem will grow. Planting at this depth protects the bulbs from frost and gives them room to develop strong roots.

4. Add Compost and Water
Before covering the bulbs, add a bit of compost to each hole to give them a nutrient boost. Water well after planting to settle the soil around the bulbs, helping them start off strong.

5. Cover and Mulch
Cover the bulbs with soil and, if desired, add a layer of mulch. This helps insulate the bulbs and keeps the soil moist, which is especially useful if you’re planting a bit later in the season.

6. Sit Back and Wait for Spring!
Once they’re in the ground, tulips need very little attention over the winter. You can simply look forward to seeing their beautiful blooms in the spring.

Find Everything You Need at McGaughs

Getting started with tulips is simple, especially with the right supplies! At McGaughs, we have everything you need to make your gardening projects easy and enjoyable. From top-quality compost to pots in all shapes and sizes and durable tools, our store is stocked to support your planting from start to finish. Plus, our knowledgeable team is always here to offer advice, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started.

Stop by McGaughs to pick up your tulip bulbs and all the essentials you need to make your garden beautiful this spring. Happy planting!

Catch some great Autumn Gardening Tips!

Missed The Wagon Wheel last Saturday? Tune in to hear Ger’s expert advice on autumn gardening, with plenty of laughs, music, and handy tips to help you prep your garden for spring! 🌱

In this episode, Ger covered a range of seasonal gardening essentials to get your outdoor space ready for the colder months. He and Valerie discussed everything from tidying up fallen leaves to mulching and preparing your garden for the beautiful blooms of February, March, and April. Plus, he answered listeners’ questions live – with people texting and calling in to get Ger’s gardening wisdom.

Here are just a few highlights:

• Trimming Fruit Trees: Ger shared expert tips on pruning fruit trees to keep them healthy and fruitful.
• Lavender and Carnation Care: Learn how to give these delicate plants the care they need for autumn.
• Mulching: Ger talked about the benefits of mulching and even suggested using “chicken chit” to enrich your soil
• Planting Hedging in Autumn: Now’s the time to plant, and Ger explained why.
• Unusual Autumn Humidity: They also chatted about the unusually humid weather this season and how it’s impacting gardens.
• Tree for Life: A beautiful gift for life from McGaughs for Christmas.

Catch the full show for all of Ger’s autumn gardening tips, music, and great craic! Listen back here and join The Wagon Wheel crew for some seasonal garden inspiration.