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April is a great time for getting out in the garden and enjoying the beauty of spring. With the weather improving there are plenty of jobs to be done and plenty of enjoyment to be had in preparation for the summer months.
What to plant:
- Begonia tubers
- Dahlia tubers
- Calla Lilies
- Gladioli
- Crocosmia
- Other summer-flowering bulbs & tubers
- Tomatoes
- Chives
- Second-early potatoes
- Raspberry canes
- Blackberry canes
- Pot-grown fruit trees & bushes
- Strawberry plants
What to order:
- Summer-flowering bedding plug plants
- Garden ready plants
- Perennials
- Fruit & veg canes and plants
- Shrubs & roses
- Pre-planted hanging baskets
Get set for summer
Now would be a great time to think about your summer garden. There are still a few months left of spring, but it won't be long until the weather improves, in theory. Add some seating areas and get your summer garden furniture now and you'll be immediately prepared to take advantage of any sunshine we get.
Control Pests
The first green shoots of new growth are very susceptible to damage from slugs and snails. Container grown plants can be protected by copper rings around pots. Slug pellet application is always effective; however, a gravel barrier/border can also be a natural deterrent. Weeds will also become an increasing problem with the weather improvements so keep those under control.
Tidy up
The weather will begin to improve and provide a suitable climate for preparations for summer-flowering bulbs and the ideal platform for tidying up your borders/shrubs after the long winter. Deadhead spring bedding plants and remove tired winter bedding. Prune shrubs and hedges now before the birds begin to nest to encourage healthy new growth. All deciduous shrubs need pruning as soon as they have flowered.
Get your trellis prepared for climbing plants
Now is the time to put up your trellises in preparation for your existing or planned climbing plants. Soon your Clematis or Honeysuckle will burst into life and will demand climbing assistance.
Top Tips:
- If the weather forecast looks chilly, keep your bulbs inside until it perks up a bit.
- Shrubs and spring-flowering bulbs will appreciate a bit of feeding at this time of year in preparation for the growing season.