Spring has arrived, and the garden is awakening with new life. Let's dive into the tasks for this exciting month:
? Prune gooseberries and red and white currants. Begin by removing deadwood, then spur prune all side shoots back to 2-3 buds from the base. Finally, shorten branch tips by one quarter to encourage bushy growth.
? Plant shallot and onion sets in well-prepared soil. Ensure they are spaced appropriately and planted at the recommended depth.
? Harvest the last of the winter crops, enjoying the final flavours of the season. Compost any debris that is free from disease to enrich your compost pile.
? Sow aubergines, cucumbers, tomatoes, and chillies in an indoor heated propagator if you have a heated glasshouse for growing on seedlings. This provides them with the warmth they need for successful germination.
? Prepare garden beds for spring planting by removing weeds and adding compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil.
? Start sowing hardy annual flowers outdoors, such as sweet peas and calendula, for a burst of colour later in the season.
? Continue sowing cool-season crops like carrots, beets, and radishes directly into the ground.
? Keep an eye on the weather and protect vulnerable plants from late frosts by covering them with horticultural fleece or cloches.
? Take a moment to appreciate the new growth in the garden, the vibrant colours, and the fresh scents. It's a beautiful time to connect with nature. Remember, gardening is a journey, and each task we accomplish brings us closer to a bountiful and beautiful garden. Enjoy the process and the rewards it brings! ???
