SPRING IN THE GARDEN

The winter seemed to drag on this year and it still doesn't feel much like Spring some days, however the garden is beginning to show signs of colour and growth once more despite the cool temperatures.

 

SEASONAL TASKS

Prune early flowering shrubs like Forsythia, Flowering Currant (Ribes sanguineum) and Viburnum bodnantense once they finish flowering. This helps maintain shape and size and improves flowering for next year. Feed and mulch after pruning.

 

Feed acid loving plants like camelias, rhododendrons and azaleas. A liquid seaweed feed with added sequestered iron is ideal. If they are in containers gently remove the top 2-3 inches of soil and top up with ericaceous peat-free compost to give them a boost.

 

Spring is the time to plant or move evergreen shrubs. Water them well before moving/planting and once again to settle the soil around the roots once they are in position.

 

Put plant supports in place around the taller perennials before they really start to need them. It always looks more natural if they grow into/through their supports rather than trying to retro-fit them around floppy luxuriant growth.

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Spring is an optimistic season that brings new life to the garden and surrounding countryside. There is always lots to do but remember to take time to sit on a sunny bench with a cuppa to take it all in whenever you get the chance. 

 

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