April jobs in the garden

Springing into action!

And, just like that spring has sprung and we’re ready for action! All that preparation during the cooler months is starting to show as new shoots push through and flowers come into full bloom.

The sun is out which is starting to warm the soil in preparation for seeds that can be planted direct and we start to transfer those saplings into their new beds.

As the season turns it will be evident that some areas of the garden will need attention. Lawns may need a bit of extra care as they recuperate from the harsh winter, and as we take stock of the recent stormy weather, stakes and posts may need replacing.

Like a tightly coiled spring, the new season hits like a rocket and its time go, sow and grow.

Welcome spring – we’re so glad you’ve arrived!

It’s a go to sow!

• So many seeds to plant both direct in the ground and in the greenhouse, but let’s start with the directs! Peas, easy to grow and there is a wide variety to choose from. However, if you have hungry birds in the garden that pinch them before they have the chance to grow, start them off in the greenhouse.
• Plant second and main crop potatoes.
• Continue to plant onion, shallot and garlic sets.
• Quick to grow radish and turnips are great if you want to see quick results, or keep children interested in grow-your-own.
• Leeks and celeriac can be sowed as the soil warms.
• Plant fruit canes such as raspberries, blueberries and gooseberries and feed with Vitax Q4 for a slow release of nutrients.
• Root vegetables such as parsnips, carrots and leeks can now be sowed.
• Sow beetroots and spring onions.
• For less hardy crops, start them off in the greenhouse where they are protected from the elements. Sweetcorn, chillies and cucumbers can now be planted indoors.
• Plant tomato seeds and give them a headstart with Vitax Organic Tomato Food.
• Plant herbs and re-seed regularly for a continued source – ideal for spring salads!
• Plant strawberries in pots or hanging baskets. Check out the ‘Growing your own strawberries’ blog for some quick tips.

Beautiful blooms

• Sow sweet peas at the base of supports or plant out those started in the greenhouse over autumn and winter. To help roots establish, add Vitax Q4 Rootmore Mycorrhizal Fungi to the base of the planting area.
• Sow hardy annuals such as cosmos direct into the ground.
• Encourage young growers to plant sunflowers and see how tall they grow.
• Once the late frosts have passed, plant rhododendron bushes.
• Plant summer bedding in borders, pots and containers.
• Protect young saplings and slug favourites, hostas, by surrounding them with Slug Gone.
• Continue to deadhead winter and early spring flowers.
• Prune hydrangeas and early flowering shrubs, apply Vitax Hydrangea Feed to get the very best blooms.
• Check roses prone to disease and apply Organic Rose Guard to prevent powdery mildew and protect against aphids. Take a look at the ‘Getting the best from roses’ blog for some handy tips on growing roses.
• As the weather warms, start to water and feed houseplants more regularly. There are plenty of feeds to choose from including a multi-purpose feed and a range of specialist feeds depending on the houseplant. Visit the houseplant care range here.

Additional jobs!

• Lawns will need additional care to get them into tip top condition for summer. Take a look at the ‘How to restore a tired lawn’ blog for handy tips.
• Rake lawns to remove moss or use Vitax Moss Remover for a no rake solution.
• Spring is a good time to lay new turf or re-seed bare patches.
• Keep on top of weeds by removing little and often.
• Start spring cleaning the greenhouse. Use Vitax Summer Cloud Greenhouse Cleaner to remove algae and mould.

Spring is a time for new beginnings - new shoots, new blooms and new, vibrant colours bringing the garden to life. The pace will pick up over the next few months as the warm weather accelerates growth and crops start to mature. All you need to do is enjoy the ride!