Flowers

If the ground has dried up after all the rain, dahlia tubers and gladiolus can be planted directly outdoors from the middle of the month.

Place support canes or hoops around perennials that are inclined to fall over in a windy spot. It is too early for planting bedding plants, but seeds of hardy annual flowers can still be sown.

Fruit, vegetables and herbs

The weather did not settle much and showers were frequent. However, the ground warms quickly when a few good days come along and most kinds can be sown.

Onion sets can be put in now too. Potatoes should be planted as soon as possible. Spray apple trees against scab disease as buds break, if they are susceptible.

Lawn

Grass growth has begun and if a lawn is not showing green by now, it needs some feeding. Mow regularly from now on.

Use lawn mosskiller if there is heavy moss growth and feed the grass. Sow lawn seed as soon as conditions are suitable. Old, thin lawns can be over-sown with some fresh seed on the patchy areas.

Trees, shrubs and roses

Bush roses and repeat-flowering climbers are growing strongly and should be sprayed against blackspot if they have no natural disease resistance.

Plant pot-grown evergreens and shrubs now. Water well until they are settled in. Control weeds and grass.

Greenhouse and house plants

Repot house plants that are pot-bound and growing poorly due to congestion. Heavily feed and water all greenhouse plants, if not already done.

Sow sweet corn and runner beans, also courgettes, pumpkins and squash, around the middle of the month to have plants ready for planting out at the end of May.

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