Gardener's tips
Looking after more than 200 gardens has taught us a thing or two, so here our gardeners share some of their tips for a blooming beautiful garden
1. Clear borders and beds
The first job is to weed the beds, then you can refresh the soil by digging in a 5cm layer of compost or manure. You can also add mulch to keep the weeds down.
2. Tidy up perennial plants
If your perennials are getting unruly, just lift the plant with a garden fork, divide into chunks and then re-plant separately. Make sure to water them in well.
3. Get planting
Aim to get bare-rooted plants like soft fruits, roses and shrubs planted out before St Patrick’s Day (17 March). Mid-April is the time to sow vegetable seeds.
4. Look after your spring bulbs
Remove flower heads as they fade, but leave the foliage to die back. You can then leave the bulbs in the ground, or lift them and store in a cool, dry place.
5. Mow the lawn
Get the mower blades sharpened before the first cut, and use a high setting for the first few weeks until the grass is stronger. Use a lawn feed if needed.
