Spring is in the air, and March and April are crucial months for getting your garden ready for the warmer months ahead. The soil starts to warm, the days get longer, and your garden begins to wake up from its winter slumber. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just getting started, these are the essential jobs to do in your UK garden in March and April to ensure your outdoor space thrives.
March Gardening Jobs
As the weather starts to improve, March is the perfect time to kickstart your gardening efforts. Here’s what you should focus on:
1. Prepare the Soil
Before you start planting, it’s important to prepare your garden beds. Clear away any debris or weeds that have accumulated over winter. Turn the soil with a fork or spade to help aerate it and allow it to drain more easily. If the soil is still too wet, wait for it to dry out a bit to avoid compacting it.
2. Plant Early Crops
If you’ve been planning to grow vegetables, now is the time to plant certain hardy crops. You can sow seeds of peas, broad beans, carrots, and early potatoes directly into the soil. March is also a great time to start hardy herbs like parsley and chives. If you want to get a head start, sow seeds indoors for later planting in the spring.
3. Prune and Trim Shrubs
March is a good time to prune your deciduous shrubs and trees before they begin their new growth. Focus on cutting back any dead or damaged stems, as well as any overcrowded branches. For roses, cut back dead or weak growth and trim them to encourage healthy new shoots.
4. Start Planting Summer Bulbs
If you’re looking to add a splash of colour to your garden, start planting summer bulbs such as lilies, gladiolus, and dahlias. Planting them in March will allow them to establish roots before the warmer months arrive.
5. Clean and Repair Garden Tools
Winter can be tough on your garden tools, so take some time in March to clean, sharpen, and repair them. A well-maintained set of tools will make your gardening tasks much easier throughout the rest of the year.
April Gardening Jobs
April is when your garden really starts to come to life. The days are longer, and the weather is more consistent, making it the perfect time to get planting and tidy up your outdoor space. Here’s what to focus on in April:
1. Planting Flowers and Vegetables
April is a key planting month for both flowers and vegetables. You can now plant a variety of flowers, including pansies, primroses, and tulips. It’s also the time to plant vegetable seeds like lettuce, radishes, and spinach directly in the ground, as well as transplant seedlings you’ve started indoors, such as tomatoes and peppers. Make sure to keep an eye on the weather, as late frosts can still be a risk.
2. Feed and Mulch Your Lawn
Your lawn will be starting to grow again, so now is the time to give it a boost. Apply a spring lawn feed to encourage strong growth, and consider using a lawn mower on its highest setting to trim any long grass. Mulching your lawn will help keep it healthy, and it can help reduce weed growth by smothering seeds.
3. Tidy Up Your Borders
April is the time to start getting your flower beds and borders in order. Remove any dead foliage from perennials, rake up fallen leaves, and trim back any winter-damaged stems. Adding a fresh layer of mulch will not only give your garden beds a tidy look, but it will also help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
4. Start Pruning Fruit Trees and Bushes
If you have fruit trees or berry bushes, now is the time to prune them to encourage a good crop later in the year. For apple and pear trees, prune dead or crossing branches, and for berry bushes like raspberries, trim back any old growth to make room for new shoots.
5. Support Growing Plants
As your plants begin to grow in earnest, make sure to give them the support they need. Install plant supports, such as stakes or cages, for tall-growing plants like tomatoes, peas, and sweet peas. Early staking can help prevent damage later on as plants begin to grow stronger.
6. Keep an Eye on Pests
Although pests aren’t as prevalent in early spring, it’s always good to start checking for early signs of trouble. Keep an eye on your plants for aphids, slugs, and snails, and take action if necessary using organic pest control methods.
General Tips for March and April
- Check for Frosts: Late frosts can still be a risk in March and early April. Be prepared to cover tender plants with fleece or cloches during cold nights.
- Water Wisely: As the weather warms, it’s important to ensure your plants are getting the right amount of water. Water early in the morning or in the evening to avoid evaporation during the heat of the day.
- Compost: Keep adding your garden waste to the compost bin. By the end of April, you’ll have a lovely, rich compost ready to feed your plants later in the year.
Conclusion
March and April are incredibly busy months in the UK garden. It’s all about preparation, planting, and keeping your garden tidy. By following these essential jobs, you’ll ensure that your garden thrives throughout the spring and summer, providing you with a beautiful, vibrant outdoor space to enjoy. So, grab your gardening gloves, roll up your sleeves, and get to work — your garden is waiting!