APRIL in the garden

1. Tie in climbers

Before your climbers begin to grow too wildly, it is a good time to wrangle any loose shoots. Best done early and often!

  • Guide their future growth trajectory

  • Prevent damage to delicate climbers

  • Encourage better airflow and light exposure to improve health and flowering

Use soft, flexible ties to avoid damaging delicate stems. Loosely secure them to supports to allow room for growth.

2. Feed trees & shrubs

As the growing season begins it may be a good time to feed. Check for signs of nutrient deficiency. If the plant is otherwise healthy but flower/fruit/growth yield is low, consider feeding. Fruit, veg and containerised plants typically benefit the most.

3. House plants

With temperatures rising and plants putting on new growth, they may need an increase in water.

  • Water when the surface soil is dry

  • Do not use softened water

  • Allow tap water to sit for 24 hours (to dissipate chlorine and raise temperature)

  • Resist the temptation to water on a schedule – only water when necessary!

4. Weeding in borders & beds

In spring, weeds will begin to pop up through your borders and beds. It is important to keep them under control so they do not take over and compete with your other plants.

PRUNUS SPINOSA

Prunus spinosa is a hardy, native shrub or small tree that really comes into its own in early spring. Before the leaves appear, it’s covered in clouds of small white flowers, creating a fresh, bright look in the landscape.

VIBURNUM FARRERI

Viburnum farreri is a deciduous shrub known for its highly fragrant flowers that appear in late winter to early spring The pink buds open to creamy-white blooms, filling the garden with a gentle, sweet scent when most other plants are still dormant.

PRIMULA VULGARIS

Primula vulgaris, or the common primrose, is a charming perennial that brings bright, cheerful flowers in late winter and early spring.

Its delicate, pale yellow blooms sit above a rosette of fresh green leaves, adding a soft, natural touch to gardens and woodland edges.

Fritillaria meleagris

Fritillaria meleagris, or snake’s head fritillary, is a spring-flowering bulb with distinctive nodding, bell-shaped blooms patterned in a beautiful purple-and-lilac checkered design. Growing to around 20–30 cm tall, it has fine, grass-like leaves and a soft, meadowy look that suits naturalistic gardens. Native to European grasslands, it prefers moist soil and sun or light shade, and while it’s not flashy, it always stands out once you notice the detail.

PLANTS FOR WINTER INTEREST