Spring is just around the corner, which means it’s time to get your garden ready for the growing season.
By tackling a few simple jobs now, you can give your plants the best possible start and make the most of the warmer months ahead.
1. Start with a garden clear-up
Clear up fallen leaves, dead plants and any winter debris.
A clean garden will allow new growth to flourish and create a healthier space for plants.
2. Refresh and enrich your soil
Use a garden fork to gently loosen the soil in beds and borders, improving drainage and air circulation.
Add compost, manure or leaf mould to enrich the soil and provide nutrients.
This gives your plants a solid foundation and promotes healthy growth throughout the season.
3. Tackle Spring pruning
Cut back dead stems from perennials and remove damaged branches from trees and shrubs.
Avoid pruning spring-flowering plants until after they’ve bloomed to avoid cutting off next season’s flowers.
4. Give your lawn some attention
Rake away moss and excess thatch, reseed bare patches and aerate compacted soil with a fork.
Apply a spring feed to give the grass a boost.
Once the grass begins growing, start mowing again to maintain a healthy, green lawn.
5. Choose what to plant
Consider what flowers, vegetables or herbs you’d like to grow and where they will go.
Planning helps you avoid overcrowding and makes crop rotation easier if you grow vegetables.
6. Start seeds indoors or under cover
Sow seeds indoors on a windowsill or in a greenhouse for plants like tomatoes, sweet peas and broccoli.
This gives them a head start before you plant them outside, ensuring stronger plants once the weather warms up.
7. Inspect and repair garden structures
Inspect structures like fences, trellises and greenhouses for damage.
Repair anything that needs fixing and clean greenhouse glass to maximise light.
If you have a polytunnel greenhouse, check its frame and cover for wear and tear from winter weather.
8. Create a haven for wildlife
Clean feeders, provide food and water for birds and plant nectar-rich flowers for pollinators.
Small actions like these make your garden a welcoming space for wildlife and help support biodiversity.
9. Clean and maintain garden tools
Before the busy gardening season begins, give your tools some attention.
Clean off any dried soil and remove rust with a wire brush. It’s also worth checking your lawnmower now so it’s ready when the grass starts growing.
Preparing your garden for spring doesn’t have to be complicated.
By following these tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy a beautiful, productive garden throughout the warmer months. Happy gardening!
