A Guide to a Flourishing Spring Garden

April is a fantastic time to get stuck into the garden. With longer days and milder temperatures, plants start to thrive, and there's plenty to do to keep your garden looking its best. Here are some essential gardening tips for April to help you make the most of the season.

1. Lawn Care

Begin mowing your lawn regularly, but keep the blades high to avoid stress on new growth.
Apply a spring lawn feed to encourage strong, green growth.
Reseed any bare patches and rake out moss and thatch to improve aeration.

2. Planting & Sowing

Directly sow hardy annuals such as poppies, cornflowers, and nigella for summer colour.
Plant potatoes, onions, and early-season vegetables like lettuce and spinach.
Pot up summer-flowering bulbs such as lilies and gladioli to ensure vibrant displays later in the year.

3. Weeding & Mulching

Keep on top of weeds before they take hold, especially in flower beds and vegetable patches.
Apply a layer of mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

4. Pruning & Maintenance

Prune early-flowering shrubs like forsythia and flowering currants once they’ve finished blooming.
Cut back dead growth on perennials and tidy up borders.
Support climbing plants and tie in new growth to trellises or supports.

5. Greenhouse & Indoor Plant Care

Open greenhouse vents on warm days to improve air circulation and prevent disease.
Start hardening off tender plants by gradually introducing them to outdoor conditions.
Keep an eye on houseplants, as they may require more frequent watering as temperatures rise.

6. Wildlife & Pollinator Support

Leave some wild areas in your garden to support bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Install a bird feeder or birdbath to encourage wildlife.
Plant nectar-rich flowers like lavender and foxgloves to attract beneficial insects.

7. Pest & Disease Prevention

Check for signs of slugs and snails and use organic deterrents where necessary.
Inspect roses for aphids and treat early to prevent infestations.
Remove any damaged or diseased leaves to prevent the spread of fungal infections.

Final Thoughts

April is an exciting time in the garden, with plants bursting into life and longer, warmer days ahead. By following these tips, you’ll set the foundation for a thriving and colourful garden throughout the year. So, grab your gloves and tools and enjoy the joys of spring gardening!

April Garden Tips