Getting Ready for Spring in the Garden

Day by day, dawn is rising ever earlier and dusk descending a little later. Daylight hours are on the up and if you brave the elements and take a stroll around your garden, you will find that nature’s pioneers are already leading the way into spring. 

Snowdrops are blossoming, with many other bulbs sprouting their first green shoots above ground level, and many species of birds are flexing their vocal cords in anticipation of the season of regrowth and renewal. Time to dust down the tools and start readying your garden for its reawakening.

·         The lawn could do with a helping hand recovering from the rigours of winter. Clear the last of the leaves and debris and scarify the moss and algae that will have taken up residence during the last few months. Just use a rake and stiff bristled brush and avoid using any heavy machinery to do the job: it is quite likely that the ground is still water logged. It won’t be long before the grass starts growing again, so if you haven’t already done so, get your mower serviced.

·         Clear up winter detritus from the flower beds especially where bulbs are due to emerge, if they aren’t already doing so, and if you come across any perennials that have not survived the winter, dig them up. If you have any early flowering plants whose sap will already be rising, such as Clematis, that you forgot to cut back last year, give them a quick snip. Cut back any ornamental grasses and finish your winter pruning of deciduous trees and hedges.

·         Those of you with veggie patches should start to dig them over, and if you are a fan of organic fertilizers, take a leaf out of the farmers’ book and spread muck.

·         The coming few months are tough on wildlife. With energy reserves depleted by winter and natural food supplies yet to become plentiful, their instincts are already urging them to prepare for breeding. Birds are not only singing in the arrival of spring, but several of the early starters are starting to build their nests. Make sure they have access to fresh water, especially during any cold snaps, and plenty of food.

When all is done, sit snuggled in your Garden Escape, warming your hands on a nice hot cup of tea, watching the birds get busy, and planning your first visit to the garden centre to fill in the gaps left by winter. And remember….

HERE COMES THE SUN