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This Month … In the Garden
APRIL
APRIL MEANS SPRING IS FINALLY UPON US , THE DAFFODILS AND CROCUSES BLOOM , AND THE GARDEN COMES ALIVE AGAIN . IT ’ S AN EXCITING TIME , WITH SOWING OUTDOORS IN FULL SWING AND OUR ATTENTION TURNING TO THE LAWN IN PREPARATION FOR SUMMER . DAN STEVES , SENIOR PLANT MANAGER AT MILLBROOK GARDEN CENTRES , SHARES HIS TOP TIPS FOR GARDENING IN APRIL .
APRIL ’ S TOP 5 TIPS :
Sow Hardy Annuals - Prepare the area before sowing on a dry day . Remove weeds and stones and break up any large chunks of soil to make it easier for seedlings to push through . Use a trowel to create shallow drills and water before sowing . Follow the instructions on the packet and either leave the seeds on the surface or lightly cover them with fine soil .
Protect Against Slugs - Slugs are often a problem in spring because there are many fresh new shoots for them to munch on . The best defence against slugs is to create a great ecosystem in your garden . Habitats for frogs , hedgehogs and berried plants to attract birds will all naturally help keep slug numbers down . Another top tip is to water in the morning so that it is not wet overnight around your plants … Slug heaven .
Lawn Care - April is a great month to spruce up your lawn . Take the time to remove moss and weeds and then apply a nitrogen-rich fertiliser to encourage strong spring growth . April is also a great month to lay turf if larger areas need covering . If you have smaller spots , sow seeds now , as the soil will warm up . Aerate your lawn using a garden fork and brush in some grit sand to improve the drainage ; this will help create a healthy root system which is the keystone of a happy lawn .
Aphid Watch - April is the first month aphids may start appearing as they need warmth to flourish . Small amounts of aphids are rarely a problem , providing vital food for many animals in your garden . Check your roses regularly and remove any build up around new growth by hand . Growing pungent plants such as garlic , onions and sage can also help to deter aphids naturally .
Save Water - Installing a water butt is a great way to save water . Rainwater is much better for your plants too ! Fix a water butt to all your downpipes to make the most of April showers . Slim-style ones can make the most of even small spaces in your garden . Help reduce water usage in your garden by using water-retaining crystals and planting drought-resistant plants such as agapanthus , geums , sedums and bearded iris .
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