Garden Jobs for April

If you run gardening sessions with schools or groups, or are just looking for some ideas for home, we've put together some jobs for April which will help to get your garden off to a great start this growing season.

Plant new trees

Early April is really the last chance to get any new trees planted for this year. Trees can become stressed if planted when they are actively growing, so as buds and roots begin to spring into life we want to get any new trees into the ground or the pots they will be growing in. Now is a great time to think about any new hedges, fruit trees or bushes you would like to add to your garden this year.

Top tip - Many tree suppliers and nursery have a sale on trees at the end of the season! So you may well be able to pick up some bargains.

Lay mulch or soil conditioner

Before we start planting in the garden this year we want to make sure the soil has fully replenished all of it's nutrients from last years growing season. Dig in compost, leaf mould or some well-rotted manure into your vegetable beds and around the base of any  perennials. Make sure you keep the mulch clear of any new shoots coming through to avoid them becoming damp and rotting. The mulch will not only help your plants to grow stronger but also does a great job of suppressing weeds and retaining moisture!

Top tip - Local recycling centres often sell reasonably priced soil conditioner or compost made from recycled green waste, it's worth checking out what's available in your area. 

Clean Greenhouses and Polytunnels

The plastic and glass on greenhouses and polytunnels can often become dirty or green, limiting the light that can get into your growing space. Now is a great time to clean them up - before your plants get in the way! All you need is a bucket of warm water and you can get scrubbing with a soft cloth or sponge. Make sure not to use a scourer or wire brush as they can leave scratches on the glass. Not only will your growing space let in more light, your plants will also be less at risk from disease and pests that may have been lingering over the winter. Don't forget to clean both inside and out!

Top tip - drying the glass with a squeegee will help to avoid any watermarks appearing on the panes as they dry.

Start Seeds Indoors

Whilst it's still a little chilly for most seeds outdoors, on a sunny windowsill or inside a heated propagator there are lots of flowers and vegetables you can get started.
Fruit & Vegetables to sow in April: tomatoes, cucumbers, courgettes, pumpkins, beans, squash, onions, aubergines, leeks and lettuce.
Flowers to sow in April: sunflowers, cosmos, sweet peas, angelica and poppies.

In need of some new gardening tools for the coming year? Check out our range of reasonably priced equipment, specially designed for young gardeners here.

We'd love to hear what you're up to in the garden this month!
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