Spring starts now — even if it doesn’t feel like it outside. This is the week to get your seeds ordered, your tools cleaned, and your first sowings started indoors. The garden is waking up.
Week Spring Jobs:: Seeds to Sow This Week
Inside on a sunny windowsill or heated propagator:
- Broad beans — Aquadulce Claudia is the best variety for early sowing. Sow in root trainers or deep modules. They’ll be ready to plant out in 6 weeks.
- Sweet peas — the earlier the better for long stems and big flowers. Sow in deep pots — sweet peas hate cramped roots.
- Leeks and onions — if you didn’t sow in January, do it now. They’ll catch up quickly under lights.
- Salad leaves — cut-and-come-again mixes can be sown every 2 weeks for constant supply.
Jobs to Do This Week
- Cut back winter foliage on ornamental grasses before new growth appears
- Mulch around the base of fruit trees and bushes while soil is moist
- Clean and sharpen your secateurs and pruning saw
- Check stored dahlia tubers — discard any that are soft or mouldy
- Turn your compost heap if it hasn’t been touched since winter
What to Watch For
Slugs are already active in mild areas. Protect young seedlings with copper tape around pots or nematode treatments on beds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it too early to sow tomatoes?
Yes — unless you have a heated greenhouse, wait until March/April. Too early and they’ll suffer from cold and low light.
Can I start preparing beds now?
Yes — as soon as the soil is workable (not waterlogged). Lightly fork over beds and add compost. Don’t dig if soil is frozen.
What can I plant out this week?
In mild areas: winter brassicas, garlic, and autumn-sown onions. In cold areas, wait another 2-3 weeks.
What You Need This Week
- Seed trays — for early sowings indoors
- Seed compost — fine grade for best germination
- Garden fork — for preparing beds
- Broad bean seeds — Aquadulce Claudia for early sowing
Related Articles
For more help with your garden, check out these related guides:
- Early Spring Garden Prep: What to Do in March
- Beginner’s Guide to Growing Sweet Peas
- Best Plants for Pollinators
- Herb Garden Hub
- How to Build a Raised Bed
Continue Reading
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to do this?
The best time depends on your climate zone and what you are growing, but generally early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler works best for most garden tasks.
How often should I check on my garden?
Regular attention is key — check your garden every few days during the growing season. This helps you catch problems early before they become serious.
Can beginners do this?
Absolutely! Start with a few simple tasks and build up gradually. Most garden jobs are beginner-friendly with the right guidance.
What is the most important thing to remember?
Consistency matters more than perfection. Little and often beats occasional marathon sessions. Even 10-15 minutes of daily attention yields great results.
