The garden is moving fast now. This week is about building momentum — more sowings, getting beds ready, and keeping on top of early weeds before they take over.
Week Spring Jobs:: Seeds to Sow This Week
- Herbs — basil, coriander, dill, and parsley can all be started indoors now. Basil needs warmth (18°C+) — a kitchen windowsill is perfect.
- Summer brassicas — calabrese, Brussels sprouts, and kale. Sow in modules for transplanting in 4-5 weeks.
- Salad onions (spring onions) — White Lisbon is the most reliable variety. Direct sow or in modules.
- Peas — start in guttering or deep modules. Damage-free transplanting is the key to success.
Jobs to Do This Week
- Prune roses now — remove dead wood, crossing stems, and prune to an outward-facing bud. Feed with rose fertiliser after.
- Divide overgrown clumps of perennials like hostas, asters, and sedums before they leaf up fully
- Prepare vegetable beds — add compost or well-rotted manure, then cover with cardboard to warm the soil
- Force rhubarb for an early harvest — cover with a forcing jar or upside-down bucket
- Clean out the greenhouse if you haven’t yet — wash glass to let in maximum light
What to Watch For
Early aphid colonies are starting on fruit trees. Check the leaders and young shoots regularly. Squash any you find immediately before they build up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I prune clematis now?
It depends on the group. Group 2 (large-flowered, rebloomers) — light prune after first flush. Group 3 (flowering from midsummer) — hard prune to 30cm now.
Can I plant strawberries yet?
In mild areas or under cover, yes. Otherwise wait until April. Buy cold-stored runners for the earliest crops.
Is March too early for tomatoes?
Unless you have heat and light, yes. April is the safer start for most UK growers.
What You Need This Week
- Herb seeds — basil, parsley, coriander for early indoor sowing
- Modular trays — for sowing in cells
- Root trainers — for sweet peas and beans
- Blood fish and bone — general fertiliser for beds and borders
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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- Complete Guide to Week 9 Spring Garden Jobs: April 26 – May 2
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.
