All frost risk should now be behind us in virtually all of the UK. This is the green light to plant out everything that has been waiting — tender herbs, outdoor cucumbers, the last of the tender vegetables.
Week Spring Jobs:: Seeds to Sow This Week
- Last chance for outdoor tomatoes — if growing outdoors, they must be planted now. Use a sheltered sunny spot against a south-facing wall.
- Dwarf beans — final outdoor sowing for beans through summer
- Courgettes — one last sowing for late-cropping
- Salads continue — little and often remains the rule
Jobs to Do This Week
- Plant out all remaining tender plants — basil, outdoor cucumbers, squash, pumpkins. They are safe now.
- Start harvesting — early salad leaves should be ready. Cut-and-come-again lettuce, radishes, and spring onions are the first rewards.
- Feed fruiting plants — tomatoes, courgettes, and beans all need high-potash feed now they are setting fruit
- Earth up potatoes — keep drawing soil up around stems as they grow
- Deadhead spring flowers — tulips, daffodils, and wallflowers should be deadheaded to encourage strong bulbs for next year
What to Watch For
Greenhouse pests — watch for red spider mite, whitefly, and aphids under glass. Check plants regularly, especially underneath leaves.
What You Need This Week
- Bean supports — for runner beans and peas
- Fruit feeder — high potash feed for fruiting plants
- Watering system — drip irrigation for containers
- Compost accelerator — to speed up compost making
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to do this?
The ideal time depends on your climate and the specific plants involved. Generally, early morning or late afternoon are best to avoid the heat of the day.
How often should I check on this?
Check your garden at least once a week during the growing season to catch any issues early and keep on top of tasks.
Can I do this in a container instead?
Many garden tasks can be adapted for containers. Use a good quality potting compost and ensure containers have adequate drainage holes.
What if I don’t have the right tools?
Start with the basics — a trowel, fork, gloves, and watering can will get you a long way. Add tools as you need them.
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