A proper spring week — longer days, warmer soil, and the garden responding fast. This is the week where you can start planting out hardened-off plants, as long as you are prepared to cover them if frost threatens.
Week Spring Jobs:: Seeds to Sow This Week
- Dwarf French beans — direct sow in modules for transplanting, or wait another week for direct sowing outdoors
- Sunflowers — in 9cm pots indoors. Russian Giant is spectacular for kids.
- Marigolds (Calendula) — great companion plants for vegetables, easy from seed
- More salad leaves — successional sowings every 2 weeks keep the supply going
Jobs to Do This Week
- Harden off plants properly — 7-10 days of gradually increasing outdoor time before planting out
- Plant out early brassicas — kalettes, Brussels sprouts, and kale should be going in now in mild areas
- Mulch around the base of soft fruit bushes — to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Install supports for climbing beans and peas — bamboo canes, netting, or hazel wigwams
- Cut back early-flowering shrubs like forsythia after flowering
What to Watch For
Vine weevil adults emerge from April onwards. Check containers for crescent-shaped notches in leaves. Apply nematodes to containers in April/May to control larvae.
What You Need This Week
- Garden kneelers — kneeling pad for comfort during spring planting
- Weed barrier fabric — for suppressing weeds in beds
- Organic fertiliser — blood fish and bone or seaweed meal
- Bamboo canes — for bean and pea supports
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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