Gardening in April can be a wonderful time, with the warmer weather allowing you to tackle a variety of tasks to get your outdoor space ready for the summer. As the seasons change, it’s essential to be proactive in maintaining and improving your garden. With the help of some expert advice, you can make the most of the April sunshine and ensure your garden is looking its best come summer.
Preparation is Key
- Check your rainwater collection system and guttering to ensure they’re in good condition
- Inspect your garden tools and repair or replace any that are damaged
- Clear paths and tidy beds to create a welcoming and safe environment
- Check fences and trellises for any damage or wear and tear
When it comes to gardening in April, there are many tasks to consider. By tackling these jobs, you can ensure your garden is well-maintained and ready for the warmer weather.
Lawncare and Pruning
No Mow May has been a popular campaign in recent years, encouraging people to leave their lawns uncut until May. While it’s true that this can be a great way to reduce maintenance, it’s not the best time to start cutting your lawn again. However, April is a great time to consider making the first cut, as the winter growth has likely made your lawn look overgrown. Michael, a gardening expert who shares his knowledge on TikTok, recommends cutting your lawn at a height of around 4cm. This will make your grass look instantly better and is a great starting point for the growing season.
Pruning Hydrangeas
If you have hydrangeas in your garden, April is a great time to prune them. However, it’s essential to do it correctly, as over-pruning can be detrimental to the plant. Michael recommends checking the type of hydrangea you have and pruning accordingly. “Pruning is a delicate art,” says Michael. “You need to make sure you’re pruning in the correct way for the type of hydrangea you have. It’s not just a matter of cutting back all the stems – you need to be mindful of the plant’s structure and growth habits.”
Garden Maintenance
In addition to lawncare and pruning, April is a great time to tackle other gardening tasks. These include:
- Aerating and scarifying the soil to improve drainage and aeration
- Dividing perennials to create new plants and fill borders
- Giving your garden a good mulch to suppress weeds and improve soil health
- Planting hardy annuals and sunflowers
These tasks will help you prepare the soil for the growing season and provide long-term benefits for your garden.
Protecting Your Plants
As the weather warms up, pests will start to appear more frequently. It’s essential to take steps to protect your plants from damage. Michael recommends using natural deterrents or physical barriers to protect your plants from slugs and snails. “If you have plants like delphinias, hostas, and lupins, make sure to protect their new shoots from slugs and snails,” says Michael. “You can use a physical barrier or natural deterrents like copper tape or crushed eggshells to keep them at bay.”
Planning and Designing
April is also a great time to enjoy your garden and plan your layout for the summer. Take the opportunity to make any adjustments to maximize space and colour during the summer blooming season. Consider the following tips:
- Make any necessary adjustments to your garden layout to ensure it’s functional and visually appealing
- Plan your colour scheme and plant selection to create a cohesive and attractive garden
- Consider the mature size of plants when selecting new additions
By taking the time to plan and design your garden, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that you’ll enjoy all summer long.
Conclusion
In conclusion, April is a great time to get your garden ready for the summer. By tackling the tasks outlined above, you can ensure your garden is well-maintained and ready for the warmer weather. Remember to take the time to plan and design your garden, and don’t forget to protect your plants from pests. With a little effort and attention to detail, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden that you’ll enjoy all summer long.
