BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine

Hello spring

Give your garden the ultimate seasonal refresh

-

With winter finally behind us, now’s the perfect time to get out and start enjoying your garden again. Of course, like our homes, our outdoor spaces often need a good spring clean to get them ready for the year ahead – and that’s where Dobbies can help. Read on to discover the team’s top tips for making the most out of your garden this season.

Tidying up

First off, you’ll want to neaten up your beds and borders by trimming plants, removing weeds and placing a thick layer of organic mulch over the soil. Not only will this improve the appearance of your garden, but the mulch will also break down into the soil, giving your plants a much-needed nutrient boost.

If you’re looking for tools to help you get started, Dobbies has a comprehens­ive range of garden trowels, shears, hoes and more, with prices starting from only £4.99. Just check which plants need pruning beforehand, so you don’t accidental­ly remove branches that could produce fresh blooms in summer.

Planting ahead

Though it’s wise to plan your planting for the year in spring, the best time to get growing will vary depending on the weather where you live. For instance, if you live in the south of England, you’ll probably be able to start planting earlier than those up north and in Scotland, as any tender summer bulbs should only be planted when all risk of frost has passed.

When you are ready to plant, you’ll find a wide variety of summer-flowering bulbs, corms and tubers at Dobbies. With single packs starting from just £4.99, or three packs for £12, you can choose from freesias, begonias, irises and even an exclusive pink and yellow dahlia, ‘Bright Eyes’. Alternativ­ely, if you’re looking to plant vegetables for summer, you could also pick up some of Dobbies’ grow-your-own seeds, such as spinach, basil, Chinese cabbage or spring onion, from just £1.99. Simply start them off in a greenhouse or on a windowsill indoors, before planting them outside in late spring. Want more bespoke advice? Dobbies also hosts free monthly Grow How sessions in-store, or you can pop in any time and speak to the plant and gardening experts.

 ?? ?? Prepare your garden for spring with Dobbies. Inset: A ‘Bright Eyes’ dahlia. Below: Discover a wide range of garden tools
Prepare your garden for spring with Dobbies. Inset: A ‘Bright Eyes’ dahlia. Below: Discover a wide range of garden tools
 ?? ??
 ?? ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United Kingdom