A stroke of good look
WINTER storms have brought snow, high winds and floods, yet February looks like being one of the warmest on record so it’s no wonder it feels like spring has arrived. But while it’s still too cold to sow spring and summer-flowering seeds outside – including vegetables – now’s the time to prepare for warmer days.
If there’s no snow or rain and the temperature is above 5C (41F) you can apply wood preserver or paint to wooden sheds, fences and outdoor furniture, although surfaces have to be clean and dry so it might be a job for a few weeks’ time.
Shed retailer Waltons has a maintenance guide on its website and suggests regularly inspecting fences and sheds for wear and tear, fixing holes straight away to prevent further damage.
And weatherproofing specialist Cuprinol has launched six new colours in its quick-drying Garden Shades collection: three Nature’s Neutrals including a cool blue neutral called Winters Well and three Nature’s Brights such as vibrant Emerald Stone green.
Cuprinol advises removing flaking paint back to the wood and sandpapering everywhere before applying wood stain or paint – and allowing this to dry before adding another coat.
Finally, Worcestershire-based paint brush and roller brand Harris recommends using a 9in roller or 5in decking brush to spread paint along the grain of the wood.
But if the weather’s not up to maintenance yet, perhaps invest in Anya Lautenbach’s new book The Money-Saving Gardener, or get yourself a gardening app, such as planting planner Fryd, for free advice.