Hooray for the lengthening day. Who knows there may even be a slight rise in temperature, maybe even a little consistency. My goodness the spiteful breeze stayed with us through March, sometimes hidden beneath the mask of each day, The glistening blade of treachery even on the sunniest days looking to spoil the fun. Not anything that troubled the early cherries though, which have been a delightful prelude to imminent Spring.

I did manage to get some seed going and my first tomatoes are well advanced. I do love to play, whilst still holding the reins of a commercial business, it is a delightful self-indulgence. I love experimenting with things that are off beat, growing plants in ways that are not prescribed. Now is the time for some organised commitment to seed sowing. The tenderest subjects will still need frost protection, but many things, both flower and vegetable can be sown in the coming weeks (just check the packets).

Seed Potatoes can be set out now, but keep an eye out for frost in early May which can nip the emerging tops. Just slip a bit of fleece across them if there is a threat. Garden Centres are starting to offer a range of young plants if the seed sowing isn’t your thing and there are also plenty of good herbaceous plants to be had. I picked up a few delphiniums to tuck in at the back of a border. I have selected a few tall ones that will rise majestically to five feet. I love the regal blue spires of this plant. If you are tight on space, then smaller forms are available, with some barely eighteen inches tall. I will also hope to plant my summer bulbs in the next week or so and my selection, will once more feature some Dahlias.

There is always plenty of repairing to do after the winter and most notably this time, it’s the lawn that needs serious work. Raking out the thatch and moss is a good starting point and then aerate the worst bits with a fork. Having highlighted the gaps in the grass, top dress with some new seed (April is the perfect month).

And finally, the Japanese flowering cherry season is about to start and if you have always fancied one this is the time to see what’s on offer. Every second garden will boast one.

Happy Gardening

Chris Evans
www.dundrynurseries.co.uk
www.thebutterflygarden.org