Springtime Landscaping

The days are getting longer, and the weather is warming up. It’s time to start thinking about getting your garden ready for the vibrant spring and summer months ahead. Preparing your garden for the seasons can enhance your outdoor space. This makes it the perfect place to relax. You can entertain and enjoy nature there.

Here are some practical and easy-to-follow tips to help you prepare your garden for the warmer months:

Before you dive into planting and landscaping, give your garden a good spring clean. Over the winter, your garden has accumulated dead leaves, twigs, and other debris. These can smother your plants and create a breeding ground for pests.

• Rake up old leaves, twigs, and dead plants from garden beds and lawns.
• Clear out weeds that have popped up in your garden beds or pathways.
• Clean your garden tools and check them for wear. Sharpen them where needed to get the most out of them this season.

• Aerate the soil: This will allow air, water, and nutrients to reach the grass roots more easily.
• Over seed any bare patches: Use a lawn seed blend that’s suitable for London’s climate. Spread it evenly over any patches that need a little extra love.
• Mow and trim: Once the grass starts growing, mow your lawn regularly. But, don’t cut it too short. Keep it around 2.5-3 inches to protect the grass from drying out.

• Prune dead or damaged branches from trees and shrubs to encourage healthy growth.
• Add a layer of mulch around plants and flower beds to keep moisture and keep the soil temperature stable.
• Fertilize your garden with a balanced, organic fertilizer to give your plants the nutrients they need to thrive.
• If you have perennials, divide and replant them to encourage new growth.

• Clean your patio or deck: Remove moss, algae, and dirt from your paving. Use a pressure washer or scrub with soapy water.
• Fix any cracks in your garden paths or patio areas to prevent further damage.
• Refresh outdoor furniture: Clean and stain wooden furniture, and make sure your outdoor seating areas are ready for summer gatherings.

• Check your irrigation system (if you have one) to make sure it’s working properly before summer arrives.
• If you don’t have an irrigation system, consider installing timers on your hoses. You could also use drip irrigation. These techniques water your plants efficiently without wasting water.
• Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce water loss from evaporation.

• Choose plants that thrive in London’s climate: Select flowers that bloom in the summer. Look for plants well-suited for the city’s weather, like lavender, roses, geraniums, and hydrangeas. If you’re unsure, visit a local garden centre for advice on what will grow well in your area.
• Plant early bloomers like pansies or primroses to add colour early on, and plan your garden layout for later blooms.
• Consider adding a vegetable garden: With the right care, vegetables like tomatoes can thrive in London’s summer climate. Lettuce and peas can also do well.