Hooray! Summer is finally on its way. Here are a few tips on where and how to start organising your garden, greenhouse, tools and shed ready for the new warmer season.
1. Tools and Equipment
The first step is making sure your tools are still in good working order and any equipment you use are still useable after being stored for a few months. Examine all your tools and before you decide to replace them and have a go at restoring or mending them yourself. Sharpen the blades on your metal tools and treat the wooden handles if need be, you would also benefit from oiling any hinges.
Take this opportunity to plan ahead, perhaps make a list of your jobs or projects, so you know what tools you will need and make any purchases if necessary.
2. Spring Clean
There’s nothing more satisfying than being organised and prepared, allowing you to start with a clean slate. Focusing on your garden area, remove any debris, dead plants, old plant pots or weeds that may have taken over your garden. Your main concern at this point is live weeds, as they will continue to germinate and take over your garden, so be sure to clear the borders and flower beds. Use mulch to keep weeds at bay.
You will also want to get remove any pests at this point, that may pose a threat to your plants, whilst preparing your garden, keep an eye out for them and make sure you take appropriate action before you begin planting.
If you have a greenhouse, make sure this is too cleaned out and organised ready for new seedlings. Give them a thorough inspection and take note of any damages that need sorting. Give them a good clean, inside and out, using a suitable disinfectant to remove any algae, mould or dirt. Removing moss and dirt is also removing the opportunity for disease to propagate. Wash any pots and seed trays that need a good clean and you can even start sowing seeds that require a longer growing season.
Additionally, give your fences, gates and trellis a good inspection and fix any damages caused by wind, rain or snow.
3. Install a water butt
Freshwater is a precious resource and too often there are shortages. Here in the UK, we have a lot of rainy days and by not utilizing it we are making a huge mistake! A water butt is simply connected to your drain pipes and collects rainwater as it rains, allowing you to store and use it for many things, including watering your garden.
Particularly during the summer months, our gardens need watering more than ever, but why waste good, fresh water watering the outside of your house. By installing a water butt, you are not just reducing your carbon footprint and saving money, but you are also doing the best for your plants and garden. As rainwater contains nitrates and organic matter, it acts as a fertilizer for your garden and plants, leaving them nourished. Houseplants can also benefit from rainwater, as rainwater is soft and free from chemicals found in treated tap water.
4. Get organised
Create a plan and organise your tasks and jobs into days, weeks and months. Make a list and perhaps start thinking about ordering your spring/summer seeds and bulbs, as some need to be planted in early Spring!
Make this year the year of change, have a browse through magazines, catalogues and websites for some inspiration. Perhaps you can have a go at planting something you’ve never planted before or had a go at redesigning your garden, purchasing new furniture or even add a new feature to your garden. Make the most of these rainy days and make lists and draw new designs!
It can be difficult to know where to start with your garden after the winter months, but the earlier you start the longer you can enjoy the beautiful wildlife and plants that Spring and Summer have to offer.