Page 48 - ESPC_Mar25

GARDENING
Dobbies unveils
spring gardening checklist Warmer sunny days can encourage early good source of early spring colour as they can

growth, but occasional spring frosts mean
plant protection is still an important factor. withstand cooler temperatures.
Whether it’s with frost fleece or a good layer Nigel says that spring is the best time to start
of mulch, Nigel notes that you should keep plants off to ensure a blooming summer
an eye on temperatures and make sure your display. You can propagate plants by sowing
plants are protected. If you choose to mulch seeds in trays in greenhouses or on windowsills,
your flower beds, Nigel recommends doing and Dobbies has a vast array of seed packs to
so with a good quality organic compost – not choose from.
only will this protect plants from cold spells by
giving them a nutrient boost but it’ll help tidy Nigel notes that summer flowering bulbs, like
up your garden’s appearance too. dahlias and begonias, can be started off in pots
indoors and planted out in late spring after all
Planting risk of frost has passed.
One of the most satisfying spring gardening
jobs is planting, however, Nigel says that Container planting
before you even think about this, your focus If you’re limited on space, container planting
should be on soil preparation. Soil preparation is a great way to inject colour and interest into
is imperative to healthy plant growth, so Nigel your garden, patio or balcony. Nigel suggests
suggests adding organic matter and fertiliser refreshing pots, hanging baskets and window
to improve the soil before planting. Removing boxes with primroses, pansies and violas.
any weeds and debris will also set your beds in Senetti planted now will last throughout
good stead for spring. spring into early summer, as they’re known
for their robust nature. Early spring is also the
When it comes to what you can plant for time to plant any potted bulbs you didn’t get
Dobbies’ Plant Buyer, Nigel Lawton, reveals the steps to take this March instant colour in spring, Nigel recommends a chance to plant out in autumn.
and beyond to get your outdoor space looking its best. visiting your local Dobbies to explore the wide
range of bedding plants available. Pansies,
primroses and violas are springtime favourites
s we approach spring, the busiest the winter months, this should be an easy job. that can be planted alongside potted bulbs for
season in a gardener’s calendar, Start by clearing away any remaining winter a vibrant spring display.
A Dobbies Garden Centres has unveiled debris and clean paths of moss. This can be
what we should be doing in our gardens done with a pressure washer – a useful tool to Now is a great time to plan and plant a
at this time of year. Whether you’re just have in your shed – and while you’re washing cottage garden with a wide range of young
beginning your gardening journey, or are a paths, you can also clean your patio to get it herbaceous plants available. Other
horticulture fan, Dobbies’ Plant Buyer, Nigel looking fresh for the new season.
Lawton, reveals the steps to take this March spring flowering shrub lines available
now include camellias, forsythias, and
and beyond to get your outdoor space Spring is the ideal time to get your beds and
looking its best. magnolias. Alpine plants are also a
borders in shape for the warmer months by
removing weeds and pruning plants. Nigel
Clean and prepare suggests cutting back any winter flowering
Nigel says that spring cleaning your garden plants which have started to fade and prune
is an important first step when it comes to summer flowering shrubs like buddleia, For more spring gardening advice, and
preparing for the year ahead, and if you have lavatera and hardy fuschias to allow room for to find your nearest Dobbies store, visit
been maintaining your garden throughout new growth. dobbies.com.

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