Jobs in the garden this month – May

Prune early flowering shrubs

Remove any dead or damaged wood, then cut back recently flowered branches to above a bud, just below where the previous flowers end. Remove at the base, any straggly growth, or any which is spoiling the overall shape of the plant. This will encourage new growth which should produce a brilliant show of flowers next spring.

Sow and plant veg plants

We have a good selection of veg seeds, but if you can’t be bothered growing your veg from seed we also stock a great variety of young veg plants to take the hassle out of producing your own crops.

Plant out tender veg such as courgettes, runner beans and sweetcorn towards the end of the month when the risk of frost has passed. If in doubt, cover young plants with horticultural fleece.

Brussel sprouts and leeks need to be planted now if you are to enjoy them on Christmas Day!

Tie in climbing roses

Try to get the stems as near horizontal as possible to encourage flower buds to break all over the framework of the plant, rather than just at the top.

Lift and divide Daffodils

Over-crowded bulbs tend to flower poorly, so now is the ideal time to separate clumps of Daffs. Split the bulbs and replant 5-8 cm (2-3”) apart, at a depth 3 times the length of the bulb.

Clean out water butts

Over winter, water butts can become contaminated with leaves which will rot as the weather warms up, creating water which could potentially harbour diseases harmful to your plants.

Completely empty and scrub away any detritus, to create a clean, hygienic environment to store water.

Prepare for summer bedding

Empty and clean pots and planters. The spent compost can be spread on the garden but first check for the small white c-shaped grubs of the vine weevil. If found, either squash them or put them on the bird table!

Pests and diseases

Pests such as aphids, lily beetles, slugs, and snails will on the rampage now. Watch for evidence, and deal with the pest appropriately, either removing by hand or using something from our range of pesticides.

Keep on top of weeds by hoeing annuals such as bitter cress, chickweed etc. on a dry day. Perennials, dandelions, buttercups, nettles etc. need to be dug up and disposed of. (Not on the compost heap where they could regrow).