Our Top Tips for Spring Planting

Spring is the perfect time to get your garden growing! Whether you’re planting flowers, vegetables, or fruit, here are some key tips for success:

1. Prepare Your Soil

Clear Weeds & Debris – Remove old plants, weeds, and stones to give new growth the best start.
Improve Soil Structure – Dig in compost, well-rotted manure, or organic matter to enrich the soil.
Check Drainage – If soil is heavy clay, add grit or sand to improve drainage.

2. Choose the Right Plants for the Season

Hardy Vegetables (Sow Early Outdoors) – Carrots, onions, broad beans, potatoes, and peas.
Tender Vegetables (Start Indoors or in Greenhouses) – Tomatoes, peppers, courgettes, and cucumbers.
Spring Flowers – Pansies, primroses, daffodils, tulips, and violas add early color.
Fruit – Plant strawberries, raspberries, apple trees, and pear trees while dormant.

3. Plant at the Right Time

Wait for Frost to Pass
Many tender plants need warmer soil (typically late April-May in the UK).
Check Soil Temperature
Ideally, soil should be at least 7-10°C for seeds to germinate.
Pick a Dry Day
Avoid planting in waterlogged soil.

4. Watering & Mulching

Water Well After Planting. This helps roots settle in.
Mulch Around Plants – Use compost or bark to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Avoid Overwatering – Too much water can rot young roots.

5. Protect Against Pests & Frost

Watch for Slugs & Snails – Use barriers like crushed eggshells or copper tape.
Net Young Plants – Protect from birds, especially peas and strawberries.
Use Cloches or Fleece – Protect delicate plants from unexpected cold snaps.

6. Encourage Pollinators

Plant Pollinator-Friendly Flowers – Lavender, marigolds, and borage attract bees and butterflies.
Mix Flowers with Veggies – Companion planting helps deter pests naturally.

7. Feed for Healthy Growth

Veggies – Use general-purpose organic fertilizer (like fish, blood & bone).
Fruit Trees & Bushes – Apply potash or seaweed feed to boost fruit production.
Flowers – Use a balanced feed to encourage blooms.

Spring is an exciting time with a fresh canvas to create the garden of your dreams. If you have any gardening queries, ask one of our team in-store at the garden centre and we’ll be able to help!