This month the ground will be starting to warm up and the plant growth will be more rapid. At the beginning of the month prepare the ground for the warmer loving plants which can be planted at the end of the month (tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers etc.).

Don't forget the application of fertilisers, compost and lime 2 to 3 weeks before planting young plants or sowing seeds, especially in gardens that have been in use for a number of years.

Citrus and other fruit trees that are well established will also benefit from fertiliser as they start to grow.

Cuttings of chrysanthemums, dahlias and begonias may now be taken from the new growth of parent plants, this helps to keep the cultivars healthy and fresh. Many other perennial plants can be propagated from cuttings or division also.

This an important time for Spring bulbs. As they finish flowering remove old flowers and keep the plants well watered to help build up the bulb to produce flowers next year

Fruit trees will be flowering so take care timing sprays to avoid harming bees. Do ensure the right protection is given to the trees from pests and diseases. There are a number of ready to use sprays available that make it easy to treat plants as soon as any pest or disease is noticed (there are organic choices also) saving the need to mix yourself.

Flowering trees and shrubs should be pruned as soon as they have finished flowering, ensuring new growth produced will flower next year.

Lawns will need some attention as they will be growing rapidly. Now is the time to feed the grass and treat for moss. I treated my lawn with iron sulphate at the rate of 300 grams to 10 litres of water. I applied by watering can and the results were excellent, be careful not to get any of the liquid on the concrete as this will stain it!

Last year I used a tomato soil mix from Southhort for my glass house tomatoes and was very pleased with the results so will do the same this year, which reminds me of the saying, if you are pleased with the results that you had last year don’t change what you are doing!! 

Spring is a very busy time in the garden as there is a lot to do but do it right and the rewards will be seen later.

Good Gardening, Michael Coulter

Remember: questions can be posted on HortTalk or you can email Michael directly at coultchrys@xtra.co.nz