It's tempting to wait until the sun comes out, but the gardeners who get the best results in summer are the ones who start preparing in March. A few weekends of focused effort now will pay dividends when July arrives and your neighbours are wondering how your borders look so good.
Prune roses hard. March is the ideal time for hybrid teas and floribundas. Cut back to an outward-facing bud, about 15-20cm from the base. It feels brutal, but they'll reward you with much better blooms. Here in Warwickshire, our relatively mild springs mean roses respond well to a confident cut.
Divide perennials. Lift and split overcrowded clumps of hostas, heucheras, geraniums and grasses. You'll get free plants and the originals will perform better with more space. This is one of the most satisfying spring jobs — turning one tired clump into three or four fresh plants costs nothing.
Mulch borders. A thick layer (5-8cm) of bark or well-rotted compost suppresses weeds, retains moisture, and feeds the soil. Do it now while the ground is moist and before plants fill out. For Leamington Spa's clay-heavy soils, composted bark is particularly effective at improving drainage over time.
Clean hard surfaces. Paths, patios and decking get slippery with algae over winter. A stiff brush or pressure wash now makes the garden feel instantly fresher and safer underfoot. It's remarkable how much of a difference clean paving makes to the overall feel of a garden.
Plan your pots. Order compost and choose your containers now. A few well-planted pots near the front door or on the patio can transform the feel of your outdoor space. Consider using loam-based compost for larger pots — it holds moisture better during hot spells.
Book your gardener. Spring is our busiest season — if you'd like regular maintenance through summer, now is the time to get on the schedule. Call us on 07904 174399 or use the booking form on our website.