Working
February, March & April...
intheGarden Feedanddeadheadannualsandremoveweeds.Fillgaps
with hardy varieties such as marigolds, balsam or Ageratum.
In cool areas sow seed of winter-flowering annuals which
have a long growing season (Primulas, ornamental kale and
anemones) In hot, dry areas delay sowing until weather is
cooler
Pinch back Chrysanthemums to encourage new and bushy
growth. Feed groundcovers, cur beck untidy spring flowering
varieties and lay down a layer of mulch to preserve moisture
Maintain a regular watering program. Adhere to the drought
guidelines and remember plants only take up 3-5% of all the
water put down. Water for a few minutes, wait 5-10 minutes
and water again instead of leaving the sprinklers on. A deep
water should come from rain, but if not once every two weeks
should in most cases be sufficient.
Lift the lawnmower blades to allow the grass to grow longer,
thus protecting the roots from the heat of the sun and from
drying winds. To transform the lawn in time for Christmas
feed with a higher Nitrogen organic fertilizer and water wel
after. If you are going away, do not feed the lawn.
Feed with a granular or enriched organic food high in potash
to encourage the next flush of flowers. Prune lightly towards
the end of January and remove dead weak or spindly wood.
Fungal outbreaks of black spot, mildew and rust can be
expected in hot humid areas, especially where there is a lack
of air circulation. King crickets on lawns. Increase the
phosphate levels with superphosphate or bone meal to
increase the lawns' natural resistance.
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