The Garden in Spring
Weather in March dictates what work can be started in the garden.
In Ireland night frost can damage early seedlings and so raised beds should not be planted with salads etc until later in the month.
Greenhouses will benefit from frost protection ( i.e. covers and heating) to help with early seeding of summer bedding flowers.) Lawns and grassy areas can be topped and will probably need a treatment of sulphate of iron and general fertilizer (7-6-17) to encourage growth later in the year and keep moss at bay.
Shrubs, climbing frames and hedges can be cut back before growth and nest building begins and the vegetable patch will benefit from a dig to expose the clay to early morning frost.
Pots and tubs are flowering since early Feb with early spring flowers: Violas, Primulas, daffodils and tulips. They will be OK until mid May when the summer planting is due. Garden furniture can also be given a facelift.
A verse often quoted by my grandparents comes to mind at this time of year:
The kiss of the sun for pardon
The song of the birds for mirth
One’s nearer Gods heart in a garden
Than anywhere else on earth.
Wishing you happy gardening for the coming year.
