Potted lilies will be growing quickly now and as their flowers start developing they will need some support. Push several canes into the compost around the edge of the pot, linking them up with string to provide stability. If border lilies are not supported by neighbouring plants, use stakes around these tooSprinkle rose fertiliser around roots to encourage strong growth and a good flower display. Water in if rain does not fall within a couple of weeks or hoe into the soil, taking care not to harm the roots
Once irises have finished flowering in June, congested clumps can be lifted, divided and replanted. Reduce the leaf area by half and replant so that the rhizomes rest at the soil surface
Dig up large clumps of primulas and divide into individual plants, each with leaves and roots. Replant into newly prepared soil
Plant out tender bedding plants once all danger of frost has passed. If they have been grown in the greenhouse, harden off in a cold frame for a few days before planting out
Remember to cut the old flower stems off lupins and early perennials before they start to set seed. This will tidy the appearance of the plant but as an added bonus may even encourage a second flush of flowers
Many young plants, including fuchsias, benefit from having their shoot tips pinched out to encourage branching. If left, shoots can grow very long while pinching out creates bushier plants with more stems that ultimately carry more blooms
Most composts only contain sufficient nutrients to feed plants fro about four to six weeks after potting up. Potted plants will then benefit from a weekly liquid feed to promote strong growth and generous flowering and fruiting.
Tap the blooms on greenhouse tomatoes to improve pollination
Many spring-flowering shrubs can be pruned as soon as their flowers have started to fade
Position summer hanging baskets and containers outside
Mow lawns more frequently to keep them in shape – removing ‘little and often’ is key to a good quality sward. Lower the cutting height if the grass is growing very strongly
