Time to ramp up garden watering

Time to ramp up garden watering

» 26th April 2010 «

After a cold and dry winter, the UK's ground water reserves have been depleted, making it necessary for garden enthusiasts to pay special attention to their plants during spring.

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) explained that growers should not be fooled by April showers, as they will do little to replenish missing moisture.

It said that gardeners should be vigilant in periods of bright, dry or windy weather as any rainfall can quickly drain away or evaporate.

Special attention should be paid to seed beds and new plants as they will require frequent watering to establish themselves.

However, those who have been waiting on their garden to dry up enough to get seeds into the ground can speed things up by a couple of weeks by cultivating the soil.

Another handy hint is to use a plastic or fleece cloche or covering, which should help seeds germinate by providing extra insulation.

Gardeners may be looking forward to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, which takes place in London next month.

Posted by Gary Carter