Don’t waste time tying daffodil leaves into clumps after flowering. It looks more unsightly and may cause damage
Clay pots which have suffered from frost damage can still be used. Lay them on their side and half fill with soil. Creeping plants such as sedums will look natural crowing out of the container
It takes time for newly planted trees and shrubs to send their roots out into search of water. Continue to water new plants during periods of dry weather
Pour boiling water along open seed drills before sowing vegetables. It will kill soil borne pests and weed seeds, getting the seedlings off to a good start
Water plants growing at the base of walls where the soil tends to remain dry even when it is raining
Where there are mature ash, beech and sycamore growing, seedling trees will appear all over the garden. Remove them as soon as you see them a they quickly grow to an unmanageable size
Erect fine mesh or fleece screens around young carrots to keep the carrot fly from laying its eggs close to the crop
When potting and re-potting plants leave 2 inches at the top of the container free of compost for a good application of water
Beds of old heathers may be rejuvenated by spreading a 4 inch deep layer of peat over the surface and washing it down to soil level with a hose. The heathers will re-root up the stems into the peat
Start spraying roses to control black spot and mildew
As potato shoots appear earth up the soil around them
Patches in the lawn can be oversown with grass seed. Loosen the surface of the soil and cover the seed with clear polythene to hasten germination
After scarifying the lawn by rake or machine use the lawn mower, set high, to collect the debris for dumping or composting
Where you need privacy to sit out in the garden in summer grow a line of Jerusalem artichoke. They quickly grow to 7-10 feet high, forming a screen. The tubers make a wonderful soup
