Spring clean your garden

EVERY season brings a different set of chores in the garden. Spring is an exciting time for gardeners as preparations are made for the bounty and beauty of the garden as it awakes from winter hibernation. It can also, however, be a bit overwhelming to know how to prioritise your gardening time at this stage of the year. Here is a helpful list of chores recommended by Husqvarna and Aspen. Hedge trimming: Late winter or spring trimming will rapidly cover the hedge in new growth as warm weather sets in. Lawn care: For established lawns, you should start mowing in the spring, but don't initially cut the grass very short for the first few times. Tools: Spring is a good time to prepare your tools for the oncoming gardening season and to make any necessary repairs or new purchases. You will be happy you have done so when summer sets in. Composting: Tend to your compost if it has been neglected over the winter. If you do not have a compost bin, spring is a great time to start one. Pruning: For early blooming shrubs prune them as soon as blooms have passed. Early spring is also an ideal time to prune your roses. Fertilise and mulch: Fertilise and mulch beds and borders. Spring is also a good time to fertilise fruit trees. If you applied heavy winter mulch for protection from the cold, you will need to clear it away. Deadheading: Remove spent flowers from bulbs, but leave the rest of the plant as is for the time being. Weeding: Pull weeds from your beds and borders before they have a chance to take hold and spread. Plant: Spring is a great time to add new plants to your garden. Be sure, however, that all threat of frost has past. Plant such things as trees, shrubs, hardy annuals, and summer blooming bulbs. Staking: Stake plants that may be prone to wind damage during the unpredictable spring weather. Husqvarna products are available from Connaughton's, Shop Street, Tuam.