The Gardener's Almanac

For information on what to do in your garden this week!

Week 9 - 26th to 4th

Open the vents during spells of warm weather.

Set a mouse trap to control hungry vermin.

In mild weather, watch out for pests such as greenfly, blackfly, slugs and snails.

Fetch compost that has been standing outside into the greenhouse to warm up.

Feed and pollinate forced Strawberries.

Prune Poinsettia plants to half their size.

Shade Cymbidium.

Week 10 - 5th to 11th

Prepare and start up Begonia & Zantedeschia into growth.

Make an early sowing of Radish.

Repot Hippeastrum Lewisia, Pelargonium & Strelitzia plants as necessary.

Ensure Alpines are well ventilated.

Prune indoor Peaches

Week 11 - 12th to 18th

Start Achimenes (hot water plants) into growth.

Pot up autumn sown Cyclamen. 

Check chitting potatoes.

Week 12 - 19th to 25th

Pot up Chlorophytum, Datura, Hebe, Saintpaulia (African violets) Vriesea.

Commence feeding Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily)

Cut back established Impatiens plants.

Prune / trim Passiflora as necessary.

Week 13 - 26th to 1st

On bright days, temperatures can rise rapidly under glass, so make provision for adequate ventilation.

Ensure seedlings and other delicate plants are protected by temporary shading.

Increase watering frequency on growing plants, feed established plants.

Soft plant growth will encourage insect pests so be vigilant, check under foliage, control any insect infestations promptly with a suitable spray.

Pot on Dahlia cuttings.

Divide Cymbidiums.

Gradually harden off Osteospermum.