10 gardening jobs for April

As we enter Spring, Brits are being given ten gardening jobs they should tackle in April. 

The gardening experts at GardeningExpress.co.uk have put together the must-do gardening jobs to help get outside space ready for late Spring and Summer.

The tasks include giving the lawn some care after the chilly months, protecting tender plants from any late frosts and adding mulch to flower beds.

For those growing their own fruit and vegetables, April is the month to plant early tomatoes, plant perennials and scented plants like lavender.

Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk said: “April is a great month for gardening, the outdoors really starts to come to life as the Spring blooms appear, adding colour to the garden.

“It’s also the perfect time to get the garden ready for the Summer especially if you plan to be hosting in your outdoor space – remember to repair your lawn and mulch any borders.

“If you enjoy growing your own vegetables then now is the time to plant tomatoes but keep an eye on the weather where you live and wait for any cold snaps to end as these will do better in warmer conditions.”

10 gardening jobs for April:

1. Repair the lawn

Winter weather can damage the lawn and April is the time to repair it. If you haven’t given the lawn its first cut, now’s the time to do it but keep the mowing height on the high side. For any bare patches, either re-turf or sow lawn seed.

2. Late frost protection

There can be the odd late frost in April, so remember to protect tender plants. This may mean wrapping them up in their winter fleece and moving (potted plants) to sunnier spots in the garden.

3. Keep an eye on the weeds

Weeds make their return during the Spring so keep an eye on these over the coming weeks. Remove the weeds by either digging them up or try creating a homemade weed killer with baking soda.

4. Clear the patio 

You’ll want to clear the patio in case we get the occasional sunny spell throughout April. Use a water pressure to lift tough stains and dirt. Alternatively fill a bucket with some warm water and soap, pour onto the patio and begin scrubbing with a stiff broom. 

5. Plant chives

Try planting chives and other herbs and letting them germinate on a sunny window sill or in the greenhouse. Take care though to sow them sparingly, thinning them out if they become overcrowded.

6. Mulch borders

Mulching soil saves water, improves it, and most importantly, suppresses weeds. April is the best time to apply it, as the unpredictable weather means it traps moisture from rain but stops beds from drying out in the sun.

7. Plant tomatoes

Plant tomatoes in a sunny spot or in the greenhouse. You can start them off from seed and plant them out once they’re around 15cm tall. Do keep an eye on the conditions and introduce them to outside temperatures slowly. They thrive in warmer weather.

8. Bird feeders

Bird feeders normally take about two to four weeks to become inhabited by birds and can make a lovely feature in the garden. Get set up now for lots of summer visits from feathered friends.

9. Plant lavender

The ground is warm enough in April for new lavender plants to flourish. Starting with a healthy plant with a pre-developed root system will help as well as planting one to three feet apart depending on the variety.

10. Plant perennials

Like Lavender, April is the best time to plant perennials due to the ground being moist enough for them to flourish. Planting now should see them bloom in a few months.

For more monthly gardening jobs visit Gardening Express’ care guide here