What to do in the garden this month

We asked our top plantsman, Andrew Pitman for his gardening tips for the month and this is what he said…

“To help prevent weed growth and reduce water loss during warm weather, spread mulch on the ground before plants get too large.

“Use a thick layer of compost, bark or similar material over borders and between trees, shrubs, roses and fruit. Newly emerging perennials should grow up through it. Take care not to cover dwarf bulbs now in flower.

Recycling is big so make sure you re-use as many of your pots and seed trays as you can. They need to be washed out and stored away ready for use. Add some general household disinfectant, then rinse in clean water.

“Even if you don’t get time to do the digging, try and cover areas to be dug with a layer of compost or manure. This will be worked in by worms over time, or it can be lightly forked in to the surface in spring to prepare the soil for planting.

“During windier weather, it’s always a good idea to check tree ties to ensure they aren’t cutting into the bark. Replace any that are worn or damaged. It is particularly important to check your tree stakes and ties for damage after heavy wind and storms.”

You could also:

• Buy seed potatoes now and place in trays with their sprouting ends uppermost. Keep in a cool but light spot for the shoots to develop, ready for planting later in March.
• Rhubarb - cover the crowns with either buckets or forcing jars to help promote early pickings. Lift and divide congested clumps.
• Asparagus - order crowns for planting later and start preparing the site to ensure it has been dug thoroughly and is free from weeds.
• Bare-rooted fruit trees, bushes and soft fruits can all be planted now. Where possible, choose disease-resistant varieties.
• Prune large apple and pear trees now to remove congested branches.