Pat’s 10 jobs for April 2026

1. Cut back those shrubby Salvias now if you haven’t already done so, both in the ground and in pots. Cut just above a shoot and they will grow away fast, but listen out for forecast of frost.

2. Some bulbs are now over so make sure to deadhead and then leave the foliage to die back naturally, and give them a good feed to build up the bulbs for next year.

3. Perennials are growing away fast so try to protect vulnerable plants from slugs and snails by surrounding with grit, then make sure to get some stakes in place before they get too tall. Twiggy prunings are good for delicate plants.

4. If you haven’t done so sow some half hardy annuals like Cosmos and Nicotiana in pots and trays covering lightly. Keep on a bright windowsill until they germinate.

5. Don’t forget to water plants and bulbs in pots to keep them flowering as it’s been very dry of late and they dry out so quickly. This will help keep the display going.

6. If you haven’t done so top dress your permanently planted pots by removing the top two inches of compost and replacing with fresh. Covering with gravel will help deter weed growth and hold in some moisture too.

7. Prune hardy Fuchsias now back to a healthy bud to prevent them becoming too woody and stimulate new growth otherwise they tend to sit and do nothing.

8. Harvest purple broccoli regularly to prevent it going to flowers (and if you have a glut, share with others!). Mine took ages to get going and is very late, but is wonderful now. But keep netted from pigeons.

9. If you’re growing some peas in the ground or in a pot put in supports for them to climb. A few plants in a pot are great for pea shoots for salads or stir fries.

10. Today I watched mum and dad blackbirds scurrying through the garden for insects and worms to feed their babies so please be mindful of nesting birds and try to keep away from nests.

Happy gardening all!

Pat K