Spring is a time of renewal, with gardens bursting back into life after the colder months. It’s also a crucial period for garden maintenance, ensuring that plants, trees, and shrubs thrive in the coming months. Here are some key tasks to focus on this season:

Prune Your Wisteria

If you have wisteria in your garden, now is the perfect time to prune it. Wisteria needs regular pruning to encourage strong growth and abundant flowering. In early spring, cut back the side shoots to around 2-3 buds from the main stems. This will help promote a spectacular display of cascading blooms later in the season.

Trim Hedges Before Bird Nesting Season

Before birds begin nesting, take the opportunity to give your hedges a good trim. Nesting season typically starts in March, so acting now ensures you can maintain neat, healthy hedges without disturbing wildlife. Whether it’s a formal yew hedge or a natural mixed hedge, a pre-season cut will help keep everything in shape.

Look Out for the First Rhubarb of the Season

Spring also marks the arrival of the first rhubarb, one of the season’s earliest delights. If you grow rhubarb, check for those first tender stems, perfect for harvesting. A simple yet delicious way to enjoy rhubarb is to poach it gently and serve it with ice cream—an ideal springtime treat.

Plant Summer-Flowering Bulbs

For a garden that bursts into colour in the summer months, now is the time to plant summer-flowering bulbs. Gladioli, dahlias, and lilies all thrive when planted in spring, giving them enough time to establish strong roots before their big bloom. Choose a sunny, well-drained spot for best results, and look forward to a stunning display in the warmer months ahead.

Need Help Maintaining Your Garden?

Spring is a busy season in the garden, and if you need a helping hand with your large garden maintenance, our team at Gardens of England is here to assist. Whether it’s pruning, planting, or general upkeep, we’re happy to discuss your needs. Get in touch with us today to ensure your garden looks its best this season.

Method

To poach the Rhubarb, pour the wine, sugar and vanilla pod, and about 150ml of water in a saucepan to a boil. Pop in the Rhubarb and turn the heat down and poach for 3 minutes.

Turn off the heat and let it cool in the liquid.

Serving suggestion

I love to serve poach Rhubarb with a good quality vanilla ice cream. You can even drizzle a bit of the cooking liquid over it as well.

The liquid can also be reduced slightly by heating it again. You can use the syrup as a glaze over cakes or drink it diluted with some sparkling water.