Jobs to do in the garden this week
THE weather is frustrating, because there are so many jobs that need doing.
However, when ground conditions are bad, it is advisable to keep off the soil areas.
Constant walking on soil that has been covered in frost or has become waterlogged causes more harm than good.
When ground conditions do allow, have a general look around the garden.
Hotspots can be tackled for a general tidy-up.
For those with privet hedges, there will be an abundance of leaves at the base, because recent frosts have resulted in leaf drop. These can be raked up, and added to the compost heap.
Herbaceous plants that were left after flowering last year can now be cut back.
Cut down all the dead stems, and follow this by lightly cultivating around the base of each plant with a garden fork or hand trowel. If available, apply a light layer of farmyard manure over the soil surface.
This will get the plants off to a flying start in the spring. Alternatively, apply a general fertiliser.
Large shrubs and trees should be checked for signs of damage. Any branches that have been snapped by the wind will need cutting back to a live bud.
Cuts need to be neat and tidy, so make sure the secateurs or loppers are sharp enough.
Trees that were planted last year will need the tie slackening off to accommodate new growth. If left, the tie will stunt future growth.
Any vegetation that has built up at the base of the trunk needs removing.
Final checks in the garden should include fencing. Damaged panels can be repaired or replaced. For those that are loose, re-stake and nail securely.
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Weather for South Shields
Friday 25 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 8 C to 19 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 7 C to 17 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: North east
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