Peat-Free Compost: Choosing a Blend, Watering and Feeding
Choose peat-free compost for the plant and its purpose. Learn how to check moisture, read feeding instructions and avoid unnecessary extra fertiliser.
Journal
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Garden Jobs in April: What to Do (and What Can Wait)
Quick answer: In April, the lawn wakes up, soil becomes workable in zone 5–6, and the first hardy crops can go straight into the ground — peas, spinach and radishes handle a light frost. Chitted seed potatoes can go in the ground in zone 6 from mid-to-late April. Start watching for slugs, and hold off…
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DIY Drip Irrigation: Build Your Own System Step by Step
Quick answer: A basic DIY drip system uses 13–16 mm (1/2 in) mainline tubing feeding 4–6 mm (1/4 in) drip line fitted with 2–8 liter-per-hour (0.5–2 GPH) emitters, connected to a tap through a filter and a pressure regulator. Materials for a 10 m² (100 sq ft) bed typically run $30–60, and a first system…
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Growing Dahlias: Planting, Care and Overwintering in Cold Climates
Start growing dahlias by waking the tubers indoors four to six weeks before your last frost, then planting out once the soil reaches 15 °C (60 °F). Set the tuber 5–10 cm (2–4 in) deep in full sun, pinch at 20–30 cm (8–12 in) and feed potassium. Lift the tubers after frost and store at…
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How to Grow Courgettes (Zucchini): The Complete Guide
Quick answer: Sow courgette (zucchini) seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before your last frost, or direct-sow outdoors once the soil has warmed to at least 15°C (60°F). Space plants 75–100 cm (30–40 in) apart in rich, well-drained soil in full sun. Water deeply and consistently, and start picking fruit at 15–20 cm (6–8 in) long, about…
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How to Control Spanish Slugs in Your Garden
Quick answer: Hand-pick and dispatch Spanish slugs regularly, especially in the evening, apply nematodes once the soil is above 5°C (41°F), and add copper tape or barriers around your most vulnerable plants. No single method works alone – one adult can lay up to 400 eggs a season. You’ll never make a garden completely slug-free,…
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Autumn Garden Checklist
Quick answer: The autumn priorities are finishing the harvest, moving tender plants indoors before the first frost, mowing the lawn one last time at around 5 cm (2 in) and switching to a potassium-rich autumn feed, planting spring bulbs, and clearing away diseased plant material. Leave healthy stems and seed heads standing for wildlife. Start…