Biennial

Biennial plants have a two-year life cycle. During the first year, the biennial plant typically produces a rosette of leaves close to the ground and stores energy in its roots or stems. In the second year, the plant develops a flowering stalk, produces flowers, sets seeds, and then dies. After the seeds are dispersed, the life cycle begins again with new seedlings sprouting the following year. Foxgloves and hollyhocks are biennials.

Deadheading

Plants with multiple blooms need to be deadheaded, which means you remove the dead flower from the plant. This redirects its energy from seed production towards producing new flowers, prolonging the blooming period. This encourages helps to keep the plant looking tidy and prevents it from appearing unkempt. Good examples of this are geraniums hydrangeas and roses.

Ericaceous

A type of plant that prefers acidic soil. Ericaceous plants typically thrive in soils with a pH level below 7. They often struggle in alkaline soils, where the pH is higher. Gardeners who grow ericaceous plants often need to amend their soil to make it more acidic or grow these plants in containers filled with ericaceous compost. Examples include rhododendrons, azaleas, heather and blueberries.

Hardening off

Acclimatising plants that have been grown indoors, inside a greenhouse or under protection to outside weather conditions. This helps to prevent transplant shock and prepares the young plants for growth outdoors. By gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions, you help the plants develop stronger stems, thicker foliage, and better resistance to environmental stress ultimately improving their chances of survival and success in the garden.

Mulching

Mulch is material that covers the soil, inhibits the growth of weeds, and boosts nutrients whilst holding in moisture and warmth. It is a low-maintenance and effective way to prevent weed growth, nourish soil, and fertilise plants. It can also reduce watering frequency and protect plants from frost. Biodegradable mulches like leaf mould, garden compost, and bark chippings work well, as do non-biodegradable options like slate, pebbles, seashells, and gravel

Perennial

A perennial plant lives for more than two years and comes back every growing season. Unlike annual plants, perennials continue to grow and bloom year after year, often going dormant during the winter months and regrowing in the spring. Some common examples of perennial plants include lavender, roses, irises, sedum, phlox and hostas.

Rootbound

Used in container gardening or for houseplants, rootbound is when potted plants are confined to a pot for too long and their roots have nowhere to go. Signs include the plant noticeably outgrowing its pot with roots coming out the bottom and yellowing leaves. The best time to repot houseplants is typically in the spring, as this is when plants are entering their active growing season. We recommend from March to May as this provides time for the plants to recover from the stress of being reported, develop new roots and adjust to their new home.

Thinning

This simply means removing seedlings when you have planted too many seeds in an area or pot. Each plant needs room and nutrients from the soil to grow healthy and strong, so overcrowding will result in seedlings competing for these. Thinning is typically done after seeds have germinated or seedlings have emerged and developed to achieve proper spacing between plants.

Variegated

This refers to plants with leaves that have more than one colour. The leaves are often mixtures of green, yellow, white, and cream. Examples include hostas, euphorbia and pothos, calathea, coleus and acers.

Finding the right Tools for the Job

Don’t be discouraged if you lack a large garden, you can start planting just about anywhere with the right equipment. For a larger planter you can browse our available range of VegTrugs, and for smaller gardens you can browse all sizes of propagators here to get your seeds started off right.

If you predict a frosty cold spell in the near future, either plant close to a wall for natural shelter or be prepared to shield your crops with a horticultural fleece. When it comes to deciding where to plant, most veg love being in full sun but can still thrive in dappled shade.

Time to Plant!

Now you’ve got your planters and chosen your favourite seeds, it’s time to set the stage. If you choose to plant in a pre-established border, be sure to remove any weeds and top up with fresh compost. Make sure to flatten your soil and remove any rogue stones until you have a fine compost layer on top. When planting in either a border or raised planter, if you’re starting off with seeds it’s best to clear a little area with your hand and thinly sow your seeds to prevent over-crowding as this can reduce your overall yield.

Not all seeds can be sown outside. If your seeds are starting their journey in a small propagator, make sure to fill each cell with plenty of compost and gently place seeds in each cell. Cover these up with a tad more compost and don’t forget to label them! Try not to overcrowd each cell: if all the roots are competing with each other you won’t have a very abundant yield later on.

What Now?

Be sure to keep a keen eye on your growing vegetables, and depending on the weather you may only need to water them a few times a week depending on what you planted. A great way to quickly check if they need a top up is to place your finger in the soil next to your crops, being sure not to disturb the roots. If the soil is still moist they’re good to go. If not give them a quick top up! Try not to overwater your gardens as you may stunt your vegetables growth and see a few drooped leaves.

 

Our very own Grow Your Own Guide can give you some guidance on when to harvest, but you can typically find this information on the back of your seed packets too! Now it’s time to sit back, relax and wait. You should see steady growth over the coming weeks, and soon you can taste the glory of home-grown flavour.

Thyme

Thyme is a versatile herb that can tolerate a variety of conditions. It's great for adding flavour to a wide range of dishes and grows well in pots or the ground. Thyme pairs well with meats, and roasted vegetables such as potatoes and is a common ingredient in soups and stew.

Mint

The staple for a lot of drinks or lamb dishes.  A refreshingly tasting herb that gives a wonderful lift to food and drink especially in the summer, especially cocktails and mocktails.  It can be added to salads, such as fruit salads, and leafy and potato salads to add a refreshing flavour, or as a marinade or garnish for meats, such as lamb. Mint can be a bully in a garden so it's best planted in a container where it will thrive.

Sage

Sage can be used in poultry dishes, especially with chicken and turkey. It also has a great savoury flavour to pasta dishes, particularly those featuring butter or cream sauces, like ravioli or gnocchi.

Parsley

Both flat-leaf and curly parsley are popular herbs in the UK. They can be grown in pots or the ground and are relatively easy to care for. Parsley can be used in salads to add a fresh and vibrant flavour and pairs well with seafood dishes.

Chives

Chives are a member of the onion family and grow well in the UK. They produce attractive purple flowers and are great for adding a mild onion flavour to dishes. Chives pair exceptionally well with potatoes and as a garnish to soups.

Coriander

Coriander is a staple in many cuisines and can be grown in the UK with some care. It prefers cooler temperatures and may bolt in hot weather, so it's best to grow it in the spring or autumn. It is a key ingredient in fresh salsas and a common garnish for Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes with its citrus flavour.

Oregano

Oregano is a hardy herb that can be grown in the UK. It prefers a sunny spot and well-drained soil.  It is commonly used in Mediterranean, Italian, and Mexican dishes, like pizza, Greek salad, moussaka, chilli con carne, enchiladas, and tacos.

Bay

Bay leaves are commonly used in cooking and can be grown in the UK climate. They prefer a sheltered spot and can be grown in pots or on the ground. The leaves are often used to infuse flavour into various dishes during cooking, such as soups, stews, broths and rice to provide a fragrant aroma and subtle taste.

Relaxation outdoors

Rattan and wooden furniture have soared in popularity, following the neutral and natural interiors trend, blurring the lines between home décor and outdoor style.   The traditional Fern Living Dalby 4-Seat set turns the garden into an outdoor room and extension of the home, with a pick of parasol and cushions turning al-fresco dining into relaxation in seconds.    Enjoy the durability of nature with our FSC acacia wood Dalby furniture which is crafted to last for generations, with the traditional red/brown finish and unique grain pattern enhancing the elegance of any garden. Rest assured that every component of our furniture is made to last, with fittings zinc coated for rust resistance and long life. Assembling your new furniture is a breeze with our easy-to-follow instructions, and when not in use, simply fold and store it away until the next time the sun shines.

As the weather heats up, why not go for ultimate relaxation outdoors with our Fern Living Ripley 4-seat set with its luxurious and lush cushioned chairs offering both your comfort and pleasure whilst relaxing in the sun? Experience the beauty of outdoor dining with Ripley which embodies strength and durability. With a rust-free lifespan, the lightweight yet sturdy aluminium frame is coated with a wood-like finish, eliminating the need for regular upkeep. Our furniture is designed to provide ultimate comfort with seat and back cushions, while the weather-resistant and easy-to-clean table tops feature a wood-like appearance that enhances the overall aesthetic.

 

For smaller and more intimate get-togethers on a patio or a balcony, the Fern Living Brimham 2-Seater will create a cosy corner, where you can entertain your guest or spend some quality time with a loved one in the open air.  Brimham is a beautiful piece of furniture with a sleek, geometric design and a muted colour palette. It is made of steel, glass and handwoven rattan, which makes it lightweight, strong and weatherproof. This compact Bistro set is perfect for enjoying relaxed drinks and snacks in smaller spaces.

Screening and hedging

Beyond its aesthetic charm, our braided willow can also serve a practical purpose by providing effective screening and hedging. Want to hide an ugly part of your garden, or separate your outdoor spaces into zones, our willow trees are the answer. While offering privacy, its woven stem adds an extra layer of sophistication, transforming what were hidden neglected areas into artistic statements.

Structural elegance

The braided stems of our willow trees bring a sense of structural elegance to any garden. These majestic trees stand out as focal points, contributing to year-round visual interest, even when they have lost their leaves. Braided willow is versatile, with different heights available, allowing for dynamic visual compositions within the garden. Whether towering over the patio or pruned into more compact forms in a container on a balcony, the height variability of braided willow adds depth and dimension to garden designs.

Great for wildlife

In addition to their aesthetic and functional benefits, braided willow trees contribute to environmental conservation by supporting biodiversity. They provide essential habitat and food sources for various wildlife species, further enriching the ecosystem within your garden.

How to plant

Caring for braided salix is straightforward, requiring regular maintenance and ample watering, particularly during sunny, breezy summers. To encourage healthy growth, trim back the top growth in early spring, shaping the crown 2 or 3 times throughout the summer while removing any occasional leaves on the bare stems.

When planting, select a sunny or partially shaded spot for your braided willow. If planting in a container, ensure there is sufficient drainage and fill with soil-based compost such as John Innes No. 3. Whether in pots or directly in the ground, water the newly planted willow thoroughly and maintain daily watering for the first four weeks to keep the soil consistently moist.

Don’t miss out on British Garden Centres’ special 20% discount off braided salix from the 15^th to the 29^th April at your local store!

Lily Beetles

Lily beetles are a common and significant threat to plants and are easily identifiable by their bright red colour. They can cause severe damage to the foliage, buds, and flowers of lily plants.

There are several natural solutions to combat lily beetles. One is to use a soapy water spray to remove the beetles from the plants. This solution is particularly effective when used on young plants, as it helps to prevent the beetles from laying their eggs on the foliage.

Another is a garlic solution made by steeping crushed garlic in water for several hours and then spraying the resulting solution onto the lily plants. The strong odour of garlic is believed to repel the beetles, preventing them from feeding on the foliage.

Mealybugs

Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that can cause significant damage to indoor plants. They feed on the sap of the plants, and if left untreated, can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and leaf drop. If you notice any signs of infestation like white mould or webbing, isolate the infected plant to prevent the mealybugs from spreading to other plants. Prune the affected parts with a cotton bud dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the bugs from the plant's nooks and crannies. Natural predators like ladybirds or lacewings will feast on the mealybugs, reducing their population and preventing further infestations.

Vine Weevil

Vine weevils are a type of beetle that can cause significant damage to plants, particularly to their foliage and roots. These pests are known for feeding on the leaves of plants and burrowing into the soil to lay their eggs.

To prevent damage, one method is manual removal, which involves physically removing the beetles by hand and disposing of them. Another approach is to encourage natural predators such as birds, toads, and ground beetles. Creating water barriers around plants can also be effective, as vine weevils are unable to swim and will avoid waterlogged areas.

Eggshell planters

Did you know you can plant in eggshells too? Make sure you save your eggshells from your Easter baking and use them as seed planters for your garden. Fill each half with potting soil and plant your herb, vegetable or flower seeds inside. Once the seedlings have sprouted, you can transplant them directly into the garden including the shell.

Paint your own Easter Bunny stones

Unleash our little Picasso and jump into a world of creative fun this Easter by painting your own stones or pebbles with some seasonal themes! Collect some flat and smooth stones from your garden or beach and paint some cute Easter bunnies or some even colourful, decorative eggs. We recommend using acrylic paint to add details like faces, ears, or egg designs. Once dry, place them around the garden for a magical Easter touch.

Make your own Easter wreath

Create a festive Easter wreath using materials such as colourful plastic eggs, faux flowers and foliage, pastel-coloured ribbons, sugared almonds, small felt chicks and a foam or grapevine wreath base. Let your creativity flow as you arrange and glue the decorations onto the wreath base. Or why not make one in the shape of the Easter bunny face using white pompoms on a wire base with cheeky ears? Hang it on your garden gate or front door to welcome friends and family who are visiting over the Easter period to get in the mood.

Bunny and Chick plant pots

Got some old terracotta or plastic pots that need a season facelift? Why not turn them into Easter characters for your plants and seeds and give some colour to the garden? Children will love painting them to look like Easter bunnies or chicks using acrylic paint. Add some googly eyes, felt ears, and pom-pom noses for extra detail. Once dry, fill the pots with soil and plant small flowers or herbs. They will look super cute placed in groups in the garden or on your windowsill for an Easter display and your kids will be pleased with their handiwork!

Easter egg hunt

What is an easter garden without an egg hunt? Your garden should offer plenty of hiding spots for eggs under shrubbery, behind planting containers or nestled in flower borders. Get the children in the mood for the hunt by decorating your garden with colourful bunting, banners, or themed decorations like Easter bunnies or chicks as we explained above.

DIY Easter Fairy garden

Design a magical Easter-themed fairy garden using a shallow container or planter. Arrange miniature figurines of bunnies, chicks, and Easter eggs among small plants, moss, and decorative stones. Add a tiny fairy house and pathway for extra charm and include bright pops of colour by painting and including Easter characters. Display in a central position to be enjoyed by all the family and enter your own enchanting miniature Easter world!

Erysimum

Erysimum, commonly known as the wallflower, is a popular spring plant due to its vibrant and colourful blooms. This hardy perennial thrives in well-drained soil and full sunlight, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add a burst of colour to flower beds or containers. With a variety of shades available, ranging from deep purples to bright yellows, Erysimum will complement any garden design. Its long blooming period and attractive fragrance make it a standout choice for the spring season and beyond.

Dianthus

Dianthus, a popular spring plant, boasts vibrant blooms that add colour and fragrance to garden beds and containers. With its minimal maintenance requirements and ability to thrive in various soil conditions, dianthus is an ideal choice for instant impact in a spring garden. Its compact size makes it ideal for edging pathways or filling in gaps in flower beds. Whether planted in full sun or partial shade, they will provide the perfect spring backdrop with neat mounds of silver-green foliage and are popular with pollinators.

Primrose

Primroses are vibrantly coloured plants that are synonymous with spring. These early bloomers thrive in cool temperatures and partial shade, making them ideal for early spring planting. With a variety of colours ranging from pale pastels to rich jewel tones, primroses can brighten up any garden bed or container and are ideal for hanging baskets or window troughs if short of space. These versatile plants are relatively low maintenance, requiring only regular watering and well-draining soil to flourish. Planting primroses in clusters can create a stunning visual impact, bringing spring vibes to your outdoor area.

Lavender

Lavender is renowned for its heavily scented, deep purple flowers that are loved by pollinators. This hardy perennial thrives in various climates, tolerating both extreme cold and heat, making it ideal for any spring garden. With its fuss-free and fast-growing nature, lavender offers an easy-to-care-for option for gardeners, producing gorgeous displays that attract bees. Its resilience and stunning blooms make it perfect for any spring garden or container.