plant care tips
Spring planting tips
Bedding plants: Do not plant out in beds and borders until the risk of frost has passed. Pots and patio containers should be kept in a bright, sheltered spot and moved under cover if cold nights are forecast. Keep them moist but not waterlogged. When summer comes and the plants are in bloom they will need more frequent watering: daily in very warm weather, but not during the middle of the day or they will scorch. Feed once every 1-2 weeks with a general-purpose plant food and for the best and longest display of colour regularly remove any old flowers.
Shrubs, climbers, roses and perennials: Plant as soon as possible after purchase, but not if the ground is not frozen or waterlogged. Dig a hole large enough to take the roots of the plant and for best results add some compost or well-rotted organic matter. Firm the soil around the plant; the top of the roots should be just below the surface of the soil. Water in well and do not allow the plants to dry out, especially during the first few months while they are getting established. Follow the instructions on the pack or label for the best planting position and any after-care such as pruning.
Indoor plant care
Orchids: Place in a bright spot but avoid harsh sunlight: a north- or west-facing window is ideal. Orchids sold in most supermarkets are chosen to be well-suited to the conditions in a centrally-heated home (reasonably warm and with no big fluctuation in temperature). Lift the orchid out of its decorative container and water it over a sink, allowing any surplus water to drain through the plastic pot before putting it back into its decorative container. In winter they will typically need watering every 7-10 days but in summer every 5-7 days: don’t let them dry out but avoid letting them stand in water. For best results feed from time to time using an orchid plant food.
Bromeliads: Although plants in this group (which includes Guzmanias and Vrieseas) appear exotic and perhaps difficult to look after, they will provide colour for many weeks if not months, with a minimum of care. They like a reasonable level of light but not scorching sunlight and they should not be allowed to dry out. Keep the compost moist but not wet and where the plant has a central rosette of leaves keep the ‘vase’ of the plant topped up with water during summer – this is their natural reservoir of water in the wild. Water less often in winter but still do not let them dry out.