APRIL IN THE GARDEN
- phoebesperrin
- Apr 12, 2023
- 9 min read
13TH APRIL 2023
NERD WORD | Vernation
What I've been sowing for clients kitchen gardens recently
& 5 things you need to do for you garden this April
The pattern of folding and rolling of leaves in a bud.*
Different plants use different folding patterns to pack their leaves into the bud. Beech leaves (Fagus spp.) for example, are folded together like fans. If you look closely at the opening leaf buds this week, you’ll see many different vernation patterns unfolding.
But why bother in this weather?
Here are five things you may need for your garden this April:
Prepare Seeds or seedlings for spring and summer vegetables and flowers
Fertiliser you soil to nourish your plants
Unlike me, wear garden gloves to protect your hands while you work!
Use pruning shears to trim back any dead or overgrown branches from all this blustery weather
If you haven't already - Mulch the soil to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Why is the blustery weather of April good?
Benefits of April's Blustery WeatherApril's gusty weather can be advantageous in many ways. It clears out the remnants of winter and replaces it with fresh spring air. The wind can also help to dry out muddy areas and promote new plant growth. Moreover, the invigorating and refreshing breeze makes it pleasant to be outside.
In some regions, April's gusty weather is also known for its potential to kick off wildfire season. However, the benefits of the wind are numerous, particularly in agricultural and horticultural areas. Here are some additional ways in which April's gusty weather can be advantageous:
The wind can help to pollinate plants, particularly those that rely on wind rather than insects for pollination.
Strangely, the gusts of wind can also be a great natural exfoliator, removing dead skin cells and leaving your skin feeling smooth and refreshed.
Despite the potential for a bad hair day, April's gusty weather has many perks. So why not embrace the wind and enjoy all that it has to offer?
So, what to do in the garden this April?
In April, you can start planting cool-season vegetables like lettuce, spinach, and peas. It's also a good time to fertilise the soil, and prepare it for summer planting. Additionally, you can start mowing the lawn and pulling weeds to keep your garden looking neat and tidy.
As the weather begins to warm up and the days get longer, it's time to start thinking about your garden. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Choose a sunny spot for your cool-season vegetables, as they need at least 6 hours of sun per day to thrive.
When fertilising your soil, consider using organic materials like compost or aged manure, rather than chemical fertilisers, which can harm beneficial soil organisms.
If you don't have a sunny spot available, consider using containers that can be moved around your outdoor space to follow the sun. Additionally, it's important to ensure that the soil is well-draining and rich in nutrients. You can amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve its quality. Some cool-season vegetables that do well in sunny spots include lettuce, spinach, kale, and broccoli. By providing your vegetables with the right amount of sunlight and healthy soil, you'll be on your way to a successful harvest.
If you're planning on planting summer vegetables like tomatoes or peppers, now is a good time to prepare the soil by adding organic matter and testing the pH.
Here are a few additional tips to help you prepare your soil for planting summer vegetables:
Consider adding compost or aged manure to your soil. This can help improve soil structure, increase nutrient availability, and promote healthy root growth.
If you're unsure about the pH of your soil, you can purchase a soil test kit or send a sample to a testing lab. This will help you determine if you need to adjust the pH of your soil.
Don't forget to till your soil before planting. This will help break up any clumps or compacted areas, making it easier for your plants to establish roots.
If you're planting in containers, be sure to choose a high-quality potting mix that's specifically designed for vegetables. This will help ensure that your plants have access to the nutrients they need to thrive throughout the growing season.
By taking the time to properly prepare your soil, you'll be setting your summer vegetables up for success and ensuring a bountiful harvest.
As for your lawn, be sure to adjust your mower blade to the correct height for the type of grass you have, and avoid cutting anymore than one-third of the blade at a time. And when it comes to weeding, try to pull them out by the root rather than just cutting them off at ground level. This will help prevent them from coming back.
Maintaining a healthy lawn requires more than just regular mowing and weeding. Here are some additional tips that can help you achieve a lush and green lawn:
Water your lawn deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Aim for about an inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation.
Fertilise your lawn with a slow-release fertiliser in the cooler months, spring and fall, when grass is actively growing. Avoid fertilising in the heat of summer or during drought conditions.
Aerate your lawn once a year to reduce soil compaction and improve water and nutrient absorption. You can rent an aerator from a garden centre or hire a professional to do it for you.
Over seed your lawn in the fall to thicken up thin areas and fill in bare spots. Choose a grass seed blend that is appropriate for your climate and soil type.
Consider using natural weed control methods, such as mulching your lawn with grass clippings or applying corn gluten meal. These methods can help suppress weed growth without relying on chemical herbicides.
A list of herbaceous flowers that I have been sowing to compliment the kitchen garden crop
Sowing in April
Here are some herbaceous flowers that you can sow in April:
Cosmos
Cosmos flowers, which are native to Mexico and the southern United States. These daisy-like flowers come in various coloUrs, including pink, white, red, and orange, and are popular for their long blooming season and easy cultivation in gardens.
What crop does cosmos grow well with?
Cosmos grows well with a variety of crops, including beans, peas, and corn. These plants are all nitrogen fixers, which means they pull nitrogen from the air and convert it into a form that is usable by plants. This process can help improve the soil quality and boost the growth of all the plants in the garden.
My favourite varieties
top three varieties of cosmos
The top three varieties of cosmos are:
- Cosmos bipinnatus (Mexican aster)
- Cosmos sulphureus (yellow cosmos)
- Cosmos atrosanguineus (chocolate cosmos)
Zinnias
Zinnias are a type of flower that are native to Mexico and Central America. They are known for their bright, daisy-like blooms that come in a range of colours, from bold oranges and yellows to soft pinks and purples.
Zinnias are often grown as annuals, meaning they complete their life cycle in one growing season.
They are easy to grow from seed and can be planted directly into the soil in the spring.
Zinnias are a popular choice for cut flower arrangements due to their long vase life.
Some species of zinnias, such as Zinnia acerosa, are drought tolerant and can thrive in hot, dry conditions.
Zinnias are also a favourite of pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, making them a great addition to any garden.
What crop does zinnias grow well with?
Zinnias are a great companion to most crops, as they attract beneficial insects that are helpful in pollinating and safeguarding these plants. There are countless varieties of zinnias, but some popular ones include the
- California Giant
- Queen Red Lime
- The Envy
Marigolds
Marigolds are beautiful and vibrant flowers that are commonly found in gardens and landscapes all over the world. Here are some interesting facts about marigolds that you might find intriguing:
There are many different varieties of marigolds, with colours ranging from yellow and orange to red and mahogany.
Marigolds are known for their strong, pungent odour, which is said to repel insects and pests.
Marigolds have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, and are said to have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
In some cultures, marigolds are used in religious ceremonies and festivals, and are considered a symbol of love and devotion.
Overall, marigolds are a versatile and beautiful flower that have many uses and benefits. Whether you are a gardener, a herbalist, or simply a lover of flowers, marigolds are a great addition to any collection. What crop does marigolds grow well with? Marigolds are known to grow well with crops like tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, peppers, and strawberries. They are believed to repel harmful insects and attract beneficial ones, which can benefit these crops. top three varieties of marigolds A Closer Look at Marigolds: Marigolds come in many different types, but three of the most popular are
- French
- African
- Signet Varieties
Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are beautiful flowers that come in a range of colours, from bright oranges and yellows to more subdued reds and pinks. These flowers are popular for their edible leaves and petals, which can add a peppery and slightly sweet flavour to salads and other dishes. In addition to their culinary uses, nasturtiums are also commonly grown as ornamental plants, as they can add a cheerful and colourful touch to gardens and window boxes.
If you're interested in growing nasturtiums yourself, they're relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a range of environments, from sunny gardens to shady balconies. Some tips for growing healthy nasturtiums include planting them in well-draining soil, watering them regularly, and providing them with adequate sunlight and nutrients. Whether you're looking to add some colour to your garden or spice up your next meal, nasturtiums are a versatile and vibrant choice.
What crop does nasturiums grow well with? Nasturtiums are known to grow well with crops like tomatoes, cucumbers, and radishes. They can also be planted alongside herbs like rosemary, sage, and mint to help deter pests. top three types of nasturiums to buy When it comes to nasturtiums, there are numerous varieties available, but the ones that tend to stand out are;
- Alaska
- Jewel Mix
- Empress of India.
Calendula
Calendula is a beautiful and versatile plant that has been used for centuries for its medicinal and culinary properties. Here are some interesting facts about calendula:
Calendula is also known as pot marigold and is native to the Mediterranean region.
The bright orange or yellow flowers of calendula are used to make ointments, lotions, and teas for various skin conditions such as eczema and sunburn.
Calendula petals can also be used to add colour and flavour to soups, salads, and even cakes.
In addition to its skin-healing properties, calendula is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-viral effects.
Calendula oil is a popular ingredient in natural beauty products due to its nourishing and moisturising properties.
Overall, calendula is a fascinating plant with a rich history and many practical uses. What crop does calendula grow well with? Calendula grows well with a variety of crops including tomatoes, beans, and lettuce. It can also help repel harmful insects and attract beneficial ones. what are the top three varieties of calendula The top three varieties of calendula are:
- Calendula officinalis (Pot Marigold) - Calendula arvensis (Field Marigold) - Calendula eckerleinii (Eckerlein's Marigold).
Bachelor's Buttons | Cornflowers
Bachelor's Buttons, also known as cornflowers, are annual flowering plants that are native to Europe but have now been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America. Here are some interesting facts about these beautiful flowers:
The name "Bachelor's Buttons" comes from the practice of young men in medieval times wearing the flowers as a buttonhole to indicate their romantic status. If the flower wilted quickly, it was believed that the man's love was not returned.
The flowers come in shades of blue, pink, red, purple, and white, and have a distinctive fringed edge.
Bachelor's Buttons are easy to grow and are often used in gardens as ornamental plants or as cut flowers for floral arrangements.
The flowers are also used in traditional herbal medicine to treat ailments such as eye infections, digestive problems, and respiratory issues.
In some cultures, Bachelor's Buttons are considered to be symbols of good luck or prosperity, and are used in rituals or ceremonies for these purposes.
Whether you're a gardener, a lover of flowers, or simply interested in the history and folklore of plants, Bachelor's Buttons are a fascinating and beautiful addition to any collection. What crop does cornflower grow well with? Cornflowers grow well with crops such as beans, cucumbers, and tomatoes. They can also be planted alongside herbs like chamomile and thyme. What are the top three varieties of cornflowers The top three varieties of cornflowers are:
- Blue Boy - Black Ball - Classic Romantic
Sweet Alyssum
Sweet Alyssum is a beautiful and fragrant plant that is a popular choice for gardeners. Here are some interesting facts about this lovely plant:
Sweet Alyssum is a member of the Brassicaceae family, which includes other popular garden plants such as cabbage, broccoli, and mustard.
The plant is native to the Mediterranean region, but is now grown in gardens all over the world.
Sweet Alyssum produces small, delicate flowers that come in shades of white, pink, and purple.
The flowers have a sweet, honey-like scent that makes them a popular choice for use in perfumes and other fragrances.
Sweet Alyssum is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow in a variety of soil types and climates.
In addition to its beauty and fragrance, Sweet Alyssum is also known for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden.
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, Sweet Alyssum is a great choice for adding beauty and fragrance to your outdoor space. What crop does sweet alyssum grow well with? Sweet alyssum is known to grow well with crops such as tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants. It can also attract beneficial insects to the garden. Best three varieties of sweet alyssum Some popular sweet alyssum varieties include
- Easter Bonnet Deep Rose
- Snow Crystals
- Carpet of Snow
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