This Month in your Garden - April

“When well-apparelled April on the heel Of limping Winter treads.”

William Shakespeare: Romeo and Juliet

A sudden burst of warmth brought colour to March and winter does seem to have limped away, though Shakespeare had other meanings in mind when he wrote the line. First came the daffodils, and now the tulips, and April’s garden looks bright. Many years ago we planted a Japanese cherry: Prunis incisa, Kojo-no-mai which is a compact shrub and a delightful early herald of spring. Leave it to grow and it will reach about five feet in height, bringing the first real colour to the garden with white blossom turning to pink by the time April arrives.

The Lawn Care Guide - April

You could be cutting it a bit fine

By now you have probably mown the lawn a couple of times or more, weather permitting, and that will have exposed areas that need some treatment or repair. Incorrect mowing can be a cause of problems so remember the rule: the higher the height of cut, the healthier the grass will be.

Lawn Care: Questions and Answers

Q. We have very sandy soil. How often should I fertilise the lawn?

The Vegetable Plot - April

Get ready – sow!

April always imparts a feeling of productivity in the vegetable garden, with plenty to sow and plant
for you and the family to enjoy over the coming months. If your plot is small or you’re confined to a greenhouse or growing frame then lettuces, radishes, spring onions, tomatoes, bell peppers and carrots will be on your list. You could try dwarf French beans grown in pots in the greenhouse, along with marrow, ridge cucumbers and melons.

The Big Glut Recipe - April

Quick prepared Mediterranean Lamb, marinated for succulent flavour. A House and Garden recipe for April.

• 8 lean lamb chops or cutlets
• ½ cup fresh mint leaves
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves
• 1tbsp fresh rosemary leaves
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2-3tbsp olive oil
• 1 aubergine, sliced
• 2 courgettes, sliced
• 1 red or yellow pepper, cut into large chucks
• 50g (1¾oz) feta cheese, crumbled
• 250g (8oz) cherry tomatoes