April gardening guide: what to do in your garden this April

April brings the real turning point in the gardening year. Growth is accelerating, borders begin to fill out, and the vegetable garden starts to take shape. But the weather remains unpredictable – sunshine, cold snaps, and even the occasional frost can all arrive within the same week. Preparation is key, particularly for tender plants and young growth.

Protecting new shoots is still important at this stage. Cloches and horticultural fleece remain essential tools if frost is forecast, while on warmer days, vigilance is needed against slugs and snails, which target fresh growth such as delphiniums, hostas and young salad leaves.

Despite the challenges, April is one of the most rewarding months in the garden, as sowing, planting and early colour begin to bring everything to life.

Planting

Buy and grow on bedding plants

If you have a greenhouse or frost-free area, April is a good time to save money by buying small bedding plants and growing them on in sheltered conditions. These smaller plants are usually cheaper and establish well when given time to develop.

Pelargoniums, cosmos, ammi, sweet peas, and nicotiana are all excellent choices, while geraniums, gazanias, and marigolds thrive in sunny positions. For shadier areas, begonias, petunias, and violas provide reliable colour.

Sowing bedding plants from seed can be time-consuming and tricky, and there is now a wide selection of plug plants for both bedding and vegetables available online and in garden centres. These young plants need a frost-free environment with plenty of light – ideally a greenhouse, conservatory, windowsill, or porch.

Watering needs careful management at this stage. Too much water early on can cause young plants to rot, so increase watering gradually as they grow. When plug plants arrive, they are often in small thumb-sized pots and should be potted on immediately, but only one pot size at a time. Moving them into a pot that is too large too soon will hinder growth.

If planting into containers or hanging baskets, it is often best to pot them up and grow them on in a greenhouse before planting outside. This allows the plants to develop a strong root system before exposure to outdoor conditions.

Pinch out growing tips to encourage bushier growth; otherwise, plants such as petunias, fuchsias, and verbenas can become leggy later in the season.

As a general rule, do not plant out bedding plants until the risk of frost has passed, which is usually towards the end of May depending on location. Earlier planting is possible, but plants must be protected with fleece or cloches if frost is forecast, as most bedding plants are not hardy and can be severely damaged or killed by cold weather.

Seed and grow summer annuals

The advantage of growing annuals from seed is the wide variety available, including plants rarely seen in garden centres. Specialist seed catalogues offer an extensive range, making it easy and enjoyable to grow something unusual.

Good summer annuals include Cobaea scandens (Cup and Saucer plant), native to South America, which is a tender climber ideal for summer displays. Amaranthus caudatus (Love lies bleeding) is another striking and exotic-looking annual that is easy to grow from seed.

Both require warmth for germination and should be grown on in frost-free conditions until well established. Delay planting out until plants are strong and well developed.

Other reliable annuals that provide bold colour include nasturtiums, sunflowers, calendula, and cornflowers. These are easy to germinate and more tolerant than tender exotic varieties.

Sow a wildflower patch

A wildflower patch can create a vibrant seasonal display and does not require large amounts of space or time. If a low-maintenance option is preferred, pre-seeded rolls or mats offer a simple and reliable alternative to sowing from seed.

Whether using seed or pre-prepared mats, success depends on weed-free soil and sufficiently warm conditions for germination.

Start planting out potatoes

April is the traditional time for planting salad potatoes and first earlies, with second earlies and maincrop varieties typically planted towards the end of the month. Potatoes can be chitted throughout April before planting.

Maincrop potatoes are generally the largest, taking around 15–20 weeks to reach full maturity. They are ideal for storing and suited to roasting, baking, and mashing.

Planting schedules should always be adjusted according to weather conditions; if a cold spell occurs, delay planting until conditions improve.

Potatoes take up significant space in the vegetable plot but can also be grown successfully in large containers. The emerging foliage (haulm) is vulnerable to frost and should be protected if cold weather is forecast.

It is essential to maintain consistent moisture, particularly as April and May can be among the driest months of the year.

Plant hardier vegetables outside

The weather remains variable in April, so it is important to distinguish between hardy and tender crops. In sheltered gardens, hardier vegetables can be sown or planted outside, including broad beans, beetroot, carrots, Swiss chard, summer cauliflower, kohl rabi, lettuce, leeks, radish, turnips, spring peas, and perpetual spinach.

More tender vegetables should be raised under glass until planting out in mid-May, once the risk of frost has passed. These include courgettes, squash, peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, aubergines, celery, celeriac, French beans, sweetcorn, and globe artichokes.

Seedlings grown indoors can become leggy if not managed correctly. If growing on a windowsill, turn trays regularly to prevent plants leaning towards the light source.

April is also suitable for sowing peas and beans in the greenhouse for later planting out. Successional sowing at regular intervals helps avoid gluts and ensures a continuous harvest.

Broad beans are the hardiest of the bean family and can be planted out first, followed by runner beans and French beans once conditions improve. All beans and peas require a long root run and are best grown in root trainers or alternatives such as toilet roll tubes.

Direct sowing is possible for hardier crops such as carrots, broad beans, onions, garlic, and purple sprouting broccoli, provided soil conditions are suitable and warmed up. Successional sowing every two weeks works well for steady cropping.

If carrot seed fails to germinate, it is often due to cold soil; re-sow when conditions improve.

April is also suitable for planting strawberries, either in beds or containers. Protection will be needed from birds once fruit begins to form. Onions and garlic can also be planted in sunny positions and are both easy, reliable crops that store well.

Start growing herbs

Supermarket herbs can be expensive and short-lived, while home-grown herbs offer greater variety and flavour. April is the ideal time to sow tender herbs such as basil, coriander, dill, Thai basil, and tarragon under glass. These can later be planted out or grown in containers in sunny spots.

Parsley can be slow to germinate, so repeated sowing is often necessary.

Hardy herbs such as chives, thyme, and oregano can be planted outside in pots or borders. Oregano is vigorous, aromatic, and highly attractive to pollinators, but it can self-seed freely, so monitoring is required if spread is not desired.

Most herbs prefer a sunny position, although some will tolerate partial shade.

Care and maintenance

Pruning in April

Early April is suitable for pruning Hydrangea macrophylla, cutting back to a pair of buds and removing around a third of older woody stems each year to encourage new growth. Newly planted hydrangeas should be pruned more lightly until established.

Buddleja davidii can still be pruned or trimmed at this stage to maintain shape and encourage flowering. Lavender, including French lavender and cotton lavender, should be lightly trimmed, along with rosemary and sage, avoiding cuts into woody stems.

Cornus should be pruned by early April at the latest to encourage strong red winter stems. Hard pruning down to near the base is required. Early-flowering heathers can be trimmed once flowering has finished.

Pruning should be avoided during periods of severe or unstable weather.

Feed shrubs

April is an ideal time to feed shrubs as growth begins. General fertilisers such as fish, blood and bone, Growmore, bone meal, or organic chicken manure pellets can be applied around the base of plants and lightly worked into the soil. Water in if rain is not expected.

Some shrubs, including camellias, rhododendrons, and magnolias, require ericaceous feed, while roses benefit from specialist rose fertiliser and preventative disease treatments as growth resumes.

Tie in new plant growth

New growth on plants and climbers will benefit from being tied in. There’re many types of plant ties – from simple strings to bendy ones, green metal ties and, of course, simple raffia ties

Raffia is quite strong and won’t look too intrusive on the plant. It is also cheap and readily available. And it doesn’t look offensive if it blows around or ends up in the compost heap. Raffia is also soft and forgiving as a tie.
Care for Hellebores

Hellebores are fading, and depending on how they look, time to cut down the stems. The new growth can be seen at the plant’s base, and care is needed to ensure this is not snipped instead.

The taller Helleborus argutifolius (also known as Corsican hellebores) is prone to flop all over the place by this stage and is hard to stake. It is best chopped – taking off the flower and stalks down to the ground. Other types of Hellebores can be left alone.

Stake perennials

Many perennials will need support, and early April is the time to stake perennials, especially the early flowering ones, such as Peonies. It can be tricky to place the stakes over or around the plant without damaging the emerging plants if staking is left too late.

Wildlife and pests

Young vegetable growth is particularly vulnerable to pests in April. Carrot fly, for example, requires physical protection such as fine mesh netting to prevent damage. While resistant varieties exist, barriers remain the most reliable method of control.

Slugs and snails are also active in warmer, damp conditions, so regular monitoring is essential across borders and vegetable beds.

Other garden tasks

Spring bulbs such as daffodils and tulips should be deadheaded once flowers fade, but foliage must be left intact to feed the bulbs for next year’s display.

Lawns benefit from their first feeds of the year, typically with a high-nitrogen fertiliser after scarifying and mowing begins in earnest. Grass cutting should start high and be lowered gradually as growth increases.

Seedlings raised earlier in the season will need potting on into slightly larger containers, taking care not to over-pot too early, which can restrict growth.

Plants raised indoors should also be hardened off gradually by placing them outside on mild days before bringing them back under cover at night, preparing them for eventual planting out.

Finally, April is a good time to consider composting systems for garden waste, helping to recycle material and improve soil health naturally.

Quick reference – April gardening at a glance

• Buy and grow on bedding plants in frost-free conditions, potting on gradually.
• Sow summer annuals and wildflowers such as nasturtiums, sunflowers, and cornflowers.
• Plant early potatoes and hardier vegetables, while protecting tender crops under cover.
• Sow herbs including basil, coriander, thyme, and chives.
• Plant strawberries, onions, and garlic in prepared soil.
• Prune shrubs and feed borders as growth begins.
• Tie in new shoots on climbers and support perennials early.
• Protect crops from pests, especially carrot fly and slugs.
• Deadhead spring bulbs but leave foliage to die back naturally.
• Feed and begin mowing lawns as growth increases.
• Pot on seedlings and harden off young plants gradually.
• Start composting systems for garden waste.

May gardening guide: what to do in your garden this May

May is one of the most rewarding months in the garden. Growth is fast and visible, with new shoots appearing daily, perennials coming into flower, late tulips still holding on, and shrubs in full bloom. It is a month where the garden feels alive and changing almost by the day.

However, despite its reputation as a peak spring month, May weather can still be unpredictable. Warm, sunny spells can quickly give way to cold winds and even late frosts in some areas. As a result, planting and general garden work must always be guided by conditions rather than the calendar alone.

Looking for a handy summary? Click here to expand our quick reference guide for essential May gardening tasks at a glance.

Planting

Planting in the garden

May is the month when the garden really comes into its own, but timing is still important. While many hardy plants can now be safely planted outside, more tender varieties should only be moved out once frost risk has passed.

In sheltered parts of Oxfordshire this may be earlier in the month, but in exposed gardens it is safer to wait until late May or even early June. Keeping fleece or cloches to hand is still advisable.

Hardy perennials and evergreens can now be planted freely, along with hardy annuals such as sunflowers, cornflowers, zinnias, nasturtiums, calendula, nigella, and Cerinthe major ‘Purpurascens’. Sweet peas can also be planted out if not already in place.

Half-hardy perennials such as dahlias, diascia, and Verbena bonariensis can be introduced to the garden, along with summer bulbs like gladioli to extend colour through late summer and autumn.

In the vegetable garden, hardier crops such as broad beans, runner beans, peas, onions, garlic, carrots, summer cabbages, Brussels sprouts, celery, celeriac, salad crops, leeks, and strawberries can be planted outside.

More tender vegetables – including French beans, squash, cucumbers, tomatoes, melons, chillies, aubergines, sweet corn, courgettes, and sweet peppers – should either be grown under glass or held back until late May or early June when all risk of frost has passed.

Sowing and greenhouse growing

Even in May, colder spells can still occur, so many tender crops are best sown under glass or delayed until conditions improve. This applies particularly to sweet corn, French beans, squash, cucumbers, tomatoes, sweet peppers, chillies, aubergines, courgettes, and melons.

Water lilies can also be planted into aquatic baskets this month and gradually lowered to their final depth over several weeks to allow them to acclimatise.

Tomato plants can be purchased and grown on in a greenhouse or sunny sheltered spot in the vegetable garden. Early May is ideal for greenhouse growing, while outdoor planting should wait until late in the month when conditions are reliably frost-free.

By the end of May, most gardens across the country are typically frost-free, making it safe to plant out tender bedding plants and non-hardy perennials such as agapanthus, canna lilies, and dahlias.

If dahlias were planted earlier in the season, they may begin emerging around May, although young growth will still need protection if cold weather returns.

Care and maintenance

Pruning

May is the right time to prune early spring-flowering shrubs once they have finished blooming. Pruning helps maintain shape, control size, and encourage healthy new growth. Timing is important – shrubs should always be pruned after flowering rather than strictly by date.

Forsythia, ribes, and other spring-flowering shrubs can be lightly pruned once flowering has ended. Overgrown camellias can also be cut back if necessary, though hard pruning should be done with care.

The Chelsea Chop

May is also the traditional time for the “Chelsea Chop”, used to control the size and flowering time of certain perennials. This technique should only be applied to established, healthy plants and ideally not too early in the month if growth has been slowed by a cool spring.

Late-flowering perennials such as asters, sedum, phlox, and rudbeckia can be cut back by around two-thirds to encourage bushier growth and staggered flowering times later in the season.

Fuchsias also benefit from pinching out the growing tips to encourage a fuller, more floriferous shape.

General maintenance

May is an important month for supporting strong growth. Perennials such as peonies, delphiniums, dahlias, alliums, and other tall or top-heavy plants should be staked early, before they become too large. This allows plants to grow naturally through their supports without damage.

Greenhouses should be prepared for warmer weather by applying shade paint or installing shading to prevent overheating.

Lawns can be seeded or turfed now, as showery conditions provide ideal growing conditions. Mower blades should be lowered gradually as the season progresses, provided conditions are not too dry. Regular hoeing between crops will also help keep weeds under control.

Wildlife and pests

May brings a surge in garden activity from pests as well as plants. Aphids, slugs, snails, cutworms, scale insects, cabbage worms, asparagus beetles, and viburnum beetle larvae are all active at this time of year. Regular monitoring is essential, particularly under leaves where larvae and eggs may be hidden.

A simple wildlife-friendly addition is to create a pile of large stones in a shaded part of the garden to provide shelter for toads and newts during warmer months.

Other garden tasks

As the garden transitions fully into summer, there are several practical tasks to complete. Congested clumps of bulbs can be lifted and divided once their foliage has died back. Garden furniture should be cleaned and prepared for outdoor use, and patios checked for uneven paving ahead of summer entertaining.

Salad leaves, asparagus, and forced rhubarb can be harvested by gently pulling or cutting stems from the crown, ensuring continued productivity where applicable.

Quick reference – May gardening at a glance

• Plant hardy perennials, evergreens, and hardy annuals such as sunflowers, zinnias, and cornflowers.
• Wait until late May to plant out tender bedding plants and half-hardy perennials like dahlias and verbena.
• Plant hardy vegetables including beans, peas, carrots, brassicas, leeks, and strawberries.
• Delay planting tender crops like tomatoes, squash, and sweet corn until frost risk has passed.
• Sow tender vegetables under glass and grow on in a greenhouse or warm space.
• Apply the “Chelsea Chop” to late-flowering perennials to control size and flowering time.
• Prune spring-flowering shrubs once they have finished blooming.
• Stake tall perennials such as peonies, delphiniums, and alliums early.
• Feed lawns, adjust mowing height, and prepare garden furniture for summer.
• Monitor pests including slugs, aphids, viburnum beetle, and cabbage worms.
• Harvest salad crops, asparagus, and rhubarb as they become ready.

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Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is the perfect place to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in the elegant surroundings only a palace and UNESCO World Heritage site could provide, and it makes for a picture-perfect day out with your loved ones. Home to the Dukes of Marlborough, this masterpiece of Baroque architecture is not merely a stately residence but an embodiment of history and cultural richness dating back to the early 18th century.

Afternoon tea is served in the recently refurbished Orangery Restaurant and consists of authentically British, house-made scones, delightful sweet treats, and an array of dainty sandwiches. There’s also a children’s afternoon tea menu with a selection of irresistible sweet treats for your little one. And after taking your Afternoon Tea, why not enjoy a walk or buggy tour around the palace’s formal gardens and Capability Brown landscaped parkland.

Blenheim Palace is in Woodstock – approximately 10 miles (a 25 minutes drive) north of Oxford.

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Waddesdon Manor

Nestled in the heart of the Buckinghamshire countryside, this French château-inspired estate, built by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild in the late 19th century, stands as a testament to craftsmanship and refinement. Surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens and vineyards, Waddesdon Manor captivates with its fairytale charm and opulent interiors – a treasure trove of art, antiques, and history.

Treat yourself to a sumptuous afternoon tea, with a selection of savoury treats and sweet fancies served with a selection of Jeeves & Jericho of Oxford teas in the historic Manor Restaurant set within the Old Manor Kitchen & Servant’s Hall. Afternoon tea at Waddesdon Manor is usually available between April and October. Be sure to make some time to wander through the beautiful Waddesdon grounds beforehand.

Waddesdon Manor is approximately 25 miles (a 1 hour drive) from Central Oxford.

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Hartwell House

Located within the Vale of Aylesbury and on the edge of the Chilterns, an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Hartwell House is an exquisite blend of historical grandeur and timeless elegance set in over 90 acres of gardens and parkland designed by a contemporary of Capability Brown. This Grade I listed country house, with roots dating back to the early 17th century, has witnessed centuries of stories unfold within its stately walls.

One of the three Historic House Hotels of the National Trust, the Jacobean and Georgian house provides all the best in country house hospitality and service you can expect. You can enjoy taking tea in one of the historic rooms – Morning Room, Drawing Room or Library – at Hartwell House, which is available daily and includes a selection of teas, sandwiches, cream cakes and scones.

Hartwell House is approximately 21 miles (a 40 minutes drive) from Oxford.

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Cliveden House

Cliveden House is a privately owned 5-star award-winning hotel perched majestically on a stunning estate overlooking the River Thames in Taplow, near Maidenhead. Built by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham in 1666 as a gift to his mistress, Cliveden House is now a Grade I listed stately home set upon 376 acres of National Trust grounds. The lavish Italianate mansion, surrounded by immaculate gardens and woodlands, exudes an air of sophistication and exclusivity.

Savour the quintessentially English pass-time of taking afternoon tea, served in The Great Hall. The comprehensive Cliveden history inspired afternoon tea features French Chocolate Cake symbolizing the elegant French Dining Room and the artistic Cliveden Four Seasons Fruit Cake showcasing the ceiling mural portraying the Duchess of Sutherland’s four children as the seasons of the year.

Cliveden House is approximately 35 miles (a 1 hour drive) from Oxford.

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Ellenborough Park

Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, between its highest point and the lush green gallops of Cheltenham’s world-famous racecourse, Ellenborough Park is a quintessential English manor that seamlessly marries historic charm with modern luxury. This 15th-century estate in the regal Cheltenham Spa boasts a rich heritage and stunning architecture surrounded by 90 acres of landscaped grounds and rustic countryside.

As a former country residence to the Earls of Ellenborough, the hotel preserves its aristocratic legacy while providing guests with an indulgent experience. Take your pick of teas, homemade infusions of hot ginger or fresh mint, or coffee before tucking into a sumptuous selection of sandwiches, savouries, handmade sweet treats and scones – fresh from the oven. You can even add a glass of fizz, an Ellenborough Park gin and tonic, or a cocktail for an even more decadent affair.

Ellenborough Park is approximately 45 miles (a 1.5 hour drive) from Oxford.

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Weston Manor Hotel

The Weston Manor Hotel, also known as the Manor at Weston-on-the-Green or Weston Manor, is an elegant 12th-century country house set in 12 acres of mature gardens and grounds. Originally a private residence, Weston Manor’s refined ambience speaks to its historical significance. Today, as a boutique hotel, it welcomes guests to experience the allure of its centuries-old architecture and to enjoy a luxurious stay in a picturesque setting.

For afternoon tea, expect warm raisin scones from the bakery, served with strawberry jam and clotted cream, a daily selection of pastries, and sweets, and a selection of finger savouries like roast chicken, truffle mayo, mini baguette, vegetable tomato vegan, mayo malted bloomer Smoked salmon with dill and crème fresh, sunflower loaf, and a selection of teas.

The Weston Manor Hotel is located at Weston-on-the-Green, approximately 11 miles (a 30-minute drive) from Central Oxford.

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Waterperry Gardens

Just a stone’s throw from Oxford, Waterperry is best known as the home to Beatrix Havergal’s School of Horticulture for Ladies between 1932 and 1971. It’s now home to 8 acres of beautifully landscaped ornamental gardens, a quality plant centre and garden shop, gallery and gift barn, museum and teashop. If you love the outdoors and have a passion for gardening, then one of their horticulture courses is perfect for you.

Waterperry Tea includes a selection of homemade cakes, Homemade jam, scones and clotted cream, sandwiches and homemade mini vegetarian quiche tart. A pot of loose-leaf tea or your choice of Barista Coffee. Alternatively, opt for the Celebration Tea – a Waterperry Tea with a glass of Prosecco. Please give at least one day’s notice for the team to organise your Waterperry or Celebration Tea.

Waterperry Gardens is approximately 12 miles (a 30-minute drive) from Central Oxford.

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Will be missed…

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Woburn Abbey

Those in the know claim that the English social custom of taking Afternoon Tea was popularised in the 1840s by Duchess Anna Maria, wife of the 7th Duke of Bedford, who entertained her friends at Woburn Abbey. The Duchess is credited with popularising the custom of afternoon tea in the court of Queen Victoria. The estate’s lavish rooms and grounds, including the Woburn Safari Park, make it a destination that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty.

Dainty sandwiches, scones accompanied by fresh cream and fruity jam, cakes and freshly made pastries are all yours for the taking with this afternoon tea at Woburn Abbey. Afternoon tea can be taken in either The Duchess’ Tea Room or the Bedford room.

Woburn Abbey is approximately 50 miles (a 1.5 hours drive) from Oxford.

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Editorial update: Woburn Abbey and Gardens are currently closed to facilitate a major refurbishment programme.

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Missenden Abbey

Spend an elegant afternoon in the breathtaking 12th Century Missenden Abbey and enjoy a mouth-watering treat of fresh sandwiches, petit fours, freshly baked scones, tea and coffee. There are two types of afternoon teas – one traditional and one served with Prosecco. Both afternoon tea menus are made with homegrown or locally sourced produce with the freshest ingredients.

After you’ve enjoyed your delicious afternoon tea, wander around the picturesque grounds and soak up the beautiful views of the Chiltern Hills or head into the peaceful town of Great Missenden with so many unique shops to visit. Afternoon tea is available from noon on any day of the week, subject to availability, and must be booked at least 24 hours in advance.

Missenden Abbey is approximately 30 miles (a 1 hour drive) from Oxford.

Editorial update: Buckinghamshire New University (BNU), which owns Missenden Abbey at Great Missenden, has taken the “difficult decision” to sell the manor house, citing ongoing financial pressures faced by universities as the reason for the move.