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Digging and forking through the soil allows you to loosen any compaction, remove weeds and debris as well as providing the perfect opportunity to add the organic matter. Plants need good soil conditions if they are to give the best results

that they turn orange-red. They thrive in hot, dry conditions so life in the greenhouse, or a centrally-heated home, suits them just fine. If the temperature stays above 12 celsius, they can breed all year round.Leaves and stems of plants covered in fine webbing

Hosepipe bans and water restrictions are always a challenge for gardeners. But if you get into the habit of saving water in your garden, you'll be able to take the restrictions in your stride. Storing rainwater will mean you can keep your plants

Learn how to prick out seedlings with Monty Don's comprehensive video advice.springMore on growing plants from seedHow to grow sweet peas from seedGrowing exotic plants from seedGrowing dahlias from seedSowing seeds indoors

Learn how to pinch out and pot on sweet peas with Sarah Raven's step-by-step video guide.springMore advice on growing flowersGrowing sweet peas from seedGrowing lupinsHow to create a cut flower patchPlanting out cerinthes

A plant used to provide height and contrast in bedding schemes, usually among shorter varieties or ground cover plants. Plants often used include roses, dwarf trees and pelargoniums.

The practice of reducing the number of plants in a bed or container to provide more room for growth. In fruit production, to reduce the crop of fruitlets early on in order to produce larger fruits for harvest.

Carol Klein demonstrates how to add mulch to beds and borders to enrich the soil and ensure healthy plants.spring and autumnCarolMore ways to improve soilImproving soil with green manure.How to feed plants.Improving your soil.Making a soil sieve.

Sprinkle a handful of sulphate of potash fertiliser around the base of fruit trees and bushesPlant new raspberry canes and blackberry plantsPrepare beds to plant asparagusPlace tunnel cloches or simple sheets of polythene over beds to warm soil

Plant out summer beddingSummer is almost here, but before you rush into the greenhouse to bring out your summer bedding plants, make sure the threat of frost is completely passed. For a successful display, take it slowly and acclimatise plants