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Spread a compost mulch around border plants to suppress weedsPut pond pumps and fountains back into pools, thoroughly cleaning filters firstLay turf or sow new lawns from seedClean out bird baths and top up with fresh waterCheck tree ties

. These will usually be delivered during April and May, ready to be used in summer displaysSort out and clean up canes and plant supports, ready to be used in early springUse a pressure washer to clean paths, steps, paving and patios

Clean and sharpen knives and secateurs, and spray metal tools with oilPut up nesting boxes for birds in suitable trees or on buildingsMove shrubs growing in the wrong placeService petrol lawn mowersSearch through seed, bulb and nursery catalogues

Move plants from greenhouse to cold frame, to acclimatise to cooler temperatures before planting outDig out new ponds and water featuresClean and sharpen secateurs and garden knivesBuy summer-flowering bulbs now, while the best choice of varieties

unwanted suckers growing around the base of trees and shrubsLift large waterlilies from ponds, divide and replant themClean pond pumps and filters, and make sure they are working properlyHand weed alpine and rock gardens

Add lawn cuttings to the compost heap, or use them to mulch around fruit trees Mow and edge your lawnTie stems of tall perennials to supportsFeed houseplants every week with a liquid fertiliserClean out filters of pond pumps to get rid of any debris

branches breaking under its weightSpread a mulch of compost over borders and around trees, shrubs and rosesClean algae and moss from paths and stepsSprinkle a top dressing of gritty compost over lawns

Pick dead flower-heads off rhododendrons and azaleasHoe borders to keep down weeds, or treat with weedkillerScoop floating weed out of garden ponds with a netFeed lawns with a liquid or granular lawn fertiliserTrim hedges like privet and Lonicera

particularly cold window sills at nightCollect fallen leaves from around roses to reduce the risk of diseases carrying over to next seasonOrder bare-root fruit trees to plant later this yearClean out water butts and check downpipe fittings

Retrieve plant supports from flower beds, clean and store away