Count this
Have you taken part in the Great British Bee Count yet? Download a free smartphone app, record the pollinators in your own garden or allotment and contribute to this survey organised by Buglife and Friends of the Earth.
Water this
If you planted bareroot trees, roses or soft fruit bushes over winter, don’t forget to keep them well watered. Until their roots establish, they will need a ready supply of moisture to thrive; even a few dry days will set them back. Mulching can help, whether that’s chipped bark or lawn clippings – place a chunky layer around the plant, but don’t let it swamp the stems.
Plant this
Most coneflowers have a problem with droopy petals, but not Echinacea ‘Primadonna’: its large, pink, daisy-like flowers radiate out, not down, plus it’s compact enough for modern gardens, with a height and spread of 85cm x 45cm. Order six plugs for £6.99, or 12 for £11.98 (prices include free UK mainland p&p). To order, call 0330 333 6856, quoting ref GU334, or go to our Readers’ offers page. Dispatched May/June.
