Tasks for May

Continuously picking rhubarb and removing any flowering stems will ensure a longer crop.

Protect vulnerable plants such as young seedlings, or hostas from slugs. We use crushed egg shells as a barrier.

Install shade netting or a whiteout spray over the greenhouse if necessary.

Bedding plants can be planted out towards the end of the month, after the last frosts have passed. Ensure they are gently acclimatised to the change in temperature outside the greenhouse or cold frame.

Trim back spreading alpines such as aubrietia and arabis after flowering.

It looks like we may be in for a dry summer so a water butt or other water collection system connected to the guttering is a good idea.