Planning for the new growing season

Time for a little tool maintenance

Growing onions and shallots

Onions and shallots are particularly easy to grow and make the perfect low maintenance crop for beginner gardeners. They won't take up much space either, so you can squeeze a row or two in between other crops or even grow them in wide containers.Shallots are normally planted as sets (immature bulbs). They can be sown from seed, but most gardeners prefer to start from sets as they are quicker to mature, are better in colder regions, less likely to be attacked by some pests and diseases and need less skill to grow than seed.

Add organic matter, such as garden compost before planting and rake in a dressing of general purpose fertiliser. Plant shallot sets 25cm (10in) apart in rows 40cm (16in) apart from mid-November to mid-March. Gently push them into soft, well-worked soil so that the tip is just showing and firm the soil around them. Onions and shallots are remarkably undemanding and require only occasional watering during particularly dry periods. However, you will need to hoe between the rows regularly to keep on top of weeds. Any flowers that appear should be removed immediately to prevent onions from bolting.

Preparing for a new growing season - maintaining planters

Now is an ideal time to begin preparing for the new growing season, Whether it is planning what to sow, cleaning tools, tidying or maintaining planters - there is always something to do at our grow your own scheme.

Free gardenening advice and ideas from Love The Garden

Whether you're new to gardening or an expert, have a balcony or a large garden, Lovethegarden are here to help you...

Love the garden provides simple, clear gardening advice, ideas and inspiration with topics that include; growing your own, treating garden pests and weeds, seeds and cuttings and plant finder. 

For more information please visit their website here.

A thrush pays a visit

Easy to grow vegetable seeds and plants for beginners

Would you like to grow and harvest your very own fresh vegetables but just don"t know where to begin? Growing your own doesn"t need to be difficult and complicated and you don"t always need a large space as many varieties can grow quite happily in pots and planters.

If you would like more details Thompson and Morgan have produced a list of their top 10 easy to grow vegetables on their website here.

How to build a bird nest box

You can help the birds in your garden by creating a nest box. These can make a real difference to the success or failure of birds in your local area, especially when complimented by a regular supply of food. They can also be fun to make.

A detailed step by step guide can be viewed and downloaded on the RSPB website here.

Free guide - how to attract wildlife into your garden?

Providing nature a home is something we can all do to help threatened species. The RSPB have produced an excellent free 28 page colour guide with information that will help you attract wildlife all year round.

Request a free copy of the "Giving birds and wildlife a home in your garden" guide on the RSPB website here.

Free, practical gardening advice from Gardeners World

If you are looking for ideas, top tips and expert advice that could help get the most out of your gardening Gardeners World have produced free "what to do" monthly guides, practical videos and problem solving advice.

For more detailed information please visit their website here.

Free gardening advice from the RHS

Do you need a little inspiration or some gardening advice? The Royal Horticultural Society has produced free month by month gardening guides on their website here.