Welcome Back to Our Ongoing Series on Gardening Tips and Advice.
We’re delighted to have you join us as we explore the joys of gardening in Spring through to early Summer, here in the UK.
As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, this is a wonderful time to nurture your garden and prepare for a bountiful growing season ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener, or just starting out, our expert advice will help you make the most of your outdoor space while ensuring that gardening remains enjoyable and accessible for everyone, especially our friends aged 60 and above. Let’s dig in!
Meet Your Gardening Experts
James, a lifelong gardener with over 30 years of experience – "I’ve always believed that gardening is not just a hobby, but a way to connect with nature and improve our well-being. It is as the Princess of Wales recently stated, 'Spending time in the natural world provides a sense of balance and belonging'. I’m also passionate about helping older adults enjoy gardening without the strain."
Margaret, with a background in horticulture and a love for teaching others – "I’ve spent the past 20 years working with community gardens. I focus on promoting accessible gardening techniques that encourage everyone to get involved, regardless of their physical capabilities."
What to Plant
As we move into mid May, the risk of frost diminishes, making it an ideal time to start planting a variety of flowers, vegetables and herbs. Here are our recommendations…
Hardy Annuals and Perennials
Now is the time to sow hardy annuals directly into the soil. Consider planting…
Calendula
These cheerful flowers are beautiful and attract beneficial insects to your garden.
Nasturtiums
Edible and vibrant, nasturtiums add a splash of colour and can be used in salads.
Sweet Peas
These fragrant flowers can be sown directly into the ground, or in pots for climbing.
For perennials, consider planting…
Lavender
A hardy plant that thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. Lavender is an excellent addition for both its beauty and fragrance.
Echinacea (Coneflower)
This drought-resistant perennial is perfect for attracting pollinators, such as bees.
Vegetables to Sow
Early to mid May is perfect for sowing a range of vegetables. Here are some that are well-suited for this time…
Carrots
Directly sow seeds in well-prepared soil. Choose a variety suited for your space – shorter varieties are great for containers.
Beetroot
These can be sown directly into the ground and are easy to grow.
Lettuce
Quick to germinate, lettuce can be sown in rows, or in containers for easy access.
Radishes
Fast-growing and perfect for beginners, radishes can be sown in small batches every couple of weeks for a continuous harvest throughout the Summer – ideal for salads.
Pruning and Maintenance
May is also an excellent time for pruning certain plants to encourage healthy growth. Here’s what to consider…
Spring-flowering Shrubs
Prune them back to promote new growth after they bloom, such as forsythia and flowering currant.
Roses
If you haven’t pruned your roses yet, now is the time. Remove dead, or weak stems and shape the plant to encourage healthy blooms.
Perennial Maintenance
Cut Back Ornamental Grasses
If you haven’t done so already, cut back last year’s growth to encourage fresh shoots.
Divide Perennials
If you have overgrown perennials, now is a great time to divide them and replant, ensuring they have plenty of space to thrive.
Gardening Tools for Comfort and Accessibility
Gardening is an enjoyable activity for most of us and using the right gardening tools can make all the difference. Here are some implements that can help make gardening easier and more accessible for us all, including older adults…
Easi-Grip Tools
The Easi-Grip range of gardening tools is designed for comfort and ease of use. With ergonomic handles, these tools reduce strain on the hands and wrists, making them ideal for prolonged use. There are trowels, weeders and pruners in the range.
Home and Garden Leaf Grabber
Raking leaves and petals can be tedious, but the Home and Garden Leaf Grabber can make it much easier. This tool allows you to gather leaves and other material without bending over, reducing the risk of back strain.
Folding Garden Kneeler and Stool
A folding garden kneeler and stool is a fantastic addition to any garden. It provides a comfortable place to kneel, or sit, while working, and its lightweight design makes it easy to move around the garden. This tool helps minimize knee and back strain, allowing for longer, more enjoyable gardening sessions.
Tips for Gardening Comfortably
To ensure that gardening remains a pleasurable experience, here are some tips for working comfortably in your garden…
Take Breaks
Don’t rush! Take regular breaks to rest and enjoy your surroundings.
Stay Hydrated
Keep a bottle of water nearby to stay hydrated, especially on warmer days.
Use Raised Beds
If bending is challenging, consider using raised garden beds, which can be accessed while standing, or sitting.
Plan Your Layout
Organise your garden, so frequently used tools and plants are within easy reach to minimise unnecessary movement.
Enjoying Your Garden
As you work in your garden during Spring through early Summer, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of nature and the joy of nurturing plants. Gardening is not just about the end result; it’s about the process and connection to the earth.
Whether you’re planting, pruning, or simply enjoying the fresh air, remember that every small effort contributes to a thriving garden. Why not share your progress with friends or family, and consider inviting them to join you in your gardening journey.
Gardening offers a wonderful opportunity to get your hands dirty and watch your garden come to life. With our expert tips and advice, you can enjoy the process while ensuring that gardening remains accessible and enjoyable. Remember to use the right tools, take care of your body and, most importantly, have fun!
Stay tuned for our next instalment in this gardening series, where we’ll explore more tips for the upcoming months.
Happy gardening from James and Margaret!