March

In The Fruit Garden This March

Feed blueberry plants with ericaceous plant fertiliser.

Mulch rhubarb with a thick layer of well-rotted manure to keep it healthy and reduce moisture loss through the soil. Take care not to cover the crown, as this is where the growth happens.

Cut autumn-fruiting raspberry canes to the ground to stimulate new canes, which will fruit in the autumn. Cut the tips of summer-fruiting raspberry canes that have grown beyond the top of their supports, cut just above a bud.

Protect the blossoms of apricots, peaches and nectarines from frost with a screen or horticultural fleece.

Mulch fruit trees with well-rotted manure or garden compost. Take care not to mound mulch up around tree trunks.

Top Tip:

Cover strawberries with a cloche to encourage earlier fruiting.

This Month's Key Tips
  • Remove weeds, thatch and moss from your lawn and improve drainage.
  • Plant summer flowering bulbs.
  • Protect new spring shoots from slugs.
  • Hoe and mulch weeds to keep them under control early.
  • Top dress cobtainers with fresh compost.