April Garden Checklist: Get Your Garden Summer Ready
April is when the garden really starts to wake up. The days are longer, the soil is warming, and suddenly everything seems to grow when you’re not looking. However, it’s also the month when small jobs can quickly pile up if you don’t stay on top of them.
So, rather than feeling overwhelmed, it helps to follow a clear plan. By tackling the right tasks now, you’ll make the rest of the gardening season far easier and far more enjoyable.
What Should You Do in the Garden in April?
In April, you should focus on lawn care, preparing borders, planting, checking paving, and getting your garden ready for increased use in spring and summer.
In addition, it’s the ideal time to plan any larger landscaping projects before the busy season begins.
Start with Lawn Care
First of all, your lawn needs attention. After months of cold and damp weather, it’s likely looking a bit tired.
In April, you should:
- Mow regularly, but keep blades high
- Apply a spring lawn feed
- Repair patchy areas with seed
- Edge borders for a clean finish
However, avoid cutting too short. Grass isn’t keen on a shock any more than we are after winter.
The RHS has written a lawn mowing guide that you might find useful.
Prepare and Tidy Your Borders
Next, turn your attention to borders. April is the perfect time to get them in shape before plants really take off.
You can:
- Remove any remaining dead growth
- Weed thoroughly before it spreads
- Add compost or organic matter
As a result, your plants will have the best possible start to the growing season.
What Can You Plant in April?
By April, planting opportunities really open up.
For example, you can plant:
- Hardy perennials
- Shrubs
- Summer-flowering bulbs such as lilies and gladioli
In addition, garden centres are well stocked, so it’s a good time to refresh tired areas.
For planting advice tailored to UK conditions, the RHS planting guide is useful.
Check Patios, Paths and Paving
After winter, hard surfaces often need a bit of attention.
Look out for:
- Loose slabs
- Slippery algae or moss
- Weed growth between joints
A good clean now makes everything safer and improves the overall look of the garden.
If you’re considering improvements, take a look at our Patio Design ideas blog.
Why Is April a Good Time for Landscaping Projects?
April is one of the best months to start landscaping work.
Because:
- Ground conditions are improving
- Plants are entering the growing season
- There’s time to complete projects before summer
As a result, you avoid the rush and enjoy the results sooner.
If you’re planning a bigger change, ALS Landscaping Lincoln can help bring your ideas to life.
Add Mulch to Save Work Later
Mulching might not be the most exciting job, but it’s one of the most useful.
It helps to:
- Retain moisture
- Suppress weeds
- Improve soil health
In other words, it reduces the amount of work you’ll need to do later in the season.
Get Outdoor Spaces Ready to Use
As the weather improves, your garden becomes more of a living space.
So, take time to:
- Clean outdoor furniture
- Check lighting
- Prepare seating areas
For ideas on making your garden more usable in the evenings, see Outdoor Lighting Tips to Make Your Garden Glow.
Conclusion
April is a turning point in the gardening calendar. By staying on top of key jobs now, you’ll set your garden up for a smooth and enjoyable season ahead.
A bit of effort this month goes a long way. Whether it’s lawn care, planting, or planning a larger project, everything you do now helps your garden look better and work better as the year goes on.
FAQs
Is April too early to start landscaping work?
No. April is one of the best times to begin, as conditions are improving.
Should I feed my lawn in April?
Yes, once growth has started, a spring feed supports healthy development.
What plants are best to plant in April?
Hardy perennials, shrubs, and summer bulbs all do well.