Gardeners are being urged to avoid a common spring planting mistake that could cost them next year's daffodil display. Experts advise deadheading daffodils where needed but leaving the rest of the foliage to die back naturally, as cutting it too early can weaken the bulbs.
This week also marks the time to plant early potatoes, with a recommendation to draw soil over the stems as soon as green shoots appear. Additionally, gardeners should protect roses against disease and consider planting flowering currant (Ribes sanguineum), a reliable shrub that produces pink blossoms in April.
The flowering currant is a low-maintenance, wildlife-friendly option that thrives in most well-drained soils and full sun, though it tolerates some shade. Its drooping pink flowers provide early sustenance for pollinators, and the subsequent purple fruits are eaten by birds. The shrub grows to about three metres and can be pruned after flowering to maintain shape.
Despite its popularity in British gardens, Ribes sanguineum is not native; it originates from western North America. Scottish botanist David Douglas introduced it to the UK in 1825, funded by the Royal Horticultural Society. Modern varieties include 'White Icicle' with white flowers, 'Pulborough Scarlet' with deep red blooms, and the compact 'Koja', which holds an RHS Award of Garden Merit.
