Whether you’ve just embarked on your gardening journey or you’re a seasoned pro, we’ve got plenty of tricks and techniques to help you get the most from your garden. From expert picks on the best blooms for your space and a month-by-month gardening calendar on plants, plots and garden chores, to advice on hiring designers and step-by-step guides for fiddly skills like propagating by air layering, there are plenty of tips to sink your teeth into. So get outdoors and get your hands dirty!
Ultimate Gardening TIPS & TRICKS
Invasive PLANTS • Look out for plants that do not grow naturally in Britain but can outcompete native species
MORE ADVICE…
Tackling WEEDS • We show you how to get rid of these invaders, and stop them spreading and taking over your flower beds
3 of the most common… TROUBLESOME WEEDS
The simple guide to… A HEALTHIER LAWN • The key to a green and healthy lawn is regular maintenance – and a little bit of know-how!
Seed collection and storage • You can save yourself money by collecting your own seed. We reveal the best ways to retrieve the seed and store it to keep it viable
How to be a GREENER GARDENER • You don’t need to be a revolutionary to take a stand against climate change and plastic use. There are plenty of easy changes we can all make
Plant for wildlife
Choose slug-proof plants
Encourage natural predators
8 ways to reduce your plastic waste
Eco do’s and don’ts to practise now
Know your SOIL TYPE • The key to a beautiful garden and productive veg plot is maintaining a healthy soil. Use this simple guide to find out how to get the most out of yours
THE ACID TEST
GET water WISE! • It’s possible to reduce your water usage while ensuring that your garden looks as good as ever. Here are some easy tips to get you started
3 of the best…WATER BUTTS FOR SMALL GARDENS
Propagation by air layering • Here’s a handy technique for difficult-to-propagate plants
Colour your garden • Autumn might be dark and cold but there are still lots of plants to add vibrant colour
Plant a scented GARDEN • Many fragrant plants can be bought and put in, and will be looking – and smelling – their best all summer
6 of the best… PICKS FOR PERFUME
Root pruning container plants • We explain how to avoid repotting to ever-larger containers
Time for BULBS! • Start planning now for dazzling displays in your garden
6 of the best… SPRING BULBS TO PLANT
3 GREAT COMBOS • Bulbs are great for planting in the border, or in a pot or window box. When you plant in containers, you can really pack them in (as long as they’re not touching) for maximum effect. Once planted, cover with chicken wire to protect from mice and squirrels.
Get free BULBS! • We explain two techniques for how to propagate bulbs at home
Speedy BORDERS • Want to fill your garden beds with colour this summer? Sow a mix of annual seeds for a vibrant look
5 of the best… TALL ANNUALS
Summer SHRUB CUTTINGS • Why pay for expensive shrubs when, with a little time and effort, you can grow your own for free?
How to TAKE SUMMER CUTTINGS FROM YOUR SHRUBS
6 of the best… SHRUBS FOR CUTTING
25 Plants for BUTTERFLIES AND BEES • These beautiful plants will attract bees, butterflies, moths and birds to your garden and provide them with vital food sources
What is COMPANION PLANTING? • It can bring a host of natural benefits to your garden, but what combinations of flowers and vegetables work well together?
What companion plants GROW WELL TOGETHER?
5 easy tips to try • Ready to give companion planting a go in your garden? Marcus Eyles, gardening expert...
