Tasks for April
Prune over-wintered, dormant plants, removing dead and crossing branches. S
pray stems and water roots. When new growth appears, some compost can be teased from the roots and the plant re-potted into a smaller pot. This enables new compost to be introduced later.
Plants should now be in full leaf, if not test to see if they are alive by running your thumbnail down the stem. If the wood is green underneath the plant is still alive, if brown or black then the plant is dead.
Check pots and roots to see if they need re-potting into a larger size. Pinch out the growing tips at every third leaf node to make the plant bush out. Keep plants watered, moist but not wet, and give as much light as possible. Place plants outside during the day but bring them back in at night. Continue taking cuttings and make up hanging baskets. You will need at least five plants for a 12” basket and nine for a 16” basket. Try to keep the same varieties in one basket for even growth. Check plants regularly for pests such as Aphids.
