Helen's monthly choice - May
Helen Derrin, Crocus plant doctor
Last updated April 2025
By the end of the month everything should be growing at a rate of knots! Seasonal bedding can be planted out as soon as the risk of frost has past (the exact timing of this will depend on what area of the country you live in), pots, window boxes and hanging baskets should get the once-over (and a facelift if necessary), and everything should be fed if you have not done so already. Also, as the temperatures creep up, it's really important that you make sure everything is kept well watered, especially anything growing in a container, as these are always the first to dry out. Indulge yourself with a few plants to fill any remaining gaps in the border, and replace things that have not bounced back from the winter. Try to keep on top of the weeds, and see that you have plenty of supports to hand for taller perennials as they start to shoot skywards. Once all that’s taken care of, it’s time to dust off the barbeque and dig out the Pimms!
