As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, spring is the perfect time to get back into the garden.  

The National Trust offers some fantastic tips to help get your garden in shape this season.  

For more expert advice, visit the National Trust website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/discover/gardening-tips/gardening-tips-for-spring  

Resident gardener Rick has kindly shared some helpful tips. 

Rick lives at Evans Williams Court in Newport. Here are his top five tips. 

1. Sow early for a head start – Get broad beans and sweet peas in the ground early to enjoy a strong, healthy crop later in the year.
2. Water wisely – Water plants in the morning or evening to prevent evaporation and ensure deep root growth.
3. Encourage bees – Plant lavender, foxgloves, and alliums to attract pollinators and boost your garden’s ecosystem.
4. Use eggshells for pest control – Crushed eggshells around plants can help deter slugs and snails without harming the environment.
5. Create a compost bin – Turn kitchen scraps and garden waste into rich compost to nourish your plants naturally. 

We’d like to say a huge thank you to Rick for his gardening advice we hope they’re useful! 

Are you a keen gardener? We’d love to see what you’ve been growing! Send your gardening photos to us via email: communications@housing21.org.uk